Reflections on the identity and contribution of doctoral graduates. A work in progress

This presentation introduces a reflective study on the identity and contribution of professional doctorate graduates. The study charts the learning journey of three professional doctorate graduates through their vignette stories. A narrative analysis highlighted a range of themes including leadership, service and responsibility to others and trust and ethical practice. These themes are considered in light of the doctorate contribution and longer term sphere of influence that the professional doctors may have. Engendering trust through the title 'Dr' seemed to be relevant. Looking at how other professions build trust in a role and title, led to consideration of the medical doctor Hippocratic Oath. A range of oaths and pledges are considered in the development of a General Hippocratic Oath for Professional Doctors (a Prof Doc Pledge) which has been included. The Prof Doc Pledge is seen as open and relevant to all doctoral graduates outside of the medical practitioner Hippocratic Oath