ph d or phd on business card

How to use the PhD title and all the little doctorate “rules”… use ph.d etc the correct way.

There are many conventions in the academic world that can make it difficult to navigate the philosophiae doctor title. The PhD title is awarded to those who have completed a doctoral degree but, not many people know how to use it once they have it.

It’s best to use PhD not Ph.D in most cases!

This article will go through everything you need to know about using the PhD title and when you can start using it.

The “rules” are relatively simple and can be broken as they are not officially set in stone – other than when you can officially call yourself a doctor.

There is no one correct answer but it may be misleading if you use the PhD title incorrectly. Here are the recommendations for effective communication for a PhD graduate.

It very much depends on the setting. Here are some examples of how I would use both the titles awarded to me after my PhD degree.

How do you Write PhD correctly after a name? Is it ph d or phd and ph.d? Abbreviation explained

It can be confusing to know exactly how to write PhD after your name as a person with a doctoral degree. Which bits are capitalised for a person with a doctoral degree? Is there a ‘.’ In the middle?

When writing a name with a PhD after it, the correct way to do so is to use “PhD” or “Ph.D. or Ph D”

Depending on the preference of the individual, either form can be used.

However, if the individual has a business card that states their degree in full, then the more formal “Doctor of Philosophy” should be used.

It is important to note that using “PhD” without any periods is incorrect; this abbreviation should only be used in informal contexts such as emails or text messages. I tend to use PhD in my YouTube videos and some people have pointed out that this is incorrect…

Following the individual’s preferred format will ensure that their name and credentials are properly represented.

Should you use Dr as well as PhD?

Some people like to use Dr and PhD in their official titles. There are a couple of important points that you need to know about markers and academic titles.

• A person can have more than one marker in their name. For example my full title is Dr Andrew Stapleton, PhD, MChem.
• The doctor title at the front can be used as a variant to the PhD at the end.

It can be a little bit ambiguous if I was to use Dr Andrew Stapleton, PhD as there are two markers. This could mean that I have two PhD’s, it could mean that I have a PhD and a medical doctorate, or it could just be that I want to use both the doctor and the PhD tags for the one degree.

However, in my experience, I still like to use both the title of doctor at the front and the PhD tag at the end of my name for official purposes.

Academics would rarely use the PhD suffix in everyday communication. They would much rather just use the doctor title.

What is the proper title for a PhD with a doctorate degree?

The proper title for a PhD is Doctor of Philosophy. However, some teachers and professors like to be referred to without their official title.

If you are not sure about how your professor, lecturer, or friend with a PhD wishes to be officially addressed you can ask them.

Most of the time, I like to refer to my colleagues with their doctor title for official purposes, but I do not include the type of doctoral degree at the end of their name. That is much better suited to a business card.

Your lecture may wish to be referred to as:

• Dr [last name]
• Dr [first name]

Asking them in the early stages of your relationship is the best way to work out which one they prefer.

If in doubt, always go for the more formal name and nomenclature.

When can you start to use your PhD title after your doctorate? As a PhD student? After your phd thesis?

When you have earned your PhD, you, as a person with a doctoral degree, can start using your title immediately. Although, it can be a little bit confusing as to when you have actually passed your PhD. Is it when you have submitted your dissertation for the advanced degree? Is it when you have received the comments back?

The University of Adelaide says that you can use it from your conferral date:

Students can be conferred on one of five dates during the year and for PhD students the conferral date will be the first available following the completion of all the academic requirements of your degree, including final thesis lodgement and the disbursement of any outstanding financial obligations to the University.

I started using my PhD title as soon as my confirmation letter arrived at my house. It was the first letter from the University that referred to me as Dr Stapleton. I was incredibly excited.

Generally, it is acceptable to use the title “Dr.” both professionally and socially but socially, people very rarely use it – at least in Australia. But you should never use it if you are a PhD student, PhD candidate or enrolled in a PhD program without a previous PhD qualification. 

I do use it in professional settings but it always makes me feel a little bit awkward.

However, there may be some restrictions for certain settings . For example, if have a research degree resulting in a doctor title and you are working in a medical setting – some institutions do not like you to use Dr as it can confuse patients into thinking that you have a medical degree. 

Instead, they ask that you use the PhD tag at the end of your name rather than the doctoral title for official and professional communications.

What is the correct way to write PhD?

When writing about someone’s PhD, the correct way is to write the term in full and capitalize each letter.

This should be done for all academic degrees, not just PhDs.

For example, it would be “Doctor of Philosophy” or “PhD” instead of “Ph.D.”, “Dr.”, or “DPhil”.

Additionally, it is common to mention the field of study in which the degree was earned if known, such as “Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics”. It is also good practice to include the institution that granted the degree if it is a recognized one.

When writing about someone’s PhD, use proper capitalization and include relevant information like field of study and institution if known to ensure accuracy.

How do you put a PhD in a title?

Putting a PhD in a title is not as complicated as it may sound.

Generally speaking, the proper way to list a PhD in an academic or professional setting is by writing “Dr.” before the name, followed by the person’s full name and the appropriate abbreviations for their degree.

For example, if John Smith has earned a doctorate in psychology, his credentials would be listed as “Dr. John Smith, Ph.D.”

In some cases, such as when addressing someone formally in speech or on a business card, it may also be acceptable to list their credentials as “John Smith, Ph.D.”

Depending on context and personal preference, some people may also choose to list their higher degrees after their names by writing out the entire degree instead of just its abbreviation.

For example, John Smith could choose to write his full title as “John Smith, Doctor of Psychology”

However, I have not seen this in real academic life.

Should the font size of Ph.D. be the same as someone’s name?

The question of whether the font size of a Ph.D. should be the same as someone’s name is an interesting one.

On one hand, it could be argued that the Ph.D. deserves to be highlighted and therefore should be given a larger font size than someone’s name to denote its importance.

On the other, it could be argued that this would not be necessary or appropriate, and that treating everyone equally regardless of their title or degree is more important.

It depends on context and usage – if both names appear in the same document then they should likely have the same font size; however, if one appears in a formal setting such as a diploma or certificate, then it may make sense to give it a larger font size than someone’s name to emphasize its importance and significance.

Ph.Ds (or PhDs) are an important academic achievement and should be respected accordingly but without going overboard by giving them overly large fonts sizes which can take away from rather than add to their importance.

Wrapping up – doctoral title rules

This article has been over everything you need to know that using the PhD title properly and effectively, since the person has worked hard to earn a degree very few people have.

The doctor title can be used in place of the PhD and for incredibly formal communications, such as a business email or card, you can use both.

However, sometimes using both can cause confusion as to whether or not there is a reason first using both the doctor and PhD tags. Nonetheless, many people still use both.

Frequently Asked Questions about using PhD or Ph.d

1. what does phd stand for.

A PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy , which is a doctoral degree that represents the highest level of academic achievement in a specific field of study.

2. Is Ph.d the same as PhD?

Yes, Ph.d is the abbreviation for Doctor of Philosophy , and both terms are used interchangeably to refer to the same academic degree .

3. Can I use the title ‘Doctor’ with a PhD?

Individuals who hold a PhD have the right to use the title “Doctor” in front of their name as they are a person with a doctoral degree .

4. What is the correct way to write PhD?

The correct way to write PhD is with no spaces and with both letters capitalized, following the standard abbreviation for Doctor of Philosophy .

5. How do I abbreviate Doctor of Philosophy?

You can abbreviate Doctor of Philosophy as PhD , which is the most commonly used abbreviation for this type of doctoral degree .

6. Can I use both the title ‘Dr.’ and ‘PhD’ together?

Yes, you can use both the title ‘Dr.’ and ‘PhD’ together to denote your academic achievement as a holder of a doctorate degree .

7. What is a dissertation in relation to a PhD?

A dissertation is a scholarly document that Ph.D candidates are required to submit as part of their research degree in a specific field.

8. Who is considered a PhD candidate?

A PhD candidate is a student enrolled in a PhD program working towards the completion of their doctoral studies.

9. Is a PhD also referred to as a Doctorate?

Yes, a PhD is also commonly referred to as a Doctorate , signifying the attainment of the highest

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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Should I Write Ph.D. or PhD? (Complete Guide)

As some of you are probably aware, the kind of English used on my side of the pond (England) is sometimes a bit different to the English used in the land of burgers and Trump.

Some words are spelt differently. But others just have a few bits of grammar difference.

Today, I want to look at the difference between Ph.D. and PhD. We’ll look at which one is correct, what it stands for, and why it’s a bit odd that it stands for that.

Should I Write Ph.D. Or PhD?

It is correct to write both Ph.D. and PhD. Which one is best to use depends on where you are in the world. In Great Britain, they tend to use Ph.D. In the United States of America, they prefer to use Ph.D.

What Does Ph.D. Or PhD Stand For?

Let’s try to understand what Ph.D. stands for.

It stands for two things. And it doesn’t stand for one or the other, it stands for both of them at the same time.

The first thing is “Doctor of Philosophy” and the second is “Philosophiae Doctor”. As the eagle-eyed among you may have noticed, “Philosophiae” is not English. It’s in Latin.

This goes back to the days when the only people who needed university were high thinkers and philosophers.

Why Americans And Brits Disagree On Ph.D. Or PhD

This could help us to understand why Brits prefer PhD but Americans prefer Ph.D.

Perhaps, according to the Brits, it stands for “Philosophiae Doctor”. But, according to the Americans, it stands for “Doctor or Philosophy”.

After all, the Brits do have a habit of trying to sound smarter. But, whichever one you use, people on both sides should know what you’re saying.

Why Ph.D. Or PhD Is A Bit Strange

Now, I want you all to understand how strange it is to call anyone with a PhD a “doctor of Philosophy”.

Let’s say someone gets a Ph.D. in history.

Well, first of all, is she really a doctor? If you break your leg, she’s not the first person you’ll go to for help.

But not only that, she studied history, not philosophy. So, she’s called a doctor of philosophy despite not being a doctor and not having studied history.

Yet, for some reason, we still call her a “Doctor of philosophy”.

Where Does The Word “Doctor” Come From?

When most of us hear the word “Doctor”, we think of someone who makes us better when we’re sick. And there may be a few of you who think of a skinny man who travels through time in a Police Box.

