Introduction
Honorary degrees, especially Honorary Doctorates, often make headlines when public figures receive them. Yet, despite their ceremonial importance and long-standing academic tradition, many people misunderstand what these degrees actually represent. In India, where titles like “Doctor” carry significant social meaning, the confusion around honorary degrees can lead to unrealistic expectations, misrepresentation, or even legal concerns. In this blog, we clear the air by addressing the most common misconceptions about honorary doctorates.
Misconception 1: “An Honorary Doctorate Is the Same as a Regular PhD”
This is perhaps the most common misunderstanding. A regular PhD requires years of study, research, submission of a thesis, and successful completion of a viva voce. It is an earned academic qualification.
An Honorary Doctorate, on the other hand, is a symbolic title given in recognition of someone’s contributions to society. It does not require academic study and cannot be used to claim academic or professional expertise.
Universities and the UGC in India make it clear: honorary degrees are not equivalent to academic degrees. Using one inappropriately in job applications or professional documents can lead to reputational damage or disqualification.
Misconception 2: “Anyone Can Get One if They Pay the Right Person”
This belief has unfortunately gained traction due to unverified organisations offering fake honorary degrees for a fee. These “institutions” operate outside academic regulations and often use foreign names, digital certificates, or online-only platforms to appear legitimate.
In reality, authentic honorary doctorates are awarded only by UGC-recognised universities with proper governance and approval processes. No respected institution will ask for money in return for an honorary degree.
If someone is offering you such a degree for a price, it’s not a mark of honour—it’s a scam.
Misconception 3: “Recipients Can Freely Use ‘Dr.’ Without Clarification”
In India, the prefix “Dr.” is typically associated with academic or medical achievement. Honorary doctorate recipients may be introduced as “Doctor” in ceremonial settings, but ethical usage requires clarity.
Best practices include:
- Using “Dr. (Honoris Causa)” or stating “Honorary Doctorate recipient”
- Not listing it under academic qualifications in CVs or job applications
- Avoiding the title in legal or official documentation
While there is no legal penalty for casual usage, misleading others by implying academic qualification is problematic, especially in education or research sectors.
Misconception 4: “Only Celebrities Get Honorary Degrees”
While high-profile individuals like actors, musicians, or business leaders often receive honorary doctorates, many lesser-known but deeply impactful individuals are also honoured.
Recipients include:
- Rural healthcare workers
- Environmental activists
- Grassroots educators
- Scientists and inventors with societal impact
The deciding factor is not fame, but contribution, integrity, and alignment with the university’s values.
Misconception 5: “Honorary Doctorates Are Just a Formality”
Some people believe honorary degrees are handed out casually or for publicity. While this may be true in rare cases, most Indian universities follow a formal selection process, including:
- Nominations from academic councils
- Detailed review of the nominee’s work
- Approval from governing bodies
- Conferral during official convocations
Far from being casual, the process often reflects a university’s core values and commitment to societal good.
Conclusion
Honorary doctorates are often misunderstood, misused, or even marketed unethically, especially in the digital age. But at their core, they are a symbol of respect—not an academic license, not a paid certificate, and certainly not a shortcut to being called “Doctor.”
If you’ve been honoured with one, it’s something to be proud of—but using it responsibly ensures that its value remains respected in public and academic life. And if you’re considering an honorary degree or verifying one, it’s always wise to seek information from credible, neutral sources.