A doctoral degree is the highest and most advanced academic degree of formal study one can achieve. On average a doctoral degree takes 7 years to complete. A doctoral degree is in a specific subject and consists of taking classes, passing comprehensive exams and presenting and defending a dissertation or research paper. In order to be accepted into a doctoral degree program you must have a master’s degree.
Some well known doctoral degrees:
- Ph.D. or Doctor of Philosophy
- M.D. or Medical Doctor
- J.D. or Juris Doctor (lawyer)
In addition to the more well-known doctoral degrees, there are other options including a Doctor of Music or Doctor of Nursing Science.
Generally there are two types of doctoral degrees, research doctoral degrees and professional doctoral degrees. Research doctoral degrees generally lead to teaching at the university level. The Ph.D. or Doctor of Theology are some examples of research doctoral degrees.
Professional doctorates train the students to learn information in preparation to perform certain services for instance lawyers (Juris Doctor), physicians (Medical Doctor) and dentist (Doctorate in Dentistry). Many professions require licensure.