But originally, “Doctor” was Latin for teacher. Through time, you were able to get a “PhD” in more things than just philosophy.

And, if you wanted to become what we think of as a “Doctor”, you would need to have a “doctorate” in medicine.

Technically, “Doctor” would be the wrong word. But it’s become so common, it’s managed to “common” itself enough to become the right word.

How To Get A Ph.D. Or PhD

Now I’m afraid you can’t just walk into a university and walk out with a PhD. There are steps you need to take before you get there.

First of all, you will need to do a Bachelor’s degree. This is the degree you do when you first enter university. There are some jobs where a bachelors is enough.

Let’s be honest here, most of the time you spend doing a bachelor is just having fun.

If you want to, you can then progress onto doing a master’s degree. This is a bit more high level, and you tend to need to work for it.

Once you have your bachelors you may decide to go on to get a PhD. If you go for this, you will be officially able to call yourself an intellectual.

What Kind Of Word Is Ph.D. Or PhD?

There are three ideas for what kind of word Ph.D. is. I’ll tell you all of them and let you make up your own mind.

A PhD is something you have. You work towards it, and once you’ve handed in all of your papers, you get a PhD.

A PhD is also something you are. If you have a PhD, you might say “I’m a PhD.”

It can also be a title, similar to “Sir” or “OBE”.

If your name is James Smith, and you are PhD, your name and title could be, Mr James Smith PhD.

How To Address Someone With A Ph.D. Or PhD

Talking of this man called James Smith, there are several ways to address and introduce him.

• If you have a Ph.D., you are allowed to call yourself “Doctor” even if you don’t have a PhD in medicine. Therefore, if he wants, James could be called Dr Smith.
• Maybe he doesn’t want to be confused for a medical doctor but still wants to show off his Ph.D. In that case, we can call him James Smith PhD.
• But, like many with a Ph.D., he may not want to mention it unless it’s important. If he’s one of these people, we should just call him Mr Smith.

Ph.D. Or PhD Vs Doctorate

Asking “What’s the difference between a PhD and a doctorate?” is a bit like asking what the difference is between an apple and a fruit.

Just like an apple is a kind of fruit, a PhD is a kind of doctorate. However, it’s not the only doctorate there is.

Here are some forms of doctorate you may want to know.

Doctor of philosophy. But now also means Doctor of something there isn’t a doctorate for.

Doctorate in business.

Doctorate in engineering.

Doctorate in education

Doctor of medicine.

If you were wondering whether you should write “PhD” or “Ph.D.”, you can write either, both are grammatically correct, and both are very common terms that mean the same thing.

The only slight difference is that “PhD” is more common in England and “Ph.D.” is more common in America. This is perhaps because the British believe it stands for “philosophiae doctor” but Americans see it as “Doctor of Philosophy”.

But, no matter whether you use “PhD” or “Ph.D.”, to have one, you neither need to be a doctor nor study philosophy. All you need to do is stay in university for long enough to be able to get yourself a PhD. Then, you can become a PhD, and your title will be PhD.

You may also like: DSc Degree vs. PhD Degree – What’s the Difference? 9 Correct Ways to Write PhD Title on a Business Card

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

• “At University” Or “In University” – Easy Preposition Guide
• James’s or James’? (Correct Possessive Form)
• Is It “Doctor’s Appointment” or “Doctors appointment”?
• Universities or University’s or Universities’? (Easy Guide)

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Research Tips and Infromation

Is it Necessary to Have Business Cards for PhD Students?

In the world of academia, networking and professionalism are the pillars upon which promising careers are built. For PhD students, this holds particularly true as they navigate the intricate paths of research, mentorship, and collaboration. Yet, in an increasingly digital age, where virtual connections abound, the timeless charm and efficacy of a small piece of paper often go overlooked—the business card. In this digital era, is there still a place for business cards in the academic landscape? We believe the answer is a resounding yes.

A business card for PhD students is a small, professionally designed card that contains essential contact information, academic titles, and optional elements such as research interests, and serves as a tangible representation of a PhD student’s professional identity. It is a tool used to facilitate networking, establish credibility, and make a lasting impression in academic and professional settings.

In the following article, we will delve into the significance of business cards for PhD students. We will explore how these modest, pocket-sized pieces of professionalism can leave an indelible mark on your academic journey. From crafting the perfect design to understanding what crucial details should grace your card, we’ll provide comprehensive guidance for every aspiring scholar. Moreover, we will discuss when and how to distribute these cards for maximum impact. After all, networking isn’t merely about exchanging contact information; it’s about building meaningful connections that can propel your academic career to new heights.

Join us as we unravel the art and science of business cards for PhD students. Discover how these small, tangible tokens can help you make a professional impression and open doors to academic opportunities you never thought possible. Whether you’re a doctoral candidate just embarking on this scholarly adventure or a seasoned researcher looking to enhance your professional image, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to stand out in the academic world.

So, grab your notepad, or perhaps, your digital device, and let’s embark on this exploration of the timeless tool that can elevate your academic journey—your very own business card.

Introduction

The value of business cards for phd students, essential information in phd business card, optional elements in phd business card, professional design for phd business card, colour and branding for phd business card, etiquette and follow-up.

Networking and professionalism are the cornerstones of success for PhD students in today’s academic and professional landscape.

Imagine you’re at a prestigious academic conference, surrounded by brilliant minds in your field, and you strike up a conversation with a renowned professor. The discussion is insightful, and you’re on the brink of a meaningful connection that could potentially shape your academic journey. However, when the time comes to exchange contact information, all you have is a hurriedly scribbled email address on a napkin. In this fast-paced world, a simple piece of paper could be the difference between a fleeting conversation and a lasting connection. This is where the humble business card steps in.

Pursuing a PhD is a demanding endeavour, often involving years of dedicated research, academic discussions, and the quest for knowledge. In this journey, networking and professionalism are paramount. Building relationships with mentors, peers, and experts in your field can open doors to opportunities, collaborations, and future career prospects. Yet, the question remains: Why do business cards still matter in an age dominated by digital communication and social media connections?

This article aims to shed light on the enduring relevance of business cards for PhD students. We’ll explore how these tangible tokens of professionalism hold the power to make a lasting impression in the academic world.

By the end of this read, you’ll understand not only the value of a well-crafted business card but also how to create one that reflects your academic journey and aspirations. Get ready to unravel the secrets of making a memorable mark as a PhD student by mastering the art of business card exchange. Whether you’re at a conference, seminar, or casual meet-and-greet, we’ll guide you on why, what, and how to use these tiny tools effectively.

Business cards play a pivotal role in establishing a professional identity for PhD students. When you exchange a well-designed and thoughtfully crafted business card, you’re not just passing along contact information; you’re making a statement about your professionalism, expertise, and commitment to your field.

Consider this scenario: You meet a potential collaborator or a future employer at an academic event. Instead of fumbling through your pockets or digging for a scrap of paper to write your email address, you confidently present a professionally designed business card. The simple act of handing over this card communicates that you are serious about your work, you pay attention to detail, and you value the connection you’re about to make. It tells the other person that you are invested in your academic journey and eager to engage in professional relationships.

Moreover, a well-designed business card acts as a tangible extension of your academic persona. It reflects your dedication to your field of study, and it becomes an integral part of your personal brand as a PhD student.

• According to a study by the Harvard Business Review, 72% of people judge a person’s professional capabilities based on the quality and design of their business cards. This highlights the significance of making a strong first impression through a well-designed card.
• Anecdotal evidence also demonstrates the value of business cards in professional settings. For instance, Dr. Jane Smith, a renowned professor in the field of neuroscience, recalls how she received a business card from a PhD student at a conference. The card’s design was impressive, and Dr. Smith was so intrigued that she later contacted the student to discuss a potential research collaboration. This illustrates how a business card can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities.

By presenting yourself professionally through a business card, you not only enhance your credibility but also increase the likelihood of future collaborations and academic success.

What to Include on Your PhD Business Card?

A PhD student’s business card should include essential information that allows for easy and effective contact. These core elements typically encompass your name, contact details, and academic title.

Name: Your full name should take centre stage on the card, displayed prominently and legibly. If you have any academic titles (e.g., “Ph.D.” or “Doctor of Philosophy”), these should appear alongside your name to convey your scholarly standing.

Contact Details: Include your professional contact information. This should comprise a professional email address, a phone number where you can be reached, and the physical address of your institution or department. It’s crucial that these details are accurate and up to date.

Academic Title: As a PhD student, your academic title, such as “Ph.D. Candidate” or “Doctoral Researcher,” serves to underscore your academic standing. This title can instil confidence in your peers and potential collaborators and signal that you are actively engaged in advanced studies.

Academic and institutional branding guidelines are paramount in maintaining consistency across all university-related materials. For example, if your institution has specific guidelines for font style, logo usage, or colour schemes, adhere to them when designing your business card. This ensures that your card aligns with your university’s branding and reinforces your affiliation.

While essential information establishes your academic identity, optional elements can add depth and richness to your business card, providing insights into your academic interests and digital presence.

Research Interests: Including a brief list of your research interests or academic specializations can be a valuable addition. This provides recipients with a quick glimpse into your areas of expertise. For instance, a card for a psychology student might list “Cognitive Psychology” and “Neuroscience” as research interests.

QR Code: In today’s digital age, incorporating a QR code on your business card can be a smart move. This QR code can link to your personal website, academic profile, or LinkedIn page, enabling easy access to more detailed information about your academic journey, publications, and projects.

Optional elements can enhance your card’s effectiveness by facilitating more in-depth connections. For instance, a QR code can direct colleagues or potential collaborators to your online presence, where they can access your research papers, conference presentations, and contact details conveniently. This level of accessibility can strengthen your network and foster future collaborations.

Including both essential and optional elements on your business card helps strike a balance between professional identity and the ability to convey your academic interests and accomplishments effectively.

Design and Formatting Tips for PhD Business Card

Designing your business card with professionalism in mind is essential. A clean and professional design ensures that your card conveys the right impression to those who receive it. Here are some tips for creating a business card with a professional design:

• Keep it Simple: A clutter-free design is key. Avoid overcrowding the card with too much information or complex graphics. Simplicity often equals sophistication.
• Legibility is Crucial: Use clear, easy-to-read fonts. The font size should be large enough to ensure that your name and other details can be read without difficulty.
• Visual Appeal: While simplicity is crucial, that doesn’t mean your card has to be dull. You can add a touch of visual appeal through tasteful graphics, such as your university’s logo or an academic-themed image related to your field of study.
• Consistency: Ensure that your business card design aligns with your personal or institutional branding, maintaining a cohesive look with your other academic materials.

