The Ph.D. requires at least three years of full-time study beyond the bachelor's degree, equivalent to at least 90 semester hours, including a dissertation representing at least 30 hours of research credit. Students already holding an applicable master's degree upon admission can count 30 credits toward the 90 credits required for the doctorate.<br><br>The Ph.D. is awarded to candidates who have demonstrated unique ability as scholars and researchers as well as proficiency in communication. The degree also certifies that the candidate has displayed familiarity and understanding of the subject matter in the discipline and possesses the ability to make original contributions to knowledge.