Complete List of Ph.D. Degrees: Types of Doctoral Programs

Do you want to pursue a Ph.D. but don’t know where to start? Or perhaps you simply want to know what types of Ph.D.s you can choose from. I will discuss the various types of Ph.D. degrees in this article.

I hope that you will find some new areas of interest and perhaps even begin the process of obtaining a degree. 

If you ask how many types of Ph.D.s there are, the answer is simple: there are two main types of doctoral degrees, or Ph.D.s, which are research-oriented and professional application degrees.

The Ph.D. is research-focused, whereas the DBA, EngD, and EdD are all professional degrees.

Also Read: How to Get a Ph.D. in India

Let’s talk about each in detail

Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) represents the most common form of research degree. This degree entails independent, supervised research that aims to make an original and substantial contribution to the existing body of knowledge. 

Students engage in their research either autonomously or collaboratively, culminating in a written thesis that presents a novel and significant contribution to their selected field of study. The Ph.D. program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. 

While it is possible to complete the degree in two years, the majority of students typically require a duration of three to four years to fulfil the requirements when enrolled full-time. This is one of the types of Ph.D. in India.

(If you need guidance related to Ph.D. in India, Schedule a FREE consultation and get your queries answered. CLICK HERE to Schedule.)

Professional Doctorate in Business Administration, DBA

Another popular type of Ph.D. course is DBA. This program is specifically designed for individuals with extensive experience in the fields of business and management. It aims to enhance their practical skills and concepts that can be applied to management theory. 

While the program is academically rigorous, it distinguishes itself from a traditional Ph.D. by not preparing candidates for research-oriented roles or for lecturing within the domain of management.

EdD Degree

The EdD degree, or Doctorate in Education, is specifically tailored for seasoned educators and educational practitioners, integrating practical experience with individualized original research. This program represents a specialized, practice-oriented professional doctorate in the field of Education.

Typically, it encompasses a series of instructional modules complemented by a phase of independent research culminating in an original doctoral dissertation. Furthermore, it provides essential research skills and opportunities for career advancement for these professionals.

EngD

The Doctor of Engineering degree is a professional, industry-focused, specialized engineering degree. The EngD has a substantial taught component, as compared to a Ph.D. This gives you the managerial and technical abilities you need to succeed in your future profession. 

Research engineers are EngD candidates. Research engineers collaborate with an academic supervisor and a partner company to finish an autonomous research project that tackles an active industrial problem.

Part-time and online Ph.D.

The majority of working professionals in India prefer part-time Ph.D. programs that allow them to take a limited number of in-person classes. These programs typically last four to six years (or seven years). 

Earning an online Ph.D. degree typically requires students to conduct rigorous research and study for four years. (Also, check out my book, ‘A Guide to a Topic Selection Journey for First-time Researchers: ZEROING IN ON A RESEARCH TOPIC‘) 

Most students opt for research guidance in such cases. They make use of Ph.D. writing services as well to be able to clear and understand the Ph.D. journey better.

The new route Ph.D.

Last but not the least is, this new kind of program, which was created in 2001 to serve international students who have not had the same exposure to research as their UK counterparts.

The four-year new route program, also known as the integrated Ph.D., teaches students a range of research approaches in addition to providing them with in-depth instruction on their field.

There are undoubtedly more Ph.D.s available than you may have initially thought of. 

You have a lot of alternatives and ways to earn a Ph.D. in your chosen profession because of the range and sorts of Ph.D.s that are now available. 

I hope this post gave you some idea of the many types of Ph.D., but if you need any help, make use of my research consulting services. Thank you!