Can you go back for your PhD?

Remember too that not all PhDs lead to academic careers. A doctorate could be a great route into longer term university research, but plenty of alternatives are available. Going back to university for a PhD doesn’t mean you need to stay there.

What time of year does a PhD start?

Research funders and universities have varying timescales for their calls for applications. Entry to a UK doctoral programme may be available at any time of year, but many will start at the beginning of the academic year in October.

When is the best time to apply for Graduate School?

If you’re reading this during your junior year or earlier, then you still have time to apply for graduate school immediately following college. Many graduate programs have deadlines as early as October, especially for doctorates.

Is it too late for me to get a PhD?

True, it is never too late to advance your professional career or your personal fulfillment with a PhD. With two important caveats. First, you properly understand the time, cost, and job prospects. Second, that if your goal is to enter elite programs and advance the research frontier, I think this gets tougher as you get older.

How many years does it take to get a PhD degree?

If you have an MA already, you might get away with a 2-3 year PhD at some universities (e.g. the UK), though almost never in the US. Plan on a minimum of 5 years, and more likely 6-8 depending on your discipline. At best your program will cover your tuition and living expenses, and you won’t graduate with debt.

Should you go to graduate school right after college?

There are many benefits to pursuing graduate school immediately following college. As we said, the sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll finish. Graduate school is a long haul, and an early start can help reduce the effect of prolonged study on your personal life.