Bridging the Gap: The Evolution and Future of Practice-Based Doctorates

Josse Roussel, PhD, HDR Mitesh Jain upGrad International Binal Kataria Chandra Alan O'Neill Dr. Paul Davis Mahzad Sareer Derya Yalimcan Brian Fitzgerald upGrad upGrad Institute upGrad KnowledgeHut North Americas ESGCI école Edgewood College

Introduction

Higher education, particularly within doctoral programmes, needs to evolve to meet the changing demands of society and industry. As our world grows more complex and interconnected, there is an increasing need for advanced education that prioritises practical, applicable knowledge rather than purely theoretical insights. The traditional PhD, long regarded as the pinnacle of academic achievement, has typically centred on deep, theoretical research with limited direct relevance to industry. However, the rise of practice-based doctorates, such as the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and the Doctor of Education (EdD), highlights the pressing need for a different approach. These programmes are designed to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, ensuring that the knowledge generated within academia can be effectively utilised in real-world settings.

The distinction between practice-based and theory-based doctorates underlines the necessity for rethinking the goals of doctoral education. Practice-based doctorates focus on developing practical skills and applying research directly to industry challenges, preparing graduates to make immediate, meaningful contributions in their fields. This stands in contrast to the traditional PhD, which often emphasises theoretical contributions that may not have immediate applicability beyond academic circles. The practical orientation of these doctorates is particularly valuable in disciplines such as business, education, and healthcare, where the ability to implement research findings can lead to significant improvements in practice and outcomes.

However, despite the evident need, the academic community has been slow to fully embrace and develop practice-based doctorates. Many universities continue to rely heavily on the traditional PhD model, applying its theory-focused approach to practice-based programmes. This often results in DBA and EdD programmes that are more akin to a condensed version of a PhD rather than truly practice-oriented doctorates. There remains a significant gap between what is needed by industry and what is being offered by academia, leading to a growing call for change.

Challenges and Critiques of the Current Doctoral System

One major issue is the current state of the peer review process and the broader academic publishing culture. The "publish or perish" mindset that dominates academia has created an environment where quantity often trumps quality, with researchers under constant pressure to publish, sometimes at the expense of innovation and relevance. This culture has also led to a peer review process that can be insular, with peers reluctant to challenge each other’s work, which in turn can result in lower-quality publications. Furthermore, the high cost and limited accessibility of academic journals have turned knowledge creation into an industry that is far too focused on academia itself, rather than on serving broader societal needs. There is a clear need for more industry-focused journals that prioritise the practical application of research and the generation of real-world solutions.

The academic publication process has become a self-perpetuating cycle where researchers are often more concerned with producing papers that will be accepted by prestigious journals rather than conducting research that directly benefits society or industry. The costs associated with accessing these journals have further isolated academic research from those who could most benefit from it, particularly practitioners and professionals in various industries. This situation underscores the importance of developing alternative models of knowledge dissemination, such as industry-focused publications that adhere to academic standards but are more accessible and relevant to real-world applications.

In addition to reforming the publication process, it is essential that we recognise and value industry experience within doctoral programmes. Too often, the achievements of professionals with substantial industry experience are overlooked in favour of academic credentials. Doctoral programmes should be structured in a way that integrates and leverages this experience, allowing professionals to apply their knowledge in a manner that directly benefits their industries. Public and branded universities need to acknowledge the legitimacy of practice-based doctorates and create career pathways that are less dependent on traditional academic publishing and more focused on collaboration with industry and impactful action. Publications could take the form of industry reports, which, while adhering to rigorous academic standards, also demonstrate value and relevance within the industry.

Recognising industry experience as a valuable component of doctoral education is not just about acknowledging prior achievements; it’s about integrating that experience into the learning process. By doing so, doctoral programmes can be more closely aligned with the actual needs of industries, ensuring that graduates are equipped to address the challenges they will face in their careers. This approach would also encourage more professionals to pursue doctoral education, knowing that their industry experience will be valued and that their research will have practical applications.

