How to choose whether to do a PhD or a doctorate

This blog post aims to provide insights on how to choose whether to do a PhD or a doctorate. 

Choosing between a PhD and a doctorate degree can be a challenging decision that requires careful consideration of multiple factors. While both degrees offer a high level of expertise in a specific field of study, there are key differences in terms of time commitment, cost, and career opportunities.

Moreover, the decision to pursue a doctoral degree is a long-term investment that can significantly impact your personal and professional life.

Want to know exactly how a PhD differs from a doctorate degree? Read our handy guide:

In this blog post, we will discuss some important factors to consider when deciding whether to pursue a PhD or a doctorate degree and provide guidance to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Define your goals and objectives  

The first step in choosing whether to do a PhD or a doctorate is to define your goals and objectives. You need to consider the career path you want to pursue and whether the PhD or doctorate will help you achieve your goals. PhD programmes are research-oriented and mainly focus on academic careers, while doctorate programmes are practice-oriented and focus on professional careers. 

Evaluate your skills and qualifications  

Before pursuing a PhD or doctorate degree, it is essential to evaluate your skills and qualifications. You need to have a strong academic background, excellent research skills, and a passion for your field of study to succeed in a PhD programme. Doctorate programmes require a different set of skills, including practical experience, leadership, and problem-solving skills. 

Consider the time and cost involved  

Pursuing a PhD or doctorate degree requires a significant investment of time and money. PhD programmes typically take between four to six years to complete, while doctorate programmes typically take between three to five years, but can take longer. The cost of tuition fees is also a significant consideration. You need to weigh the cost of pursuing a PhD or doctorate against the potential benefits. 

Research your options  

Once you have evaluated your goals, skills, and qualifications, and considered the time and cost involved, the next step is to research your options. You need to consider the universities that offer PhD or doctorate programmes in your field of study. You should also research the faculty members, research opportunities, and funding options available at each university. 

Weigh up your options with our guide to the pros and cons of PhDs and doctorate degrees:

Talk to professors and industry professionals  

Talking to professors and industry professionals is an excellent way to gather more information about PhD or doctorate programs. You can ask them about their experiences, the challenges they faced, and the benefits of pursuing a PhD or doctorate. They can also provide you with valuable insights into the job market and career opportunities. 

Consider the reputation of the university  

The reputation of the university where you pursue your PhD or doctorate is crucial. You need to consider the ranking of the university, the faculty members, and the research opportunities available. A reputable university can provide you with more opportunities and open more doors in your career. 

The University of Portsmouth’s Global DBA is part of the Faculty of Business and Law, where the focus is on creating, sharing, and applying knowledge to make a positive impact on individuals and society.

Our teaching is nationally and internationally recognised for its excellence, receiving accreditation from professional bodies such as the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD). Our expertise spans most areas of law, business, and management. 

Conclusion

Choosing whether to pursue a PhD or doctorate is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. You need to evaluate your goals, skills, qualifications, and consider the time and cost involved. Researching your options and talking to professors and industry professionals can provide you with more information to make an informed decision. The reputation of the university where you pursue your PhD or doctorate is also crucial.  

Interested in pursuing a Global Professional Doctorate in Business Administration? The University of Portsmouth's part-time, online programme can help you solve organisational challenges in your workplace: