hold phd degree

What is a PhD?

• Types of Doctorates
• A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest globally recognized postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award.
• PhDs are awarded to candidates who undertake original and extensive research in a particular field of study.
• Full time PhD programmes typically last three to four years, whilst part time PhD programmes typically last six to seven years.
• A PhD can lead to an academia teaching role or a career in research. A PhD can also equip you with skills suitable for a wide range of jobs unrelated to your research topic or academia.

Definition of a PhD – A Doctor of Philosophy (commonly abbreviated to PhD , Ph.D or a DPhil ) is a university research degree awarded from across a broad range of academic disciplines; in most countries, it is a terminal degree, i.e. the highest academic degree possible.

PhDs differ from undergraduate and master’s degrees in that PhDs are entirely research-based rather than involving taught modules (although doctoral training centres (DTCs) offer programmes that start with a year of lecture-based teaching to help develop your research skills prior to starting your project).

In most English-speaking countries, those that complete a PhD use the title “Doctor” (typically abbreviated to Dr) in front of their names and are referred to as such within academic and/or research settings. Those that work in fields outside of academia may decide not to use the formal doctor title but use post-nominal letters (e.g. John Smith PhD); it’s unusual though for someone to use both the Doctor title and post-nominal letters in their name.

PhD vs Doctorate

A PhD and a professional doctorate are both research-based terminal degrees.

However, where a PhD focuses on original research mostly around theoretical concepts, a professional doctorate focuses on examining existing knowledge to solve real-life, practical problems.

While there is much crossover between the two, a PhD is generally better suited for an individual to wants to advance the knowledge and understanding in their field, and a professional doctorate degree is better suited to a working professional who wants to better be able to apply knowledge and understanding to their field.

What Are the Entry Requirements for a PhD?

To be accepted on to a PhD programme, students usually need to hold at least a high ( 2:1 and above ) undergraduate degree that is related to the field of research that they want to pursue. A PhD candidate may also be expected to hold a Master’s degree , however, this does not mean you must have one, as it is still possible to enrol into a PhD without a Master’s .

Self-funded courses may sometimes be more relaxed in relation to entry requirements. It may be possible to be accepted onto a self-funded PhD programme with lower grades, though these students typically demonstrate their suitability for the role through professional work experience.

Whilst a distance learning project is possible , most PhD candidates will carry out their research over at least three years based at their university, with regular contact with two academic supervisors (primary and secondary). This is particularly the case for lab-based projects, however, some PhD projects require spending time on-site away from university (e.g. at a specialist research lab or at a collaborating institution abroad).

How Long Does a PhD Take?

Typically, full-time PhDs last 3-4 years and part-time PhDs last 6-7 years. However, at the discretion of the university, the thesis writing-up period can be extended by up to four years.

Although most doctoral programmes start in September or October, they are generally much more flexible than taught-courses and can start at any time of the year.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

Tuition fees for UK and EU students vary between £3,000 and £6,000 per year, with the average tuition fee of £4,712 per year for 2023/24 programmes.

Tuition fees increase considerably for international students, varying between £16,000 to £25,000 per year, with an average tuition fee of £19,600 per year .

Nonetheless, most students will secure PhD funding in the form of studentships, scholarships and bursaries to help pay for these fees. These funding opportunities can either be partial, which cover tuition fees only, or full, which cover both tuition fees and living expenses.

UK national students can also apply for Doctoral Loans from Student Finance England if they are unable to secure funding.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

What Does a PhD Involve?

To be awarded a PhD, a doctoral student is required to produce a substantial body of work that adds new knowledge to their chosen field.

A PhD programme will typically involve four key stages:

Stage 1: Literature Review

The first year of a PhD involves attending regular meetings with your supervisors and carrying out a search on previously published work in your subject area. This search will be used to produce a literature review which should set the context of the project by explaining the foundation of what is currently known within the field of research, what recent developments have occurred, and where the gaps in knowledge are. In most cases, this will be an extension of your research proposal should you have produced one as part of your application. The literature review should conclude by outlining the overarching aims and objectives of the research project. This stage of setting achievable goals which are original and contribute to the field of research is an essential first step in a successful PhD.

The supervisor is the main point of contact through the duration of a PhD – but remember: they are there to mentor, not to teach, or do it for you . It will be your responsibility to plan, execute and monitor your own work as well as to identify gaps in your own knowledge and address them.

Stage 2: Research

The second year (and prehapse some of your third year) is when you work on your research. Having identified novel research questions from your review of the literature, this is where you collect your data to help answer these questions. How you do this will depend on the nature of your doctoral research: for example, you may design and run experiments in a lab alongside other PhD students or visit excavation sites in remote regions of the world. You should check in regularly with your supervisors to update them and run any ideas or issues past them.

Have the structure and chapters of your thesis in mind as you develop and tackle your research questions. Working with a view of publishing your work will be very valuable later on.