According to a study published in the Journal of Business Research, a well-designed business card is more likely to leave a positive impression on recipients. The study revealed that 90% of people believe that a visually appealing business card indicates a high-quality service or product.

Colours and branding are critical aspects of your business card’s design. They play a significant role in shaping your card’s visual identity and impact.

• Use of Colors: While you can certainly add colour to your card, it’s important to use a professional and consistent colour scheme. Overly vibrant or clashing colours may detract from the professionalism of your card. Stick to classic and subdued colour choices.
• Institutional Branding: If you are affiliated with a university or institution, incorporate their branding elements such as the official logo, colours, or fonts. This aligns your card with the institution’s image and can enhance its credibility.

Branding guidelines exist for a reason. They help maintain a unified visual identity for organizations and institutions. When your business card complies with these guidelines, it can subliminally convey trust and credibility. For example, if you’re a PhD student at “X University,” using the university’s official colours and logo can immediately link you to the institution’s reputation and history.

Incorporating these design and branding elements into your business card helps ensure that it not only looks professional but also aligns with your academic and institutional identity, reinforcing your credibility in the eyes of those who receive your card.

When and How to Distribute PhD Business Cards

Timing and context are crucial when distributing your business cards as a PhD student. Identify specific situations and events where it’s appropriate and beneficial to hand out your business cards. Here are some examples of academic and professional gatherings where you can distribute your cards:

• Academic Conferences: One of the most obvious settings is an academic conference. These events gather scholars, researchers, and professionals from your field in one place, providing an excellent opportunity to network and exchange business cards.
• Seminars and Workshops: Attendees at specialized seminars and workshops often share similar interests, making it an ideal setting for networking and card exchange.
• University Events: University-hosted lectures, colloquiums, and social gatherings can also be fruitful for networking among faculty and fellow students.
• Career Fairs: If you’re exploring career options beyond academia, career fairs can be a prime opportunity to connect with potential employers or organizations.

Studies in the field of networking and career development have consistently shown that in-person events like conferences and professional gatherings significantly contribute to building valuable connections. For example, a survey by Networking Now revealed that 85% of professionals believed in-person meetings are essential for building and maintaining business relationships.

I have written several articles related to Research conferences . Please visit to learn more about how to identify predatory and good conferences, how to dress for the conference and how to make research presentations at research conferences and many more.

Distributing your business card is just the first step; proper etiquette and follow-up are equally crucial. Here’s advice on how to exchange business cards professionally and how to maintain connections:

• Exchange Cards Thoughtfully: When exchanging business cards, do so at an appropriate moment in the conversation. Take the time to engage in a meaningful discussion before offering your card. When you receive someone else’s card, take a moment to read it and acknowledge the information.
• Follow Up Promptly: After the event, follow up with the individuals you’ve connected with. Send a personalized email expressing your appreciation for the conversation and expressing your interest in further collaboration or communication.
• Maintain Regular Contact: Building professional relationships requires ongoing effort. Stay in touch with your network by sending occasional updates on your academic progress or by engaging in discussions related to your field of study.

A study published in the Harvard Business Review found that following up after networking events significantly increases the likelihood of turning initial connections into lasting professional relationships. For example, a well-crafted follow-up email can lead to collaborations, mentorships, or job opportunities.

By distributing your business cards in appropriate settings, observing proper etiquette, and diligently following up with your contacts, you maximize the potential of your network and pave the way for meaningful collaborations and career advancement as a PhD student.

The article emphasizes that business cards remain a valuable tool for PhD students, allowing them to make a professional impression, build meaningful connections, and enhance their academic and professional journeys. By understanding the value, design, and effective use of business cards, PhD students can take full advantage of the networking opportunities available to them.

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PhD or Ph.D? Which is correct?

PhD and Ph.D are both correct ways to indicate the title, or honorific, of a doctor. However, Ph.D isn’t nearly as common as PhD. In fact, Ph.D is an old-fashioned method of writing it. But, there’s nothing wrong with using it that way. However, it’s more visually correct and recognizable in the modern world as PhD.

So, while there aren’t really any rules to remember for using PhD or Ph.D, it’s important to understand what it means. Plus the history of it will give you a little trivia.

Ph.D History

The earliest known documented use of Ph.D is from 1869. It’s an abbreviation of the Latin phrase, “Philosophiae Doctor” or “Doctor of Philosophy.” But “Philosophiae” has roots in ancient Greek, which translates into “love of wisdom.” To call someone a “doctor” is another way to say “learned person.”

The title PhD is the more common version in modern times and it means the same thing. These are people who receive doctorate degrees, which is the highest level of education someone can get. As it was back in 1869, the placement of the honorific can be before or after a name.

Examples of both PhD and Ph.D

The examples below show the myriad of ways in how to use and where to place PhD or Ph.D as an honorific for a person.

Dr. Ken Wellington, PhD

Professor Cynthia Kline, PhD

In many cases, doctors will have other degrees of study alongside their doctoral education. These additional honorifics indicate that.

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Professional designations and degrees on business cards and e-mail signatures [duplicate]

I'm going to be creating some simple business cards for myself going forward, and would like some advice on the addition of my degrees and professional designations to the card.

So far, the planned text, aside of the graphics, phone numbers, e-mail address, etc, would look like (using made-up names):

The P.Eng. designation is critical, as it means I am a "true" engineer, have the requisite supervised experience, no criminal record, have completed the law and ethics training, and so forth. In Canada, one is not allowed to have the word "engineer" in one's job title or on his/her business cards without earning the P.Eng. designation. It would be like calling one's self a "medical doctor" without the right credentials, and you can be fined heavily for it.

At least one academic degree should be listed, but I opted to list both my PhD and Masters in Engineering, as in my neck of the woods (North America), at least in the tech sector, there is a common trend where people will do just a Bachelors and a PhD, or sometimes just a PhD, usually from a degree mill. The common sentiment is that people who have taken this route are "professional students" with no relevant job skills, or the degree is meaningless if it smells like a degree mill; while one with the Bachelors, Masters, and PhD plus at least so many years of experience can actually be hired for real work. I've even known several individuals who don't even include their PhD on CVs/resumes for this reason.

I opted to leave out the Bachelors of Engineering since I feel it would be overkill. Finally, I feel the FIEEE designation shows a lot of committment to my field, and opted to include it.

So, my question is as follows: Does this seem to be overkill or snooty in professional or academic circles in North America? My main concern is listing two degrees, and using the format described above has already gotten me some vicious comments on e-mail threads for being "elitist", though the individuals who made those comments tend to exhibit anti-academic sentiments anyways, so I'm probably just (unintentionally) rubbing salt in a wound or hitting a nerve.

Also, if anyone could weight in on whether this is acceptable in Western Europe (I sometimes work with Field Application Engineers in France, UK, and Italy), it would be very helpful.

My plan is to use this advice to create multiple sets of business cards and/or e-mail signatures if there is enough variance in cultural attitudes to justify it. Thank you!

• professionalism
• business-cards
• 2 The answers here are likely to be very opinion based, especially when "snooty" is one of your options. I would think that P.Eng and Ph.D would be sufficient. The Ph.D either includes, or supersedes the Masters degree, and nobody would doubt your commitment to your profession unless you demonstrate your lack of commitment, so the FIEEE is not really necessary. IMO. (Southwestern USA, fwiw) –  Kent A. Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 17:06
• 3 Your business card is not your CV. If you feel like the only way you can be taken seriously is to beat people over the head with your qualifications, you're doing it wrong. –  Eric Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 19:00
• @Eric A business cad doesnt need to impress people but rather should be a small piece of paper which yields all information about a person. And if this guy is good at doing a specific or multiple thing (s) that it would be nice if other people would be able to see it because it adds value to the person and thus to the ability to connect to other people –  BlueWizard Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:42
• 1 @JonasDralle Again, your business card is not your CV. It's a way for people to remember you after meeting you and contact you. If you couldn't make your qualifications known and yourself memorable when handing out the card, you're doing it wrong. –  Eric Commented Aug 10, 2015 at 3:28
• The commentary about needing to have a Masters in addition to the PhD to be taken seriously sounds very odd. –  Chan-Ho Suh Commented Aug 10, 2015 at 5:41

3 Answers 3

It seems your question can be answered with the old cliche "You can't make everyone happy".

That's something that's very important to consider with personal branding. Are some people going to think you're an academic intellectual elitist with your large degree listings? Sure maybe...

But at the same time aren't a lot of people going to find your degree set as something that designates you as a great contractor to give their engineering department (or whatever they need consulting on) the boost forward it really needs? Probably. I think you have two pretty good options here...

You could experiment and collect metrics from your personal brand with different levels of degree suffixes, and see which one gains you the most customers and engagements with as much control of other variables as possible.

(What I would do) Is you can kind of apply the "have your cake and eat it too" principle by drawing minimum attention to the degree principle, which seems to (in my opinion) say "Hey I got all these awesome degrees but I'm totally not snooty about it". That best way to do that is to either put a more subtle color contrast on the suffix and/or make them smaller.

For example:

Hopefully that helped and to harp on that main point, you really can't please everyone, just make sure you're pleasing the most amount of people possible.

