What is a Doctoral Degree? A complete guide

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What is a doctoral degree?

A doctoral degree is the highest academic degree you can earn. It shows you’ve reached expert-level knowledge in your field and can contribute new ideas or advanced practice. Doctoral programs go deeper than a master’s degree and often include research, advanced coursework, and a final project.

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Many students pursue a doctorate to teach at the university level, step into leadership roles, or move into specialized careers. Degrees like the Ph.D., Ed.D., Psy.D., DNP, and DBA each open different doors depending on your goals.

What types of of doctoral degrees are there?

Doctoral degrees fall into two main groups: academic doctorates and professional doctorates. Academic doctorates focus on research and building new knowledge. Professional doctorates focus on applying advanced skills in real-world settings.

  • Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy): A research-focused degree in STEM, humanities, or social sciences. Great for teaching, research, or roles that need deep analysis.

  • Ed.D. (Doctor of Education): A practice-based degree for future school, district, or higher-ed leaders.

  • Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology): A clinical degree for students training to become licensed psychologists.

  • DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice): An advanced nursing degree for leadership, patient care, and healthcare innovation roles.

  • DBA (Doctor of Business Administration): A business doctorate for professionals moving into executive leadership or applied business research.

Choosing the right path usually depends on what you enjoy most—research, leadership, teaching, or hands-on practice.

What do I need to apply to a doctoral degree program?

Doctoral degree admissions usually require strong academic preparation and a clear sense of your research or professional goals. While every program is different, most expect applicants to show they’re ready for advanced, independent work.

Common admissions requirements include:

What are typical doctoral degree requirements?

Doctoral programs vary, but most share a similar structure. You’ll complete advanced courses, meet research or clinical requirements, and finish with a major final project.

Coursework

You’ll start with courses that build advanced knowledge in your field. These classes help you learn theory, methods, ethics, and research skills.

Dissertation

A dissertation is original research you design, complete, and defend. Not all programs require one—some use a capstone project, portfolio, or applied study instead.

Residency

Some programs include on-campus sessions or clinical experiences. Residencies help you build hands-on skills and connect with faculty and peers.

How long does it take to earn a doctoral degree?

Most doctoral programs take three to seven years to complete. Your timeline depends on your field, the type of program you choose, and how quickly you move through major milestones. 

Here are the main factors that can decide how long your doctorate takes:

  • Field of study:  STEM and clinical programs often take longer because of lab work or supervised practice.

  • Dissertation or capstone: Research design, data collection, and revisions can add time.

  • Enrollment pace: Part-time programs usually take longer.

  • Program format: Online programs offer flexibility for working students but may take longer than an on-campus program

  • Degree milestones — Coursework, exams, research, clinical hours, and final projects all affect your pace.

Most programs follow the same core path: coursework, exams, research, and a final project that brings you to the finish line.

What are the benefits of earning a doctoral degree?

Earning a doctoral degree can open doors that aren’t always accessible with a bachelor’s or master’s. It’s a chance to level up your expertise and step into roles where your ideas really matter.

Here’s what a doctorate can offer:

  • Access to top-tier roles in research, academia, healthcare, education leadership, or business.

  • Stronger earning potential and solid long-term career stability in fields that rely on expert knowledge.

  • Leadership opportunities where you guide teams, shape strategy, and influence big decisions.

  • Sharper problem-solving and communication skills that help you break down complex ideas and explain them clearly.

  • A chance to create new knowledge or lead meaningful change in your field or community.

Doctoral degree vs master's degree: Which one is right for me?

A master’s degree deepens your knowledge. A doctoral degree expands it even further and pushes you to create new ideas or practice at the highest possible level. Think of a doctorate as the last stop on the academic ladder.

The workload is also different. Doctoral programs often require more time, more research, and bigger final projects. A master’s degree may be a better choice for quick career growth, while a doctorate is ideal if you want to research, teach, or lead at an advanced level.

Funding your doctoral degree

Paying for a doctoral degree can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Many students use a mix of scholarships, grants, assistantships, and loans to cover costs.

Scholarships

Scholarships are one of the best ways to pay for a doctoral degree because they don’t need to be repaid. Graduate students can find opportunities through their schools, outside organizations, and scholarship search tools.

Here are a few Sallie resources that can help you unlock scholarships: 

Grants

Grants are another form of gift aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. Some grants are tied to financial need, while others support specific research projects or academic goals.  To see what federal aid you qualify for, be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).

Student loans

Many doctoral students use federal or private student loans to help bridge the gap between their financial aid and the cost of attendance. Start with federal student loans, which may offer more flexibility with payments. Then, compare private student loans if you still have costs to cover.

FAQs about doctoral degrees

What is a doctoral degree in simple terms?

It’s the highest academic degree, showing you’ve reached expert-level knowledge in your field. Most programs include advanced coursework, research, and a final project such as a dissertation or capstone.

Is a doctorate worth it?

It can be, especially if your career goals involve research, teaching, clinical practice, or leadership roles. A doctorate can offer long-term career stability, strong earning potential, and the chance to make a real impact in your field.

Do I need a master’s degree to start a doctorate?

Not always. Some programs accept students directly from a bachelor’s program, while others require a completed master’s degree before you start. Check each program’s doctoral degree requirements as you build your list.

Do all doctoral programs require a dissertation?

Many Ph.D. programs do, but professional doctorates may offer capstones or applied research projects instead of a traditional dissertation. The final project depends on your field and the type of degree you choose.

Do I need to take the GRE or GMAT?

Some programs require entrance exams like the GRE or the GMAT, depending on your field. You can learn more and prep smart with our GRE Test Prep Guide and GMAT Test Prep Guide.

Can I earn a doctorate online?

Yes. Many programs offer fully online or hybrid options, especially in education, nursing, and business. Online programs can help you balance classes with work or family responsibilities while still meeting high academic standards.

How competitive are doctoral programs?

They can be competitive, especially in research-focused fields with limited funding. Strong academic preparation, relevant experience, clear goals, and a thoughtful personal statement can help you stand out in the application process.

Final notes on doctorate degrees

A doctoral degree is a big commitment, but it can also be a powerful way to grow your career, sharpen your skills, and step into expert-level roles. With the right program, support system, and funding plan, you can take this next step confidently and on your terms.

If you’re still narrowing down your options, tools like Scout College Search can help you explore programs that match your goals, interests, and budget, so you can build a path that feels right for you.

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