What is the ruling on boasting about an academic degree, such as a "doctorate," and is it disliked (makruh) or forbidden (haram)?

Boasting and taking pride in one's virtues and noble deeds is religiously forbidden because it is a form of arrogance, unless it is for the purpose of mentioning and speaking of God's blessings, rejoicing in them, and encouraging others towards them, all while maintaining humility; in that case, it is commendable. Examples of commendable boasting include what the Prophets and Companions said about their own virtues. However, if speaking of a blessing is done to manifest it with humility, there is no harm in it, based on the Almighty's saying: "But as for the favor of your Lord, report [it]." Scholars have also made an exception for boasting and showing off in war to intimidate the enemy.