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Doctor of Philosophy Degrees

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UNMC offers the PhD degree in a variety of fields within the biomedical sciences, nursing and public health. Doctoral training in these fields can serve as a springboard to careers in the public and private sectors. The diverse range of career opportunities includes scientific research, drug discovery & design, policy & law, science/medical writing & communication, counseling, healthcare/biomedical informatics, and higher education.

All UNMC students pursuing the PhD degree must satisfy general requirements established by the University of Nebraska Graduate College and UNMC Graduate Studies (see Requirements for Graduate Degrees ), as well as the specific requirements of each PhD program (detailed in this section). 

• Biomedical Informatics PhD and MD/PhD
• Biostatistics PhD  
• Environmental Health, Occupational Health & Toxicology PhD 
• Epidemiology PhD
• Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Research PhD 
• Health Services and Policy Research PhD
• Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences PhD 
• Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area PhD 
• Nursing PhD
• Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD and MD/PhD 

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What’s the Difference Between MD and PhD Programs?

What’s the difference between MD and PhD programs? Both an MD and a Ph.D. are doctorates awarded to people who finish the highest level of graduate education. However, MD and Ph.D. holders have quite distinct professional paths. Understanding the difference between MD and Ph.D. will help you choose the one that best matches your academic and career goals. Here, we’ll go through the similarities and distinctions between an MD and a Ph.D., as well as some pointers on how to decide between the two. Here are these medical degrees explained:

The Difference Between MD and Ph.D.

MDs are medical doctors who treat patients, whereas PhDs are researchers who specialize in a particular field of study. The Latin phrase medicinae doctor , which translates to teacher of medicine , is where we get the English acronym MD. People who have earned an MD, also known as a Doctor of Medicine, have participated in clinical training during their time in graduate school in order to become physicians upon completion of their studies.

The title philosophiae doctor , from which we get the name Ph.D., literally translates to teacher of philosophy . However, the term is applicable to a wider variety of people than merely philosophy teachers. Students pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy degree, sometimes known as a Ph.D., follow a curriculum distinct from that followed by those pursuing a Doctor of Medicine. Ph.D. candidates are required to undertake research in their respective fields of study rather than getting experience in the workforce. Graduates with PhDs usually find employment in a field relevant to their major or the specialized field they studied.

Dual MD/Ph.D. Programs

An MD/Ph.D. is a dual doctorate. The curriculum alternates between clinical and research-oriented components. This is perfect for people who want to learn both clinical and research-focused aspects of medicine. Approximately 600 students enter MD-PhD programs annually, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.

MD/ Ph.D. vs MD 

MD Ph.D. graduates are also known as physician-scientists or medical scientists since they hold a Ph.D. in addition to their MD degree. Medical professionals with an MD degree and a Ph.D. are both considered medical doctors. To obtain this additional degree, you will need to participate in a program that is longer and structured differently than MD programs. MD Ph.D. programs typically last anywhere from seven to eight years and require students to attend both medical school and graduate school. On the other hand, medical doctor (MD) programs can be finished in just four years, which is just half the amount of time required for MD Ph.D. students.

Although the initial two years of instruction in both programs take place in classrooms, MD Ph.D. students continue to graduate school to work on their dissertations for an additional three to four years after those first two years. After that, they will return to medical school to complete their clinical training for another year or two. To obtain a license to practice medicine, graduates with an MD or MD Ph.D. degree must first finish a residency program that lasts between three and seven years.

Application and Cost

The application process is the same whether you are interested in an MD Ph.D. or an MD program. Most programs require you to apply through AMCAS. You will fill out all application sections (including the AMCAS work and activities section) and upload your coursework, letters of recommendation, and medical school personal statement. Find out if the CASPer test is required for admission to the schools of your choice. If so, begin practicing with CASPer sample questions as soon as possible. Students will be required to write two additional essays to explain why they want to pursue an MD Ph.D. degree as well as their research experience. 

In public medical schools, the annual tuition and fees for MD students are about $37,000; in private or out-of-state medical schools, the annual tuition and fees are about $62,000. In contrast, students enrolled in MD-PhD programs have access to reduced or even free tuition, as many programs waive tuition and provide financial aid to cover living costs. The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) funds 49 MD Ph.D. programs through the highly competitive Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP).

Competition

Both MD Ph.D. and MD programs are notoriously difficult to get into, with acceptance rates ranging on average from 1 percent to 4 percent. The number of available MD Ph.D. programs is significantly lower than the number of MD programs, and the advantage of significantly reduced or waived tuition contributes to an even higher level of competition, particularly in MSTPs compared to MD programs.

To be a competitive MD Ph.D. applicant, you should have a higher GPA and MCAT score than if you applied as an MD applicant. MD programs have varying levels of competition, and there are MD programs that receive a large number of applicants competing for a limited number of spots. It is entirely dependent on the school, the program, and the application cycle to determine whether or not some MD programs are more competitive than MD-PhD programs.

Salary and Career Prospects

Although it may appear obvious that students who graduate from MD programs become medical doctors and the majority of them practice medicine in hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and private practices, some students are unsure of what a career as a physician-scientist entails. Although many MD Ph.D. graduates choose to complete their residency training in internal medicine, pathology, pediatrics, and neurology, there are also graduates working in a wide variety of other medical specialties, including surgery, radiology, and emergency medicine. Other typical specialties for MD graduates include pediatrics, emergency medicine, and family medicine. One study by the American Association for Medical Education and Research (AAMC) found that nearly 80 percent of MD Ph.D. graduates are employed as professors at medical schools or in research institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), pharmaceutical companies, and other government agencies. More than 7,000 MD-PhD alumni participated in this study, and 82% said they would do it all over again, even if they could go back in time and do it all over again.

Physician-scientists are trained to not only have in-depth knowledge of the medical field but also of population health and disease, as well as the ability to conduct research and analysis independently. With a dual degree, physician-scientists can treat patients, detect health threats, and develop new treatments, therapies, or cures. When employed in academic settings, physician-scientists have the opportunity to teach, provide clinical services, and conduct their own or joint research. Physician-scientists typically earn between $60,000 and $115,000 per year, depending on the type and location of employment.

Physicians are responsible for managing and supporting the health and wellbeing of the patients in their care. They can manage and significantly improve their patients’ health through physical exams, diagnostic tests, treatment, and communication. Surgical procedures and treatment of illness and disease, either on a general or a specific level, may be performed by doctors of different specialties. The range of annual salaries is usually between $180,000 and $280,000, depending on the level of specialization.

Which Option Is the Most Suitable for You? MD or MD-PhD?

For some students putting on the safety glasses in science class or reviving a childhood teddy bear was a defining moment in choosing the medical field as their future path. However, not everyone is blessed with an immediate passion or the typical “aha” moment. Sometimes, a student’s interest in medicine or research develops later in life through experiences or education, which is perfectly normal. So what if your interests lie somewhere between the two fields of science and medicine? What factors should you consider when deciding between obtaining a degree in medicine (MD) and a joint degree (MD-PhD)? It is essential to choose only after you have considered various factors and are one hundred percent sure about your decision. The reality is that neither choice will be easy, and you’ll need to be willing to invest the necessary amount of time, money, and effort to achieve success.

Why Do Some Students Choose an MD-PhD?

Here are some reasons why people want to be both doctors and scientists.

As a physician-scientist, you’ll have a unique career path. One of the most rewarding aspects of working as a medical researcher is solving a patient’s medical issues while pursuing scientific research that could lead to a clinical cure for that particular disease.

MD-PhD trainees are medical researchers who also have a strong desire to practice medicine in a clinical setting.

The MD-PhD curriculum is designed to integrate the scientific and medical education of the future physician-scientist effectively and efficiently.

In the years leading up to their Ph.D., MD-PhD students complete coursework and receive formal training in research methodology.

Most MD-PhD programs offer trainees financial support in the form of stipends and scholarships to cover tuition costs. This financial support acknowledges the amount of time a student must devote to training in order to pursue a career in both medicine and research (MD-PhD). However, each program’s level of financial assistance varies, and some may provide assistance to only United States citizens and permanent residents.

MD-PhD Training Areas of Research

When applying to specific MD-PhD Programs, one essential factor to consider is the variety of the available graduate degree programs.

Most candidates for MD-PhD programs earn their Ph.D. in a biomedical laboratory discipline like cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, pharmacology, physiology, neuroscience, or biomedical engineering.

Students in some MD-PhD programs may also complete graduate work in non-laboratory disciplines such as computer science, economics, epidemiology, health care policy, or even the history of medicine and its social and cultural influences.

How to Choose Between an MD and a Ph.D.

Figure out what motivates you the most.

It would help if you first consider what you’re interested in and what drives you. This will help you figure out what you’re passionate about. Suppose you are confident that you are interested in medicine and assisting other people but are only slightly interested in research. In that case, it is probably a good idea to pursue medicine on its own rather than research. The MD Ph.D. program isn’t easy because it takes almost twice as long as an MD program. Students should only go for this joint degree if they are serious about both medicine and research. The joint program may be a good fit for you if you have a strong interest in disease mechanisms, are curious about the unknown, and can’t imagine a career that doesn’t involve research in some capacity.

First and foremost, decide if you want to become a medical doctor or a physician-scientist. People driven by their passions are more likely to find fulfillment in their work because they are doing what they truly want to do. You’ll have a rewarding career only when you have enough motivation to put in the necessary time and effort.

Think About the Dynamics of Your Preferred Job

Doctors spend a lot of time talking to their patients and families, and they need good communication skills. In hospitals, doctors may work unusual hours, even on weekends and holidays; in offices, they can have a more conventional schedule. If you decide to get a Ph.D., you might spend a lot of time working alone in a lab, or you might decide to teach students in your field. Whether you want an MD or a Ph.D. can depend on what kind of work environment and schedule you want.