Stage 3: Write up of Thesis

The next key stage of a PhD is writing a doctoral thesis , which typically takes from anywhere between three months to one year. A thesis is a substantial body of work that describes the work and outcomes of the research over the previous two to three years. It should tell a detailed story of the PhD project – focusing on:

• The motivations for the research questions identified from the literature review.
• The methodologies used, results obtained, and a comprehensive analysis and discussion of the findings.
• A detailed discussion of the key findings with an emphasis on the original contributions made to your field of research and how this has been impactful.

There is no universal rule for the length of a PhD thesis, but general guidelines set the word count between 80,000 to 100,000 words.

For your thesis to be successful, it needs to adequately defend your argument and provide a unique or increased insight into your field that was not previously available.

Stage 4: Attending the Viva

A viva voce , most commonly referred to as just a ‘ viva ‘, is an interview-style examination where the PhD student is required to engage in a critical appraisal of their work and defend their thesis against at least two examiners. The examiners will ask questions to check the PhD student has an in-depth understanding of the ideas and theories proposed in their thesis, and whether they have developed the research skills that would be expected of them.

The viva is one of the final steps in achieving a PhD, and typically lasts at least two hours, but this duration can vary depending on the examiners, the university and the PhD project itself.

Once you have done the viva – you’re on the home stretch. You will typically be asked to make some amendments to your thesis based on the examiner’s feedback. You are then ready to submit your final thesis for either:

• PhD – If you pass the requirements you will be awarded a PhD degree (most common outcome),
• MPhil – If you failed to meet requirements for a PhD, you may be downgraded to an MPhil degree (uncommon outcome),
• Fail – No award is given, typically for cases of plagiarism (extremely uncommon outcome).

What Is It Like to Undertake a PhD?

We’re often asked what it is like to undertake a PhD study. Unfortunately, this isn’t a simple answer to this question as every research project is different.

To help give insight into the life of a PhD student, we’ve interviewed PhD students at various stages of their programmes and put together a series of PhD Student Interviews . Check out the link to find out what a PhD is like and what advice they have to offer you.

What Are the Benefits of A PhD?

A PhD is the highest globally recognised postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award. The degree, which is awarded to candidates who demonstrate original and independent research in a particular field of study, is not only invaluable in itself, but sets you up with invaluable skills and traits.

Career Opportunities

First, a PhD prepares you for a career in academia if you wish to continue in this area. This takes form as a career in the Higher Education sector, typically as a lecturer working their way to becoming a professor leading research on the subject you’ve studied and trained in.

Second, a PhD also enables the opportunity for landing a job in a research & development role outside of the academic environment. Examples of this include laboratory work for a private or third sector company, a governmental role and research for commercial and industrial applications.

Transferable Skills

Finally, in possessing a PhD degree, you can show to employers that you have vital skills that make you an asset to any company. Three examples of the transferable skills that you gain through a PhD are effective communication, time management, and report writing.

• Communication – presenting your work in written and oral forms using journal papers and podium presentations, shows your ability to share complex ideas effectively and to those with less background knowledge than you. Communication is key in the professional environment, regardless of the job.
• Time management – The ability to prioritise and organise tasks is a tremendous asset in the professional industry. A PhD holder can use their qualification to demonstrate that they are able to manage their time, arrange and follow a plan, and stick to deadlines.
• Report writing – Condensing three years of work into a thesis demonstrates your ability to filter through massive amounts of information, identify the key points, and get these points across to the reader. The ability to ‘cut out the waffle’ or ‘get to the point’ is a huge asset in the professional industry.

Aside from the above, you also get to refer to yourself as a Doctor and add fancy initials after your name!

What Can I Do After a PhD?

One of the most desirable postdoctoral fields is working within independent Research and Development (R&D) labs and new emerging companies. Both industries, especially R&D labs, have dedicated groups of PhD graduates who lead research activities, design new products and take part in crucial strategic meetings. Not only is this a stimulating line of work, but the average salaries in R&D labs and emerging start-ups are lucrative. In comparison, an undergraduate with five years of experience within their given field will, on average, likely earn less than a new PhD graduate taking on a R&D position.

It’s a common misunderstanding that PhDs only opens the door for an academic career such as university lecturers and training providers. Although obtaining a PhD opens these doors, the opportunities extend far beyond educational roles. In fact, recent data from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) indicates only 23% of PhD graduates take a position in educational roles . This low percentage is primarily because PhD graduates have a wide range of skills that make them suitable for a broad spectrum of roles. This is being seen first hand by the increasing number of PhD graduates who are entering alternative roles such as research, writing, law and investment banking.

How Do I Find a PhD?

We appreciate that finding a PhD programme to undertake can be a relatively daunting process. According to Higher Education Student Statistics , over 22,000 PhDs were awarded in 2016/17 within the United Kingdom alone. Clearly there are a huge number of PhD programmes available. This can sometimes be confusing for prospective doctorates, particularly when different programmes are advertised in different places. Often, it is difficult to know where to look or where to even start. We’ve put together a list of useful sources to find the latest PhD programmes:

• A great place to start is with our comprehensive and up-to-date database of available PhD positions .
• Assuming you are still at university, speak to an existing PhD supervisor within your department.
• Attend as many postgraduate open days as you can. Whilst there, speak to current PhD students and career advisors to get an awareness of what PhDs are on offer.
• Visit the postgraduate section of university websites and the PhD Research Council section of the UKRI website.

