Honorary Doctorate PhD Degree Explained: Types, Eligibility [2024], How to Get It?

An honorary doctorate degree is a prestigious program in higher education and it is a doctorate program. It's given to working professionals who have made big contributions to their discipline.

Understanding the way to acquire an honorary doctorate allows you to gain a reputation for your achievements. In this article, we’ll explore how to get an honorary doctorate degree and what the standards are for receiving one.

A regular doctorate degree can be used for academic advancement, such as pursuing higher courses like a Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) or a Doctor of Science (D.Sc). However, an Honorary Doctorate is more of a status symbol.

It cannot be used for promotions, salary increases, or similar professional advancements. Also Read | What Is Doctoral Degree? 

What Is an Honorary Doctorate Degree?

An honorary doctorate is a degree granted by a university that does not have the usual requirements. Unlike a regular doctorate, which you earn by completing a specific educational program, honorary doctorates are awarded to people who have made outstanding contributions to a profession or society and universities often award these degrees in recognition of achievement and influence.

Who Is eligible to apply? 

To apply for an Honorary Doctorate Degree, you must fulfill the mentioned below eligibility criteria:

• Candidates must be Indians.
• Must possess a valid government-approved Indian identity card.
• The minimum qualification for applying should be graduation from any university in India or abroad.

1) Significant Contribution: To be eligible for an honorary doctorate, a candidate must have made a significant contribution to a particular field or country. It could be technological breakthroughs, outstanding publications, humanitarian efforts, public service, or other influential projects.

2) Public Recognition: Candidates usually have prior national or international recognition. This can be through awards, honors, or outstanding accomplishments that have been recognized by the public.

3) Alignment with university values: Universities often consider how well a candidate’s achievement aligns with the institution’s values. For example, a university that focuses on environmental sustainability may want to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental protection.

4) Advocacy and influence: Candidates who have demonstrated leadership in advocating for important issues or influencing policy or social norm change are also eligible.

Related Programmes
Global PhD Programs	PhD After MBA
Doctorate for Working Professionals	Pre Doctoral Program Online
Part Time PhD Programs	PhD Distance Learning
PhD Online	MBA DBA Dual Programs
PhD Abroad	Global DBA
Doctorate Degree Online	DBA Doctorate Online

What Are The Eligibility Criteria For An Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

Each university has its own standards for awarding an honorary doctorate, but some general guidelines include:

• Not a Current Employee or Officer: The recipient must not be a current University employee or an elected or appointed official. Former employees or executives may be eligible after retirement or retirement.
• No Admission Fees: The recipient generally accepts an honorary doctorate without any income, such as speaker fees. Universities usually select applicants by registration.
• No contact- The recipient must have no conflict of interest with the University. For example, if a candidate’s actions or views could be considered to be in conflict with the university’s principles.
• Strong reputation: The recipient usually has a strong academic or professional reputation. They have been recognized for their important contributions and often still have active jobs.

How to prepare for an application for an Honorary Doctorate?

There are only three steps to prepare your application. You can check the steps below :

• Step 1: Research and Choose the Right UniversitiesStart by finding universities that offer honorary doctorates, especially those that value contributions in your field. Look at their guidelines carefully, as the criteria and application processes can vary.
• Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Put together a detailed application package. This should include:

• A full professional biography
• A list of your achievements, publications, awards, and recognitions
• Letters of recommendation from respected peers
• A statement showing how your work aligns with the university's values

Make sure to customize each application to match the university’s mission and values.

• Step 3: Submit the NominationSome universities accept self-nominations, while others require someone else to nominate you. This could be an academic peer, a professional colleague, or someone in a leadership position who knows your work and character. Make sure to follow the specific submission process for each institution.

How you can navigate your application process? 

• Step 4: Review by the CommitteeAfter submitting your application, it will be reviewed by the university’s honorary degree committee. They will carefully evaluate your contributions and see how they match the university's criteria for honorary degrees.
• Step 5: Verification and InterviewsSome universities might ask for additional verification of your achievements or request an interview. This interview can be in-person or virtual and is more common for international nominees to ensure all information is accurate.
• Step 6: Decision and Notification, once the review is complete, the committee decides whether to award the honorary doctorate. If approved, the university will notify you and provide details about the ceremony where you will receive the degree.

How Can I Get An Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

Earning an honorary doctorate is an advanced degree that often requires long work and dedication. Here are some ways to improve your chances of getting one.

