Professional Doctorate vs. PhD: Key Differences

Professional doctorates and PhDs are both doctorate degrees and the highest type of degrees you can earn in a field. These degrees are available in a variety of areas of study.

However, the two types of degrees are not interchangeable and are designed for different types of career goals. Below, we'll break down what you need to know about the differences between professional doctorates and PhDs.

What Are Doctoral Degrees?

Doctoral degrees are a type of advanced degree. They're typically terminal degrees, meaning they're the highest type of degree you can get in a field. Earning a doctorate requires many years of study. You'll need at least a bachelor's degree and in many cases a master's degree before you can pursue your doctorate.

Types of Doctoral Degrees

There are two primary types of doctoral degrees: research degrees and professional doctorate degrees. Research degrees are generally focused on academia, while professional degrees are for those who want to practice at a high level in a specific field.

In many fields, both research degrees and professional degrees are available. Below, we've broken down the most common type of research degree, a PhD, as well as professional degrees that also have PhD counterparts.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the most common type of doctoral degree. These degrees focus on training students to research and analyze information in a specific field.

You can earn a PhD degree in nearly any field of study. Some of the most popular fields for PhDs are:

• life sciences
• engineering
• psychology and social sciences
• physical and earth sciences

It can take several years to earn a PhD. You'll spend the first two or three years of your program completing coursework related to your major. You'll then focus the rest of your program on your dissertation.

A dissertation is a large research paper that PhD students must complete. It focuses on a particular subject within your field of study, and it's meant to not only show what you know but also provide new knowledge to the field. You'll need to defend your dissertation to graduate.

Doctor Of Education (EdD)

Doctor of Education (EdD) degrees are professional degrees, but they are also often heavily research-focused. However, PhDs in education exist as well.

A PhD in education is primarily for those who want to pursue research or teach in academia, while an EdD is for those who want leadership or administrative roles in education. Common concentrations for EdD students include:

• education administration
• education policy
• curriculum and instruction
• global education

EdD students typically must have a master's degree to enter the program and may be required to take the GRE. A dissertation is required for graduation.

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree is research-focused just like a PhD in business. However, PhDs tend to be more research-intensive.

DBAs are primarily for those who want to become business executives. Specializations may include:

• global business
• human resources management
• industrial-organizational psychology
• information technology
• organizational leadership

These programs usually require a master's degree, though not always an MBA. The GRE or GMAT may be required, and a dissertation is usually required to complete the program.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degrees are designed for those who want to go into clinical practice. These kinds of degrees are required to practice as a licensed psychologist.

While it is possible to go into practice with a PhD, PhDs are generally more for those who want to conduct psychological research.

Some PsD programs do not require master's degrees or test scores. Many also require research projects or clinical practice instead of dissertations. PsyD programs are, on average, shorter than PhD programs, averaging four to six years.

Doctor of Science (DSc)

Doctor of Science (DSc) degrees are research degrees, like PhDs. They are less common, however, than PhDs, and are only offered in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.

In the United States, a DSc and PhD are considered to have equal standing. However, in some countries, especially in Europe, a DSc is more advanced than a PhD.

Doctorate vs. PhD: What's the Difference?

The primary difference between a professional doctorate and a PhD is the focus. PhDs are focused on academic research and adding new knowledge to the field, while professional doctorates are focused on practical application.

Is a PhD Higher Than a Doctorate?

In most cases, a PhD has equal standing to a professional doctorate. However, some fields will not allow you to become licensed with a PhD and require a professional doctorate.

For example, you can earn a PhD in medical science or healthcare. But you can only earn your medical license and become a medical doctor with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

Choosing the Right Path: PhD or Professional Doctorate?

When trying to choose between a PhD and a professional doctorate, the number one question you need to ask yourself is: what do you want to do with your doctorate?

Do you want to hone your research skills for a path in research and academia? If so, a PhD is the best choice for your doctoral studies.

If your career goals are more geared toward working in a professional setting, a professional doctorate program is likely best for you.

Can You Be Called a Doctor With a Doctorate?

While most people think of a medical doctor when they hear the term 'doctor,' anyone with a doctoral degree, whether that be a PhD or a professional doctorate, can be referred to by the title 'doctor.'

How To Choose & Apply for a Doctoral Program

There are several things to consider when choosing a doctoral program. These include:

• program availability
• specializations available
• program requirements
• program format (on campus or online)
• what past PhD or doctoral candidates have to say about the program

The application process for doctoral degrees can vary from program to program. The best way to learn how to apply is to visit the program's website to find the program requirements and the steps for application and to request info.