is an academic degree , awarded by a university or similar institution. "Doctor" is used to refer to a person with a doctorate. To obtain the degree, people need to pass a special exam, called a doctorate , or by writing a thesis . The requirements vary according to the subject-matter. A doctorate is usually regarded as a higher degree than a bachelor's degree (such as B.A. or B.Sc ) People who have a doctor's degree may use the title "doctor", though in practice it is often used only by medical doctors. Medical doctors examine, diagnose and treat patients. They can specialize in a number of medical areas, such as pediatrics , anesthesiology or cardiology , or they can work as general practice physicians . Becoming a medical doctor requires a doctoral degree in medicine and participating in clinical training. Medical doctors need a licence, and certification may also be required for many speci...