• You're very welcome –  salad_bar_breath Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 19:35
• Smaller - good Idea. That small - no. I think you worked hard for those titles and you have every right to show it to the world. This title is now legally part of your name and no one can blame you for using it like it. –  BlueWizard Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:40
• I threw that together in Paint.Net in less than sixty seconds, cut me some slack @JonasDralle lol. I agree it definitely shouldn't be that small but I was just trying to show the concept for content that you want to draw less attention to. I personally totally agree with you and I'm all about parading academic accomplishments (as you can see by my Dean's List awards flaunting on my LinkedIn). However, the intellectual elitist label is an existent one in our society, and I want to help him sell to as many clients as possible, including the ones tossing that label around... –  salad_bar_breath Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:52
• 1 Ah ok. I think it could look pretty good when it's the same font size but has a dark gray as color (not black) with small line thickness. This would look modern and decent without disturbing the eye thru diffrent font sizes. But thats just an Idea –  BlueWizard Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:56
• That would be pretty cool, I think it could work with the same or almost the same font size but I still think it would look good super-scripted. I put the colors on there more to demonstrate contrast, because I have no clue what color theme he was planning to stick on his business cards. Maybe you should start something up in Graphic Design Stack Exchange on how to throw together some sick designs on name/suffix combinations. Send me the link when you do I want to see that. –  salad_bar_breath Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 23:28

Unfortunately this depends a bit on context, culture and the recipient. For a while I had actually two set of business cards, one with the PhD and one with PhD off. PhD is useful in Europe and when interacting with the press and public communication. PhD in day to day business in the US feels pretentious so it's better to leave it off.

Business cards are cheap, so there is no problem in carrying two sets.

I would leave the Master's off. The PhD already implies that you have a master (and a bachelor, and a high school degree etc.), so unless it's in a different field or major, it doesn't add any information.

I'm assuming you are approaching this problem as an independent contractor trying to sell your services directly to potential customers.

You are not selling your credentials. You are selling services or solutions. If your competition with fewer credentials is offering better and cheaper solutions to your potential customers, you have a problem that your credentials alone will not solve. Your crendentials may make you a more trustworthy supplier to new customers, but after the first job, trustworthiness will be defined purely on how well you have already delivered. If you get word-of-mouth recommendations from customers, you can be assured it is not because you have 4 acronyms after your name but rather because you provided a great solution or service.

If you approach it from this angle, you will see that emphasizing your credentials is important, but it should not be the central focus of your message. You should mention your credentials clearly on your website in a section about your background. You should also place enough emphasis on your background and experience to be taken seriously in initial conversations. Your credentials are a small part of this. The main focus of your website and initial conversations, though, should be about how you will meet the potential customer's needs. You should focus on how great your solutions are, how you have provided similar solutions to other customers before, etc.

Once you have a great initial conversation and a great website to entice potential customers, then you should find that your e-mail signature and your business cards become more of a reminder to people of who you are and how to contact you rather than a sales vehicle in their own right. In this context, it should not be necessary to include your credentials everywhere.

If you simply can't resist putting credentials in your signature and on your business cards, try to limit yourself to one that best conveys how having that credential will ensure your solutions are top notch.

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How to Correctly Use the Titles Dr. & PhD With a Name

How to Reference a Person With a PhD

When someone has earned a Doctor of Philosophy, or Ph.D., degree, that person is subsequently referred to as “doctor” in formal speech. The same is true of a person who is a medical doctor, psychologist, dentist or veterinarian. In formal speech, that person should be referred to as “doctor.” However, the rules are different in written form when addressing someone who is called “doctor” in formal speech. In written form, the titles “Dr.” and “Ph.D.” are not interchangeable.

Determine the Type of Doctor

First, you should identify what type of doctor you are addressing. Doctors of medicine and psychology, doctors of dentistry and doctors of veterinary medicine must be addressed differently in comparison to academic doctors who have earned a Doctor of Philosophy doctoral degree. Be advised that there are different types of doctoral degrees. A Doctor of Philosophy degree is just one kind of doctoral degree. There’s also, for example, a Doctor of Education doctoral degree and a Doctor of Psychology doctoral degree. The titles associated with the various doctoral degrees are not interchangeable. Only a person who has earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree should be addressed as Ph.D.

Addressing a Doctor in Writing

Place the title of “Dr.” before the name of a person who is a doctor of medicine or psychology, doctor of dentistry, or doctor of veterinary medicine. For example Dr. George Ross. Always write the word “doctor” in its abbreviated form when it goes before the person’s name. Never write, for example, Doctor George Ross. Do not combine the title of “Dr.” with any other title even if the person could appropriately be addressed by a different title. Never write, for example, “Dr. George Ross, Ph.D.,” even if the person is a medical doctor who has also earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree. Pick one title. Do not use the “Dr.” title when referring to someone who is solely an academic doctor.

Put a comma followed by the title “Ph.D.” after the name of a person who has earned a Doctor of Philosophy doctoral degree. For example Stacey Childs, Ph.D. Do not combine the title of “Ph.D.” with any other title even if the person could appropriately be addressed by a different title. For instance, even if the person being addressed is a doctor of medicine who has also earned a Ph.D., never write, for example, Dr. Stacey Childs, Ph.D. Pick one title. Do not use the “Ph.D.” title when referring to someone who not earned a Doctor of Philosophy doctoral degree.

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Maya Austen began freelance writing in 2009. She has written for many online publications on a wide variety of topics ranging from physical fitness to amateur astronomy. She's also an author and e-book publisher. Austen has a Bachelor of Arts in communications from the New England Institute of Art and currently lives in Boston, Mass.

Ph.D. or PhD: which is correct?

What is the correct abbreviation for phd answered. .

How to spell PhD? Is it Ph.D. or PhD?

Answer: both are correct, Ph.D. and PhD are correct abbreviations of Doctor of Philosophy or the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor . Apart from these two, another correct abbreviation is DPhil. 

PhD and Ph.D. abbreviations explained 

Although both, PhD without periods and Ph.D. with periods are correct, currently the language is evolving into a more simplified spelling. The current tendency is to write PhD rather than Ph.D. (similarly to the spelling of ‘pm’ instead of ‘p.m.’)

Now let’s look into some examples. 

How to write Ph.D. on a business card?

Examples of ph.d. and phd on business cards.

• Jane Fox, M.D., Ph.D.
• Adam Murphy, PhD
• Charles Newman Ph.D. Candidate Department of Geology

How to use Ph.D. in a sentence? 

Examples of phd and ph.d. usage in a sentence.

• John is currently working towards his PhD. 
• Sylvia has a PhD in chemistry. 
• A PhD is a postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities.
• His current PhD research focuses on second language acquisition. 

How to write Ph.D. in a signature?

Examples of ph.d and phd in signatures.

• Timothy Smith Ph.D. in Psychology Cambridge University 
• Deborah Williams, PhD CEO, Brilliant Ideas 

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How to Write PhD

How to Write PhD – Once you’ve completed your doctorate (PhD), you’ll want to put this achievement at the top of your resume envelope. The problem is how to put this academic milestone to good use if you decide to explore new career opportunities in business or discovered that you truly enjoy academic research.

Writers often use Ph.D. after their names to boost their credibility and professionalism, but what does it mean when the abbreviation doesn’t immediately follow your name?

Table of Contents

How do you Write PhD correctly after a name? Is it ph d or phd?

Here are the steps to write phd correctly:.

• Firstly,  “P”  must be in a capital case.
• Secondly,  “h”  is in small case with no space after  “P”
• Thirdly, use period/full-stop after  “h”
• Fourthly, Write  “D”  in capital case.
• Fifthly, keep Period after  “D”
• Finally, the correct way to write is  Ph.D .
• Or, It can be also written as PhD in a sentence.
• As per APA style, write  Ph. D
• As per Chicago style, write  PhD
• As per MLA style, write it as  Ph. D.

For example this is how to write  PhD title  after your name:  Dr.John Mathew, Ph.D.  You can write PhD after name on your business cards, resumes, CV’s or identity cards or on nameplates etc. Some have confusion with the use of comma and full stops while writing PhD title after name. Here is my indepth review how to write out properly PhD.

Writing a PhD title after name

Use capital “p” and “d” in the word ph.d..

You must write ‘P’ as capital and ‘D’ as capital letters. Though there is no strict rule on how to use capital and small letters, many of them do this way. Both letters which I have just mentioned must be written in Capital because those letters are the heart of the abbreviationPh.D. There is no other way of writing. Even if you search the whole world and ask many people and read many books, this is how PhD title is written.  Sometimes there are possibilities that both letters are written in small letters by mistake. You need to correct instantly if such is the case. Otherwise, it looks awkward when someone looks at it or reads it.  Usually, mistaken words are clearly observed than that of rightly written ones.

Use small letter ‘h’ in the word Ph.D.

The letter ‘h’ is what written small letter in this 3 letter word is.  We write it in a small letter after name because this letter ‘h’ is in the middle of the word Ph.D.  Here also don’t write mistake by using capital letters. This is the reason why many people write a PhD title after the name wrongly. They are confused about where to use capital letters and were not to use small letters. I suggest you practice all the letters in one or other way.

Why do we write a PhD title after the name?

We write a PhD title after the name to know that one has completed his doctoral studies and it is a sign of knowledge and status.  We write a Ph.D. even for other purposes. For example, if someone is working in a university, it is mandatory that his qualification must be known to all the students and as well as the staff. This is why we write the Ph.D. title after the name. Not only in the university but also to the competent authorities who come for an inspection to the university must know the status of the faculty profiles.  So the title Ph.D. is written after every faculty name as a title.

Should we use bold letters

I say a big no. You cannot write bold and fashioned way while writing PhD title after your name. As you write you must make it look similar along with the name without any difference. There is no way that you must write the Ph.D. title in bold fonts. This way, it looks very odd for those who look. Instead of reading your name, they will read Ph.D. firstly. So there is a chance of not remembering your name. So never use bold fonts while writing PhD title after your name.

Should we use Italic Letters

Again it is a big no. Do be too creative while writing a Ph.D. after your name. The use of italics is a big mistake. Do not use such writing in italics. Every time you use italic, again it looks very different from the original name adjacent to it.

Is Ph.D. a title after your name?

Do you think it is a PhD title or just a status?  It is both status and title.  Though in my personal opinion it is not a title, many call it as a title. But if you ask me I would tell it is a status word that is symbolically represented a matter of qualification. This is only my personal opinion about the title of Ph.D. So if at all you have some doubts about how this title arose as a part of history, you must read a vast number of history books about the Ph.D. title. It all requires for you to understand that a Ph.D. is not a title finally and just a resemblance of qualification.

Is it good to put PhD after title in your identity cards?

No, you must not use the title Ph.D. after your name in any type of identity card. These cards are existing irrespective of your qualification. This is meant to identify you as you are. There is no necessity what you have achieved. There is no need for knowing your qualifications. So in any type of identity card which is issued by the government like passport and voter card etc, you cannot use such title after your name. But there is one exception that the identity card at university or college or at job area must be given with Ph.D. title. If you ever need expert help with writing your Doctoral level papers, go to WriteMyPaperHub and send your request to  write my PhD thesis for me .

