How to Choose the Right PhD Programme

Choosing the right PhD programme isn't just about finding a course to study; it's about committing to a transformative journey of extended research and producing an original contribution to knowledge.

Unlike undergraduate or even Master's degrees, selecting the right PhD requires more careful consideration and insight. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to choose a PhD programme, step by step.

A PhD typically spans three years or more and can become monotonous if you're not deeply interested in your research topic. Each step in this guide encourages you to take your time and be methodical.

Cultivating this ability to be systematic and diligent when searching for a doctorate is excellent preparation for actually doing one. Remember, patience at this stage will pay off throughout your doctoral journey.

Before finding the right doctorate, you need to understand the different types of PhDs available:

• Advertised projects: Common in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Medicine (STEM) subjects; these projects are offered within established labs or research groups. They typically come with defined objectives and funding, making them a structured pathway.
• Self-proposed projects: More common in Arts, Humanities, and some Social Sciences; you select your own topic and propose it to a university or supervisor. This type offers more freedom and creativity but requires a well-defined research proposal and often entails sourcing your own funding.
• Professional doctorates: Vocational subjects such as Business and Management often award specialised qualifications like the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration). These are suited for individuals aiming for high-level professional practice rather than academic careers.

The subject you wish to research will help narrow down the type of doctorate you should pursue. Also, think about your career aspirations post-PhD. Whether you want to remain in academia, transition to industry, or enter public service, your choice will influence the kind of doctorate you should opt for.

Choosing a PhD topic means finding one that is specific but has the right scope for a three to four-year project. Ensure your project has clear objectives and is something you are passionate about. It should be feasible within the allocated time frame and resources.

Confirm that your PhD idea is both original and worthwhile. Use resources like our PhD search tool to compare current projects. This can offer insights into the research landscape in your field. Investigate if there are existing gaps in the literature that your research could fill, and assess the potential impact of your findings.

Get a taste of what working in your research area is like. Read recent papers or journal articles on your topic to understand what you’ll be engaging with over the next few years. Attend conferences or workshops to immerse yourself in the academic community and current debates within your field.

When choosing the right university, consider the research environment it offers. Look at the facilities, postgraduate community, and support systems available for doctoral research. The environment should foster your academic growth and provide ample resources for your research needs.

The student-supervisor relationship is crucial during a PhD. Supervisors guide your research journey, so it's essential to get this relationship right. Make sure to find out about potential supervisors before committing. Meet with them to discuss their approach to supervision, research interests, and expectations.

Envision yourself completing your PhD and consider your career aspirations. Opportunities for PhD graduates are diverse, including academic and non-academic pathways. Think about your options before starting. A PhD can open doors to high-impact roles in research, policy-making, industry, and more.

You may also like...