The landscape of doctoral education is evolving. Today’s professionals seek more than theoretical knowledge—they want advanced learning that directly impacts their workplace and industry. This is where the Doctor of Professional Practice (DPP) comes in. It’s a doctoral degree designed not just for academics, but for experienced professionals who want to translate their expertise into real-world innovation and leadership.
What Is a Doctor of Professional Practice (DPP)?
The Doctor of Professional Practice, often abbreviated as DPP or sometimes DProf, is a practice-based doctoral degree that focuses on applying research and advanced thinking to solve complex professional problems.
Unlike the traditional PhD, which centers on theoretical or academic research, the DPP emphasizes practical application—turning professional experience and insights into actionable outcomes that improve organizations, industries, and communities.
In essence, a DPP equips professionals to bridge the gap between theory and practice, combining rigorous research with the realities of professional life.
Historical Background
The concept of professional doctorates emerged in the late 20th century, primarily in response to the growing need for advanced qualifications that cater to practitioners rather than academics.
Early examples include the Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)—programs created for professionals who wanted to deepen their expertise without transitioning into academia.
Over time, the Doctor of Professional Practice evolved as a cross-disciplinary model, applicable to professionals in fields such as management, healthcare, technology, creative industries, and public administration. The DPP framework gained recognition particularly in the UK, Australia, and later in the United States, where universities began adopting practice-based doctoral pathways to address workplace challenges through applied research.
DPP vs PhD: What’s the Difference?
While both DPP and the PhD are terminal degrees (the highest level of academic achievement), they differ in purpose, focus, outcome, target audience, and contribution.
| Aspect | Doctor of Professional Practice (DPP) | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
| Purpose | Solves real-world professional problems | Expands theoretical or academic knowledge |
| Focus | Applied research rooted in professional experience | Original academic research |
| Outcome | Practical solutions, frameworks, or innovations for industry | Published academic findings and theories |
| Ideal Candidate | Experienced professionals and leaders | Researchers and scholars |
| Dissertation/Project | Professional project or portfolio | Traditional research dissertation |
Put simply, a PhD contributes to academia, while a DPP contributes to professional practice. Both are equally rigorous, but their goals and outcomes differ according to the student’s career path.
How the DPP Differs from Other Professional Doctorates
While other professional doctorates, such as DBA and EdD focus on specific fields, the DPP is broader and more flexible. It can be pursued by professionals from any discipline who wish to advance their knowledge and impact through applied research.
For instance:
- A DBA focuses mainly on business leadership and management.
- An EdD is tailored to educators and academic administrators.
- A DPP, however, can integrate elements from business, social sciences, technology, healthcare, and beyond—making it a multidisciplinary and customizable pathway for advanced professional growth.
Who Should Consider a Doctor of Professional Practice?
A DPP is ideal for:
- Senior professionals or executives seeking to enhance their strategic and analytical capabilities.
- Consultants and industry experts who wish to formalize their experience into a doctoral-level qualification.
- Practitioners and innovators looking to lead change within their organizations or sectors.
- Individuals who want to contribute to their field without necessarily pursuing an academic career.
The DPP offers flexibility and relevance—students can pursue research directly connected to their professional environment, ensuring immediate applicability and tangible results.
Why the DPP Matters in Today’s World
In an era defined by rapid technological and social change, the DPP stands out as a degree of transformation. It empowers professionals to:
- Tackle complex, real-world challenges using evidence-based approaches.
- Drive innovation within their industries.
- Elevate their credibility and leadership influence.
- Strengthen the bridge between academia and practice.
By blending reflection, research, and action, the DPP produces professionals who not only know, but also do—and lead.
Take the Next Step
If you’re an experienced professional ready to take your expertise to the highest level, consider joining the Doctor of Professional Practice (DPP) at the University of Digital and AI Management (UniDAIM).
Our DPP program is a 100% online, self-paced doctoral program designed for experienced professionals seeking to apply advanced research directly to their field of practice. The program consists of 2 modules totaling 75 credits, typically completed within one year depending on individual progress. There is no coursework—students focus entirely on developing and completing a professional project that demonstrates their expertise and impact. UniDAIM offers this program with a one-time administrative fee of $1,500, payable in flexible installments, making it an accessible and practice-focused pathway to earning a doctoral-level qualification.
Learn more and apply today: Doctor of Professional Practice (DPP)