Why to go for a doctorate aka PhD?

Question

At this time, I am confused whether I should go for phd or a job. I hold a computer engineering degree and my interest is in research. But I m not sure if it's better to pursue a phd course. What key benefits do I get after investing three years in achieving doctorate? What will be the life after phd? Will it be too academic? Will my earnings be substantially higher? I would like to know why should I go for PHD for reasons other than my inner desire for research and phd?

Answer 1

You can ask some random people on Yahoo, or you could go over to your college IT dept and ask the professors who have or do not have PhDs.

Where do you think you will get the best, most meaningful answers?

Answer 2

Unless you want to be a college professor or you just want the prestige of being called doctor, there is no point. In fact, I have found it more difficult getting a job with even a masters degree. People hiring computer people just do not want to pay the extra that the higher degree would seem to demand.

Of course, there are a few exception, but in general I would advise against a PhD in computer science.

Answer 3

Stereotypically, with a PhD you expand your employment chances from private industry to universities also. That could be "academic", you would probably get hired to do research and they would also have you teaching classes (thats academic lol).

I'm assuming you have a master's now (or almost have one) in computer engineering. Typically in engineering a master's opens the door to research opportunity. Ask yourself 'what more can I learn in 3 years?'

Answer 4

Usually for more money, but you can become overqualified for jobs with too much education. My sister is facing that problem right now and she only has a Master's degree. Some people consider it an accomplishment to receive a PhD...it's the highest form of education. If it's your desire, go for it.