What Are the Different Types Of Doctorate Degrees?

In many rapidly growing and emerging fields, professionals seek to differentiate themselves by securing specialized doctoral degrees.Let us look at the different types of Doctorate Degrees.

Different Types Of Doctorate Degrees

Basically, there are two categories of doctoral degrees:

Research Degree

The most familiar type of doctorate degree is the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), which can be earned in different subject areas, and it is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in most countries around the world. 

Generally, Ph.D. degrees are adapted to understand the academic approach that provides the theoretical preparation for fields of study. Ph.D. is for the people who aspire to become professors at post-secondary institutions. It is also required in many research jobs.

The course of study demands two years of advanced courses and then the next two years are allocated to complete a final project that advances the field of study in some way. These advances may be the discovery of a whole new phenomenon or theory, or they may be built on advanced research of previous scholars. 

Some of the top Research Doctorate Degrees include-

 

Ph.D. in Computer Science 

 

Computer Science refers to the design of computers and computational sciences. In order to apply theory and practice to computing, it requires both abstract and concrete thinking. The curriculum for a Ph.D. in Computer Science varies depending on the universities. Topics for a PhD in Computer Science may include

• Information security

• Database systems

• Compilers

• Software engineering

• Computational theory

A Ph.D. in Computer Science for research is usually conducted closely with faculty which requires candidates to work towards completing their dissertation. It prepares students for work in universities, research institutions, and other private or public agencies.

If you are interested in prospering in a growing field, then Ph.D. in Computer Science is maybe what you are looking for.

 

Ph.D. in Physics

 

Physics Ph.D. program typically involves graduates from previous degree programs that provide necessary knowledge in mathematics and science. 

Some specializations for Physics Ph.D. programs include 

• Condensed matter physics 

• Atomic physics

• Molecular physics 

• Optical physics 

• Geophysics

• Biophysics

• High energy/particle physics

• Astrophysics.

Practical applications for specific theoretical training and skills practiced in a Physics Ph.D. program can include engineering, product development, consulting, teaching, and more. Physics Ph.D. topics are considered worthwhile contributions to our knowledge of the world. Duties and expectations for a Physics Ph.D. candidate may include guiding other ongoing research projects, publications, and to assist in teaching undergraduate courses.

 

Ph.D. in Economics 

It provides the research skills and knowledge in specialized fields to the candidates who aspire to become the future teachers and researchers of global economics. 

 

The students engage in class settings for the personal attention required to attain the essential principles of economic theory and also apply them to issues pertaining to government and business problems.

The graduates in Ph.D. Economics are prepared for positions in government, consulting firms, etc as experts in specialized economic fields. Opportunities for supervised independent research and interdisciplinary courses allow for potential Ph.D. Economics candidates to leave the program with a well-rounded and experienced understanding.

Applied and Professional Doctorate

There are numerous other special doctorate degrees such as Doctor of Public Health (DrPH), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), etc. These degrees are focused on applying the knowledge gained in the industry and specialized for advanced jobs.

The professional degrees like the Doctor of Medicine (MD) allow entry into the highly paid professions like doctors, along with possible work experience in the profession. These programs, perhaps even more rigorous than other doctoral programs, require hard work and serious dedication for students to succeed. 

Below is a list of some degrees in Applied and Professional Doctorate

Doctors of Medicine

Doctors of Medicine (MDs) are a common doctoral degree and are perhaps the most employable type of higher education degree available. Doctors of every medical field are expected to have their MD. Physicians and Surgeons make an enormous amount every year, and positions in this field are expected to grow by 13% over the next 10 years. Earning a degree in Doctor of Medicine is however the safest journey towards job stability among doctoral degrees.

Doctor of Physical Therapy

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) requires graduate coursework in either an entry-level or transitional degree program. The Transitional DPT is constructed for those who are currently working in physical therapy and the entry-level DPT program and requires anywhere from 3-4 years of study, including the clinical experience. 

Moreover, DPT is formed to help their students become licensed, Physical Therapists. Graduates who want to become licensed Physical Therapists have to pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), and their doctoral classes go a long way to preparing them. The job outlook is expected to grow by 28% in the next decade. The Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is a great opportunity for students looking to earn their doctoral degree.

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

A doctorate in business administration can prepare you for money-making and profitable positions in many fields, including academia. Most students seek this degree directly after earning their master's degree in a related field. The DBA is a good mix of innovation, evolution, and modification efforts to help the business meet the ever-changing demands of the economy. The program teaches students how to effectively drive and shape organizations by teaching what makes businesses improve, succeed, and fail.

Doctor of Public Health (DPH)

Doctor of Public Health includes programs that affect global or population health DPH programs that are tailored to individuals leading policies and programs in the public health sector. These programs help students to develop critical skills to identify, certify and improve population-based public health strategies, influence public health interventions and strategies, and develop public health policy and programs, and establish economic models to bring meaningful changes.

Conclusion 

The doctorate identifies that a student has mastered either the subject knowledge or the applied theory of the subject. The learnings offered by these degrees are what employers look for when filling leadership or top positions within their company.