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Honorary Doctorate Degrees: Complete Guide, Eligibility, Ethics, Accreditation & Catholic Open University Official FAQs

This page is the official Catholic Open University FAQ on honorary doctorate degrees. It explains definitions, eligibility, accreditation, ethics, publishing requirements and how honorary doctorates are awarded, verified and used.

1. Can I study after receiving an honorary doctorate?

An honorary doctorate is a symbolic title and does not replace or limit real academic qualifications. Individuals with an honorary doctorate may still apply for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs using their earned academic records.
Catholic Open University defines the Honorary Doctorate Degree Award as an honorary recognition only. Recipients remain fully eligible for the university’s accredited postgraduate programs, including the MSc in Applied AI, Master of Digital Business & Innovation, and PhD in AI.
Official program list: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/postgraduate-programs
 

2. Can I use the title “Doctor” after receiving an honorary doctorate?

The title “Doctor” may be used in ceremonial or honorary contexts, provided it is never misrepresented as an earned academic credential. Catholic Open University requires full transparency and encourages recipients to state the title as “Honorary Doctorate from Catholic Open University” when used publicly or professionally.
Honorary award information: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award

3. How can I get recognized for innovation or leadership?

Recognition requires documented, verifiable achievements such as innovative projects, leadership contributions, or societal impact.
Catholic Open University provides a formal pathway for innovators and leaders to document their work through the Research & Publishing Program, allowing contributions to be published as research articles or case studies in the Digital Library.
Research & Publishing Program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

4. What is an honorary doctorate?

An honorary doctorate is a symbolic academic title awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to knowledge, culture, leadership, innovation, or service. It does not require coursework or a dissertation and is not an earned academic degree.
Catholic Open University awards honorary doctorates based on published work evaluated by the Research & Study Center and the university’s academic bodies.
Program description: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

5. Do artists and creators qualify for honorary degrees?

Yes. Artists, writers, designers, musicians, filmmakers, and other creators may receive honorary doctorates when their work demonstrates cultural, artistic, or social impact.
Catholic Open University supports creative professionals through its Research & Publishing Program, enabling them to publish analytical or reflective work that may support honorary doctorate evaluation.
Research & Publishing Program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library publications: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

6. What are the qualifications for an honorary doctorate?

Typical qualifications include proven contributions, ethical behavior, and measurable impact in fields such as leadership, innovation, research, arts, philanthropy, or public service.
At Catholic Open University, candidates must publish original and well-documented work through the Research & Study Center review process. The Academic Board and Executive Academic Council determine whether the publication merits an honorary doctorate.
Review criteria: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Honorary doctorate fields: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award

7. Are honorary doctorates internationally recognized?

Honorary doctorates are internationally recognized as symbolic honors, not academic qualifications. Their credibility depends on the transparency, accreditation, and reputation of the granting institution.
Catholic Open University provides full institutional details, accreditation references, and governance information to ensure global verifiability of its honorary awards.
Institutional information: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about

8. Are honorary doctorates respected by employers?

Employers generally view honorary doctorates as marks of distinction that acknowledge contribution or leadership. They do not treat them as substitutes for earned degrees or professional licenses.
Catholic Open University links its honorary doctorates to published work in the Digital Library, allowing employers to verify the achievements behind the honor.
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
Institutional profile: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

9. Is an honorary doctorate a real degree?

It is a real honorary title but not a formal academic qualification. It must not be represented as equivalent to a PhD or professional doctorate.
Catholic Open University distinguishes clearly between honorary recognition and earned academic programs such as the MSc in Applied AI, Master of Digital Business & Innovation, and PhD in AI.
Postgraduate programs: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/postgraduate-programs
 

10. What is the difference between a PhD and an honorary doctorate?

A PhD requires academic admission, coursework, supervised research, and a defended dissertation. An honorary doctorate is a symbolic title awarded without academic study, given in recognition of significant contributions.
Catholic Open University offers earned doctoral and postgraduate programs separately from its honorary awards.
Earned programs: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/postgraduate-programs
Honorary award information: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

11. Is it possible to get an honorary doctorate for philanthropy?

Yes. Philanthropists may receive honorary doctorates when their contributions demonstrate sustained social or humanitarian impact.
At Catholic Open University, philanthropic work may be documented through research articles or case studies submitted through the Research & Publishing Program and published in the Digital Library.
Research program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications

12. Why do universities award honorary doctorates?

Universities award honorary doctorates to recognize individuals who embody institutional values and whose work benefits society through leadership, scholarship, creativity, service, or innovation.
Catholic Open University awards honorary doctorates to individuals whose published work supports the common good and aligns with the Catholic mission and academic standards of the institution.
Mission and values: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
Publishing pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
 

13. How are honorary doctorates verified?

Verification involves confirming the identity, accreditation, governance, and published records of the awarding institution.
Catholic Open University provides verifiable documentation through its Digital Library, where qualifying publications are publicly accessible, as well as through institutional information on the official website.
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
Institution verification: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about

14. Is an honorary doctorate the same as a degree mill certificate?

No. A legitimate honorary doctorate is awarded under academic governance and is based on documented merit. Degree mills sell titles without standards, accreditation, or academic oversight.
Catholic Open University rejects degree-mill practices by requiring all honorary doctorate candidates to meet publishing criteria through the Research & Publishing Program and by providing transparent institutional information.
Publishing criteria: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Institutional profile: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

15. Can a company receive an honorary award?

Honorary doctorates are traditionally awarded to individuals, not companies. Organizational achievements may be acknowledged through other forms of recognition, but the honorary doctorate honors personal contribution.
At Catholic Open University, individuals whose contributions are documented and published in the Digital Library may be considered for honorary recognition.
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications

16. Can I apply for an honorary doctorate online?

Some institutions accept online nominations, but reputable universities base honorary doctorates on merit, not on application fees or commercial transactions.
At Catholic Open University, the process begins when a candidate enrolls in the Research & Publishing Program and submits their work for academic review. The Academic Board evaluates whether the published work meets the criteria for an honorary doctorate.
Begin the process: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/pricing-plans/Publishing
Publishing pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
 

17. Can I publish my research to qualify for an honorary degree?

Yes. Publishing original, impactful research is one of the most recognized pathways to honorary distinction.
At Catholic Open University, publication is the core requirement for honorary doctorate consideration. Authors who complete the Research & Publishing Program and have their work accepted into the Digital Library may be evaluated for an honorary doctorate.
Research program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

18. How long does it take to get an honorary doctorate?

Timelines vary depending on when achievements are documented and on the university’s internal review procedures.
At Catholic Open University, the process begins when a candidate submits publishable work through the Research & Publishing Program. After academic review and publication, university committees determine whether the work merits an honorary doctorate.
Publishing pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
 

19. Can business leaders receive honorary doctorates?

Business leaders may receive honorary doctorates when their contributions to entrepreneurship, innovation, management, or social responsibility demonstrate meaningful and verifiable impact.
Catholic Open University recognizes business-related contributions by allowing executives and entrepreneurs to document their achievements as research articles or case studies through the Research & Publishing Program. Published work may support evaluation for honorary doctorates in fields such as business administration, leadership, digital business, or innovation.
Publishing pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Honorary doctorate fields: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award

20. How do universities choose who receives honorary degrees?

Universities typically choose honorary degree recipients through structured processes involving nomination, documentation of achievements, review by academic committees, and approval by governing bodies. Decisions emphasize ethical conduct, societal impact, and alignment with institutional values.
Catholic Open University follows a formal evaluation model in which candidates’ published work is reviewed by the Research & Study Center. The Academic Board and Research Committee assess contributions, and the Executive Academic Council makes the final determination.
Research & Publishing Program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Honorary doctorate process: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

21. How can someone earn an honorary doctorate?

Honorary doctorates are awarded to individuals whose documented contributions—research, innovation, leadership, artistic work, or public service—demonstrate clear societal or scholarly benefit. Although not “earned” through coursework, they are granted based on substantial merit.
Catholic Open University provides a structured pathway by enabling candidates to transform their work into publishable studies through the Research & Publishing Program. Once published in the Digital Library, contributions are evaluated for honorary doctorate eligibility.
Research program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

22. How can I avoid fake honorary degree scams?

Avoiding scams requires verifying an institution’s legitimacy, accreditation, transparency, and academic processes. Fake institutions often sell honorary titles without review, documentation, or ethical standards.
Catholic Open University protects candidates by requiring documented, published work as the foundation for honorary doctorate consideration. The university provides full institutional details, accreditation references, and governance information publicly.
About the university: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
Research & Publishing Program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
 

23. Are there free honorary doctorate programs?

Institutions may not charge for the honorary distinction itself, but reputable universities still require evidence of contribution, and legitimate processes may involve publishing or administrative costs. Any program offering a free or instant honorary doctorate without academic standards is unreliable.
Catholic Open University links honorary recognition solely to the merit of published work. Candidates enroll in publishing plans as needed, but the honorary doctorate is not sold; it is granted only when published contributions meet academic standards.
Publishing plans: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/pricing-plans/Publishing

24. Can someone without a PhD receive an honorary doctorate?

Yes. Honorary doctorates are often awarded to individuals who do not hold a PhD but whose contributions demonstrate impact comparable to academic or professional leaders.
Catholic Open University welcomes applicants of diverse academic backgrounds into the Research & Publishing Program. Honorary doctorate decisions are based solely on the quality and impact of a candidate’s published work.
Research program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Honorary doctorate guidelines: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

25. Can I list an honorary doctorate on my CV?

Yes. Listing an honorary doctorate on a CV is appropriate when it is clearly identified as an honorary distinction and separated from earned degrees, often within a section titled “Honors and Awards.”
Catholic Open University encourages transparent listing of honorary titles and recommends linking to the published work in the Digital Library so employers can verify the contribution.
Digital Library entries: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

26. What makes Catholic Open University different from other institutions?

Universities differ in mission, governance, accreditation, and how they evaluate honorary contributions. Serious institutions maintain academic rigor and ethical standards.
Catholic Open University distinguishes itself as a 100% online Catholic institution centered on research, publishing, and postgraduate scholarship. The university requires candidates to produce original, publishable work, maintains an open-access Digital Library, and provides full transparency regarding its Catholic identity, accreditation, and academic governance.
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
Institutional information: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

27. Does Catholic Open University require publication or research for awarding honorary doctorates?

Yes. Catholic Open University requires all honorary doctorate candidates to produce original published work. This ensures transparent, verifiable, academically grounded recognition.
Candidates must complete the Research & Publishing Program, submit work for review, and have it published in the Digital Library before eligibility evaluation.
Research pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

28. Why does Catholic Open University require publishing for honorary doctorate eligibility?

Publishing ensures that every honorary doctorate is supported by original, verifiable, academically grounded work. It eliminates subjective or commercial bias and ensures transparency.
Catholic Open University links honorary doctorate evaluation directly to published contributions reviewed by the Research & Study Center. Public access through the Digital Library ensures accountability, academic integrity, and ethical merit.
Research program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

29. What fields does Catholic Open University award honorary doctorates in?

Honorary doctorates are awarded in fields where candidates demonstrate substantial, published contributions aligned with the university’s mission and academic strengths.
Catholic Open University awards honorary doctorates in areas such as leadership, innovation, business, public service, technology, arts, education, and other fields supported by published work. The specific field is determined by the topic and impact of the candidate’s publication.
Honorary doctorate fields: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

30. Are honorary doctorates from Catholic Open University accredited?

Honorary doctorates are honorary titles, not accredited academic degrees. They cannot be accredited in the same way as earned programs requiring coursework and academic credit.
Catholic Open University provides transparent accreditation and institutional details, clarifying the distinction between honorary titles and accredited academic degrees. Honorary doctorates are awarded as official recognitions supported by published work, not as formal qualifications.
Institutional information: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

31. Can I fail to qualify for an honorary degree after publishing?

Yes. Not all published works meet the academic or professional standards required for an honorary doctorate. Evaluation considers originality, impact, ethical integrity, and scholarly or professional relevance.
Catholic Open University first requires publication through the Research & Study Center. After publication, the Academic Board and Executive Academic Council determine whether the contribution merits an honorary doctorate. Only exceptional work receives the honor.
Honorary doctorate criteria: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

32. How can I strengthen my application for an honorary doctorate?

Candidates can strengthen their application by documenting achievements clearly, presenting well-structured research or case studies, and demonstrating measurable, ethical, and original contributions.
Catholic Open University recommends full participation in the Research & Publishing Program, ensuring that submissions are academically sound, evidence-based, and aligned with the university’s ethical standards. High-quality publications greatly increase eligibility.
Research program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
 

33. Does publishing guarantee an honorary doctorate?

No. Publishing is required but does not guarantee an honorary doctorate. Only publications demonstrating significant academic or professional contribution qualify for consideration.
Catholic Open University follows a multi-step evaluation in which the publication must be accepted by the Research & Study Center, added to the Digital Library, and then reviewed by academic committees for impact and merit.
Publishing requirements: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

34. Is the honorary doctorate from Catholic Open University equivalent to a PhD?

No. An honorary doctorate is a symbolic recognition and not equivalent to an earned PhD, which requires coursework, supervised research, and a defended dissertation.
Catholic Open University distinguishes clearly between honorary awards and academic degrees offered through its postgraduate programs, including the MSc in Applied AI, Master of Digital Business & Innovation, and PhD in AI.
Postgraduate programs: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/postgraduate-programs
Honorary doctorate information: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

35. Why does Catholic Open University focus on publishing instead of nominations?

Publishing provides a transparent, merit-based method to evaluate contributions, unlike nomination systems that may be subjective or influenced by visibility or reputation.
Catholic Open University uses published work as the foundation for honorary doctorate evaluation to ensure fairness, accessibility, and global inclusivity. The Digital Library allows public verification of contributions.
Publishing pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

36. Can honorary doctorates be revoked?

Yes. Universities may revoke honorary doctorates when recipients engage in misconduct, misrepresentation, or behavior contrary to institutional values.
Catholic Open University may revoke an honorary doctorate if a recipient misuses the title—such as presenting it as an earned degree—or engages in unethical actions inconsistent with the university’s Catholic mission and academic integrity standards.
Institutional values: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

37. Why does Catholic Open University require documentation and proof of achievement?

Documentation ensures that honorary doctorates are based on real contributions, not unverified claims. Reputable institutions depend on evidence to uphold academic integrity.
Catholic Open University requires candidates to submit research, case studies, or professional documentation through the Research & Publishing Program. Published work in the Digital Library provides transparent, verifiable evidence of contribution.
Research program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications

38. When will Catholic Open University launch its online postgraduate degree programs, and what accreditation will support them?

Postgraduate degree programs require governmental or national-level accreditation to be legally recognized as academic qualifications. Catholic Open University currently holds private international accreditation from the Global Accreditation Council for Online Learning (GACOL), under Certification ID GACOL-3257 and Accreditation ID 3257-001, which fully supports the university’s existing non-degree offerings.

It must be clearly understood that any university issuing academic degrees without governmental accreditation is engaging in fraudulent and unethical practice. For this reason, Catholic Open University has temporarily closed admissions to all postgraduate degree programs until full governmental accreditation is obtained. Governmental recognition is an ethical and legal requirement before any academic degrees can be formally awarded.

Catholic Open University is actively pursuing national and international accreditation aligned with major global quality frameworks, including the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the European Quality Assurance Register for Higher Education (EQAR). Postgraduate degrees are expected to launch in 2028–2029, once all accreditation processes have been completed and publicly documented.

The university’s currently active programs—the Research & Publishing Program and the Honorary Doctorate Degree Award Program—are fully aligned with the scope of the private accreditation already granted. Because the Honorary Doctorate is an honorary distinction based on documented scholarly or professional contribution, and not an earned academic qualification for employment or licensure, the university’s present accreditation status is fully sufficient, ethically compliant, and institutionally appropriate for the conferral of honorary degrees.

Accreditation details and updates:
https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about

​

39. Can Catholic Open University’s honorary doctorate help my career?

An honorary doctorate is an honorary distinction, not a professional qualification, but it can strengthen a professional profile when tied to real, verifiable contributions.
Catholic Open University's honorary doctorate supports reputation-building by linking the honor to published work in the university’s Digital Library, giving employers and collaborators the ability to review documented contributions.
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

40. Why does Catholic Open University not “sell” honorary doctorates?

Selling honorary doctorates is unethical and associated with degree mills. Legitimate honorary doctorates are awarded for contributions, not purchased.
Catholic Open University requires candidates to complete the Research & Publishing Program and produce publishable work that undergoes academic review. The honorary doctorate is awarded only if the published work demonstrates exceptional merit according to the evaluation of the Academic Board and Executive Academic Council.
Research pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program

41. Can I submit multiple publications to increase my chances?

Multiple strong publications can strengthen a candidate’s profile if they demonstrate consistent contribution and impact.
Catholic Open University allows authors to submit multiple works through the Research & Publishing Program, storing approved publications in the Digital Library. The Academic Board evaluates the overall impact of all contributions when considering honorary doctorate eligibility.
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

42. Where are Catholic Open University honorary doctorates published or recorded?

Honorary doctorates are linked to the candidate’s published work in the Digital Library, which serves as the primary record of academic contribution.
Additional verification may appear in official university announcements, certificates, or institutional listings described on the Honorary Doctorate Degree Award page.
Program details: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

43. Can I lose my honorary doctorate if I misuse the title?

Yes. Misuse of an honorary doctorate—such as presenting it as an earned academic qualification or using it to obtain licenses or employment—may result in revocation.
Catholic Open University may withdraw the title if its use becomes misleading or inconsistent with the university’s ethical standards, Catholic values, or academic integrity expectations.
Ethical usage guidance: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/honorary-doctorate-degree-award
 

44. Why is publication required before the honorary doctorate evaluation?

Publication provides verifiable, public evidence of a candidate’s contribution and ensures fairness by allowing individuals worldwide to apply based on merit.
Catholic Open University evaluates candidates only after their work is published in the Digital Library, ensuring transparency and academic grounding.
Research & Publishing Program: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
Digital Library: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/publications
 

45. Why does Catholic Open University emphasize transparency and ethics in its honorary doctorate program?

Honorary degrees can be misused by institutions lacking credibility; therefore, transparency is essential to protect both recipients and the awarding institution.
Catholic Open University publishes institutional information, accreditation status, and academic mission publicly and bases all honorary doctorates on published, verifiable work. This merit-based model aligns with the university’s Catholic identity and ethical commitments.
Institutional details: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

46. Can I use the Honorary Doctorate Degree from Catholic Open University for employment, licensing, or as a professional qualification?

No. The Honorary Doctorate Degree is an honorary distinction, not an earned academic qualification, and cannot be used for employment, licensing, immigration, or admission to formal academic programs.
The honorary doctorate recognizes contribution and allows the recipient to be addressed socially and ceremonially as “Doctor (Dr.)” when transparently identified as honorary. It may be included in biographies, public profiles, presentations, and ceremonial contexts but must never replace earned credentials.
 

47. Is Catholic Open University an authentic Catholic institution?

Yes. Catholic Open University is a faith-inspired Catholic online institution rooted in Catholic intellectual tradition, ethical values, and commitment to the common good.
The university is formally verified by the World Catholic Online Education Association (WCOEA) as a trusted Catholic educational provider.
Institutional identity: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

48. What is the accreditation and verification status of Catholic Open University, and what are the plans for future governmental recognition?

Catholic Open University holds:

  • Private international accreditation from GACOL (Global Accreditation Council for Online Learning)

  • Catholic verification from WCOEA (World Catholic Online Education Association)

These recognitions fully support the university’s current offerings, including the Research & Publishing Program, Digital Library, and Honorary Doctorate Degree Award Program.
The university is actively pursuing governmental and national accreditation aligned with CHEA, EQAR, or equivalent frameworks. Postgraduate degrees are expected to launch in 2028–2029, once full accreditation is achieved.
Institutional transparency: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

49. Is the Honorary Doctorate Degree from Catholic Open University equivalent to a traditional PhD or academic doctorate?

No. The Honorary Doctorate Degree is a symbolic academic honor that recognizes exceptional contribution. It is not a PhD, not a research degree, and not suitable for academic hiring or regulated professions.
Recipients may be addressed as “Doctor (Dr.)” in honorary contexts, but must always identify the distinction as honorary.
 

50. Can the Honorary Doctorate Degree be used to enroll in a master’s or PhD program at Catholic Open University or another institution?

No. Because the honorary doctorate is not an earned academic qualification, it cannot replace a bachelor’s or master’s degree for academic admissions.
Applicants must meet the official academic requirements of the program to which they apply.

51. What payment options does Catholic Open University offer for its programs and memberships?

Catholic Open University provides flexible payment options, including:

  • Monthly payments

  • Annual payments

  • Lifetime one-time payments (where available)
    All payments are processed through a secure online gateway.
     

52. How do I access the Digital Library and my published work at Catholic Open University?

After academic approval, publications appear in the Digital Library with:

53. Do authors keep the copyright and full rights to their work when publishing with Catholic Open University?

Yes. Authors retain full copyright and all intellectual property rights.
Catholic Open University receives only non-exclusive permission to host and display the work. Authors remain free to republish or distribute their work anywhere.

