“M.D.” vs. “Ph.D.” vs. “Dr.”: Are They Synonyms?

Quick: when you hear the word doctor , what do you picture?

Most would probably describe someone in a white lab coat with a stethoscope hanging around their neck or someone in medical scrubs—someone you would seek out if you have a deep cut that needed stitches.

That word doctor , however, is a title assigned to many who don’t come close to that description, many of whom you wouldn’t want stitching up that cut. Take your English professor, for instance. No offense, Dr. Barrett. 

It can all be a bit confusing, which is why it’s important to know who and why someone might be called a doctor , as well as what all those initials and abbreviations after their name mean. Here we break it all down.

What does Dr. mean?

Let’s start with doctor or D r . for short. While the first definition of the word is “ a person licensed to practice medicine,” that doesn’t mean you want to take medical advice from anyone who calls themselves a doctor . There are many looser definitions of the word that follow and, frankly, make things a bit confusing.

For example, the third definition is older slang for a “cook, as at a camp or on a ship,” while the seventh entry is “an eminent scholar and teacher.” Bugs Bunny didn’t help matters either by plying anyone and everyone with his famous greeting,“What’s up, doc?” 

The term doctor can be traced back to the late 1200s, and it stems from a Latin word meaning “to teach.” It wasn’t used to describe a licensed medical practitioner until about 1400, and it wasn’t used as such with regularity until the late 1600s. It replaced the former word used for medical doctors— leech , which is now considered archaic. 

WATCH: When Did The Word "Doctor" Become Medical?

Physician vs. doctor : are these synonyms.

While the term physician is a synonym for doctor , it’s typically used to refer to those who practice general medicine rather than those who perform surgery, aka surgeons . 

A quack , on the other hand, is defined as “ a fraudulent or ignorant pretender to medical skill.”

What does M.D. mean?

Moving on to initials that carry more weight than a nod from Bugs, let’s look at M.D.s .

M.D. , which can be used with or without the periods ( M.D. or MD )  is the designation for a medical doctor. This is earned by attending medical school (typically a four-year program after completing at least one undergraduate degree, plus a residency program), and learning to diagnose patients’ symptoms and offer treatment. 

The initials M and D stem from the Latin title  Medicīnae Doctor. There are many different types of doctors, with different specialties, but if you have a physical ailment, visiting a doctor with the initials M.D. is a good place to start.

Specialty doctors may add even more initials to their title, such as DCN (doctor of clinical nutrition), DDS (doctor of dental surgery), or countless others they acquire with additional training. To make things even more confusing, some may add abbreviations from medical associations they belong to, such as FAAEM (Fellow of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine). 

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What does Ph.D. mean?

As for Ph.D. , this stands for “doctor of philosophy.” It stems from the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor.

You can get a Ph.D. in any number of subjects, from anthropology to mythological studies. It’s not an easy feat, however, as to earn one, you must do original research and write a dissertation . 

Ph.D. vs. M.D .: are these synonyms?

There are two big differences between Ph.D. s and M.D .s. When it comes to medicine, M.D.s can prescribe medications, and Ph.D.s can’t. And yes, it’s possible to be both an M.D. and a Ph.D. In fact, some med schools offer programs in which you can achieve both simultaneously. 

You can also get a professional doctorate degree in a number of fields. For example, you might receive a doctorate of education, an  Ed.D . 

So, in a nutshell, both M.D.s and Ph.Ds can be referred to as doctors . If you’re looking for someone to treat what ails you physically, then you want at least an M.D. following their name. If you want to dig deep into a subject and get advice from someone who has done their own research and who likely knows the latest and greatest developments in a particular area, then you’re probably looking for a Ph.D. And if someone has both, even better—depending on your needs, it may be just what the doctor ordered.

Want more synonyms? Get Thesaurus.com’s sizzling synonyms right in your inbox! 

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MD-PhD, Combined Degree

School of medicine, md - phd, combined degree program.

From its inception, the physician-scientist has been a hallmark of Johns Hopkins medicine and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Indeed, the Hopkins tri-emblem represents the three core values of the institution: teaching, patient care, and research.

The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine offers a variety of opportunities for the training of medical scientists. A combined curriculum leading to both MD and PhD degrees enables students who aspire to careers in academic medicine to obtain intensive training in specialized areas of the biomedical sciences in addition to top-flight medical training. The traditional diversity and flexibility of the educational opportunities at Johns Hopkins permit the design of individualized programs to meet the needs of students with a variety of interests, educational backgrounds, and career goals.

To accomplish our training goals, we expect students to fully commit to medical training while in medical school and research training while in graduate school.  However, we also take important steps to ensure that students are exposed to the intersection of both worlds early in their training, as well as given the professional and career development advice they need to succeed.

In a word, the MD-PhD curriculum at Johns Hopkins is flexible. Most students decide to complete the first two years of medical school before they begin graduate school and finish the last two years of their medical training after completing their thesis work (see the Timeline below). However, students who want more first-hand experience in clinical medicine before beginning graduate work can elect to complete three years of medical school, followed by their graduate training, and then the last year of medical school. This can give them a better appreciation of the potential clinical relevance of their research. In making a choice, trainees consult extensively with the Program Director, the Dean of Students, members of the MD-PhD Committee, prospective research mentors, and their faculty advisors. Students in the MD-PhD Program are automatically accepted to all graduate programs, so decisions regarding graduate training programs can be made with a strong understanding of each program.  The MD-PhD Committee is responsible for program oversight, admissions, and  student mentorship .  Students complete MD-PhD training on average in eight years.

Johns Hopkins interdisciplinary organizational structure means each faculty member may be affiliated with several clinical departments, research sections, and graduate programs. 

Formal graduate programs in the School of Medicine encompass the following areas: Biochemistry; Cellular, and Molecular Biology; Biological Chemistry; Biomedical Engineering; Molecular Biophysics; Functional Anatomy and Human Evolutionary Studies; Cell Biology; Cellular and Molecular Medicine; History of Medicine; Human Genetics; Immunology; Neuroscience; Pathobiology; Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, and Cellular and Molecular Physiology. Students are also eligible to obtain their PhD in one of the 11 graduate programs at the Bloomberg School of Public Health or the School of Arts and Sciences on the Homewood Campus.  Students may select a thesis mentor from faculty in the Schools of Medicine and Public Health.

The MD-PhD Program also sponsors special seminars and lectures, It also maintains a dedicated library, the Paul Talalay MD-PhD Library, to enrich the educational opportunities of all MD-PhD students. Efforts are made to acquaint MD-PhD candidates with the major advances, concepts, and cutting-edge techniques in contemporary medicine and biomedical sciences.  We also create an environment that promotes a more intimate personal contact with successful medical scientists in this institution.

Admission Procedures.  Individuals who wish to apply for admission to the combined MD-PhD Program of the School of Medicine must submit an application through AMCAS  in which they will indicate the MD-PhD Program.  Once the AMCAS application has been verified and submitted to Hopkins, the applicant will receive an invitation to complete the Hopkins Secondary Application.  Here the applicant will submit the additional materials required for the combined degree.  Johns Hopkins does not allow applicants to apply to both the traditional MD program and the combined program during the same cycle.   

All combined-degree applications are reviewed by a separate  MD-PhD Review Committee  which is comprised of faculty from the basic sciences and clinical arena, as well as faculty from the Bloomberg School of Public Health.  A separate Graduate School application is  not necessary . The MD-PhD Committee determines whether or not an interview is indicated.  In general, the committee is looking for students with a passion for research and a commitment to medicine.  This assessment is based on the applicant’s research experience, letters of recommendation, academic performance and extracurricular activities. The Committee considers standardized test scores only in the context of the applicant’s other credentials. If an interview is granted, the applicant is notified by the MD-PhD Office and after the applicant accepts, the process for scheduling an interview begins.  Interview visits generally occur over two days. Applicants are interviewed by members of the MD-PhD Committee and other faculty members who share their research interests. Applicants have many opportunities to meet with current students and tour the campus during their visit. 

All eligible applicants who are admitted to the MD-PhD Program are funded by the NIH Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) Award.  This program, supported by the National Institutes of Health, provides full tuition, stipend, and medical and dental insurance for students. Due to federal restrictions, only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for MSTP funding.  Approximately 10-12 MD-PhD students matriculate each year.

Students who matriculate to the traditional MD Program but have a clearly demonstrated interest and experience in scientific research, are eligible to apply to the combined MD-PhD Program.  These students may apply for admission during the fall of their first or second year of medical school.  These qualified applicants are evaluated and placed in the pool for the current application cycle and will be considered for MSTP funding.  

Financial Support.  The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) is supported by a training grant from the National Institutes of Health. A number of exceptional students with unusual accomplishments and commitment to a career in the medical sciences will be selected for traineeships under this program. Such fellowships provide stipend and tuition support for combined medical and graduate study. All students who are admitted to the MD-PhD Program will be considered for these awards. 

