Honorary Doctorate Degrees: Why They Matter More Than Ever
Few awards in the world of academia hold as much prestige as the honorary doctorate. Typically granted during university convocations or special events, this high degree is bestowed not for satisfactory completion of coursework or a dissertation, but for outstanding contributions to a specific field or to society in general. Whether it is bestowed upon a Nobel Laureate, a social activist, a pioneering entrepreneur, or a renowned artist, the honorary doctorate certifies excellence that goes beyond conventional academia. But what actually is an honorary doctorate? Why do institutions give them? And can an honorary title ever be equal to an earned doctoral degree? In this blog, we unpackage the meaning, importance, types, and controversies of honorary doctorates so you may better understand their worth in today's world. What Is an Honorary Doctorate? An honorary doctorate also officially called Doctor honoris causa (Latin for "for the sake of honor") is a degree conferred ...