Should You Get a PhD?

A doctorate degree can open career doors that were previously shut to you. Many people who pursue a doctorate degree do so because they want to teach at the university level and they need a degree to do so. However, you may also need to doctorates degree to lead a clinical research lab, become a school administrator, or to further advance in your field. Going back to get the degree may take time and sacrifice on your part, but the hard work will be worth the effort.

Deciding If a Doctorate’s Degree Is Right for You

First, you need to determine what your ultimate career goal is. In some cases, it may not make much sense to pursue the degree, because it is not going to help you achieve your career dreams. However, there are many fields of study and research that having the degree will open up the doors that you need.

You may want to take time to talk to people who are working in your field and to learn how they feel about earning their degree and the path that they took to get it.

Choosing a Program that Works for You

When going back for your doctorate degree, you may already be working full-time and you may not want to quit completely to pursue your degree. Some schools do offer the option for you to pursue the degree part-time, but it really depends on your program and school. You may need to quit working and pursue the degree full-time, especially if there is a research portion that must be completed in a lab along with it.

Doctorate programs can take between three to six years depending on the field of study. Many teachers can continue to work while getting a doctorate in education, but if you are pursuing a doctorate degree in chemistry you may need to take classes on-site and full time. Research the best programs in your field of study and then begin applying to your top choices.

Paying for Your Doctorate Degree

Graduate school can be expensive, but you may qualify for financial aid. You will qualify to take out student loans from the government, but you will not qualify for Pell Grants. However, your school may offer you an assistantship to help cover the costs of tuition and living expenses.

Additionally, you may be able to work out a deal with your current employer where they will cover your costs if you agree to work with them after graduation for a set number of years. While you are in school you will need to reduce your living expenses so that you do not have a lot of debt when you graduate.

Getting Your Family on Board

If you are thinking about going back to school, you need to make sure that your family is supportive of your decision. Your spouse and children will be making just as many sacrifices as you will. You will not have as much extra time to spend with them. You may also be making financial sacrifices, and it is very important that your spouse or partner be on board with your decision when you make it.

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