Graduates of The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine MD-PhD Program have gone on to become leaders in many areas of academic medicine.

Advice on the scope and opportunities offered by these programs may be obtained from the Director or Administrative Director of the MD-PhD Program.

phd full form in medical

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What is the Full Form of PhD?

phd full form in medical

  • Updated on  
  • Feb 14, 2024

PHD full form

The full form of a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. It is an advanced academic degree that is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to their chosen field of study. The degree is recognised globally and is highly regarded in the academic community. PhD can also be called a DPhil or D. Phil. A person with this degree can add “Dr.” as a prefix to their name and is considered a doctor in that field. 

Also Read – What is the Full Form of B.Ed?

The History of Ph.D

The concept of a Doctor of Philosophy degree dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe. The term “ doctor ” comes from the Latin word “docere,” which means “to teach.” The word “ philosophy ” is derived from the ancient Greek word “philosophia” which means “love of wisdom”. Thus, a person who has the zeal to teach and has a love of wisdom about their field is awarded with PhD. 

Also Read – What is the MA Full Form?

Eligibility for PhD

The eligibility for pursuing PhD is –

  • Have a Master’s or MPhil degree or a postgraduate degree from a recognized University or Institutions in a related field in which they intend to do PhD.
  • In India, some universities require UGC NET / CSIR qualifications
  • The upper limit for Junior Research Fellowship ( NET JRF ) is 31 years while there is no upper limit for taking National Eligibility Test (NET) .

Also Read – What is the MSC Full Form?

Objectives of the PhD Course

Initially, the Ph.D. degree was awarded only in the field of philosophy, but over time, it expanded to encompass other disciplines as well.

  • A PhD program allows one to delve deep into a chosen field of study and become an expert in a specific area. 
  • Having a Ph.D. demonstrates the expertise and research capabilities, making one an attractive candidate for academic positions, research roles and high-level positions in various industries.
  • Pursuing a PhD offers intellectual stimulation and allows one to engage in critical thinking, problem-solving and independent research. 

Also Read – What is the Full Form of MFA?

List of Subjects for a PhD Degree

Interested students can pursue their PhD degree in any of these popular subjects:

  • Engineering
  • Biochemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Health care

Popular Full Forms

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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 3 May. 2024.

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MD vs PhD: Difference and Comparison

MD and PhD are both degrees in the medical field. The complete form of MD is Doctor of Medicine, and the complete form of PhD is Doctor of Philosophy.

Also, a person holding an MD degree can prescribe medicines, but this is not the case with a PhD degree holder. A PhD degree holder cannot prescribe medicines, and the whole work for them is research-oriented.

Key Takeaways MD (Doctor of Medicine) is a professional degree for physicians and surgeons, focusing on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and medical conditions. Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) is an advanced academic degree awarded for research and original contributions to a specific field of knowledge, not limited to medicine or healthcare. MD and Ph.D. are advanced degrees, but MD prepares individuals for medical practice, while Ph.D. is a research-based degree applicable to various disciplines.

MD stands for doctor of medicine, and is a degree given to those who complete a four-year course, will be treating patients, and can prescribe medicines. Ph.D. means a doctor of philosophy and is a degree that takes up to seven years to attain. It requires the student to submit a thesis paper in research work.

MD vs PhD 1

The time of completion of both degrees also differs from each other. It takes about four years for a person to get an MD degree, while getting a PhD can take four to seven years, depending upon when the person studying for the degree submits their thesis paper.

Both MD and PhD degree holders are referred to as ‘doctors. Only MD degree holders are practising medical doctors. As a PhD can be done in various subjects, this degree mainly focuses on research.

Similar Reads

  • PhD vs JRF: Difference and Comparison
  • Ed.D vs PhD.: Difference and Comparison
  • PsyD vs PhD: Difference and Comparison
  • a ThD vs a PhD: Difference and Comparison
  • Masters vs PhD: Difference and Comparison

Comparison Table

What is md.

MD stands for ‘doctor of medicine’. The doctor of medicine comes from Latin, which means ‘teacher of medicine’.

It is a four-year-long degree.

It includes two years of coursework and another two years of rotational work in some hospital or clinic.

An MD degree formally trains a person for patient care. It takes a longer time to complete a degree if the person is studying to become a physician as they undergo more intensive training than others.

The main focus of this degree is to train the students and prepare them to focus on the overall diagnosis and take proper decisions about in which direction the patient care should be taken.

An MD degree holder is referred to as a medical doctor. These medical doctors also have the option to specialize in highly skilled sub-fields, such as surgeries, for which other patient care professionals are not trained.

MD degree holders are practising medical doctors and thus can prescribe medicines to patients. If specialised in sub-fields, they can even do surgeries according to their field of specialisation.

md

What is PhD?

PhD stands for ‘doctor of philosophy’. The doctor of philosophy comes from the Latin word philosophiÃi doctor, which means ‘teacher of philosophy’.

Getting a PhD can take upto four to seven years, depending on the submission of a thesis paper.

To get a PhD degree, a person must submit their thesis paper. After submitting the thesis paper, it is examined by a group of experts in the field of the PhD degree.

The person can also be called to elaborate or defend his work before the experts.

A person can do PhD in almost any academic field, from literature to anthropology. All the PhD holders are referred to as doctors in that specific field he has mastered.

The primary purpose of people studying for a PhD degree is to do original research in their field. There is also a PhD degree available in the medical field.

In some medical programs, the authority offers the students a dual MD-PhD track. This is for those who are interested in becoming physician-scientists.

Students who take upon this dual MD-PHD program can write prescriptions, practice medicine, and research in a clinical or academic setting.

There is also a possible way to get a PhD without studying for an MD degree. The last requirement for a student to be eligible for studying for a PhD degree is that the student must have a bachelor’s degree in the specific field you want to do a PhD.

phd

Main Differences Between MD and PhD

  • The full form of MD is Doctor of Medicine, and the complete form of PhD is Doctor of philosophy.
  • MD is a higher degree in medicine, whereas a PhD is a higher degree that can be done in various fields.
  • It takes four to seven years to complete the MD degree, while it can take four to seven years to obtain a PhD.
  • An MD degree is completed after two years of coursework and another two years of rotational work. In contrast, completing a PhD is after submitting a thesis paper which experts then examine.
  • MD degree was first introduced in the mediaeval Arabic Universities, while the PhD degree was first introduced in European Universities.

Difference Between X and Y 2023 04 08T120348.882

  • https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1016/S0736-0266(00)00051-6
  • https://www.lifescied.org/doi/abs/10.1187/cbe.17-08-0187

Last Updated : 11 June, 2023

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20 thoughts on “md vs phd: difference and comparison”.

The article offers a clear comparison between MD and PhD, making it easier for readers to understand the disparities. The information is presented effectively and with precision.

Indeed, the clarity in outlining the differences between the degrees is commendable.

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I concur. As someone with an interest in these fields, I found the article to be enlightening.

The article seems to oversimplify the differences between MD and PhD. It needs to acknowledge the complexities involved.

I agree. It presents a black-and-white view of these degrees without addressing important gray areas.

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Precisely, it’s a valuable exposition on a topic that is misunderstood.

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The article presents a lighthearted and witty approach to discussing the disparities between MD and PhD. The informative content is enlivened by a touch of humor, rendering a delightful read.

Indeed, the humor employed enhances the appeal of the article without compromising its educational value.

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This article is presented in a serious and academic tone, which is suitable for the subject matter at hand. The formality adds to the credibility of the information provided.

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This is a very informative article that explains the differences between MD and PhD clearly and concisely. It’s important to understand the distinction because they are confused.

Absolutely, I agree. These degrees are commonly misunderstood and it’s crucial to clarify the differences.

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Home / Nursing Articles / What Is the Difference Between an MD, DNP, and Ph.D. in Nursing?

What Is the Difference Between an MD, DNP, and Ph.D. in Nursing?

The role of the md, dnp vs. ph.d. in nursing, what is the salary difference between a dnp and ph.d. in nursing.

What Is the Difference Between an MD, DNP, and Ph.D. in Nursing?

A DNP (doctor of nursing practice) and Ph.D. in Nursing are vastly different than an MD (doctor of medicine). The former are highly-trained nurses, and the latter is a physician, with all the scope of practice allowances that come with that title.

A "DNP" is an advanced-practice registered nurse who may specialize in the following roles:

  • Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse-Midwife
  • Nurse Anesthetist
  • Nurse Executive
  • Nurse Informaticist

The DNP nurse has achieved one of the highest degrees awarded in the field of nursing (next to the Ph.D. in Nursing , which is just as prestigious but has more of an academic focus compared to the clinical focus of the DNP). It demonstrates that the nurse exemplifies clinical expertise and knowledge in the field and that the nurse is skilled in identifying healthcare-related issues and can propose evidence-based solutions in the ever-changing world of healthcare.