Should we use the subject name when using a Ph.D. with the name?

This thought is quite awkward. But I must still mention this. There are some who use the subject name after the Ph.D. title along with the name. Like for example Dr. Luke, Ph.D. in Linguistics. Using this way is quite reasonable if there are some important debates or international meetups. Otherwise, I don’t suggest such type of writing after your name.

What happens if you don’t use a Ph.D. after your name?

If you do not use the Ph.D. title after your name, people around you won’t know that you are a doctoral research fellow. So it is very important to let them know it. You can only use this if at all there are some students around you or any known people. If there are unknown people around you, then there is no way that it is mandatory to use a Ph.D. after your name. Anyhow, I say that there is no danger of not using Ph.D. after your name.

Should comma be addded before or after PhD

Yes, a comma is a mandatory thing to be added after Ph.D. This is a rule. Otherwise, it is mixed combined with your original name. It will become part of your name. So comma is good after your name. I have already given the example above on how to put a comma after your name. But let me give here one more example as a matter of understanding.  Dr.Mohima, Ph.D. If you see the name, for example, there is a comma used after the name to separate Ph.D. from it. So try to put a comma. But never use another punctuation mark as such full stop or colon after your name. I have seen people using other punctuation marks like semicolon after name and then they write the title Ph.D. Some don’t use at all. All such things are mistakes. Use the only comma after your name always.

Can we write Dr instead of Ph.D. after the name?

Writing a doctor instead of a Ph.D. means a different thing. So you cannot use such way. As this is not the right format. ‘Dr’ is used at the beginning of the name as another title. But after the name, it must be a Ph.D. and not ‘Dr’

Should we write a Ph.D. at all after one’s name that is too long?

Sometimes it so happens that your name is too long to write Ph.D. after it. During this trouble, you must cut out some part of the name and type PhD as a title after your name. There is no other way to do it.  Usually, longs name are common in some countries like Germany and India. But in the USA we have shorter names. Whatever may be the length, you must try to use the most used name and eliminate the rest of the name. This way you can use the title Ph.D. comfortable after your name. Always try to use the same name. Don’t change the name or cut your name in different ways on different days. These will again a problem to your recognition.

Should we write phd or ph d on business card, welcome banners during functions?

On welcome banners and business cards, it is very important to mention the title Ph.D. This will be more serious if you do not use the Ph.D. title after the name. There are many people watching that public banner. If you do not write the title after the name, you are disrespecting the guest totally. So be aware of using the title ofPh.D. whenever you have public functions or welcome banners or during some important meetings.  This is a sign that others should treat the guest better than the other out there.

Should the font size of Ph.D. be the same as someone’s name?

The name and the title Ph.D. must be in the same size. There must not be unusual differences. Font sizes matter a lot. Don’t use wrong font size or awkward fonts while using your title Ph.D. after your name. The best font could be like Ariel, Lato, Times New Roman, etc. These fonts will look better as a Ph.D. title after your name. Initially, there is some confusion about using the right font. But once you learn the size usage, you are comfortable using them rightly. Even when you write manually, you can easily write with similar size throughout. This requires a good amount of practice to write the Ph.D. title after your name with good font limitations.

10 tips for writing a PhD thesis

Writing up a PhD can often take place in a frenzy of activity in the last few months of your degree study, after years of hard work. But there are some steps that you can take to increase your chances of success.

• Do not be daunted by the task of “writing up”. Work on the text as your PhD takes shape, remember that all writers need editing, and help yourself by using these basic tips to make life easier. Read what great writers say about how to write before you start, and take their advice to heart. There is no dark art to clear, concise work; it is mostly a result of editing, and editing again. Above all, keep Elmore Leonard’s advice in mind: “If it reads like writing…rewrite it.”
• Plan the structure of your thesis carefully with your supervisor. Create rough drafts as you go so that you can refine them as you become more focused on the write-up. Much of writing comprises rewriting so be prepared to rework each chapter many times. Even Ernest Hemingway said: “The first draft of everything is shit.”
• Academic writing does not have to be dry. Inject some flair into your work. Read advice on writing and remember George Orwell’s words in  Why I Write : “Never use the passive where you can use the active”; and Mark Twain’s on adjectives: “When you catch an adjective, kill it.” If you prefer, Stephen King said: “The road to hell is paved with adverbs.”
• Do not write up in chronological order. Work on each chapter while it is fresh in your mind or pertinent to what you are doing at that moment, but come back to it all later and work it up into a consistent, coherent piece, restructuring sections where necessary.
• Think carefully about your writing. Write your first draft, leave it and then come back to it with a critical eye. Look objectively at the writing and read it closely for style and sense. Look out for common errors such as dangling modifiers, subject-verb disagreement and inconsistency. If you are too involved with the text to be able to take a step back and do this, then ask a friend or colleague to read it with a critical eye. Remember Hemingway’s advice: “Prose is architecture, not interior decoration.” Clarity is key.
• Most universities use a preferred style of references. Make sure you know what this is and stick to it. One of the most common errors in academic writing is to cite papers in the text that do not then appear in the bibliography. All references in your thesis need to be cross-checked with the bibliography before submission. Using a database during your research can save a great deal of time in the writing-up process. Helpful software includes EndNote or Paperpile. Managing your bibliography from day one may seem obsessive but it will save you a great deal of time and stress by the end of the PhD process.
• Use a house style. Professional publications such as  Times Higher Education  use a house style guide to ensure consistency in spelling. For example, do not use both -ise spellings and -ize spellings, stick to British spelling and be consistent when referring to organisations or bodies. Because dictionaries vary in their use of hyphenation, use one dictionary and stick to it throughout the writing process. If you consult the  New Oxford Dictionary for Writers and Editors , you will note the extraordinary number of words with alternative spellings. It can also be a very useful guide to preferred spellings, use of italicisation and foreign phrases.
• Take care when quoting from other sources. Ensure you note whether the italic emphasis is in the original and take careful notes when you are collecting quotes for your thesis. Transcribe them accurately to save work later and keep original spellings (even if they differ from your chosen style) to ensure fidelity to your source.
• Think about plagiarism. If you are quoting from works, quote from them accurately and paraphrase where necessary for your argument. This is where careful note-taking and use of references is invaluable and will help you to avoid even inadvertently plagiarising another work.
• Remember that your thesis is your chance to present your work in the best possible light. Consider your opening paragraphs, entice your reader with your writing and above all be clear about your hypothesis and your conclusion. Append material where it adds value but not where it merely bulks out your work. Consider your reader at all times. This is your chance to showcase your work.

If you stick to these simple rules, your writing will be clear and jargon-free. Above all, take to heart Orwell’s advice: “Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word, or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.”

In the academic world, having a PhD after your name means you have been awarded a prestigious three-year doctoral degree from a university or college. A Ph.D. is a Doctor of Philosophy degree and can be earned in a variety of subjects.

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The Awesome Etiquette podcast is a weekly Q&A show where hosts, (cousins, and co-presidents of the Emily Post Institute,) Lizzie Post and Dan Post Senning answer audience questions, tackle etiquette topics in detail and salute good etiquette witnessed by the Awesome Etiquette audience.

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Professional Title Etiquette: When to Use Your Dr. Title

Socially as well as professionally, medical doctors, dentists, and other professionals are addressed by, and introduced with, their titles. People who have earned a Ph.D. or any other academic, nonmedical doctoral degree have the choice of whether to use "Dr." both professionally and socially.  If, when meeting people with doctorates, you're unsure how to address them, "Dr." is always correct.  If they'd rather the title be dropped, they will let you know.

It's more common for women to use the title "Doctor" socially as well as professionally than in the past. When a married woman uses the title "Dr." (either medical or academic) socially, addressing social correspondence to the couple is a little trickier. If her husband is not a doctor, address letters to Dr. Sonia and Mr. Robert Harris. Her name comes first because her professional title "outranks" his social title. If her husband is also a doctor, the address is either The Drs. (Doctors) Harris or Drs. Sonia and Robert Harris (the order of the names doesn't matter).

The Reverend

In introductions and correspondence, many Protestant clergy are referred to as "The Reverend." While business correspondence is addressed to The Reverend James Norris, (D.D., if held), social correspondence is slightly different: The Reverend (Mr./Dr.) and Mrs. James Norris. In conversation, a clergyman or clergywoman is addressed as Dr./Mr./Mrs./Ms./Pastor/Rector/Reverend Norris.

Addressing a husband or wife who are both "Reverends" follows the same format as a husband and wife who are both doctors: The Reverends Norris or The Reverend Mrs./Ms. Patricia Norris and the Reverend Mr. James Norris. If either of the couple also has a doctorate degree, that person's name would go first: The Reverend Dr. James Norris and The Reverend Mrs./Ms. Patricia Norris.

Today "Esquire" is largely confined to business correspondence between attorneys and justices of the peace. An alternative is to write:

Mr. David Bowman

Attorney at Law

using two lines, no indent, and including the titles Mr. or Ms.

When "Esq." or "Esquire" is used, the name is never preceded by Mr., Ms., Mrs., or other titles such as Dr., and is written David Bowman, Esq. "Esquire" isn't used in introductions: "I'd like to introduce attorney David Bowman/Mr. David Bowman/David Bowman." It also isn't used for social correspondence, as when writing to a lawyer and his or her spouse or addressing a social invitation. Mr. and Mrs. David Bowman is the correct form.

Professional Designations

Professional designations such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CLU (Certified Life Underwriter) are only used on business cards or business correspondence. They follow a person's name, and Mr. or Ms. isn't used: Martha Dawes, CPA; Phillip Olner, CLU. If a person has more than one designation, they're listed in the order received: Phillip Olner, CLU, CFP. Socially, use Mr., Ms., or Mrs. without the professional designation: Ms. Martha Dawes.

Other Titles

Every day we run into people who have an official title. The police officer at the desk is Sergeant Flynn; the head of the fire department is Chief Elmore; the club chef is Chef Rossi; the pilot on your plane is Captain Howe; and so forth. When on the job, such people are always addressed by their titles, just as they are when the matter at hand is related to their work. Socially, many don't use their titles, though they may. Sometimes a title sticks: A local judge, for example, who's been called by his title for a number of years, is usually addressed as "Judge" even after his retirement.