Trust Your Own Experience

Is it possible to know for sure which path is the best for you? Before submitting your applications, get some hands-on experience in the field. This is the best opportunity to see whether you’ll like your future career path. If you’re torn between an MD and an MD Ph.D. program, make sure you get some clinical and research experience before making a decision. This is an excellent opportunity for you to gain practical experience in both fields and determine which ones pique your interest the most. You could sign up for volunteering opportunities that will give you first-hand experience in medicine or research. These experiences will be crucial when applying to medical school, but they’ll also help you narrow your interests.

Finally, remember that if you are still unsure which path is the best, you could always reach out to our Academic Advisors and seek their guidance.

By setting up a free one-on-one meeting with our friendly and knowledge advisors, you will be able to gain the valuable insight as to which career path you would like to take and how to get there. CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED .

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PhD in Health Professions Education

Become a health professions educator, scholar, and leader

The PhD in Health Professions Education (HPEd) program prepares clinicians and other health professionals without a research degree to make contributions to the scholarship of teaching and learning. The program meets the faculty requirement for doctoral-level expertise in numerous health professions. 

• Concentration Tracks
• MS to PhD Path

The PhD program incorporates and builds on the Institute's  Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MS-HPEd)  by providing additional part-time (or full-time) blended learning with outcomes commensurate with a research-based PhD. Candidates from similar MS-HPEd programs are welcome to apply.

Applicants can earn their PhD through one of two paths:

• Post MS-HPEd PhD: 33 credits
• Combined MS-HPEd and PhD: 66 credits
• All required courses in the MS-HPEd degree:  33 credits  (PhD students who have already completed this or a comparable master's degree can waive this portion of the requirements)
• Core required doctoral courses in educational sciences, research methods, and implementation science:  18 credits
• Online synchronous sessions:  2 credits
• Dissertation seminar and mentored research spread over several semesters (with built-in gaps to enable IRB reviews and data collection):  7 credits

Required Courses:  60 credits Electives:  6 credits Curriculum Plan (66 credits)

View Curriculum Plan

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

• Design health professions curricula and evaluate program outcomes
• Lead change and innovation in health professions education
• Obtain intramural and extramural support for research projects
• Engage in peer-reviewed scholarship in an area of expertise
• Contribute to interprofessional education and practice leading to improved health outcomes

Students pursuing the PhD in HPEd can choose from the following concentration tracks: 

• Interprofessional Education
• Customized concentration

We are now accepting applications for Fall 2024 entry on a rolling admissions basis.

If you have any questions, please email us at  admissions [at] mghihp.edu (admissions[at]mghihp[dot]edu) . 

Applicants may apply for the PhD through two tracks for the Fall 2024 application cycles:

• Post MS-HPEd PhD: 33 credits Applicants who have a master’s level degree in health professions education from other institutions should apply through this track and include materials related to completed courses so that they may be applied toward the PhD.   
• Combined MS-HPEd and PhD: 66 credits Applicants who have very similar master's degrees or higher, should apply through this track. Some MS courses may be waived, and in other cases courses will not be waived. 

For either track each individual case will be considered on its own merits.  

Application Fee

All applicants are required to submit a completed online application. There is no application fee required for this program.

Applicants must have an earned bachelor's degree from one of the following:

• A regionally accredited U.S. college or university
• An accredited college or university (for those educated outside the U.S.)

Please refer to the  Council for Higher Education Accreditation  website for additional information on regional accreditation and regionally accredited institutions.

Important:  Applicants applying for the PhD in Health Professions Education program (33 credits) must have successfully earned a Master of Science in Health Professions Education (or equivalent) from MGH Institute of Health Professions, or a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.

The GRE is not required as part of the application process. The faculty will carefully consider applicant's previous academic record in the admissions decision.

TOEFL/ IELTS

The language of instruction and clinical education at the MGH Institute is English and a high level of proficiency in both written and spoken English is required.  Applicants who have not completed either an undergraduate or graduate program where English is the language of instruction must demonstrate English Language proficiency as part of your application to the MGH Institute of Health Professions.  If you have questions about the language requirements, please contact the Office of Admissions.

• Applicants who are citizens of Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean are not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Applicants who are candidates for graduation from an accredited degree-granting program in the United States or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above are also not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Acceptance to the IHP will be contingent upon successful completion of this degree prior to matriculation.

Please note that in some circumstances, demonstrating English language proficiency may be required by the academic program even if you are a citizen of a country in which the (or one of the) national language(s) is English. Decisions about the need for TOEFL or IELTS scores are at the discretion of the academic program to which you are applying in coordination with the department of OES.

The IHP accepts either the  TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)  or the  IELTS (International English Language Testing System) . The test must have been taken within two years of the application deadline and official score reports are required. The minimum TOEFL (internet-based) score accepted is 89 and the minimum IELTS score accepted is 6.5.  

• To forward your TOEFL score please contact the  Educational Testing Service (ETS) .  The MGH Institute of Health Professions code is 3513.
• For IELTS, a Test Report Form may be mailed to MGH Institute of Health Professions and score information will be verified by the IHP directly. You may designate up to 5 schools to receive Test Report Forms at the time you register for the test.  To request additional Test Report Forms, contact your test center.

Please contact the Office of Admissions if you have any questions about the MGH Institute’s English Language requirements. 

Applicants are required to submit a transcript from each college and/or university attended, even if a degree was not received from that institution. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted throughout the application process, and official transcripts will only be required prior to enrolling in the program. 

The Office of Admission strongly encourages the use of online electronic transcript ordering which can be sent directly via email to  admissions [at] mghihp.edu (admissions[at]mghihp[dot]edu) . If this is not an option and your institution does not participate in electronic transcript delivery, please request official transcripts be sent to the mailing address listed below:

Admission Office MGH Institute of Health Professions 36 First Avenue Boston, MA 02129  

Applicants that have earned a degree from a non-US institution are required to submit a course-by-course credential evaluation from one of the following NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services) members: Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.,  SpanTran: The Evaluation Company , World Education Services (WES), or the Center for Educational Documentation. If you earned your bachelor's degree outside of the U.S. this credential evaluation must document minimum equivalency of a US baccalaureate degree or higher.

Personal Statement

All applicants are required to compose an essay that addresses the following:

In a 500-700 word statement, please discuss your academic objectives pertaining to your proposed plan of study, including contemplated research projects and professional career goals. Include evidence from your past educational, administrative, research, or teaching experiences that demonstrate your ability to succeed in the doctoral program. Applicants should include how their goals align with those of the HPEd program related to:

• Build skills in teaching and assessment of learners in the health professions 
• Generate scholarship to address gaps in current literature supporting health professions education
• Develop skills to assess and advance change in education across the health professions

Diversity Statement (Optional)

MGH Institute of Health Professions is committed to an inclusive campus climate that welcomes students who will enrich the diversity of thought and perspective, and therefore, enhance the learning experiences of all. In what ways might you personally contribute to improving the experience of the campus as a welcoming and inclusive place to learn? 

Essay should be 12 pt. font, double spaced, and two pages in length.  

Recommendation Letters

Applicants are required to provide two recommendation letters. All recommendations will be processed electronically through our online application. Please provide contact information for each recommender within the online application.

Recommendation letters should come from individuals who are able to address your academic ability, character and integrity, as well as your potential for graduate professional study. At least one letter should come from an academic reference. One letter is required from an MGH Institute faculty member particularly if you are IHP alumni or have previously worked with one of our faculty.

An optional third recommendation letter may be included; however no more than three recommendation letters will be reviewed as part of your application.

Resume or CV

Applicants are required to submit a current resume or CV.

Tuition Reduction for MGB Employees, Alumni and Affiliates

The most important and exciting aspect of earning a PhD is the opportunity to master a subfield related to your work and experience while conducting original scholarship that contributes to your subfield and pushes it forward. Students come to MGH Institute from all areas of healthcare with a variety of goals. We offer students an opportunity to apply once, to our MS-HPEd program, and continue through to their PhD without another application. This is especially valuable to students with less experience in health professions education. Our faculty are available to meet with you to help you decide what path is right for you.

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The ihp advantage.

Customized Program Design

You will work with a dedicated advisor and dissertation committee to conduct cutting-edge research on a topic of your choice. Contribute to the field with quantitative measures, including the number and diversity of publications, presentations, and student outcomes.

Learn on Your Schedule

Blended instruction and research balances the flexibility of distance learning with onsite instruction to develop your scholarship. We will help you plan your research around your work schedule and integrate it into your clinical setting.

Hone Your Expertise

Take the next step to becoming a leading expert in your field. Master literature pertaining to your chosen topic, identify knowledge gaps, and conduct research to fill them. Leverage collaborations with Harvard Macy Institute, Mass General Brigham, and the Center for Medical Simulation.

Learn from Experts

Janice C. Palaganas, PhD, RN, NP, ANEF, FNAP, FAAN, FSSH

Founding Director, Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research Principal Investigator, REBEL Lab Professor, Health Professions Education

• [email protected]

Roger A. Edwards, ScD

Chair, Professor Health Professions Education

• [email protected]
• (617) 643-7740

Suzan Kardong-Edgren, PhD, RN, ANEF, CHSE, FSSH, FAAN

Associate Professor Health Professions Education

• [email protected]

Bobbie Ann Adair White, EdD, MA

• [email protected]

Anshul Kumar, PhD

Assistant Professor Health Professions Education Genetic Counseling

• [email protected]

Anne W. Thompson, PT, EdD

Adjunct Associate Professor Term Lecturer Health Professions Education

• [email protected]

The New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

The PhD in Health Professions Education was approved by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education in June 2019. The New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) approved the PhD in Health Professions Education at its September 2019 meeting.

Realize your personal & professional development goals.

