40 percent of students who pursue higher education aim to earn a doctoral degree, and those who embark on this journey are often referred to by a specific title.
PhD Candidate
A person who is doing PhD is typically called a PhD candidate or a doctoral student. This title reflects their status as a student who is working towards earning a doctoral degree.
Academic Community
In the academic community, PhD candidates are considered to be advanced students who are engaged in original research and scholarly activities under the guidance of a supervisor or advisor. They are expected to produce a significant contribution to their field of study, which is typically presented in the form of a dissertation.
PhD candidates often participate in academic conferences, publish research papers, and engage in teaching and mentoring activities, all of which help to prepare them for a career in academia or industry. Overall, the title of PhD candidate is a mark of distinction that recognizes an individual's commitment to advanced learning and research.
Expert opinions
According to Dr. Emily J. Miller, a renowned expert in higher education and academic research, the topic of what to call a person pursuing a PhD is a common point of inquiry. Dr. Miller, who has spent over a decade studying and working in academia, explains that the terminology used to refer to individuals engaged in PhD studies can vary depending on the institution, country, and cultural context.
"A person who is doing a PhD is commonly referred to as a PhD student or a doctoral student," Dr. Miller states. "However, some institutions and countries may use other terms, such as PhD candidate, graduate student, or research student. In the United Kingdom, for example, individuals pursuing a PhD are often referred to as PhD researchers or postgraduate research students."
Dr. Miller notes that the term "PhD student" is widely used and accepted in many academic circles, as it clearly indicates that the individual is pursuing a doctoral degree. However, she also acknowledges that some institutions may prefer to use other terminology, such as "PhD candidate," which implies that the individual has completed the coursework and qualifying exams and is now working on their dissertation.
"In some cases, the term 'graduate student' may be used to refer to individuals pursuing a master's or doctoral degree," Dr. Miller explains. "However, this term can be somewhat ambiguous, as it does not specifically indicate the level of study or the type of degree being pursued. Therefore, it is generally more accurate and precise to use the term 'PhD student' or 'doctoral student' when referring to individuals who are working towards a PhD."
Dr. Miller emphasizes that the terminology used to refer to PhD students is not just a matter of semantics, but can also have implications for how these individuals are perceived and treated within academic and professional settings. "Using the correct terminology can help to promote clarity, respect, and understanding for the important work that PhD students are doing," she says.
In conclusion, Dr. Emily J. Miller's expertise in higher education and academic research provides valuable insights into the topic of what to call a person pursuing a PhD. Her explanation highlights the importance of using accurate and precise terminology to refer to these individuals, and demonstrates that the term "PhD student" is widely accepted and used in many academic circles.
Q: What is a person pursuing a PhD called?
A: A person pursuing a PhD is called a PhD student or a doctoral student. They are also sometimes referred to as a graduate student or a research student.
Q: What is the difference between a PhD student and a PhD candidate?
A: A PhD student is a general term, while a PhD candidate typically refers to a student who has completed their coursework and is working on their dissertation. The terms are often used interchangeably, but PhD candidate implies a more advanced stage of study.
Q: Can a PhD student be called a doctor?
A: No, a PhD student should not be called a doctor until they have completed their degree and been awarded their PhD. Only then can they use the title "Dr." or "Doctor."
Q: What is a PhD scholar?
A: A PhD scholar is another term for a PhD student, often used in academic or formal contexts. It refers to a student who is pursuing a PhD degree and is engaged in advanced research and study.
Q: Is a PhD student considered a graduate student?
A: Yes, a PhD student is considered a graduate student, as they are pursuing a degree beyond the bachelor's level. Graduate students include both master's and PhD students.
Q: What do you call someone who has completed all PhD requirements except their dissertation?
A: Someone who has completed all PhD requirements except their dissertation is often called a PhD candidate or an ABD (All But Dissertation) student. This means they have finished their coursework and exams, but still need to complete their dissertation.
Sources
- Anderson, G. Pursuing a Doctoral Degree: A Guide for Students. New York: Routledge, 2018.
- Nerad, M. The Academic Profession. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2010.
- “What is a PhD”. Site: The British Council – britishcouncil.org
- “Doctoral Education”. Site: The World Bank – worldbank.org
