A doctoral degree is a terminal degree—the highest qualification in an academic or professional field. In the United States, there are two primary types of doctoral degrees:

  • PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) – Research-Based
     Focuses on academic and theoretical knowledge.
     Requires original research that contributes to the existing body of knowledge.
     Typically involves completing a dissertation.
     Suitable for careers in academia, research institutions, and thought leadership.
  • Professional Doctorate – Applied Learning & Leadership
     Designed for professionals seeking advanced expertise in their field.
     Focuses on applying research to solve real-world problems.
     May require a doctoral study or capstone project instead of a dissertation.
     Ideal for industry leaders, executives, policymakers, and practitioners.

Degree Completion Differences: PhD vs. Professional Doctorate

While each university establishes its own policies, PhD and professional doctorate programs generally differ in how students earn their degrees.

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)

 Requires independent research in a chosen field.
 A dissertation is the main requirement.
 Involves multiple stages:

  • Drafting a dissertation prospectus and defending it before a faculty committee.
  • Conducting in-depth original research.
  • Writing a comprehensive dissertation, including a literature review, methodology, findings, and conclusions.
  • Orally defending the dissertation.

Professional Doctorate

 Designed for industry professionals applying knowledge to real-world problems.
 May involve a doctoral study or capstone project instead of a dissertation.
 Focuses on practical application rather than purely theoretical research.

Explore Our Wide Range of Doctoral Programs

At Houston International Professional Online University, we offer over 80 specialized doctoral programs across various fields.

📚 Doctoral Degrees in Business & Management

  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
  • Doctor of Management (D.Mgt.)
  • Doctor of Leadership & Organizational Development

⚖️ Doctoral Degrees in Law & Criminal Justice

  • Doctor of Law & Policy (DLP)
  • Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ)

🎓 Doctoral Degrees in Education

  • Doctor of Education (EdD)
  • Doctor of Curriculum & Instruction
  • Doctor of Higher Education Leadership

🌍 Doctoral Degrees in Environmental Studies & Sustainability

  • Doctor of Environmental Science (DES)
  • Doctor of Renewable Energy & Climate Change

🎭 Doctoral Degrees in Media, Arts & Communication

  • Doctor of Journalism & Media Studies
  • Doctor of Fine Arts (DFA)