An honorary degree or a degree honoris causa (Latin: "for the sake of the honor") is an academic degree for which a university (or other degree-awarding institution) has waived the usual requirements, such as matriculation, residence, study, and the passing of examinations. The degree is typically a doctorate or, less commonly, a master's degree, and may be awarded to someone who has no prior connection with the academic institution.
Usually the degree is conferred as a way of honoring a distinguished visitor's contributions to a specific field, or to society in general. The university often derives benefits by association with the person in question.
Read more about Honorary Degree: Historical Origins and Rationale, Modern Practice, Practical Use, Institutions Not Awarding Honorary Degrees, Controversy
Famous quotes containing the word degree:
“In the mass of mankind, I fear, there is too great a majority of fools and knaves; who, singly from their number, must to a certain degree be respected, though they are by no means respectable.”
—Philip Dormer Stanhope, 4th Earl Chesterfield (1694–1773)