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PhD Candidate Business Cards: Making a Lasting Impression in the Academic World

Are you a PhD candidate looking to make a lasting impression in the academic world? Look no further than business cards. Business cards may seem like a relic from the past in today’s digital age, but they still hold a certain charm and effectiveness when it comes to networking and professional interactions. In this article, we will explore why PhD candidate business cards are important, what information they should contain, and tips for designing impressive business cards that leave a lasting impression on colleagues and potential employers.

Why Are PhD Candidate Business Cards Important?

As a PhD candidate, business cards can serve as a valuable tool in your professional arsenal. They allow you to easily exchange contact information with fellow researchers, professors, and potential collaborators at academic conferences, workshops, and other networking events. While you may already have an online presence and a professional email signature, business cards offer a tangible and personal touch that can make you more memorable in the minds of others.

Building Your Personal Brand

Your business card is a tangible representation of your personal brand as a PhD candidate. By designing a unique and visually appealing card, you can showcase your professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail. This is especially important when you’re competing in a crowded academic environment.

Facilitating Networking Opportunities

Attending conferences and other academic events provides an opportunity to meet and connect with influential individuals in your field. By having your business card readily available, you can easily share your contact information, ensuring that others can reach out to you later for collaboration, research opportunities, or job prospects. It’s all about making those valuable connections that can shape your future career.

Leaving a Lasting Impression

In the fast-paced world of academia, it’s easy to forget someone’s name or research interests amidst a sea of faces and conversations. A well-designed business card with concise information can help others remember you long after the event has ended. Additionally, the act of exchanging a physical business card shows a level of professionalism and sincerity, leaving a positive impression on your recipients.

What Information Should Your PhD Candidate Business Card Contain?

While the design of your business card should be visually appealing and reflective of your personal brand, it’s crucial to include relevant and concise information to make it functional. Here are some essential elements to consider:

1. Your Name and Degree

Make sure your full name is prominently displayed on the card. As a PhD candidate, it’s also important to indicate your degree in progress. You can include “PhD Candidate” or “Doctoral Candidate” below your name. This helps establish your credibility and expertise, allowing others to recognize your academic standing right away.

2. Contact Information

Include your professional email address and phone number on the card. Ensure that the email address you provide is associated with your academic institution or a reputable platform like Gmail. Avoid using personal email addresses or unprofessional handles, as they can create a negative impression. Including your LinkedIn profile link can also be beneficial if you maintain an active profile.

3. Research Focus or Field of Study

Including a brief summary of your research focus or field of study can help others quickly understand your academic interests and expertise. Keep this section concise and to the point, emphasizing keywords and phrases that capture the essence of your work.

4. Personal Website or Portfolio (Optional)

If you have a personal website or an online portfolio showcasing your research, publications, and projects, consider including the URL on your business card. This allows interested individuals to delve deeper into your work and provides an additional avenue for making connections.

Designing Impressive PhD Candidate Business Cards

Now that you understand the importance of PhD candidate business cards and what information to include, let’s explore some tips for designing impressive cards that make a lasting impression:

1. Keep it Simple and Professional

Avoid cluttering your business card with excessive design elements or overwhelming information. Stick to a clean and professional design that reflects your academic field.

2. Choose a Legible Font

Ensure that the font you choose is easily legible. A combination of a sans-serif font for your name and a serif font for other text can create a pleasing contrast. Experiment with font sizes to make important information stand out without overwhelming the card.

3. Use High-Quality Printing and Materials

Invest in high-quality printing and materials to ensure your cards look and feel professional. Matte or glossy finishes, thick paper stock, and rounded corners can add a touch of sophistication to your business cards.

4. Incorporate Branding Elements

Consider incorporating elements from your academic institution, such as its logo or color scheme, to tie your business card to your current academic affiliations. This can help establish credibility and recognition within your field.

5. Double-Check for Accuracy

Before printing a large batch of business cards, meticulously proofread and double-check all the information. A typo or incorrect contact information can be embarrassing and undermine your professionalism.

6. Get Feedback

Show your design to trusted colleagues or mentors and ask for their feedback. Their insights can help you refine your design and ensure it makes the desired impact.

In Conclusion

As a PhD candidate, business cards are a valuable tool to establish your personal brand, facilitate networking opportunities, and leave a lasting impression on others. By including essential information and designing your cards with professionalism and creativity, you can elevate your presence in the academic world. So, don’t underestimate the power of a well-designed business card; it might just open doors to exciting research collaborations, job opportunities, and lifelong connections in your field as a PhD candidate.

Ava Taylor’s passion for branding and marketing shines through in her dynamic writing. She brings a unique perspective with her background in event planning, infusing creativity into her content. When she’s not writing, Ava enjoys organizing community events and gatherings.

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Is it correct for a PhD holder to sign as "Dr. J. Doe, PhD"?

I have seen some of the PhD holders sign as "Dr. [First Name] [Surname], PhD".

Is it academically correct to write "Dr. Frank Amoani Arthur, PhD"?

• 28 Are you in Germany? If not you can do whatever you want. –  Cape Code Commented Oct 8, 2016 at 5:42
• 3 In addition, "Dr. X Y, PhD" would be correct if the person actually holds two different doctoral degrees: a Dr. and a PhD. –  lighthouse keeper Commented Oct 8, 2016 at 6:51
• 4 I would like to add that in some fields and (sub)cultures, adding the ", PhD" bit after your name may seem unnecessarily pretentious. –  Gimelist Commented Oct 8, 2016 at 8:01
• 1 It certainly depends on the usage context. In a job talk title slide, naming the degree seems justified, while in a conference talk or in a twitter profile, it would look pretentious. –  lighthouse keeper Commented Oct 8, 2016 at 8:09
• 1 @CapeCode Not just Germany. In The Netherlands it is a criminal offense to write your name like this. The law explicitly provides that you have to choose between either writing "dr." or writing "PhD". –  Tom van der Zanden Commented Jun 22, 2021 at 7:54

7 Answers 7

There are two important points to note about name markers that refer to academic titles:

• You can have more than one of these markers in your name: Kay Doe, PhD, MD indicates a person who is both a doctor of philosophy and a doctor of medicine.
• The marker Dr. can very often be used as a variant of the post-positioned markers. If both of them are equivalent markers in your country, you can choose either marker to refer to your academic title.

These two observations make the suggested name form Dr. Kay Doe, PhD rather ambiguous.

Does it refer to a person with two doctor titles because there are two markers? Or do both markers refer to just one doctor title? But if so, why is that doctor referred to twice in one name? This may even lead to suspicion: Does the name bearer use two markers which refer to the same title with the intention to sound more impressive than their academic distinction actually warrants?

This ambiguity is avoided if you use only one title marker per title.

• 1 +1 for not asserting that something is "correct" or "incorrect" and instead focusing on what is the most effective for communication. –  Thomas Steinke Commented Jun 21, 2021 at 22:43
• In Germany, we tend to list multiple doctor titles in front of the name, e.g. Dr. phil. D. med. Dr. h.c. Max Mustermann would declare a doctor of philosophy, a medical doctor and an honorary doctor all at once. But notably, these titles must match the precise expression of a title that has been awarded. So Dr. phil. X cannot be used instead of X, PhD , except if the awarding university explicitly declared it that way. Here you can find a list of examples (need to scroll down to a table). –  xamid Commented Mar 27, 2023 at 5:59

In the US, at least the title doctor doesn't imply a medical doctor, though it includes that. My students would usually refer to me as Dr. Buffy. Someone not knowing that I hold a doctorate might call me Mr. Buffy, but Dr. Buffy is more specific.

If I wish to list my degrees after my name they aren't being used a title like Dr. or Ms.

So, being pedantic: Dr. Buffy, BA, MA, PhD. is just fine. In Germany, and places with a related academic culture, degrees are used more as titles so it is a bit different: Herr Doctor Professor Buffy.

Medical doctors (again in the US) insist on being called Doctor and have no difficulty with Dr. Foobar, MD. It would be extremely uncommon for them to be listed any other way.

• 5 "Herr Professor Doctor", actually. –  Oleg Lobachev Commented Aug 1, 2018 at 15:07
• 1 Yes, Herr Student @OlegLobachev. Kidding of course. Thanks. In the US we would garble it, of course. As I did. I listed them in the order I did because of the order I earned them. I was Doktor before I was professor. –  Buffy Commented Aug 1, 2018 at 15:12
• 2 There is a story of a quite famous mathematician (a professor) who was living with one of his students in a "romantic" relationship. He once is said to have informed her that she didn't need to refer to him with all of his titles as long as they were in private. Apocryphal? You judge. –  Buffy Commented Aug 1, 2018 at 15:15
• 1 There's a reason why physicians are Dr. Foo, M.D. The Dr. part is for public appearances, so patients perceive that they're authoritative. The M.D. part is required by regulation in some places like hospitals and medical schools, as to disambiguate Ph.D., D.O., D.D.S./D.M.D., O.D., D.V.M. etc. which all have different rights/requirements when interacting with patients. My major US institution sticks both (Dr. Foo Bar, PhD) on everybody's e-mails and ID cards and computer accounts, even for non-medical people. –  user71659 Commented Aug 2, 2018 at 7:02

I'm sure this must have been dealt with in previous questions, but the short answer is:

This is correct if you are both a medical doctor and an academic doctor. But just being an academic allows you to write Dr. (name) XOR (name) PhD.

