Dannii Minogue has been given an honorary doctorate for her services to the entertainment industry.

The former 'x factor' judge wore a traditional cap and gown as she accepted an honorary Doctor of Media award from Southampton's Solent University, South East England, yesterday (09.11.11) in recognition of her career achievements.

Dannii said: "I'm honoured to receive this award, it came as a complete shock."

A university spokesman said of Dannii: "Her international career stands as evidence of the personal success that can be achieved with talent, persistence and hard work.

"Dannii Minogue has made a major contribution to the entertainment industry and is an outstanding role model." 

Before receiving the honour, the mother-of-one tweeted: "On my way to collect something special and I'm so nervous!!!! (sic)"

Dannii's honorary doctorate comes just a month after sister Kylie received one of her own.

Kylie was made an honorary Doctor of Health Sciences in recognition for her work promoting breast cancer awareness.

The 'Can't Get You Out of My Head' singer - who was diagnosed with the disease in 2005 - told graduates at the ceremony: "I never went to university so my dad will be very proud when he sees the pictures.

"I am here partly for the work I do promoting breast cancer awareness.

"When you are diagnosed yourself it becomes a lot more real and you appreciate at first hand the hard work that goes on to support patients through it."