• Education /
• Graduate School /
• Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Biomedical Sciences (IDP) /
• Pharmacology and Toxicology PhD Program

Pharmacology & Toxicology PhD Program at the Medical College of Wisconsin

Message from the Director

Christopher Olsen, PhD

Associate Professor of Pharmacology & Toxicology Director, Graduate Program in Pharmacology & Toxicology

[email protected] (414) 955-7629

Welcome to the Pharmacology Graduate Program at MCW! Research in our department focuses on cancer biology, cardiovascular disease, neuropharmacology, and structural biology. We offer a flexible program for students interested in basic biological processes, translational science, and/or drug discovery.

Pharmacology and Toxicology

About the program, current students, tuition and fees.

Find out more about our current Pharmacology & Toxicology students.

The doctoral program in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the Medical College of Wisconsin has two major components: graduate level coursework and the completion of a novel, publishable research project.

The coursework requirements of the doctoral program are flexible and tailored to the needs of individual students as much as possible. Typically, the first-year curriculum for doctoral students consists of a set of core courses covering the fundamentals of biochemistry, molecular genetics, molecular biology of the cell and cellular signal transduction. However, an alternative translational core curriculum is available with focus on organ system biology and translational science.  Subsequently, students may take semester long graduate courses on pharmacological principles, receptors and second messengers, ion channels and drug discovery. The option to take a medical pharmacology course is available.

After completion of the initial coursework, students take a qualifying examination. The qualifying examination consists of writing and defending a research proposal in an area different from the student's dissertation research. The exam typically takes place in the second year of the doctoral program.

After a student has successfully passed his or her qualifying examination and completed the basic coursework, his or her time is spent engaged in a cutting edge research project in the laboratory of a member of the department's graduate faculty. The final requirement of the program is for the student to write and defend a dissertation describing their research project

Requirements and Guidelines for PhD Program  (PDF) 

The objective of the graduate training program in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the Medical College of Wisconsin is to train biomedical researchers for the 21st Century. Our goal is to give our students the skills to conduct independent research at the cutting edge of biomedical science. Candidates can pursue their PhD degree by applying to either the Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences (IDP) , the Neuroscience Research Program (NDP) , or direct admission into the Pharmacology and Toxicology  program.

Doctor of Philosophy; Master of Science (special arrangement only). These programs expose students to a variety of perspectives in biomedical research and allow exploration of multiple fields within the biomedical sciences before choosing a specific program for their dissertation.

A Bachelor’s degree (either completed or in the process of completing) is required for admission to any MCW graduate program. Applicants will ideally have a 3.0 or higher grade point average (GPA). Personal statements and letters of recommendation from professors, advisors, research supervisors, etc. who know you well are highly regarded in the admission process. An official test score, GRE or otherwise, is no longer required for admission consideration. However, test score submissions will be consider if they are submitted voluntarily. Prior research experience is also strongly considered.

The MCW Graduate School operates on a rolling admissions basis. However, applications accepted by the priority application deadline of December 15 th will receive first priority for admission the following Fall. Students are admitted once per year.

If you have questions regarding tuition or your account, please contact the Office of Student Accounts, at (414) 955-8172 or  [email protected] . Please refer to the  All Student Handbook  (PDF) for tuition payment policies and information.

• Tuition and Fees Schedule  (PDF)
• View your Tuition Statement  (login required)

PhD Students All full-time PhD degree-seeking students in good academic and professional standing receive the following financial support package:

• Full tuition coverage
• Yearly stipend ($33,612 for the '23-'24 academic year)
• Complimentary health insurance

There is no additional process to secure this package aside from accepting an offer of admission. Further, this package is guaranteed from the time of enrollment through completion of degree requirements.

Current MCW Employees Tuition Course Approval Form - Human Resources  (PDF)

Late Fees There is a $250 late payment fee for tuition not paid on time according to the Tuition Payments policy in the  All Student Handbook  (PDF).

• Faculty Bios & Research

Graduate Program Student Information Requirements and Guidelines - Student and Faculty Handbook (PDF) Effective July 1, 2009 (updated version April 2019) for the Pharmacology & Toxicology Graduate Program

PhD and Master's Degree Forms

Please refer to the Graduate School webpage for more information

Graduate School Suite H2200 8701 Watertown Plank Rd. Milwaukee, WI 53226

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M.D./Ph.D. Program

The Miller School’s M.D./Ph.D. program, our Medical Scientist Training Program, prepares the next generation of physician-scientists to drive breakthroughs in fields such as cancer, genetics/genomics, regenerative medicine, immunotherapy, infectious diseases and more.

Our students delve into medical complexities through rigorous research, expanding scientific knowledge to uncover new insights that will revolutionize medical care. Their work often leads to the development of cutting-edge therapies, novel medical technologies and refined clinical approaches that directly translate to improved patient outcomes. 

We foster an environment of critical thinking, curiosity and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a result, our students train in biomedical sciences, public health and biomedical engineering alongside preeminent scientists and scholars at our world-renowned institutes, departments and centers of excellence. 

Visit the M.D./Ph.D. program website  in the Office of Graduate Studies for more information.

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abbreviation or noun

Definition of phd, examples of phd in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'PhD.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

New Latin philosophiae doctor

1839, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near PhD

Cite this entry.

“PhD.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/PhD. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

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How can one differentiate between Dr. (PhD) and Dr. (MD or DO)?

Reading the question posted here left me with a more general question:

Given the professional title and name: Dr. (First Name)(Last Name), is there some way to differentiate between the holder of a philosophical doctorate and a medical doctor? Wouldn't it be more appropriate for a PhD holder to have the title (First Name)(Last Name), PhD?

14 Answers 14

You can't immediately tell from the title, but then titles are not typically used by an individual to broadcast their occupation - we don't have variants of "Mr" for plumbers, bank managers, or rock stars - despite their very different occupations. Rather, the title is to be used by others when addressing that individual, in order to signify a degree of respect, typically for a particular level of training, qualification and responsibility, or else for a particularly respected position in society. Even the term "mister" is a meaningful sign of respect that historically would not have been as widely applied as it is today - the ratchet of etiquette has gradually eliminated everything below it.

The actual title "Doctor" means "teacher" (from Latin "doceo", "I teach"). This title is more often more relevant to PhDs than MDs, so you probably have your suggested solution backwards. That said, the solution is really neither necessary nor appropriate. Much like "Master" (from Latin "magister", in this case "teacher"), "Doctor" signifies that an individual has not only gained enough competency to practice in a particular field, but has developed enough expertise to instruct others. An individual who is sufficiently qualified to practice but not teach would historically have been known as a "journeyman", roughly equivalent to "professional".

In short "doctor" refers not to a field of expertise, but rather to a level of expertise.

Incidentally, most UK surgeons drop their title of "Dr" and revert to "Mr" after joining the Royal College of Surgeons. I've heard through a friend of at least one surgeon who reacted quite angrily at being addressed as a mere "Dr", which in such circles, due to a collision between traditional titles and modern medical training, could be unkindly translated as "trainee".

• 2 I think the Mr should be spelled out after joining the Royal College of Surgeons ie. Mr.Smith -> Dr.Smith -> Mister Smith –  user288447 Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 16:34
• 7 @user288447, do you have reference? I can't find anything on that. –  DeveloperInDevelopment Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 16:46
• 2 Unfortunately not, it may just have been convention in one hospital that I was in several years ago. –  user288447 Commented Oct 30, 2014 at 10:31

You can't. That's why there are numerous jokes in English-speaking culture about whether someone addressed as "doctor" is a "real" doctor or not. Medical doctors are supposed to be the "real" ones in the jokes.

• 30 Regarding the jokes, I recently heard introducing a speaker (MD) in a conference "and then he became a real doctor when he did his PhD in...". –  Davidmh Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 12:25
• 8 Also: 'not that kind of doctor' –  Cape Code Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 12:53
• 18 According to peoplefinders.com/search/… , there are 2 people named "Doctor Smith" in the US. Do they have PhDs or MDs? I don't know. Their first name is Doctor. –  emory Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 13:46
• 16 @Emory: Following the example of Major Major , they should enroll in a university and see if a computer error will summarily grant them a doctorate. –  Nate Eldredge Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 14:53
• 6 Ironically, it is neither MD's, nor PhD's that are the true, original " Doctors ", but rather DD's. Though try convincing anyone of that today ... –  RBarryYoung Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 19:15

In the United States, in spoken address, both are called "doctor."

For personal correspondence, both are addressed as "Dr." as with an invitation addressed to "Dr. and Mrs. Smith." (Or maybe "Dr. and Mr. Smith." If they both hold doctorates, it is "Drs. Smith." For a couple with different family names, use "Dr. Smith and Mr. Brown.")

For professional correspondence, both are addressed by name and degree, as "James Smith, M.D." or "Bob Brown, Ph.D."

Since the distinction is only relevant in professional interactions, there really isn't any ambiguity.

If you are speaking to a medical doctor professionally, you will know it by the setting, and you still say "doctor." If you ask for medical advice at a cocktail party because someone was introduced as "doctor" you deserve anything you get! I've been known to say, "I'm a college teacher type doctor, not a take-off-your-clothes doctor." That usually sends the message and often gets a laugh.

• 2 I am not a medical doctor, but I often work in hospital settings interacting with both patients and medical doctors so the setting is not always informative. –  StrongBad Commented Oct 31, 2014 at 11:36
• 3 I know a microbiologist and a physicist who work in a hospital. Their degrees appear on their ID badges, as do those of medical doctors. –  Bob Brown Commented Oct 31, 2014 at 11:46
• This was edited by "Anonymous" to introduce irrelevant commentary about women taking husbands' names. The commentary on the edit also incorrectly stated that more women than men earn doctorates. In the United States, at least, that is incorrect. From the 2014 SED: "Overall, women earned 46% of all doctorates in 2014." –  Bob Brown Commented Nov 29, 2016 at 14:24

I have seen the difference in the written form of their name;

One is Name Family, PhD. and other one is Name Family MD.