• 12 This is not universally true. –  Cape Code Commented Oct 8, 2016 at 7:23

If you have Dr. NAME only it might cause some confusion. I was once caught in a situation where I was asked to be on standby for assistance during a medical emergency because my boarding pass identified me as Dr. MYNAME. I had to explain that the Dr was for a PhD and not for medical practises. In my opinion the academic the title should be Dr. LASTNAME or Dr. LASTNAME M.D. for a medical practitioner Dr, LASTNAME PhD for an academic qualification Dr. LASTNAME HC for an honorary doctorate ( honororium causa )

As you can see from some of the answers here, there is substantial variation in use of academic titles and suffixes for degrees. It is certainly okay to use the suffix PhD if you have a PhD, and it would be hard to mount an argument that it is "incorrect" to use a suffix for a degree you actually have. There is wide variation in what is common practice in academia, but what is most important is to consider the following practical issues:

IMPORTANT --- avoid confusion with medical doctors: In most places, in an academic context the title "Dr" is fine for someone with a PhD (though in some countries they are distinct). However, in contexts outside academia it can cause confusion. In particular, for a person with a PhD who is not a medical doctor, it is often desirable to avoid using the title "Dr" in contexts where it might cause people to think that you are the appropriate contact person in a medical emergency ---e.g., " Dr O'Neill, this man is having a heart attack - do something! " So, for example, when I am checking into a plane, or in similar circumstances, I try to ensure that I am booked in as "Mr" not "Dr", notwithstanding that the latter title would apply in an academic context.

Academics rarely use the degree suffix: Because the PhD is so common among academics, we would rarely use this suffix outside of a CV. It is common for academics to use titles (e.g., Dr, Assoc Prof, Prof, etc.) in descriptions such as a signature block, staff page, etc. It is uncommon (but not incorrect) to additionally add the suffix "PhD". The main reason most academics leave this part off is because the degree is common among academics.

Dual use might clarify or it might confuse, depending on who is reading it: If you use both a title and a suffix for the same degree, that can potentially help to understand the source of the title, or it can look awkward or cause confusion. This really depends on the audience. In most cases, if you use the title "Dr" and the suffix "PhD" then people will assume that the title comes from the degree specified in the suffix, which is accurate here. It is perhaps a bit unusual to use both, but it is not unheard of.

I think in the US anyway, you can sign your name however you wish. In my case, I am a DVM and I have a Masters degree. I want my business cards to say Dr. MYNAME, DVM, MS. I have seen multiple DVMs that write their name the same way. I think it's good to know what kind of Dr. I am, and this helps others to know it also. Even if I didn't have the Masters degree, I would likely still want my business card to say Dr. MYNAME, DVM.

• 1 What is a DVM ? –  astronat supports the strike Commented Jun 21, 2021 at 14:10
• 2 @astronat Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. –  Bryan Krause ♦ Commented Jun 21, 2021 at 14:13

Dr Jones if he has a medical degree. Mark Jones, Ph.D. or Dr. Jones, if he has a Ph.D. Never Dr. Jones, Ph. D.

• 4 What if a PhD who is also a medical doctor? I think "Never" is too strong a word. –  Nobody Commented Aug 1, 2018 at 6:34
• 5 @scaaahu Mark Jones, MD, PhD. –  Nicole Hamilton Commented Aug 1, 2018 at 9:38
• 1 @NicoleHamilton That's a good one. –  Nobody Commented Aug 1, 2018 at 9:45
• My major US university puts "Dr. Jones PhD" on everybody's ID cards, e-mails, computer accounts, directory, etc. It's because the medical school and hospital have all kinds of "Dr." running around and they need to make it easy to identify what responsibilities you have. –  user71659 Commented Aug 2, 2018 at 7:07

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From admission to dissertation. Tips on making the PhD journey happy, productive and successful

How To Write PhD? Is it ph d or phd

How do you write phd correctly after a name is it ph d or phd, here are the steps to write phd correctly:.

• Firstly, “P” must be in a capital case.
• Secondly, “h” is in small case with no space after “P”
• Thirdly, use period/full-stop after “h”
• Fourthly, Write “D” in capital case.
• Fifthly, keep Period after “D”
• Finally, the correct way to write is Ph.D .
• Or, It can be also written as PhD in a sentence.
• As per APA style, write Ph. D
• As per Chicago style, write PhD
• As per MLA style, write it as Ph. D.

For example this is how to write PhD title after your name: Dr.John Mathew, Ph.D. You can write PhD after name on your business cards, resumes, CV’s or identity cards or on nameplates etc. Some have confusion with the use of comma and full stops while writing PhD title after name. Here is my indepth review how to write out properly PhD.

Writing a PhD title after name

Use capital “p” and “d” in the word ph.d..

You must write ‘P’ as capital and ‘D’ as capital letters. Though there is no strict rule on how to use capital and small letters, many of them do this way. Both letters which I have just mentioned must be written in Capital because those letters are the heart of the abbreviationPh.D. There is no other way of writing. Even if you search the whole world and ask many people and read many books, this is how PhD title is written.  Sometimes there are possibilities that both letters are written in small letters by mistake. You need to correct instantly if such is the case. Otherwise, it looks awkward when someone looks at it or reads it.  Usually, mistaken words are clearly observed than that of rightly written ones.

Use small letter ‘h’ in the word Ph.D.

The letter ‘h’ is what written small letter in this 3 letter word is.  We write it in a small letter after name because this letter ‘h’ is in the middle of the word Ph.D.  Here also don’t write mistake by using capital letters. This is the reason why many people write a PhD title after the name wrongly. They are confused about where to use capital letters and were not to use small letters. I suggest you practice all the letters in one or other way.

Why do we write a PhD title after the name?

We write a PhD title after the name to know that one has completed his doctoral studies and it is a sign of knowledge and status.  We write a Ph.D. even for other purposes. For example, if someone is working in a university, it is mandatory that his qualification must be known to all the students and as well as the staff. This is why we write the Ph.D. title after the name. Not only in the university but also to the competent authorities who come for an inspection to the university must know the status of the faculty profiles.  So the title Ph.D. is written after every faculty name as a title.

Should we use bold letters

I say a big no. You cannot write bold and fashioned way while writing PhD title after your name. As you write you must make it look similar along with the name without any difference. There is no way that you must write the Ph.D. title in bold fonts. This way, it looks very odd for those who look. Instead of reading your name, they will read Ph.D. firstly. So there is a chance of not remembering your name. So never use bold fonts while writing PhD title after your name.

Should we use Italic Letters

Again it is a big no. Do be too creative while writing a Ph.D. after your name. The use of italics is a big mistake. Do not use such writing in italics. Every time you use italic, again it looks very different from the original name adjacent to it.

Is Ph.D. a title after your name?

Do you think it is a PhD title or just a status?  It is both status and title.  Though in my personal opinion it is not a title, many call it as a title. But if you ask me I would tell it is a status word that is symbolically represented a matter of qualification. This is only my personal opinion about the title of Ph.D. So if at all you have some doubts about how this title arose as a part of history, you must read a vast number of history books about the Ph.D. title. It all requires for you to understand that a Ph.D. is not a title finally and just a resemblance of qualification.

Is it good to put PhD after title in your identity cards?

No, you must not use the title Ph.D. after your name in any type of identity card. These cards are existing irrespective of your qualification. This is meant to identify you as you are. There is no necessity what you have achieved. There is no need for knowing your qualifications. So in any type of identity card which is issued by the government like passport and voter card etc, you cannot use such title after your name. But there is one exception that the identity card at university or college or at job area must be given with Ph.D. title. If you ever need expert help with writing your Doctoral level papers, go to WriteMyPaperHub and send your request to  write my PhD thesis for me .

Should we use the subject name when using a Ph.D. with the name?

This thought is quite awkward. But I must still mention this. There are some who use the subject name after the Ph.D. title along with the name. Like for example Dr. Luke, Ph.D. in Linguistics. Using this way is quite reasonable if there are some important debates or international meetups. Otherwise, I don’t suggest such type of writing after your name.

What happens if you don’t use a Ph.D. after your name?

If you do not use the Ph.D. title after your name, people around you won’t know that you are a doctoral research fellow. So it is very important to let them know it. You can only use this if at all there are some students around you or any known people. If there are unknown people around you, then there is no way that it is mandatory to use a Ph.D. after your name. Anyhow, I say that there is no danger of not using Ph.D. after your name.

Should comma be addded before or after PhD

Yes, a comma is a mandatory thing to be added after Ph.D. This is a rule. Otherwise, it is mixed combined with your original name. It will become part of your name. So comma is good after your name. I have already given the example above on how to put a comma after your name. But let me give here one more example as a matter of understanding.  Dr.Mohima, Ph.D. If you see the name, for example, there is a comma used after the name to separate Ph.D. from it. So try to put a comma. But never use another punctuation mark as such full stop or colon after your name. I have seen people using other punctuation marks like semicolon after name and then they write the title Ph.D. Some don’t use at all. All such things are mistakes. Use the only comma after your name always.

Can we write Dr instead of Ph.D. after the name?

Writing a doctor instead of a Ph.D. means a different thing. So you cannot use such way. As this is not the right format. ‘Dr’ is used at the beginning of the name as another title. But after the name, it must be a Ph.D. and not ‘Dr’

Should we write a Ph.D. at all after one’s name that is too long?

Sometimes it so happens that your name is too long to write Ph.D. after it. During this trouble, you must cut out some part of the name and type PhD as a title after your name. There is no other way to do it.  Usually, longs name are common in some countries like Germany and India. But in the USA we have shorter names. Whatever may be the length, you must try to use the most used name and eliminate the rest of the name. This way you can use the title Ph.D. comfortable after your name. Always try to use the same name. Don’t change the name or cut your name in different ways on different days. These will again a problem to your recognition.

Should we write phd or ph d on business card, welcome banners during functions?

On welcome banners and business cards, it is very important to mention the title Ph.D. This will be more serious if you do not use the Ph.D. title after the name. There are many people watching that public banner. If you do not write the title after the name, you are disrespecting the guest totally. So be aware of using the title ofPh.D. whenever you have public functions or welcome banners or during some important meetings.  This is a sign that others should treat the guest better than the other out there.

Should the font size of Ph.D. be the same as someone’s name?

The name and the title Ph.D. must be in the same size. There must not be unusual differences. Font sizes matter a lot. Don’t use wrong font size or awkward fonts while using your title Ph.D. after your name. The best font could be like Ariel, Lato, Times New Roman, etc. These fonts will look better as a Ph.D. title after your name. Initially, there is some confusion about using the right font. But once you learn the size usage, you are comfortable using them rightly. Even when you write manually, you can easily write with similar size throughout. This requires a good amount of practice to write the Ph.D. title after your name with good font limitations.

