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Doctorate Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Doctorate Statistics

  • In 2019, 184,100 research doctorate degrees were awarded in the United States, constituting the largest number of such degrees ever awarded in a year.
  • Women earned 46.9% of all research doctoral degrees in the United States in 2019.
  • More than 57,000 PhDs were awarded in the European Area in 2016.
  • Between 2000-2019, the average age at doctorate award in the U.S. increased from +30.7 to +31.1 years.
  • In 2019, United Kingdom had 70,215 doctoral students.
  • Doctorate degrees accounted for only 0.7% of all awarded postsecondary degrees in Canada in 2016/2017.
  • In 2019, among all U.S. doctorate recipients, 64% were White, the largest racial/ethnic group.
  • In the U.S. about 60% of education doctorate recipients between 2015 and 2019 took more than 5 years to complete the degree.
  • Psychology was the field with the highest share of doctorate recipients being women in the U.S. in 2019 (78%).
  • In Germany, more than half (57%) of doctorate degrees granted in 2017 were in science and engineering.
  • In Sweden, the number of doctoral degrees awarded rose by 23% between 2007 and 2017.
  • In Japan, women earned 24.8% of all doctorates awarded in 2018.
  • In the United States, 55% of all doctorate recipients in 2019 had no educational debt.
  • The percentage of doctorate holders employed in academia in the U.S. was about 43% in 2019.
  • In China, the number of doctorate degrees awarded increased from 1,168 in 1978 to 77,989 in 2020.
  • Of doctorate holders from EU countries in 2016, 34% were women.
  • More than 40% of the PHD students in the Netherlands are international students.

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Welcome to our insightful exploration into the world of Doctorate Statistics. This blog post aims to illuminate the intriguing universe of deep statistical analysis and research associated with Ph.D. level studies. The journey within the realm of Doctorate Statistics not only reveals complex statistical techniques and methodologies but also unfolds the vital role these tools and strategies play in influencing decision-making processes, policy formulation, and advancement of various fields of study. Be ready for a captivating tour that will delve deeply into the heart of Doctorate-level statistical studies and its consequential impact on shaping the contours of academic and practical domains.

The Latest Doctorate Statistics Unveiled

In 2019, 184,100 research doctorate degrees were awarded in the United States, constituting the largest number of such degrees ever awarded in a year.

The statistic that reveals a record 184,100 research doctorate degrees awarded in the United States in 2019 leaps off the page, practically demanding notice in the realm of doctorate trends discussion. It’s not merely a testament to academic diligence; it also reflects a boom in intellectual capital, motivated research, and subject-matter expertise. This surge in doctoral attainment suggests a pulse of innovation and scholarly commitment energizing various fields, from medicine to humanities, engineering to social sciences. Furthermore, it challenges preconceived notions about the decline of scholarly pursuits, redefining the landscape of contemporary academia while signaling a transformative moment in advanced education.

Women earned 46.9% of all research doctoral degrees in the United States in 2019.

Highlighting that nearly half of all research doctoral degrees in the United States were earned by women in 2019 serves as a pivotal point in our blog post about Doctorate Statistics. Not only does this reveal the narrowing of the traditional academic gender gap, but it also provides crucial insights into the shifting dynamics of the academic landscape. This level of female academic achievement can inspire future generations of women to pursue higher education, challenge traditional stereotypes, and reshape the conversation about gender and intellectual capacity. Clearly, these figures pave the way for a rich and nuanced discussion around progress, representation, and the future direction of doctoral studies in America.

More than 57,000 PhDs were awarded in the European Area in 2016.

Highlighting the fact that over 57,000 PhDs were awarded in the European Area in 2016 adds an evidentiary cornerstone to our deep dive into the realm of doctoral statistics. It vividly illustrates the intensity of academic pursuits in Europe, serving as a testament to the continent’s commitment towards promoting higher education. This potently indicative figure not only outlines the educational landscape of Europe, but also provides a robust comparative framework for gauging the scale and progress of doctorate studies globally, thereby enriching the statistical expanse of our blog post.

Between 2000-2019, the average age at doctorate award in the U.S. increased from +30.7 to +31.1 years.

In the realm of doctorate statistics, an intriguing nugget of information is the subtle yet significant uptick in the average age of doctorate recipients in the U.S. between 2000-2019, moving from 30.7 to 31.1 years. This subtle progression not only underscores dynamic changes in academic career paths but also potentially reflects wider societal trends, such as people spending a longer time in education or re-entering academia after gaining real-world experience. Thus, this enhance our understanding of the evolving landscape of higher education and offer valuable insights for universities, policy makers and future Ph.D. candidates.

In 2019, United Kingdom had 70,215 doctoral students.

