phd why

Why Would You Want to Do a PhD?

Student perspectives on the value of a graduate degree

May 16, 2018 | Richard Z.

If you are reading this blog post, there is a good chance that you are thinking about a PhD, possibly at MIT. But MIT or not, almost every doctoral program would ask you why you are interested in their program and how it fits into your career goal. A typical answer would be:

I am interested in your PhD program because I want to do research in my area. My career goal is to become a professor at a university or research institute.

Indeed, doctoral degrees are by default the training programs for academics. You would presumably spend five years or so learning how to become a capable researcher in your academic field before applying for postdocs and eventually assistant professorships.

Things may not be so simple. The latest Doctoral Exit Survey by the MIT Career Services reveals that close to 50% of the PhD graduates in 2017 do not work in research institutes or universities immediately after graduation. Instead, they work across private and public sectors.

The “mismatch” between the program’s design to train academics and the non-academic careers pursued by many PhD graduates calls for us to revisit to the question: why on earth would you want to do a PhD? To that end, I interviewed a group of prospective, current, and graduated PhDs. The following themes popped up

Intellectual Curiosity If you are doing a PhD, you probably enjoy the subject of your program so much that you are willing to spend five or six years on it. Indeed, intellectual curiosity is common to most PhD students that I spoke with. Often it comes with little consideration to specific career choices. On this topic, Dr. F. shared his thoughts

“When I was considering my options after undergrad, the idea of getting an advanced degree and learning a topic at a deep level is very attractive to me,” said Dr. F., who got his PhD in atomic physics at MIT.

However, I asked if he had any postgraduate careers in mind when starting his PhD.

“I did not have a clear plan for what I wanted to do after graduation,” Dr. F. admitted, “But I did think that the jobs that I could pursue with an advanced degree were much more interesting than the ones with only a bachelor’s.”

After having worked at the MIT Lincoln Labs for a decade, Dr. F is now a CEO and founder of a company.

“I feel that with my PhD degree, I’ve got not only the technical tools but also enough confidence to analyze and solve the problems and deal with the unknown in my daily job.”

Non-Academic Careers It is a myth that a PhD degree only prepares you to succeed in academia. Since a doctoral program helps you develop a field specialty, it is not hard to imagine people who use their PhD training to sharpen their skills in order to work in industry. Abbas Shikari is no exception. A master’s student in mechanical engineering at MIT, he plans to extend his current program to a PhD. During our interview, he said it loud and clear,

“I would like to be a software architect for autonomous vehicles, and a PhD would help me achieve the depth of knowledge necessary to becoming a strong contributor to the field of robotics and self-driving cars.”

Formerly a supply chain manager at Fitbit, Abbas nonetheless grew unhappy with the business path that the position put him on.

“My daily job involved lots of email exchanges and small managerial tasks, and I found them quite boring,” said Abbas, “after speaking with the Fitbit engineers, I found robotics to be very interesting and technically challenging.”

“Robotics and autonomous vehicles are about to get into every aspect of our lives. I want to ride the next wave of the robotics, maturing the industry and making it more accessible to everyone. To do that I need acquire sufficient technical skills, and a PhD is my best bet.”

Feeling like the Only Choice Sometimes, pursuing a PhD can seem to be the only available choice after undergrad.

Clubs is a current PhD student at Harvard Medical School. Already featured in my previous article , she happily accepted my second interview, this time on why she pursued PhD.

“Graduate school was kind of a choice by default for me,” said Clubs, “I did not really explore different career options in undergrad. So close to graduation, I didn’t know what kind of jobs were out there for me.”

“I also didn’t feel the urge to join the workforce after my bachelor’s study, maybe because I was young and naïve,” said Clubs jokingly. “At the same time, all of my friends were studying for the GRE and applying for US graduate school. So I just followed suit. Later I got into Harvard, which was the best outcome I could have hoped for.”  

During her time at Harvard, Clubs actively tried out different careers, including venture capital, biotech, and management consulting. Currently, she is interning in Shanghai at the Boston Consulting Group, one of the world’s premium consultancy firms.

“The flexibility of my PhD program leaves me lots of room for other stuff, and I did take the luxury of time to figure out exactly what I want to do with my life.”

So why do you want to pursue a PhD? I should note that I am not issuing personal judgments on anything or anyone above. After all, everyone has his or her own personal reason to pursue a doctoral degree as well as a unique expectation out of the program experience. What I’d like to mention is: it is one thing to convince the admission committees that you are a good PhD candidate, but it’s another to convince yourself that starting a doctoral program represents your best professional, intellectual, and personal interest.

So why do you want to pursue a PhD?

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The best answers to “Why do you want to do a PhD?”

If you are interviewing for a PhD position, chances are high that you will be asked about your motivation to do a PhD. And sometimes, simple questions are the hardest to answer. Therefore, it is smart to prepare an excellent response to this question in advance.

Creating your unique answer to “Why do you want to do a PhD?”

Reasons to do a PhD are as diverse as PhD topics and PhD programmes: there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

While this diversity is a good thing, the lack of clarity on what a good answer to the question “Why do you want to do a PhD?” constitutes, makes it particularly daunting.

And indeed, this question should not be taken lightly:

A convincing response during a PhD application interview increases your chance of securing the position: it clarifies your ambition and can leave a memorable impression.

To impress your interviewers with an answer, preparation is key. The first step is to reflect on your personal ‘why’:

Write down everything that comes to your mind. Your notes could include words like “ curiosity” , and short sentences such as “ to be able to become a professor in the future” but also honest reflections such as “ I want to be able to call myself Dr”.

The next step is to sort your notes, select the answers you want to highlight, and frame your response.

The following categories are some of the best to frame your unique answer to the question:

• scientific curiosity
• societal or environmental ambitions
• self-development
• (academic) career prospects.

You may also like: The best answers to “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”

Doing a PhD to satisfy your scientific curiosity

Curiosity is one of the key qualities of successful postgraduate students . Hence, answers to “Why do you want to do a PhD?” that centre around ambitions to satisfy your scientific curiosity are usually appreciated during PhD interviews.

There are different ways to emphasise your scientific curiosity. For instance, you could explain how a specific topic caught your interest. For example by reading the work of a specific scholar, following a course, or listening to a talk.

You could also mention previous research that you did (for instance in a bachelor’s or master’s thesis), which aroused your curiosity to dig deeper and find out more.

For all answers framed by scientific curiosity, make sure to highlight a lack of knowledge and open questions that you would like to answer by doing a PhD. And don’t just say “ I find it interesting “. Be concrete!

Doing a PhD because of your societal or environmental ambitions

Many people connect their answers to “Why do you want to do a PhD?” to societal or environmental ambitions. And for a reason: These answers can be very powerful!

Societal ambitions could be, for instance, to eradicate a specific infectious disease, combat child poverty or increase female participation in the labour market. Environmental ambitions could be, for instance, to reduce CO2 emissions, tackle plastic pollution or protect an endangered species.

When you are preparing your unique response, and want to connect it to societal or environmental ambitions, make sure to provide some details and make it personal.

You can, for instance, tell a short personal story about why you find something important. Did you have a life-changing experience? Or do you maybe know someone who has been affected by a societal shortcoming?

Doing a PhD for self-development

If you are motivated to do a PhD because of societal or environmental ambitions, good for you. But if you don’t, there is also no need to worry!

You don’t need to have ambitions to save the world or win a Nobel prize as a prerequisite to doing a PhD. There is nothing wrong with answering the question “Why do you want to do a PhD?” by focusing on yourself.

On the contrary, openness and a drive to improve yourself and learn new skills are highly valued by PhD supervisors. Thus, self-development can be another good framework for your answer.

You can emphasise your ambition for self-development by mentioning specific things you want to learn, or skills you want to acquire or improve. Create a short backstory with a rationale. In that way, your interviewers will easily understand what you want to develop and why you think a PhD programme is a right place to do so.

Doing a PhD to improve your (academic) career prospects

Another legitimate reason for wanting to do a PhD is your professional goals. These goals can involve a career within academia, or outside of academia. (Both have valid advantages and disadvantages .)

Ambitions to work within academia are more straightforward to explain. For example, in most cases, you simply need a PhD to secure a lecturer position or professorship.

If you don’t have ambitions to climb the academic ladder, but still think that doing a PhD will improve your career prospects, please go ahead! Just make sure to sufficiently substantiate your reasons, as your interviewer may not be familiar with, for instance, certain job requirements outside of academia.

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Why get a phd 5 good reasons (and a few bad ones), published by steve tippins on february 3, 2019 february 3, 2019.

Last Updated on: 30th August 2022, 04:48 am

Why get a PhD? There are many reasons to get a PhD; some personal, some professional. We are all driven by our own unique needs and desires, and each of us will have different reasons for wanting to pursue a scholarly path.

However, considering the cost of a PhD and the substantial time and energy it takes to get one, it’s important to be crystal clear on your reasons for getting a PhD. Impressing your parents is great, but is it worth a quarter million dollars ?

So why get a PhD? I’ve noticed that there are several main reasons to get a PhD that drive most aspiring scholars.

Reasons to Get a PhD

Teaching is one of the best–and most common–reasons to get a PhD. Being of service to the intellectual development of young people is an honorable task. A PhD is required to teach at many colleges, since it is thought that those with a PhD have broad and deep knowledge on a subject. For accreditation purposes, colleges need their professors to have PhDs.

Unfortunately, many PhD programs offer little if any training on how to teach. So, if you want to teach, you should make sure you learn something about teaching itself while becoming an expert in your field. Find ways to educate yourself about the craft of teaching so that you can serve your students well. You’ll be glad you did when you step into a classroom for the first time .

• You get to teach
• You can help people reach their goals
• You may have to learn on the fly
• You will have to work on the craft of teaching separately from your degree, unless you’re getting a doctorate in education

Doing research is also a common answer to the question, “Why get a PhD?” In fact, graduate school programs are usually tailored more towards research as a focus. Much of the process of getting a PhD is learning how to do research in a particular field. You read a great deal to see what has been done and take a number of classes learning how to do research and use an academic voice. Finally, your dissertation –the key to your being given the honor of “PhD” in your title–is an assessment of your ability to conduct and report research effectively. If you want to get into research and add to the body of knowledge in a field, then a PhD is a great way to do so.

• You get to dig deep into an area that interests you
• You may make discoveries that help people
• It can take a long time to get results
• Your interests may change over time

High-Level Administrative Jobs

Most school presidents, deans, etc. come from the ranks of professors–those with PhDs. So, if administration is where you want to be, then pursuing a PhD may be the route for you. Be aware that administrative positions require more of a time commitment than teaching and you may greatly reduce the opportunities that you have to teach or do research. However, if this sounds like the ideal career path for you, it may be a good reason to get a PhD.

• You can be part of making changes
• You can advance your career
• Many meetings
• Some administrative jobs have heavy fundraising expectations

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Jobs Outside of Academia

Getting a better job is one reason many people cite in answer to the question “Why get a PhD?” Holding a PhD has caché. It can sound nice in the workplace to hold a PhD, but outside of the academic system, I can’t think of many positions where holding a PhD gives you a significant advantage over others. If you have a specific career in mind that you know requires having a PhD, that may be a good enough reason. However, I discourage people from getting a PhD with the idea that it’s their ticket to any job they want without having a clear notion of what that job actually is.

• Potential to make more money
• Increased level of influence
• More structured workplace
• Less vacation time

Ego Gratification

Some people, for various reasons, want to get a PhD for the sake of having one. Getting a PhD is quite an accomplishment, and it comes with the added bonus of people calling you “doctor.” (Interestingly, after someone gets a masters degree do we call them master?). And truly, there’s nothing wrong with getting your degree for ego-related reasons, whether that’s a desire to “be on top” or a way of striving to match the image of who you feel you should be.

That said, it’s important to be aware of your reasons for getting a PhD and examine them. Being honest with yourself about your motivation allows you to make a more informed decision, rather than falling into the trap of spending lots of money on something that won’t truly bring fulfillment. Know what your real reasons for getting a PhD are, and make an informed decision from there.