• Complete meaningful work:To be awarded an honorary doctorate, you must have made significant contributions to your field. This can be through research, public service, or achievements in areas such as economics, religion, government, literature, or the arts. It is important to align your work with the values ​​and mission of potential award-giving organizations. Your work needs to be recognized by leaders in your industry.
• Sign up:You generally cannot apply for an honorary doctorate, You have to sign up. Building connections and relationships with universities can help you achieve your goals. It can also be helpful to understand which parts of the university can be enrolled in, such as presidents or specific schools on campus.
• Attend the awards ceremony:If you are selected, you can attend an awards ceremony, which usually takes place at the end of university. Clients usually give talks at this event. If you fail to attend, the University may suspend the award and re-approve it at a later date.
• Write on your resume:Once you've earned an honorary doctorate, list it in the "Honors/Awards" section at the bottom of your resume. This distinction can highlight your accomplishments and dedication to your job. It is important to note that the degree is honorary and not the equivalent of a traditional degree.
• Maintain Integrity:Honorary degrees are planned for lifetime recognition. However, if the recipient engages in unethical or criminal behavior, the university may revoke the degree. By maintaining integrity and continuing your wonderful career, you help maintain this honor. 

What Is The Difference Between An Honorary Doctorate Degree And a Doctorate Degree? 

I believe that directly telling you the difference, would be better for you if you understand what an honorary doctorate and a doctorate degree are. Ok, let’s start by understanding what is a doctorate degree. 

What is a Doctorate Degree? 

The doctoral degree, commonly known as a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy), is a prestigious academic achievement. Years of focused study and research have been done in this particular area.

The process requires the completion of an advanced doctoral dissertation, which is an important part of the original research. Earning a doctoral degree and understanding in-depth expertise in your field of study.

It reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to your discipline. People with doctoral degrees are seen as experts and leaders in their fields.

Getting a doctorate opens up a lot of career opportunities. You can work in academia as a professor or researcher, in other roles such as a consultant or leader in various industries. This degree demonstrates your intellectual ability, critical thinking, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

What is an Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

Honorary doctorates are awarded to individuals who have made extraordinary or outstanding contributions to society in their careers. Unlike traditional doctoral degrees, honorary degree recipients are not required to fulfill all academic requirements of the doctoral program.

These honorary degrees are a way for universities to recognize and celebrate people for their outstanding achievements, leadership, philanthropy, or significant contributions to society They are a mark of distinction, they command them to take the glory of their progress and have a positive impact on the world.

People’s take on the Honorary Doctorate degree

Honorary doctorate degrees have sparked different opinions in the academic community. Some people think these degrees lessen the value of traditional doctorates because they aren't earned through the same rigorous process.

Critics also worry about the credibility of honorary degrees, suggesting they may be given for non-academic reasons. Despite these concerns, honorary doctorates have important symbolic value.

They recognize and celebrate excellence and achievements beyond academia. These degrees can help bridge the gap between academic and other sectors, encouraging collaboration and the sharing of knowledge. They also provide a platform for role models to inspire others and contribute positively to society. 

My opinion on the Honorary Doctorate degree

Both traditional and honorary doctorates are valuable in their own way. A traditional doctoral degree is earned through rigorous academic work, research, and intellectual development. Scholars are equipped with specialized knowledge and skills that help them advance in their fields.

Honorary doctorates, on the other hand, recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to society.

These degrees celebrate achievements outside the world of academics and recognize those who have inspired others through their work. They also provide opportunities for collaboration in education and other fields and encourage innovation and knowledge sharing.

In conclusion, both titles serve a special purpose. A traditional doctoral degree represents scholarly achievement and advanced knowledge in a particular field.

Honorary doctoral degrees celebrate exceptional achievement and lifetime contributions. It is important to value both forms of recognition and recognize their potential for motivation and collaboration.

Rather than feeling discouraged about raising honorary degrees, scholars should see them as opportunities for networking and advancement in various fields of society

Honorary Degree Vs PhD

The honorary doctorate is a special degree given to someone who has made a significant impact in their field. Unlike a traditional PhD, you do not need to complete a lengthy program of study to earn an honorary degree.

Honorary doctorates are awarded in recognition of exceptional achievements or contributions instead of years of study and research. It may be given to a graduate student or a project that is not officially recognized by their school.

