5 Reasons to Get a PhD
Making the decision to pursue your doctorate can be daunting, as getting a PhD is no simple feat. If you鈥檙e trying to decide if it鈥檚 the right path for you, consider these reasons why you should get a PhD.
You can make a difference through research.
Yes, getting your Ph.D. is a lot of work that includes countless hours of research and sacrifice of life鈥檚 normalities. But it鈥檚 what you do with all of that research that makes it worthwhile. Whether you鈥檙e pursuing a research Ph.D. degree in Biology, Mathematics, Francophone Studies, Systems Engineering, or any other field, you can make an impact on the world through the work that you do.
You might use artificial intelligence to more accurately and quickly forecast floods, work on developing ways to produce nutritious vegetables in space, or even discover a new species of marine life.
Pursuing your Ph.D. can help you advance the world鈥檚 knowledge and make a difference in the lives of others.
You can become an expert in the field.
Earning your doctorate means that you have expert-level knowledge in your chosen field. You should get a Ph.D. because you鈥檙e passionate about a particular subject and are ready to exponentially expand your understanding of that topic through research.
And remember, that voice in your head that doubts if you can complete a Ph.D.? Totally normal. Imposter syndrome in graduate school is common, but there are .
You can broaden your career opportunities.
Today鈥檚 job market is competitive. With more and more students earning bachelor's and even master鈥檚 degrees, earning your Ph.D. will set you apart from the pack.
If you want to pursue a career in academia as a researcher or a professor, then you鈥檒l most likely need a Ph.D.
Earning a Ph.D. will also make you more qualified for all kinds of industry jobs. Through your graduate studies, you鈥檒l develop the skills that employers value and are seeking in new hires.
Your academic training will give you top-notch critical thinking skills, and you鈥檒l finesse your communication and presentation skills, too. By progressing through your research and completing your dissertation, you鈥檒l prove that you can manage long-term projects at the same time as short-term goals.
You can increase your salary.
While you may have to make some financial sacrifices during graduate school, the opportunity for a higher salary in the long run can make the investment worth it.
, those with a doctoral degree can expect higher earnings and lower unemployment rates compared to those with a bachelor鈥檚 or master鈥檚 degree.
During graduate school, you may also have the opportunity to obtain , which can help keep your finances stable while you complete your degree. can help put you on the right path to reach your personal and professional goals.
You can reach your full potential.
Earning your doctoral degree will help you build the skills and resilience to tackle complex problems and persevere despite any obstacles that may come your way. You鈥檒l gain opportunities and experiences that you wouldn鈥檛 otherwise have access to, and you鈥檒l realize your own capability.
So, is getting a Ph.D. worth it? The process will require great effort and dedication, and it鈥檚 not a path that鈥檚 meant for everyone. But if you enjoy a challenge, are looking for a greater purpose, and like research, earning your Ph.D. is something you should consider.
Looking for more information to help guide your decision to get a doctorate?