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Ph.D. Degree?

Earning a Ph.D. from a U.S. grad school typically requires nearly six years, federal statistics show.

How Long It Takes to Get a Ph.D. Degree

Caiaimage | Tom Merton | Getty Images

A Ph.D. is most appropriate for someone who is a "lifelong learner."

Students who have excelled within a specific academic discipline and who have a strong interest in that field may choose to pursue a Ph.D. degree. However, Ph.D. degree-holders urge prospective students to think carefully about whether they truly want or need a doctoral degree, since Ph.D. programs last for multiple years.

According to the Survey of Earned Doctorates, a census of recent research doctorate recipients who earned their degree from U.S. institutions, the median amount of time it took individuals who received their doctorates in 2017 to complete their program was 5.8 years. However, there are many types of programs that typically take longer than six years to complete, such as humanities and arts doctorates, where the median time for individuals to earn their degree was 7.1 years, according to the survey.

Some Ph.D. candidates begin doctoral programs after they have already obtained master's degrees, which means the time spent in grad school is a combination of the time spent pursuing a master's and the years invested in a doctorate. In order to receive a Ph.D. degree, a student must produce and successfully defend an original academic dissertation, which must be approved by a dissertation committtee. Writing and defending a dissertation is so difficult that many Ph.D. students drop out of their Ph.D. programs having done most of the work necessary for degree without completing the dissertation component. These Ph.D. program dropouts often use the phrase " all but dissertation " or the abbreviation "ABD" on their resumes.

According to a comprehensive study of Ph.D. completion rates published by The Council of Graduate Schools in 2008, only 56.6% of people who begin Ph.D. programs earn Ph.D. degrees.

Ian Curtis, a founding partner with H&C Education, an educational and admissions consulting firm, who is pursuing a Ph.D. degree in French at Yale University , says there are several steps involved in the process of obtaining a Ph.D. Students typically need to fulfill course requirements and pass comprehensive exams, Curtis warns. "Once these obligations have been completed, how long it takes you to write your dissertation depends on who you are, how you work, what field you're in and what other responsibilities you have in life," he wrote in an email. Though some Ph.D. students can write a dissertation in a single year, that is rare, and the dissertation writing process may last for several years, Curtis says.

Curtis adds that the level of support a Ph.D. student receives from an academic advisor or faculty mentor can be a key factor in determining the length of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. program. "Before you decide to enroll at a specific program, you’ll want to meet your future advisor," Curtis advises. "Also, reach out to his or her current and former students to get a sense of what he or she is like to work with."

Curtis also notes that if there is a gap between the amount of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. and the amount of time a student's funding lasts, this can slow down the Ph.D. completion process. "Keep in mind that if you run out of funding at some point during your doctorate, you will need to find paid work, and this will leave you even less time to focus on writing your dissertation," he says. "If one of the programs you’re looking at has a record of significantly longer – or shorter – times to competition, this is good information to take into consideration."

He adds that prospective Ph.D. students who already have master's degrees in the field they intend to focus their Ph.D. on should investigate whether the courses they took in their master's program would count toward the requirements of a Ph.D. program. "You’ll want to discuss your particular situation with your program to see whether this will be possible, and how many credits you are likely to receive as the result of your master’s work," he says.

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Emmanuel C. Nwaodua, who has a Ph.D. degree in geology, says some Ph.D. programs require candidates to publish a paper in a first-rate, peer-reviewed academic journal. "This could extend your stay by a couple of years," he warns.

Pierre Huguet, the CEO and co-founder of H&C Education, says prospective Ph.D. students should be aware that a Ph.D. is designed to prepare a person for a career as a scholar. "Most of the jobs available to Ph.D. students upon graduation are academic in nature and directly related to their fields of study: professor, researcher, etc.," Huguet wrote in an email. "The truth is that more specialization can mean fewer job opportunities. Before starting a Ph.D., students should be sure that they want to pursue a career in academia, or in research. If not, they should make time during the Ph.D. to show recruiters that they’ve traveled beyond their labs and libraries to gain some professional hands-on experience."

Jack Appleman, a business writing instructor, published author and Ph.D. candidate focusing on organizational communication with the University at Albany—SUNY , says Ph.D. programs require a level of commitment and focus that goes beyond what is necessary for a typical corporate job. A program with flexible course requirements that allow a student to customize his or her curriculum based on academic interests and personal obligations is ideal, he says.

Joan Kee, a professor at the University of Michigan with the university's history of art department, says that the length of time required for a Ph.D. varies widely depending on what subject the Ph.D. focuses on. "Ph.D. program length is very discipline and even field-specific; for example, you can and are expected to finish a Ph.D, in economics in under five years, but that would be impossible in art history (or most of the humanities)," she wrote in an email.

Kee adds that humanities Ph.D. programs often require someone to learn a foreign language, and "fields like anthropology and art history require extensive field research." Kee says funding for a humanities Ph.D. program typically only lasts five years, even though it is uncommon for someone to obtain a Ph.D. degree in a humanities field within that time frame. "Because of this, many if not most Ph.D. students must work to make ends meet, thus further prolonging the time of completion," she says.

