What Is a Doctorate and Who Is It For? A Complete Guide to Doctoral Studies (PhD)

A High-Level Overview

A doctorate (PhD) is a central milestone in academic and professional development. During doctoral studies, students engage in original research, develop deep and focused expertise, and contribute new knowledge to their chosen field.

The path to a PhD can begin through several different routes, depending on your academic background, achievements, and future goals. Getting to know the available doctoral tracks in advance allows you to plan wisely and choose the route that best fits you. Let’s explore the options open to those considering this prestigious academic degree.

Who Can Pursue a Doctorate?

Doctoral studies are designed for outstanding students who wish to deepen their academic training and, in many cases, build a research or academic career. The standard route to a PhD is open to candidates who have completed a master’s degree with a minimum average grade of 85, including a grade of at least 85 on their thesis. Some departments may require even higher grades.

It is important to note that this route is also open to graduates of non-thesis master’s programs who later completed a thesis or an equivalent research project.

What Is the Direct Track to a PhD?

Excelled during your bachelor’s degree and already know you want an academic career? The direct PhD track may be right for you.

Students with a bachelor’s degree and a minimum average of 90, who completed their degree within the two years prior to applying, may be eligible for this accelerated route. In this track, students take master’s-level coursework alongside thesis studies while creating academic continuity between degree stages.

This option is intended for exceptional bachelor’s graduates and allows a faster transition from foundational studies to a substantial, independent research project.

Can You Start a PhD During a Master’s Degree?

The short answer is yes.

Outstanding students who begin a research-based master’s degree and decide they want to continue directly to a PhD may apply to a combined master’s–doctoral track.

In this integrated track, the findings of your master’s thesis serve as the foundation for your doctoral research proposal. This academic continuity strengthens the research process and increases the likelihood of success.

There are two options within this track:

Submission of a thesis together with a PhD research proposal. This option grants a full master’s degree with a thesis and grade, followed by immediate continuation to doctoral studies.

Submission of a research proposal only. In some departments, students may receive a master’s degree within the combined PhD track without submitting a separate thesis, according to departmental structure.

Is It Possible to Pursue a PhD Without Meeting the Standard Admission Requirements?

If you have the motivation, there may still be a path forward. Several alternative routes to doctoral studies exist:

A preparatory track for doctoral studies is designed for candidates with bachelor’s and thesis-based master’s degrees in a different field from the intended PhD, provided they meet the general admission threshold. This track includes up to eight weekly hours of supplementary coursework to build the required disciplinary foundation.

An equivalent-to-thesis research track is intended for candidates with bachelor’s and master’s degrees without a thesis and a minimum average of 90. This route involves writing a substantial research paper under the supervision of an approved advisor, replacing the traditional master’s thesis.

A thesis completion track is available to graduates of non-thesis master’s programs and may include additional coursework relevant to the future research field. This option allows candidates to complete the necessary research component from the master’s level.

Each application is evaluated individually, taking into account the candidate’s academic background, aspirations, achievements, and the department’s recommendation.

How to Choose the Right PhD Track

As with any major life decision, informed planning and consultation are essential. Before choosing a doctoral track, it is recommended to:

Think about the coming years. How much time can you realistically dedicate to research and study? Are you able to commit most of your day to doctoral work?

Speak with faculty members you respect. Advice from experienced researchers and lecturers can help align your academic background with the most suitable path.

Consult alumni. There is no substitute for experience. Graduates who have already made this choice can offer honest insights into challenges, advantages, and opportunities.

Choosing a PhD track is a meaningful decision that can significantly shape your future. Investing time in thoughtful planning will help you make the choice that best supports both your academic and personal goals—and allows you to enjoy the journey. Good luck.

For more information about department-specific admission requirements and doctoral tracks, visit the School of Graduate Studies at Bar-Ilan University or contact the relevant department directly.