• Feeling of accomplishment
• Being respected
• If the root causes for the need to impress are left unexamined, this accomplishment can only lead to a greater sense of emptiness
• If the ego satisfaction motive is not strong enough, there is a real risk of not finishing, which can have negative consequences for the ego

Why Get a PhD? Final Thoughts

There are many reasons to get a PhD. Take some time to think about what drives you towards this degree so that you can answer the question, “why get a PhD?” honestly and accurately for yourself. Whether you want to teach or just prove your third grade teacher wrong, knowing what drives you can help you through any lulls and difficulties that you may experience. And, if you do go for a PhD, use every resource that you can to finish as quickly as possible and reach your reach your goal.

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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What is a PhD and Why Should YOU do one?

In the UK, a PhD stands for ‘Doctor of Philosophy’, sometimes referred to as a ‘doctorate’. It is the highest level of degree that a student can achieve. At some institutions, including Oxford University, a Doctor of Philosophy is known as a DPhil. It is distinct from professional doctorates such as an Engineering Doctorate (EngD).

Entry requirements

An undergraduate degree is a minimum requirement and many will also require a master’s degree (such as an MA, MSc or MRes). Some scholarships will be on a 1+3 basis, which is one year of a master’s plus three years of PhD funding.

How to apply for a PhD

Prospective students are usually expected to submit a research proposal to the department they wish to undertake their study in. Some departments will encourage students to discuss their ideas with an academic working in that field first. The proposal will outline what they intend their research to investigate, how it relates to other research in their field and what methods they intend to use to carry out their research. Some PhD’s however, particularly in the sciences, are advertised as studentships where the research aims are more prescriptive.

How long is the course?

A PhD usually lasts three years (four for a New Route PhD – see below), or rather, any available funding usually lasts for that time. Students may be able to take extra time in order to complete their thesis but this will usually be at their own expense. For part-time, self-funded students, it can take up to seven years.

What’s involved

A PhD usually culminates in a dissertation of around 80,000-100,000 words , based on research carried out over the course of their study. The research must be original and aim to create new knowledge or theories in their specialist area, or build on existing knowledge or theories. Many departments initially accept students on an MPhil basis and then upgrade them to PhD status after the first year or two, subject to satisfactory progress. Students who are not considered to be doing work appropriate for the level can instead submit a shorter thesis and gain an MPhil.

There is little taught element, students are expected to work independently, supported by their department and a supervisor. There may be seminars to attend and/or lab work to complete, depending on the subject. During their study, students will try and get academic papers published and present their work at conferences, which will allow them to get feedback on their ideas for their dissertation.

New Route PhD

Introduced in 2001, the New Route PhD is a four-year programme that combines taught elements, including professional and transferable skills, with the student’s research. There are now hundreds of doctoral students studying a variety of subjects at a consortium of universities across the UK.

Career prospects for PhD Students

PhD graduates who go on to work in academia usually start off by undertaking postdoctoral research and then a fellowship or lectureship. Other career options will depend on what the PhD was in – commercial research is an option for some, and many are able to use their specialist knowledge and research skills in areas of business and finance.   

For a real insight into what it’s like to study at PhD level, see our vlog series ,  where we have invited students at various stages of their PhD and locations to film themselves over a month and share their videos with you.

Why do a PhD?

If you are considering doing one make sure that you do it with a purpose. Do one because you want to and know why you want to do it and have a clear idea of what  it could lead to .  How is doing a PhD going to help you achieve what you want to in your future?

Reasons to do a PhD.

• It’ll be good for your career. No one expects you to have your whole career plan mapped out when you start a PhD, but having some ideas of where you want to get to can be useful. Be aware though that you may not get the career benefits of a PhD straight away.
• You want to be an expert in a particular area of your subject. If you complete a PhD you will be. No-one, not your supervisor, not your external examiner at the end of your PhD, no-one, will know more about the subject you researched than you do.
• You want to achieve something. You want to work hard and demonstrate a passion for your subject and show how much time and effort you put in and how motivated you are.
• Showing your ability to motivate yourself is one of many skills you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers after doing a PhD, which is  handy for entering a competitive job market .

Reasons not to do a PhD.

• Don’t do it just because your degree research project supervisor asked you if you wanted to do one with them. If you wanted to do one and it’s in an area that interests you then great, go for it. If you hadn’t thought about doing one before they asked, and you’re not sure why you want to do one, make sure you work that out before saying yes to them.
• Don’t do it because you don’t know what else to do. Many people do a PhD because they don’t know what else to do and think it will give them time to work that out. Doing a PhD is a huge commitment, at least 3-4 years of your life, and hard work, so before you take one on, make sure you understand why.
• And do it because YOU want to, not because your family, or others expect it of you, or because your family or friends are doing one, or have done one. Make it your decision, not someone else’s.

Why Should YOU Do A PhD?

It is your decision to commit to a significant period of time and work and it needs to be something you approach positively and with enthusiasm but also with realism about the pros and cons of undertaking original research.

Who does a PhD?

The idea of the “perpetual student”, i.e. someone who stays on after an undergraduate and/or masters degree, to do a PhD, is perhaps a traditional view of PhDs. Some of you reading this will fall into the category of those who work through the tiers of higher education in this sequential fashion (it does not necessarily make you a “perpetual student” though!). The PhD population today is very diverse and not made up entirely of 21 to 25-year-olds who have stayed in educational settings for the majority of their lives. Others may be considering a return to education in order to change your career or as part of your professional development within an existing career. Some of you may be considering coming to study in the UK independently or with support from an organisation in your home country. Whatever your situation it is very important that you take time to recognise and understand why you are making this commitment and what it entails.

Let us move to the positives of why YOU should do a Ph.D. Broadly, the positive reasons can be classified into:

You WANT to or You NEED to

Some academic colleagues were asked to give reasons why someone should do a PhD and all came back with statements that had the word “passion” in them. This is having a real passion for your subject and an area of it that you want to investigate further. My colleagues also offered some interesting comments on the reality of making a decision to do a PhD even when you have this passion. Some commented on the need to consider doing the right PhD for you and not just any PhD, and I think it is important that you take this seriously as it can be dangerous to compromise too far and embark on research that you are not interested in just because it will lead to a PhD.

Academic colleagues also wanted you to look ahead and consider where your PhD may take you. Do you want to continue in an academic career or apply for jobs in industry or other organisations where a PhD is a requirement or will help you to work at a different level? Interestingly, research on the career intentions of students, undertaken by Vitae revealed that less than one-third had firm career ideas even in the latter stages of their Ph.D. This statistic is concerning as it may mean that PhD students miss opportunities to add to their range of experience. You don’t need to have an exact career plan in place at the start of your Ph.D., but doing research on where it may take you is valuable. For those already in a career and undertaking a PhD as part of their professional development, or those who are viewing a PhD as part of a career change into academia, they should also look ahead and ensure that plans for the future are realistic and achievable.

A decision to undertake a PhD involves the same steps as any other career decision, you need to find out as much as possible about what a Ph.D. really involves. Alongside considering where your passions lie and where they might lead to, you need to research such things as:

• The working environment and how you will adapt to any differences with your current situation
• Working with a supervisor
• What funding is available and what it covers, i.e. fees only or fees and living costs?
• Most importantly what behaviours, skills and experiences YOU have that will make you a successful and productive researcher

These points and others are covered in more detail in 7 Ph.D Application Tips .

Find your PhD here

For further PhD tips see:

What Can You Do With a PhD?

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Reader Interactions

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20th August 2020 at 12:31 am

Excellent article. I am know more motivate to get a scholorship for my PHD program. I have to enhance my all effort because it’s not easy to get a fully funded, require more effort and time taken.

10th March 2022 at 9:58 am

Good morning,

Hope are well? I am thinking of gong for PHD. In any UK universities. Hope to hear from you soonest.

10th March 2022 at 1:08 pm

Cool, thanks for your advice. It’s an inspiration to let my “passion” be abroad. Best for you.

9th November 2022 at 8:33 pm

This article is timely and so educative. I’m now better informed on how to make a decision on going for my PhD. Thanks a lot.

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5 Reasons to Study a PhD

21 st February 2020

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A PhD is both financially draining and incredibly challenging. Lasting for 3 – 4 years (depending upon your subject matter) the percentage of students who start their qualification and either fail or drop out is significantly higher than any other postgraduate course.

However, there are plenty of reasons to study a PhD that outweigh those potential downsides. Here's five of them...

1) Make a Contribution Towards Your Chosen Field

Many students who pursue a PhD, do so because they are passionate about a specific subject, and want to use their research time to make important discoveries within that field.

One of the great things about your PhD is that you will be able to conduct your own research. If your thesis and your findings are strong and relevant, other experts within your chosen area of academia will reference your work and your discoveries when teaching future students.

2) Long-term Career Goals

Some students who pursue a PhD, do so in order to pursue their long-term degree goals.  For those looking to pursue a career in academia, then a PhD is an essential qualification which will allow them to both continue their research, and to teach University students. Those wishing to pursue a career within this field should try and gain teaching practice throughout their PhD by giving lectures and seminars to first year undergraduates.

Many PhD graduates who are lucky enough to be sponsored to do their course go on to find employment with the companies that funded them.  Similarly, the analytical and research skills learnt on a PhD course are highly transferable to other industries.

3) Improving and Challenging Knowledge

Some minds are just curious and for these people, studying for a PhD will feel like a natural next step. Unlike undergraduate and Master’s qualifications, the PhD program will be less structured and so students will be encouraged to research topics that are of specific interest to them.

4) Enjoyment of the Subject Matter

Again, many students study for a PhD simply because they are passionate about the subject and want to explore that passion.

Although contact hours are minimal, the PhD is a very intense course and you will be living and breathing your research and thesis for at least 3 years - so make sure you enjoy it before you commit.

5) Demonstration of Intellectual Potential

One thing a PhD course will do is separate the good academics from the fantastic ones. It not only demonstrates an individual’s ability to conduct independent research, but also showcases their in-depth knowledge in a specific subject area. Within the world of academia this is essential.

NEXT: Search for PhD courses

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What is a PhD? Advice for PhD students

How long does it take to get a doctorate degree how do you get into grad school are you qualified to do a phd answers to these questions and more.

What is a PhD?

A PhD, which stands for “doctor of philosophy”, is the most advanced academic degree. It’s earned through extensive research on a specific topic, demonstrating expertise and contributing new knowledge to the field.

What does “PhD” mean?

The term “PhD” is often used as a synonym for any doctoral-level qualification. Doctorate degrees can often be split into two categories: MPhil and PhD.

An MPhil is similar to a PhD as it includes a research element (which is usually shorter and less in-depth than a PhD thesis, and often more akin to a dissertation undertaken at undergraduate or master’s level). 

MPhil students focus more on interpreting existing knowledge and theory and critically evaluating other people’s work rather than producing their own research. The precise nature and definition of an MPhil can vary among institutions and countries. 

A PhD, meanwhile, follows a more widely known and traditional route and requires students, often referred to as “candidates”, to produce their own work and research on a new area or topic to a high academic standard.

PhD requirements vary significantly among countries and institutions. The PhD, once completed, grants the successful candidate the title of “doctor of philosophy”, also called PhD or DPhil.

What is a professional doctorate?

A professional doctorate is a kind of degree that helps people become experts in their fields. Instead of focusing mainly on theory and research like a regular PhD, a professional doctorate is all about practical skills and knowledge.

This kind of doctorate is great for students who want to get better at their jobs in areas like teaching, healthcare, business, law or psychology. The courses and projects in these programmes are designed to tackle real problems you might face at work.

For example, you might have heard of the doctor of education (EdD), doctor of business administration (DBA), doctor of psychology (PsyD) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP). These programmes combine learning, hands-on projects and sometimes a thesis paper or essay to show you’re skilled at solving on-the-job challenges.

How long does it take to study a PhD?

The time required to complete a PhD can vary significantly based on several factors. Generally, a full-time PhD programme takes around three to six years to finish. However, it’s important to take into account individual circumstances and the nature of the research involved.

