Getting a PhD is a major undertaking that requires years of intense study, research, and dedication. For some, obtaining a doctoral degree is a lifelong dream and achievement. For others, the time, effort, and sacrifice required give them pause. Here we’ll examine the reasons why getting a PhD is considered such a big deal.
The commitment involved
Pursuing a PhD demands an immense amount of time and effort. In the United States, it usually takes between 5-7 years to complete a doctoral program, though it can take longer. This involves several years of intense coursework, qualifying exams, research, proposing and defending a dissertation, and more. It is not uncommon for PhD students to spend over 80 hours a week on their studies.
This level of commitment means putting one’s personal life largely on hold. It can be difficult to maintain relationships or pursue other interests with the all-encompassing workload. The intellectual rigor and solitary nature of research can also take a psychological toll.
Further, doctoral students typically live on very modest means. Most PhD programs offer a stipend for teaching or research, but this is usually just $20,000-$30,000 per year. Taking on debt is often necessary. After graduation, some choose to postpone earning a higher salary for years to continue in low-paying academic positions.
In short, getting a PhD requires immense personal sacrifice and delayed financial gratification. It is anything but easy.
The knowledge gained
A PhD program aims to push students to the most advanced frontier of human knowledge in their field. Doctoral research is about making an original, meaningful contribution that expands the boundaries of the discipline.
To do this, students engage in years of intense study at the highest academic level. They take advanced graduate seminars, read widely within their field, and work closely with faculty mentors. Their research requires analyzing existing literature, understanding research methods, and synthesizing large amounts of information.
In the process, they gain expertise that few others can match. The depth of knowledge and analytical ability gained in a PhD program are truly exceptional.
The career impact
Getting a PhD opens some career doors that would otherwise be closed. Here are some of the advantages it can provide:
- Teaching and research positions at colleges and universities. Tenure-track professorships almost always require a PhD.
- Advanced research roles in think tanks, government agencies, and private companies.
- Higher salaries. On average, PhDs earn substantially more over the course of their career than those with master’s or bachelor’s degrees.
- The ability to work independently and make major contributions in one’s field of expertise.
Of course, not everyone needs a PhD to have a fulfilling and lucrative career. But for some professions, like becoming a professor, having a doctoral degree is essential.
The prestige
Rightly or wrongly, having the title of “doctor” carries prestige in our society. PhDs are looked to as experts and given a degree of respect for their advanced education. Academia especially values the status of the PhD.
Some enjoy this social status and sense of intellectual superiority. Critics argue that the prestige of the PhD can be elitist, and that education does not necessarily equate to being ‘better’ than others. However, it is undeniable that it provides membership into an intellectual community.
This factor should not be the primary motivation for pursuing a doctorate. But for some, the distinction of belonging to the highest educated tier of society adds appeal.
The rite of passage
Finally, getting a PhD has symbolic value as an ultimate “rite of passage” into an academic discipline or intellectual community. It represents mastering the highest level of scholarly rigor. The intense process of research and writing a dissertation is akin to an intellectual marathon.
Successfully defending a dissertation often involves an emotional sense of pride and accomplishment. Family and friends recognize the achievement with graduation ceremonies and doctoral hooding rituals. There is a palpable sense of transitioning into a new phase of life.
In this light, the PhD takes on profound personal meaning. For some, achieving this pinnacle of education solidifies their identity and life’s purpose.
Conclusion
So, is getting PhD a big deal? There are good arguments on both sides.
On the one hand, it demands an immense personal investment over many years. The career prospects do not always justify the costs and sacrifices. For some careers, like research, it is essential. But it is not inherently necessary to live a happy, successful life.
On the other hand, relatively few people possess the discipline, perseverance, and intelligence to earn a PhD. It signifies joining an intellectual and social elite. Mastering novel research to advance human knowledge is a laudable achievement. Done for the right reasons, it can be incredibly meaningful on a personal level.
There are thoughtful cases against pursuing ever-higher academic credentials. But for those who have completed the long, difficult journey, obtaining a doctoral degree is certainly a big deal.