May 12, 2020 · A PhD gives you the research skills, and those can transfer to other areas. If you have all those skills, you can get a lot of the information on your own and become an expert in another field. You know how to research and dive in and find people who can help you find other information, so if you need to know about a subject, you have the ... ... Find the Joint Masters and PhD Degree For You. Fulfill your interest in more than one disciplinary area in one of the dual masters and doctorate degree programs above. You can also complete the form on this page to get matched to the perfect program for you or discover 9 grad schools with Low GPA requirements. ... Mar 31, 2024 · This is where you highlight your unique perspective and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries that a dual doctorate can facilitate. Throughout your journey, collaboration is key. Engaging with faculty and peers across departments will enrich your research and open up new avenues of inquiry. ... Aug 25, 2023 · Dual degrees combine studies in two distinct but related fields, such as business and law. Earning two degrees together can increase your career options and salary potential. Dual degrees offer professional benefits, but tuition may be higher. Consider your career goals carefully to decide if you really need a dual degree. ... Dec 11, 2014 · Generally you cannot get two PhDs in the same field. One could get a second PhD in a second field. People who want to do research in multiple fields or in a multidisciplinary topic or wish to change fields may obtain multiple PhDs. Alternatively, as you suggest, people who want to remain students forever do that. ... May 21, 2018 · For example, people can get a PhD in philosophy, and if they are a pastor or just interested in religion, get one in Theology. Such people may also get PhD's in original languages like Hebrew and Greek. None-the-less, there are certainly reasons not to get more than one PhD: Life is short, and a lot of dedication goes into getting even one Ph.D. ... A Double Degree (DD) PhD means that you will obtain your PhD degree from two different institutions, i.e. a double diploma, sometimes also referred to as a "dual award". A double degree (two diplomas, each of which issued by a single university) should not be confused with a "joint degree" (one diploma issued by multiple institutions). ... Dual degree—completing requirements for two separate degrees, including, for Ph.D., producing two dissertations. Degrees may be within the same academic unit or across academic units. Joint degree—completing requirements for two degree programs with possibly overlapping or coordinated degree requirements. ... Sep 20, 2024 · Dual DNP/Ph.D. programs are very new in the world of nursing education, with some of the earliest programs launching in just 2016. For a full-time student, the average program length is 5 years, which means that little is known about program outcomes, as the earliest enrolled students have not graduated just yet. ... How to apply for a joint PhD. The application process for a joint PhD can be as varied as the programmes themselves. The exact method will depend on several factors, including the universities, where they’re located and in what relation to each other, and the nature of your research project – i.e. whether you’re applying to an advertised project or putting forward your own research proposal. ... ">

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Double doctorate: can you get multiple phds, published by steve tippins on may 12, 2020 may 12, 2020.

Last Updated on: 2nd February 2024, 02:48 am

A question I’ve gotten a few times: “Can I get a double PhD?” 

The answer is yes, you can under most circumstances. But why? 

While there are some exceptional cases, generally I’d discourage people from pursuing a second PhD. Here are some of the reasons why. After I cover those, I’ll talk about situations where it makes sense to get multiple PhDs.

Reasons Not to Get a Double PhD

For the most part, I can’t see a big reason for a second PhD unless there is a second academic track you want to go into. Here are some reasons why getting a double PhD won’t actually double your opportunities.

You Are Already Considered an Expert

Once you have a PhD , few people outside of academia will ask you what it’s in. Outside the academic world, multiple PhDs will rarely give you much extra credibility.

Becoming a Student Again Is Tough

stressed out woman holding her had while reading a book

Getting a PhD means you’re very subservient to professors and committee members. Once you’ve emerged from that already and have become an expert, it’s very difficult to get back into that mindset. Doing so requires a lot of self-discipline and humility–sometimes even when it’s unwarranted. While possible, I wouldn’t say it’s desirable.

You Can Do Interdisciplinary Research Already

You probably wouldn’t need a PhD in both Anthropology and Psychology or in both Sociology and Psychology. Those fields are closely related, so an anthropologist can offer valuable insights to the field of psychology, and vice versa. Just make sure to stay within the scope of your knowledge or collaborate with researchers in the other field you’re exploring.

Over 50% of doctoral candidates don’t finish their dissertations.

can you get a dual phd

You Already Have Research Skills

A PhD gives you the research skills, and those can transfer to other areas. If you have all those skills, you can get a lot of the information on your own and become an expert in another field. You know how to research and dive in and find people who can help you find other information, so if you need to know about a subject, you have the resources to do it on your own. You already have research skills. Why pay to learn them again?

A note of caution here: people have been getting in trouble for using “PhD” after their name and commenting on things that they’re not experts on. For example, someone with a PhD in classical literature commenting on current societal issues or health issues and not disclosing that their PhD is in an unrelated field.

If you want to be seen as an expert in a field, you’ll need to have a PhD (or other degree or certification) in that field. 

Objectively speaking, the PhD research skills apply across the board. And it may be that through self-study or mentorship, you are an expert in a field unrelated to your degree. However, if you’re putting yourself out there as an expert in another field, you can still say you’re an expert, just don’t put “PhD” after your name (or be clear about what your PhD is in).

You May Be Seen as a “Permanent Student”

woman in a yellow shirt smiling and holding a pile of notebooks and folders

If you haven’t had much of a career after your first PhD, you may be seen as a permanent student. As David Clark pointed out on Stack Exchange , “Hovering around getting multiple PhDs would be akin to getting multiple bachelor degrees. People may see you as a permanent student, not someone growing into a mature researcher.”

While there are many advantages to being a permanent student–a life of learning and curiosity being one of them–some hiring managers may consider it a drawback, as they’re looking for someone invested in their career.

Reasons to Get a Double PhD

All that said, there are some situations where getting multiple PhDs may be the best choice. I’ve outlined some of these below.

Expertise in Hard Sciences

group of researchers examining samples in a laboratory

The most common instances of people having multiple PhDs are in the hard sciences. For example, medical students may also pursue a PhD in something like chemistry or physiology. 

I’ve seen MDs with PhDs and JDs with PhDs. This can come in handy for those more interested in research or administrative work–for example, an MD who pursues a PhD in order to become eligible for an administrative-level position or pursue research.

can you get a dual phd

Shifting Expertise

If you’re a biologist and would like to become a counselor or a mathematician, you’ll need a new degree. However, a PhD may not always be the best choice. Counselors, for example, can be certified with a Master’s degree (more on that in the next section).

That said, if you’re committed to research or high-level management positions in an entirely new field, it may be that there’s nothing to do but buckle down and get your second PhD.

Certifications with Similar Requirements

two women discussing details with pens and paper on the table

If you’re looking to get a certification, and the requirements for that certification are almost as much work as getting a PhD, it usually makes sense to go ahead and get the PhD.

For example, if you are an LMFT and want to get an AAMFT-Approved Supervisor designation, it’s usually worth just going ahead and getting the PhD, since the requirements for both are similarly stringent. 

Another reason to go this route: you can get student loans to fund a PhD, but not to fund self-study.

How to Get a Double PhD

See if it’s necessary.

See if getting a Master’s or certification in that field will allow you to do what you want to do. For example, somebody who has a PhD in History who decides they want to be a financial planner. They could get a certified financial planner designation and then be fine. If they want to be a therapist, they just need a master’s degree in therapy. 

See if You Can Get Credit from your Previous Program’s Courses

woman working on her laptop with a cup of tea next to her

If you’re going into another field where you want to do research, you may get credit for the research courses you took in your previous program. However, there is usually a 5-10 year limit on this.

Pursue Two PhDs Simultaneously

In some cases, it is possible to complete similar coursework for multiple PhDs at the same time.

Christopher Wells pursued two related PhDs simultaneously. He says, “I have a double major doctoral degree that can be seen as two PhDs individually, in inorganic and physical chemistry, and pursued both of the majors at the same time during my nine years at SUNY Albany, from 2002 to 2011. However, my diploma only shows ‘Chemistry’, so I usually tell people directly about the two majors.”

Double PhD Summary

While in most situations getting multiple PhDs is unnecessary, there are some cases where it makes sense. If you’re in one of those situations, look into whether you can get credit for work you’ve already done.

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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PhD Pursuits

Can I Do Double PhD? Double Doctorate and Two PhDs Explained

You may have heard of people completing a double degree, or having two masters. Would that be possible for PhD? Can I do double PhD?

You can do double PhD, but it is rather rare. This is because a single PhD alone is a challenge, and is often enough to establish expertise in the subject. Double PhD also means double the time, financial stress, meaning less are keen to do that. 

In this post, we discuss if a double PhD is possible, and if it is sensible. If you are keen to do it, we also explore how you can get about the process.

Can I Do Double PhD?

In short, you can. However, it is uncommon, and things are rather muddled if you go deeper.

Can I Do Double PhD

Pursuing a PhD is a monumental task, often seen as the pinnacle of academic achievement. Yet, the idea of enrolling for a second PhD stirs mixed feelings in academia. 

Some opt for a double doctorate to bridge disciplines, becoming interdisciplinary scholars who can navigate multiple fields with ease.

Here, we are talking about two separate PhD degrees, not dual/joint PhD degrees some university awards for a single research.

Consider the journey of a researcher aiming to meld insights from neuroscience and public health. Their first PhD in neuroscience lays the groundwork. But to truly impact public health, they see value in a second PhD.

This blend of expertise allows for novel research that could lead to groundbreaking discoveries. It’s akin to having a foot in two worlds, with the ability to see and solve problems from a unique vantage point.

Yet, the road to two PhDs is fraught with challenges. Admission to a second doctoral program isn’t guaranteed, even with a PhD under your belt.

Prospective students must demonstrate not just academic prowess but a compelling reason to pursue another doctorate. Faculty often question the need for a second PhD unless it’s for a distinct, interdisciplinary career path.

There’s also the lifestyle aspect. PhD students often live on modest stipends, making the financial strain of a second PhD a significant consideration.

The term ‘permanent student’ might sound appealing to some, but the realities of delayed entry into the full-time job market and the potential for overqualification can be daunting.

Yet, for those driven by an insatiable curiosity and the desire to make a mark across disciplines, a second PhD can be a rewarding path.

Collaborating across departments, they can forge new connections and insights, contributing to academia in ways a single PhD might not allow. It’s a rare and challenging journey, but for the right individual, it can be incredibly fulfilling.

How Do You Do Double PhD?

Doing a double PhD is similar to regular PhD, you decide on your research, find a place and supervisor, complete your registration, and start your study. 

Can I Do Double PhD

Ask Yourself: Do You Need A Double PhD?

However, start with assessing your motivation and end goals. Why do you need two PhDs?

  • Is it to deepen your expertise in interconnected fields, or
  • to forge a new path in an interdisciplinary area? 

Understanding your ‘why’ will guide your journey and help you articulate your vision to advisors and admission committees.

Research Suitable University and Supervisor

Once your goals are clear, research becomes crucial. You need to identify universities that not only offer PhD programs in your chosen disciplines but also support interdisciplinary research.

This is where you can really dive into the specifics of each program, understanding the coursework, research opportunities, and the faculty’s openness to guiding a student through multiple doctoral degrees.

Next, securing an advisor or mentor in each department is vital. These advisors will be your navigators, helping you bridge the gap between disciplines and ensuring your research is cohesive and impactful.

They can also provide insider insights and help you tailor your dissertation to reflect a truly interdisciplinary approach.

Submit An Compelling Application

Admission to a second PhD program while completing or after having completed the first requires a compelling application .

It’s not just about academic transcripts; your application must convey a clear vision of how the two PhDs will complement each other and contribute to the field.

This is where you highlight your unique perspective and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries that a dual doctorate can facilitate.

Throughout your journey, collaboration is key. Engaging with faculty and peers across departments will enrich your research and open up new avenues of inquiry. This multidisciplinary approach can lead to innovative solutions and contributions to your fields of study.

Pros & Cons Of Having Double PhD

If you are thinking about a double PhD, consider these pros and cons below as you make your decision:

  • Interdisciplinary Expertise : With two PhDs in different fields, you become a bridge between disciplines, possessing a rare blend of knowledge. This interdisciplinary expertise can lead to innovative research and solutions. For instance, combining a PhD in public health with one in data science could revolutionize how we predict and manage health crises.
  • Enhanced Career Opportunities : A double doctorate can open doors to specialized academic positions, high-level consultancy roles, or leadership in research and development sectors. Universities and research institutes value such unique qualifications for their potential to drive cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovation.
  • Personal and Intellectual Growth : The process of earning two PhDs is incredibly enriching. You’re not just accumulating degrees; you’re engaging deeply with multiple subjects, methodologies, and ways of thinking. This can be a profoundly transformative experience, pushing the boundaries of your intellectual and personal capabilities.
  • Time and Financial Investment : Completing one PhD can take anywhere from 3 to 8 years, and a second PhD adds to this timeline. The financial aspect is also significant, considering tuition fees, living expenses, and potential lost income during this extended period of study.
  • Overqualification Concerns : Holding two PhDs might make you highly specialized, which can be a double-edged sword in the job market. Some employers may view such qualifications as excessive, worrying that you might demand a higher salary or not be satisfied with the available roles. This can inadvertently narrow your job prospects outside academia.
  • Physical and Mental Toll : The rigors of a PhD program are well-documented, involving intense research, coursework, and the stress of dissertation writing. Multiplying this by two can take a significant toll on your mental and physical health. The pressure to perform and produce original research in two distinct fields can be overwhelming, leading to burnout if not carefully managed.

Is It Necessary To Do A Double PhD?

Deciding whether to pursue a second PhD involves a deep reflection on your career goals and the nature of your academic interests. It’s rare in academia to find professors or researchers with two PhDs.

The rarity is not because it’s unachievable, but because one doctorate usually suffices for establishing expertise and credibility in a field.

can you get a dual phd

The necessity of a double doctorate hinges on very specific career paths or interdisciplinary ambitions that cannot be fulfilled through a single PhD program.

For example, someone passionate about creating solutions at the intersection of technology and environmental science might find that a single PhD limits their ability to deeply understand and innovate across these disciplines.

In such cases, a second PhD in a complementary field can provide the breadth and depth of knowledge needed to make significant contributions.

However, this path is not without its challenges. The financial, mental, and time investments are considerable, and the academic community often debates the practicality of such endeavors.

Moreover, the evolving nature of doctoral programs now allows for more interdisciplinary research within a single PhD, reducing the need for a second.

Universities are increasingly encouraging cross-departmental collaboration, enabling students to tailor their research projects to span multiple disciplines without the need for an additional degree.

In this context, the decision to pursue a second PhD should be carefully weighed against the opportunities to specialize and collaborate within existing doctoral frameworks.

Two Doctoral Degrees: Possible But May Not Be Needed

Pursuing a double PhD is a unique path that offers unparalleled interdisciplinary expertise and career opportunities but comes with significant challenges. It requires a clear understanding of your goals, immense dedication, and a willingness to navigate the complexities of academia.

While not necessary for everyone, for those driven by a deep passion for multiple disciplines, it can be a rewarding journey. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal ambition, academic interests, and the strategic value of dual doctoral degrees.

can you get a dual phd

Dr. JW Ong holds academic degrees, including a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from universities in New Zealand, Malaysia, and the UK. He started PhDPursuits.com as a way to share the experience he wish he would have had known before embarking on his PhD.

Dual Degrees: Combined Master’s and Ph.D. Programs

Reese Lopez

Key Takeaways

  • Dual degrees combine studies in two distinct but related fields, such as business and law.
  • Earning two degrees together can increase your career options and salary potential.
  • Dual degrees offer professional benefits, but tuition may be higher.
  • Consider your career goals carefully to decide if you really need a dual degree.

If you’re looking for career versatility and high salary potential , combined master’s and doctoral programs can help you advance quickly in your field. These specialized programs combine a master’s degree in one area with a doctorate in another area, such as a master’s in business and a law degree.

Our guide to master’s and Ph.D. combined programs offers information on popular programs, career options, and answers to common questions about dual degrees .

What Is a Dual Degree?

Master’s and Ph.D. combined programs give you complementary skills in two different areas of study, preparing you for careers that cross professional boundaries. These degrees focus on related subjects that commonly intersect, such as law and public policy. By studying both fields together, you gain a more specialized perspective that can make you more competitive in the job market.

Completing two degrees simultaneously can also help you graduate faster, save money on tuition, and enter the workforce sooner.

Featured Online Master’s Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

9 Popular Combined Master’s and Doctoral Programs

This list highlights nine of the most popular types of combined master’s and doctorate. These dual degrees bring together diverse fields such as business, medicine, and education.

1. MBA & Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Combining skills in business and nursing , a dual MBA/DNP prepares you for leadership positions in nursing and healthcare. With this dual degree, you’ll gain advanced skills in clinical care, nursing leadership, and healthcare management. An MBA/DNP gives you an understanding of both the practical and the business sides of the healthcare industry.

2. MBA & Doctor of Medicine (MD)

A dual MBA/MD can prepare you for cross-disciplinary jobs requiring intensive medicine and business leadership knowledge. Fusing two high-paying degrees , these master’s and doctorate combined programs train you for high-level healthcare leadership roles. Usually taking 5-6 years to complete, an MBA/MD equips you for clinical medical practice, medical leadership, and medical consultation in the private sector.

3. MBA & Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)

A combined MBA/Pharm.D. degree gives you comprehensive skills in both pharmacy practice and business leadership. This is an ideal program to pursue if you’re interested in a high-level career in the pharmaceutical industry. A dual MBA/Pharm.D. can also prepare you for entrepreneurship opportunities in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

4. MBA & Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

A dual MBA/Psy.D. degree can prepare you for both clinical psychology practice and private sector consultation without forcing you to commit to either path. These programs focus on psychology and business knowledge, commonly preparing you for executive coaching or organizational consulting jobs.

5. MBA & Juris Doctor (JD)

One of the most versatile master’s and doctorate combined programs, a combined MBA/JD covers both business management and law. This degree can prepare you for careers in corporate law or any other industry where business and law intersect. MBA/JD programs take 3-5 years to complete.

6. Master of Education (M.Ed.) & Juris Doctor

A combined M.Ed./JD gives you extensive knowledge of law, education leadership, and education policy. Coursework typically explores the relationship between education organizations and state and federal education regulations. This degree is ideal if you want a career in education administration , advocacy, or policy development.

7. Master of Public Policy (MPP) & Juris Doctor

A dual MPP/JD degree provides insight into both law and public policy. Often taking four years to complete, these master’s and doctorate combined programs focus on regulatory and legal issues related to public policy. After graduating, you can work in law, government, or other policy-related careers .

8. Master of Science (MS) & Medical Doctor

An MS/MD degree combines medical knowledge with scientific research, giving you a deeper understanding of the science behind clinical healthcare. These programs can prepare you for careers in healthcare, medical research, and teaching. You can complete an MS/MD degree program in five years of full-time study.

9. Master of Public Health & Medical Doctor (MPH)

A combined MPH/MD highlights the intersection of community health and clinical medical practice. This degree combines individualized and community perspectives on healthcare issues, training you both to treat patients and address larger, population-wide health issues. An MPH/MD program typically takes 4-5 years to complete.

Is a Combined Master’s and Ph.D. Degree Worth It?

Combined master’s and Ph.D. programs offer some notable professional benefits, including increased job options and higher salary potential. However, earning two advanced degrees usually doesn’t come cheap — particularly if you’re pursuing high-paying fields such as medicine, business, and law.

Ultimately, you have to weigh the increased cost of earning two degrees against potential future earnings in your field.

If you’re interested in a specific career path or hope to advance in your current job, a dual degree can be a practical choice. At the same time, it’s crucial to consider your return on investment and how much more you can realistically earn by completing two graduate degrees instead of just one.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Master’s and Ph.D. Programs

How long does a combined master’s and ph.d. program take.

Completion times for combined master’s and Ph.D. programs vary by school and type of degree, but most programs take 3-6 years. Accelerated programs may take as few as three years, while part-time programs usually take longer.

Do you need your master’s to earn a Ph.D.?

Education requirements for admission vary by program. Some dual degrees, such as the MBA/DNP, often require you to hold a master’s in nursing to apply. Others, such as the MBA/JD, only require a bachelor’s degree. Consult individual program admissions requirements to learn what level of education you need to apply.

What can you do with a combined master’s and Ph.D.?

Most combined master’s and Ph.D. programs prepare you for management roles and other advanced positions within your field. These degrees also qualify you for more specialized jobs that combine knowledge from multiple fields, such as healthcare management or corporate law.

Can you get your master’s and Ph.D. at the same time?

Dual master’s and Ph.D. programs often let you complete coursework for both degrees simultaneously. Combining coursework helps you earn your master’s and doctorate in less time than it would take to complete both degrees separately. Some programs may split coursework for the two degrees into different school years, while others let you work toward both degrees simultaneously.

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Do You Need a Master’s to Get a Ph.D.?

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Do you need a master’s to get a Ph.D.? Well, the answer may surprise you — learn more about graduate degree pathways.

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Joint and Dual Degree Programs

  • Guidelines and Deadlines
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With more than 100 graduate degree programs, the University of Chicago is uniquely able to offer students the advantages of combining opportunities through interdisciplinary work or by pursuing multiple degree programs. The details vary from program to program, and in most cases require applications to both programs. Please review the information provided by both departments to determine the application and course requirements for each pair of degrees.

Definitions:

  • Dual degree—completing requirements for two separate degrees, including, for Ph.D., producing two dissertations. Degrees may be within the same academic unit or across academic units.
  • Joint degree—completing requirements for two degree programs with possibly overlapping or coordinated degree requirements. Degrees may be within the same academic unit or across academic units.

Joint/Dual Programs

Biological Sciences Division

  • MD/PhD ( MSTP / ISTP ) – Medical/Interdisciplinary Scientist Training Program
  • MD/MPH – Master of Public Health degree
  • MBA/MS in Biomedical Sciences – Biological Sciences Division

Chicago Booth School of Business

  • MBA/JD –  Law School
  • MBA/MD –  Pritzker School of Medicine
  • MBA/MPCS –  Master’s Program in Computer Science
  • MBA/MPP –  Harris School of Public Policy
  • MBA/MS in Applied Data Science – Physical Sciences Division
  • MBA/AM (Social Work) – Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice
  • MBA/AM (International Relations) – Social Sciences Division
  • PhD Joint Programs in Business and Psychology or  Financial Economics –  Social Sciences Division
  • PhD/JD –  Law School

Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice

  • AM/MBA –  Booth School of Business
  • AM/MPP –  Harris School of Public Policy
  • AM/MDiv –  Divinity School – Chicago Theological Seminary ,  Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago ,  McCormick Theological Seminary ,  Meadville/Lombard Theological Seminary , and the  Catholic Theological Union

The Divinity School

  • MDiv/AM – Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice
  • MDiv/JD –  Law School
  • MDiv/MPP –  Harris School of Public Policy

Harris School of Public Policy

  • MPP/JD – Law School
  • MPP/AM (Social Work) – Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice
  • MPP/MDiv –  Divinity School
  • MPP/MBA –  Booth School of Business
  • MA/MA (International Relations) –  Social Sciences Division

Humanities Division

  • Doctoral Joint Degree Program
  • MeSH (MD/PhD) – Medicine, the Social Sciences and Humanities

The Law School

  • Law School Dual Degree Overview
  • JD/MBA –  Booth School of Business
  • JD/PhD  – Booth School of Business and Social Sciences Division
  • JD/MPP –  Harris School of Public Policy
  • JD/MDiv –  Divinity School
  • JD/MA (International Relations) –  Social Sciences Division

Pritzker School of Medicine

  • MD/MBA – Booth School of Business
  • MD/MA in Public Policy – Harris School of Public Policy
  • MD/MS in Bioinformatics – University of Chicago Graham School
  • MSTP (MD/PhD) – Medical Scientist Training Program
  • GDDTP (MD/PhD) – Growth, Development and Disabilities Training Program

Social Sciences Division

  • JD/MA (International Relations) – Law School
  • MBA/MA – International Relations with Booth and CIR
  • MA (Public Policy)/MA (International Relations) –  Harris School of Public Policy
  • PhD in Anthropology and Linguistics – Humanities Division
  • PhD in Psychology and Linguistics – Humanities Division
  • PhD in Financial Economics – Booth School of Business
  • PhD in Psychology and Business – Booth School of Business
  • JD/PhD – Law School
  • PhD in Social Thought and Classics – Humanities Division
  • PhD in Social Thought & Philosophy  – Humanities Division

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can you get a dual phd

Home / Nursing Degree / Dual DNP/Ph.D. Nursing Programs

Dual DNP/Ph.D. Nursing Programs

Dual DNP/Ph.D. Nursing Programs

When choosing to pursue a doctorate nursing degree, there are two distinctive tracks that nurses can take. A doctorate degree is the highest level of education for a given profession. Most doctorate programs accept MSN-prepared nurses and some have curriculum for BSN-prepared nurses that take additional time to complete. A nurse may choose the path of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), and in some cases, a nurse may opt to complete both in a dual program.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program focuses on providing and implementing nursing care at the highest level of clinical practice. These programs include extensive clinical hours, as a DNP uses the most current research to improve patient outcomes in their practice. DNP-prepared nurses often work in nurse administration, management, or hold other leadership roles in a variety of medical settings.

A Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing focuses on conducting research to advance the practice of nursing. Ph.D. programs include very little clinical hours, as the majority of time and attention is devoted to research and writing/publishing. With this degree, a nurse can teach at a university, conduct research, evaluate programs, write books, lead healthcare organizations, and more.

A select few dual degree programs exist for those nurses brave enough to complete a DNP and Ph.D., such as the one offered through Johns Hopkins School of Nursing . These programs are designed for nurses looking to combine research and clinical practice with leadership skills. Dual DNP/Ph.D. programs are very new in the world of nursing education, with some of the earliest programs launching in just 2016. For a full-time student, the average program length is 5 years, which means that little is known about program outcomes, as the earliest enrolled students have not graduated just yet. In general, job prospects are very good for RNs with doctorate degrees. With both degrees, a graduate can work in either role, giving them an unprecedented amount of versatility in their future careers.

List of Dual DNP/Ph.D. Nursing Programs

Jump to your state listings, university of arizona.

  • PhD/DNP Dual Campus

Johns Hopkins University

  • DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree Program Hybrid

University of Michigan - Flint

  • Dual MBA/DNP Online Campus

Case Western Reserve University

  • Dual Doctorate PhD/DNP Campus

Pennsylvania

University of pittsburgh.

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Dual Program Campus

University of Tennessee Health Science Center

  • DNP and PhD Dual Degree Campus

University of Utah

  • Dual DNP-PhD in Nursing Campus

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Other Dual Degree Nursing Programs

  • Dual MSN/MBA Programs
  • Dual MSN/MHA Programs
  • Dual MSN/MPH Programs
  • Dual DNP/MBA Programs

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COMMENTS

  1. Double Doctorate: Can You Get Multiple PhDs? - Beyond PhD ...

    May 12, 2020 · A PhD gives you the research skills, and those can transfer to other areas. If you have all those skills, you can get a lot of the information on your own and become an expert in another field. You know how to research and dive in and find people who can help you find other information, so if you need to know about a subject, you have the ...

  2. 11 Dual Joint Masters and PhD Programs (And How to Quickly ...

    Find the Joint Masters and PhD Degree For You. Fulfill your interest in more than one disciplinary area in one of the dual masters and doctorate degree programs above. You can also complete the form on this page to get matched to the perfect program for you or discover 9 grad schools with Low GPA requirements.

  3. Can I Do Double PhD? Double Doctorate and Two PhDs Explained

    Mar 31, 2024 · This is where you highlight your unique perspective and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries that a dual doctorate can facilitate. Throughout your journey, collaboration is key. Engaging with faculty and peers across departments will enrich your research and open up new avenues of inquiry.

  4. Dual Degrees: Combined Master’s and Ph.D. Programs

    Aug 25, 2023 · Dual degrees combine studies in two distinct but related fields, such as business and law. Earning two degrees together can increase your career options and salary potential. Dual degrees offer professional benefits, but tuition may be higher. Consider your career goals carefully to decide if you really need a dual degree.

  5. phd - When does one go for a double doctorate? - Academia ...

    Dec 11, 2014 · Generally you cannot get two PhDs in the same field. One could get a second PhD in a second field. People who want to do research in multiple fields or in a multidisciplinary topic or wish to change fields may obtain multiple PhDs. Alternatively, as you suggest, people who want to remain students forever do that.

  6. titles - Why is having multiple PhDs frowned upon? - Academia ...

    May 21, 2018 · For example, people can get a PhD in philosophy, and if they are a pastor or just interested in religion, get one in Theology. Such people may also get PhD's in original languages like Hebrew and Greek. None-the-less, there are certainly reasons not to get more than one PhD: Life is short, and a lot of dedication goes into getting even one Ph.D.

  7. Double PhD: is it really worth it? - Academia Stack Exchange

    A Double Degree (DD) PhD means that you will obtain your PhD degree from two different institutions, i.e. a double diploma, sometimes also referred to as a "dual award". A double degree (two diplomas, each of which issued by a single university) should not be confused with a "joint degree" (one diploma issued by multiple institutions).

  8. Joint and Dual Degrees - UChicagoGRAD - University of Chicago

    Dual degree—completing requirements for two separate degrees, including, for Ph.D., producing two dissertations. Degrees may be within the same academic unit or across academic units. Joint degree—completing requirements for two degree programs with possibly overlapping or coordinated degree requirements.

  9. Dual DNP/Ph.D. Nursing Programs

    Sep 20, 2024 · Dual DNP/Ph.D. programs are very new in the world of nursing education, with some of the earliest programs launching in just 2016. For a full-time student, the average program length is 5 years, which means that little is known about program outcomes, as the earliest enrolled students have not graduated just yet.

  10. Joint PhD and Cotutelle Programmes – A Guide - FindAPhD

    How to apply for a joint PhD. The application process for a joint PhD can be as varied as the programmes themselves. The exact method will depend on several factors, including the universities, where they’re located and in what relation to each other, and the nature of your research project – i.e. whether you’re applying to an advertised project or putting forward your own research proposal.