PhD is a prestigious degree. People who worked for it are not just those in the academic world, but also celebrities. Who are the celebrities with PhD degrees?
Some celebrities with PhD are:
- Brian May
- Mayim Bialik
- Milo Aukerman
- Shaquille O’Neal
- James Franco
- Ruth Westheimer
- Peter Weller
- Miuccia Prada
In this post, we explore some of the celebrities with PhDs, and the university they graduated from. Let’s go.
Celebrities With PhD
| Celebrity | PhD Degree | University |
|---|---|---|
| Brian May | Astrophysics | Imperial College London |
| Mayim Bialik | Neuroscience | UCLA |
| Milo Aukerman | Biology | University of California, San Diego |
| Shaquille O’Neal | Education | Barry University |
| James Franco | English | Yale University |
| Ruth Westheimer | Education | Teachers College, Columbia University |
| Peter Weller | Italian Renaissance Art History | UCLA |
| Miuccia Prada | Political Science | University of Milan |
Brian May – PhD in Astrophysics from Imperial College UK
Brian May might surprise you not just as a legendary guitarist for the rock band Queen but also as a scholar in astrophysics.
He managed to earn his doctorate from Imperial College London. His studies dive deep into the cosmos beyond the bright stage lights. May’s dissertation, focusing on interplanetary dust, reveals a passion for the stars that equals his love for music.
Few fans might know that May put his academic pursuits on pause at the peak of Queen’s fame. He only to return decades later to complete his PhD. This dedication showcases a rare blend of artistic genius and scientific acumen.
Unlike the honorary degrees bestowed upon many celebrities, Brian May’s achievement required years of rigorous study and research. It’s quite the shift from the usual celebrity education narrative, with May swapping electric solos for thesis defenses.
Mayim Bialik – PhD in Neuroscience From UCLA
Mayim Bialik stands out in the realm of famous people with PhDs, not just for her acting skills but also for her impressive academic credentials.
You might recognize her from “The Big Bang Theory,” but off-screen, Bialik boasts a PhD in Neuroscience from UCLA, a feat that places her on a unique list of celebrities with doctorate degrees.
Her dissertation delved into the complexities of Prader-Willi syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder in adolescents, a topic that underscores her dedication to the field of neuroscience.
Unlike honorary doctorates that are often bestowed upon celebrities, Bialik’s achievement is the result of years of meticulous study and research.
It’s fascinating to learn that she chose to delve deep into the human brain, exploring areas that many might find daunting.
Bialik’s journey to earn her doctorate degree is especially inspiring when you consider the demands of her acting career. Balancing the rigors of neuroscience with the bright lights of Hollywood, she proves that it’s possible to pursue passions in both the arts and sciences successfully.
Milo Aukerman – PhD in Biology from UC San Diego
Milo Aukerman, the iconic frontman of the punk rock band Descendents, might surprise you with his academic pursuits off stage.
Far from the raucous energy of punk rock, Aukerman earned his PhD in Biology from the University of California, San Diego. His dissertation, a deep dive into the molecular biology of plant-pathogen interactions, is a testament to his scientific rigor and dedication.
This unique juxtaposition of punk rock ethos and scientific inquiry makes Aukerman a fascinating figure among celebrities with advanced degrees.
This duality showcases his versatility and commitment to both his passions. You might be intrigued to learn that, unlike the honorary titles bestowed upon some in the limelight, Aukerman’s doctorate is the result of genuine academic labor, reflecting his deep engagement with the field of biology.
His story offers a glimpse into the life of someone who refused to be pigeonholed, proving that the worlds of punk rock and academia can indeed coalesce.
Shaquille O’Neal – Doctorate in Education From Barry University
Shaquille O’Neal, better known as “Shaq,” is a name synonymous with NBA greatness, but what you might find surprising is his academic achievement off the court.
Beyond his towering presence in basketball, Shaquille earned a doctorate degree, not in a field related to sports, but in Education from Barry University.
This accomplishment places him among a unique list of celebrities with PhDs, showcasing a side of Shaq that goes beyond his athletic prowess.
His dissertation, which focused on the use of humor by leaders in organizational settings, offers a glimpse into Shaquille’s interest in leadership dynamics and human interaction.