An MD is a medical doctor, also known as a physician. While it may be evident that a DNP (or Ph.D. in Nursing) is a nurse and an MD is a doctor, the explanation of the differences goes a little deeper than the title. It's important to realize that nurses and doctors are trained differently:

  • Nurse Approach – The nurse's approach to healthcare is holistic. Nurses view the patient as a whole – which means they assess the physical, mental, and even spiritual well-being of patients. They also look at, and involve, a patient's support system in relation to disease processes. Patient education and teaching are paramount in that it helps to both heal and prevent disease.
  • Physician Approach – The physician's approach to healthcare is disease-based. They are presented with a healthcare disorder and find ways to fix it. They order imaging tests and blood work to diagnose and order a treatment plan. However, in recent years, preventive medicine is becoming a huge part of a physician's job.

RELATED : RN to MD

Both a Ph.D. and DNP are considered terminal degrees for nurses, and both degrees demonstrate that the nurse is a clinical expert in his or her field. However, there are differences between the two.

The main difference is that a DNP is focused more on clinical practice, while a Ph.D. is research-focused. Choosing which degree path to take is based on the career goals of the nurse. MSN -prepared nurses practicing in an advanced role (i.e., nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, CRNA) who wish to expand their knowledge base and achieve a terminal degree to enhance their practice would benefit from choosing the DNP path.

Conversely, those who hope to get into education, research, and leadership would benefit from the Ph.D. path. Nurses with a Ph.D. use evidence-based research to develop policies and procedures and implement workflows that align with standards of care. They are especially involved with improving patient care outcomes based on research findings.

As with the differing roles of the DNP and Ph.D. nurses, the educational curriculum differs as well. DNP students must complete a capstone project that involves identifying an issue in healthcare and proposing evidence-based solutions. While this sounds more aligned with a Ph.D. program, the project should pertain to their specific clinical area. Additionally, the DNP program has an immersive clinical practicum which is required to graduate.

RELATED : Dual DNP/Ph.D. Nursing Programs

The Ph.D. curriculum is more research-based. Students must complete an original research project and complete a dissertation which may also include teaching. The curriculum does not include patient care clinical hours.

Regardless of which path is chosen, both degree options allow for expert nurses and practitioners to make an impact on patient care to improve outcomes.

phd full form in medical

As the highest degrees in nursing practice, the Doctor of Nursing Practice ( DNP ) and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing ( Ph.D. ) degrees can catapult advanced practice nurses to the top of the pay range. Some prospective students, however, may wonder how the salaries of these different degree types stack up. The short answer is that the differences in salary between nurses who hold a DNP and those with a Ph.D. are minimal, with an average difference of approximately $4,000 per year. However, things such as location, organization, and job title will ultimately determine a salary for a nurse with either degree type.

A DNP operates at the highest level of clinical practice, and the salary average for a nurse with this degree lands at approximately $100,000 per year . This is variable amongst jobs, as a clinician salary is higher than an educator salary. In other words, individuals who work at universities teaching nursing students average less income than those practicing with patients. For example, a DNP practicing as an Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner averages closer to $110,000 per year. Most DNP-prepared RNs tend to opt for clinical practice careers. Some job titles a DNP may search for include: Advanced Practitioner, Quality Improvement Manager, Healthcare Informaticist, Clinical Educator, Policy Maker, and more.

Ph.D. Salary

A Ph.D. prepared nurse spends time researching, conducting analysis and performing scientific studies. They also commonly enter academia as professors and educators. According to Payscale, a Ph.D. educated nurse's average salary is $96,000 per year. This makes the salary very competitive in comparison to that of a DNP. Similar to a DNP-prepared nurse, there is variability in salary depending on setting and institution. A nurse researcher can expect to earn a yearly salary of approximately $95,000 per year. Some job titles a Ph.D. may search for include: Nurse Researcher , Nurse Scientist, Policy Maker, Academic Professor, Author.

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PhD: Full Form, Eligibility, Admission 2024, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Scope

PhD or Doctor of Philosophy is the highest academic degree programme, mostly in every field of study. PhD curriculum covers extensive research and expertise, and research papers within a specific subject or even in an interdisciplinary subject. PhD or Doctor of Philosophy is requires at least a postgraduate degree programme, such as M.A , MSc , MTech or the students must have a great research paper with a recommendation. PhD course details vary depending on the discipline, university and guide. The guide in PhD plays a major role in suggestions and recommending the study material as well as helping them with new ideas.

Latest: Top Ph.d Colleges in India

Don't Miss: UGC NET Previous Year Question Papers

What is a Full Form of PhD?

Highlights - ph.d (doctor of philosophy), phd fees structure.

  • Why Choose PhD?

PhD Eligibility Criteria

Skill required for phd degree, phd admission process, phd entrance exams, phd syllabus/subjects, phd specializations, what after phd, career opportunities after phd, salary after phd degree, top private phd colleges in india, top government phd colleges in india.

PhD course requires a high level of dedication, intellectual rigour, and perseverance. Graduates with a PhD or Doctor of Philosophy are recognised as experts in their preferred field, and it opens doors to multiple fields, such as academia, research institutions, and government-funded research programmes. Students who have completed PhD degree programmes are called “Doctors” and can use Dr. as a prefix before their name. In this article, we will discuss, PhD course details, such as PhD course duration, PhD course eligibility, PhD subjects, PhD course duration, PhD eligibility criteria, PhD admission process.

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy is a doctoral degree programme with a duration of three to six years. PhD degree can be pursued in almost any field such as English, Maths, Physics Linguistics, and Comparative Literature. Students can also pursue Ph.D. in interdisciplinary subjects, and they need to make a good research paper to apply directly to various universities.

PhD course fees differ from one university to another and generally depend on the institute, and specialisation. Before enrolling in any particular university, candidates should check the PhD admission process, PhD eligibility criteria and PhD course fees. Students who get the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) will not pay the fees whereas they will get the scholarship for pursuing PhD degree. JRF for the Humanities, Social Science and Science subjects is Rs. 25,000 for the initial two years and Rs. 28,000 for the remaining tenure which is SRF (Senior Research Fellowship).

Why Choose PhD ?

A PhD degree offers a wide range of career opportunities for strengthening knowledge and expertise. PhD degree provides knowledge in a chosen field of study. Ph.D allows students to become experts in their niche, by providing various skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. PhD can open doors for various careers and employment options in multiple fields, such as academia, research, and government agencies, with good salary packages. Choosing a PhD can provide students with a lot of scope and also lifelong learning, intellectual growth, and a unique avenue for personal and professional growth.

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Students who want to pursue a PhD programme should have the required eligibility criteria. The detailed eligibility criteria for pursuing a PhD are given below.

  • Students who have a master's degree are eligible for admission into the Ph.D. programmes.
  • Students have to qualify for the national level examinations like National Eligibility Test for Lectureship (NET) conducted by NTA .
  • Final admission is offered on the basis of the interview and research proposal.
  • If candidates want to pursue PhD in the field of Engineering and Technology, he/she has to qualify for GATE, GATE, UGC-NET, and CSIR-UGC-NET with good marks. Also, for admission to Ph.D. Engineering, candidates should complete their degree in M.Tech/M.E in any branch of engineering .

PhD or Doctor of Philosophy degree in India requires students to develop a lot of skills to succeed academically. Skills might vary depending on the chosen specialisation. In the table below, we have mentioned some of the essential skills required for a Ph.D. degree.

Admissions in some universities are offered on the basis of students' merit in the entrance examination although few universities provide admission based on the research proposal and the interview process.

  • PhD admission process is available both online and offline.
  • If a candidate is applying to a university, he/she should download the application form online from the official website of the university.
  • Applicants need to fill out the UGC NET or other entrance examination forms and appear for it.
  • They should have a research proposal based on which universities can shortlist the candidates.
  • After qualifying the examinations, candidates can appear for the interview round and pursue the PhD degree programme.

UGC NET: University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test or UGC NET is a national-level entrance test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). UGC NET is conducted by NTA, twice a year for admission in doctoral programmes.

CSIR UGC NET : CSIR UGC Test for JRF and Eligibility for Lectureship or CSIR UGC NET is a national-level entrance examination conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to Ph.D. degree programmes.

PhD subjects and syllabus can vary from one university to another along with the specialisation. PhD subjects will be different based on the area of the study, as it depends on the research proposal, the guide and the students. Based on the mentioned factors, further study will be done although the first two semesters will be similar for the main subject. In the table below, we have mentioned the PhD English syllabus of Presidency University.

In the table below, we have mentioned the syllabus for PhD Mathematics of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University.

