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Getting a PhD is like leveling up in your favorite e-Sports competition and joining the big leagues.
Less than 2% of the world's population has a PhD, and getting one isn't for those who are faint of heart.
The first step in your journey is deciding if you want to be a PhD student. Asking yourself essential questions about your priorities will help you make the decision.
Passion
1. How passionate are you about your course of study?
You'll be spending a lot of time researching, writing, and talking about it for the rest of your life, so you'd better be sure you genuinely love it.
Your goal as a PhD student is to complete significant and original research in your chosen field.
If you can't match Amy's enthusiasm from Big Bang Theory in the GIF above, you should reconsider.
Did you know?
Research scientists, university professors, medical scientists, clinical psychologists and economists need a PhD to hold a position in their field. In other careers, a PhD might be helpful but not necessary.
Commitment
2. Are you 100% ready to commit?
In a doctoral program, you're expected to work on your own for long periods of time. It takes around six years (or longer) of consistent studies to earn a PhD.
You'll need self-motivation, determination, and the ability to stay focused without relying on others.
If you crave intellectual challenges, this is the way:
However, if you have trouble receiving criticism, consider a different path.
Debt
3. How will you pay for the PhD?
Will you get scholarships and grants, or do you have to take out loans?
Is there a stipend, health insurance, or research funding included?
How long does the financial assistance last?
When your acceptance letters start rolling in, read the funding section carefully and compare all your offers.
If your dream school didn't give you the best package, try negotiating for an increase.
Did you know?
"Fully-funded" doesn't mean free. You'll likely have to pay for fees, books, and living expenses and you might be asked to teach in exchange for tuition and stipend.
Career
4. What are your career goals?
Ask yourself:
Is a PhD necessary?
Will it get you higher pay or better work conditions?
Will another degree (a Masters or a Professional Doctorate) be more beneficial?
If the research you'll do in your PhD program will help you achieve your career goals, then go for it!
Quiz
Sherlock isn't sure what or where he wants to study. He knows he wants to stay in school, and his plan is to enroll first and figure out everything else later. What should be consider? Select all options that apply:
Due to the cost and intensity of the PhD program, Sherlock should wait until he identifies his goals. He could write the professors at a local college and ask to audit or visit a few lectures until he can find something that resonates with him. He should definitely consider the cost of a PhD program and his motivation for staying in school.
Did you know?
More education doesn't necessarily mean more money. Most PhDs only earn a 3% salary premium over their peers with a Master's degree. Check out this table with PhD salaries prepared by the University of Michigan.
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This Byte has been authored by
Anita Damjanovic
Customer Education Specialist | Educator
PhD