Highlighting the figure of 70,215 doctoral students in the United Kingdom for 2019 forms a significant focal point for our blog on Doctorate Statistics. This number shapes our comprehension of the depth of academic pursuit in the U.K, serving as a window into its research-intensive environment. Moreover, it underlines the U.K’s commitment to fostering advanced knowledge and creating thought leaders across various disciplines. Therefore, a clear-cut figure like this makes it possible to start a meaningful discourse about the academic climate, research opportunities, intellectual growth, and even the job market within the country and beyond.

Doctorate degrees accounted for only 0.7% of all awarded postsecondary degrees in Canada in 2016/2017.

Evoking a moment of reflective assessment, the datum that doctorate degrees comprised a mere 0.7% of all disseminated postsecondary degrees in Canada during the 2016/2017 academic year amplifies the rarity and prestige associated with such a distinguished level of scholarships. By framing the magnitude of accomplishment within such a context, readers of a blog post about Doctorate Statistics gain an encompassing perspective that solidifies the understanding of the exceptional commitment, dedication, and intellectual pursuit required to join the thin interstice of academia as doctorate degree holders.

In 2019, among all U.S. doctorate recipients, 64% were White, the largest racial/ethnic group.

As we delve into an expedition of Doctorate Statistics, a remarkable point of reference reveals itself: in 2019, Whites, who composed 64% of all U.S. doctorate recipients, consolidated their position as the most dominant racial/ethnic group in this arena. This beacon of data, in essence, allows us to comprehend the racial and ethnic landscape within the intellectual stratum of our society. Not only does it underscore the ongoing patterns of educational attainment amongst various communities, but it also serves as a catalyst for conversations concerning inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunity. Hence, this critical statistic paves the way for a multi-layered analysis on the nature and the direction of our higher educational trajectories.

In the U.S. about 60% of education doctorate recipients between 2015 and 2019 took more than 5 years to complete the degree.

Painting a picture of the patience and persistence that doctorate journeys necessitate, the statistic highlighting that approximately 60% of education doctorate recipients in the U.S., between 2015 and 2019, spent over half a decade pursuing their degrees, brings forth a valuable facet of the doctorate landscape. This duration exceeds the often presumed 3-4 years that many anticipate for a doctorate degree, revealing an impactful narrative about the realities of commitment to academic achievement, perseverance, and the considerable intellectual endeavor involved. This data serves as an important compass for future candidates, aiding in time management foresight, mental preparation, and engagement strategy for their arduous scholarly voyage.

Psychology was the field with the highest share of doctorate recipients being women in the U.S. in 2019 (78%).

Highlighting the dominance of women in the field of Psychology, with an impressive 78% share of doctorates awarded in the U.S. in 2019, provides crucial insights into evolving educational dynamics for a blog post about Doctorate Statistics. This figure underscores a pivotal shift toward female preeminence in this academic pursuit, which showcases their growing influence in the research and professional environments of psychology. It also helps paint a comprehensive picture of current academic trends, draws attention to areas of gender imbalance in other realms of study, and provokes further discussions about the role of women in academia.

In Germany, more than half (57%) of doctorate degrees granted in 2017 were in science and engineering.

An intriguing exploration of doctorate trends in Germany reveals a significant leaning toward science and engineering disciplines, with a striking 57% of doctorate degrees in 2017 conferred in these fields. The weight of this figure underscores a potential propensity for scientific and technical proficiency in the nation’s academic culture, it suggests a sturdy foundation for technological innovation and growth in these sectors. This deduction transcends mere numbers on a page, handily coloring an outline of a nation’s intellectual right of way — one marked by the inquisitive dazzle of labs and the calculated logic of engineering blueprints.

In Sweden, the number of doctoral degrees awarded rose by 23% between 2007 and 2017.

Salient among the deluge of doctorate statistics is the change within Sweden; as the number of doctoral degrees conferred scaled up by a robust 23% between 2007 and 2017. This shift has potent ties to the broader discourse on the surging value of higher education, and the premium placed on advancing one’s studies. The data from Sweden signifies a broader global trend reflecting the intensifying quest for in-depth knowledge and specialization. It also highlights Sweden’s dedication to academic achievement and continued learning, serving as a telling benchmark for comparison with other nations. With such an illuminating statistic in the conversation, the landscape of doctoral studies unravels further, offering nuanced insights into the ever-evolving dynamics of higher education.

In Japan, women earned 24.8% of all doctorates awarded in 2018.

Highlighting that women in Japan earned 24.8% of all doctorates awarded in 2018 punctuates the powerful narrative of gender dynamics in higher education within the island nation. In the realm of Doctorate Statistics, it provides crucial insights into progress, or lack thereof, in demolishing the traditional gender imbalances. It serves as a stark reminder that despite improvements, women’s academic achievement, particularly at the doctoral level, still lags behind in a rulebook that is largely determined by patriarchal norms. The statistic is a critical yardstick of the social, cultural, and institutional roadblocks women face on the pathway to academic excellence, underlining the necessity for policies fostering gender parity in educational attainment.

In the United States, 55% of all doctorate recipients in 2019 had no educational debt.

