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These should always be named and abbreviated correctly with capitals and lower case as defined on the Qualifications page.

bachelors' and masters' degrees

Use a lower case 'b' or 'm', unless referring to a specific degree (e.g. Bachelor of Arts). For standardisation, the University differentiates between singular and plural nouns by the position of the apostrophe.

  • a bachelor's degree
  • a degree at master's level
  • all bachelors' degrees will be awarded
  • holders of masters' degrees

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

In most instances, use the abbreviation only.

double degree

Although technically a misnomer, this is the standard term for two degrees undertaken simultaneously, e.g. BA BCom.

honorary doctorate

A doctoral degree awarded as an honour from the University without any examination or assessment being required. Recipients of honorary degrees are listed as Honorary Graduates in the Calendar. Use lower case letters when referring to honorary doctorates in general, but capital letters for the specific honorary degree.

  • The University conferred a total of three honorary doctorates at this year's ceremonies.
  • The University will confer an Honorary Doctor of Commerce degree on one of its distinguished graduates.

honours degree

Use a lower case 'h' when referring to honours degrees in general, but capital letters when it is part of the name of the degree. No apostrophe.

  • The young man graduated with an honours degree.
  • Bachelor of Science with Honours
  • BSc(Hons)

About the Writing Style Guide

This guide is designed to help ensure writing style – whether for internal or external audiences, written for print or online – is consistent and maintains a professional standard across the University. It is not designed for academic writing.

Feedback

Please send any feedback – including reports of errors or requests for changes – to writing.style@otago.ac.nz

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