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I am currently an assistant professor of speech at a small university, but I only have a Masters degree. I have come to the realization that (a) if I want to advance in my chosen career I will need a PhD, and (b) an online PhD is not going to happen. Therefore, I am probably going to end up leaving my job at some point and pursuing an PhD. For anyone who works or has experience in academia, would it be better for me to build up more experience in the job I am in for a few years and then go on for a PhD, or just go ahead and make the move?

2007-03-10 13:08:21 · 2 answers · asked by Greg T 2 in Education & Reference Higher Education (University +)

2 answers

Go ahead and apply for 2008.

One or two additional years of experience will not count for very much in terms of PhD admissions, although it might help later in terms of hiring. But it seems to me that you won't be able to advance where you are now without a PhD, so why rack up the additional years of employment? Do the doctoral work while you're still young enough to endure the privation.

Your great advantage right now is that you have SOME experience, and are gainfully employed. This gives you the leisure to apply this year, and the year after if need be, and be selective about which program you choose. Of course, you'll want to follow the money. (A fellowship or assistantship with full tuition remission.)

I would venture that if your GREs are superb, you'll be an extremely strong candidate for fellowships.

I wish you every success.

2007-03-10 15:15:11 · answer #1 · answered by X 7 · 0 0

Apply, but you won't have to quit your job.

I know a lot of people who took and are taking PhDs, and have spoken to them extensively about how they pay for it.

They tend to teach when taking the PhD, part time. They tend to be paid while teaching. Many don't have any prior experience, and in the USA they don't have masters when first applying. (in the UK things are different).

Those who do have prior experience, it isn't always academic.

From what you said, the only reason to wait before starting your PhD is if you can't get funding and need to save up money. Or, if after you apply you don't get an offer you're satisfied with, stick it out and apply again next year.

2007-03-11 15:15:45 · answer #2 · answered by dude 5 · 0 1

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