1. Full-time vs. part-time: If you’re studying full-time, dedicating most of your time to your studies, it usually takes about three to four years to complete a PhD. However, studying part-time while managing other commitments might extend the duration. Part-time PhDs can take around six to eight years, and sometimes even longer.

2. Nature of research: The complexity of your research proposal can influence the time required. Certain research questions may involve intricate experiments, extensive data collection or in-depth analysis, potentially leading to a longer completion timeline.

3. Field of study: The subject area you’re researching can also affect the necessary time. Some fields, such as sciences or engineering, might involve more hands-on work, while theoretical subjects might require more time for literature review and analysis.

4. Supervision and support: The guidance and availability of your academic supervisor can affect the pace of your research progress. Regular meetings and effective communication can help keep your studies on track.

5. Thesis writing: While the research phase is crucial, the stage of writing your thesis is equally significant. Organising and presenting your research findings in a clear and cohesive manner can take several months.

6. External commitments: Personal commitments, such as work, family or health-related factors, can influence your study time. Some students need to balance these alongside their PhD studies, potentially extending the duration.

7. External Funding: The availability of funding can also affect your study duration. Some funding might be linked to specific project timelines or research objectives.

So, although a PhD usually takes between three and six years of full-time study, with potential variations based on research complexity, enrolment as part-time or full-time, field of study and personal circumstances. It’s vital to have a realistic understanding of these factors when planning your PhD journey.

How long is a PhD in the UK?

In the UK, the length of a PhD programme typically ranges from three to four years of full-time study. As explained above, there are many factors to consider.

How long is a PhD in the US?

Similarly to the UK, in the United States, the duration of a PhD programme can vary widely depending on the field of study, research topic and individual circumstances. On average, a full-time PhD programme in the US typically takes between five and six years to complete.

Why does it take longer to study a PhD in the US?

PhD programmes generally take longer to complete in the US than in the UK due to various factors in the education systems and programme structures of each country:

1. Programme structure: UK PhD programmes often emphasise early, focused research from the first year, leading to shorter completion times. In contrast, US programmes commonly include more initial coursework in your first and second year and broader foundational training, which can extend the overall duration.

2. Course work requirements: Many US PhD programmes require a lot of course work, which can lengthen the time needed to finish. UK programmes tend to have fewer or no course work demands, allowing students to concentrate primarily on research skills.

3. Research funding: In the UK, PhD funding is often awarded with specific timeframes in mind, motivating completion of the research degree in the agreed duration. In the US, funding approaches can vary, requiring students to secure funding from multiple sources, potentially affecting their progress and completion time.

4. Teaching responsibilities: Some US PhD students take on teaching roles as part of their funding, dividing their time and potentially prolonging their studies.

5. Research approach: Differences in research methodologies and project scopes can affect the time needed for data collection, experimentation and analysis.

6. Academic culture: The US education system values a well-rounded education, including coursework and comprehensive exams. This can extend the time before full-time research begins. UK PhD programmes often prioritise independent research early on.

7. Part-time and work commitments: US PhD candidates might have more flexibility for part-time work or other commitments, which can affect research progress.

8. Dissertation requirements: US PhD programmes generally include a longer and more comprehensive dissertation, involving more chapters and a broader exploration of the research topic.

These variations in programme structures, funding models and academic cultures contribute to the differing completion times between the two countries.

What qualifications do you need for a PhD?

To be eligible for a PhD programme, certain educational qualifications are generally expected by universities. These qualifications serve as indicators of your readiness to engage in advanced research and contribute to the academic community.

First, an undergraduate or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is typically the most common requirement. This degree provides you with a foundational understanding of the subject and introduces you to basic research methodologies. It serves as a starting point for your academic journey.

Do you need a master’s degree to get into a PhD programme?

In addition to an undergraduate degree, many PhD programmes also require candidates to hold postgraduate or master’s degrees, often in fields related to the intended PhD research. A master’s degree offers a deeper exploration of the subject matter and enhances your research skills. Possessing a master’s degree signifies a higher level of expertise and specialisation.

The combination of both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees demonstrates a solid academic background. This background is crucial before you engage in doctoral study because pursuing a PhD involves more than just knowledge; it requires advanced research abilities, critical thinking and the capacity to provide an original contribution and new insights into the chosen field of study.

While these qualifications are usually requested, there are exceptions. Some institutions offer direct-entry programmes that encompass bachelor’s, master’s and PhD degrees in a streamlined structure. This approach is often seen in scientific and engineering disciplines rather than humanities.

In exceptional cases, outstanding performance during undergraduate studies, coupled with a well-defined research proposal, might lead to direct entry into a PhD programme without requiring a master’s degree.

Admission requirements can vary between universities and programmes. Some institutions might have more flexible prerequisites, while others could have more stringent criteria. Make sure that you thoroughly research all admission requirements of the PhD programmes you’re interested in to ensure you provide the right information.

Are PhD entry requirements similar in other countries?

PhD entry requirements in Canada and Australia can be somewhat similar to those in the UK and the US, but there are also some differences. Just like in the UK and the US, having a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree is a common way to qualify for a PhD in Canada and Australia. However, the exact rules can vary, such as how much research experience you need or the grades you should have.

In Canada and Australia, as in the UK and the US, international students usually need to show their English language skills through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. And, like in other places, you might need to give a research proposal to explain what you want to study for your PhD.

But remember, even though there are some similarities, each country has its own rules.

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How much does it cost to study a PhD?

The cost of pursuing a PhD can vary significantly between international and home (domestic) students, and it depends on the country, university and programme you choose.

United Kingdom (UK)

Home students in the UK often pay lower tuition fees compared with international students. Home students might also have access to government funding or subsidised tuition rates.

International students typically pay higher tuition fees, which can vary widely depending on the university and programme. Fees can range from around £10,000 to £25,000 or more per year.

United States (US)

PhD programme costs in the US can be quite high, especially for international students. Public universities often have lower tuition rates for in-state residents compared with out-of-state residents and international students.

Private universities in the US generally have higher tuition fees, and international students might be charged higher rates than domestic students.

Canadian universities often charge higher tuition fees for international students compared with domestic students.

Some universities offer funding packages that include tuition waivers and stipends for both domestic and international doctoral students.

In Australia, domestic students (Australian citizens and permanent residents) usually pay lower tuition fees than international students.

International students in Australia might have higher tuition fees, and costs can vary based on the university and programme.

Apart from tuition fees, other aspects play a role in the overall financial consideration:

PhD studentship: Many universities offer PhD studentships that provide financial support to research students, covering both tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.

Stipend and housing: Stipends are designed to cover living expenses. Stipend amounts can vary depending on the university and location. If you’re studying in London in the UK, stipends might be higher to account for the higher living costs in the city. Some universities also offer subsidised or affordable housing options for doctoral students.

Tuition and stipend packages: Some PhD programmes provide funding packages that include both tuition waivers and stipends. These packages are to help relieve the financial burden on students during their doctoral studies.

Research the financial support options provided by the universities you’re interested in to make an informed decision about the cost of your PhD journey.

What funding options are available for PhD candidates?

PhD candidates have various funding options available to support their studies and research journeys. Some of these options include:

PhD scholarships: Scholarships are a common form of financial aid for PhD candidates. They are awarded based on academic merit, research potential or other specific criteria. Scholarships can cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses.

Bursaries: Bursaries are another form of financial assistance offered to students, including PhD candidates, based on financial need. They can help cover tuition fees or provide additional financial support.

In the UK, specific funding options are available:

Regional consortium: Some regions have research consortiums that offer funding opportunities for doctoral candidates. These collaborations can provide financial support for research projects aligned with specific regional needs.

UK research institute: Research councils in the UK often offer stipends to PhD candidates. These stipends cover living expenses and support research work.

University-based studentship: Many UK universities offer studentships. You can read more about these above.

In the USA, there are also funding options available:

Research assistantships (RAs): Many universities offer research assistantships where PhD candidates work on research projects under the guidance of faculty members. In exchange, they receive stipends and often have their tuition waived.

Teaching assistantships (TA): Teaching assistantships involve assisting professors in teaching undergraduate courses. In return, PhD candidates receive stipends and sometimes tuition remission.

Fellowships: Fellowships are competitive awards that provide financial support for PhD candidates. They can come from universities, government agencies, private foundations and other institutions. Fellowships can cover tuition, provide stipends and offer research or travel funds.

Graduate assistantships: Graduate assistantships include a range of roles, from research and teaching to administrative support. These positions often come with stipends and sometimes include tuition benefits.

External grants and fellowships: PhD candidates can apply for grants and fellowships from external organisations and foundations that support research careers in specific fields. Examples include the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Fulbright Programme.

Employer sponsorship: In some cases, employers might sponsor employees to pursue PhDs, especially if the research aligns with the company’s interests.

You can read about the current available scholarships for international students of all education levels on our website .

What does a PhD Involve?

How does a PhD work?

A PhD includes thorough academic research and significant contributions to your chosen field of study. The timeline for completing a PhD can significantly vary based on the country, college or university you attend and the specific subject you study.

The duration of a PhD programme can vary based on factors such as the institution’s requirements and the academic discipline you’re pursuing. For instance, the timeline for a PhD in a science-related field might differ from that of a humanities discipline.

UK PhD timeline example

Looking at a typical PhD degree in a London higher education institution, we can consider this example timeline.

In the initial year of your PhD, you’ll collaborate closely with your designated academic supervisor. This collaboration involves refining and solidifying your research proposal, which lays the foundation for your entire doctoral journey.

This is also the time to establish a comprehensive plan, complete with well-defined milestones and deadlines. A crucial aspect of this year is conducting an extensive literature review, immersing yourself in existing academic works to understand the landscape of your chosen research area. It’s important to make sure that your research idea is original and distinct from prior studies.

As you begin the second year, you’ll actively collect data and gather information related to your research topic. Simultaneously, you’ll initiate the process of crafting your thesis. This involves combining your research findings and analysis into sections of your thesis document.

This is also the phase where you might have opportunities to share your research insights at academic meetings, conferences or workshops. Depending on the programme, you might even engage in teaching activities. Some PhD candidates also begin contributing to academic journals or books, showcasing their findings to a broader audience.

The third year of a PhD programme often marks the final stage of your research efforts. This is when you dedicate substantial time to writing and finalising your complete thesis. Once your thesis is completed to the highest standard, you’ll submit it for thorough evaluation.

A significant milestone in the third year is the viva voce, an oral examination where you’ll defend your thesis before a panel of experts in your field. The viva voce is an opportunity to showcase your deep understanding of your research and defend your findings.

Why should you do a PhD?

For many people, acquiring a doctorate degree is the pinnacle of academic achievement, the culmination of years of commitment to higher education.

However, the act of pursuing a PhD can be a complex, frustrating, expensive and time-consuming exercise. But with the right preparation, some sound advice and a thorough understanding of the task at hand, your years as a doctoral student can be some of the most rewarding of your life. 

People choose to work towards a doctorate for many reasons. If you are looking to pursue an academic position, such as university lecturer or researcher, then a PhD is usually required.

Many people obtain a PhD as part of a partnership with an employer, particularly in scientific fields such as engineering, where their research can prove useful for companies.

In some cases, however, PhDs are simply down to an individual’s love of a subject and their desire to learn more about their field.

What are some benefits of studying a PhD?

Pursuing a PhD can have many benefits that extend beyond academic achievement, encompassing personal growth, professional advancement and meaningful contributions to knowledge.

One of the most notable benefits of a PhD is the potential for tenure in academia. Attaining tenure provides a level of job security that allows you to delve into long-term research projects and make enduring contributions to your field. It signifies a stage where you can explore innovative ideas and pursue in-depth research, fostering your academic legacy.

While not obligatory, the opportunity to collaborate on research projects with your supervisor is another valuable aspect of a PhD pursuit. These collaborations might even come with financial compensation, offering real-world experience, skill development and practical applications of your research. Engaging in such collaborations can enrich your research portfolio and refine your research methodologies.

A pivotal aspect of a PhD journey is the chance to publish your original research findings. By disseminating your work in academic journals or presenting it at conferences, you contribute to the expansion of knowledge within your field. These publications establish your expertise and reputation among peers and researchers worldwide, leaving a lasting impact.

