Meaning of PhD degree

Meaning of PhD degree is hidden under the abbreviation PhD, which can be deciphered as Doctor of Philosophy. PhD is taken from the Latin and the meaning of PhD degree is PhilosophiƦ Doctor. In the beginning, meaning of PhD degree implied the degree granted by a university to a scientist who achieved impressive results in the field of philosophy. The word “Doctor” in Latin means “Teacher” and describes a person devoted to study, knowledge, and knowledge sharing.

A PhD is the highest academic degree and it takes several years to achieve it depending on the speciality. Obtaining PhD degree presupposes teaching students and performing independent research in the chosen field. The training must be crowned by presenting and defending a dissertation or thesis. The dissertation must contain the results of new and original research that deepens the knowledge in the chosen field and shows the candidate’s ability to carry out independent investigations.

For ordinary people the meaning of PhD degree is associated with a learned person who devoted his life to research work in a particular area and demonstrated superior understanding of his subject.

Historical aspects of meaning of PhD degree

The degree became known in the 19th century due to Friedrich Wilhelm University. PhD degree was granted to scientists who had carried out outstanding research in their fields. Then PhD degree spread to the USA Yale University and later to the United Kingdom.

Meaning of PhD degree nowadays

Historically, meaning of PhD degree encompassed teaching in the universities. At the present time being a lecturer is not the only meaning of PhD degree, because PhD degree presupposes broader career possibilities and people with PhD degree do not necessary practice academic teaching. The main meaning of PhD degree is that the person understands his subject to the limits of present knowledge and can expand these boundaries.

Advantages of PhD degree

Those who want to achieve PhD degree must at first have an undergraduate degree and then get a masters degree. Finally, it is necessary to write a thesis for PhD degree and defend it in front of a panel of professors. The degree is a frequent requirement for employment as a university lecturer or researcher. Thus, PhD degree allows performing research and teaching activity. The title Dr is added to the name of PhD degree bearer.