Is PhD the highest degree you can earn?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the hierarchy of academic degrees, questioning whether a PhD is the highest attainable degree. It notes that in some countries, such as Germany, a Habilitation is required for permanent academic positions, which can complicate the path for foreign scholars. Additionally, some nations offer higher titles, like docent, based on professional achievements rather than formal degrees. The conversation also touches on postdoctoral research, which is a phase following a PhD aimed at enhancing expertise in a specific field. The dialogue includes humorous interjections about fictional titles, but the primary focus remains on the academic qualifications and their implications in different educational systems.
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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