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Syam Prasad Reddy T

Hello, My name is Syam, Asst. Professor of English and Mentor for Ph.D. students worldwide. I have worked years to give you these amazing tips to complete your Ph.D. successfully. Having put a lot of efforts means to make your Ph.D. journey easier. Thank you for visiting my Ph.D. blog.

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Should you put PhD candidate/student on your business cards?

When is it appropriate to put your title on a business card? Or is it always appropriate. Examples below: John Doe, PhD candidate John Doe, PhD in progress John Doe, PhD student John Doe, Postgraduate Researcher John Doe When your a PhD student/candidate what should you place, if anything, behind your name on your business cards? Or does it depend on your profession?

I've seen most of these on various student business cards, sometimes from the same university! I was unsure what to put on mine so I asked my dept's research admin. He said that there wasn't an official line, so I went with Practice-based PhD Student. Hope this helps!

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Should I write "PhD" or "Ph.D."?

Question pretty self-explanatory. Should the abbreviation of the Latin term philosophiae doctor be written as PhD (no periods) or Ph.D. (with periods)?

• abbreviations

• 1 You have a couple of correct answers below. Personally I avoid periods in abbreviations, so I would use PhD, just as I would say Washington DC using the postal code abbreviation DC rather than the historical abbreviation D.C. (District of Columbia). –  Wayne Commented May 17, 2011 at 12:38

6 Answers 6

Actually both are correct. I could easily find both on my NOAD, and there are plenty of pages on the net where you find it written as "PhD".

The OALD gives an interesting distinction, stating that Ph.D. is especially North American English.

Now, being a non-native speaker, I can only rely on official sources to state who uses what , but there's no doubt that both variants are used.

Lastly, I think there's really no point in distinguishing them as " Philosophiae Doctor " or " Doctor of Philosophy " because it's the same exact expression, although considering the abbreviation, the former is the correct and original long version, the latter is just the English translation.

• 1 Collins English Dictionary shows a separate abbreviation if you want to specify the degree in English: "DPhil". (Also at dictionary.reference.com/browse/phd , just further down the page.) –  MT_Head Commented May 17, 2011 at 9:52
• @MT_Head: Thanks for commenting. With "if you want to specify the degree in English" you mean "being unambiguous"? –  Alenanno Commented May 17, 2011 at 9:54
• Indeed. To give an anecdotal example: in the company I used to work for, which was British, people didn't tend to use periods for abbreviations of degrees, e.g. MSc , PhD . I now work for an American company, where the convention is to use them, hence Ph.D. –  Steve Melnikoff Commented May 17, 2011 at 9:55
• I see, I was thinking of that before honestly, since PhD (or PHD) can be other things too... Thanks for pointing it out! –  Alenanno Commented May 17, 2011 at 10:04
• 6 @MT_Head DPhil is also what a PhD is called at Oxford. If you use DPhil then a BE speaker would assume you specifically mean Oxford. –  mgb Commented May 17, 2011 at 15:07

PhD and Ph.D. are both correct. Canadians tend to omit the periods and those from the U.S. tend to keep them. A reference grammar explains it like this:

2  abbreviations and acronyms 1  punctuation We usually write abbreviations without full stops in modern British English. Full stops (AmE ‘periods’) are normal in American English.   Mr (AmE Mr. ) = Mister (not usually written in full)   kg (AmE kg. ) = kilogram  […]

Quote source: Swan, Michael. Practical English Usage (Third Edition). page 2.

I tend to use both 'PhD' and 'Ph.D'. A DPhil is awarded at both Oxford Uni and Sussex Uni in England. All others award PhDs to my knowledge.

It bugs me when people use 'Dr' before their name and then also state the award following it. I feel it should be one or the other.

• Agree with Dr being used with PhD part. –  Failed Scientist Commented Jul 28, 2016 at 10:19
• 4 "Oh, I'm going to get some cash out of this ATM machine." –  hBy2Py Commented Mar 31, 2017 at 17:00
• 1 @hBy2Py : Ha! That's an example of the ironically named RAS syndrome (Redundant Acronym Syndrome syndrome). According to Wikipedia the term was coined in 2001 in a light-hearted column in New Scientist, though I haven't a reference for the original article. On the original question, during my lifetime (started in the 1950s) in the UK there has been a slow but steady move to reduce the use of punctuation and capitalisation in print. This has been driven in part by the newspaper industry, though I can't give any source other than the say-so of journalist friends. –  Duckspindle Commented Sep 3, 2022 at 12:17

As many noted, both are accepted, so it is a matter of convention and taste.

The important is to be consistent with the other abbreviations you use throughout your text. Compare:

• I got a Ph.D. in A.I. at U.C.L.A in the U.S.
• I got a PhD in AI at UCLA in the US.

My personal preference goes for omitting periods, given that this is an abbreviation, following the Guardian style guide :

Do not use full points in abbreviations, or spaces between initials, including those in proper names

I remember discussing this with a trained secretary a long time ago. We eventually decided that the use of camel case (starting each abbreviated word in upper case) removes the need for the periods when abbreviating titles. However, when an abbreviation is relatively new or used in an unusual context, the periods help to avoid ambiguity.

For my own use, the overriding consideration is 'house style'. It is more important for a document to be internally consistent, to avoid confusion.

• Bobble's "house style" consideration typically applies not just to a single document but also, as the name implies, to all documents emanating from the same "house". For example, my academic discipline (linguistics) traditionally employs the no-periods convention for all titles (not only PhD, MA, and BA but also Mr, Dr, and Prof), while the style enforcer at my academic institution (an American university) insists that I sprinkle periods around (for a total of 9 in my 6 examples). –  H Stephen Straight Commented Feb 12, 2013 at 22:32

The most common I have seen are:

I have rarely come across a Ph.D. (with two periods).

• 28 Ugh. Ph.D looks like the inconsistent worst of all worlds. –  user1579 Commented May 17, 2011 at 16:57

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged abbreviations latin periods or ask your own question .

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PhD on business cards

• Thread starter Agiii
• Start date Sep 6, 2015

Senior Member

• Sep 6, 2015

I've got a PhD in a non-medical field of study. I'm currently designing my business cards and asking myself whether it's normal to put my PhD on them and if yes, in what form. Mary Smith PhD Mary Smith, PhD Mary Smith Ph.D. Mary Smith, Ph.D. ? Or how should I do it? I got my PhD in continental Europe and the original title is "Dr. (Mary Smith)", I'm not sure if that's used in the US/ UK/ Australia, etc.  

Hi, I have seen this: Mary Smith, PhD  

You're likely to "see" just about anything in such style issues. The style used by American newspapers (when they follow the stylebook) is Mary Smith, Ph.D. (No. 4 above) Likewise, American newspapers do not use the honorary title "Dr." for non-medical degrees and might not use it at all when not relevant. Sen. Rand Paul, for example, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, is an ophthalmologist, but since that's irrelevant to his political aspirations, news stories generally do not use the medical honorific.  

Song Sprite

Ok, thank you so much!  

• Sep 18, 2015

Sorry, I have to start the subject again. I see "Dr John Smith" a lot on linkedin and I'm asking myself whether this version is not preferred to "John Smith, Ph.D.".  

Moderato con anima (English Only)

The British style is not to use the full stops: Mary Smith, PhD - and if you include PhD , Dr is surely redundant. Dr Mary Smith suggests that you are a medical person, I think; or at best it is ambiguous.  

• Sep 22, 2015

natkretep said: The British style is not to use the full stops: Mary Smith, PhD - and if you include PhD , Dr is surely redundant. Dr Mary Smith suggests that you are a medical person, I think; or at best it is ambiguous. Click to expand...

Those aren't business cards. That page is put together by someone else who chooses to use a title with the names.  

But does it mean I should use "Dr" (or Dr.) on linkedin and on my website? I supposed there's no difference between business cards and those other situations where you present yourself.  

natkretep said: and if you include PhD , Dr is surely redundant. Click to expand...

I'm thinking of non-medical settings and representations by self, rather than representations by others. I can't comment about medical settings. In academic settings, to include both the title and the degree in self-representations smacks of someone 'trying too hard' and not being subtle about it. It's a little like how when you introduce yourself, you don't include your title; you wait for others to accord you that honour, as it were.  

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Ph.D. or PhD on business card

• Thread starter oscarthewild
• Start date Feb 5, 2007
• Tags business business card business cards ph.d. phd
• Culture and Lifestyle

oscarthewild

Distinguished member.

• Feb 5, 2007

Hello, I have seen examples of each Ph.D. http://radio.weblogs.com/0110772/BusinessCardEng.jpg http://www.psych.ufl.edu/~white/kdw_..._card_2005.gif and also examples of PhD http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/audio...rd-Herring.gif http://research.microsoft.com/~awils...20card%202.jpg Any comments which is correct or more correct? Thanks -  

Stylish Dinosaur

Ph.D. according to Chicago Manual of Style.  

Thank you  

Opposite Santa

They are all fine. However, imhe, no academic puts "Ph.D" on their card. It's assumed that you have one, especially if "Professor" is anywhere on the card. A Ph.D. is sort of like having a ticket for the show. No one pins it to their chest. Same goes for research labs like JPL, NASA/Ames, etc... The only reason that you would put Ph.D. is if you work in the bureaucracy or in the corporate world, where not everyone has a Ph.D. The only letters I generally see on academic and researchers cards are things like fellowships in the Academy of Sciences or a similar honor.  

Senior Member

I dunno, I have to disagree with that. I've been in academia (psych) for the better part of my life and whose with doc degrees have Psy.D. or Ph.D. on their card. It is assumed that if one is called a "psychologist" then they have a doctorate as MS level practitioners default to "therapist". Perhaps this is different in other fields such as research as the above poster mentioned IMHO if you get through a doctoral program you deserve to put it on there MrR  

Originally Posted by MrRogers Click to expand...

Originally Posted by drizzt3117 Click to expand...

Originally Posted by imageWIS Click to expand...

What do the German academics put on their cards?  

Ph.D. looks better, IMO.  

matadorpoeta

not all professors have a ph.d. it is a common complaint at many colleges that undergrad classes, especially lower division ones, are being taught by professors with only a master's degree.  

Originally Posted by matadorpoeta Click to expand...

I can't wait to put Ph.D. all over everything I own. All of my shirts will be monogrammed at the cuff with PHD.  

Originally Posted by LabelKing Click to expand...

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