What is an honorary doctorate?

An honorary doctorate is a degree that has been given to someone who has not fulfilled the requirements of the degree but has been determined to have made a valuable contribution to society. In order to get a doctorate degree, there are several requirements such as classes, a residency and/or a dissertation. Working on a doctorate degree can take years to complete. However, an honorary doctoral degree as described in Latin, “honoris causa” or “for the sake of honor.” These degrees do not hold any weight, other than being a gift or recognition from respected institutions such as Oxford, Harvard, or Yale. In fact, the first honorary doctorate was awarded in 1478, to an English nobleman, who had royal connections and a lot of money at his disposal.

An honorary degree is a way for a college to gain some notoriety, and more than likely, a sizeable donation from the one who is receiving the degree. There are many celebrities who have been given honorary doctorates, and many of these celebrities give back to the schools which have given them this compliment.