This is the 8420th most frequent Chinese word.
phd
The Chinese word "PhD" (博士, bóshì) refers to the highest academic degree awarded by universities, equivalent to a Doctor of Philosophy.
In this sentence, '博士' refers to the academic degree finalizing postgraduate research study, commonly referred to as a PhD.
他正在攻读博士学位。
He is pursuing a PhD degree.
In this usage, '博士' signifies the attainment of the academic level permitting one to initiate independent scholarly efforts.
获得博士学位以后，他开始了自己的研究生涯。
After obtaining a PhD, he started his research career.
Here, '博士' emphasizes the qualification designation achieved after completing the doctoral studies in philosophy.