Shaq’s journey to obtaining his PhD is not just inspiring but also breaks the stereotype of athletes remaining within the confines of their sports. His success in academia underscores the notion that one can excel in multiple fields with dedication and hard work.
James Franco – PhD in English From Yale
James Franco, a figure well-known in Hollywood for his roles in movies like “127 Hours” and “Pineapple Express,” also boasts an impressive academic portfolio that might surprise you.
Beyond his acting and directing credits, Franco embarked on a journey to earn his doctorate from Yale University, an endeavor that places him among the select group of celebrities who pursued rigorous academic research alongside their artistic careers.
While Franco’s doctoral focus was in English, the specific details of his dissertation remain shrouded in a bit of mystery, akin to the eclectic and often unpredictable nature of his film roles.
Franco’s academic pursuits didn’t stop at Yale; he has been known to juggle multiple degrees simultaneously, showcasing a voracious appetite for learning that rivals his prolific acting career.
His journey in academia is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge across a wide array of subjects, from creative writing at UCLA to filmmaking at NYU and even digital media at the Rhode Island School of Design.
Ruth Westheimer – Doctorate in Education From Columbia
Ruth Westheimer, widely known as Dr. Ruth, is a figure who has deftly combined her expertise in psychology with her knack for communication to become a beloved and respected sex therapist and media personality.
Beyond her candid talks on sex and relationships, Dr. Ruth holds a PhD in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Her dissertation, a profound exploration into family life, sexuality, and how they interweave, has laid the groundwork for her career as a pioneer in sex education.
Dr. Ruth’s journey to her doctorate degree is as compelling as her on-screen persona. After surviving the Holocaust and emigrating to the United States, she pursued her passion for education and psychology, culminating in her doctoral studies.
What sets Dr. Ruth apart in the list of celebrities with PhDs is her ability to translate complex psychological concepts into advice that resonates with the everyday person.
You might be surprised to learn that Dr. Ruth’s academic accomplishments extend beyond her doctorate. She has tirelessly worked to educate the public on sexual health, using her doctoral insights to foster open discussions about sexuality.
Peter Weller – PhD In Art History From UCLA
Peter Weller, perhaps best known for his iconic role as RoboCop, is not just a staple in the world of science fiction cinema; he’s also a scholar with a profound passion for history and art.
Weller earned his PhD in Italian Renaissance Art History from UCLA. This achievement might come as a surprise to fans more familiar with his on-screen persona.
His dissertation offers an insightful exploration into the world of Renaissance art, focusing on the work of the architect Alberti.
This scholarly work delves into architectural principles and applications during the Renaissance, a period that Weller has described as the “matrix of our culture.” It’s a testament to his deep engagement with the subject, far removed from the futuristic settings of his films.
His academic pursuit is not just for show; Weller has applied his expertise as a lecturer, sharing his knowledge of Renaissance art with eager students and art enthusiasts alike.
What sets Weller apart in the list of celebrities with PhDs is his academic focus and his Hollywood career. While many might associate advanced degrees with scientists or educators, Weller’s dedication to art history challenges such stereotypes.
Miuccia Prada – PhD In Political Science From University of Milan
Miuccia Prada, a name synonymous with high fashion and innovative design, has an academic background that might surprise you.
Before taking the helm of the luxury fashion house Prada, Miuccia pursued a PhD in Political Science from the University of Milan.
This aspect of her life offers a fascinating glimpse into her interests beyond the world of fashion.
You might not immediately link the study of political science with a luxury brand, but Miuccia has blended these worlds. Her designs often carry an intellectual depth, challenging conventional norms and reflecting a keen awareness of social dynamics.
Her academic background in political science has undoubtedly contributed to her distinctive approach to fashion, making her collections thought-provoking and avant-garde.
It’s intriguing to consider how her scholarly pursuits have informed her work in fashion in Prada and Miu Miu. From her doctoral studies, Miuccia likely developed attributes that are evident in her innovative designs with Prada.
Dr. JW Ong holds academic degrees, including a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from universities in New Zealand, Malaysia, and the UK. He started PhDPursuits.com as a way to share the experience he wish he would have had known before embarking on his PhD.