Introduction to Week 1

Welcome to Week 1 of Is a PhD Right for Me?

This week is devoted to the decision about whether to pursue doctoral study. Through the topics listed below, we aim to help you answer the questions: Why do I want to study for a doctorate? Could I manage the years of study financially? What would the impact of years of study have on my family and living situation? Have I prepared for this big step?

The Basics

• What is a PhD and what routes to a doctoral degree are available?
• Who does a PhD? Does it matter what my background or current situation is?
• Why do a PhD? What will my career options be? How will I benefit personally?

There’s more variety than you may be aware and doctoral study is available for anyone who has the aptitude, the passion and the commitment.

What practical matters are important to consider?

• Can I study for a PhD in a different field from my previous degrees or work experience?
• What do I need to know if I’m an international student?

Everything to do with doctoral study is individual. Your experience, background, interests and goals will be different from others, and we try to offer perspectives that are relevant to a wide range of potential students.

Finance and Funding

• Can I afford it?
• What kinds of funding might be available to me?

Finance and funding are enormous concerns, but there are options. We explore some of these this week and give you some pointers to additional resources.

By the end of Week 1, you will have been introduced to fundamental information and you will have had an opportunity to reflect on and share how this all relates to your own situation. You will also have begun keeping a record of your thoughts, calculations and notes and started gathering links to additional resources for continuing to explore.

Discussion Points:

• To kick us off, please share why you’re here on this course.

Be sure to read and reply to other learners’ posts and comments. You might find some similar situations.