What are the Benefits of an Honorary PhD?

You must have seen someone very famous and successful getting an Honorary PhD from a University. They simply wear a cap and gown and pose for photos just like normal graduates. From that day, they even get called ‘Doctor’.

At some point in time, you must have wondered what exactly this award is. And what are the benefits of getting one? Is it just for show, or does it actually mean something? In this blog, we will be breaking this down in simple words. We will also explore why an Honorary Doctorate still holds value when there are already other doctoral programs, like regular PhD and Part-Time PhD.

What is an Honorary PhD Program?

Before discussing the benefits of this program, it is very important to know what this program actually is. An Honorary Doctorate is a token of respect given to someone who has made an unprecedented contribution in a specific field. This program is also known as Doctor Honoris Causa. It is awarded by some of the top-tier universities across the globe. It is a mark of honour for individuals who have brought positive change to a specific field or society through their contributions. These exceptional contributions and achievements can be in any domain, such as art, science, social service, politics, or business.

The award of the honorary doctorate is much different from a regular PhD or a Part-Time PhD. Unlike these traditional doctorates, which require extensive research, coursework, a dissertation, and a viva, this recognition is provided based on the accomplishments of the individuals. A formal academic requirement is not needed to get this award.

Benefits of an Honorary PhD

Honorary PhD provides a range of benefits to the individuals receiving it. Although it is not as effective as the traditional PhDs, the acknowledgement offered is truly worth it. Here are some of the benefits of this program- 

• Recognition of Lifelong Contributions- The Honorary PhD validates and recognises your contributions in a true sense. This degree acknowledges your lifelong dedication and excellence either towards your field or to society. This recognition boosts the credibility of your work. Moreover, it serves as inspiration for those who are working tirelessly to bring significant change.
• Enhanced Social and Professional Standing- An Honorary Doctoral degree provides significant social and professional standing. You must be aware of what type of prestige a “Dr.” brings to a particular individual. Although you may not be able to use this title for academic or legal purposes like a regular PhD or a Part-Time PhD. But still, it holds a comprehensive symbolic weight. This honorary title can be highly beneficial for you in social spheres. You get access to public speaking opportunities, advisory roles, board memberships, and media appearances.
• Recognition Without Actual Research- You need not conduct actual research to get this award. Honorary Doctorates are provided without conventional coursework, original research, or thesis/dissertation as mandatory in regular PhD and Part-Time PhD. Individuals who could not complete their higher education due to family responsibilities, financial limitations, or just choosing a different life path. In most cases, these individuals start working early. This honor is provided based on their contributions and achievements rather than academic qualifications.
• Access to Global Platforms- Individuals who are awarded with Honorary PhD get global platforms. Individuals with this award get invitations to put their platforms on global issues. Moreover, they are frequently invited for guest lectures, public speaking, seminars, and webinars. This gives a significant boost to their branding and popularity.
• Easy Process- The Honorary Doctoral degrees are provided with a much easier process than any other doctorate. Instead of prolonged 5 to years required in other PhDs, Honorary PhD is a 1-day, 1-hour process. It is provided based on the nomination. This nomination can either be made by the university board itself or through self-nomination by the candidate. 

Notable Personalities Awarded With Honorary Doctorate In India

Here are some of the most popular personalities in India who have been awarded with Honorary PhD-

• Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam-  Awarded with multiple honorary degrees for excellent contributions in the field of Science, Technology, and Public Service.
• Ratan Tata- Awarded twice for his contributions to business and philanthropy.
• Amitabh Bachchan- Awarded for contributions to cinema and culture.
• Shah Rukh Khan- Awarded by the University of Edinburgh and the University of Bedfordshire for his outstanding contributions in film, Charity, and education.
• Sachin Tendulkar- Awarded for his distinguished contributions to cricket.
• Lata Mangeshkar- Awarded to acknowledge her contributions to Music and Performing Arts.

Conclusion

Honorary PhD is one of the best ways to recognise someone's extraordinary contribution and achievements to society, arts, science, business, or public service. This acknowledgement is awarded without any academic requirements such as coursework, research, or dissertation. It is highly beneficial for enhancing credibility and social prestige. This also gives access to global platforms and significantly adds to the personal branding of an individual.