Jean Marie Carey, who earned her Ph.D. degree in art history and German from the University of Otago in New Zealand, encourages prospective Ph.D. students to check whether their potential Ph.D. program has published a timeline of how long it takes a Ph.D. student to complete their program. She says it is also prudent to speak with Ph.D. graduates of the school and ask about their experience.

Online Doctoral Programs: What to Expect

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Kristin Redington Bennett, the founder of the Illumii educational consulting firm in North Carolina, encourages Ph.D. hopefuls to think carefully about whether they want to become a scholar. Bennett, who has a Ph.D. in curriculum and assessment and who previously worked as an assistant professor at Wake Forest University , says a Ph.D. is most appropriate for someone who is a "lifelong learner." She says someone contemplating a Ph.D. should ask themselves the following questions "Are you a very curious person... and are you persistent?"

Bennett urges prospective Ph.D. students to visit the campuses of their target graduate programs since a Ph.D. program takes so much time that it is important to find a school that feels comfortable. She adds that aspiring Ph.D. students who prefer a collaborative learning environment should be wary of graduate programs that have a cut-throat and competitive atmosphere, since such students may not thrive in that type of setting.

Alumni of Ph.D. programs note that the process of obtaining a Ph.D. is arduous, regardless of the type of Ph.D. program. "A Ph.D. is a long commitment of your time, energy and financial resources, so it'll be easier on you if you are passionate about research," says Grace Lee, who has a Ph.D. in neuroscience and is the founder and CEO of Mastery Insights, an education and career coaching company, and the host of the Career Revisionist podcast.

"A Ph.D. isn't about rehashing years of knowledge that is already out there, but rather it is about your ability to generate new knowledge. Your intellectual masterpiece (which is your dissertation) takes a lot of time, intellectual creativity and innovation to put together, so you have to be truly passionate about that," Lee says.

Curtis says a prospective Ph.D. student's enthusiasm for academic work, teaching and research are the key criteria they should use to decide whether to obtain a Ph.D. degree. "While the time it takes to complete a doctorate is an understandable concern for many, my personal belief is that time is not the most important factor to consider," he says. "Good Ph.D. programs provide their students with generous stipends, health care and sometimes even subsidized housing."

Erin Skelly, a graduate admissions counselor at the IvyWise admissions consulting firm, says when a Ph.D. students struggles to complete his or her Ph.D. degree, it may have more to do with the student's academic interests or personal circumstances than his or her program.

"The time to complete a Ph.D. can depend on a number of variables, but the specific discipline or school would only account for a year or two's difference," she wrote in an email. "When a student takes significantly longer to complete a Ph.D. (degree), it's usually related to the student's coursework and research – they need to take additional coursework to complete their comprehensive exams; they change the focus of their program or dissertation, requiring extra coursework or research; or their research doesn't yield the results they hoped for, and they need to generate a new theory and conduct more research."

Skelly warns that the average completion time of a Ph.D. program may be misleading in some cases, if the average is skewed based on one or two outliers. She suggests that instead of focusing on the duration of a particular Ph.D. program, prospective students should investigate the program's attritition and graduation rates.

"It is worthwhile to look at the program requirements and the school's proposed timeline for completion, and meet current students to get their input on how realistic these expectations for completion are," Skelly says. "That can give you an honest idea of how long it will really take to complete the program."

Searching for a grad school? Access our complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

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What is a PhD Degree? [2024 Guide]

As you’re taking a look at potential grad school programs, you might be asking yourself, “What is a PhD degree?”

Understanding what a PhD is and what’s involved in earning one can help you decide whether to enroll in this type of doctoral program. You might decide that a PhD is a strategic step for you to take to further your career.

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If you choose to pursue a PhD, you’ll be glad to know that you can also earn this type of degree online through an accredited university.

What Is a PhD Degree?

After earning a bachelors degree and a masters degree, you may be considering taking your education even further.

The next step for you might be a Doctor of Philosophy degree, better known as a PhD. As a terminal degree, a PhD can set you apart as an expert in your field. Earning a doctoral degree is not a small undertaking. The process includes multiple steps and can last for several years.

Components of a Ph.D. degree program often include:

• Advanced courses in your chosen field
• Classes in research methods, data analysis, and scholarly writing
• Examination of current literature and studies related to your field
• Oral or written comprehensive exams
• Original research project—includes writing and defending a major paper about your research

The dissertation, sometimes known as a thesis, is usually the part of a PhD program that takes the longest. During the dissertation process, you’ll work under the supervision of a faculty advisor, often someone whose research interests correlate with yours. You’ll design a research project, carry it out, and write about your findings. This project is meant to contribute new ideas to your field.

A PhD is particularly suitable for students who love school settings and want to pursue academic careers. For instance, professors often have PhDs. It’s also common for scientists and other researchers to hold this type of degree. Outside of  academia, a PhD could set you apart as a knowledgeable leader in your field.

