The role of the Professional Doctorate in developing professional practice

AIMS: The present study aims to reflect on, and analyse, one particular approach to the award of a Professional Doctorate. BACKGROUND: The concept of the 'Professional' Doctorate offers opportunities for the development of work-based skills which transcend professional boundaries. There is now an established basis for Professional Doctorates with many Universities offering a qualification of this nature. EVALUATIONS: It commences with a consideration of what the Professional Doctorate is, the philosophy of the Professional Doctorate and how it can impact on professional practice. KEY ISSUES: The key issues are underpinnings of the Professional Doctorate which is concerned with Mode 2 knowledge and the ways in which the Professional Doctorate can enhance and develop practice. CONCLUSIONS: Conclusions are then drawn which the authors believe will be of use to those managing, developing and studying on, Professional Doctorate programmes. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: The present study then explores the issues which the authors have experienced over the past 5 years in running the scheme and highlights the potential benefits of the professional doctorate for organizations.