Remember that an honorary doctorate is not the same as a traditional degree. It is a way of honoring one’s significant impact and accomplishments, rather than comparing it to the rigorous process of obtaining a PhD.

Can recipients of Honorary Degrees use the “Dr” title? 

Yes, honorary doctorates are fully legal worldwide and can be used like any regular degree. When using the title, you should include “hc” to indicate that it's an honorary degree.

For example, you would write it as Dr. Kumar, Ph.D. (hc) or Dr. (hc) Kumar. The “hc” stands for Honoris Causa, which means "for the sake of honor."An honorary doctorate is usually given at the graduation ceremony.

The recipient usually gives a speech to the graduating class as part of the ceremony. Recipients may use an honors degree like any other degree, but they may not be recognized in circumstances requiring appropriate academic qualifications.

Most people with honorary doctorates do not use the title ‘doctor’, although there is no law against it. Famous people like Maya Angelou, Billy Graham, and Benjamin Franklin used the title ‘doctor’ to add to their names. Many universities also refer to honorary degree holders as ‘doctorates’.

When using a title, people often use "honoris causa" or "h.c." It’s an honorary degree to show up in brackets. This helps others to understand the uniqueness of the subject.

What Are The Types of Honorary Doctorates?

An honors degree does not require coursework or research papers. It is awarded to recognize specific career advancement.

Here are some of the most common honorary titles:

• Doctorate: Awarded for significant contributions to teaching.
• Degree of Doctor of Laws: For those specializing in law, politics, business, or government.
• Doctor of Education (EdD): Awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of education.
• Doctor of Letters (DLitt), Arts (DA), Philosophy (DP), Music (DMus), or Science (DSci): Takes a significant role in research and scholarship.
• Honorary Bachelor’s Degree (MA, MSc): Awarded for achievement in the creative arts, humanities, social sciences, or similar fields with a related master’s degreeThese degrees celebrate extraordinary contributions and impact, not academic achievement.

What are the advantages of obtaining an Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

An honorary doctorate offers many benefits, both personal and professional. Here's what's appropriate:

• Individual Recognition: This is a sign of respect to recognize significant accomplishments and contributions.
• Professional confidence: Having an honorary doctorate can be a boost. Many use the title “doctor” on their job applications and correspondence, which can lead to promotions in your career.
• Career Opportunity: A doctoral degree with honors can open doors for teaching, speaking engagement, and consulting. It can give you a leg up if you want to go into education or research.
• Career advancement: With an honorary doctorate, you can stand out in professional settings, which can lead to more job opportunities.
• Prestige: An honorary doctoral degree provides a feeling of prestige similar to receiving a traditional degree, even if you did not take the correct academic path.If you dream of pursuing a doctoral degree but aren’t following a traditional path, exploring honors doctoral programs can be a great option. They can make you feel proud and recognized as a great contributor to society.

Is an Honorary PhD valid in India?

Yes, honorary doctorates are fully legal worldwide and can be apostilled like any regular degree. When using the title, you should include “hc” to indicate that it's an honorary degree. For example, you would write it as Dr. Kumar, Ph.D. (hc) or Dr. (hc) Kumar. The “hc” stands for Honoris Causa, which means "for the sake of honor."

Honorary Doctorate in India? 

Honorary doctorates, also known as honorary PhDs, are an important way of recognizing individuals who have contributed to society in India. Unlike traditional doctoral degrees, these degrees are not earned through study or research.

Rather, it is awarded as a badge of honor in recognition of achievements in the arts, science, commerce, politics, and humanitarian endeavors.

These honorary degrees are usually awarded at university ceremonies. They offer degrees similar to traditional doctoral degrees but without the same academic requirements.

This recognition highlights the recipient’s exceptional contributions and aligns them with the values ​​of the awarding organization. For many, receiving an honorary doctorate celebrates past accomplishments and inspires future generations.

The prestige of these titles is significant, indicating worldwide recognition of the recipient. For recipients, it can enhance their public image and open doors to new opportunities in leadership and influence.

These honors often come without obligation, allowing recipients to continue their work independently, with an added sense of trust and respect.

In summary, honorary doctorates are more than just academic grades; Major social achievements are celebrated and those who have made valuable contributions to life are publicly recognized. They serve as an actor as well as a tool to stimulate growth through leadership.

Honorary doctorate nomination process, how to nominate someone for an honorary degree 

Initiation: The nomination usually begins with a form filled out by a faculty member, alumni, or industry professional. Public nominations can also be accepted, showing community involvement.

