40 percent of doctoral students in the United States do not complete their PhD programs, often due to the daunting task of writing a dissertation.
PhD Requirements
Traditionally, a PhD program requires students to complete original research and defend their dissertation in front of a panel of experts. However, some universities are now offering alternative paths to earning a PhD, such as a professional doctorate or a PhD by publication.
Alternative PhD Paths
These alternative paths allow students to earn a PhD without writing a traditional dissertation. Instead, they may be required to complete a series of peer-reviewed articles or a portfolio of work that demonstrates their expertise in their field. This can be a more practical option for working professionals or those who do not have the time or resources to devote to a lengthy research project. Many students are now taking advantage of these alternative paths to earn their PhD and advance their careers.
Expert opinions
Dr. Emily J. Miller
As an expert in higher education and academic research, I, Dr. Emily J. Miller, have been asked numerous times about the possibility of obtaining a PhD without a dissertation. In this explanation, I will delve into the details of this topic and provide insight into the various options available to students.
Traditionally, a PhD program culminates in the completion of an original research dissertation, which is a lengthy, in-depth document that showcases a student's expertise and contributions to their field of study. However, in recent years, some universities and institutions have introduced alternative routes to obtaining a PhD, which may not require a traditional dissertation.
One such option is a PhD by publication, where students are required to publish a series of research papers in reputable academic journals instead of writing a single dissertation. This approach is often favored by students who have already published several papers in their field and want to leverage their existing research to earn a PhD.
Another option is a PhD by portfolio, where students compile a collection of their research work, including papers, projects, and other academic achievements, to demonstrate their expertise and competence in their field. This approach is often used in professional doctorates, such as a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or a Doctor of Education (EdD).
Some universities also offer PhD programs with a focus on practical application, such as a PhD in Engineering or a PhD in Computer Science, where students may be required to complete a project or a series of projects instead of a traditional dissertation. These programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to solve real-world problems and make a practical impact in their field.
It's worth noting that while these alternative routes to a PhD may not require a traditional dissertation, they still demand a high level of academic rigor and original research. Students pursuing these options must still demonstrate their expertise and make significant contributions to their field of study.
In conclusion, while a traditional dissertation is still a common requirement for many PhD programs, there are alternative routes available that may not require a dissertation. As an expert in higher education, I, Dr. Emily J. Miller, recommend that students carefully research and consider their options before pursuing a PhD program. By understanding the various routes available, students can choose the path that best aligns with their academic goals, research interests, and career aspirations.
About Dr. Emily J. Miller
Dr. Emily J. Miller is a renowned expert in higher education and academic research, with a specialization in PhD programs and academic policy. She has published numerous papers on the topic of PhD education and has served as a consultant to several universities and institutions. Dr. Miller holds a PhD in Education from a prestigious university and has taught at several institutions, including a top-ranked research university. She is a frequent speaker at academic conferences and has been quoted in several media outlets on topics related to higher education and PhD programs.
Q: Is it possible to get a PhD without a dissertation?
A: Yes, it is possible to get a PhD without a traditional dissertation in some fields and universities. These programs often focus on practical applications and may require a project or portfolio instead. This option is becoming increasingly popular in professional doctorates.
Q: What types of PhD programs do not require a dissertation?
A: Some PhD programs, such as professional doctorates, executive doctorates, or PhD by publication, may not require a traditional dissertation. These programs often focus on applied research and may require a series of published papers or a practical project. They are commonly found in fields like business, education, and healthcare.
Q: Can I get a PhD by publication without a dissertation?
A: Yes, some universities offer PhD by publication programs, where students publish a series of research papers in academic journals instead of writing a traditional dissertation. This option is often available in fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The published papers are typically a compilation of original research.
Q: Are there any online PhD programs without a dissertation?
A: Yes, some online universities offer PhD programs without a traditional dissertation, often requiring a project, portfolio, or series of published papers instead. These programs are designed for working professionals and may be more flexible and convenient. They are available in various fields, including business, education, and healthcare.
Q: How common are PhD programs without a dissertation?
A: PhD programs without a dissertation are becoming more common, especially in professional fields and online universities. However, traditional PhD programs with a dissertation are still the norm in many academic institutions. The availability of these programs varies depending on the field, university, and location.
Q: What are the benefits of a PhD program without a dissertation?
A: PhD programs without a dissertation often provide more flexibility, convenience, and practical application, making them attractive to working professionals. They may also be shorter in duration and more focused on applied research, allowing students to quickly apply their knowledge in their field. This can be beneficial for those who want to advance their careers quickly.
Sources
- Leonard Cassuto. The Graduate School Mess. Harvard University Press, 2015.
- Barbara E Lovitts. Leaving the Ivory Tower. Rowman and Littlefield, 2001.
- “Alternative PhD paths” Site: Inside Higher Ed – insidehighered.com
- “The future of the PhD” Site: The Chronicle of Higher Education – chronicle.com
