What is the difference between a masters degree and a doctorate?
The main difference between the two degrees has to do with the level of specialization attained in your field. A master’s degree provides less opportunity for specialization and little research training. Master’s programs generally require the completion of 30 credits of coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree and either a final, comprehensive exam or a written thesis (usually 50 to 100 pages in length). A doctorate provides a higher level of specialization and also gives extensive research training. Doctoral programs generally require 60 credits of coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree. Further, most programs administer at least two exams (written and oral) and require a written proposal outlining the final research project to be undertaken. All doctoral programs require a dissertation (a book-length manuscript detailing the doctoral candidate’s original researach in a specialized area) and a final, oral defense of the dissertation.
Related Questions
- What if I already hold a Masters and/or Doctorate degree in my content area? Can I get teaching certification without getting an additional Masters degree?
- I already hold a Masters or Doctorate degree; can I apply for a duplicate degree in a different discipline?
- Can I receive a Masters degree or a Doctorate through Islamic Online University?