Documentation Required: A strong nomination file should include:

• A complete biography of the nominee.
• A detailed list of achievements, recognitions, and awards.
• Publications or evidence of the nominee’s impact.
• Endorsements from respected peers or leaders in the field.

Submission: The entire nomination application should be submitted to the university’s honorary degree committee for review.

Nomination Process: The process of awarding an honorary doctorate generally involves several steps:

Users: University members such as alumni, faculty, and sometimes students may apply. Some universities also recognize the nomination of individuals outside the institution who are prominent in the nomination process.

Documents Required: Must include a detailed biography of the nominee, accomplishments, any previous awards or honors, and letters of recommendation It is important to highlight specific accomplishments related to the honorary degree.

Review by Honorary Degree Committee: Nominations are reviewed by the Honorary Degree Committee or similar body. Each candidate is evaluated for eligibility based on university standards.

Decision taken by university administration: After review by the committee, the candidates are sent to higher university authorities such as the Senator or Vice Chancellor for final approval.

Notification and Action: Upon approval, the nominee is notified and invited to accept the degree. If accepted, the honorary degree is usually awarded at a special ceremony, usually at the university’s annual graduation ceremonies.

What is the Scope of an honorary doctorate degree?

Adaptation to Changing Norms: As societal values evolve, the criteria for awarding honorary doctorates may be updated to reflect current priorities, such as equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Innovation: Academic institutions can innovate in awarding honorary degrees by using global connectivity and technology to recognize a broader range of deserving individuals.

Upholding Integrity: To maintain the integrity and credibility of honorary degrees, institutions must ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical stewardship in their awarding processes.

Challenges that are faced by the Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

Criticism of dilution: Some people argue that awarding more doctorates with honors reduces the value of an earned degree. This supposedly blurs the distinction between academic achievement, symbolic recognition, and honorary awards.

Lack of standards: Unlike earned degrees, which follow strict criteria, honorary doctoral degrees do not have the same standards. This raises concerns about fairness and consistency.

Accountability and transparency: Concerns about the transparency of the process for selecting honorary doctors. Some accuse institutions of bias or undue influence, which could undermine the integrity of these awards.

What can you do with an Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

An honorary degree doesn't grant professional privileges but offers prestige and recognition. It allows you to:

• Be formally recognized as someone with a high honor.
• Use the title "doctor" after your name.
• Have others refer to you as "doctor," even if you don't use the title yourself.
• List it on your resume under the "achievements and awards" section.

What is an alternative to an Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

There is an option for you if you want to do a PhD without going to college, I would like to tell you that you can opt for a DBA, which stands for Doctor of Business Administration, and if in case you opt for an Online DBA, you will be able to earn your doctorate degree from an international that too without even relocating to another country.

Moreover, in this program, you even get to study from international faculties who have years of experience in their fields. Moreover, you can even check out the 10 reasons why you should opt for an Online DBA over a PhD Program

• Cost: A DBA program is generally less expensive than a PhD Because online DBA can be pursued by you when you are working and earning so there is no loss of finances and hence it is less expensive in comparison of a PhD program. 
• Duration: You can complete a DBA in less than two years, while a PhD usually takes four years or more.
• Focus: The DBA is designed for a career in management, while the PhD is used for research and study.
• Practical skills: DBA programs teach skills that you can use immediately in the workplace. PhD programs are more theoretically focused.
• Career prospects: Employers often prefer candidates with a DBA for managerial roles, as DBAs are seen to perform well for executive positions.
• Professional Perspective: The curriculum in the DBA program is more business-oriented than that of the PhD program.
• Specializations: DBA students may specialize in areas such as marketing or finance, while PhD programs tend to be broader.
• Capstone Projects: Most DBA programs include capstone projects, allowing students to apply their skills in a real-world setting. PhD programs typically require a dissertation with a focus on academic research.
• Salary: DBA graduates tend to have higher salaries and more successful professional careers than PhD graduates.
• Career Advancement: A DBA can open up many exciting and rewarding career opportunities in the business world.

