This blog post aims to provide insights on how to choose between a PhD and other types of doctorates. 

Choosing between a PhD and other types of doctorates can be challenging and involves multiple factors. All doctorate degrees offer a high level of expertise in a specific field of study, but there are key differences in terms of time commitment, cost, and career opportunities. 

Moreover, pursuing 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 other doctorates? Read our handy guide: 

Important factors to consider

In this blog post, we will discuss some important factors to consider when deciding whether to pursue a PhD or another type of doctorate 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 another type of doctorate is to define your goals and objectives. Consider the career path you want to pursue and whether a PhD or another doctorate will help you achieve your goals.

PhD programmes are research-oriented and mainly focus on academic careers, while professional doctorate programmes are practice-oriented and focus on professional careers. 

Evaluate your skills and qualifications  

Before pursuing a PhD or another type of doctorate, 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. Professional doctorate programmes require a different set of skills, including practical experience, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. 

Consider the time and cost involved  

Pursuing a PhD or another type of doctorate requires a significant investment of time and money. PhD programmes typically take between four to six years to complete, while professional doctorates usually 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 another 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. Look into the universities that offer PhD or other doctorate programmes in your field of study. 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 other doctorates: 

Talk to professors and industry professionals  

Talking to professors and industry professionals is an excellent way to gather more information about PhD or other doctorate programmes. You can ask them about their experiences, the challenges they faced, and the benefits of pursuing a PhD or another type of doctorate. They can also provide 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 professional doctorate is crucial. 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 another type of doctorate is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Evaluate your goals, skills, and 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 professional 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: