How do you feel when your work is recognized by someone and appreciated? The sense of fulfillment received from little appreciation drives us more and makes our efforts valuable. Imagine someone has made profound contributions in any field, whether it be literature, science, the arts, or anything else, and has made a great impact on our society. Do you know how they are recognized? They are given the highest academic recognition – Honorary Doctorate. It is not merely about research papers, Phd, and the qualification you hold, it’s all about your contribution and efforts.
Let’s dive in deep and learn more about an Honorary doctorate or Honoris causa. Maybe one day all your research and efforts in your field would get lime light through this.
Essence of Honoris Causa
Meaning:
Honorary Doctorate is an academic recognition given to Individuals who have made excellent contributions in their field through their work, expertise, and commitment. Any innovations and efforts from an individual in any field are recognized by an Honorary Degree. It also takes several forms like Doctor of Letters(D.Litt), Doctor of Science (D.Sc), etc., based on the discipline.
Above all, it doesn’t require any specific formal academic qualification.
It enhances the recipient’s career growth and provides them with worldwide opportunities by recognizing their hard work and accomplishments. Specifically, the title “ Dr.” brings in courage, authority, and authenticity.
The main purpose of granting an Honorary degree is to give acknowledgement for the individual’s work and to make a remarkable impact on the credibility of the recipient. Further, it also symbolizes the value held by the organisation from the type of achievements acknowledged by them.
For example, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, a well-known scientist and former president of India, was awarded an honorary doctorate by several universities for his remarkable contributions in the field of science and technology.
Story of Honorary Doctorate
Honorary doctorate originates from the Latin Word Honoris causa, which means – For the sake of honour. The Notable prestigious award began its journey in the 1470s from Oxford University. Oxford introduced this as an exemption from a typical academic degree and to honour the legends for their tireless efforts and work. The first one to receive this was Lionel Woodville, who also became the chancellor of Oxford later.
Following Oxford’s tradition, many universities started to provide honorary degrees to honour visionary individuals.
Initially, an honorary doctorate brought in many strong royal and religious connections for institutions offering it. In the later period, say the 15th to 17th century the focus shifted to philosophy and education. This time period is known for historic moments and leaders who made revolutionary changes. Due to this, there was a significant increase in honorary degree holders.
An honorary doctorate not only strengthens the individuals but also strengthens the power and authority of the institutions.
Benefits of an Honorary Degree
In all the years till now, an honorary doctorate has held the social status, honour, and prestige of an individual. It is highly beneficial for individuals and scholars seeking further advancement in their careers.
Some major advantages are:
- Visibility: Honorary doctorate validates the efforts of the individual in front of the whole world, which makes them gain popularity and stardom.
- Networking: Through this award, the individuals would get an opportunity to connect with several achievers, doctorates, and scholars. Thus, it significantly results in the growth of their connections.
- Validation: The accomplishments of the candidates are recognised and have been appreciated. This would boost their confidence and prestige.
- Career growth: Definitely, an Honorary degree holder would have a massive growth in their career due to exceptional work and contribution
- Moreover, what else is the greatest motivation other than awards and praises? Honorary doctorate drives the younger generation to contribute to the welfare of our society. It also emphasises the value of hard work and effort in a materialistic world.
If you are also curious to get this, then you should know how it is provided.
How to get an Honorary Doctorate?
There isn’t any specific eligibility criteria and process, but still, there are some notable steps involved in providing an Honorary degree to an individual.
Impactful work:
The main motive of providing an Honorary doctorate to an individual is to acknowledge their work and societal impact. So, without any measurable scales, your significant work and innovation are the major part. If you think your years of expertise have significant value, then definitely proceed to the further steps.
Nomination:
You have to be nominated by any public figures, academicians, or faculty in any institution that provides an honorary doctorate. If there aren’t any significant personalities you know, never mind, some institutions are also offering self-nomination.
In this process, you have to submit your CV and biodata along with your academic qualifications.
Evaluation:
Then the candidate’s work is evaluated by a panel of expert jury based on the criteria and terms of the institution.
Award Ceremony:
Once you’ve been approved and evaluated, a formal ceremony similar to a graduation is conducted and you will be awarded a doctorate.
Institutes offering Online Honorary Doctorate:
Despite several institutes offering Honorary Degrees, these two are the ones where there is self-nomination as well as worldwide accreditation.
Dunster Business School Switzerland
Dunster Business School is a prominent institute known for providing flexible learning options to meet the individual requirements of students. They started in 2018 with a unique approach to academics and research. They still persist in providing globally accepted quality education for all their students. DBS school’s vision is to provide a worldwide diverse education, fulfilling the current demands of the Business
They also offer honorary degrees as the highest recognition awarded by the university to selected candidates who were evaluated by their committee members.
Florida University of Science and Management
The Florida University of Science and Management began in 2018 with research as its main motive. FLISM is a globally recognized institute specialized in providing real-world stimulated education. They nurture their students with problem-solving ability, critical thinking, and creativity to make them evolve into a good leader.
FLISM provides an Honorary Doctorate to individuals from various fields and disciplines. They have a specialised set of experienced panel members who filter out the candidates nominated.
Conclusion:
To summarise, an Honorary doctorate stands as one of the biggest milestones in an individual’s life. It inspires and motivates people to work towards betterment. Also, it can only be earned and can never be conquered.
For the ones bringing the innovations despite tackling challenges, to the thoughtful minds that always stimulate creative and powerful ideas, and for the workaholics who put tireless effort each day. Remember, validation and recognition are necessary for ourselves as well as for society. Never look back upon yourselves. Now, you have the opportunity as well as the ability to receive the highest honours as a biggest feather in your cap.
Recommended Reads:
- How to List an Honorary Doctorate on Your CV or Website?
- Top 5 Honorary Doctorate Degrees in Dammam and How to Apply?
- Best 7 Honorary Doctorate Degrees in Oman
- Top 5 Honorary Doctorate Degree in Riyadh: A Celebration of Excellence
- Best 8 Honorary Doctorate Degree in UAE
FAQs
Of course, yes, a PhD is received through presenting research papers whereas, an Honorary doctorate is earned through an individual’s work.
Yes, in most of cases, but still, there must be a clarification with the institute providing it to know about the usage of the title.
It must be mentioned in the awards and achievements section of your CV. Honoris causa is an award, not an academic qualification possessed by an individual.
Yes, if there is a misuse of the doctorate. If the recipient uses this for fraudulent activities and misrepresents the institute, as per the institute’s principles and policies, the award will be revoked.
There is no cost involved in receiving an Honoris causa. It is purely given based on the accomplishments and work of the individuals.