The pursuit of a PhD can provide a unique platform to build a diverse network of colleagues, mentors and collaborators. Engaging with fellow researchers, attending conferences and participating in academic events offer opportunities to make valuable connections. This network can lead to collaborations, expose you to a spectrum of perspectives and pave the way for future research endeavours.

What is a PhD thesis? And what is a PhD viva?

A PhD thesis will be produced with help from an academic supervisor, usually one with expertise in your particular field of study. This thesis is the backbone of a PhD, and is the candidate’s opportunity to communicate their original research to others in their field (and a wider audience).  PhD students also have to explain their research project and defend their thesis in front of a panel of academics. This part of the process is often the most challenging, since writing a thesis is a major part of many undergraduate or master’s degrees, but having to defend it from criticism in real time is arguably more daunting.  This questioning is known as a “viva”, and examiners will pay particular attention to a PhD’s weaknesses either in terms of methodology or findings. Candidates will be expected to have a strong understanding of their subject areas and be able to justify specific elements of their research quickly and succinctly.

In rare cases, students going for a PhD may instead be awarded an MPhil if the academic standard of their work is not considered fully up to par but still strong enough to be deserving of a qualification.

Can you do a PhD part time? 

Many PhD and MPhil candidates choose to pursue their qualification part time, in order to allow time to work and earn while studying. This is especially true of older students, who might be returning to academia after working for a few years. 

When applying, you should always speak to the admissions team at your university to ensure this is possible and then continue to work with your supervisor to balance all your commitments. 

Can I do a PhD through distance learning?

This is something else that you will need to check with your university. Some institutions offer this option, depending on the nature of your research. 

You will need to be clear how many times you will need to travel to your university to meet with your supervisor throughout your PhD. 

Your PhD supervisor

Choosing the right PhD supervisor is essential if you want to get the most out of your PhD. Do your research into the faculty at the institution and ensure that you meet with your proposed supervisor (either virtually or in person) before fully committing. 

You need to know that not only do they have the right expertise and understanding of your research but also that your personalities won’t clash throughout your PhD. 

Remember, to complete your PhD, you will need a strong support network in place, and your supervisor is a key part of that network. 

Coping with PhD stress

If you do decide to embark on a doctorate, you may well encounter stress and anxiety. The work involved is often carried out alone, the hours can be long and many students can suffer from the pressure they feel is on their shoulders.

Ensuring that you check in regularly with your emotions and your workload is crucial to avoid burnout. If you have other commitments, such as a job or a family, then learning to balance these can feel overwhelming at times. 

Give yourself regular breaks, speak to your supervisor and ensure that you know what university resources and support systems are available to you in case you need to access them. 

Post-doctorate: what happens after you finish your PhD?

Many PhD graduates pursue a career in academia, while others will work in industry. Some might take time out, if they can afford to, to recover from the efforts of PhD study.

Whatever you choose to do, undertaking a PhD is a huge task that can open up a range of doors professionally. Just remember to take some time out to celebrate your achievement. 

How does a PhD affect salary and earning potential?

How much does a professor with a PhD make a year?

Professors with PhDs can earn different amounts depending on where they work and their experience. In the UK, a professor might make around £50,000 to £100,000 or more each year. In the US, it's between about $60,000 and $200,000 or even higher. The exact salary depends on things like the place they work, if they have tenure, and what they teach.

How much does a PhD add to salary?

Having a PhD can make your salary higher than if you had a lower degree. But exactly how much more you earn can change. On average, people with PhDs earn more than those with bachelor’s or master’s degrees. The increase in salary is influenced by many things, such as the job you do, where you work and what field you’re in.

In fields such as research, healthcare, technology and finance, your knowledge and skills from your PhD can potentially help you secure a higher salary position.

In the end, having a PhD can boost your earning potential and open doors to well-paying jobs, including professorships and special roles in different areas. But the exact effect on your salary is influenced by many things, so ensure you weigh the cost against the benefit.

How to choose a PhD programme?

Choosing a PhD programme involves defining your research interest, researching supervisors and programme reputation, evaluating funding options, reviewing programme structure, considering available resources, assessing networking opportunities, factoring in location and career outcomes, visiting the campus if possible and trusting your instincts.

How can I find available PhD programmes?

You can find available PhD programmes by visiting university websites, using online directories such as “FindAPhD”, checking professional associations, networking with professors and students, following universities on social media, attending career fairs and conferences, contacting universities directly and exploring research institutes’ websites.

How to apply for a PhD programme?

To apply for a PhD programme:

Research and select universities aligned with your interests.

Contact potential supervisors, sharing your proposal, CV and references.

Prepare application materials: research proposal, CV, recommendation letters and a writing sample.

Ensure you meet academic and language-proficiency requirements.

Complete an online application through the university’s portal.

Pay any required application fees.

Write a statement of purpose explaining your motivations.

Provide official transcripts of your academic records.

Submit standardised test scores if needed.

Some programmes may require an interview.

The admissions committee reviews applications and decides.

Apply for scholarships or assistantships.

Upon acceptance, review and respond to the offer letter.

Plan travel, accommodation and logistics accordingly.

Remember to research and follow each university’s specific application guidelines and deadlines.

How to apply for a PhD as an international student?

Many stages of the PhD application process are the same for international students as domestic students. However, there are sometimes some additional steps:

International students should apply for a student visa.

Take language proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS if required.

Provide certificates if needed to validate your previous degrees.

Show evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.

Check if you need health insurance for your chosen destination.

Translate and authenticate academic transcripts if necessary.

Attend orientation sessions for cultural adaptation.

Apply for university housing or explore off-campus options.

Familiarise yourself with international student support services.

Ben Osborne, the postgraduate student recruitment manager at the University of Sussex explains in detail how to apply for a PhD in the UK .

Giulia Evolvi, a lecturer in media and communication at Erasmus University, Rotterdam explains how to apply for a PhD in the US .

Finally, Samiul Hossain explores the question Is it possible to do a three-year PhD as an international student?

Q. What is a PhD? A. A PhD is the highest level of academic degree awarded by universities, involving in-depth research and a substantial thesis.

Q. What does “PhD” mean? A. “PhD” stands for doctor of philosophy, recognising expertise in a field.

Q. What is a professional doctorate? A. A professional doctorate emphasises practical application in fields such as education or healthcare.

Q. How long does it take to study a PhD? A. It takes between three and six years to study a full-time PhD programme.

Q. How long is a PhD in the UK? A. It takes around three to four years to study a full-time UK PhD.

Q. How long is a PhD in the US? A. It takes approximately five to six years to complete a full-time US PhD.

Q. Why does it take longer to study a PhD in the US? A. US programmes often include more course work and broader training.

Q. What qualifications do you need for a PhD? A. You usually need an undergraduate degree as a minimum requirement, although a master’s might be preferred.

Q. Do you need a master’s degree to get into a PhD programme? A. Master’s degrees are preferred but not always required.

Q. Are PhD entry requirements similar in other countries? A. Entry requirements are similar in many countries, but there may be additional requirements. Make sure to check the university website for specific details.

Q. How much does it cost to study a PhD? A. The cost of PhD programmes vary by country and university.

Q. What funding options are available for PhD candidates? A. Scholarships, assistantships, fellowships, grants, stipends are all funding options for PhD candidates.

Q. What does a PhD involve? A. PhDs involve research, seminars, thesis, literature review, data analysis and a PhD viva.

Q. Why should you do a PhD? A. There are many reasons to study a PhD including personal growth, research skills, contributions to academia and professional development.

Q. What are some benefits of studying a PhD? A. Benefits of graduating with a PhD include achieving tenure, collaborations with colleagues, publication of your work, and networking opportunities.

Q. What is a PhD thesis? A. A PhD thesis is a comprehensive document that showcases the original research conducted by a PhD candidate.

Q. What is a PhD viva? A. A PhD viva, also known as a viva voce or oral examination, is the final evaluation of a PhD candidate’s research and thesis where the panel asks questions, engages in discussions and assesses the depth of the candidate’s understanding and expertise.

Q. Can you do a PhD part-time? A. Yes, part-time options are available for PhDs.

Q. Can I do a PhD through distance learning? A. Some universities offer online PhDs; you can find out more on their websites.

Q. How to choose a PhD programme? A. You can find PhD programmes through research, by contacting faculty, checking resources and considering location.

Q. How can I find available PhD programme? A. You can find available PhD programmes on university sites, through directories and by networking.

Q. How to apply for a PhD programme A. To apply for a PhD programme, research suitable universities and programmes, get in touch with potential supervisors, gather required documents like transcripts and reference letters, complete the online application, pay any necessary fees and submit a statement of purpose and research proposal. If needed, meet language-proficiency criteria and attend interviews. After acceptance, explore funding choices, confirm your spot and get ready for the programme’s start.

Q. How to apply for a PhD as an international student A. To apply for a PhD as an international student, follow similar steps to domestic students, but you need to include securing a student visa and passing language requirements.

Q. What is a PhD dropout rate? A. The dropout rate from PhDs varies but is approximately 30-40 per cent.

Q. How does a PhD affect salary and earning potential? A. A PhD can boost earning potential, especially in research, technology, healthcare and academia. Impact varies by job, industry and location. Experience, skills and demand also influence salary.

Q. How to address a person with a PhD? A. When addressing someone with a PhD, it’s respectful to use “Dr”, followed by their last name, whether they have a PhD in an academic field or a professional doctorate. For instance, “Dr. Smith”.

Q. Is there a difference between a PhD and a doctorate? A. The terms “PhD” and “doctorate” are often used interchangeably, though a PhD is a specific type of doctorate focused on original research. A doctorate can refer more broadly to any doctoral-level degree, including professional doctorates with practical applications.

Q. What is the difference between a PhD and an MD? A. A PhD is a doctor of philosophy, awarded for academic research, while an MD is a doctor of medicine, focusing on medical practice. They lead to different career paths and involve distinct areas of study.

Q. What is the difference between a PhD and a professional doctorate? A. A PhD is an academic research-focused degree, while a professional doctorate emphasises applying research to practical fields such as education or business. PhDs often involve original research, while professional doctorates focus on real-world application.

Q. What is the difference between UK and US PhDs? A. The difference between UK and US PhDs lies mainly in structure and duration. UK PhDs often have shorter durations and a stronger emphasis on independent research from an early stage. US PhDs typically include more initial coursework and broader foundational training before full-time research begins.

Q. What is the difference between a PhD student and a candidate? A. A PhD student is actively studying and researching in a doctoral programme, while a PhD candidate has completed programme requirements except for the dissertation and is close to completion.

Q. What’s the difference between a PhD and an EdD? A. A PhD and an EdD (doctor of education) differ in focus. A PhD emphasises research and academic contributions, while an EdD focuses on applying research to practical educational issues.

Q. What’s the difference between a PhD and a DBA? A. A PhD and a DBA (doctor of business administration) differ in purpose. A PhD emphasises theoretical research and academia, while a DBA is practice-oriented, aimed at solving real business problems.

Q. What’s the difference between a PhD and a PsyD? A. A PhD and a PsyD (doctor of psychology) differ in emphasis. A PhD focuses on research and academia, while a PsyD emphasises clinical practice and applying psychological knowledge.

Q. What’s the difference between a PhD and an LLD? A. A PhD and an LLD (doctor of laws or Legum doctor) are distinct. A PhD is awarded in various disciplines, while an LLD is usually an honorary degree for significant contributions to law.

Q. What’s the difference between a PhD and an MD-PhD? A. A PhD and an MD-PhD differ. An MD-PhD is a dual degree combining medical training (MD) with research training (PhD).

Q. What is the Cambridge PhD? A. A Cambridge PhD involves original research guided by a supervisor, resulting in a thesis. It’s offered at the University of Cambridge .

Q. What is the Oxford DPhil? A. An Oxford DPhil is equivalent to a PhD and involves independent research leading to a thesis. The term “DPhil” is unique to the University of Oxford .

