ABSTRACT
The doctorate in professional studies (DProf, sometimes called Prof D) illustrates a different kind of approach to doctoral education than one focused on research training or contributing to professional development within a particular profession. It is aimed at developing professionals to the highest level of academic ability within their own contexts through building on generic high level abilities, and making a significant contribution to practice acknowledged as such by peers in the same field. Though significantly different in kind to the PhD and other professional doctorates, it seeks to give capable individuals, who are usually full-time workers, opportunity to gain doctorate status through achievements based primarily on research and development and demonstrating doctoral capability in professional practice. DProf programmes are designed to impact in any professional field where influence is achieved via individuals and their organisations, networks, etc. in key areas of professional life. This chapter shows how the particular practices of this doctorate emerged from work-based learning and how, through case example, the programme is constructed, implemented and assessed.