The delivery of doctoral education also needs to be more flexible to accommodate the needs of working professionals. Online and hybrid programmes, offered by private institutions such as UpGrad Networks in collaboration with universities like ESGCI, Golden Gate, and Edgewood, are already advancing in this area by providing valuable options for students. These programmes provide the flexibility and accessibility that many professionals require, allowing them to balance their studies with their careers. Public universities must follow suit, recognising the benefits of these delivery models and incorporating them into their own offerings to reach a broader audience.

The flexibility offered by online and hybrid programmes is particularly important in today’s fast-paced, globalised world. Many professionals simply do not have the time to commit to a traditional, full-time doctoral programme. By offering more flexible delivery options, universities can make doctoral education accessible to a wider range of students, including those who are already established in their careers and looking to advance further. This shift towards more flexible models of delivery also reflects broader trends in education, where lifelong learning and continuous professional development are becoming increasingly important.

Another area ripe for reform is the duration of doctoral programmes. The traditional timeframe of several years is increasingly seen as impractical, especially for professionals who already possess substantial industry experience. There is a strong argument for shorter, more intensive doctoral programmes that range from 1.5 to 3 years, acknowledging and building upon the knowledge and skills that students have already acquired in their professional lives. Furthermore, consideration should be given to offering pathways for those with significant industry experience but without formal degrees or master’s qualifications. These individuals, who are already making significant contributions in their fields, should have the opportunity to pursue practice-based doctorates and gain recognition for their work and impact.

Shortening the duration of doctoral programmes does not mean compromising on quality or rigour. Instead, it involves streamlining the process to focus on the most critical aspects of research and professional development. By reducing the time commitment required, universities can make doctoral programmes more appealing to a broader range of students, particularly those who are already engaged in demanding careers. Additionally, offering alternative pathways into doctoral education for those with substantial industry experience would help to democratise access to advanced qualifications, recognising the value of practical knowledge and skills alongside traditional academic credentials.

The Role of Interdisciplinarity and Leadership

The interdisciplinary nature of practice-based doctorates is another critical component that needs to be emphasised. Modern industry challenges are often complex and multifaceted, requiring solutions that draw on knowledge from multiple disciplines. Doctoral research that is broad in scope, synthesising insights from various fields, can lead to more innovative and effective solutions. This interdisciplinary approach should be a cornerstone of practice-based doctorates, ensuring that graduates are equipped to tackle the diverse challenges they will face in their careers.

Interdisciplinary research not only broadens the scope of inquiry but also fosters creativity and innovation. By drawing on diverse fields of knowledge, researchers can develop more holistic and integrated solutions to complex problems. This is particularly important in industries such as healthcare, education, and technology, where the challenges are often interconnected and cannot be addressed effectively through a single disciplinary lens. Encouraging interdisciplinary research within practice-based doctorates also helps to prepare graduates for leadership roles, where they will need to navigate and integrate different perspectives to drive change.

Leadership and strategic thinking are also key areas where practice-based doctorates can make a significant impact. These programmes should not only equip students with technical and practical skills but also prepare them to take on leadership roles within their organisations. The focus should be on developing leaders who can bridge the gap between academia and industry, driving change and innovation by applying their research in ways that are both relevant and impactful.

Leadership development within doctoral programmes is crucial because the challenges faced by modern organisations require more than just technical expertise. Effective leaders must be able to think strategically, manage change, and inspire others to achieve common goals. Practice-based doctorates can play a vital role in developing these skills, ensuring that graduates are not only experts in their fields but also capable of leading their organisations through periods of transformation. This emphasis on leadership is particularly important in industries where rapid technological change and global competition are creating new demands on organisations.

One of the most significant changes needed in the structure of practice-based doctorates is a reimagining of the doctoral thesis. Traditional theses, with their emphasis on theoretical exploration, are often not the best fit for students in practice-based programmes. Instead, these students should be encouraged to produce outputs that have direct value in their industries, such as business plans, strategic initiatives, or comprehensive industry reports. These types of projects are not only more aligned with the students’ professional goals but also provide immediate benefits to their organisations and sectors.