Q. What is the PhD programme acceptance rate? A. PhD acceptance rates vary by university, field and competition. Prestigious universities and competitive fields often have lower acceptance rates.

Q. What is a PhD supervisor? A. A PhD supervisor guides and supports a student’s research journey, providing expertise and feedback.

Q. What is a PhD panel? A. A PhD panel evaluates a candidate’s research, thesis and oral defence. It consists of experts in the field.

Q. What is a PhD stipend? A. A PhD stipend is a regular payment supporting living expenses during research, often tied to teaching or research assistant roles.

Q. What is a PhD progression assessment? A. A PhD progression assessment evaluates a student’s progress, often confirming their continuation in the programme.

Q. What is a PhD defence? A. A PhD defence, or viva, is the final oral examination where a candidate presents and defends their research findings and thesis before experts.

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Discover the benefits of getting a PhD or research degree and how it can boost your career.

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PhDs and research degrees help you start or continue your research in a field you're passionate about. You can decide what you work on, how you work on it and how you get there, with support and guidance from a supervisory team.

Make a world-first discovery, create innovation with lasting impact or shine a new light on important topics.

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If you simply love learning and have a passion for discovering new things then it's a good sign a research degree is for you.

You'll pick a topic you're interested in and have the freedom to dive deep into the heart of a problem.

Draw on the years of research in your field, forge your own findings or perspective and make your contribution to a body of exceptional research.

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Build on your knowledge from your Master's degree by engaging with complex topics in a more specialised field of your choice.

You'll be able to learn more about what you're passionate about and give you the tools to make meaningful contributions to specific research fields.

You'll dive into key areas and challenges in your field, developing your theoretical approach and applying it through your research.

Or you could look at conducting interdisciplinary research. Blend theories, approaches and expertise across fields and universities to create brand new, world-leading research.

3. Put your studies into practice

If you want to start applying what you learned in your studies then a research degree is a great way to do it.

You'll work independently in gathering resources and research. You'll develop sharp time management skills, share your findings with your peers and develop your work together.

You'll hone your communication skills so you can discuss complex topics both written and verbally to experts and everyday people alike.

You'll develop your interpersonal skills, working with professional staff, peers, academics and others. Become a master of taking on feedback as you refine your research.

Writing an extended report or essay takes time and skill. Identifying an objective, working in the lab or forging an argument and making your case with evidence takes talent. You'll end up a technical expert and writer no matter what field you're in.

4. Learn with engaged peers

During your research degree, you and your peers are all studying to get better at what you do. You'll learn with motivated researchers bringing their own perspectives and experiences to the same problems.

You'll build a solid study group to push and encourage each other to develop. You'll also gain new insights from your classmates that can help shape your learning.

5. Boost your career

A research degree is a great way to become a subject matter expert or researcher.

A research-based degree is the most direct pathway to an academic job at university. You'll get the skills you need to compete in the university sector. After you graduate you can look at becoming a tutor, researcher or lecturer. Most universities offer post-doctoral research fellowships where you can get paid to hone your skills, carry on researching and get your academic career rolling.

Some jobs require a Master's or PhD and generally pay very well in the private and public sector. You could:

• work in the public or private sector in industrial research and development
• advise on government policy to make an impact on your local region or country
• become a communications expert for your field and share complex research in clear, everyday fashion

6. Networking opportunities

PhDs and research degrees are a great chance to expand your network and meet diverse people with similar interests, knowledge and passion.

You'll have the chance to attend conferences, seminars and workshops in different cities or countries. Gain new insights and build connections with other researchers and experts across borders.

Networking with coursemates, colleagues and other academics helps expand your knowledge base and balance the solitude that can often come with a research life. Having a network is also incredibly helpful in finding and applying for funding and looking for work in the future.

7. New city, new experiences

Studying for a PhD or research degree might mean moving cities or even countries. If you've been wanting a change of setting along with your career path it's a great opportunity to give both a try.

If you're an international student, studying in a different country gives you the chance to graduate with both fantastic life experiences and a great qualification.

Portsmouth is a welcoming, student-friendly city – one where you'll meet people from all around the world, and have the chance to make connections with people in a whole new environment.

See why Portsmouth is a great place to live

Since starting my PhD, I have been lucky enough to publish twice and visit three different conferences, one of which was held at Cornell University. These opportunities will prove invaluable in my career going forwards, in academia.

Robert Lawrence, PhD Molecular Microbiology

Just like any course, the benefits you'll get from a research degree depends on what you want to get out of it. When you're weighing up your options there are some important questions you should ask yourself to make sure it's right for you.

1. Is this subject something I'm passionate about?

Studying a research degree is a multi-year time commitment. If you're excited by the idea of spending a significant period of time dedicated to one subject, that's a good sign you're ready.

Research degrees often involve a lot of independent work, so if you're only partly interested in the subject, you might find yourself losing interest. That can make meeting your own expectations more difficult.

Is learning about and working in this field something that you can see yourself in for the next 5-10 years? And where do you want to be in that timeframe? It's important not to study just so you can put off bigger life decisions.

2. Do I need a research degree to follow my passion?

There are many different jobs or careers in every field. Not all of them require you to have a research Master's or PhD.

If you want to contribute to a specific industry or area, do you already have some skills and knowledge you can apply in it? If not, what skills or knowledge will a research degree give you?

3. Am I ready for more uni?

If you've finished your Bachelor's or Master's degree and are looking at your next options, a research degree is an option that keeps things familiar. For some students, if you've spent the last 3-4 years studying you might want to try something different.

It depends on who you are, what you care about and what you want to do with your life. If you finished your degree and you're mostly relieved it's over then jumping right back into study may not be the best fit for you.

Remember that you can always go to uni again later. Plenty of graduates spend a few years working before coming back to upskill, retrain or dive into their passion. In a lot of cases, what you've learned in your work experience will make you a better student when you go back to it.

4. Have I found the right supervisor?

Every research student has at least one supervisor. They're there to support and guide you as you develop your ideas and compile your research

Having the right supervisor can be the difference between making your research good, great or excellent. If they're running or part of a research centre or group you may have greater access to networks and resources

It's best you explore supervisors you can work with , which might mean checking out multiple universities and reaching out to them directly. Usually, their profile will say if they're taking on new students and they're happy to get back to you by email.

As it is a PhD I have formed my course myself, but having a supervisor who is well-versed in my subject area is the most unique part of my work here, as no one else is approaching the subjects we look at in a similar way

Beatrice Ashton-Lelliott, PhD English Literature

5. Can I afford it?

Before you decide on a research degree it's important to think about the costs involved.

If you're a UK national applying for an MPhil or MRes course, you might be eligible for a Government Postgraduate Master's Loan  which you can use to fund your tuition fees, living costs and other costs for a Master's course.

If you're an international student you'll need to plan out how you can cover your costs and fund yourself while you're studying.

When considering a PhD there are funded and non-funded options:

• If you've got an idea that aligns with an academic's field of expertise, you can contact them directly
• Look to external funding from the government or an independent research body
• Universities will offer funded PhD opportunities but these may be limited
• Start a PhD without funding support

If you're currently working you may need to adjust your working hours or potentially look for part-time work. You might have less money to play with if you're studying full-time and working on the side.

If you're moving cities or countries there are other costs you'll need to consider. You'll need to factor in things like the initial cost of moving and your deposit if you're renting a place.

Find out more

Our research degrees subject areas.

Take your expertise further by studying for a PhD or other research degree at the University of Portsmouth. Explore the subject areas you can study & get started on your research journey.

Funding your research degree

Find out how you can fund your postgraduate research project, with options including loans, bursaries, and scholarships.

Why PhDs are good – for individuals, and for a country

Vice President of the Academy of Science of South Africa and DST-NRF SARChI chair in Fungal Genomics, Professor in Genetics, University of Pretoria, University of Pretoria

Disclosure statement

Brenda Wingfield receives funding from the Department of Science and Innovation in South Africa as she holds a DST/NRF research chair. She is a Professor at a South African University and is the vice president of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf).

University of Pretoria provides funding as a partner of The Conversation AFRICA.

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What is the value of a PhD? Is there a need in a developing world country to undertake a PhD study? It’s expensive (around R1 million per graduate) and in many regards a luxury for students from poor families. Even for those who have better access to money there’s a very real cost in tuition, costs of the research as well as years lost with regards to climbing the career ladder. As students in the southern hemisphere consider their study options for next year, it’s worth revisiting the pros and cons of doing a PhD.

From an individual perspective, there are good and bad reasons to do a PhD.

The good reasons include achieving a significant goal in terms of a research output, publications and in many cases solving an important problem. Doing research towards a PhD allows one to be curious, literally every day.

It’s also the first step in becoming part of the global network of researchers. Becoming part of a global community can be very gratifying.

The bad reasons would include the assumption that having a PhD will earn you a larger salary. This is not always the case. Another is peer pressure which can lead students to register for a PhD. Sometimes the pressure comes from family. Another not so good reason is when people decide to do a PhD because they don’t like the job that they are doing.

Undertaking a PhD study should only be considered if you are really passionate about research and understand that it really takes a huge amount of time and energy. It is after all the ultimate degree – there are none higher.

The value of a PhD

The bottom line is that there is no magic about the qualification. It doesn’t make you a better or smarter person.

However, people who have PhDs have shown a certain capacity and tenacity and have the degree to prove it. Many other people might have the equivalent capacity and tenacity but without the degree it is less easy for employers to identify them.

The South African government has identified that producing people with a PhD degree is an important goal. The Department of Science and Innovation has suggested that universities need to increase their output of PhD graduates to 100 graduates per million people. At the moment South Africa has 46 doctoral graduates per million people, this is one tenth of the figure for Switzerland (465) and United Kingdom (409).

The new target would take the expected output to more than 5800 PhD graduates every year. In 2016 the number of PhD graduates in South Africa was just under 3000 .

The government’s argument is that the PhD degree can be seen as a driver of the academic pipeline. If we focus on getting more PhDs, universities will also increase other graduates in the pipeline. While I support the idea of PhDs being a driver, I think that the current targets cannot be achieved for many years.

One cannot easily change the PhD pipeline quite so rapidly. In 2001 there were 802 PhD graduates, in 2009 this had increased to 1380 and in 2017 this had increased to 3057 , which has been a remarkable achievement. This is especially the case given the current global and local economic climate.

All countries need strong comprehensive universities – institutions that do more than just train students to the bachelor degree level. To have a substantive research output a university must have academics with PhDs. Only people with PhDs can train PhD graduates.

That does indeed mean building a vibrant PhD graduate training programme to support strong research output. South Africa is short of people with the appropriate qualifications (PhDs) to do the training. And it cannot expect to import such graduates to support its economy, because without strong comprehensive universities a country cannot train the range of graduates with skills necessary for sustained economic growth and development.

Quite a bit has been written about an over supply of PhD graduates. But this isn’t a problem in a country like South Africa where I have trained 52 PhD graduates, all of whom have found jobs. Not all are in academic positions, not all are still doing research. None of them have ever suggested that doing a PhD was a waste of time.

We need to train more, not less.

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7 valid reasons why to do a PhD in 2023?

Professor dawid hanak.

• June 30, 2021
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Table of Contents

Trying to decide whether to do a PhD or not? It’s a tough one we get that! That’s why we share the key reasons why to get a PhD and whether PhD matters!

Considering doing a PhD? Do you know why you want to be a PhD student? Do you need a PhD degree to be successful in your career? These may be the questions that go through your mind as a prospective PhD student. 

Unless you’re committed to working in higher education or research, a PhD may not be something that you need to succeed. Therefore, it’s important to answer yourself question whether you need to do a PhD in the first place. If you need it, you need to answer yourself – WHY why do you wish to pursue PhD in the first place. It is also crucial to think about what to do after a PhD degree. 

Why it’s so important to know your WHY? Well, as you may know, each PhD program takes a quite significant amount of time and lots of hard work. Getting a doctoral degree is exciting, stimulating, yet one of the most time-consuming endeavours in one’s life. That’s why you need to know why do you want to do a PhD degree. What’s the good reason for you to do a PhD?

