A doctorate degree is the highest level of academic study in most countries. It may be a research doctorate (e.g. Doctor of Philosophy, PhD) or a professional doctorate (e.g. Doctor of Medicine, MD). A doctorate may take anything between 3 - 8 years to complete, depending on the subject, candidate and university.

1. Research Doctorates: typically involve the submission by the candidate of an original body of research known as a thesis. This may be up to 100,000 words in length, and is reviewed by a small committee of examiners. Other research doctorates include subjects such as the social sciences (e.g. economics, history, politics), the natural sciences (biology, chemistry, physics etc.), humanities (arts, philosophy, religious studies etc.) and mathematics.
   
   The successful completion of a research doctorate ensures a high degree of employability in the specialised subject area, but also indicates a high level of motivation on the part of the student. Other benefits gained by completing a research doctorate include knowledge of research methods, powerful analytical skills, statistical accuracy and linguistic precision, critical independent thinking and the ability to solve complex problems. Completion of a PhD often leads to a teaching career in a specified area.
   
   
2. Professional Doctorates: are designed for candidates who are intending to pursue a particular professional career path. Unlike research doctorates, they have a strong taught element, and also a more practical focus. Possible qualifications gained by completing a professional doctorate are: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Engineering (EngD), Doctor of Medicine (MD).
   
   Professional doctorates are an excellent way of guaranteeing employment and a steady career path. They are an investment that will produce profits over a long period, and will provide you with many specialised skills that will make you highly employable.

At Elite Education Consulting, we can advise you on doctorate programs in London and the UK, tailoring our recommendations to your specific needs. We can also provide assistance with scholarship applications to help reduce your financial burden.