Reimagining the doctoral thesis to focus on practical outcomes does not mean abandoning academic rigour. On the contrary, it involves applying that rigour to projects that have real-world relevance and impact. By allowing students to produce work that is directly applicable to their industries, universities can ensure that doctoral research is both meaningful and valuable. This approach also helps to break down the barriers between academia and industry, fostering greater collaboration and ensuring that research is informed by and responsive to the needs of the real world.

Despite the clear need for change, the academic community has been slow to fully embrace and support practice-based doctorates. Many programmes remain heavily influenced by traditional PhD frameworks, leading to a continued focus on theory and a narrow scope of research. This resistance to change is a significant barrier to the development of more relevant and impactful doctoral programmes. However, there are opportunities for universities to collaborate with industry to develop and expand these programmes, creating a more dynamic and responsive higher education system.

Collaboration between universities and industry is essential for ensuring that practice-based doctorates remain relevant and effective. By working closely with industry partners, universities can ensure that their programmes are aligned with the needs of employers and that the research produced by their students is directly applicable to real-world challenges. This collaboration also provides opportunities for students to gain valuable industry experience and insights, further enhancing the practical relevance of their research.

New Models and the Future of Doctoral Education

The traditional MBA plays an important role in providing broad management education and equipping professionals with essential business skills. However, as business environments become increasingly complex, some professionals seek more specialised and advanced training. In this context, the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) can serve as either an advancement or an alternative to the MBA, offering a deeper focus on leadership, strategic management, and applied research. The DBA is particularly suited for those aiming to reach the highest levels of their organisations, where they can apply advanced research to solve practical problems.

The rise of the DBA reflects the growing recognition that advanced business education must go beyond general management principles to address specific challenges in today’s global economy. By focusing on applied research and practical solutions, the DBA equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation within their organisations. To fully realise the potential of the DBA, universities must ensure that these programmes remain distinct from traditional PhDs, with a clear emphasis on practical application rather than theoretical exploration.

To address gaps in the current system, a new framework specifically designed for practice-based doctorates is needed. The Professional Doctorates Framework would integrate and validate these programmes, ensuring they meet the needs of both academia and industry. This framework would prioritise industry relevance, interdisciplinary research, and practical outcomes, offering a structured and impactful approach to doctoral education. It would also provide clearer expectations and outcomes for students, helping to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Introducing such a framework is not just about creating new guidelines; it’s about rethinking the goals of doctoral education. By focusing on industry relevance and practical outcomes, this framework would ensure that doctoral research is directly applicable to real-world challenges and that graduates make meaningful contributions to their fields. This approach also addresses some of the existing shortcomings of practice-based doctorates, ensuring they are recognised and valued alongside traditional PhDs.

Innovation in doctoral education is crucial for the continued evolution of practice-based doctorates. By developing new models that integrate professional experience with academic rigour, universities can offer programmes that better align with the needs of students and employers. Pilot programmes and collaborations between universities and industry are essential for testing and refining these new models, ensuring they meet the needs of all stakeholders.

One promising approach is the "boot camp" model of doctoral education, which offers an intensive, hands-on learning experience. This model focuses on practical methods such as grounded theory, case studies, and industry expert interviews. The boot camp approach helps students immerse themselves in real-world problems, developing a deep understanding of the challenges they will face in their careers. By equipping students with practical tools and skills, this approach ensures they are well-prepared to apply their research in industry settings, making them more effective and impactful professionals.

Looking to the future, the role of practice-based doctorates is likely to become even more critical as industries continue to evolve. Fostering a culture of innovation within higher education will be essential for ensuring these programmes remain relevant. This includes embracing new technologies, such as generative AI, to accelerate research and knowledge acquisition. While students must produce their own work, AI tools can assist in brainstorming ideas, refining research questions, and exploring new avenues of inquiry.