And why do people actually decide to undertake a PhD program, regardless of the requirements? Well, there are many good reasons why someone actually does a PhD degree. From advancing knowledge, personal ambition, change career direction, future career prospects and job market requirements and so on. But I did want to say that no reason is better than another. At the end of the day, what matters is that happy with your decision to do a PhD. It may give you a purpose, make your life better, and by extension, make other lives better. That’s a wonderful place to be.

Why did I decide to do a PhD degree? 

Why did I decide to enrol for a PhD program? That’s a very good question! And let me answer that very quickly before I’ll talk about the good reasons why you can do a PhD degree.

What did I want to achieve in my career? At the very beginning, I didn’t consider actually doing a PhD degree. It wasn’t on my agenda. As an engineer at that time, I just wanted to make a positive change in our society. I wanted to contribute towards solving global challenges. I wanted to contribute to solving climate change.

I knew that global warming was an issue and I knew this would remain an issue for people in the future. I started looking into getting masters degree in an area that will help me to make such a contribution. I already had a background in power and environmental engineering, and this background helped me understand that the power industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. 

To understand how we can decarbonise this industry, I started to dig deeper during my masters in clean coal technologies and carbon capture. As I progressed through my masters, I realised that there aren’t many solutions that we can actually implement now.

There were so many challenges that still need to be resolved.

There were so many unknowns. We didn’t know how to do carbon capture at scale. We didn’t know how to make it cost efficient.

So the only way I could contribute towards solving these challenges was to was either to get a job in industry and start discussing that with other engineers and researchers, or to focus on an academic career path. At that time, I didn’t even consider the academic path. But I realised that in order to progress through the industrial R&D career path, I will need to do a PhD degree at some point.

And then this question came to my mind. Okay, I need to do a PhD, because that’s what we require for my career development and progression so important. Will I have enough energy to do it in a couple of years or will I simply change careers? I came up with a list of good reasons to do a PhD to weigh the pros and cons. I particularly focused on answering the question of what to do after a PhD!

And you know what? This helped me to decide to do my PhD right after my masters. 

I started exploring what does PhD mean, what it takes to do a PhD. Also, during my masters, I realised that I actually like doing research and this career path is quite appealing to me. It was appealing that I can focus for several years on my project and explore solutions to a specific research challenge. I thought this would be enough time to actually progress in that research area. I found it really encouraging, motivating, and inspiring at the same time.

So that’s why I decided to do a PhD. I felt the need to actually find answers to the challenges that the industry is actually facing now. That was the main reason for me. I was motivated to solve climate change. I was motivated to help the power industry out. And I knew that a PhD would be a requirement at some point in my career.

I was able to secure PhD funding and a position in the PhD program at a university with an industrial focus. And that’s how my academic career actually started.

At the beginning of my PhD, I didn’t know that I would stay in academia, mostly because my background was in engineering and I like to do practical stuff as you might know. That’s why I never thought I will be an associate professor or an editor.  I just wanted to solve challenges and solve problems.

As you can see there are many reasons why I decided to do a PhD. Let me unpack this and let me talk about other reasons to get a PhD, what are the main motivations and reasons for you to do a PhD. I trust this will be useful if you are at the stage where you’re about to decide whether to do a PhD or not.

Reason to do a PhD #1: Advance the current state-of-the-art and produce new knowledge

One of the main reasons why people decide to do a PhD is to advance the understanding of the research area that you’re interested in.

It means that you recognise that there are some recent problems, which we like to call knowledge gaps or research gaps, that you would like to contribute to solving. You know that there are some challenges yet to be solved that will make our lifes better in one way or another.

And more importantly, you’ve got some good ideas about how these problems can be solved. Or maybe you are just eager to dedicate your career to solving these specific challenges, finding solutions. Regardless of whether you’ve already got solutions or feel motivated to make a positive change in the world as a PhD student, generating new knowledge is one of the key reasons to do a PhD. 

Reason to do a PhD #2: A PhD degree is necessary for career development.

Regardless of whether you decide to pursue an academic career or industrial R&D career, at some point, you might actually need a PhD degree.

If you wanted to do research and if you wanted to stay in academia, regardless of whether this is in the UK, US or European Union, you really need to have a PhD degree. Increasingly more and more people actually decide to do a PhD actually stay in their jobs or progress in their careers. 

Therefore, doing the PhD program at the early stage of your career can actually have benefits. The key benefits include the fact that you will develop necessary skills, such as grant writing, time management, as well as other technical skills, soft skills and transferable skills that will help you advance your future career and get the research positions that you wish. 

Remember, PhD graduates are also sought for in industry , mostly because of their transferable skills and the fact that they become subject matter experts. Make sure you explore job prospects in your research before you apply!

Reason to do a PhD #3: Motivation and career satisfaction

This is quite a good reason to do a PhD. We are all passionate about different things, and your big research idea can be a route to a career with high job satisfaction.

If you’re doing your bachelors degree or masters degree, and developed a passion for a specific research area, it may be a good indicator that you’ll enjoy working in academia. If you’re passionate about specific challenges, such as sustainable development and so on, doing research in that area, it might be really exciting and motivating.

It might become the purpose of your life. 

Therefore, being passionate about a specific research area may be one of the good reasons to do a PhD. If you love learning, developing your skills, coaching others, and want to become a subject matter expert, a career in higher education may be for you.  Here are the main reasons why I think it is worth exploring career opportunities in higher education , from the job satisfaction point of view. It’s also worth adding that 81% of PhD students think that a PhD degree will positively influence their future career prospects and will be well seen on the job market, according to the study by HEPI . 

Reason to do a PhD #4: You’ve got a big research idea that can change the world

Another reason to continue your postgraduate degree and get a PhD is the fact that you might have a really good idea that you would like to explore in details.

You may already have a background in doing research, and you would like to have academics who already have significant experience to support you in developing that research idea, while you get a PhD degree.

Having an idea is an important aspect of any PhD. But doing a PhD can be a cost-effective way to develop and demonstrate the viability of your idea. Yes, you may go ahead, gather a team and launch a start-up. But then you’re responsible for funding the operation of your start-up. Working with academics can help you to develop your idea, apply for patents and get it closer to the market. By the end of your PhD, you may actually start seeking seed funding for your start-up and you’ll have a solid foundation and high quality due diligence done. 

Reason to do a PhD #5: A personal motivation to become a professor

You always wanted to develop an academic career and wanted to become a professor. This is a very valid reason I would say. Many people deciding to do a PhD have an aspiration and a career goal to become a professor from the very beginning of their academic career.

They usually love learning and teaching others, are not scared about the uncertainty of research, are eager to pursue a postgraduate degree and are motivated to do well as PhD students. 

It means that they selected a specific bachelors degree (and masters degree), because they really wanted to go into physics, chemistry, art or social sciences.

It may be also the case for you. You may have already decided to do your first, second degree and then your PhD in that specific area, because you really want to be a professor as you find working the front edge of science exciting and you love developing others people. And that’s essentially your career goal.

Reason to do a PhD #6: An interesting project with full PhD funding 

Although you may have a ground-breaking idea for your PhD, getting funding for your graduate school may be challenging. And in many cases, people actually have to find external sources of funding for their PhD programme. If you’re still looking for funding for a PhD, here is a list of options that you may consider to fund your postgraduate degree .

But even if you haven’t considered doing PhD as a part of your career development, you may have come across a very interesting and exciting project that is funded.

You may decide to apply for this kind of PhD because of the career development opportunity it brings. After all, PhD can help you gain valuable career skills, such as communication skills, analytical skills, critical thinking and data analysis skills. You may see this as an opportunity for professional development or even to change career direction. 

You may decide to apply for fully funded PhD project because it simply aligns with your career goals, and I don’t want to say that there wasn’t a better offer on the job market. Because that’s not a good reason to do a PhD. You really want to do a PhD because you’re motivated and it will support your career development.

And as I mentioned above, I didn’t really consider doing a PhD, but at some point, I realised I may need a PhD to progress in my career. And I found an exciting opportunity to do a PhD so that was one of the good reasons to do a PhD for me in the first place.

Reason to do a PhD #7: You want to change the world

This is the ultimate motivation for doing a doctoral degree and pursuing an academic career. Career development, future career and job prospects, developing transferable skills and becoming a subject matter expert are just a few good reasons to do a PhD.  

But the ultimate reason to get a PhD is the fact that you want to make a positive change in the world, helping out our society by resolving its challenges.

Why do I think so?

Well, each PhD thesis needs to contribute to the current body of knowledge, adding new insights and solutions, creating new knowledge. As a PhD student, you need to have a valid reason for doing a PhD so that it motivates you to overcome the challenges, even when the worst case scenario materialise. The outcomes of your PhD tend to bring a positive change to the world we live in and make our society better, more sustainable, and happier. 

That’s why I think this is the key reason to do a PhD degree.

What are the reasons not to do a PhD?

I discussed several good reasons to do a PhD. But as an academic, I always try to use my critical thinking skills to remain as objective as possible. 

That’s why I feel that this article wouldn’t be complete if I haven’t at least mentioned reasons not to do a PhD. 

Although there may be many reasons not do do a PhD, I think there is one specific reason that I want you to be aware of. Namely, you shouldn’t do a PhD, if you don’t have anything else to do.

Bbecause the main reason why people actually do a PhD because they want to instil a positive change and make a positive contribution to our world. So if you don’t have that motivation or if you don’t feel dedicated enough to working under uncertainty, or don’t have a sufficient willingness to dedicate 3-5 years of your life to solving a specific problem, doctoral degree and career in higher education may not be the route for you, and you may struggle in the process.

Why you may wonder?

Well, as I mentioned above, doing a PhD, takes a significant amount of energy and hard work, need a significant amount of motivation to actually go through the challenges and many worst case scenarios that we face as researchers and academics. This is mostly because the PhD research is very uncertain. You can never predict with 100% certainty what will happen. Even if you designed a perfect set of experiments, there might be some phenomena that you haven’t accounted for. There might be a new phenomenon that we don’t know.

With all these challenges ahead, you need to have a sufficient amount of energy to motivate yourself to actually find solutions to these challenges and keep on working.

So doing PhD shouldn’t be seen not an alternative to unemployment. You must see it as a career goal that will help you open new job prospects and career opportunities. Essentially,  you really need to want to do a PhD and you need to be in it 100%. 

And I only listed seven reasons why people do a PhD in the first place. But there are many more. There are as many reasons as many researchers because each one of us is different. Each one of us has a different vision. Each one of us has a different purpose and that purpose matters. So, whether you want to change the world by solving a specific challenge, become a subject matter expert or teach university students as a career path, that’s a really great reason why to do a PhD.

But if you decided to do a PhD because you had nothing else to do, you might go to the PhD and you get it. But you may not feel fulfilled and you may feel burnt out already. I know many PhDs who just wanted to get their PhD thesis done and didn’t care about its quality. You don’t want to spend 3-5 years wondering whether research is a career path for you. You need a clear purpose.

For example, I knew I needed to do a PhD to progress in my research career, regardless of the fact whether I’d go for industrial R&D or higher education positions. I  wanted to understand the research area better, but also because I wanted to develop solid research skills. I didn’t know exactly which career path I’ll take and I decided at the end of my PhD to stay in the higher education sector. I knew, however, that I wanted to work on breakthrough carbon capture technologies to help decarbonise our economy. And that was a good enough reason to actually pursue a PhD.

You really have to have a strong WHY that will give you motivation throughout your PhD degree, so that you can overcome the challenges, so that you won’t get overwhelmed with the uncertainty, and so that you succeed in your academic career.

A final word…

I hope this article gave you a great overview of why people actually do a PhD. I know there are as many reasons, as researchers, because each one of us has a different purpose. But I hope you can relate to at least one or two of those reasons.

Have a go through those reasons when you are deciding whether to do a PhD or not, mostly because it’s really important to understand why you do this in the first place and what it is that you want to achieve in your career, what to do after a PhD, mostly because you really have to have enough motivation and inspiration within yourself to drive yourself through the process. Think about what can a PhD do for you!