Benefits of a PhD Degree

Getting your PhD can be an incredible personal goal worth achieving. Plus, a degree at this level can offer many professional benefits, such as:

• Career advancement . As a person with a PhD, you may be considered an expert in your field. That could help qualify you for a variety of top roles within your line of work.
• Higher earnings . A job promotion or a new employer might offer you a higher salary.
• Networking . You can meet new people and build professional connections as you work toward a PhD.
• Preparation for becoming a professor . Universities typically prefer to hire faculty members who hold PhDs in their area of expertise.
• Research opportunities . Before you can earn your PhD, it’s necessary to complete an original research project called a dissertation. After completing your degree, you may have additional opportunities to contribute research to your field.

If you’re willing to put in the work, then getting your PhD could be worth the effort.

How to Know If a PhD Is Right for Me

Before you sign up for a PhD program, it’s helpful to carefully weigh the decision and make sure it’s the right choice for you. You might ask yourself the following questions:

• Am I willing to commit years to the process ? PhDs take at least 3 years, and most take longer than that.
• Do I want to carry out original research ? This is a research-focused degree, and the purpose is to contribute new ideas or theories to your field.
• Does an academic career interest me ? Many people get PhDs because they want to work in higher education as teachers or researchers. Those who plan to remain as practitioners often consider professional doctorates instead.

It can also be helpful to speak with faculty members and current students to get a feel for what you can expect from PhD studies.

Applying for a Ph.D: Education Requirements

It’s necessary to put in years of study before you can apply for a PhD program. Most students need to hold at least two degrees already. But, in some cases, one may be sufficient.

• Bachelor’s degree . All graduate programs require students to have earned a four-year undergraduate degree before enrolling in advanced studies. Most PhD programs don’t specify that your bachelors degree must be in the same field as your hoped-for doctoral studies, but it can help you move through a graduate-level program with more ease.
• Master’s degree . Colleges often expect students to have earned a master’s degree before applying for PhD studies, but some programs do allow students straight out of bachelor’s degree programs. Doing a master’s degree first can provide strong preparation for the advanced coursework, research, and writing that are required in doctoral programs.

It is often required that the degrees you have be from accredited colleges. It may also be necessary to meet a minimum GPA requirement, such as a score of 3.0 or higher. Some colleges prefer PhD applicants who have graduated from previous programs with honors.

Doctor of Philosophy: Admissions Requirements

Doctoral programs can be quite selective about whom they admit because they’re looking for capable students who can keep up with the demands of the program and contribute valuable new research to the field.

In addition to meeting the education requirements, you’ll also be required to turn in records that demonstrate your academic potential. Here are some common admissions requirements:

• College transcripts and professional resume
• Letters of recommendation from people who know you academically or professionally
• Statement about relevant background, research interests, or professional goals
• Proposal that presents the original research project you’d be interested in doing
• Scores from the GRE or GMAT (not always required)

You might also connect with the department’s faculty members and find someone who would be willing to serve as your academic supervisor for your dissertation. It’s beneficial for this person’s research interests to align with your own.

Some schools have you do this before admission, and others connect admitted students to supervisors later in the enrollment process.

What Does PhD Stand For?

PhD stands for “Doctor of Philosophy.” It doesn’t mean that you’ve studied philosophy at the highest levels. Rather, the word “philosophy” in the name refers back to ancient Greek. It implies that you are someone who loves and seeks wisdom and knowledge.

You can get a PhD in many different subject areas—such as a Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics or a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. PhD students explore their chosen field of study in great depth. They also learn how to conduct original research, and they undertake major research projects. By graduation, they are considered experts in their fields.

What Do You Learn in a Doctoral Degree?

In a PhD program, you’ll learn about your chosen area of study, such as biology or sociology. You will also study a niche area within that field in great depth.

Research is a significant topic in any PhD program. Your courses might include topics on:

• Advanced statistics
• Dissertation preparation
• Literature review
• Quantitative and qualitative methods
• Research methodology

These research-focused classes may be tailored to your particular area of study, such as research methodology in the social sciences or advanced statistics in criminal justice research.

What Can You Do with a PhD Degree?

Many people earn PhD degrees because they want to teach at the college level. This degree is often required for tenured faculty positions at universities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that most postsecondary teachers earn between $46,690 and $172,130 each year. Research scientists often hold PhDs as well. Examples include medical scientists, biochemists, and physicists.

Additionally, there are some career paths that require a doctorate for licensure. For instance, clinical and counseling psychologists usually need to receive training at the doctoral level before they can practice independently.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD?

Whether you’ll need a masters before you can begin the PhD process will depend on the program you choose.

Many PhD programs require a master’s degree as an admissions requirement. Completing a master’s program can provide a strong research and writing foundation that can help you during this advanced program. Other programs, though, let students enroll with only a bachelors degree.

There might be additional classes required to prepare you for working at the graduate level, so it may take a bit longer to complete your studies. For more information on whether you need a master’s to get a PhD , you can consult the admissions requirements of each program you’re considering.

Can You Get a PhD Online?

There are many online PhD programs available for aspiring students looking for flexibility. Some PhD programs are offered entirely online. You can take all of your classes online, and you can also receive guidance from your faculty advisor and defend your dissertation from afar.