The same applies to the people holding Engineering doctorates such as Name Family, EngD. or holding doctorate in business such as DBA. Also, in different countries there are usually different doctorate titles ( link ) awarded.

But all of these people are called doctors .

• 1 I've seen it for dentists too. Name Family D.D.S –  jonescb Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 16:53
• @jonescb just look at the link provided in the answer, you can see more than twenty doctorate titles for different countries and different majors... –  enthu Commented Oct 29, 2014 at 16:56

A medical practitioner usually holds a MBBS or MD degree or similar and - at a reasonable level of proficiency - membership of a professional body such as the AMA ( American Medical Association) or the RCP ( Royal College of Physicians) or whatever applies in their part of the world.

A holder of an academic doctorate ( PhD, DrPh, EngD etc) has researched a topic or problem within their specific subject in sufficient depth to have generated fresh insights or made a breakthrough or contributed significant new knowledge to the existing corpus.

Both have earned the right to be addressed as 'Dr'.

However, it would appear to me that one or two posters have been watching a few too many episodes of 'The Big Bang Theory' as I think the need to differentiate between the two very rarely applies except in a medical emergency.

• 1 In hospital settings where patients may be interacting with both medical doctors and academics, there is a need to differentiate. –  StrongBad Commented Oct 31, 2014 at 11:37

While both have the title of "doctor," that is identifying the fact that they both have the same education level, a doctorate.

The meaningful difference here is occupation : one might be a professor, the other a physician.

To differentiate between the two you can use the actual doctorate type or the job title:

• My professor is Dr. Jones. (or) Dr. Jones teaches my class.
• My physician is Dr. Smith.
• Indiana Jones, Ph.D.
• Joe Smith, M.D.

Of course a physician could also be a professor (who teaches in medical school?), or an M.D. might be a researcher who does not treat patients as their primary means of income (i.e. they only deal with patients during the course of medical studies). I do not think you can do much about those cases.

In Germany, it is common to denote the subject area the doctor was obtained in, such as Dr. med. for medical doctors, Dr.-Ing. for engineers, or Dr.-rer-nat. (rerum naturalium) for sciences like chemistry.

The usual practical solution is "ask them."

Doctor means you have a doctorate. Simple as that, a medic can have a doctorate in medicine and thus be a doctor, but if you do not have the degree then you are not a doctor, you can be a surgeon or a licensee of medicine but you are just referred to as doctor out of colloquial use of the title based on historical rots and customs.

There is no difference in spoken address ('Doctor'), but one is a Ph.D. and the other is an M.D.

You can tell from the context, but without the context, you can't. If the context is obviously far removed from anything clinical, such as "Dr. xyz has written a book on archaeology of early Los Angeles", then it's obviously the PhD sense. If it's a clinical setting, including emergencies and simply asking for health advice, basically when someone's health is at stake, then it's obviously the MD sense.

Things can get more ambiguous in biomedical research, because I personally know some MDs (without PhD) doing research instead of practicing medicine, including some molecular biology professors. When a research paper that uses clinical samples says something like, "Samples were obtained after resection from Dr. xyz", then it really can be either MD or PhD or both. Some people in our field have both.

Anyway, I don't make too big a deal out of it because we in California are typically on first name basis outside the clinical setting (this includes medical doctors). When we PhDs and candidates (at least in CA) say "doctor", we also usually mean medical doctors, like in, "Our postdoc health insurance is so bad that I'm terrified of seeing a doctor", where "doctor" obviously doesn't refer to ourselves. Some states, including California, have laws forbidding anyone who is not a medical doctor to advertise themselves as Dr. something in order not to confuse patients.

The confusing aspect is that doctor connotes medical treatment to most people, not a doctoral degree. Anyone smart enough to have a PhD knows the difference. I would not want a PhD doing my surgery, nor an MD teaching me philosophy.

It's not an easy question to answer. Ph.D's who are professors are just called "professor," and research assistants with a Ph.D are called "doctor" by secretaries and students. Titles are never mentioned in academic papers.

It's different with doctors: Patients and nurses call them "doctor;" if they are also professors, which they often are, the are called "professor" since professors have a higher status than mere M.D.s, and when they write papers in medical journals they put M.D. after their names. When practitioners without an M.D. refer to themselves as "doctor" they are just called "frauds."

Things are much more interesting in Germany. I was treated there by a woman doctor in a University Hospital who was also a professor of medicine. Her title was Frau Dr. Med, Dr. Professor Mueller. Some Professors have three degrees, meaning that are called Herr (or Frau) Dr. Dr. Dr. Professor.

• I have never heard medical school Professors introduce themselves to patients as Professor. In the UK holders of a Bachelors in Medical Science (BMedSci) call themselves doctor and it is not fraud. –  StrongBad Commented Oct 31, 2014 at 11:41
• Titles are never mentioned in academic papers — ...in some disciplines. In others, they are mentioned quite prominently. –  JeffE Commented Apr 25, 2015 at 3:43

In French (maybe other latin countries too), but I don't know about English, you can make a small difference by adding ès : Albert Einstein, Docteur ès Physique.

Then twice in a row you have specified that he was a scientific doctor (not a medical one) and his field of research.

• 2 Hi Rucikir, welcome to Academia.SE. Your answer does not really answer the question. Basically you are explaining how to say Albert Einstein, PhD in French, which is not what the OP is asking. –  earthling Commented Oct 30, 2014 at 10:47
• Well, I just didn't know if it could be used in English, apparently not, so it was irrelevant. Thanks for pointing it out. Sorry. But I'm not the only one to have done that, other answer about the German way. –  Antonin Décimo Commented Oct 31, 2014 at 23:53

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Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBMS)

About gsbms, gsbms academics degrees & programs master of science accelerated interdisciplinary biomedical sciences interdisciplinary biomedical sciences clinical laboratory sciences program dental linker program biomedical science & management program doctor of philosophy m.d./ph.d. program program overview course descriptions gsbms catalog gsbms student outcome data gsbms affiliated sites elearning, admissions & financial aid, guaranteed interview agreements, academic calendar, registration, student life, career planning, gsbms alumni profiles, academic regulations, m.d./ph.d. program.

Program Director: Libor Velíšek, M.D., Ph.D. Basic Sciences Building - Room 246 [email protected] (914) 594-4945

Application Deadline Date: November 1st

The combined M.D./Ph.D. program at New York Medical College is intended to provide the opportunity for research-oriented medical students to pursue both these degrees.  The program is designed to allow maximal flexibility for students to integrate the two programs and recruits from the pool of current medical students .

Medical students at NYMC who are interested in research and are seriously considering a career as a physician-scientist should begin research as early as possible, preferably during the summer between the first and second years of medical school.  A Medical Student Research Elective Program, which is funded and administered by the Student Affairs Office of the medical school, provides stipends for this purpose.  This research experience is particularly important in that it will help the student identify a sponsor for their subsequent dissertation research.   Therefore, undertaking this summer research with a member of the Graduate Faculty at NYMC is most strongly recommended.

Students are not formally admitted to the Ph.D. program until they have successfully completed all of the preclinical coursework of the medical curriculum and Part I of the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).  Students having academic difficulty of any sort, including deficiency in a single course, should not participate in dual-degree programs, extracurricular activities that require a significant amount of time expenditure, or gainful employment without discussing the matter with the Dean of Students as well as with the M.D./Ph.D. program director and obtaining approval for such activities.

Medical students interested in the M.D./Ph.D. program are encouraged to begin discussions with the M.D./Ph.D. program director (see the contact below) and program directors in the academic departments of most interest to the student early in their pre-clinical years.  As noted above, a research experience during the summer between years 1 and 2 is of great benefit.  Formal application takes place in the Fall of the student’s second year of medical school, with a complete application due in the Graduate School Admissions office by November 1. A complete application includes two personal statements, transcripts and letters of recommendation (three letters of recommendation must be submitted, in addition to any letters submitted by faculty in the Ph.D. program to which admission is sought).   

In a typical case, the student begins full-time graduate work in the summer following the second year. The course requirements for the Ph.D. are established by the department of the chosen concentration, and generally amount to about 13-18 credits, plus certain non-graded courses such as journal clubs and research seminars. Comprehensive qualifying examinations for the Ph.D. are identical to those given to other Ph.D. students, but may be scheduled after either one or two years of graduate study, depending upon the student’s readiness for the exam. 

The student prepares a dissertation research proposal and undertakes an independent research project, under the supervision of a dissertation advisor and the guidance of a dissertation committee, according to the usual Graduate School rules and procedures. The student’s dissertation committee determines the point where the investigative work is considered complete and the dissertation itself may be written and defended. The return of the M.D./Ph.D. student to the clerkships (SOM) is contingent on the completion of the public defense and submission of the finalized Ph.D. Dissertation. In addition, the student is required to take a clinical skills elective (running in the Spring semester) in the last semester of his/her/their Ph.D. year as a refresher of clinical skills. Once these two conditions are met, the student can apply to the Leave of Absence and Return Committee at the Office of Student Affairs (SOM) to obtain approval for return to clerkships. The Office of Student Affairs and Office of Undergraduate Medical Education together with the M.D./Ph.D. Program Director will additionally work with the student in facilitating the entry to the clinical rotations. 

The program is designed so that both degrees are awarded concurrently by the School of Medicine and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at the time the student completes their entire medical school curriculum.   Financial aid in the form of a full tuition scholarship is provided for graduate school study, and the standard Ph.D. candidate stipend is paid during the period of full-time graduate work.   A summary of the M.D./ Ph.D. program for medical students is as follows:

Note for Admissions : Application to the M.D./Ph.D. program at New York Medical College is distinct from application by Ph.D. candidates wishing to apply to the School of Medicine. A number of students who have completed the Ph.D. at New York Medical College have been accepted to the medical school. The key characteristic of the program described herein is that the admission process for each school is independent. Thus, the admission of a medical student to one of the graduate programs requires approval of the graduate school; likewise, acceptance of graduate students to medical studies requires approval of the medical school. The School of Medicine has established that acceptance of a Ph.D. candidate to the medical school is conditional upon the completion of all Ph.D. requirements.

