A Doctor of Humane Letters degree can only be earned through significant contributions to society, not through academic efforts. The likelihood of a D.H.L. nomination increases when you form relationships with colleges and universities while keeping good records of your progress. Even after being nominated, a person’s title is not guaranteed because committees review all nominations before deciding who will receive the award.
Doctor of Humane Letters degrees are considered “honoris causa” degrees. This literally means “for the sake of honor,” implying that the degree is an honorary title conferred to demonstrate respect. It is comparable to other honorary degrees such as the Doctor of Divinity or Doctor of Laws in this regard.
The Doctor of Humane Letters distinction is not the same as an academic or earned degree because it is an honoris causa degree. A student earns his title with an academic degree successfully completing required coursework. When a recipient has made significant contributions to society or his field, an organization bestows an honoris causa degree. The D.H.L. degree recognizes practical application of expertise in the humanities or philanthropic areas in this way.
Recognizing that a Doctor of Humane Letters degree is not an academic honor, the only way to earn one is to participate in activities that benefit society. However, there are numerous paths to this goal. A person could help communities through religious activities, social work, or even politics, for example. Although entry-level positions in these fields are important, the D.H.L. degree is for those who have made a significant difference or who have preserved something that societies value across generations. This means that individuals must strive for positions of leadership, which may require additional education or field-specific training.
When a person works for the community, he should keep track of his accomplishments. This is significant because, despite the fact that a person’s work may have far-reaching consequences, the general public does not always keep meticulous records of exact protocols or duty assignments. Records show that specific effects can be traced back to a specific person. An individual can compile the records over time to demonstrate the total weight of a D.H.L. candidate’s work.
When an individual serves as the keynote speaker at a graduation or similar event, colleges and universities traditionally award him a Doctor of Humane Letters degree. Although a person’s body of work can attract the attention of colleges and universities on its own, an individual may need to reach out to the college or university on their own to establish a good relationship that could lead to an invitation to speak. One way to do this is to get involved in academically-related activities or organizations.
Officials at a university or college are more likely to nominate someone for the D.H.L. degree if they have good relationships with colleges and universities and a track record of service to others. Following the completion of nominations, one or more review boards examine all of the nominations to determine the final recipient. Officials don’t usually reveal the review’s findings until they’re ready to contact the honoree.