What Is a Ph.D.? | Definition, Origin vs Process

A PhD is a much higher level of academic qualification one can attain. It is a Doctoral research degree. This degree is normally 4 years, sometimes 3 years, giving this work your full time to complete your thesis on a particular subject you opt for. Or we can say that subject which is your PhD about.

Key Takeaways

  1. A PhD is the highest academic degree university award for original research in a particular field.
  2. It takes 3-5 years to complete and requires a thesis or dissertation.
  3. PhD holders pursue careers in academia, research, or other specialized fields.
Quiche vs Souffle 92

Definition

There are a lot of questions from people about this degree. As it stands for “Doctor of Philosophy”, some people ask that after doing this, some become a Doctor. The answer is yes, but not that type of Doctor. Or, Do we have you or someone has to study philosophy? No, it is not that, but you can here if you want to study it.

It is an abbreviation of the Latin term ‘Philosophiae Doctor’. In Philosophy, Philo means friend or lover of, and Sophia means wisdom. This meaning comes from its original Greek Meaning.

Now, before rushing further in this article, let’s find out what a PhD is and why it is the word ‘Doctor’ in it.

Doctorate and PhD.

Let’s see what we know so far about this topic. Doctorate and PhD there is no difference between these two.

A doctorate; is a qualification given to the one studying for a Doctoral Degree (we already discuss the Doctoral Degree above). A PhD is a Doctoral Degree, so whoever has done a PhD in a subject, a Doctorate word is given to them as they get their degree. And after this, they can put Doctor before their name.

To qualify for a Doctoral Degree, one has to provide the best work on the subject of your PhD that makes a particular contribution to your opted subject. The very common Doctoral Degree is a PhD. Also, other doctorates are awarded in a specific subject or for professional projects or practicals.

So, you see that not all doctorates are PhD. But all the PhDs are doctorates.

Origin of PhD

Despite its meaning, a PhD isn’t a Greek Degree of the ancient period. However, it is much of a recent degree. From the sources, the PhD was developed in Germany in the 19th century.

At that time, advanced education had focused on mastering a current group of scholarships, and the most noteworthy academic position accessible was, fittingly, a Masters’s certificate.

After this, all the focus moved to thinking of new ideas and finding new knowledge. At that time, this PhD degree came into being or, say, introduced those capable of significant expertise and skills.

Process followed for pursuing a PhD

Unlike most master’s degree courses, a PhD is an exploration degree. However, that doesn’t mean you’ll go through three years secured away from a library or research facility. Indeed, the PhD of modern times is diverse and capable of a wide range of segments.

A person who is doing a PhD. It goes through kind a tough series of stages.

It involves:

  1. Literature Review.
  2. Conducting Original Reviews.
  3. Producing a Thesis.
  4. Writing up the Thesis as well as submitting it.
  5. Defending your Thesis in VOC. Exam.
References
  1. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/002248718303400311
  2. http://search.proquest.com/openview/2028cb5671ed323ed2f52dd012b323bc/1.pdf?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=41824

Last Updated : 11 June, 2023

dot 1
One request?

I’ve put so much effort writing this blog post to provide value to you. It’ll be very helpful for me, if you consider sharing it on social media or with your friends/family. SHARING IS ♥️

25 thoughts on “What Is a Ph.D.? | Definition, Origin vs Process”

  1. The transformation of advanced education and the introduction of the PhD degree in the 19th century are significant revelations from this article.

    Reply
  2. This article effectively presents differentiated views on the PhD degree, dispelling misconceptions and offering valuable insights.

    Reply
  3. It’s intriguing to learn about the origin and development of the PhD degree, it reveals the evolution of academic excellence.

    Reply
    • Agreed, understanding the history of the PhD provides valuable insight into how it has become such a prestigious qualification.

      Reply
  4. This article effectively dispels misconceptions surrounding the PhD degree, offering clarity on its meaning and significance.

    Reply
  5. The information about the process followed for pursuing a PhD offers a clear understanding of the dedicated efforts required in doctoral research.

    Reply
  6. The process followed for pursuing a PhD, as outlined in this article, offers crucial insights into the dedication and commitment required for original research.

    Reply
    • Absolutely, the meticulous explanation of the various stages in a PhD journey is enlightening for aspiring doctoral candidates.

      Reply
  7. The delineation between doctorate and PhD, combined with the historical context of the PhD’s origin, provides a rich understanding of its scholarly contributions.

    Reply
  8. The comprehensive overview of the PhD degree, its meaning, and the pursuit of scholarly contributions provides a rich understanding of its academic significance.

    Reply
  9. The comprehensive overview of the PhD degree and the process involved in pursuing it provides valuable information for aspiring doctoral researchers.

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Want to save this article for later? Click the heart in the bottom right corner to save to your own articles box!