Southern Nazarene University

Why Pursue a Ph.D.?

Overview

A Doctor of Philosophy, or Ph.D., is the highest research-oriented degree that anyone can earn. Due to the extensive effort that one must put forth to obtain a doctorate, less than one percent of the population attains one. The purpose of a Ph.D. is to demonstrate mastery of a particular field; this is done through intensive research and study. The majority of students are able to receive funding in the form of teaching and research assistantships to cover the cost of continuing their education.

A Ph.D., is extremely prestigious. Society needs individuals with this high level of education to solve problems and help enhance the lives of others. The more knowledge a person has on a certain subject, the more a person can influence policy and help advance the study of science, humanities and technology for future generations.

Upon entering a Ph.D. program, a student can expect to complete coursework as they being for formulate a research topic. Doctoral students work with a faculty advisor (or several) that help in this process and become a key in successfully completing their degree. A dissertation, or major research project, is required and take up a significant portion of time. Being focused, efficient and motivated are necessary to make it through a program. It’s a lot of hard work, but individuals who are passionate about their field of study are generally able to navigate the process, maintain and ultimately emerge as an expert in their field.

There are numerous options for employment upon attaining a Ph.D. Many people choose to pursue careers as professors in an academic setting. Alternatively, research-oriented positions in government and private industry can also be an option. In many cases, a Ph.D. is required to hold leadership positions in a variety of organizations from non-profits to private companies. Still other people choose to be self-employed and work as consultants in their specific fields. The possibilities are open with a Ph.D.

Here are several questions to consider:

• Are you passionate about a particular area of study?

• Are you eager to discover new things?

• Do you wish to become more intellectually engaged in a certain field?

• Are you goal-oriented and self-motivated?

• Do you have determination?

• Does your career goal require an advanced degree for optional mobility?

• Are you willing to accept the challenges that go along with achieving a Ph.D.?

The process of achieving a Ph.D. takes time and commitment. A student should want to obtain one through passion, desire and determination to learn more professionally advance in their field. Depending on which field of study a student chooses to pursue, the paths one can take may be very different in terms of their education and types of research they engage in. For example, in biology, a student will spend the majority of their time working in a lab, while a history student will spend most of their time reading and gathering information. These difference can continue on into the student’s professional life after they earn their Ph.D.