There are various specialisations an individual can opt for PhD course programme. Some of the PhD specialisations are popular among those who are interested in entering higher education. Naming few of them are:

  • PhD in Management
  • PhD in Physics
  • PhD in Computer Science
  • PhD in Economics
  • PhD in Mathematics
  • PhD Microbiology

After completing a PhD degree programme students have a wide range of career options. Many graduates choose academia and become professors or research associates at universities and colleges. Professor teach, write research papers, and journals, and mentor students. Some graduates enter various industries such as technology, healthcare, or finance, contributing to innovation and problem-solving. Government agencies and non-profit organisations also seek PhD holders for policy analysis, consulting, and advocacy roles.

In this section, we have mentioned the careers that can be pursued after completing PhD degree programme.

University Professor/ Lecturer : After pursuing PhD, graduates can become university professors or lecturers. They teach and conduct research in their respective fields and are responsible for mentoring students, curriculum development, and publishing research papers.

Research Scientist : Research scientists are professionals who work in various sectors, including academia, technology, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and government research institutions. They research, write the thesis and publish the findings in the journals.

Consultant/Advisor: Consultants or advisors conduct market research and solve complex problems and provide solutions to clients. They provide expert advice to their clients and join major financial companies such as McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group, and Deloitte.

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PhD salary depends on various factors such as the specialisations and college reputation, work experience, experience in the particular field, location of work, and skill sets. Below, we have mentioned the PhD salary.

In India, there are a number of private colleges that offer PhD degrees. Private universities are significantly more expensive than public universities. Some of the top private PhD colleges and the PhD fees are mentioned in the table below:

Government-run college is less expensive than private college and are well known for their high academic standards throughout India. The following are some of the best government PhD colleges and also PhD fees:

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

Candidates should have a master’s degree in any discipline to get an admission to Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy).

Yes, candidates have to appear for the national level examination or the entrance examination conducted by the particular university/college.

Ph.D. holder has the opportunity to become researcher, scientist, professor, journalist, independent consultant, human services worker, editor, critic, lecturer etc. A Ph.D. holder can also apply for a job in the finance sector, public sector etc.

There is a chance for Ph.D. graduates to work in other countries. If you are a Ph.D. graduate, any company will take you as right now Ph.D.is the highest level of academic degree anyone can earn so for the companies, you are the expert in the subject.

The duration of Ph.D. is usually between 2 to 7 years depending on the field you are researching.

The prominent universities which offer a degree in Ph.D. are Amity University, Noida, Tata institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, KCG college of Technology, Chennai, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi, Chennai Mathematical Institute, Indian Statistical Institute (ISI).

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Questions related to Ph.D

With your background in zoology and your current Master's in nutrition, you have a strong foundation for a PhD in nutrition.

There are two main types of exams you might consider for PhD programs in India.

  • UGC NET (National Eligibility Test): This exam is conducted by the UGC (University Grants Commission) for eligibility as a college or university Assistant Professor. While not strictly a requirement for PhD programs, qualifying UGC NET demonstrates your research potential and makes you eligible for fellowships.
  • CSIR-UGC NET: Conducted by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), this exam is similar to UGC NET but focuses on science streams. Qualifying can make you eligible for research fellowships from CSIR labs.

https://competition.careers360.com/exams/ugc-net

I hope it helps!

Hello Deepa

PhD in visual arts is designed for those who are interested in exploring the intrinsic areas of visual arts. Printing technology ,graphics, sculpture, paintings, digital art. Aesthetics , animations , bra ding, information design, U. Anc other related subjects.

PhD in visual arts is a two years Course.

Eligibility for the Course is to have master's degrees in visual arts or rested subject.

Colleges offering phD in visual arts are

Assam university

Bharat ratn Dr ambedkar university Delhi

Banasthali vidyapeeth , Tonk , Rajasthan

Bhupal nibke university,  Udaipur

Deen Dayal upadhyay , gorakhpur university

IIS university , Rajasthan

JNU , New delhi

For details you may refer the link given below

https://university.careers360.com/colleges/list-of-phd-in-fine-arts-universities-in-india

The opening dates for PhD applications in history can vary greatly depending on the institution and country. Typically, PhD applications for history programs open several months in advance of the academic year for which you are applying.

To know more about PhD in History, click on the below link.

https://www.careers360.com/courses/phd-history

Hello aspirant

Graduates who have obtained master's degree in psycology are eligible for pursuing phD in clinical psycology . However mental health is also equivalent to psycology so if you have master's degree in mental  Health , you can go for phD in clinical psycology Course.  You must also clear the relevant entrance exam such as UGC NET and also get a valid aggregate score as per the requirements.

The Course is of three years duration. Fees for the  entire duration is 59,550 to 3.65 lakh.

Average salary for the psychologists is 3.7 lpa

The salary increases with experience .

For details you may visit the link given below

https://www.careers360.com/courses/phd-in-psychology

There is no way to pursue phD without getting master's degree .

There are many universities which offer master's Course through online mode . So first get post graduation done and after getting a valid score in master's Course,  you can pursue phD .

Eligibility criteria for pursuing  phD

The candidate Must have obtained master's degree in relevant subject with minimum 55% marks from any government recognized university.

If you do phD in  pharmacy , you will be able to do research work in pharmacy field .

After phD in pharmacy you may get salary upto 15 lakh per annum.

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PhD Full Form, All You Need to Know About Ph.D.

PHD Full Form, All You Need to Know About PHD

PhD Full Form

PhD stands for “Doctor of Philosophy”. It is an advanced academic degree that signifies the highest level of expertise and achievement in a particular field of study. While the title “Doctor of Philosophy” may sound philosophical, it is not limited to the study of philosophy but encompasses a wide range of academic disciplines. In this article, we will unveil the full form of a PhD and explore the significance of this advanced academic degree.

Ph.D. Full Form in Hindi

पीएचडी का मतलब “डॉक्टर ऑफ फिलॉसफी” है। यह एक उन्नत शैक्षणिक डिग्री है जो अध्ययन के किसी विशेष क्षेत्र में उच्चतम स्तर की विशेषज्ञता और उपलब्धि का प्रतीक है।

The Origin of the PhD

The term “Doctor of Philosophy” has its roots in the medieval universities of Europe, where it was used to refer to scholars who pursued a rigorous course of study and research. Over time, the concept of a PhD evolved, and it became associated with the highest level of academic attainment.

Key Characteristics of a PhD

  • Research Focus : A PhD program is primarily research-oriented, requiring students to conduct original research in their chosen field of study. This research contributes to the body of knowledge in the discipline.
  • Thesis or Dissertation : One of the central components of a PhD program is the completion of a doctoral thesis or dissertation. This is a substantial research project that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to make a significant contribution to their field.
  • Expertise and Specialization : PhD candidates become experts in their chosen area of specialization, gaining in-depth knowledge and critical thinking skills.
  • Duration : The duration of a PhD program varies by country and discipline but typically spans three to five years of full-time study.
  • Academic Rigor : PhD programs are academically rigorous, requiring candidates to engage in critical analysis, literature reviews, and scholarly writing.

The PhD Journey

The journey to earning a PhD is challenging and demanding, involving several stages:

  • Coursework : In the initial phase, students may complete coursework in their field to build a strong foundation of knowledge.
  • Research Proposal : PhD candidates must develop a research proposal outlining their intended research project, including its significance and methodology.
  • Research and Data Collection : The heart of a PhD program involves conducting research, collecting data, and analyzing findings. This phase may require fieldwork, laboratory experiments, surveys, or other research methods.
  • Thesis Writing : Candidates write a doctoral thesis or dissertation based on their research findings. This document is a substantial, original contribution to the field and is subjected to peer review.
  • Oral Defense : After completing the thesis, candidates defend their research in an oral examination, often called a viva voce or thesis defense. This involves presenting and defending their work before a panel of experts.
  • Publication : Many PhD candidates seek to publish their research in academic journals, further contributing to the scholarly community.

Global Recognition and Career Impact

Earning a PhD is a significant achievement with global recognition. It opens doors to various career opportunities, including:

  • Academic Roles : Many PhD holders become university professors or researchers, imparting knowledge and contributing to academic advancements.
  • Research and Development : PhD graduates often find employment in research and development roles in industries, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
  • Consulting : Consulting firms value the expertise and problem-solving skills of PhD holders.
  • Policy Analysis : PhD graduates can work as policy analysts, influencing and shaping public policy.
  • Entrepreneurship : Some PhD holders launch their businesses or startups, leveraging their expertise and research.

Conclusion – PhD Full Form

In conclusion, PhD, which stands for “Doctor of Philosophy,” represents the pinnacle of academic achievement and expertise in a specific field of study. It is characterized by a rigorous research focus, the completion of a substantial thesis or dissertation, and a commitment to advancing knowledge in the chosen discipline. Earning a PhD is a challenging yet rewarding journey that opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities and allows individuals to make significant contributions to their fields. As the pursuit of knowledge continues to evolve, the PhD remains a symbol of intellectual rigor and a catalyst for innovation and discovery in the academic world.

Indian Navy Agniveer SSR Apply Online

PhD Full Form – FAQs

Ans. PhD stands for “Doctor of Philosophy.”

Ans. पीएचडी का मतलब “डॉक्टर ऑफ फिलॉसफी” है।

shubham mittal

Shubham Mittal is a renowned current affairs writer and expert in government exam preparation, inspiring readers with insightful articles and guiding aspirants with his expertise.

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Medical Careers

What is an MD-PhD Dual Degree?

March 26, 2018 10 mins The Atlantis Team

About The Atlantis Team

We offer helpful, informative content to the next generation of healthcare professionals, so that they can achieve their goals, avoid common pitfalls, and grow in their passion for healthcare.

There are a lot of careers to choose from in healthcare…

I’ve found that planning my future is like wading through alphabet soup: there are acronyms everywhere. MD, JD, PhD… It almost makes me want to resign myself to being a BCSFL (Broke College Student For Life).

However, in the spirit of powering through, I decided to take a closer look at each of the options I was considering. It’s common knowledge that “MD” stands for “Doctor of Medicine” and “PhD” for “Doctor of Philosophy.” It always seemed obvious that a student who aspires to become a clinician would attend medical school to earn an MD, while one who aspires to become an academic researcher or professor would attend graduate school to earn a PhD.

Those distinctions seemed simple enough – until I stumbled upon the concept of a dual doctorate, an “MD-PhD.” Someone who takes on both of these titles essentially becomes a Physician-Scientist.

If you, like me, are intrigued by this concept, read on! I hope I can answer a few questions you might have.

“I’ve found that planning my future is like wading through alphabet soup: there are acronyms everywhere. MD, JD, PhD… It almost makes me want to resign myself to being a BCSFL (Broke College Student For Life).”

What Exactly Is an MD-PhD?

Logically, an MD-PhD is a combination of a medical doctorate and a philosophical doctorate. But what about the specifics? Why would someone want to pursue an MD-PhD? What are the advantages of obtaining a dual doctorate over just an MD? What would an MD-PhD cost me in terms of time, money, and academic commitment?

To answer those questions, I turned to the savior of my generation: Google. After a lot of digging, here is what I learned.

Broadly speaking, the process of earning an MD-PhD trains students for clinically-oriented research . In other words, MD-PhD candidates work to solve biomedical issues by conducting studies and developing new techniques in the lab or in the field. Some also treat patients in clinical settings, but they must have a strong focus on research.

While most MD-PhD students complete their dissertation research in a biomedical discipline, the PhD portion of the program can include any area of study, from sociology to health care economics . The Association of American Medical Colleges points out that most MD-PhDs wind up working in “academic medical centers,” e.g. medical schools or teaching hospitals.

“Broadly speaking, the process of earning an MD-PhD trains students for clinically-oriented research. In other words, MD-PhD candidates work to solve biomedical issues by conducting studies and developing new techniques in the lab or in the field.”

Do you want research or patient care?

If you’re considering an MD-PhD, you first need to ask yourself how you see research fitting into your future. Dr. Lawrence F. Brass, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s medical school, writes that “combined degree programs are intended to be preparation for a research-driven career; most MD-PhD graduates spend much more time on research than on clinical practice.” Clinical practice is a canvas for the art of research discovery, where “…research (is translated) into new therapeutic and diagnostic approaches.”

In other words, if you are primarily invested in research with an accompanying interest in clinical practice, an MD-PhD program may be a good fit for you. If you are pursuing medicine because of an inclination towards working with patients on a daily basis in a clinical setting, you may find yourself frustrated in academia.

“If you are pursuing medicine because of an inclination towards working with patients on a daily basis in a clinical setting, you may find yourself frustrated in academia.”

Of course, once you launch your career, you would be free to decide for yourself how much time to spend on research as opposed to medical practice. Regardless, it’s important to consider whether research is integral enough to your future career to justify the time, money, and energy investments that a dual doctorate program requires. If the idea of spending the rest of your career steeped in academia is not attractive for you, it doesn’t make sense for you to spend the time and money on a dual degree.

An important trap to avoid falling into is thinking that having MD-PhD (instead of just MD) is going to be worth the extra time and money simply for the prestige of having a dual degree, or because of the potential to make more money than a primary care physician. Pursuing a degree for these reasons is only going to lead to exhaustion and unhappiness– the telltale signs of physician burnout.

Speaking of the amount of time it takes to earn an MD-PhD, on average, completing an MD-PhD program takes 7 to 8 years – although the time frame actually ranges from less than 6 years to more than 8 years.

This variability stems from the fact that research is inherently unpredictable. In seeking to discover something new, you have to contend with several possibilities: the results you obtain may not match your initial theory, the data collection process may take longer than you predicted, or your observations may lead you down an entirely different path from the one on which you originally embarked.

Oh, the joys of science!

“It’s important to consider whether research is integral enough to your future career to justify the time, money, and energy investments that a dual doctorate program requires.”

Thus, MD-PhD programs are susceptible to the same complicating factors that may hinder, lengthen, or curtail the process of obtaining a PhD. So ask yourself: are you willing to embrace those possibilities and contend with the complicating factors? Do you love research enough to justify the extensive time and energy investments? Only you can answer those questions.

Now, pursuing an MD-PhD is certainly not the only path you can take to become a physician-scientist. Many successful researchers – and Nobel Prize winners – never obtained their PhDs. However, as Dr. Brass points out, graduate school is meant to train students “in the art and science of investigation, including the skills needed to be an independent investigator.”

In contrast, an MD program generally does not include academic research training – meaning that an MD who later pursues a research career will have to spend extra time learning advanced research skills and techniques. Additionally, completing academic research in an MD-PhD program gives students a head start with research grants and publications. A report by the National Institutes of Health revealed that, in 2012, MD-PhDs were awarded Research Project Grants (RPGs) at higher rates than either MDs or PhDs ; 24.6% of MD-PhD applicants were awarded, as opposed to 21.7% of MDs and 21.4% of PhDs. More on how to finance your dual degree later on.

If you’re interested in becoming a physician-scientist but aren’t prepared to commit to an MD-PhD program at the time of application, take heart that there are institutions that allow first or second year medical students to transfer into their MD-PhD programs, and even programs that only consider MD-PhD candidates following a year or two of medical school. 

Furthermore, it is possible to complete “…an extended postdoctoral fellowship after (or instead of) a clinical residency” following MD programs as yet another alternative for aspiring physician scientists who don’t complete an MD-PhD program.

Bottom line: you don’t need an MD-PhD to receive research education and training, or to conduct and publish valuable scientific research, but obtaining a dual doctorate would definitely give you an edge

“Ask yourself: Are you willing to embrace those possibilities and contend with the complicating factors? Do you love research enough to justify the extensive time and energy investments?”

Financing an MD-PhD

Let’s say you determine that conducting research is a vital part of your future career and that the best way to achieve your goals is by obtaining an MD-PhD. You still need to consider one more question: how will you finance your higher education and training?

Fortunately, most institutions provide some support for MD-PhD students in the form of stipends and tuition scholarships , though the amount and duration vary by institution.

ProFellow , a reputed global fellowship database, lists nine institutions that provide full funding for all students admitted to their MD-PhD programs:

Dartmouth university, duke university, harvard/mit (joint program), johns hopkins university, mayo clinic, university of florida, university of pennsylvania, university of southern california, yale university.

It goes without saying that these programs are extremely selective, especially since some of them will also require you to have taken the GRE as well as the MCAT. On top of that, many of them are Ivy League institutions with extremely low acceptance rates. Here are Harvard’s guidelines for admission into their MD-PhD program. Note that Harvard actually does not require applicants to have taken the GRE, but mentions that most programs will.

Don’t count yourself out right away, though; if you have the right credentials and have steadily built up clinical and research experience, earning a seat is certainly not impossible. The credentials to earn a seat in one of these programs may be higher, but the overall number of students applying for them will be lower than the number of students applying to a normal MD program.

The National Institutes of Health also sponsor the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) , a scholarship opportunity for nearly one thousand MD-PhD candidates across the United States that finances full tuition, living expenses, and a stipend for the duration of full time MD-PhD studies , and that requires a separate application after being admitted to one of the 48 MD-PhD programs covered by the MSTP.

Given that the number of MD-PhD applicants is a modest count of 1,900 yearly , it is likely that if you meet the very competitive admissions qualifications for these NIH-funded programs, you will exit your dual-doctorate education debt-free. At Duke University School of Medicine, for example, this scholarship was valued at nearly $90,000 for the 2016-2017 school year, or $720,000 over the course of a typical eight years of MD-PhD study.

Yes, you read that right. $720,000.

