Proper Titles for University Professors with PhDs: Addressing Them in Person

Introduction

When addressing a university professor who holds a PhD, it can sometimes be confusing to know which title to use. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to address such individuals in person, based on cultural norms and professional practices.

General Guidelines

In general, it is best to use the most formal title that you can think of if you are uncertain. This is particularly true in countries where titles are more formally recognized, such as Austria. In places like France or the United States, using more formal titles may seem unusual but will not be considered rude.

Addressing a Professor with Two Titles (PhD and Doctorate)

Most university professors in the modern academic world hold both titles:

“Doctor of Philosophy” A professional title such as “Professor”

However, the preference for one title over the other may vary depending on the country and the professor's role.

United States

In the United States, you can use either title, but usage can vary between colleges and universities.

United Kingdom and its former colonies

In the UK and most former British colonies, the title “Professor” is generally considered higher and more prestigious if the person holds it.

Germany

In Germany, the professor is addressed as “Herr Doktor Professor,” indicating both titles.

The Philippines

In the Philippines, there used to be a preference for the title “Dr.” due to the large number of professors who had not earned doctorates. However, this may have changed in more recent times.

Immediate Relationship Consideration

How you address a professor also depends on your relationship with them:

First Name: If the professor is informal and comfortable with it, you can use their first name. Professionally: If the relationship is formal, address them as “Professor.” This is more respectful and emphasizes their academic accomplishments.

Instinct and Cultural Sensitivity

It is crucial to consider the specific context and culture. Dr. Abdul P J Kalaam may be fine for a casual conversation, but Dr. C R Rao might not be. Medical professionals, especially those with a Doctor of Medicine (MD), may feel more comfortable with “Dr.”

Professional vs. Academic Titles

A title of “Professor” does not confer the same level of professional responsibility as an “MD.” A PhD holder is someone who has created new knowledge and is qualified to share that knowledge, making “Professor” a more respectful title in an academic setting.

Honorary Doctorates

For those who have earned honorary doctorates, it is not appropriate to refer to them as “Dr.” in day-to-day or formal conversations. Maya Angelou, for example, should not call herself Dr. Maya Angelou, despite commonly doing so. Such distinctions are more about the nature of the title and its use than professional connotation.

Understanding these nuances can help you navigate social and professional interactions with university professors more effectively.