What is an Honorary Doctorate? 

An honorary doctorate is a prestigious title for individuals in recognition of their outstanding contribution to a particular field or society.  

Unlike a traditional PhD, the recipient of an honorary doctorate does not have to complete a course of study or research. Although, with nominations and then university approval.

Honorary degrees are to recognize exceptional contributions to society and accomplishments in a field of study.  

The recipient does not have to earn the degree by fulfilling requirements such as coursework, a thesis or an examination. Honorary doctorates are for many reasons, including academic achievement, charitable work and celebrity status. 

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Honorary Doctorates vs. PhDs 

An honorary doctorate is a way to add credibility and distinction to the speaker without requiring them to go through the process of getting their PhD. The process of earning an honorary doctorate is different from graduating with a PhD or other academic degree. 

1. While honorary doctorates are academic degrees, they are different than a traditional degree.  

2. Instead, universities award an honorary doctorate for extraordinary impact in a related field of study.  

3. This can be after a person’s education or for work that was never formally acknowledged by their alma mater.  

4. But it’s important not to compare the experience of earning an honorary doctorate with that of getting a traditional degree.  

 

Who Qualifies for an Honorary Doctorate? 

Honorary degrees are for those who have put their lives into a specific field and have made outstanding contributions to society. These contributions must be something that has benefited not only their community but the world at large. The individuals selected for these awards often exhibit outstanding moral character and integrity as well. 

An honorary doctorate for several areas; however, some examples include: 

• Education 

• Science 

• Medicine 

• Law 

• Philanthropy 

• Public Service etc.  

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Types of Honorary Doctorates: 

Honorary degrees doesn’t require study material or a research paper. They are usually for the recognition of a person’s achievements in a particular field. 

There are many types of honorary degrees, such as: 

1. Doctorate – Given for important contributions to a field of learning. 

2. Degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD) – Given to those who have demonstrated excellence in law, politics, business or government. 

3. Degree of Doctor of Education (EdD) – Given to those who have made significant contributions to education. 

4. Doctor of Letters (DLitt), Arts (DA), Philosophy (DP), Music (DMus) or Science (DSci)  – Given to those who have made important contributions to research and scholarship. 

5. Honorary Master’s Degree (MA, MSc) – Given for work in creative arts or humanities, social sciences or other areas where an MA is appropriate. 

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What are the Benefits of Taking an Honorary Doctorate degree? 

Benefits of an Honorary Doctorate –  

There are many benefits to obtaining an honorary doctorate. An honorary degree possesses personal gratification and recognition of achievements. Honorary doctorates are for professional purposes, such as speaking engagements, consulting, teaching and other opportunities. 

Honorary doctorate benefits include: 

1. Professional Credibility – Many people who hold honorary doctorates will use the title “doctor” on their business cards and correspondence. This can provide credibility for your professional practice and give you a competitive edge over similar professionals without this credential. 

2. Opportunities for Professional Growth – If you are considering going into teaching or research within your field, having an honorary doctorate may give you an advantage over others who do not possess this level of education. 

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Honorary doctorates are one of the most important and attractive academic awards for someone. Many students dream to be a doctor before they start their journey for education, but it isn’t possible for everyone. Honoraries solve this problem. These doctorates allow people to experience the prestigious feeling of becoming a medical doctor even when it is impossible in general. If you think that you won’t be able to earn one yourself, consider finding out about honorary doctorate programs. These absolute academic awards are those which let people feel the prestige of being a contributor to society.