In comparison, the average MD graduate in 2016 owed $190,000 , an amount that would easily accrue to double that value over a 30-year repayment period. The funding of these programs drastically offsets the opportunity cost of the time investment of a dual doctorate. This should be taken into special consideration as an undergraduate pre-med interested in becoming a physician scientist, as your MD education likely won’t be covered if you decide to pursue your PhD after completing your MD, in place of completing the degrees concurrently in an MD-PhD program.

Now you know: I wasn’t joking when I said planning for the future means battling a plethora of acronyms. However, before you chart your course, you need to identify your interests, values, and priorities. Remember to ask yourself these fundamental questions:

How important is research to you?

What are you willing to commit time and energy to, without sacrificing your sanity, what practical aspects do you have to consider when deciding your higher education and training.

Piece together these answers, one by one, and your vision of the future will gradually begin taking shape. Remember that in some cases, you can transition into a dual MD-PhD program after you have already begun medical school, so if you find yourself on the fence, consider applying to a medical school where this is an option, and take the time to feel out the program for yourself.

So what will it be? An MD? A PhD? An MD-PhD? The world is your oyster – or, I suppose, your bowl of alphabet soup.

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Two Atlantis alumni admitted to Top 5 MD programs wrote our widely read medical school admissions guidebook guidebook — download yours.

Get our 76-page medical school admissions guidebook, by atlantis alumni at harvard medical school and stanford school of medicine., our alumni enter great medical schools.

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John Daines

  • Atlantis '17
  • Brigham Young University '19
  • Washington U. in St. Louis MD '23

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Zoey Petitt

  • U. of Arizona '18
  • Duke MD '23

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Hungary ’17 || University of Arizona (undergraduate) ’18

Completed Atlantis Program Location and Date:

Hungary, Summer 2017

Do you believe your Atlantis experience helped you get into your graduate program?

I believe it was very helpful.

Generally, why do you think Atlantis helped you get into your graduate program?

For me, my Atlantis experience played a key role in confirming my decision to go into medicine. This was important for me to discuss during the admissions process.

Specifically, did you talk about Atlantis in your interviews?

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Yong-hun Kim

  • Stanford '19
  • Mayo Clinic MD '24

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Yong-Hun Kim

Budapest, Hungary ’17 || Stanford University

Budapest, Hungary – Winter 2017

Undergraduate:

Stanford University class of 2019

Computer Science

Bio-X Grant (award for research)

Undergraduate Activities:

President and Founder of Stanford Undergraduate Hospice and Palliative Care, Volunteer for Pacific Free Clinic, Research Assistant in Wernig Pathology Lab, President of Hong Kong Student Association, violin performance

Describe Atlantis in three words:

Eye-opening. Spontaneous. Exhilarating.

Why did you choose Atlantis?

I chose the Atlantis program because it combines opportunities to shadow physicians and travel abroad, both of which I had little prior exposure to.

What was your favorite experience as an Atlantis participant?

My favorite experience as an Atlantis participant came in the stories exchanged over meals or excursions and the breadth of conversation that reflected the diversity of backgrounds within our cohort and site managers.

What was the most meaningful aspect of your time shadowing?

I appreciated the chance to speak with physicians in Budapest and hear their personal motivations for pursuing medicine because it really helped better contextualize and validate my own interest in medicine. The physicians were also just really welcoming, relatable, and down-to-earth people.

How has Atlantis helped equip you for the future?

The Atlantis program has equipped me with a better understanding of what a career in medicine looks like, which I think is an invaluable gift considering the long road ahead of those who aspire to be a physician.

How has Atlantis equipped you for active leadership in the medical field?

The ability to interact and empathize with patients of diverse backgrounds and communities is a necessity to be a leader in the medical field. I think the Atlantis program, through my interactions with mentors and their patients, has helped me take my first steps toward attaining the cultural vocabulary and literacy required of a physician.

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Megan Branson

  • Atlantis '18
  • U. of Montana '19
  • U. of Washington MD '24

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Sarah Emerick

  • Atlantis '19
  • Eckerd College '20
  • Indiana U. MD '25

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Snow Nwankwo

  • Catholic U. of America '21
  • Georgetown U. MD '26

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  • Atlantis '16
  • U. of Maryland '17
  • U. of Michigan MD '22

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Tereul, Spain ’16 || U Michigan Medical School

Teruel, Spain – Summer 2016

University of Maryland class of 2017

Admitted medical student at:

University of Michigan Medical School

Neurobiology

Honors Integrated Life Sciences Program, Banneker/Key Scholarship

Extracurricular Activities:

American Medical Student Association Co-President & Advocacy Day Liaison, Alternative Breaks Experience Leader, Health Professions Advising Office Student Advisory Board, Biology Teach Assistant, Health Leads, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, NIH Research Intern, Physicians for Social Responsibility Environment & Health Intern

Describe Atlantis in Three Words:

Educational. Eye-opening. Exhilarating.

I wanted to expand my horizons and understand a culture of health different from the ones I am accustomed to. I had shadowed doctors in the United States and Taiwan prior to my Atlantis program experience, and being able to see first-hand the healthcare system in Spain allowed me to draw comparisons between the different complex healthcare systems.

Bonding with the other participants and celebrating our time together along with the doctors we shadowed. We would discuss our interests, passions, and motivation for medicine, and it was an incredible experience to learn from and alongside them.

What was your experience with the doctors you were shadowing?

Because of the pre-established relationships with the hospitals in which we shadowed, all the doctors were very welcoming and accommodating. They were willing to translate for us and explain in detail all of their medical decisions. My doctors and I had wonderful conversations about the differences between life in Spain vs. the United States.

I was excited to scrub in on surgeries and watch as the doctor explained what he was doing throughout the operation. Before and after surgeries, as well as in my other rotations, I observed how the doctors reassured and communicated with their patients. I was able to glean insight into differences between the experience of health in Spain versus the United States through observation as well as conversations with the doctors.

Besides the wealth of medical knowledge I gained from shadowing the doctors, I challenged myself to step outside of my cultural comfort zone and explore more than I thought I was capable of. Atlantis allowed me to make connections with people from all around the United States and abroad, and the friendships I gained helped me learn so much more than I would have on my own.

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  • Louisiana Tech '20
  • U. of Arkansas MD '24

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Libson, Portugal ’18 || Louisiana Tech

Completed Atlantis Program Location(s):

Lisbon, Portugal

Year of most recent program:

Fall ’17 – Summer ’18

Season of most recent program:

Extremely helpful

It exposed me to shadowing that was hard to come by in the states. It also gave me a chance to see other systems of healthcare.

Specifically, did you talk about Atlantis in your interviews? If so, how much relative to other topics?

Yes – they wanted to know about my experience, and specifically how the healthcare I saw in another country compared to what I had seen in the USA.

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Kayla Riegler

  • U. of Kentucky '20
  • U. of Kentucky MD '24

phd full form in medical

About Atlantis

Atlantis is the leader in pre-health shadowing and clinical experience, offering short-term programs (1-10 weeks) over academic breaks for U.S. pre-health undergraduates. Medical schools want 3 things: (1)healthcare exposure, (2)GPA/MCAT, and (3)certain competencies. Atlantis gives you a great version of (1), frees you to focus on (2), and cultivates/ shows (3) to medical school admissions committees.

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PhD Full Form

What is the full form of phd.

The full form of PhD is Doctor of Philosophy . In some countries, Ph. D also termed as DPhil or D.Phil. A doctorate holder can use the word ‘Dr.’ before their name and be considered as a doctor. Ph. D curriculum is the most notable training in a profession and a man graduating with a PhD is considered to be highly qualified in his sector.

It is an internationally recognized PG program which requires years of study, so one has to publish and access his work to receive a PhD. Most doctoral degrees require completion of the coursework, detailed exams and a thesis and need at least three years of guidance for the research.

Eligibility criteria

  • Candidates can only pursue a PhD course if they have completed their Master’s degree in a particular field or course or stream where they intend to start a PhD.
  • Some universities also clearly state candidates must have done an MPhil to undertake a PhD course they are offering.
  • Nonetheless, several colleges require that candidates fulfil the qualifications they offer for PhD programs whether they have cleared UGC NET.
  • Candidates who wish to pursue a PhD in Engineering must have a justifiable GATE score.

Objectives of the PhD course

  • PhD is one of the standards and most prestigious academic degrees awarded by any institution.
  • The primary goal of the doctoral degrees is to educate the next generation of leading researchers and scientists.

List of a subject in which PhD degree is offered

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

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PhD Full Form: Key Functions and Benefits

Pallavi Pradeep Purbey Image

Pallavi Pradeep Purbey ,

Mar 4, 2024

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Wondering what the Full form of PhD is? Read this article to know more about PhD Full Form, eligibility criteria, key functions of a PhD, and more.

PhD Full Form: Key Functions and Benefits

What Is The Full Form Of PhD?

PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy. PhD is a three to six year long doctorate course that has many specializations under it. It is an academic degree through which students are given a chance to learn about research and concepts in a great depth and detail. 