54. Are publications at Catholic Open University peer-reviewed or quality controlled?

Yes. All submissions undergo structured quality control, including:

  • Editorial screening

  • Academic review

  • Plagiarism and ethics checks
    Only submissions that meet academic and ethical standards are published or considered for the Honorary Doctorate Degree Award.
     

55. When will Catholic Open University launch its online postgraduate degree programs, and what accreditation will support them?

Postgraduate programs require governmental accreditation. Catholic Open University currently holds private GACOL accreditation (Certification ID GACOL-3257, Accreditation ID 3257-001) and is pursuing governmental recognition aligned with CHEA and EQAR frameworks.
Postgraduate degrees are expected to launch in 2028–2029, once all accreditation requirements are met.
Institutional updates are published publicly: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/about
 

56. What happens if my article is not accepted for publication?

If a submission does not meet academic standards, it may be returned for revision or rejected.
Catholic Open University provides guidance through the Research & Publishing Program to help authors strengthen structure, clarity, references, and methodology. Only accepted works can be published in the Digital Library and considered for honorary doctorate evaluation.
Publishing pathway: https://www.catholicopenuniversity.org/research-publishing-program
 

57. What are the basic technical requirements to study or publish online with Catholic Open University?

Typical requirements include:

  • Stable internet connection

  • Modern computer, laptop, or tablet

  • Updated web browser

  • Personal email account

  • Webcam and microphone (if required for live sessions)
    Additional requirements may appear on specific program pages.
     

58. How can I get help if I have technical problems, questions about my application, or need academic support?

Support is available through:

  • The online contact form

  • Email support

  • WhatsApp assistance for quick inquiries
    Depending on the request, students may be directed to admissions, technical support, or academic staff.

This FAQ was developed by the Catholic Open University Academic Council and the Research & Study Center to clarify ethical and accreditation standards for honorary doctorates.

إطار الاعتماد والتحقق والنظام الأكاديمي

تعمل الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة | مركز الأبحاث والدراسات ضمن إطار أكاديمي مؤسسي يتسم بالشفافية وضمان الجودة، وبما ينسجم مع قيم التعليم العالي الكاثوليكي وأفضل الممارسات الدولية المعترف بها في مجالات التعليم العالي والبحث العلمي والنشر الأكاديمي.

الاعتماد المؤسسي والاعتراف الأكاديمي

الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة | مركز الأبحاث والدراسات معتمدة حاليًا من قبل المجلس العالمي لاعتماد التعلم عبر الإنترنت (GACOL)، وهو جهة دولية خاصة معترف بها في مجال ضمان الجودة والاعتماد الأكاديمي، ومتخصصة في مؤسسات التعليم العالي عبر الإنترنت.
رقم الشهادة: GACOL-3257  رقم الاعتماد: 3257-001

Accreditation ID 3257-001 - GACOL
GACOL
Certification ID 3257 - GACOL

كما تحظى الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة | مركز الأبحاث والدراسات باعتراف رابطة التعليم الكاثوليكي الإلكتروني العالمية (WCOEA) بوصفها مؤسسة موثوقة في تقديم التعليم العالي الكاثوليكي، وملتزمة بالمعايير الدولية للنزاهة الأكاديمية، والرسالة المؤسسية، وجودة التعليم.

WCOEA

التوافق مع أطر ضمان الجودة الأكاديمية الدولية

تعمل الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة | مركز الأبحاث والدراسات ضمن إطار اعتماد مؤسسي خاص معترف به دوليًا، وتقوم بمواءمة سياساتها الأكاديمية ونظم ضمان الجودة لديها بالاستناد إلى أطر ومعايير مرجعية معترف بها في التعليم العالي الدولي.

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وتشمل هذه الأطر المرجعية معايير وممارسات الجودة المعتمدة لدى جهات مثل مجلس اعتماد التعليم العالي (CHEA – الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية) والسجل الأوروبي لضمان جودة التعليم العالي (EQAR – أوروبا)، وذلك لأغراض الاسترشاد والمقارنة الأكاديمية فقط، دون ادعاء أي اعتماد مباشر أو اعتراف مؤسسي من قبل هذه الجهات.

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ولا يتم الإعلان عن أي اعتراف خارجي أو مواءمة رسمية إلا بعد التحقق المؤسسي الكامل والنشر الرسمي المعتمد.