PhD is a long journey, it can take anything from three years to five or even six years in some countries. It’s a long and uncertain journey. It’s a significant time contribution to developing yourself and focusing on a single project. That is why having clarity on why do you wish to pursue PhD is crucial.

But there are benefits of doing a PhD. At the end of the day, you work on the edge of technology, science and knowledge, your name will be recognised for your contributions. Getting a PhD will open new career opportunities and your career can take you anywhere you want, mostly because you’re the creator of knowledge, you’re responsible for discovering how the world works, and telling us about it.

So whether you are in it because you want to change the world or maybe it’s your lifelong dream to do a PhD and become a professor, it doesn’t really matter as long as you’re happy with the final outcome.

So why are you doing your PhD? Share that in the comment!

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Why get a ph.d..

Why get a Doctor of Philosophy? By pursuing and obtaining a Ph.D., you'll be able to explore a variety of interesting and challenging problems facing humanity. You'll become an expert in your field - and that expertise is in demand. With a Ph.D., you'll be in control of your own destiny, armed with a degree that will allow you to succeed in high-level positions in virtually every career path, be it academia, industry, government or elsewhere, while pushing the boundaries of human knowledge .

Qualified doctoral students often receive departmental stipends of, on average, $32,000-$40,000 per year to cover living expenses. That means you can earn your Ph.D. and get paid for it!

Still wondering why you should you get a Ph.D.? Let Rice Professor C. Fred Higgs tell you in the video below, or read our graduate student blog to get a student perspective on pursuing the Ph.D.!

11 Reasons why to Study a PhD?

Studying a PhD is a tough decision for a student but is actually more rewarding. The advantages are more than drawbacks.

But still, you may have confusion about what to do, or what not to!

After the master’s surely a question bothers you, “should I have to go for PhD or not?” It’s pretty fine to have doubts because it takes 5 to 6 years to complete and also is expensive. 

Even if you enroll in it, at one point of your PhD tenure you will feel like your decision was wrong. It’s a painful and frustrating process but from my personal experiences, I can say studying for a PhD is the more profitable, helpful and life-changing decision of one’s life. 

The present content forces on the reason why doing a PhD is the best decision of your life. I will give you 10 reasons why to study PhD. 

Interesting article to read: Is PhD worth it in 2021?

11 reasons why to study PhD: 

It’s an honor: .

First of all, if you are in the PhD or willing to go for it, keep in mind that it’s an honor. Not all can get admission in it, and not even everyone completes it. You are doing it means you are special and knowledgeable than others. 

Universities give the degree as esteem or prestige, therefore it’s the biggest reason to study. People will see you with respect, after completing it, your opinion will matter for all because after all, you will be an expert, the philosopher in your subject. 

Call yourself doctor: 

Every parent wants their child to be a doctor or engineer (especially in India), if you miss the chance after the 12th, you will have another. Go for a PhD, complete all the milestones, defend your thesis and be a doctor. 

A PhD degree holder can legally use “Dr” above their name. The reason is they have mastered some skills which no one has. Isn’t it fascinating! However, if you are studying for a PhD only get the acknowledgment of a doctor, don’t have your time. PhD is a serious business and a tedious process. 

Develop problem-solving capabilities: 

Whatever the subjects are, the results or findings of a PhD must be useful to people, society or the world otherwise it’s a waste of time. Analyze your PhD goals whether they are useful to some extent or not! 

Doctoral studies are all about providing or giving new knowledge to the world. The finding or knowledge should solve some existing real-world problems, that’s what the PhD is. 

The entire tenure of PhD makes you a person having capabilities of solving problems, again it’s a unique characteristic, not many have. For instance, if you have developed some unique water conservation idea or device, it solves the problem. If you have manufactured some device to produce electricity, it solves the world’s problems. 

The coursework and syllabus of the PhD are designed in such a way that tailors someone’s problem-solving capabilities. 

Learning new things: 

Some people want to learn, every day, every time, money doesn’t matter for them. Let me tell you if you are in them, PhD is definitely for you. As I always say, studying a PhD is like swimming in the shoreless sea. 

Every day starts with new problems, new challenges and new goals. You have to read things to solve problems and ride your boat ahead, day by day. Maybe you are stuck, sometimes, but your skills to learn new things helps you to cope up with it.

You will definitely learn new things while studying a PhD. 

Out of the box analytical thinking 

The use of existing information or knowledge to accurately solve any problem or handle any situation is our analytic thinking. Now you know why analytical thinking is top of the chart for a PhD student. They have knowledge, power and sense to solve problems. 

Higher positions:

In any system, the higher positions are reserved for the doctors. Deans, heads of the departments, leaders and CEOs of reputed organizations are doctors only- the doctor of philosophy. 

 If a doctoral degree, you can get higher positions in education or academics, research, private or other sectors.  The reason why so, it simply clear- they have skills, potential, knowledge, out of the box analytic thinking and problem-solving capabilities. 

More career options: 

Now coming to the main point of the present topics, why studying PhD is beneficial? – the answer is more career options. 

 With the highest level of academic degree, the fellow can choose their career in academics and become a professor or lecturer, industrial leader, organization head, dean of the institute,  leader, scientist, researcher, writer, editor or anything they want. 

One elevates their earning and career options with the PhD. 

More earning: 

As you get higher positions in any system you can ask for a higher salary, if your expertise is so restricted, then you can even earn more than others. 

The average salary of PhD degree holders in education is ~$70,000; research is ~50,000 to 1,00,000$; IT sector is 1,20,000$ and healthcare is 95,000 to 1,00,00$ per year. 

If you wish to learn more on job positions and the expected salary of various PhD degree holders, you can read this article: PhD jobs and expected salary . 

Comfortable lifestyle: 

10 to 5 jobs, a good weekend, a month’s holiday after every semester is a dream for many but a reality for the doctor. PhD studies prepare candidates for academics as well as research and get jobs as professional, educational experts of the lecturer. 

The academic option as a career is more comfortable for anyone. By taking a job at a college, they can live life comfortably. 

The responsibilities of an academician are teaching students, guiding research students, doing college stuff and that’s it. 

Power to change the world: 

A PhD degree in your hand is like a loaded gun, you can use it to change the world with your excellent knowledge and research potentials. Everyone who had changed the world with their innovations were scientists. A PhD degree prepares you to be a good scientist. 

You can choose to be a scientist, accept challenges to find something new to change the world. With the knowledge and power of analytical thinking, the philosopher can revolutionize the world. 

Develop expertise: 

The core value of any PhD or doctoral studies is to develop the expertise of the PhD fellow. Your responsibilities in PhD are to work on a single topic using techniques, theory or methods. 

A fellow has to find something new and nourish your skills and expertise. One needs to work continuously using a single skill or technique every day for 5 years. 

PhD studies sharpen your present skills or expertise and take it to the next level. 

Related article: PhD student- What Skills and Qualities One Should Acquire?

Why study PhD? – some recommendations

After reading this positive intended piece of healthy content you should have to know more about why to study PhD. I have some recommendations cum tips for you if you make up your mind to go for a PhD. here they are: 

Don’t go in a hurry: again, think twice, I do not scare you but you have to invest time and money, if you do not have an interest in reading, solving problems, learning new things and get frustrated and demotivated easily, you should think over your decision. 

Don’t follow the benefits, go with your natural instinct. 

Reading and writing are a must: PhD is all about new things- new knowledge, new findings and new discoveries. You have to read more and more on your topic to even start the work. 

Before enrolling, tailor skills of daily reading and writing for at least 4 hours otherwise, you will be in big trouble. 

Take a chill pill: you will be soon on the shoreless ocean, don’t get frustrated or panic, just go with the flow, start from somewhere and follow your supervisor’s order. Things will get better soon. 

Think about finance: PhD is a huge project, you have to invest huge money. Prepare yourself how you will manage or cope up with the PhD finance problems for at least the next 5 years. 

Although you have some option to finance your PhD, read this article for that: what is a funded PhD? 

Keep a smile on your face: prepare your mind for 5 to 6 years, you have to face repeated problems with your PhD every day. There is no option to come back. Keep a smile on your face and prepare for everyday challenges. 

Why study PhD?- challenges to face

“PhD is not for all”- you may read this sentence in most of our articles, I will never give someone false hopes, the reason is, studying PhD is actually, indeed a hard job! It’s not for all. 

One must have dedication, sensiarity, knowledge and patience to do it. If you have all these skills, you may try. Here I am enlisting several challenges to face while study PhD. 

Time consuming process:  Study PhD takes more time up to 5 or 7 years or even more. So if you are fighting against lack of patience, trust me think twice. 

Expensive one: Generally PhD or doctoral degrees are costlier. The fees are too much and one needs to manage expenses for at least 4 to 5 years. But don’t worry there are plenty of funding options available. 

The expenses of doing a PhD ranging from 20,000$ to 40,000$ or more (only fees!). Besides students also have to manage other research expenses and accommodation themself. 

More failures: Doing a PhD is like swimming in the ocean without a shore. Failures are an everyday process. As I said, one should show patience to get results. As the main objective of doing research is to find new knowledge, it is obvious that you get failures. 

Don’t get frustrated with failures, try to figure out the reasons, possibly to overcome the problem. That’s what the PhD is, perhaps. 

Demotivation : there are two sides of PhD- passion, enthusiasm and confidence on the positive side whilst frustration, demotivation and depression at the negative side. 

You got demotivated by repeated failures, tons of work loads and pending duties. But it’s a process, everyone should follow. Don’t take it too serious, motivate yourself by reading and listening to motivational things. 

Tons of workloads: failure! The common thing in PhD and obvious as your target doesn’t achieve it elevates workload. Be prepared to work even after college hours or on weekends. 

Anyhow you have to complete your weekly or monthly workloads that’s the only formula to complete the doctorate in time. 

Studying PhD in different countries: 

Phd studies in the usa: .

USA- The United States of America is one of the most popular destinations for higher educational studies like PhD or doctoral. Highly qualified experts and professors, state of the art instrumentation and lab set ups, more facilities for students and more career options after the degree are the reason why everyone wants to go to the USA for doing the PhD. 

In addition to this, the universities across the USA are highly ranked and reputed one and the whole PhD study system is so smooth. 

A graduate or master’s degree holder can apply directly to different universities to get admission. Personal interview requires the research proposal showing the possible rough draft of the research. 

There are two ways to get into the PhD in the USA either directly through MPhil or through the entrance examination. International students also need to clear the english proficiency test too. 

Top universities to study PhD in USA: 

• Harvard university
• Stanford university 
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology 
• University of California, Berkeley 
• Columbia University 
• University of California, Los Angeles 
• Yale University 
• University of Pennsylvania 
• Princeton University 
• Cornell University 
• New York University 
• University of CHicago 
• Duke university 
• John Hopkins University 

If you want to learn more read this article: PhD in USA- Admission, Process, Universities, Salary and Jobs .

Study PhD in India: 

Getting a PhD is a tougher job but is more structured in India. Common entrance exams like NET, SLATE or GATE add additional toughness to the degree. 

MAster’s degree with a minimum of 55% marks can apply for the PhD, though every student needs to clear the entrance exam before enrolling. Coursework is also compulsory to go head in the degree. 

Top universities to study PhD in the India:  PhD in India- Fees, Duration, Scholarship and Universities .

• Indian Institute of science 
• Indian Institute of  Technology Bombay 
• Indian Institute of Technology Delhi 
• Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
• Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee
• Delhi university 
• Allahabad university  

Study PhD in UK: 

The UK is another famous destination for higher studies. The PhD study system is a bit different than others which gives more weightage to research. Prospective students’ research background is taken into consideration for PhD. 

Besides, graduation, post-graduation, MPhil and course work is needed to get the ticket to PhD. 

Top universities to study PhD in the UK:  How much does a PhD Degree Cost in the USA, UK and India?

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge 
• University of London
• University of Edinburgh 
• University of Manchester 

Conclusion: 

I think these reasons are enough to convenience you to study PhD. If you are still in a dilemma, trust me the PhD isn’t for you. Make your mind, put negativity on hold and go for it. 

Select the topic you love, choose the technique you like the most and sharpen your knowledge and skills. If you are a newbie and want to learn more about PhD, you can read this article: What is PhD?- for beginners . 

Dr. Tushar Chauhan is a Scientist, Blogger and Scientific-writer. He has completed PhD in Genetics. Dr. Chauhan is a PhD coach and tutor.

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The Pros and Cons of Getting a PhD

Getting a doctorate is a decision that will impact both your personal and professional life for many years to come. In this blog, we explore the benefits and drawbacks of attaining a doctoral degree, aiming to provide you with an unbiased view to help you make an informed decision.

Why Consider A PhD?

The benefits of a phd.

When it comes to enhancing your knowledge and contributing to your chosen field, few pathways can match the depth of a PhD. The benefits of a PhD extend beyond mere academic gains – they permeate each dimension of your professional enhancement.

1. Mastery in Your Field A PhD equips you with comprehensive knowledge about a specific area, amplifying your analytical, critical thinking and research skills to a level far beyond what a bachelor’s or a master’s degree could offer.

2. Opportunity for Ground-breaking Research As a PhD student, your primary role is to create new knowledge. The sense of fulfillment derived from contributing something novel to your field can be incredibly rewarding.

3. Networking Opportunities During your PhD program, you'll attend conferences and seminars, presenting you with opportunities to mingle with like-minded individuals, renowned academics and industry professionals, expanding your professional network substantially.

4. Enhanced Career Prospects With a PhD, a broader horizon of career opportunities opens up. You become a university professor, a leader in research organizations, or even a policy-maker influencing critical decisions in your field.

Practical Reasons to Get a Doctorate Degree

1. Societal Impact PhD holders can influence policy, promoting changes that positively impact society at various levels.

2. Teaching Opportunities For those passionate about educating others and impacting future generations, a Doctorate degree is often a prerequisite for higher-level academic positions.

3. Potential Higher Earnings A direct benefit of a PhD is the possibility of higher earnings over the course of your career, although this can vary considerably depending on the field.

The Flip Side: Challenges of a PhD 

Just like any significant endeavor, getting a doctorate comes with its fair share of challenges.

The Cons of a PhD

1. Time and Financial Commitment A typical PhD can take 4-7 years to complete. Not only does this require a substantial investment of your time, it can also strain your finances. While scholarships and stipends may alleviate some costs, there is the foregone income to consider as well.

2. Pressures and Stress Levels The demands of a PhD — meticulous research, endless writing and frequent presentations — are often high. The intense pressure can lead to stress and burnout.

3. Work-Life Balance The long hours often required to complete a PhD can lead to a blurring of lines between work and personal life.

Practical Disadvantages of a Doctorate Degree

1. Over-Qualification Depending on your field, you might find potential employers outside academia who view you as overqualified, thus narrowing your pool of job opportunities.

2. Limited Practical Experience Dependent largely on theoretical work, a PhD sometimes lags in offering industry-specific training, which some employers may seek.

3. Opportunity Costs You should consider alternative achievements you might forego during the years spent on your PhD. This includes work experience, career progression, or even personal life events.

Making an Informed Decision: PhD or Not?

Deciding whether or not a PhD is worth it for you is a deeply personal decision, highly dependent on your long-term career goals and current life situation.

Evaluate your reasons to get a doctorate degree. 

• Are you genuinely passionate about research?
• How essential is a PhD for your career aspirations?
• Are you ready for the financial implications?

Have you considered the opportunity cost? 

Seeking advice from PhD holders, mentors, and career advisors can offer valuable insights in answering these questions.

The decision to pursue a PhD is undoubtedly complex and multifaceted. It requires careful consideration of both the benefits of a doctorate degree and its potential disadvantages. Ultimately, though, it is a personal decision. What is very clear is this: when used as a stepping stone for specific career goals, a PhD can be an exceptionally powerful tool.

learn more about what it takes to get a PhD

Explore our guide How to Get a PhD: A Guide to Choosing and Applying to PhD Programs. 

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Health, Brain, and Cognition Lab

Persistence pays: successful applicant to a clinical psychology phd. program tells what it’s like.

In the Voss lab, we have a diverse range of graduate students earning a PhD in either Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuroscience, or like our newest graduate student addition Liam, in Clinical Science. Applying to a PhD program can be incredibly confusing as the process varies depending on the program type and the specific school. For the sake of this post, I will be focusing on the application process to clinical psychology (aka clinical science) programs specifically. 

Clinical psychology PhD programs are unique as they can produce individuals who conduct research, practice as a clinician, or do a little bit of both in a multitude of settings. This is unlike a Master’s program where the training is much shorter and allows graduates to practice just as a clinician or requires additional training in a PhD program to be able to conduct research. Further, PsyD programs are similar to PhD programs, however they differ as their primary focus is on clinical practice and typically produce sole clinicians. The combination of training to reach expert levels in both clinical work and research conduction is specific to clinical psychology programs. 

Clinical psychology programs are rigorous and commonly last 6 years where 5 years are a combination of classes, clinical work, research, and working on and defending your dissertation. The 6 th year is spent ‘on internship’ where an in-depth clinical training experience, typically at a different institution, takes place. It is common to find clinical psychologists in academic medical centers, hospitals, colleges, or universities, primary or secondary education schools, and private practices. Whether conducting research in a laboratory setting or working with patients in a clinical setting, clinical psychologists typically work in the realm of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in a range of individuals (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). 

Each program will provide students with clinical and research training, but each program has its own training model: some schools emphasize research relatively more than clinical training, clinical over research, or have an even split between the two. Deciding where to apply typically depends on one’s career goals. When applying, the applicant technically first must meet the requirements of the program although they are more so applying to a specific lab within the program. The options of where to apply can be limited depending on the application cycle as: 1) the school must have a clinical psychology training program, 2) the lab one is interested in needs to be accepting a student (labs do not take a student every year, typically due to funding), and 3) the lab should ideally fit with the applicant’s prior experiences and/or research interests. In my experience, I have seen clinical programs report receiving anywhere from 300-800 applications. The number of applications a program receives is the cumulative number of applications each lab at the school receives that year. On average, I have seen schools report taking cohort sizes of around 8-12 students. Typically, specific labs say that they receive at least 100 applications and usually have spots for only 1 or 2 students. Averaging these numbers makes a 1.8% chance of being accepted into a program and about a 1% chance of being accepted into a specific lab (this is the number that matters as you have to be accepted into a lab to be in the program). 

The application process can be expensive costing anywhere from $30 to more than $100 per application. In my experience, individuals apply to upwards of 8-12 schools but I have heard of individuals applying to as many as 20 schools in a given application cycle. Additionally, with the odds of being admitted into a program being so low, it is typical to not get accepted the first or even second time applying to programs, making repeat applicants common. To be as competitive as possible it is recommended (not required) to have postbaccalaureate research experience. Typically, you need to be in this position long enough to produce independent research projects to present as a poster or an oral presentation at national or international conferences. Additionally, it is common to see individuals with first author publications. Getting these experiences typically takes 2+ years with substantial time dedicated to research. 

Filling out applications is not a streamlined process. Each program has its own unique application form. In addition to asking for basic information such as your name, address, schools attended, classes taken, GPA, etc., it is standard for programs to ask for transcripts, 3 letters of recommendation (at least one is expected to be written by the supervisor of a lab you worked in or supervisors from clinical experience), a curriculum vitae, and perhaps the most important piece, the personal statement. 

The personal statement is typically 2-3 pages where you explain  why  you are interested in earning a PhD in clinical psychology,  what   area of research you’d like to pursue,  why   you are applying to this particular program and lab, and  how  your past experiences fit this narrative. This is perhaps the most important part of the application process, and it can take months to come up with a final draft. This statement typically has slightly different requirements per school and certainly needs to be unique to the lab you are applying to. This is an opportunity to convince the lab that you have experiences that relate to their work and offer a unique perspective that wins you an interview. For this reason, it is good to identify programs you are most interested in early, being the summer and the fall before you apply, so that you can reach out to the lab and the program. This ensures the lab you are interested in is taking a student this cycle and to assess your fit.

I personally found it impactful to email early, keep it short by briefly mentioning who I work with, my career goals, the broad scope of my projects, what I hope to do in graduate school in relation to their lab specifically, and find a way to include a fact that will help them remember me! For example, for one of the labs I ended up interviewing with, I mentioned how I am familiar with their work as the Voss Lab modified one of their cognitive computer tasks that I know well as I have administered and scored it. 

Typical due dates for clinical psychology applications are either November 15 th or December 1 st . Once materials are submitted, schools will reach out within a month or two. At this point, more and more labs are conducting ‘preliminary interviews’ where you ‘interview’ to get a spot for the official interview day, which can be virtual or in person. 

Given you are lucky enough to be offered a spot at one program or a few, it is time to decide if their stipend, program, research, location, etc. will be something you are happy with for at least 5 years. If you do not get any offers, it is time to decide if you want to go through this again and if so, start preparing for next year. 

As a multi-time applicant, I believe I made the biggest impact on my application in between the 2022 and 2023 application cycle (the most recent cycle). Everyone’s journey into a PhD program is unique and there is no one correct way to get in, which can be frustrating. In my personal experience the accomplishments that were most positively commented on by interviewers were: my diversified lab experiences, my submitted co-first author paper, giving a presentation at a high-profile conference in my field, submitting my first grant (National Science Foundation- Graduate Research Fellowship Program), and my plethora of experiences with research participants and clinical populations. Lastly, my network of individuals who are currently in PhD programs, are in the field of clinical psychology or related fields, or those who are just great at writing, has grown. Because of this, I was able to receive numerous different perspectives on how to best convey my experiences in a persuasive, clear, and professional way. I cannot thank all of the participants, patients, mentors, friends, and family enough who have supported me in my journey of applying to PhD programs!

Kelsey Baller has recently been accepted into the clinical psychology PhD program at Washington University in St. Louis. A graduate of the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a minor in Spanish, she has worked as a post-baccalaureate research assistant at the Health, Brain, and Cognition Lab for the past three years.

Melia Granath-Panelo (G3, Kajimura Lab)

Where are you from and what do you enjoy most about your hometown?

I am originally from the Bay Area, CA, but my parents moved to Sacramento CA when I was young, and then I moved back to the bay for undergrad and lived there for 6 years until I came to Boston. The food and the natural beauty of the CA coastline are my favorite parts for sure. The restaurants are excellent and there’s so much variety, and the fresh produce from local groceries and farmers markets is unparalleled.

What is your research focused on? 

My research is focused on understanding how angiogenesis (the process of new blood vessel growth) occurs in our fat tissue after adrenergic stimuli such as cold exposure cause or contribute to the generation of beige fat cells, which are more metabolically active than the normal fat cells that we typically think about. The blood vessels that surround each cell are intrinsically important to cell function, but there’s a lot that we don’t know about what causes them to grow and how fat cells communicate to the vasculature.

What is your favorite part of your research?

I currently am doing a lot of whole-tissue microscopy and imaging, and creating pretty pictures is really satisfying. I also appreciate that my work contributes to the notion that the adipose is *way* more than just a storage organ—it is involved in everyday things that we do such as eating, exercising, and even sleeping. I have a deep personal interest in food and nutrition, and I enjoy bridging my personal interest in these topics with my specific research project and general field of study.

How do you relax when you’re not working?

I love baking, mainly sourdough bread, but am getting more into pastry. I also enjoy cooking and I have a recent goal to try to cook with ingredients I’ve never used before. I fervently explore the local restaurant/bakery scene and like to try new foods. Aside from all things food, I enjoy salsa dancing with friends, exercising, reading (mainly fiction), playing the piano, watching movies, and am trying to learn Spanish.

Tell us about an activity outside of lab you’re involved in and why it’s important to you

I serve on the leadership teams of the Harvard Graduate Women in Science and Engineering, and the Boston chapter of Nucleate, a student organization that aids in biotech company acceleration. In both of these roles, I work initiatives that promote the advancement of women in science. I also volunteer to mentor 6th-12th grade students and judge projects as part of the Massachusetts science fair program. Science fairs were my first exposure to science, and it’s important to me that kids are getting encouragement and support in STEM from an early age.

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