Various universities offer you an online DBA. Some of them are mentioned below:

Universities	Fees
Golden Gate University	INR 8,14,000
Rushford Business School	INR 8,12,500
ESGCI International School of Management Paris	INR 8,14,000

Benefits of Pursuing an Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

Earning an honorary doctorate is more than just another academic degree; It recognizes a person’s contributions to society, achievements in specific areas, and overall excellence. Benefits of this prestigious award include:

1) Personal honors and academic recognition

An honorary doctorate brings prestige to an individual, emphasizing his life achievements and character. It places recipients among the most influential figures in fields such as science, the arts, and public administration. Stephen Hawking, for example, received an honorary doctorate for his contributions to science, enhancing his global academic prestige. Academically, this award is very credible. It is a contribution to a prestigious institution and opens the door to educational and research opportunities. Recipients are often invited to give talks, seminars, and joint projects, where their insights are invaluable.

2) Performance improvement

An honorary doctorate in business can improve job prospects and promotion. Employers appreciate the recognition of respected organizations, sometimes leading to high-level consulting work or board positions. This recognition also enhances networking opportunities, connecting recipients with other talented individuals, and potentially leading to collaborations with other businesses

3) Social influence

Honorary doctoral degrees can encourage important causes by the recipient. Increased visibility and esteem enable recipients to draw attention to social issues, influence policy, and support projects. Malala Yousafzai, for example, used her honorary doctorate to further her global advocacy for girls’ education.

4) Increased educational opportunities

Specialized learning resources such as university libraries and research centers are often available. This approach helps them develop and support students by fostering knowledge exchange and innovation.

5) Inspiration for future generations

These awards set a strong example that inspires others, especially the younger generation, to strive for excellence. Acknowledging a great contribution to society encourages others to follow this step, furthering the cycle of progress and positive social change.

Essentially, an honorary doctorate is more than a ceremonial approval; It’s a fuel for professional development, social impact, and greater recognition of your lifelong contributions and goals.

Universities offering an Honorary Doctorate Degree? 

There are various universities offering you an Honorary doctorate degree. Some of them are mentioned below:

1) Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)

In India is well-known for its focus on research. The university awards honorary degrees to people who have made significant contributions to the arts, sciences, and social sciences. The selection process involves JNU's academic council. Notable recipients include the Dalai Lama, who was honored for his spiritual and ethical contributions.

2) Amity University

Amity University is known for its dedication to innovation and research through complete instructional packages. Honorary doctorates are provided to people who've made outstanding contributions in quite a few fields, which include the humanities, sciences, enterprise and social work. These honorary stages understand the accomplishments and contributions of outstanding individuals. Amity University values ​​excellence and seeks to honor individuals who encourage and lead by way of instance. The technique requires cautious selection by means of the Academic Council to make sure that the awards go to really deserving individuals. Notable recipients encompass leaders in training, social people and business pioneers who have left a long-lasting impact on society.

3) Chitkara University

Chitkara University also confers an honorary doctorate in popularity of terrific contribution to society. Located in Punjab, India, Chitkara University is identified for its strong curriculum and network involvement. The university awards this diploma to people who have excelled in areas that include generation, healthcare, schooling, and social offerings. An honorary doctorate from Chitkar University is a tribute to those who've made a sizeable effect, whether or not via innovation, leadership or philanthropy. The committee cautiously selects the recipients, ensuring that the honor reflects authentic advantage and accomplishment. Chitkara University not only effectively uses these awards to have fun individual achievements but additionally to encourage destiny generations to strive for excellence and reap social progress.

Regional Practices of Honorary Doctorate

Institutions around the world have unique ways of awarding honorary doctorates, often reflecting their cultural and academic values:

• Universities such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) in India routinely award honorary doctorates to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of art, literature, public service, or science These honors celebrate achievements that positively impact society. 
• In the United States, the focus is often on charitable donations and social impact. American universities value philanthropy and public service, and individuals who have made significant contributions in these areas are often honored.
• In Europe, honorary doctorates are usually awarded to individuals who have contributed to European integration, peace, democracy, and human rights. European universities value efforts that promote these ideas across the continent.

Understanding these differences is important for anyone considering selection for an honorary doctoral degree. It is important to research the specific norms and standards of the institution you are interested in. This helps ensure that enrollees align with what the university recognizes and values.

Conclusion 

An honorary doctorate degree is a prestigious program in higher education and it is a doctorate program. It's given to working professionals who have made big contributions in their discipline, even though they did not attend the university. Understanding the way to acquire an honorary doctorate allows you to gain a reputation for your achievements. Honorary doctorates are fully legal worldwide and can be apostilled like any regular degree. When using the title, you should include “hc” to indicate that it's an honorary degree.