While PhD Full Form in India stands for Doctor of Philosophy, PhD is also known as D.Phil [Doctor of Philosophy] in abroad countries. When pursuing PhD, students are presented with many specializations, including Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Botany Zoology, etc. Computer science, Biotechnology, Nursing, IT, Agriculture, Nautical Science, Chemistry, Physics, etc.

Key Highlights of PhD Program

Eligibility criteria for phd course, who should pursue a phd course, how to get into phd.

  • Key Functions Of PhD 

Benefits of PhD Qualification

Future prospects after phd qualification.

Given below are the key highlights of the PhD course:

  • The PhD course is a three to six year long doctoral program.
  • It is a research based course.
  • The students can pursue PhD in many different fields and streams, depending on their postgraduate degree.

Given below are the eligibility criteria for the PhD course:

  • Students should pass their postgraduate  with a minimum aggregate of 50% from a recognised university.
  • The students should give the required entrance exams.
  • There is no age limit for the PhD course admission.
  • In their postgraduate degree, it is recommended that the students pursue the specialization they intend to do a PhD in.

PhDs are a crucial component of the knowledge economy. The main goals of completing a PhD are knowledge creation, knowledge discovery, and skill development. It's a degree designed for people who want to know more in-depth about a certain subject.

Students must ensure that they are aware of the qualifying requirements in order to be admitted to the PhD programme.

Students then need to research the college's entrance requirements. Some colleges offer merit-based admissions, while others may demand entrance examinations.

Students can fill out the application for admission on the college's website or in person at the on-campus admissions office.

Key Functions Of PhD  

The main goal is to advance the field by applying an existing body of knowledge, research and theory. Students focus on securing a high academic position and conducting theoretical research. Students seek to solve practical problems in a particular field.

The objectives of an effective doctorate or PhD are as follows - 

  • Expand the limits of what is currently known as creative work and high quality
  • The ability to design, design and perform research that is truly educational, targeted and demonstrative
  • A structured understanding of the topic and the management of skills and techniques associated with this topic
  • The ability to analyze, evaluate and develop new and complex ideas
  • The ability to continuously improve technological, social or cultural progress in terms of education and expertise
  • Satisfactory standards in line with national and international peer-reviewed publications

The benefits of a PhD Qualification are:

  • Career Boost : One of the greatest benefits of obtaining an a PhD degree is an enhanced employment opportunity, while also expecting a greater income and a higher status.
  • Recognition : A PhD is generally regarded as a prestigious and well-recognized degree, since it is tough to get and are acknowledged and valued at all levels.
  • Improved Professional Network : While pursuing a PhD, one will interact with many individuals, superiors, mentors and peers both inside and beyond the University.
  • Knowledge : The knowledge gained through extensive research and expertise in the profession is not just theoretical, but also useful in solving problems, and judging various scenarios.
  • High Salary : Having a PhD suggests that you’re well-versed in advanced knowledge. The more extensive your knowledge, the better your compensation is likely to be. 
  • Gain Marketable Skills : Complex problem-solving and critical thinking are the top two skills that a PhD holder gains and also what the recruiters/company need in today’s workplace.

A PhD opens up a lot of fantastic prospects in the academic realm. In an academic setting, you can work as a professor or an assistant professor in a university. Even teaching is required by some colleges.

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  • What is The Full Form of PhD?

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PhD Full Form - Doctor of Philosophy

The term Ph.D. stands for Doctor of Philosophy. It is a doctoral degree that can be obtained after finishing three years. However, the candidates can also complete the course within a time span of about 5 to 6 years. The full form of Ph.D. is Doctor of Philosophy. In some countries, It is also called Ph.D., DPhil, or DPhil.

Earlier candidates could finish the course having Ph.D. full form through the distance mode. However, a circular issued by UGC in 2017 has stated that a Ph.D. degree obtained through distance education will no longer be recognized.

Some of the Popular Ph.D. Courses

Though most courses offered by the degree having full form Ph.D. are known to provide excellent employment opportunities, however, the chances of getting a job further increase if you choose an accessible course. Some of the specializations that can help you in finding a good job are Ph.D. in Humanities, Ph.D. in Arts, Ph.D. in English, Ph.D. in Economics, Ph.D. in Zoology, Ph.D. in Chemistry, etc.

Skills Required for Completing the Ph.D. Courses

A candidate aspiring for a course that has the full meaning of a Ph.D. should have some unique skills to gain success in the field. Some of these qualities are inquisitiveness, good researching capabilities, dedication, hard-working nature, and excellent writing ability. While some traits are inborn, others can be obtained through the course. Proper nurturing of the qualities helps the candidates become successful in their lives.

Eligibility Criteria of Candidates Wanting to Pursue the Ph.D. Courses

Candidates wishing to pursue the course having Ph.D. full form and meaning should meet the eligibility criteria to be successful. The following section will give an idea about the eligibility of candidates wanting to complete the course:

The candidate needs to have a master's degree in the same course or field.

Some colleges also want the candidate to have completed an MPhil to pursue a Ph.D.

Apart from these, some colleges might have separate criteria.

The candidates have to fulfill these in order to study in the college.

Dos and Don’ts During the Ph.D. Course

If the candidates want to pursue the course having a Ph.D. full form, then they will have to follow some Dos and Don’ts during their college days. These are-

Avoid contact with unknown people.

Attend the classes regularly.

Listen attentively to the teachers.

Read the instructions properly before using any equipment.

Benefits of a PhD 

Getting a Ph.D. can benefit you in a lot of ways. No matter what field you are in, a Ph.D. candidate is preferred more than a Non-PhD candidate almost every time. That is why you should pursue Ph.D. in your respective field. Below are some benefits of a Ph.D.

Career Boost

One of the significant benefits of getting a Ph.D. is the increase in the number of employment opportunities. Once you have obtained a Ph.D., there will be a high chance for you to get a job. Moreover, a Ph.D. ensures higher pay and status no matter what field or company you are working in. You can also gain more experience in your field with a Ph.D. course and even start teaching in colleges and universities.  

Recognition  

A Ph.D. degree comes with prestige and recognition. Ph.D. is considered one of the prestigious and recognized degrees in every field. Since these degrees are a little tough to obtain, you will be acknowledged in society once you have completed the course. 

Improved Professional Network  

When you are pursuing your Ph.D., you will get to interact and talk with some of the best teachers and experts in the field. This way, you can broaden your professional network and collaborate with your peers and researchers. 

Knowledge  

The most significant benefit of a Ph.D. is the knowledge that you gain throughout the course. A Ph.D. course allows you to explore more about your field of interest and gain all the knowledge about it. You can use your knowledge and understanding in solving problems that concern your field or profession. 

Higher Salary  

As you gain more knowledge in your field with a Ph.D., your compensation or remuneration will be much higher than non-PhD candidates. Having a Ph.D. degree means you have extensive knowledge in your respective area of interest, which makes you a preferred candidate for most companies.

Gain Marketable Skills  

When you pursue a Ph.D. course, you must have problem-solving skills and critical thinking ability. You can polish these skills throughout the course and improve your chances of getting a job too. Almost every company is looking for employees who can tackle complex problems with ease. So, the employer will prefer you over others if you have a Ph.D. degree in the respective area. 

It is clear from the above that the course having the full meaning of a Ph.D. is one of the best courses for a candidate. However, to be successful, the candidate has to study hard during the exams. However, there is no poverty of opportunities for a candidate pursuing the course. So aspirants hoping for a good career can easily opt for the course

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FAQs on What is The Full Form of PhD?

1. What is the Duration of a Ph.D. Course?

Normally a Ph.D. course extends for about 3 years. The candidates have to submit their thesis or journal within a maximum time period of five to six years. The time is taken to complete the course also depends on the research topic chosen by a candidate.

2. Is a Master's Degree Required for Pursuing a Ph.D. Program?

Candidates aspiring to pursue a Ph.D. program in any Indian university are required to complete their Master’s degree in the respective field of study. But candidates can get admission to a Ph.D. program in the US universities right after completion of their undergraduate courses.

3. How much stipend do Ph.D. students get in India?

In India, Ph.D. students are eligible to receive a stipend of 25000INR per month during the initial two years. For the next three years of the Ph.D. course, students are eligible to receive a stipend of 28000 INR per month.

4. How can I learn Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy?

You can learn Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy from Vedantu’s online learning platform. We provide you with the best platform to learn the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy and who is important. You don’t have to pay any registration fees to Vedantu in order to learn this concept. Apart from the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy, you can learn various other full forms from our educational platform. Here, you will find all the acronyms along with their detailed meanings, including NEET, IIT, MBBS, NCERT, and much more. To start learning with Vedantu, you can either visit our website or download the Vedantu app from the play store or the app store, whichever is more convenient for you.