All interested students should contact the M.D./Ph.D. program director.

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NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS The New York Medical College admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the college. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. See full non-discrimination statement with contact info .

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PhD Full Form: Courses List, Subjects, Colleges [2024]

Muhammad Hasim Sheikh Jul 30, 2024 1.4K Reads

The full form of a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy and it is a doctorate program. The duration to complete the program is a minimum of 3-5 years and you extend up to 7 years. It also stands for DPhil or  D.Phil in some countries. A PhD holder can use the title 'Dr.' before their name.

It's considered the highest level of qualification in many fields. The program involves years of study, research, and publishing work. Completing a PhD typically requires coursework, exams, and a thesis. It usually takes at least three years to complete a PhD.

What is the objective of a PhD Program? 

PhD is a prestigious academic degree offered by universities worldwide. Its main aim is to train the future generation of researchers and scientists.

Students with a PhD have many opportunities in today's world. After earning their degree, they should assess their skills and apply for jobs based on their interests and expertise. Knowing their area of interest helps them find a suitable job.

PhD holders can work as lecturers or professors, in human services, as novelists or writers, journalists, editors, critics, philosophical journalists, researchers, scientists, or independent consultants. They can find roles in various sectors, from finance to the public sector.

What are the Eligibility Criteria to pursue a PhD Program?

To pursue a PhD Program, you must fulfill the eligibility criteria mentioned below :

• To pursue a PhD, a Master's degree in the same field is necessary.
• Some universities may require an MPhil as well.
• Colleges accept candidates who have cleared UGC NET.
• Candidates in Engineering must have a valid GATE score.

What is the UGC-NET Exam? 

The CSIR UGC NET is an entrance exam for Indian nationals to qualify for Junior Research Fellowships and Lectureship or Assistant Professor positions in Indian universities and colleges. Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria set by UGC.

Some of the Important Dates regarding the PhD Entrance Exam are mentioned below :

PhD Entrance Exam Syllabus of Delhi University

The entrance exam of Delhi University for PhD is divided into 2 parts. Each part holds a weightage of 50 percent marks. 

What are those subjects in which PhD degree is offered? 

There are various subjects that can be opted by you if you are thinking of pursuing a PhD program.

Some of those subjects are mentioned below :

• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Biochemistry
• Biotechnology
• Management of Health Care
• Organizational Behavior

What is the admission procedure for a PhD Program?

Follow the simple steps below to learn the admission procedure of a PhD Program :

• Visit the university’s official website and review the PhD course details. Select your research area.
• Watch for admission advertisements in newspapers or on the university's website. Fill out the application form for your chosen course. Admission notifications are usually released 4-5 months before the course starts.
• Fill out and submit your application form as per the institute's schedule. Ensure you pay the application fee on time and submit all required documents.
• Some institutes require a research proposal with the application form. Submit the application form and research proposal to the Research Unit for review.
• After reviewing the applications, institutes shortlist candidates for entrance exams and other admission rounds.
• Candidates selected for PhD programs are assigned supervisors or guides for their research.

What is a PhD Research Proposal? 

A research proposal outlines the direction of your future research, focusing on a research question and a chapter-by-chapter approach to addressing it. In PhD applications, the proposal is evaluated to determine if the project can be completed within three years of full-time research. 

What to include in your Research Proposal? 

• Outline your proposed research topics, considering previous work.
• Highlight your awareness of current debates within the field.
• Demonstrate a suitable level of analysis.
• Identify relevant gaps in current knowledge.
• Suggest a research hypothesis to fill some of these gaps.
• Explain your intended research methodology in detail.
• Discuss the real-world policy implications of your PhD proposal.

What are Some of the popular PhD Programs? 

Some of the popular PhD programs according to the streams are written below. You can choose anyone of your choice. 

What are the types of Research Scholars? 

• Government or Semi-Government Fellowship Recipients :  PhD scholars in this category receive financial assistance through government or semi-government fellowship schemes. 
• Institute Research Scholars with Teaching Assistance :  PhD aspirants in this category receive Institute Teaching Assistantships as specified by the MHRD. Indian Self-financed Candidates: These candidates are admitted to PhD programs based on their track record and experience, but they do not receive financial assistance from the institute. 
• Foreign Self-financed Candidates :   Admission for these candidates is facilitated through their respective country's embassy after obtaining a no-objection certificate from the MHRD and other necessary approvals. 
• Sponsored Candidates :  PhD aspirants sponsored by recognized Research and Development organizations conduct full-time research at the institute. 
• Study Leave Candidates :  These candidates are granted study leave by their government institutes, companies, or educational institutions for research at the specified institute for less than three years. A letter of leave from the candidate's institute or company is required for admission.
• ICCR Awardees :  Foreign candidates sponsored by their governments are awarded PhD seats under the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarship category if they have been awarded the scholarship by their government.

What are the advantages of pursuing a PhD program?

Students with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) have many opportunities. After earning their degree, they should assess their skills and interests to find suitable jobs. Knowing their interests helps in finding a good job.

PhD holders can work as lecturers or professors, in human services, as novelists or writers, journalists, editors, or critics, as philosophical journalists, researchers, scientists, or independent consultants. They can work in finance, public sector, and more.

Stream Wise Syllabus of PhD Program

PhD or Doctor of Philosophy, courses are offered in many fields. Some major streams include Science, Arts and Humanities, and Management. There are many PhD courses available in India. The table below shows the syllabus for some PhD courses by stream:

• Science Stream :  Check the table below to know the topics you will get to learn in the science stream 

• Management Stream :  Check the table below to know the topics you will get to learn in the Management stream 

• Art and Humanities Stream :  Check the table below to know the topics you will get to learn in the Art and Humanities stream

What is the Course Structure of a PhD Program?

• The research proposal and research topic must be submitted by candidates who are chosen for PhD programs. They are then given a research guide or supervisor.
• The coordinator or supervisor of the research program provides information on the courses, assessment procedures, and teaching schedule. Researchers are required to provide progress reports every six months.
• In addition to submitting a certificate to the Research Unit, PhD candidates are required to present in at least two seminars. Before turning in their thesis, they must furthermore present a certificate and at least one research paper that has been published in a peer-reviewed publication.
• The supervisor arranges a seminar before the submission of the thesis. The final thesis must take into account the suggestions for improvement made in this seminar.
• A thesis summary must be sent to the supervisor of the candidate at least forty-five days before the final submission. The thesis is then reviewed by outside specialists in both hard copy and soft copy versions. Should changes be recommended, the candidate is required to submit a revised thesis.
• Candidates present their theses before a panel of experts during a viva voce. A PhD degree is only granted to people who successfully finish all of these processes.

Who should opt for a PhD Program? 

A doctor of philosophy degree is recommended for those who wish to work in academics or research (PhD). A PhD enables people to learn more about a subject they are passionate about. It gives those who deserve it a sense of pride and respect.

Students who are unsure about whether a PhD is suited for them may seek advice from teachers and previous PhD candidates. Understanding what PhD degrees include may be gained by investigating various PhD programs. Students who have a clear comprehension of the framework can decide whether or not to pursue a PhD.

What are the different modes of a PhD Program?

There are different modes of a PhD Program. Some of them are mentioned below  :

Regular PhD Program 

A full-time PhD is a standard Doctor of Philosophy program that lasts about 4 to 6 years. It is the most expensive type of PhD program. Government and semi-government fellowship recipients, institute research scholars with teaching assistance, and self-financed candidates usually prefer full-time PhD programs.

Part-Time PhD Program 

PhD programs can also be done part-time. Candidates working in reputed research organizations, academic institutes, or industries near the campus are usually granted part-time PhDs. A part-time PhD takes 7-8 years to complete, as students must fulfill the same academic credits and requirements as full-time students.

Part-time PhD students attend a limited number of classes. They must have at least 1 year of work experience and an NOC from their employer. Part-time Ph.D. focuses on research that benefits the company rather than individual research.

Online PhD Program 

Online PhD program is not UGC-approved in India and hence it is not offered by any Indian universities but if you are looking out for an option for an Online PhD program, you can opt for its alternative and that alternative is an Online DBA.

It is also a doctorate program and it can be done online without visiting college daily. Moreover, it also adds up the “Dr” title before your name. There are various universities offering you an Online DBA. Some of them are mentioned below 

Colleges offering a PhD Program 

There are various government and private colleges offering you a PhD Program. Some of them are mentioned below :

• Government Colleges :  Fees of government colleges are still less expensive than in comparison to private colleges. 

• Private Colleges :  The fees of private colleges are a little high in comparison to the government colleges fees.

NOTE - It is advised that you must check the fees before enrolling as fees change from time to time.  

What is the career scope after completing a PhD Program? 

Once you complete a PhD program, you can apply to various job roles. Moreover, the “Dr” title will be added to your name.

Some of the job roles are mentioned below :

• Research Scientist (Government/Private Institutions)
• University Professor/Lecturer
• Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc)
• Science/Research Consultant
• Science Writer/Editor
• Data Scientist (Industry)
• Product Manager (Industry)

Check the table below to know the average salaries earned by the graduates of the program :

The average salary that you can earn after completing the program is INR 4,00,000 - INR 10,00,000. Salaries also depend upon factors such as location, company, experience, knowledge, and many more. It is to be noted that in some countries Doctor of Literature is considered above than PhD program. 

Moreover, various top recruiters hire you once you complete your program. Moreover, the salaries of graduates of a PhD program according to the cities are mentioned below. 

