Embarking on a doctoral journey is an exciting and transformative experience, filled with new knowledge, challenges, and milestones. However, the terminology around doctoral studies—particularly the distinction between a doctoral student and a doctoral candidate—can sometimes be confusing, especially for those new to academia or considering doctoral education.
In this post, I’ll clarify the differences between these two key stages in doctoral education, explain what each phase entails, and share why understanding this distinction matters for your academic and professional journey.
What Is a Doctoral Student?
A doctoral student is someone who has been admitted into a doctoral program and is actively engaged in completing the early requirements of the degree. This stage typically includes:
- Coursework: Doctoral students spend considerable time attending classes to build foundational knowledge in their field of study and learn advanced research methodologies.
- Training: In addition to coursework, doctoral students develop critical academic skills, including academic writing, literature review, and research ethics.
- Examinations: Many doctoral programs require students to pass comprehensive or qualifying exams that test their mastery of key concepts and readiness to proceed to dissertation research.
This phase is often characterized by exploration and preparation. Doctoral students focus on gaining the expertise and skills necessary to design and conduct their own original research.
What Is a Doctoral Candidate?
After successfully completing the required coursework and passing any comprehensive or qualifying exams, a doctoral student advances to become a doctoral candidate. This status is sometimes referred to as “ABD,” meaning “All But Dissertation,” indicating that the student has fulfilled all requirements except for the dissertation.
As a doctoral candidate, the focus shifts dramatically:
- Research: Candidates dedicate their time to conducting original research that contributes new knowledge to their discipline.
- Dissertation Writing: This is a major scholarly work that involves developing research questions, collecting and analyzing data, and discussing findings in depth.
- Dissertation Defense: Upon completing the dissertation, the candidate must defend their research before a committee of experts.
- Being a doctoral candidate signals that you are on the path to completing your degree, but have moved beyond coursework into the crucial phase of scholarly contribution.
Key Differences Between Doctoral Student and Doctoral Candidate
| Aspect | Doctoral Student | Doctoral Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | Coursework, training, exams | Dissertation research and writing |
| Academic status | Early stage of doctoral program | Advanced stage, post-exam milestone |
| Key activities | Taking classes, developing research skills | Conducting original research, writing a dissertation |
| Degree progress | Working towards qualifying for candidacy | Finalizing the degree by completing a dissertation |
| Time commitment | Balancing classes and preliminary research | Intensive research and writing |
| Recognition | Seen as a student or learner | Recognized as a scholar contributing new knowledge |
Why Does This Distinction Matter?
Understanding the difference between being a doctoral student and a doctoral candidate is important for several reasons:
- Academic Expectations: Your responsibilities and expectations change dramatically between these stages. Knowing where you stand helps you plan your workload and set realistic goals.
- Professional Identity: When networking or updating your CV, accurately representing your status can help others understand your current academic and professional phase.
- Funding and Opportunities: Some grants, fellowships, or teaching opportunities are specifically available to candidates or students. Clear knowledge of your status can help you apply strategically.
- Psychological Readiness: Recognizing the shift to candidacy can boost confidence and motivation. It marks the transition from consuming knowledge to producing original scholarship.
Personal Reflection on My Journey
As a doctoral candidate in the Doctor of Education in College Teaching (Ed.D.C.T.) program, I experienced firsthand how transformative this shift feels. Moving from coursework to intensive research focused on “Fostering Inclusion Through Transformational Arts Leadership” has reshaped my academic identity and deepened my commitment to inclusive arts education.
This transition has not only changed my daily activities but also the way I see myself as an emerging scholar and leader in my field.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are just starting your doctoral journey or preparing to defend your dissertation, understanding the distinction between a doctoral student and a doctoral candidate can help you navigate your path more effectively. Each stage has its unique challenges and rewards, and both are crucial steps toward earning your doctoral degree.
If you’re considering doctoral studies or are currently in the program, embrace where you are, plan strategically, and celebrate your progress, because every phase brings you closer to your academic and professional goals.
Thanks,
Ligel Lambert, M.Ed., MFA (ABD)
Doctoral Candidate, Teachers College, Columbia University