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What is a PhD?

• A PhD is a higher degree which leads to the award of Doctor of Philosophy
• It is a research-based degree where you investigate something new
• Usually takes 3 years (full -time)
• You could earn ~£15k per annum (tax free)
• Requires a good honours degree

 

Postgraduate student, Stuart Morris, working on his Kayak

 

Key differences to undergraduate study

• Not like a taught first degree, you will need to be able to self manage and self motivate
• More like a job than a taught degree but with potentially a great deal of freedom in
  • hours you work
  • direction of your research
• You get to put Dr in front of your name
• You may have a project already lined up
• May also require external (eg industrial) involvement

What’s involved?

• No typical PhD, but you might . . .
  • spend 6 – 18 months exploring the subject
  • spend 12 – 18 months developing and implementing tests / trials / experiments
  • spend 3 – 6 months writing up
  • submit thesis
  • Viva (oral) examination

Why do it?

• Three years of guaranteed income
• Genuine pleasure as you “see the light”
• Excellent opportunities for networking (academically, industrially, institutionally)
• Exceptionally valuable, transferable skills
  • ability to communicate and innovate effectively
  • proven ability to manage your own time effectively
  • proven ability to think innovatively
• Differentiation from your peers