what's higher a doctoral degree or a master's?

Doctoral degree.

oh okay

then what's a PhD?

Doctor of Philosophy

There are other types of doctorates: law, education, and others.
http://www.answers.com/topic/doctorate
Scroll down to read about them.

A doctoral degree is generally considered to be higher than a master's degree in the academic hierarchy. To understand this, let's explore the educational path and level of expertise for each.

A master's degree is typically obtained after completing a bachelor's degree. It signifies a higher level of specialization and expertise in a particular field. In many professions, a master's degree is considered sufficient for advanced roles and positions.

On the other hand, a doctoral degree, also known as a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) or an equivalent, is the highest level of academic achievement. It is obtained after completing a master's degree or equivalent coursework. A doctoral degree requires original research in a specific field, culminating in a dissertation or thesis. This degree is typically pursued by those who wish to contribute new knowledge to their field and pursue advanced careers in academia, research, or specialized professions.

To summarize, while both master's and doctoral degrees are valuable qualifications, a doctoral degree represents a higher level of specialization, expertise, and commitment to research in a specific field.

It is important to note that the academic hierarchy can vary in different fields and countries, and some professional degrees may hold a higher value in specific industries.