Sir, bdanews carried in September a 'forward' foreword by the Association's Chief Executive relating to the GDC's renewed interest in the title of 'Doctor'. It surprises me that not one of our cash starved universities has seized the opportunity to recognise the successful completion of two years' post-qualification vocational training by awarding a Doctorate in Dental Practice. This would provide recognition of the vocational training, provide a UK degree equivalent in name to international practice, legitimise the use of the 'courtesy title' and provide an additional income stream for the university. It is of course a sine qua non that there should be a 'grandfather clause' that those whose post-qualification experience precedes the introduction of vocational training should be eligible.