University professor makes history with higher doctorate honour

Joining hundreds of students for the March graduation ceremonies, Reverend Professor Peter Gubi collected his higher doctorate at Chester Cathedral. It is only the third time a higher doctorate has been awarded – other than Honorary Doctorates – by the University of Chester.

Peter holds a personal Chair as Professor of Counselling and Spiritual Accompaniment in the Department of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Chester.

A higher doctorate is an exceptional award made for work of high distinction which constitutes an original, sustained and significant contribution to the advancement of knowledge, or the application of knowledge, where it establishes that the applicant is a leading international authority in the field of study concerned. The applicant’s published work must demonstrate an originality such as to have led to extension or development by others.

Peter already has a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Counselling Studies (Manchester), a Doctor of Theology (ThD) degree in Practical Theology (Winchester), and a Doctor of Ministry degree (DMin) in Ecclesiastical Pastoral Care (Chester).

He is known for his research work in the ethical integration of spiritual resources in the practice of Counselling and Psychotherapy; for his work in supporting Clergy well-being and pastoral care through Reflective Practice Groups and Pastoral Supervision; and for his work on the ethical integration of psychological and spiritual insights within the context of Spiritual Accompaniment.

His work was assessed by a number of international scholars before recommendations were made to the Conferment Committee of the Senate of the University of Chester, who bestowed the award.

Peter said: “I am grateful to the University of Chester for recognising my research work, conducted over 25 years, with a Higher Doctorate. Half of that time has been spent at the University of Chester, where my research work – which is largely outside of mainstream thinking and practice – has always been supported, valued and respected.”