Question: is an honorary doctorate the same as a doctorate

Answer: No, An honorary degree, in Latin a degree honoris causa (``for the sake of the honor'') or ad honorem (``to the honor''), is an academic degree for which a university (or other degree-awarding institution) has waived the usual requirements, such as matriculation, residence, a dissertation and the passing of comprehensive examinations. The degree is typically a doctorate or, less commonly, a master's degree, and may be awarded to someone who has no prior connection with the academic institution or no previous postsecondary education. An example of identifying a recipient of this award is as follows: Doctorate in Business Administration (Hon. Causa).