2.4.1 How to Receive Honorary Degrees (e.g., DD, DMin, etc.)

Processes and Criteria for Awarding Honorary Academic Titles

Introduction

Honorary degrees are prestigious awards conferred by universities to acknowledge individuals’ exceptional contributions to society, scholarship, or professional fields without formal academic study. This article explains how such degrees—like Doctor of Divinity (DD) or Doctor of Ministry (DMin)—are typically awarded and the criteria involved.

The Awarding Process

Nomination

  • Candidates for honorary degrees are usually nominated by university faculty, alumni, trustees, or influential community members (Rumbley, Altbach & Reisberg, 2012).
  • Nominations often highlight the nominee’s outstanding achievements and alignment with the institution’s values and mission.

Evaluation and Approval

  • A university committee, often the honorary degrees or academic affairs committee, reviews nominations considering the candidate’s contributions and reputation.
  • Final approval is generally given by the university’s governing body or senate.

Conferral

  • Honorary degrees are formally conferred during graduation or special ceremonies, often accompanied by public commendations.
  • Recipients receive diplomas or certificates symbolising the honour.

Typical Criteria for Awardees

  • Distinguished service in academia, religion, public service, arts, science, or philanthropy.
  • Significant impact on society or the university community.
  • Exemplary moral character and leadership.

Characteristics of Honorary Degree Recipients

  • Leaders such as clergy, scholars, politicians, philanthropists, artists, or activists.
  • Individuals whose work embodies the institution’s ideals or advances its academic mission.

Important Considerations

  • Honorary degrees are symbolic and do not confer the academic privileges or qualifications of earned doctorates.
  • Recipients often use the title honorifically but should clarify its honorary status to avoid misrepresentation.

Conclusion

Receiving an honorary degree results from a nomination and vetting process recognising outstanding contributions rather than formal study. Understanding this process clarifies the ceremonial nature and significance of honorary doctorates like the DD or DMin.

References

  • Rumbley, L. E., Altbach, P. G., & Reisberg, L. (2012). International Handbook of Higher Education. Springer.
  • Slaughter, S., & Rhoades, G. (2004). Academic Capitalism and the New Economy: Markets, State, and Higher Education. Johns Hopkins University Press.
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