5 Reasons to Get a PhD

Making the decision to pursue your doctorate can be daunting, as getting a PhD is no simple feat. If you’re trying to decide if it’s the right path for you, consider these reasons why you should get a PhD.

You can make a difference through research.

Yes, getting your Ph.D. is a lot of work that includes countless hours of research and sacrifice of life’s normalities. But it’s what you do with all of that research that makes it worthwhile. Whether you’re pursuing a research Ph.D. degree in Biology, Mathematics, Francophone Studies, Systems Engineering, or any other field, you can make an impact on the world through the work that you do.

You might use artificial intelligence to more accurately and quickly forecast floods, work on developing ways to produce nutritious vegetables in space, or even discover a new species of marine life.

Pursuing your Ph.D. can help you advance the world’s knowledge and make a difference in the lives of others.

You can become an expert in the field.

Earning your doctorate means that you have expert-level knowledge in your chosen field. You should get a Ph.D. because you’re passionate about a particular subject and are ready to exponentially expand your understanding of that topic through research.

And remember, that voice in your head that doubts if you can complete a Ph.D.? Totally normal. Imposter syndrome in graduate school is common, but there are ways you can combat its effects.

You can broaden your career opportunities.

Today’s job market is competitive. With more and more students earning bachelor's and even master’s degrees, earning your Ph.D. will set you apart from the pack.

If you want to pursue a career in academia as a researcher or a professor, then you’ll most likely need a Ph.D.

Earning a Ph.D. will also make you more qualified for all kinds of industry jobs. Through your graduate studies, you’ll develop the skills that employers value and are seeking in new hires.

Your academic training will give you top-notch critical thinking skills, and you’ll finesse your communication and presentation skills, too. By progressing through your research and completing your dissertation, you’ll prove that you can manage long-term projects at the same time as short-term goals.

You can increase your salary.

While you may have to make some financial sacrifices during graduate school, the opportunity for a higher salary in the long run can make the investment worth it.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with a doctoral degree can expect higher earnings and lower unemployment rates compared to those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

During graduate school, you may also have the opportunity to obtain fellowship or graduate assistantship funding, which can help keep your finances stable while you complete your degree. Savvy financial planning in grad school can help put you on the right path to reach your personal and professional goals.

You can reach your full potential.

Earning your doctoral degree will help you build the skills and resilience to tackle complex problems and persevere despite any obstacles that may come your way. You’ll gain opportunities and experiences that you wouldn’t otherwise have access to, and you’ll realize your own capability.

So, is getting a Ph.D. worth it? The process will require great effort and dedication, and it’s not a path that’s meant for everyone. But if you enjoy a challenge, are looking for a greater purpose, and like research, earning your Ph.D. is something you should consider.

Looking for more information to help guide your decision to get a doctorate? Learn more about our Ph.D. programs >