GCAC-700
Degree Requirements - Professional Doctorate
adjust
Purpose
To define the minimum requirements for obtaining a professional doctoral degree.
school
Academic Goal
To ensure that all professional doctoral degree students are well grounded in the fundamental aspects of their discipline.
crop_free
Scope
All students enrolled in any program of study leading to a professional doctoral degree.
- Professional Doctoral Degree Program
- an integrated program of study combined with understanding of research literature to support application of knowledge to practice at the highest level, culminating in a project, portfolio, or performance that demonstrates expertise in professional practice. Students successfully completing a professional doctoral degree program are awarded the appropriate doctoral degree; professional doctoral degrees at Penn State include D.Ed., D.M.A., D.N.P., and Dr.P.H.
- Research Doctoral Degree Program
- an integrated program of study combined with investigation of a significant problem, question, or issue in the discipline, culminating in the completion of an original scholarly contribution (in the form of a dissertation) that expands the frontiers of knowledge. Students successfully completing a research doctoral degree program are awarded Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree.
Policy Statement
- The minimum credit requirements for a professional doctoral degree are:
- at least 30 credits at the 400, 500, or 800 level.
- at least 24 credits at the 500 or 800 level.
- Graduate programs can require additional credits above the minimum for the degree as approved through the Graduate Council curricular review process.
- Professional doctoral degrees must include a requirement for research education in the field as part of the program requirements. The program must specify how this requirement will be fulfilled in their program proposal.
- A culminating experience is required (see GCAC-707 Professional Doctoral Culminating Experience).
Procedure
Revision History
- Approved by Graduate Council, May 5, 2021. Effective date: Fall 2021 (08/16/2021).
- New policy.