Can I apply for a PhD without relevant qualifications?

If you lack the necessary qualifications for a PhD, you might still qualify by meeting additional requirements set by your chosen institution. These requirements could include extra study or passing a qualifying exam.

Alternatively, you might make a special case to your institution based on non-degree professional qualifications or significant practical experience, or foreign qualifications.

Special case PhD applications will need strong support from your potential supervisor, so seek their advice and backing before applying in this manner.

Is there a Degree higher than a Ph.D? 

Some degrees are considered higher than a PhD and are awarded for significant contributions in specific fields. These are common in UK and some European universities, often given as honorary degrees in the US.

Higher doctorate degrees include -

• Doctor of Science (DS/SD) :  Given for significant contributions to scientific knowledge beyond a PhD.
• Doctor of Literature/Letters (DLit/DLitt/LitD) :  Awarded for achievements in humanities or creative arts.
• Doctor of Divinity (DD)  : Recognizes ministry-oriented accomplishments, higher than a Doctor of Theology.
• Doctor of Music (DMus)  : Awarded based on a substantial portfolio of compositions or scholarly publications on music.
• Doctor of Civil Law (DCL) :  Among the highest doctorates, granted for exceptional and original contributions to law or politics.

PhDs through M.Phil

Potential PhD candidates have the option to apply as general research students or for an MPhil degree. The MPhil is an advanced master’s degree awarded for research, suitable for students without a strong research background.

Candidates may need to take taught courses to learn research methods. Completion of a one-year taught program may lead to an MRes degree, with more taught components than the MPhil.

MRes can be awarded instead of a PhD if the required period of study for a PhD is not completed. Completion of original research may lead to the award of the MPhil degree without defending the dissertation.

After the first or second year of research (during MPhil), if the institution is satisfied with progress, candidates can apply for full PhD registration. Supervisor or tutor determines readiness to progress to a PhD. Candidates develop a thesis title and choose a PhD program if deemed ready.

Conclusion 

The full form of a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy and it is a doctorate program. The duration to complete the program is a minimum of 3-5 years and you extend up to 7 years. It also stands for DPhil or  D.Phil in some countries. A PhD holder can use the title 'Dr.' before their name. Moreover, if you want to pursue an Online PhD that is not approved by the UGC (University Grants Commission) you can opt for its alternative which is an Online DBA. It stands for Doctor of Business Administration and it is also a doctorate program and adds up the “Dr” title before your name. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

⭐ will i be paid for phd.

A lot of doctoral schools do provide stipends. Amounts are degree-specific. NET JRF qualifying recipients receive INR 31,000 from the University Grants Commission each month.

⭐ What distinguishes a doctorate in the social sciences from one in the sciences?

A PhD in the social sciences is qualitative, such as in history and sociology. Science PhDs, such as those in chemistry and physics, are quantitative and need experimentation.

⭐ What qualifications are needed to become a professor?

A PhD from an accredited university and a minimum of ten years of teaching experience are prerequisites. Strong research abilities and published work are also requirements.

⭐ What kinds of jobs are available to those who complete a PhD?

You can pursue post-doctoral research, work in academia or research, or work as a consultant for think tanks and non-governmental organizations.

⭐ What is the full form for a PhD?

A PhD stands for a doctorate in philosophy.

⭐ Is someone with a PhD a doctor?

A doctorate degree does entitle you to use the title doctor “Dr”. 

⭐ Can I pursue a PhD right after completing 12th grade?

A master's degree is required in order to pursue a PhD.

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Graduate and medical students form science policy and communication group focused on Alzheimer's disease research

Ben Middelkamp Apr 08, 2024

From left to right, Soumilee Chadhuri, Sára Nemes and Valerie Dorsant-Ardon are executive members of IMPACT Indiana.

Soumilee Chaudhuri describes her training at Indiana University School of Medicine as “hardcore biomedical science.” She works with complex data, statistics and brain scans in her study of how vascular risk factors affect racially diverse Alzheimer’s disease patients.

While much of her study dives into the details, Chaudhuri, a PhD candidate in the Medical Neuroscience Graduate Program , doesn’t lose sight of why the research matters.

That’s why she and a group of her peers — doctoral and medical students — at IU School of Medicine and Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine founded a group centered on health policy and science communication, specifically focusing on Alzheimer’s disease research.

The group, called the Initiative for Mobilizing Public health Advocacy, Care, and Translational research for Alzheimer’s disease in Indiana, or IMPACT Indiana , aims to bridge the gap between Alzheimer’s disease scientific research in the lab and engagement with Indiana public officials and community leaders about the implications of their research on public policy.

“I have always wanted to keep in touch with people, tell people what I'm doing as a scientist, and essentially just explain to my grandma what my science means,” Chaudhuri said.

The group is also hosting its inaugural IMPACT Indiana Symposium on April 22 in the IU Health Neuroscience Center auditorium. Jared Brosch, MD , associate professor of clinical neurology, will give the keynote speech about clinical updates on lecanemab, a first-of-its-kind Food and Drug Administration-approved Alzheimer’s disease treatment . Laura Aust, advocacy manager for the Greater Indiana Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, will speak about how young scientists can engage with the public about their Alzheimer’s disease research.

Chaudhuri, a member of the laboratory of Andrew Saykin, PsyD , director of the Center for Neuroimaging and the , and Kwangsik Nho, PhD , associate professor of radiology and imaging sciences, presented her research at the Indiana Science Communication Day in 2023, and it was through that experience discussing health policy with peers and meeting lawmakers that prompted her to create IMPACT Indiana.

She later connected with trainees at IU School of Medicine and Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine who also were interested in health policy to build a team of learners.

“We work on different pieces of the same puzzle with the overall goal of understanding Alzheimer’s disease,” Chaudhuri said.

“We want to be able to tell people about our research,” Chaudhuri said. “A lot of people came out to the science communications day to talk about their research, and they were not just Alzheimer's researchers. There was research about nuclear power. There was research about chemistry. All of us cared, and that's what bonded us together.”

Nemes studies early-onset Alzheimer’s disease research in the laboratory of Liana Apostolova, MD, MS , an Indiana University Distinguished Professor and the Barbara and Peer Baekgaard Professor in Alzheimer's Disease Research. Before she started graduate school, Nemes worked at the Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and became involved with the center’s Community Advisory Board , which aims to reach underrepresented groups in Indianapolis, specifically the African American community, to educate about dementia care and research.

Now as a graduate student, Nemes is still involved with the board and community initiatives.

“I think it's really important not to lose that perspective and to understand that behind every number, behind every image, behind every single data point, is a real human with a profound story,” Nemes said. “The work and the analysis we're doing is going to tangibly touch people in the future and hopefully improve their lives.”

In addition to communicating their research with lawmakers, patients, caregivers and other members of the community, Chaudhuri and Nemes said IMPACT Indiana hopes to improve equity in research among diverse and underrepresented communities with dementia by starting and continuing conversations about translational research and public policy.

“It’s perfectly logical and understandable why people who are most deeply impacted by that insidious history would have that degree of mistrust,” Nemes said. “It’s through their leadership and voices and empowering and engaging with these communities who have been hurt and marginalized that we can rebuild those bridges and create research that is more accessible and equitable and positive as we move forward.”

As IMPACT Indiana continues to grow, Chaudhuri and Nemes said they’re hoping to develop and maintain a solid membership base at IU and other institutions across Indiana, recruiting students and faculty from diverse disciplines, such as geriatric specialists, social workers, occupational therapists, physical therapists and speech-language pathologists, and from any career level — high school, undergraduate, graduate, early-career or established faculty.

“As one of my favorite physicians, Jason Karlawish, MD, says in his book, “The Problem with Alzheimer’s” — Alzheimer’s disease is not just a neurodegenerative disease, but a social, cultural, and political problem,” Chaudhuri said. “We need multidisciplinary expertise to solve this.”

Ben Middelkamp

Ben Middelkamp is a communications manager for the Department of Neurology, Department of Neurological Surgery and Stark Neurosciences Research Institute at Indiana University School of Medicine. Before joining the Office of Strategic Communications in December 2019, Ben spent nearly six years as a newspaper reporter in two Indiana cities. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Convergent Journalism from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2014. Ben enjoys translating his background in journalism to the communications and marketing needs of the school and its physicians and researchers.

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Ph.D (Doctor of Philosophy): Course Details, Eligibility, Duration, Fees

PhD is a doctoral program that deals with a variety of research methods and specializations including English, Microbiology, Psychology, and more. PhD duration in India is 3-5 years which depends on the coursework completion by the student. Ph.D. graduates primarily work as Consultants, Researchers, Professors, and R&D Industry Experts.

Table of Contents

About phd course, who should pursue phd course , phd eligibility criteria, phd admission process, phd entrance exam, phd fees structure, integrated phd, phd courses, categories of phd candidates, top phd colleges in india, phd in india, syllabus and subjects for phd, phd course comparison, salary of a phd graduate, career options after doctor of philosophy course, phd scholarships, skills that make you the best phd graduate, phd course details.

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy, which is a high-level academic program that involves in-depth study and research in a specific field of study. The average PhD fee is in the range of INR 30,000–3 LPA .

PhD course duration is 3-5 years . The PhD syllabus includes core subjects such as research methodology, understanding of literature review, and other related topics.

PhD Admission requires students to have a 50-55% aggregate in postgraduation and qualifying entrance exams such as CSIR NET, GATE, UGC NET , etc. The PhD job scope is vast, where graduates are involved in developing new technologies or products, working on research projects with universities or organizations, etc.

Why Choose PhD Course?

PhD is one of the most prestigious degrees that a student can pursue. With the recent focus by the government to encourage research education in the country, a PhD degree is considered the most viable option.

