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PhD vs. Doctorate: Everything You Need to Know
By
Karla Ibarra
Karla Ibarra is a content writer at Scholarships 360. She has worked as an English teacher and writing tutor. As a writing tutor, she has experience editing scholarships and college application essays. Karla graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Communication and a minor in English.
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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.
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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.
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Deciding whether or not a postgraduate education is something you want to pursue? It might be overwhelming to think about postgraduate education when you aren’t even sure what the difference between a PhD and a doctorate is. Learning about each will help you decide whether a PhD or doctorate degree is best for you. Let’s get started!
What is a PhD?
“Doctor of Philosophy” is commonly referred to as a “PhD.” A PhD is a kind of doctoral degree that focuses on theoretical research. “Theoretical” has to do with assumptions that people have on a topic. The research explores ideas related to a particular subject rather than the practical application to real life. Earning a PhD is a popular option for those that want to pursue teaching at a university level.
What is a doctorate?
Doctoral degrees emphasize research and practical application. Students pursuing doctoral degrees often conduct observation based research in their chosen fields. Earning a doctorate degree often leads to research professional careers. An example of
Which degree is “higher” academically?
Both PhDs and doctorates are known as “terminal” degrees, meaning they are the highest degrees you can earn. A PhD falls into the category of doctorate, so one is not “higher” than the other.
See also: Everything you need to know about a doctorate degree
Basic similarities and differences
As a PhD falls into the doctorate category, they share similar attributes. However, they are not completely the same. Here are some basic similarities and differences to help avoid confusing them.
Similarities
- The highest level of a graduate degree
- Requires rigorous research
- Students gain a deeper understanding of the area of study
- Able to teach as a professor at a university
- Must complete dissertations
- Leads to higher paying jobs
Differences
- Doctorates require a more hands-on approach to coursework
- PhDs follow a more theoretical approach
- Doctoral dissertations focus on real-world issues and how to apply them
- PhD dissertations use data to theorize and form hypotheses
Which one is more expensive: a PhD or a doctorate degree?
The cost of earning either a PhD or doctorate varies depending on many factors, such as institution attended and years of completion. Nevertheless, the average price for a doctorate degree is about $114,300. For a PhD, the average cost is about $98,800 total.
See also: How much does a PhD cost?
Key Takeaways
Frequently asked questions about a PhD vs. a doctorate degree
Does a PhD vs. doctorate take longer to complete?
Is a PhD or doctorate degree easier to apply for?
Other similarities include paperwork such as a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV/resume, and transcripts. Applicants also need to submit relevant test cores such as the GRE, MAT, or LSAT. Which degree requires a more rigorous application depends on the program and institution. Also, some applicants must take part in a formal interview for acceptance into a PhD or doctorate degree.