Other programs are mostly online but require some in-person experiences. You might be asked to come to campus for a week or two of intensive study. Also, you may be asked to show up in person for your dissertation defense. Either way, online PhD studies are often more accessible for working professionals than fully on-campus programs.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

Students often spend 3 to 5 years completing a PhD program. Online programs sometimes include features like year-round classes and short course terms that encourage quick completion.

The shortest PhD programs typically do not involve writing a dissertation. There may be a different final assignment, such as a capstone project, instead. You might be able to finish one of those programs in about 3 years. Not all students finish within 5 years. Some spend around a decade on this massive undertaking. Some PhD programs set an upper limit for completion, such as 7 or 8 years.

Is a PhD a Doctor?

People with PhDs are considered experts in their fields, and the degree includes “Doctor” in its name. For that reason, PhD holders often use the title “Doctor.” A college professor, for example, might go by Dr. Smith.

Even still, there’s a difference between MD vs. PhD. A person who holds a PhD is not a medical doctor. Medical doctors earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree before becoming licensed to practice medicine. In most contexts, though, people refer to professionals with PhDs as “doctors.”

What Jobs Can You Get with a PhD?

People with doctorate degrees work in both academia and professional practice. Being a college professor is quite popular among people who hold PhDs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that a PhD can also be helpful for obtaining jobs in higher education administration, particularly as a dean or a provost.

PhD graduates may work in research as well. Research jobs are available with colleges, government agencies, and private institutions. Researchers are needed in many different fields, including biology, mathematics, computer science, and economics. PhDs also help people rise to the top in their industries, perhaps as chief executives.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

Some graduate schools charge just $300 to $400 per credit hour. Others may charge $2,000 per credit hour or more.

Per-credit-hour rates between $600 and $1,000 are quite common. It’s helpful to keep in mind that state universities often charge less for in-state residents than nonresidents. Your total number of credit hours may depend on how many years you spend working on your dissertation.

Some universities offer tuition-free PhD programs for qualifying participants. The students may even receive a stipend in exchange for research or teaching assistance. This arrangement is more common for on-campus programs than online ones.

What’s the Difference Between a Doctorate vs. PhD Degrees?

Is a PhD a doctorate degree ? For your terminal degree, you may have the choice between a PhD degree and a professional doctorate. While they are both doctoral degrees, they do have some differences.

Professional doctorates are sometimes a year or two quicker than PhDs, but that’s not always the case.

Is a PhD Worth It?

Yes, a PhD is worth it for many students. For one thing, holding a PhD could be the key to fulfilling your professional dreams.

If you want to be a professor, for instance, there’s a good chance that you’ll be required to have this advanced degree. Even if that’s not your ultimate goal, a PhD could be beneficial. The more education you have, the more your job security usually increases.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there’s an inverse relationship between education and unemployment. As education increases, unemployment rates decrease.

Getting Your PhD Degree Online

An exciting future as an expert in your field may await. You can earn a PhD to increase your knowledge, prove your capability, and contribute new ideas to your area of study. Getting this degree is an impressive accomplishment, and it may open new doors for your career. For convenience and accessibility, you might take a look at online PhD studies.

Many accredited colleges offer robust online PhD programs. You’ll get to take advanced courses and work with respected professors. An online program can also offer opportunities for completing a thesis or a doctoral project. You could graduate prepared to make a difference in your field.

Why not start exploring your options today?

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I hold a PhD degree.

• Thread starter omidnice
• Start date Sep 26, 2013

Senior Member

• Sep 26, 2013

"I hold a xxx degree" is correct, if it's been awarded to you. "I'm a sophomore" works quite well (and other analogues). Since all sophomores are students, we can drop 'student.'  

Yes, but " have " is used more often, in my experience. Yes, but you really don't need to say "student": I am a freshman at the University of Chicago .  

True, Miss J, as to 'have,' but there is the common expression 'degree holders' and no expression 'degree havers.'  

In my experience, people usually say "a PhD", without "degree". They say "a master's degree", because it is part of the name of the degree.  

In BE, "freshman/sophomore/junior/senior" are not used to qualify or indicate "student". (Actually, "freshers" is used but only in relation to a "freshers' ball" a dance/gathering at the very start of a univerity career.)  

Good point, Hildy: You'd say, "I hold a doctorate' or 'I hold a doctor's degree.' 'PhD degree' is a bit redundant. ADDED: See my post 10, below. Above I underestimated the commonness of "PhD degree." It's perhaps wordy, but neither problematic nor uncommon.  

• Sep 27, 2013

omidnice said: Thank you all for your remarks. Is it comprehensible and natural saying 'I am a student in the first/second/third/fourth year of my bachelor's program'? Click to expand...

Looking around the internet, I see the phrase "PhD degree" is rather common both in postings from institutions, and personal statements of individuals. So I want to amend my remarks, above, in post #8. While "I have a PhD" is perhaps most common, "I have a PhD degree" is fairly common, if a little wordy. http://www.ims.utoronto.ca/current/degree/overview.htm MSc and PhD Degree Requirements ==== http://answers.monster.com/v-science-q-clinical-scientist-jobs.aspx / How do I find "clinical laboratory scientist (CLS) trainee" jobs? Being laid off recently in my mid age, I am interested in applying for a CLS licensing exam. I believe I have the required coursework done (I have a PhD degree in physiology, and was working in research.../  

Egmont said: It's comprehensible, it's correct, but it would be more natural to say simply "I'm in the first/etc. year of my bachelor's program." You cannot be in a bachelor's program unless you're a student. There is no need to repeat this information. Click to expand...