The insightful data revealing that 55% of all doctorate recipients in the United States in 2019 had no educational debt, paints an impactful picture of the roadmap to achieving a doctorate. It is a testament to the strategic financial planning and possible funding opportunities utilised by these graduates in navigating an often pricey educational journey. This striking statistic not only offers an encouraging outlook for prospective doctorate candidates concerned about debt, but also prompts a deeper discussion on the mechanisms that enable such an occurrence, thus adding a dynamic layer to our exploration of Doctorate Statistics in this blog post.

The percentage of doctorate holders employed in academia in the U.S. was about 43% in 2019.

Highlighting a figure like the 43% employment of doctorate holders in academia in 2019 provides ample insights into the doctorate landscape in the U.S. It sheds light on the demand and absorption of highly educated professionals within the academic sphere, acting as an important indicator for emerging doctorate aspirants contemplating career paths. Moreover, this statistic is a mirror reflecting the interest of doctorates in pursuing an academic career and the extent to which academia is able to accommodate them. Therefore, it’s a key piece of the puzzle, enriching the discussions surrounding the market dynamics and career trajectories of doctorate holders.

In China, the number of doctorate degrees awarded increased from 1,168 in 1978 to 77,989 in 2020.

Presenting a stunning testament to its academic and socio-economic evolution, China has witnessed a remarkable surge in doctorate degrees awarded from a modest 1,168 in 1978 to a whopping 77,989 in 2020. This statistic serves as a key pillar within our exploration of Doctorate Statistics, underscoring the nation’s relentless drive to foster a knowledge-based economy, empowered by high-level skills and innovative capacity. This dramatic ascent not only illuminates China’s significant focus on research and development but also reflects the expanding global footprint of Chinese academicians and researchers, thus constituting a crucial dimension of contemporary global academia.

Of doctorate holders from EU countries in 2016, 34% were women.

Highlighting the statistic ‘Of doctorate holders from EU countries in 2016, 34% were women’, casts a spotlight on the gender balance in the realm of academia. It is an essential keynote considering that women’s representation in the highest echelons of academic qualifications is frequently overlooked. Unveiling this data can stimulate a dialogue on gender gaps, work towards parity and develop policies to foster inclusive growth in academia. Additionally, it serves as a measure for educators and policy-makers to identify the barriers and create opportunities for women to rise to the pinnacle of academic ladder.

More than 40% of the PHD students in the Netherlands are international students.

With a prolific representation of over 40% of international students in Dutch PHD programs, this statistic heralds the thriving global appeal of the Netherlands education system. It underscores a potent internationalization of the doctorate landscape, signifying the allure of the Netherlands as a hub for research opportunities, intellectual growth, and cultural exchange. In the context of analyzing Doctorate Statistics, this figure paints a rich picture of diversity, identifies the country’s potential for global scholarly engagement, as well as underscores its role in reshaping the contours of international educational discourse.

Conclusion

Thorough understanding and proper application of doctorate statistics is a critical skill for any researcher or scholar aiming to advance knowledge in their field. The ability to compile, analyze, interpret, and communicate complex data is fundamental to diverse areas, such as social, medical, and physical sciences. Furthermore, a strong foundation in doctorate statistics empowers individuals to challenge existing theories and create innovative new ones, fostering scientific and intellectual progress. Therefore, the importance of becoming proficient in these complex statistical methods cannot be overstated for those seeking high-level research careers.

References

0. – https://www.www.hesa.ac.uk

1. – https://www.ec.europa.eu

2. – https://www.nces.ed.gov

3. – https://www.ncses.nsf.gov

4. – https://www.www.nsf.gov

5. – https://www.www.vsnu.nl

6. – https://www.www150.statcan.gc.ca

7. – https://www.www.mext.go.jp

8. – https://www.www.bmbf.de

9. – https://www.www.moe.gov.cn

10. – https://www.english.uka.se

FAQs

What is a doctorate degree?

A doctorate degree, also called a Ph.D., is the highest level of academic degree awarded by universities in most countries. Doctoral degrees often involve several years of academic study and research in a specific field of study.

How long does it take to earn a doctorate degree?

The time it takes to earn a doctorate degree can vary widely depending on the study field, university, and individual student pace. However, it typically takes between 3 to 6 years.

What are some common fields in which one can earn a doctorate?

Virtually every academic field offers the opportunity for a doctorate, though some of the most common include medicine, psychology, education, engineering, literature, and various sciences like biology and physics.

What kinds of jobs can people get with a doctorate degree?

People with doctorate degrees are qualified for a variety of jobs depending on their field of study. This can include becoming a professor, researcher, consultant, or a specialist in their field. Some doctorate holders also work in leadership roles in companies and organizations.

Is it necessary to have a master's degree before pursuing a doctorate?

It's not always necessary to have a master's degree before pursuing a doctorate. Some programs allow students to begin their doctoral studies after completing a bachelor's degree, while other programs require a master's degree. It usually depends on the field of study and the specific university's requirements.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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