PhD
A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities and higher education institutions to a candidate who has submitted a thesis or dissertation, based on extensive and original research in a specific field. The details of a PhD program vary depending on the subject you’re studying the professor(s) you work with, and the University you are attending.
However, in general, a PhD is the highest level of degree a student can achieve in a specific subject. It usually follows a master’s degree, although some institutions also allow students to progress straight to a PhD from their bachelor’s degree.1https://www.topuniversities.com/blog/what-phd
What type of individual usually gets this degree?
A PhD is considered by some to be the pinnacle of academic achievement. It represents years of commitment to extensively researching, and studying a specific academic field. And after, you can be called a “Doctor” and a specialist in a subject.
Since a PhD takes a lot of time and hard work, it is important that you are deeply passionate about the subject you are studying. Individuals that get a PhD typically wish to continue their education at the highest level to best prepare them for their respective industry and/or want to become a professor of that subject at a university.
Necessary things to know about a PhD:
How long does it take to complete?
Varies depending on the program, but usually somewhere between 3-6 years
What exams do I need to take before applying?
What experience is expected from PhD applicants?
Bachelor’s degree required. Often a Master’s degree is also required or strongly suggested, but some programs allow students to go directly from completing undergrad.
Additionally, PhD’s involve a lot of research under a specific professor so having experience researching in a relevant field of study (or even for the specific professor you are studying under) can help your application a lot.
Average salary/tuition of a PhD?
A nice thing about a PhD, compared to other graduate school programs, is that you usually do not have to pay! The university covers your tuition and pays you a modest stipend/salary.
Average pay is between $15k-$30k per year.
What skills are you expected to gain from a PhD program?
What do people usually do after getting their PhD?
A lot of PhDs become a professor, however, for those that wish to leave academia, there are plenty of opportunities in their respective industry.
What are some challenges of doing a PhD program?
- A PhD won’t necessarily help you get a job, unless it is research/academia related since many jobs do not require such an advanced degree.
- Spending all of your time focusing on your field of study for a long time can be overwhelming.
- Seeing your friends and colleagues already receive their second or third promotion by the time you’ve finally finished your PhD can be difficult.
- Prospective employers may view you as overqualified and under experienced, especially if you try to venture outside your specific field of research.
- These programs do not pay well, compared to other full-time jobs for undergraduate/master’s degree graduates.2https://www.postgrad.com/blog/the-pros-and-cons-of-getting-a-phd/
What are some benefits of doing a PhD program?
- You get to be called a Doctor!
- Learn to take (sometimes harsh) criticism from your professor and others when presenting your research findings.
- Will gain strong research and analytical skills (if in a research/analytical based program).
- Intellectually satisfying, since this is the highest academic degree one can achieve.
- You will be a recognized expert in your field through your degree and papers/research you write.
- Some jobs actually require you to have a PhD or equivalent.
- Extensive opportunity to continue learning. If you pick a field that you enjoy this is a fantastic way to deeply immerse yourself in the subject matter.
Should I get a PhD?
Getting a PhD is not easy. It takes a lot of work, and a lot of academic achievement in order to get the opportunity. However, if you have a serious interest in a subject, and want to research and work closely with experts in the field, you should consider continuing your education through a PhD.
Working as a PhD student is not a job for making money. It can be a stepping stone to a successful and comfortable career, but the type of people that thrive in the position are people that have a vested interest and passion in the field they wish to study in. Furthermore, it is absolutely crucial to have a good relationship with your PhD research advisor as they will be a source of wisdom and guidance when you inevitably run into problems in your work. While a PhD position is often considered “being paid to be a student”, the responsibility of learning usually falls on you because the subject area you are investigating is usually on the forefront of the field and is not being taught widely in the classroom.
The day to day responsibilities vary greatly depending on what field you are working in, and depending on where your funding for research is coming from (the department you’re apart of, your phd advisor, or a fellowship) there may be additional responsibilities that you need to take on such as being a Teaching Assistant or a Research Assistant or doing paper work for the department.
If you decide to do a PhD, it has to be because you are interested in research, and more specifically what you are doing work in. If you are doing a PhD for prestige or for a better job you will not be satisfied.
And hey, being called a Doctor is kind of nice too!
Think we are missing important information? Had trouble understanding some sections of this page? Anything else you are still wondering about? Please let us know on the feedback page!