Which countries have the most doctoral graduates?

At graduation ceremonies graduates celebrate by throwing their hats into the air. Image:  REUTERS/Fabian Bimmer

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Stay up to date:, switzerland.

Do you hold a doctorate? If the answer is yes, you’re among a small but increasing proportion of adults to have earned the highest degree awarded in academia.

Just 1.1% of 25- to 64-year-olds held a doctoral degree on average across OECD countries in 2018, according to the organisation’s Education at a Glance 2019 report.

Although, as the chart below shows, the share of the population with a doctoral degree varies significantly across OECD countries, from almost 4% in Slovenia to 0.1% in Indonesia.

Growing pool of doctoral candidates

When it comes to sheer numbers, the United States has the most doctoral graduates by far (71,000 in 2017), though it is ranked fourth in per capita terms. Germany and the United Kingdom are next with around 28,000 each.

Have you read?

How can we stem the tide of women graduates leaving science, if the master’s degree is the new bachelor’s, is the doctorate now the new master's, these are the most educated countries in the world.

Overall the number of doctorate holders is on the rise, growing by about 8% across OECD countries between 2013 and 2017, and in particular in Mexico, Spain and the United States.

If the current pace of growth continues then 2.3% of today’s young adults living in OECD countries will go on to study at doctoral level in their lifetime, the report says.

This is good news not only for doctoral graduates – who can expect relatively high employment rates and earnings in most countries, especially if they enter the private sector – but also for entire economies.

By advancing knowledge and research across academia and industry, doctoral students and doctorate holders can help make economies more innovative.

No wonder then that some countries try to attract more doctoral candidates with incentives such as charging lower fees (Australia, Italy and Switzerland) and recognizing them as employees rather than students (Norway and Switzerland).

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10 Better Ways To Say “I Have A Degree In”

When we say that we “I have a degree in” criminology, biology, psychology, etc., we are attempting to disclose or state that we have achieved a higher level of education. However, to say “I have a degree in” is incredibly commonly used and not the most professional statement.

What Can I Say Instead Of “I Have A Degree In”?

Instead of saying “I have a degree in” we can choose to use a more professional, alternative statement. This article will be highlighting the following statements, their meaning and how we can appropriately use them in a sentence:

• I graduated with a degree in…
• I majored in…
• My degree is in…
• I obtained a degree in…
• I studied X in university …
• I completed my studies in…
• I successfully achieved my degree in X…
• I earned a degree in…
• I’m an alumnus from X university…
• I received a degree in…

The preferred version that we will highlight in this article is “I graduated with a degree in”. This is because it is a formal way of stating that we have graduated and with a diploma in a specialized field of study.

We can easily follow this statement with the category of our degree and perhaps what school we have graduated from.

I Graduated With A Degree In

We can say “I graduated with a degree in” when we wish to express that we have successfully completed our schooling and have received a degree in a field of study. This is meant as a formal statement, where we are informing someone of our qualifications or accomplishments.

We will often say this when we are speaking in a professional interview or perhaps when we are beginning a presentation.

Here are a few examples of how we could appropriately use this term:

• Hi there , my name is Carly and I graduated with a degree in criminal justice and policing studies from Nipissing University.
• I graduated with a degree in economics from Harvard University and now I’m in the process of opening my own accounting firm.
• I just applied to York University and have aspirations to graduate with a degree in biology.

I Majored In

When we say “I majored in” we are disclosing that we have completed a degree in a particular subject at college or university. This particular phrase is commonly used by North Americans, Europeans and Australians – being a very English phrase in origin.

This is more of an informal phrase; however, it is still applicable in professional settings. This is more of a conversational statement, as opposed to something we would say in an interview.

Some examples of how we can properly use this term in a sentence are:

• I majored in drama and have aspirations of becoming an actress.
• I majored in earth studies at Arizona State and am hoping to get a job with the government.
• I majored in physics and took a minor in Computer Sciences.

My Degree Is In

Often, we’ll say “my degree is in” in response to the question of what specialized subject we completed our schooling in. This is meant as a proper and appropriate response, that we can choose to follow up with more information on the school we attended, if we achieved honours, etc.

This is a very direct way of responding to someone or even just stating the necessary information in a given situation.

To further clarify the use of this particular statement, here are a few examples:

• My degree is in anthropology, with my minor studies being in Sociology.
• My degree is in practical nursing and I’m hoping to receive an internship at Toronto General Hospital.
• I recently entered university and my degree is in psychology. I can’t wait to graduate someday and hopefully open my psychiatric practice.

I Obtained A Degree In

When we express that “I obtained a degree in” we are allowing someone to know that we have completed our schooling and have obtained our degree in a specialized area of study. This is another excellent example of a highly formal or professional statement.

