What is the difference between a DSc and a Ph.D?

Career focus

PhD: Develop professional researchers

DSc: Develop researching professionals

Domain of research topic

PhD: Research any topic within the field of study

DSc: Aims at making a contribution to the knowledge of professional practice (applied research)

Research type

PhD: Basic research: original investigation undertaken to gain new knowledge and understanding but not necessarily directed towards any practical aim or application

DSc: Applied research: original investigation undertaken to gain new knowledge, with practical aims and objectives

Research focus

PhD: Perceived gap in the literature in a subject matter

DSc: Topics that relate to a candidate's own field of professional practice

Starting point for research

PhD: Literature review to identify a gap

DSc: A problem in professional practice that needs investigation and resolution

Intended learning outcome

PhD: Significant original contribution to knowledge in a particular discipline through research

DSc: Significant original contribution to knowledge of professional practice through research

Integration of theory and practice

PhD: Making a contribution to theory, expanding the nomological net around existing theory

DSc: Making research-based contribution to professional practice

Entry qualification

PhD: Bachelor's or master's degree

DSc: Primarily master's degree

Experience as an admission requirement

PhD: Not required

DSc: Usually required

Reference:

Bourner, T., Bowden, R., & Laing, S. (2001). Professional doctorates in England. Studies in higher education, 26, 1.