The integration of new technologies into doctoral education represents a significant opportunity for enhancing the research process. AI tools can help students process large amounts of data, identify patterns, and generate new insights, making the research process more efficient and effective. However, it is important to ensure that these tools support, rather than undermine, the integrity of the research process. By embracing these technologies, universities can better prepare students for the challenges of conducting research in a rapidly changing world.

Finally, practice-based doctorates should encourage students to develop and test new business models, ideas, or prototypes. These projects should integrate academic theories with practical, real-world problems, allowing students to create solutions that are both innovative and impactful. Evaluating and refining these models through professional and academic lenses would provide valuable insights and ensure that the research remains relevant and effective.

Implementing these changes will not be without challenges. Resistance from within academia, particularly from those deeply invested in the traditional PhD model, is likely. However, there are opportunities to learn from institutions that have already embraced these approaches, drawing on their success stories and lessons learned to guide the development of new programmes.

While resistance to change is natural in any innovation process, universities must remain focused on improving the quality and relevance of doctoral education. By learning from institutions that have successfully integrated practice-based doctorates, universities can develop new programmes aligned with the needs of students and employers, while also pushing the boundaries of what doctoral research can achieve.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Higher Education

The future of doctoral education lies in its ability to adapt and evolve in response to the changing needs of society and industry. By embracing practice-based doctorates and recognising the value of professional experience, higher education can better prepare students for the challenges they will face in their careers. This evolution is not just necessary; it is inevitable, and those institutions that are able to adapt will be the ones that thrive in the years to come.

The challenge before us is clear: higher education must undergo a transformation to remain relevant and impactful in the modern world. This means breaking away from the constraints of traditional academic models and embracing new approaches that prioritise practical, industry-relevant research. Practice-based doctorates are a key part of this transformation, offering a pathway for professionals to enhance their skills, contribute to their industries, and drive meaningful change.

One of the most critical steps in this transformation is the recognition and integration of industry experience within doctoral programmes. This experience brings invaluable insights and perspectives that can enrich academic research and ensure its applicability in real-world settings. Universities must acknowledge the importance of this experience and create pathways for professionals to leverage their expertise in pursuit of advanced qualifications.

The development of flexible, accessible doctoral programmes is also essential for meeting the needs of today’s professionals. Online and hybrid models offer a solution to the time and logistical challenges faced by many working professionals, allowing them to balance their studies with their careers. These programmes must be designed with the flexibility to accommodate diverse needs, while maintaining the academic rigour that defines doctoral education.

The structure of doctoral programmes must be re-evaluated to ensure they are fit for purpose. Shorter, more intensive programmes that build on existing professional knowledge are not only more practical but also more aligned with the needs of industry. These programmes should be complemented by the introduction of new pathways for those with significant industry experience but without traditional academic qualifications, recognising the value of their contributions and providing opportunities for further advancement.

Interdisciplinary research should be at the heart of these programmes, encouraging students to draw on knowledge from multiple fields to address complex challenges. This approach not only enhances the relevance of their research but also prepares them to think critically and innovatively in their professional roles.

Leadership development is another crucial aspect of practice-based doctorates. These programmes should focus on cultivating the skills needed to lead and manage change within organisations, ensuring that graduates are equipped to take on strategic roles and drive innovation. The emphasis should be on creating leaders who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying their expertise in ways that make a tangible impact.

To fully realise the potential of practice-based doctorates, the traditional thesis model must be rethought. Rather than producing purely theoretical documents, students should be encouraged to create work that has direct application in their industries. This could take the form of business plans, industry reports, or strategic initiatives, all of which would maintain academic rigour while providing immediate value to their organisations.

Ultimately, the future of doctoral education must be focused on creating a system that is flexible, relevant, and responsive to the needs of both students and industry. By embracing new models of practice-based doctorates, integrating industry experience, and prioritising practical outcomes, universities can ensure that they remain at the forefront of educational innovation, preparing the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.