5. Is it necessary to learn the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy?

Yes, it is necessary to learn the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy. If you are going into the medical field, learning about the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy will be quite important for you. Once you have done your graduation and obtained your master’s degree, you can go for your Ph.D. in the respective field. So, if you are pursuing a Ph.D., you should know the full form along with its meaning. You can learn the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy from Vedantu’s website or mobile application.

6. Why should you learn the Ph.D.? Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy? 

Learning the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy is quite necessary if you are pursuing a Ph.D. program after your graduation or masters. You can learn the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy from Vedantu’s website and understand why it is important for the course. Moreover, by learning the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy, you can understand the meaning and importance of a Ph.D. degree. It will help you gain more knowledge about the Ph.D. course you want to pursue. You should learn the Ph.D. Full-Form - Doctor of Philosophy as it is a term that you come across oftentimes in your life.

IMAGES

  1. What is a Ph.D. Program and Types of Ph.D. Degrees?

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  2. PHD Full Form, Benefits and admission process

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  3. Full Form of PhD

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  4. PhD Full Form: Understanding The Meaning And Benefits Of A Doctorate Degree

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  5. PHD Full Form

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  6. PHD Full Form, What is the Full form of PHD?

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COMMENTS

  1. "M.D." vs. "Ph.D." vs. "Dr.": Are They Synonyms?

    Moving on to initials that carry more weight than a nod from Bugs, let's look at M.D.s. M.D., which can be used with or without the periods (M.D. or MD) is the designation for a medical doctor. This is earned by attending medical school (typically a four-year program after completing at least one undergraduate degree, plus a residency program ...

  2. What Does 'PhD' Stand For?

    A PhD is a terminal academic degree students typically pursue when they're interested in an academic or research career. A PhD is the highest possible academic degree a student can obtain. PhD stands for "Doctor of Philosophy," which refers to the immense knowledge a student gains when earning the degree. While you can actually get a PhD in ...

  3. MD-PhD, Combined Degree < Johns Hopkins University

    The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine offers a variety of opportunities for the training of medical scientists. A combined curriculum leading to both MD and PhD degrees enables students who aspire to careers in academic medicine to obtain intensive training in specialized areas of the biomedical sciences in addition to top-flight medical training.

  4. Doctor of Philosophy

    A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, Ph.D., or DPhil; Latin: philosophiae doctor or doctor philosophiae) is the most common degree at the highest academic level, awarded following a course of study and research. The degree is abbreviated PhD and sometimes, especially in the U.S., as Ph.D. It is derived from the Latin Philosophiae Doctor, pronounced as three separate letters (/ p iː eɪ tʃ ˈ d iː ...

  5. Explained: What Is a PhD Degree?

    The typical length of a PhD is three to four years full-time, or five to six years part-time. ... The PhD is the oldest and most common form of higher research degree, but a few alternatives are available. Some, such as the DPhil are essentially identical to a PhD. Others, such as the Professional Doctorate or DBA are slightly different.

  6. What is the Full Form of PhD?

    The full form of a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. It is an advanced academic degree that is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to their chosen field of study. The degree is recognised globally and is highly regarded in the academic community. PhD can also be called a DPhil or D. Phil.

  7. PhD Definition & Meaning

    The meaning of PHD is the academic degree, title, or rank of doctor of philosophy; also : a person who has earned the academic degree of doctor of philosophy. How to use PhD in a sentence.

  8. MD-PhD

    The Doctorate of Medicine and of Philosophy (MD-PhD) is a dual doctoral degree for physician-scientists, combining the professional training of the Doctor of Medicine degree with the research expertise of the Doctor of Philosophy degree; the Ph.D. is the most advanced credential in the United States. Other dual degree programs exist, such as the joint MD-JD degree; both the JD ...

  9. Harvard/MIT MDPhD Program

    Funding. The Harvard/MIT MD-PhD Program at Harvard Medical School (HMS) has been sponsored in part by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through its Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) since 1974. All MD-PhD student applicants to our program compete on equal footing for MSTP support, regardless of scientific interest.

  10. What Is a PhD?

    A Doctor of Philosophy, often known as a PhD, is a terminal degree —or the highest possible academic degree you can earn in a subject. While PhD programs (or doctorate programs) are often structured to take between four and five years, some graduate students may take longer as they balance the responsibilities of coursework, original research ...

  11. MD vs PhD: Difference and Comparison

    Main Differences Between MD and PhD. The full form of MD is Doctor of Medicine, and the complete form of PhD is Doctor of philosophy. MD is a higher degree in medicine, whereas a PhD is a higher degree that can be done in various fields. It takes four to seven years to complete the MD degree, while it can take four to seven years to obtain a PhD.

  12. PhD. Full Form: What Is The Full Form Of PhD?

    PhD. Full Form - The Full form of PhD. is Doctor of Philosophy. Learn more about PhD. Eligibility, specification, advantages, job opportunities etc from Careers360.com. ... An oncologist is a specialised doctor responsible for providing medical care to patients diagnosed with cancer. He or she uses several therapies to control the cancer and ...

  13. PhD

    Abbreviation for: personal health data. pathological habit disorder. phage host defective. Philosophiæ Doctor (PhD) pleckstrin homology domain. potentially harmful drug. pretty heavy drinker. prolyl hydroxylase domain.

  14. What is a PhD?

    A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3-5 years writing a dissertation, which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge. A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher ...

  15. DNP vs Ph.D. in Nursing vs. MD: What's the Difference?

    A DNP (doctor of nursing practice) and Ph.D. in Nursing are vastly different than an MD (doctor of medicine). The former are highly-trained nurses, and the latter is a physician, with all the scope of practice allowances that come with that title. A "DNP" is an advanced-practice registered nurse who may specialize in the following roles: The ...

  16. PhD: Full Form, Eligibility, Admission 2024, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance

    What is a Full Form of PhD? PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy is a doctoral degree programme with a duration of three to six years. PhD degree can be pursued in almost any field such as English, Maths, Physics Linguistics, and Comparative Literature. ... An oncologist is a specialised doctor responsible for providing medical care to ...

  17. PhD Full Form, All You Need to Know About Ph.D.

    Conclusion - PhD Full Form. In conclusion, PhD, which stands for "Doctor of Philosophy," represents the pinnacle of academic achievement and expertise in a specific field of study. It is characterized by a rigorous research focus, the completion of a substantial thesis or dissertation, and a commitment to advancing knowledge in the chosen ...

  18. What is an MD-PhD Dual Degree?

    At Duke University School of Medicine, for example, this scholarship was valued at nearly $90,000 for the 2016-2017 school year, or $720,000 over the course of a typical eight years of MD-PhD study. Yes, you read that right. $720,000. In comparison, the average MD graduate in 2016 owed $190,000, an amount that would easily accrue to double that ...

  19. PhD Full Form

    The full form of PhD is Doctor of Philosophy. In some countries, Ph. D also termed as DPhil or D.Phil. A doctorate holder can use the word 'Dr.' before their name and be considered as a doctor. Ph. D curriculum is the most notable training in a profession and a man graduating with a PhD is considered to be highly qualified in his sector.

  20. PhD: Full Form, Admission 2024, Courses, Degree, Entrance Exams

    The full form of PhD is Doctor of Philosophy derived from the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor. PhD is the highest degree or doctorate awarded for research in a particular subject. ... PhD Courses: Medical stream. Ph. D. courses in Medical stream covers all the major areas of medicine including Neurology, epidemiology, genetics as well as various ...

  21. PHD Medical Abbreviation Meaning

    Discover Medical Abbreviations: Dive deeper into a comprehensive list of top-voted Medical Acronyms and Abbreviations. Explore PHD Definitions: Discover the complete range of meanings for PHD, beyond just its connections to Medical. Expand Your Knowledge: Head to our Home Page to explore and understand the meanings behind a wide range of acronyms and abbreviations across diverse fields and ...

  22. PhD Full Form: Key Functions and Benefits

    PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy. PhD is a three to six year long doctorate course that has many specializations under it. It is an academic degree through which students are given a chance to learn about research and concepts in a great depth and detail. While PhD Full Form in India stands for Doctor of Philosophy, PhD is also known as D ...

  23. PhD Full Form

    UPSC full form. The term Ph.D. stands for Doctor of Philosophy. It is a doctoral degree that can be obtained after finishing three years. However, the candidates can also complete the course within a time span of about 5 to 6 years. The full form of Ph.D. is Doctor of Philosophy. In some countries, It is also called Ph.D., DPhil, or DPhil.

  24. MD Full Form, PhD Full Form, LLD Full Form

    PhD Full Form is Doctor of Philosophy. Doctor of Philosophy can be abbreviated to Ph.D, DPhil, D.P, pH. PhD course is a 5-6 year research based program on a specific topic. ... It is a 3 year research program in the medical field, which the candidates generally pursue after the MBBS degree for higher studies. The average MD course fee is INR 10 ...