The degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (; DHumLitt; DHL; or LHD) is an

honorary degree An honorary degree is an academic degree for which a university (or other degree-awarding institution) has waived all of the usual requirements. It is also known by the Latin phrases ''honoris causa'' ("for the sake of the honour") or '' ad h ...

awarded to those who have distinguished themselves through humanitarian and philanthropic contributions to society. The criteria for awarding the degree differ from institution to institution; however, it is typically given to persons outside the university invited to be keynote speakers at the most important university events, or to faculty members or alumni of the institution who have, in the eyes of the institution or the wider world, distinguished themselves in some way. The flexibility in interpretation has resulted in universities awarding unique variants of the degree. For example, in 1996 Southampton College awarded

Kermit the Frog Kermit the Frog is a Muppet character created and originally performed by Jim Henson. Introduced in 1955, Kermit serves as the everyman protagonist of numerous Muppet productions, most notably ''Sesame Street'' and ''The Muppet Show'', as well ...

an honorary "doctorate of Amphibious Letters" in recognition for his contribution to children's education.

References

Doctoral degrees Honorary degrees {{education-stub