What it is
An honorary degree is conferred honoris causa — "for the sake of honor" — to recognize distinguished achievement or service. It is not earned through study and does not qualify the recipient to practice a profession.
The degrees & designations
Honorary doctorate titles include:
- LLDDoctor of Laws
- LHD / DHLDoctor of Humane Letters
- LittD / DLittDoctor of Letters / Literature
- ScD / DScDoctor of Science (honorary sense)
- DDDoctor of Divinity
- DFA / DMusDoctor of Fine Arts / Music
- DHum / DPS / DEngHumanities / Public Service / Engineering (honorary sense)
How long it takes
None — an honorary degree is conferred, not studied for. There is no program, coursework, or timeline.
What you study
None. The degree recognizes a person's accomplishments, contributions, or service rather than completion of a course of study.
Getting in
There is no application — recipients are nominated and selected by the institution, often to be honored at commencement.
Cost & funding
No tuition or cost — the degree is a form of recognition.
Where it leads
An honorary degree is an honor. It does not confer licensure or the right to practice, and using the title "Dr." from an honorary degree is generally discouraged outside ceremonial contexts.
How it compares
Honorary degrees share titles with some earned degrees (e.g., ScD, DD), but are awarded honoris causa rather than through study. They are not academic qualifications.
Is it right for you?
An honorary degree isn't something you pursue — it's bestowed by an institution to recognize notable achievement or service.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring the education resource:
Key facts
- TypeHonorary — conferred honoris causa, not earned
- RecognizesDistinguished achievement or service
- TitlesLLD, LHD/DHL, LittD, ScD, DD, DFA, and more
- RequiresNo study, application, or tuition
- NoteNot a professional qualification or license
Where to learn more
Keep exploring the K12 Academics education resource library: