Is PhD the highest degree you can earn?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of whether a PhD is the highest academic degree one can earn, exploring various academic hierarchies and systems in different countries. It includes both serious inquiries and humorous exchanges regarding academic titles and ranks.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the highest degree may vary by location, with references to different academic systems around the world.
  • One participant mentions that in Germany, a Habilitation is required for permanent academic positions, indicating a higher level of qualification beyond a PhD.
  • There are claims that multiple PhDs can be obtained, but the hierarchy of titles remains unclear and is humorously debated.
  • Participants introduce fictional titles and ranks, such as "Supreme Lard," in a playful manner, contributing to the lighthearted tone of the discussion.
  • Postdoctoral research is defined by one participant as scholarly research conducted after completing a PhD, aimed at deepening expertise in a specific area.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the hierarchy of academic degrees and titles, with no consensus on whether a PhD is the highest degree. The discussion includes both serious and humorous contributions, indicating a mix of perspectives.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying academic structures in different countries, with specific mention of Germany's Habilitation and the concept of higher titles like docent. The humorous exchanges may obscure the seriousness of the academic hierarchy topic.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in academic qualifications, international education systems, or the nuances of academic titles may find this discussion relevant.

Kutt
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Is a PhD the highest academic degree on can possibly earn? Or is there something above that level?
 
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Depends on where you live. A wiki search for Ph.D will give you all the information.
 
You could have multiple PhDs. But as far as higher, I think it goes Master, PhD, Rear Admiral, Field Marshall, Grand Marshall, and then Lord Commander [STRIKE]Militant[/STRIKE] Academic.
 
Where does Supreme Lard fit into all that?
 
Jimmy Snyder said:
Where does Supreme Lard fit into all that?

After bachelor but before colonel.
 
There are countries where you can earn higher degrees.
Germany is one example (and the only one I can think of a the moment), in order to be eligible for a permanent academic position in Germany you have to submit and a defend a so-called Habilitation.

I believe a few Asian countries have the same system.

Note that this is a controversial system because if effectively makes it more difficult for foreigners to apply for higher positions in academia in Germany, unless of course they do the habilitation first (and quite a few do).

There are also a few countries where you can obtain "higher titles" (not degrees) by demonstrating a good track record, one example would be the title of docent.
Being a docent can e.g. mean that you have the right to teach at a university.
 
FlexGunship said:
After bachelor but before colonel.
Nuh Uh! As The Supreme Lard, I rule all!
 
Evo said:
Nuh Uh! As The Supreme Lard, I rule all!

I'd like to order one supreme lard, extra sauce, and a diet coke. Oh, one Evo plushie too please. The green one this time, I already have all the other colors.
 
What is post-doctoral research?
 
  • #10
Kutt said:
What is post-doctoral research?

Postdoctoral research is scholarly research conducted by a person who has recently completed doctoral studies, normally within the first five years. It is intended to further deepen expertise in a specialist subject, including acquiring novel skills and methods.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-doctoral
 

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