To gain a deeper insight into "Why to choose a PhD," below are a few points listed:

• A PhD degree offers various career opportunities in research, academia, or other specialized areas of work.
• There has been an increase of 13.7% in enrollment in PhD from the previous year.
• The advancement of technology has made it easier for students to access research resources and collaborate with researchers from other countries.
• The Indian government has taken several initiatives to support and promote PhD courses in India such as MERU, IMPRINT, Prime Minister Research Fellowship, Global Initiative of Academic Networks, etc.

Read More:   PhD Jobs and scope

Before deciding whether to pursue a PhD course, it is important to understand the alignment between individual expectations and course offerings. Below is a general overview of aspirants that can pursue the PhD course:  

• A PhD qualification is for those who have a strong academic background and an interest in a career in academia or research, pursuing a PhD program is a wise choice.
• Individuals who enjoy the process of exploring new ideas, theories, and concepts in their field of study are well-suited for a PhD degree.
• Those who are interested in a career in teaching, research, or consulting in their field of study should consider pursuing a doctor of philosophy course.

The basic PhD eligibility criteria is common for most of the colleges. Given below are the PhD requirements enlisted as common criteria by various colleges for admission to PhD program:

• Candidates who have completed their postgraduation from an accredited university with a minimum of 50-55%  aggregate marks are eligible to apply for PhD course.
•  A candidate is required to clear cutoffs for entrance exams such as UGC NET, GATE, CSIR NET, BHU RET, etc as per the college requirement.
• Some universities may also require relevant work experience in the field of research to which the candidate is applying.
• There is no upper age limit to enroll in the course.

The admissions to the PhD course can be done through both online  and  offline  methods. PhD admission in India is also available from the website or by directly visiting the college's admissions office. 

Listed below is the PhD admission process in general:

• PhD registration can be carried out through online and offline methods.
• Students need to visit the website college to check for entrance exams.
• If any entrance exam is conducted, the candidate needs to qualify. 
• Once the merit list is published, candidates need to sit for a counseling session.
• Upload the necessary documents   and pay the PhD admission fees.

Read More:   PhD Admission

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy and it is one of the prestigious courses to pursue to enhance skills and develop expertise. PhD admission is based on entrance exams held at the national, state, or institute level. Below mentioned is the list of PhD entrance exam :

• BARC PhD Admission Test
• ICMR Junior Research Fellowships
• DBT Biotechnology Eligibility Test
• BINC Examination
• BITS PhD Entrance Examination

State-level PhD Entrance Exams

Some entrance exams are conducted at state levels which can grant a candidate wishing to pursue PhD degree at the university of their choice. Here is a list regarding the information on PhD entrance exam state-wise :

A Quick Glance at the PhD Entrance Exams

The PhD eligibility criteria of the above-mentioned entrance exams are entirely dependent on the conduction body; hence it varies. While the format of the entrance exams varies on the specialization, as each college or subject has its own governing body.

Below listed are some of the general guidelines for the PhD entrance exam:

• The exam pattern includes logical, reasoning, and knowledge-based questions. The mode of the test will be both online and offline.
• The paper is MCQ based.
• The exam is divided into common and subject-specific sections.
• The syllabus, mode of examination, and question pattern may change according to a university/conduction body.
• There is no negative marketing.

PhD Entrance Exam Syllabus

PhD exam syllabus helps the candidates to prepare for the exam by delivering the necessary knowledge and information about the exam pattern. The syllabus varies according to the PhD specialisation chosen by the student such as Management, Commerce, Education , etc. Below given is the common syllabus for the common paper:

• Research Methodology
• Indian Logic
• Logical Reasoning
• Mathematics
• Verbal Reasoning
• People Development & Environment

Read More on PhD Entrance Exam Syllabus

The average PhD fees ranges from INR 30,000 - 3 LPA . The PhD course fees, however, vary as per the institute concerned according to its prestige, infrastructure, faculty, etc. Below is a list of colleges with respective fee structures:

Traditional academic study and professional practice are both combined as part of a form of a doctoral program known as an integrated PhD.

Integrated PhD programs frequently combine coursework, research, and professional experience to allow students the opportunity to get a thorough understanding of their topic.  Below mentioned are details of the Integrated PhD course:

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy and the course duration is between 3 - 5 years, depending on the specialization students decide to pursue. In India, the PhD course provides excellent exposure to multiple opportunities and qualifies them to work in their respective research areas either in India or abroad.

Listed below are some of the top PhD specialization:

• PhD in Economics
• PhD in Computer Science
• PhD in Philosophy
• PhD in Psychology
• PhD in English

Other popular PhD course specializations are listed below:

Doctor of Philosophy courses are highly valued by employers and are essential for careers in academia and research. A student can pursue a PhD degree in various streams according to their experience, interest and, future scope.

Below is a list of the various streams in which PhD degree is available:

PhD Courses in Science 

PhD course in the Science stream aims to prepare students for careers in academia or industry, where they can apply their scientific knowledge and research skills to solve real-world problems with specialization in chemistry, botany, bioscience, etc.

Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD degree in Science:

• PhD in Mathematics
• PhD in Chemistry
• PhD in Physics
• PhD in Biotechnology
• PhD in Zoology
• PhD in Clinical Research
• PhD in Bioinformatics
• PhD in Applied Sciences
• PhD in Mathematical and Computational Sciences
• PhD in Bioscience
• PhD in Basic and Applied Science
• PhD in Environmental Science and Technology
• PhD in Botany
• PhD in Applied Chemistry and Polymer Technology

PhD Courses in Humanities and Social Science

Doctor of Philosophy course in Humanities and Social Science aims to develop the student's ability to conduct original research and to produce new insights into the social and cultural aspects of life. Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD degree in Humanities and Social Science:

• PhD in Political Science
• PhD in English
• PhD in Psychology
• PhD in Sociology
• PhD in History
• PhD in Geography
• PhD in Social Work
• PhD in Public Policy
• PhD in International Relations and Policies
• PhD in Arts 
• PhD in Humanities and Social Science
• PhD in Public and Economic Policy
• PhD in Life Science

PhD Courses in Engineering

The PhD course in Engineering aims to develop the student's ability to create innovative solutions to complex engineering problems with specializations such as civil engineering, genetic engineering, etc.

Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD degree in Engineering:

• PhD in Engineering
• PhD in Production Engineering 
• PhD in Information Technology
• PhD in Chemical Engineering 
• PhD in Quantitative Techniques
• PhD in Ceramic Engineering
• PhD in Computer Science Engineering
• PhD in Civil Engineering
• PhD in Mechanical Engineering
• PhD in Genetic Engineering
• PhD in Aeronautical and Automobile Engineering
• PhD in Marine Biotechnology

PhD Courses in Commerce

PhD programs in commerce are designed to equip students for careers in academia or research, where they can use their knowledge of research, analysis, and innovation to solve challenging problems in the fields of business and commerce.

Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD degree in Commerce:

• PhD in Commerce
• PhD in Finance
• PhD in Statistics
• PhD in Accountancy
• PhD in Commerce Management
• PhD in Business Economics
• PhD in Commerce and Management
• PhD in Accounting and Financial Management

PhD Courses in Business Management

The PhD programs in Business Management seek to develop highly qualified researchers who can contribute significantly to the business community, academia, and society by tackling the complex problems and difficulties that face organizations and economies around the globe.

Below is a list of subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD course in Business Management:

• PhD in HR Management
• PhD in Marketing
• PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
• PhD in Management
• PhD in Operations Management
• PhD in Organisational Behaviour
• PhD in Business Administration
• PhD in Renewable Energy
• PhD in Aviation Management
• PhD in Disaster Management

PhD Courses in Law

The goal of the PhD in law programme is to give students advanced training in legal analysis and study techniques. Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD course in Law:

• PhD in Legal Studies
• PhD in Law and Governance
• PhD in Constitutional Law
• Doctor of Law

PhD Courses in Medicine

The Doctor of Philosophy course in medicine is designed to challenge students to think critically about medical issues and to develop the ability to analyze complex medical problems. The subject areas include radiology, pathology, neuroscience , and among others.

Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD degree in Medicine:

• PhD in Physiotherapy
• PhD in Medicine
• PhD in Physiology
• PhD in Radiology
• PhD in Hospital Administration
• PhD in Medical Physics 
• PhD in Immunology
• PhD in Pathology
• PhD in Neurosciences
• PhD in Paramedical 
• Doctor of Medicine in Homoeopathy
• Doctor of Medicine in Forensic Medicine
• Doctor of Medicine in Cardiology
• Doctor of Medicine in Biochemistry

PhD Courses in Pharmacy

The PhD courses in Pharmacy's objective is to create highly qualified and knowledgeable individuals who can apply their knowledge in the workplace and make significant contributions to the field of pharmacy through study and teaching.

Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD degree in Pharmacy:

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Science
• PhD in Pharmacology
• PhD in Pharmaceutics 
• PhD in Medical Chemistry
• PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry

PhD Courses in Agriculture

The PhD courses in Agriculture seek to create creative answers to the current problems in agriculture, such as food security, climate change, and resource sustainability.

Below is a list of the subject areas in which a student can pursue PhD course in Agriculture:

• PhD in Horticulture
• PhD in Agronomy
• PhD in Agricultural Economics
• PhD in Plant Pathology

There are various categories of students who pursue PhD. Below is a list of PhD Candidates: 

• Full-Time Research Scholars: A full-time search A scholar is someone who is enrolled in a PhD programme and is devoting their full time to completing the degree requirements.
• Part-Time Research Scholars:  Applicants interested in working as part-time science staff at the institute can apply in one of the following categories:
• External Sponsored Candidates
• Self-Financed: Candidates in this category go through the normal admissions process but do not receive any financial assistance from universities.
• Sponsored: The candidates are awarded based on their merit and offered full sponsorship by Research & Development organizations to conduct research. 
• Govt. /Semi Govt. Fellowship Scheme:  The candidates are granted a fellowship by the government and hence get financial assistance through the government. 
• Study Leave Candidates: The candidates are granted three years of leave by the government/research institutes/companies to conduct research at specific institutes.
• ICCR Awardees:  Indian Council of Cultural Relations awardees, are sponsored by their respective state governments. 

Below is the list of the 10 best PhD Colleges in India:

Top PhD Colleges in Chennai

The following are the top PhD colleges in Chennai:

Top PhD Colleges in Mumbai

The following are the top PhD colleges in Mumbai:

Top PhD Colleges in Hyderabad

The following are the top PhD colleges in Hyderabad:

Top PhD Colleges in Bangalore

The top PhD colleges in Bangalore are as follows:

Top PhD Colleges in Delhi

The following are the best PhD colleges in Delhi:

Top PhD Colleges in Kolkata

The best PhD colleges in Kolkata are listed below:

Top PhD Government Colleges

Several government-funded colleges offer PhD in various courses across various streams. The PhD fees in India in government colleges range between INR 10,000-72,000 PA . Here is a tabular list of the top PhD government colleges in India:

Top PhD Private Colleges

Prestigious private institutes are spread all across India offering PhD courses. Below is a table of the top private colleges offering PhD in India:

The number of PhD applicants and students in India has been steadily increasing, indicating a positive growth trend for pursuing a PhD. Below mentioned are PhD course details of top colleges in India:

IIT Bombay PhD

IIT Bombay is one of India's best institutions to pursue a PhD. There are 35 programs in total, and applicants can specialize in any of them. Admission to the PhD programs is through a rigorous selection process that includes clearing the required cut-off for the entrance exam and clearing an interview.

Below is the table for PhD admission process:

IIT Bombay PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More:   IIT Bombay PhD

IIT Delhi PhD

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi is one of the twenty-three IITs created to be centers of excellence for research, training, and development in science, engineering, and technology in India. IIT Delhi offers over 25 specialization options for PhD degree.

IIT Delhi PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More:   IIT Delhi PhD

IIT Madras PhD

IIT Madras is considered one of the premier institutes for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in India. The admission process is highly competitive, and candidates need to have an excellent academic record and research experience to be considered for admission.

IIT Madras PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More:  IIT Madras PhD

IIT Indore PhD

The highly regarded PhD course at IIT Indore offers students a great platform to explore their research interests and grow as successful researchers in their discipline. Additionally, the institute offers few PhD candidates financial aid in the form of research assistantships and other fellowships.

IIT Indore PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More:  IIT Indore PhD

IISC Bangalore PhD

One of India's top research universities, IISc Bangalore, offers a highly regarded PhD program in a variety of subjects, including engineering, science, humanities, and social sciences.

The PhD programs at IISc Bangalore are created to give students the chance to cooperate with business partners and some of the top researchers in their respective domains. Below is the table for PhD admission process:

IISc Bangalore PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More:  IISC Bangalore PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy courses offered by IGNOU are well-organized, and adaptable, and give students the assistance and resources they need to thrive in their chosen academic or research fields. A variety of online and offline delivery methods are used to provide the courses.

IGNOU PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More:  IGNOU PhD

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University provides a range of PhD programs in fields like law, business, engineering, and the humanities. The college also offers students to apply for PhD scholarships such as the Earn and Learn Scheme, EBC, Maulana Azad National Fellowship, and Merit Scholarship of the University.

Read More: BAMU PhD

Amity University PhD

Amity University, Noida is a well-known institute with campuses throughout India. Without a doubt, pursuing a doctoral program here is something to think about. The university offers over 70 different doctoral programs. 

Amity University PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More:  Amity University PhD

JNU, or Nehru University, is one of India's best universities, particularly for studies where students have the chance to work with experts from different countries and conduct interdisciplinary research.  A variety of integrated courses are also available through JNU, including MPhil-PhD, MTech-PhD , and MSc-PhD . 

JNU PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More: JNU PhD

Delhi University or DU is one of the best colleges in Delhi, as well as in overall India. The university is renowned for its research and teaching excellence, and its faculty members are highly qualified and experienced

DU PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More: DU PhD

Gujarat Technical University or GTU offers various range of PG and Doctoral Programs to students with research and teaching opportunities, such as seminars and workshops, which can help students gain a deeper understanding of their chosen field.

GTU PhD courses are offered in various specializations as mentioned below:

Read More: GTU PhD

The course and subjects for a PhD degree depend on the specialization aspirants decide to pursue.  Listed below are some common PhD subjects that students, regardless of their chosen stream, will get a chance to study: 

• Ethics of Interviewing for a Research Course
• How to Write a Research Proposal
• Introduction to Social Media as a Research Tool

Read More: PhD Syllabus and Subjects

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy, it is one of the highest degrees a student can pursue. PhD duration is 3-5 years and throughout the tenure, the aim is to develop an in-depth understanding of students related to theories, research techniques, and most recent developments in their field of study. There are also other courses for students that offer similar career opportunities to students.

MPhil vs PhD

The table below shows the difference between MPhil and PhD:

The table below shows the difference between MBA and PhD:

The table below shows the difference PhD and MD:

PhD graduate salary is influenced by various factors such as experience, skills, industry outlook, etc. According to Glassdoor, a PhD graduate's average salary is INR 6 LPA in India. The individual can increase their compensation by working on the above factors and keep on learning as per the job dynamics.

Read More:   PhD Salary

A Doctor of Philosophy graduate has a broad spectrum of lucrative employability opportunities in a wide variety of industries and areas of employment, such as:

• Learning Counsel
• Research Scientist

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy and the aim of the course is to enhance the research in the country for which the government has taken various initiatives in the field of education and research to provide scholarships to students.

Below is a list of some of the PhD Scholarship: 

• National Fellowship for ST students
• National Fellowship (NF) for OBC students
• UGC NET Fellowship
• Maulana Azad National Fellowship
• ICSSR Research Fellowship
• Two fellowships instituted by Research Center on Rural Problem
• Two fellowships instituted by VasantraoNaik Research Centre
• Earn and Learn Scheme
• University Scholar Fellowship, Shetkari & Shetmajur Palya Scholar Fellowship

Read More: PhD Scholarships

PhD graduates need to have skills to help them succeed in their professional lives. After they have completed their research, aspirants will need these skills to ensure that they succeed in their workplace. Some of these skills include:

• Quantitative Analysis Skills
• Research Skills
• Analytical Skills
• The Ability to Work Under Pressure
• Interpersonal Skills

Top PhD [Doctor of Philosophy] Colleges

Chennai,Tamil Nadu

IISc Bangalore

Bangalore,Karnataka

Mumbai,Maharashtra

Delhi,Delhi NCR

Kanpur,Uttar Pradesh

IIT Kharagpur

Kharagpur,West Bengal

IIT Roorkee

Roorkee,Uttarakhand

IIT Guwahati

Guwahati,Assam

PhD Fee Structure

Is PhD a good career choice?

Yes PhD is a good choice for candiates who wants to work in research, academia, or other specialized areas of work.

What are the jobs after PhD in India?

After completing PhD graduates can work as consultants, researchers, professors, and R&D industry experts in India.

What are the PhD benefits in India?

A PhD program is a great opportunity to advance your education and job opportunities in India with increasing government focus to encourage researches in India in coming time. Having a PhD can have a variety of advantages, including expanding your access to higher-level research opportunities and raising your income potential.

What is a PhD Fellowship?

A PhD Fellowship is a type of grant awarded to individuals who are pursuing a doctoral degree. The fellowship often pays for tuition, fees, and a living allowance, freeing up students to concentrate on their research and studies without having to worry about money.

What is the full form of PhD?

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy.

What is PhD age limit in India?

There is no upper age limit to enrol in PhD in India.

Is GATE mandatory for PhD after MTech?

After obtaining an MTech, GATE scores are practically necessary for admission to doctoral programs, notably at IITs and NITs. Also some of the Indian universities and institutions conduct their own PhD entrance exam for admission.

Can I do PhD after graduation?

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Racked by Pain and Enraptured by a Right-Wing Miracle Cure

With Patriot Party News, Michael Chesebro found a sense of community, and a place where conspiracy theories could become real in the form of the “medbed.”

By Eli Saslow

Michael Chesebro awoke to the same reality as he did each morning, with pain radiating up his spine and into his shoulders before he opened his eyes. He remained still for a moment, summoning the courage to reach from his bed to his night stand. He rolled onto his back, which was fused together with metal after almost 20 years as a paratrooper in the military. He extended his arm, which he had broken several times while wrangling bulls and horses on his ranch outside Cheyenne, Wyo. Finally, his hand found his cellphone, and he logged on to the online universe where he spent most of his days.

Listen to this article with reporter commentary

“How’re we all doing this morning?” asked Michael, 63. “I’m hurting again — too much time spent jumping out of perfectly good airplanes.”

“You served our country well,” a retired teacher from Kansas responded.

“Hang in there, patriot,” a truck driver in Texas said. “Remember, the pain’s only real if you believe in it.”

“Distract me,” Michael said. “What part of our country is falling apart today?”

On the other end of his phone were hundreds of people in a live voice chat for Patriot Party News, one of about a dozen far-right media platforms that has grown in both size and influence over the past few years, not only by creating an ecosystem of disinformation but also by providing an authentic sense of community. The company was co-founded in 2020 by Warren Armour, a conservative with no media experience who runs a flooring company in Tennessee, but Michael admired the Patriot Party News slogan when he first saw it shared on Facebook last year: “If you hate mainstream media, you are going to love us!”

Michael started watching the site’s daily videos about election fraud and vaccine pseudoscience, some of which have now been viewed more than a million times. He signed up for the company’s social media platform and paid $8.99 a month to join the audio channel, which functions like an old ham radio and promised him the chance to “meet comrades in our battle for the soul of America.”

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