وضع برامج الدراسات العليا

يجب التأكيد بوضوح على أن أي مؤسسة تدّعي منح درجات أكاديمية معترف بها رسميًا دون الحصول على التفويض القانوني والاعتراف الحكومي اللازمين ضمن الولاية القضائية المعمول بها، قد تكون منخرطة في ممارسات أكاديمية مضللة أو غير قانونية.​

وبناءً عليه، فإن برامج الدراسات العليا في الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة مغلقة مؤقتًا أمام القبول، ولن يتم فتحها إلا بعد استكمال متطلبات التفويض الحكومي وإجراءات ضمان الجودة والاعتراف الخارجي اللازمة للبرامج الأكاديمية على مستوى الدراسات العليا.

المعايير الأخلاقية لمنح الدكتوراه الفخرية

تشكل درجة الدكتوراه الفخرية تكريمًا أكاديميًا شرفيًا، ولا تمثل درجة أكاديمية مكتسبة لأغراض التوظيف أو الترخيص المهني أو الاستخدامات الأكاديمية المنظمة.
تعمل البرامج المقدمة حاليًا من قبل الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة، بما في ذلك برنامج البحث والنشر وجائزة الدكتوراه الفخرية، ضمن نطاق الاعتماد والاعتراف الأكاديمي القائم للجامعة.
تُمنح درجة الدكتوراه الفخرية حصريًا تقديرًا للإسهامات العلمية أو المهنية أو البحثية أو النشرية المتميزة، وهي ليست برنامجًا تدريسيًا، ولا يمكن شراؤها، ويتم منحها فقط بناءً على الجدارة الأكاديمية والإنجازات المنشورة الموثقة. وفي إطار النظام الأكاديمي المعتمد حاليًا، تُمنح جميع الدرجات الأكاديمية الشرفية بطريقة أخلاقية أكاديميًا، ومتوافقة قانونيًا، وشفافة، ومناسبة من الناحية المؤسسية.

يُتاح هذا الإطار للجمهور تعزيزًا للشفافية والمساءلة والنزاهة الأكاديمية.

المعايير الأخلاقية لمنح شهادات الدكتوراه الفخرية

يُعدّ أي كيان أكاديمي يقدّم الدرجات الفخرية، بما في ذلك الدكتوراه الفخرية، للبيع أو مقابل مبالغ مالية، منخرطًا في ممارسات أكاديمية غير أخلاقية ومضللة، وقد يعرّض الأفراد الذين يسعون للحصول على مثل هذه الألقاب لمخاطر جسيمة، من بينها أضرار خطيرة بالسمعة والمصداقية المهنية. فالدكتوراه الفخرية، من حيث طبيعتها الأكاديمية، لم تُنشأ ولم تُقصد أبدًا لأن تكون محل بيع أو مقابل مالي تحت أي ظرف.
 

في الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة، تُمنح جائزة الدكتوراه الفخرية حصريًا بوصفها تكريمًا أكاديميًا، وتُخصص للأفراد الذين يثبتون تميزًا استثنائيًا في النشر الأكاديمي من خلال برنامج البحث والنشر. وتهدف هذه الجائزة إلى الاعتراف بالتميّز العلمي، وتحفيز الباحثين والمهنيين على الإسهام بأبحاث ذات قيمة معرفية حقيقية، وتسليط الضوء رسميًا على إسهاماتهم الأكاديمية ضمن المكتبة الرقمية للجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة.

ولا تقوم الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة ببيع الدكتوراه الفخرية، كما لا تطلب أو تقبل أي مقابل مالي لقاء منح أي تكريم فخري. وتُفرض الرسوم فقط على المشاركة في برنامج البحث والنشر بوصفه خدمة أكاديمية متعلقة بالتأليف العلمي وتطوير القدرات البحثية. أما جائزة الدكتوراه الفخرية ذاتها، فتُمنح دون أي رسوم مباشرة أو غير مباشرة، ودون أي تكاليف خفية.
 

وانطلاقًا من هذا الالتزام الصارم بالشفافية والنزاهة الأكاديمية، تُمثل الجامعة الكاثوليكية المفتوحة مؤسسة أكاديمية موثوقة وأخلاقية في مجال منح وتكريم الدكتوراه الفخرية عبر المنصات الرقمية.

منارة تقدير تُجلّي الأثر العلمي والمهني الاستثنائي   |   تعليم بنسبة 100٪ عبر الإنترنت   |   قائم على البحث والمعرفة   |   جامعة كاثوليكية، أخلاقية، ومتاحة عالميًا

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