Difference between PhD and Professional Doctorate

Choosing between a PhD and a professional doctorate can be a challenging decision. Both degrees represent the pinnacle of academic achievement, yet they serve different purposes and cater to distinct career goals. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the key differences:

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)

A PhD is research-focused and is ideal for those who are passionate about contributing original knowledge to their field. This degree is perfect for aspiring academicians and researchers who aim to teach at the university level or work in research-intensive roles. The journey of a PhD involves:

• In-depth Research: Extensive original research culminating in a dissertation.
• Academic Contribution: Focus on developing new theories and expanding the boundaries of knowledge.
• Career Path: Typically leads to careers in academia, research institutions, and advanced specialist roles.

Professional Doctorate Through VAE

On the other hand, the VAE Professional Doctorate (PD) is conferred on deserving candidates based upon the “Portfolio of Evidence” submitted to EIU’s team of VAE Assessors (validation of prior learning and experience), along with the candidate’s social standing in his/her community/province/state/country, gauged and validated through his/her noteworthy contributions, as well as achievements in the form of creation/invention/problem-solving/social engineering efforts. This process requires no online classes, exams, or research thesis submission—it’s purely based on your portfolio of evidence.

What is the VAE Process?

The Validation of Acquired Experience (VAE) allows you to have your professional or extra-professional knowledge recognized and to obtain a degree without necessarily returning through a training phase or taking an exam. The VAE system is based on the principle that competence is worth a degree.

The VAE or Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience is a procedure for the recognition of prior learning that allows any French educational institution to grant degrees partly or completely based on work experience. A portfolio of the applicant’s achievements and work experience is presented to a committee at the educational institution. The committee will then decide if the documents presented in the portfolio show work that merits partial credit towards a particular degree. The integrity of the vetting procedure is maintained by individual institutions, and producing a false document in support of an application is a felony in France, punished by a large fine and up to three years in jail.

This prestigious certification formally recognizes your advanced expertise and mastery in your field. As a recipient, you are authorized to use the distinguished title of “Dr.” before your name. Take pride in your unrelenting passion and devotion to your profession that has elevated your business to unprecedented heights globally and acknowledge the influence you have had in the corporate, economic, and social realms. In the PD via VAE process, there is no research or any academic requirement. Additionally, this process prioritizes individuals in senior positions, such as CEOs, COOs, Chiefs, Directors, Founders, Owners, heads, and similar roles, recognizing their significant expertise and achievements.

Options for Accepting Applications for a Professional Doctorate

• Option 1: A bachelor’s degree or a 12+ diploma with over 12 years of professional experience will be considered.
• Option 2: A bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree with over 6 years of professional experience will be considered.
• Option 3: If the applicant doesn’t have any previous qualifications, they should have at least 20-22 years of professional experience in a specialized field.

Evidence of achievements such as awards, news publications, research papers, conference presentations, and recommendations is mandatory and must accompany the application.

Which One is Right for You?

Your choice between a PhD and a professional doctorate should align with your career aspirations and personal goals. If your aim is to contribute to academic knowledge and pursue a career in academia or research, a PhD is the way to go. However, if you’re looking to elevate your professional practice and assume leadership roles in your industry, a professional doctorate might be more suitable.

Get Expert Guidance with Sudaco

Navigating the journey of a professional doctorate can be daunting, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be. Sudaco is here to help! Our expert advisors provide personalized guidance to ensure your professional doctorate journey is smooth and successful. From selecting the right program to support throughout your studies, Sudaco is your partner in achieving your academic and professional goals.

Ready to take the next step in your professional journey?

Contact Sudaco today and let us help you achieve your doctorate with confidence and ease.