at what age is it too late to start a PhD?

Question

I'm 35, and am planning to start a PhD in history, with a view to holding a position of collection responsability in a museum. I would hope to have successfully completed by the age of 40. Is this too late to develop a carreer in the museum/heritage world?

Answer 1

The only time you're too old to stop learning is when you are dead. The museum industry is full of old things. I don't think that your age will have any impact on your carreer.

Answer 2

I agree with Professor X. I also wish to either get into museum work or historical research. I've looked into and applied for many jobs in the museum industry to no avail - I've found that you need at least a Masters in museum/curatorial/heritage studies or similar. Full time, these will only take a year and is better than taking 3-7 years on a Ph.D. Alternatively, you could do it part time and this would only take you two years. However, if you really wish to do a Ph.D., there are Museum Studies courses that go up to that level - you just have to do your research into local and distance courses. The University of Leicester is one of the main and top universities for this subject (and have a website updated every Friday with new museum jobs) and they have distance learning programmes if you are not in the area. They also have a new course in Interpretive Studies which looks interesting! I would do this rather than history if this is the area you want to go into, as Professor X is right - to do a PhD. in history would usually lead to a university career.

Finally, to answer your question, no, it's never too late to do something you want to do in life. Is it worth speaking to your local council and getting involved in volunteering (in your local museums) to gain experience. This can be crucial as this is not an easy sector to get into!! I'm doing this right now - I'm helping out on a local costume collection project which is extremely interesting!!

Anyway, I really hope I have been of some help to you. It's never too late to continue studying (I know people on my course who have retired and want to keep learning!). People change careers all the time these days as it is a lot easier. Just go for it! :-) Good luck and let me know how you got on. :-)

Answer 3

no, i dont think so. I think the main elements to consider are: can you afford it? can I perform excellently in my courses while i work? Can i work while I go to school? Will the degree lead to a rise in my salary that covers the cost of the PHd? Which school gives me the greatest clout so i can be paid better, or i learn better the material i am interested in?

The last question is really important; for example, dont apply to any school. By now you probably realize that certain schools are ranked higher in the history program than others; of course, graduating from the one of the schools at the higher end of the list is much more beneficial than graduating from one of the lower schools.

Besides, the schools that are higher on the list provide you with better support through more well developed student services; in addition, the professors have a better reputation as being industry leaders and have more impressive accomplishments. This means that as a student of theirs, you will benefit from their experience and the knowledge from a person who has proven to be successful to a high degree in your field of study.

Answer 4

First, it is not too late.

Second, have you considered programs in Museum Studies / Curatorial Studies? These are usually Masters programs and can be completed much more quickly. They are also a much more direct route toward employment.

A PhD in history is usually for students who wish to teach at the university level, and frankly, it usually takes a bit longer than five years to complete a doctoral program in history.

Best wishes to you!

Answer 5

It's never too late!
My cousin went back to school to become a dentist at the age of 40. He has been happily practicing dentistry now for 10 years.
You go!!!!

Answer 6

Of course not! It's never to late to follow your dreams and interests. The best doctor I've ever worked for didn't begin persuing her education at all until she was in her mid 30s.

Answer 7

Good for you. Go for it! I wish you the very best. You are never to old to improve on yourself.

Answer 8

Nope - do it!

It's always a good time to do something you love, isn't it?

Best of luck!

Answer 9

never too late. good for you.

Answer 10

it is NEVER too late. please continue to make your dream come true.
my best wishes are with you!