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Doctor of Letters

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Doctor of Letters (Latin: Litterarum doctor; D.Litt.; or Litt.D.) is a university academic degree.

In the United Kingdom, Australia, and certain other countries, the degree is a higher doctorate, above the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), and is issued on the basis of a long record of research and publication. The degree D.Litt. is awarded to candidates whose record of published work and research shows conspicuous ability and originality and constitutes a distinguished and sustained achievement. University committee and board approval is required, and candidates must provide documented mastery of a particular area or field.

In the United States, the degree is almost always an honorary degree often conferred to those who have contributed to the humanities and/or society.

Notable Recipients

These people are considered notable in the public eye, or have performed a service worthy of recognition, and have received a Doctor of Letters.


^These recipients are recognised as 'honorary recipients', awarded by the University of Exeter.

See also