This is another appropriate statement we could use for interview purposes, whether for a professional position or to further our schooling in the form of a doctorate study.

We will now go over a few appropriate ways we can use this statement in a sentence:

• I obtained a degree in psychology from the University of Victoria.
• I recently graduated from Trent University and I obtained a degree in animal biology.
• I obtained a degree in history with my minor studies in human geography.

I Studied X at In University

Another excellent alternative statement we can use is “I studied X in university”. When we say this, we are letting someone know that we studied in a particular subject or field of study in university. Letting them know we achieved a higher level of education.

We would often choose to follow this statement with information regarding if we did obtain a certificate or diploma and which school we attended.

Here are a few examples of how we can use this statement accordingly:

• I studied biology in university, with the hopes of one day becoming a veterinarian.
• I studied psychology in university, although I do not have any intentions of using my degree.
• Yes, I did graduate and I studied mathematics in university.

I Completed My Studies In

We can say “I completed my studies in” when we wish to depict that we did successfully conclude our studies, often meaning that we did graduate from university or college. We are also disclosing what our specific area of study was in.

To state that we have completed our studies showcases a high level of dedication and hard work, as successfully completing post-secondary schooling is no easy task.

We will now go over some specific examples that highlight this statement:

• I completed my studies in nursing and am now working at my local hospital in the emergency room.
• I completed my studies in biology, but I’m presently working at a dental office – I know, a little odd!
• I graduated last spring and I completed my studies in cultural studies and anthropology.

I Successfully Achieved My Degree In

Another phenomenal alternative phrase we can use is “I successfully achieved my degree in”. When we say “I successfully achieved my degree in” we are letting someone know that we did in fact graduate from school and have a degree in a specialized field of study.

This is another excellently formal and professional phrase to use in a workplace interview or presentation.

Some examples of this phrase used in a sentence are:

• I successfully achieved my degree in law and am currently working at a law firm in Boston.
• I successfully achieved my degree in culinary management, while also obtaining a minor degree in business. I am now working towards opening my own restaurant.
• I successfully achieved my degree in history and am now working as a teacher at my old high school.

I Earned A Degree In

When we say “I earned a degree in”, we are stating that we have finished our schooling and it resulted positively, with the achievement of a degree in a specific area of study. We would follow this statement with the correct information about our degree and possibly where we attained it.

To say that we have “earned” something is an accomplishment and a testament to our hard work and determination. Therefore, this formal statement is also somewhat of a humblebrag.

Here are a few examples that showcase the use of this specific statement:

• I earned a degree in mechanical engineering and I’m presently searching for a job in my field of study.
• I recently graduated with honours from McMaster University and I earned a degree in biochemistry.
• I earned my degree in psychology and am presently working towards obtaining my master’s degree.

I’m An Alumnus From X University

Another great alternative we can use is “I’m an alumnus from X university”. When we say that we’re an “alumnus” we’re expressing that we’re a former student or graduate from a specific school. Therefore, we’re formally allowing someone to know that we have successfully completed our schooling.

We can follow up a statement like this, with the appropriate information on our field of study, our minor, the year we graduated, etc.

We will now look at a few examples highlighting this specific statement:

• I’m an alumnus from Nipissing University and I graduated in 2015.
• I’ve been working as a doctor for the last ten years in Chicago, but I’m an alumnus from Navarro State University.
• I’m an alumnus from the University of New Brunswick, but I now live across the country in Vancouver, British Columbia.

I Received A Degree In

The last alternative that we will go over in this article is “I received a degree in”. When we say that “I received a degree for”, we’re essentially stating that because of our dedication to our studies, we’ve been rewarded with a degree in a specific field of study.

This is another formal way that we can express the completion of our schooling and the achievement of a degree. This is an excellent statement to use in an interview or just in a general conversation.

Lastly, we will go over the following examples, that all use this statement:

• I received a degree in practical nursing, after completion of four years of study and practical work in our local hospital.
• I received a degree in dental hygiene studies and I know work at my family dental clinic.
• I received a degree in police studies and community justice. I now hold a position at a women’s shelter in town and I genuinely love what I do.

You may also like: “Pursuing A Degree” – Meaning & Correct Usage (Helpful Examples) Undergraduate vs. Graduate vs. Postgraduate – Complete Guide “A MA” or “An MA” – Full Explanation (Helpful Examples) 9 Correct Titles for Someone with a Master’s Degree (Formal) DSc Degree vs. PhD Degree – What’s the Difference?

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

• “I Graduated” or “I Have Graduated” – Which is Correct?
• 8 Ways to Say You’ve Finished Your Bachelor’s Degree
• 10 Ways to Say You’ve Finished Your Master’s Degree Studies
• 8 Better Ways to Say “Master’s Graduate”

National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics

• All previous cycle years

The SED is an annual census of research doctorate recipients from U.S. academic institutions that collects information on educational history, demographic characteristics, graduate funding source and educational debts, and postgraduation plans.

Survey Info

• tag for use when URL is provided --> Methodology
• tag for use when URL is provided --> Data
• tag for use when URL is provided --> Analysis

The Survey of Earned Doctorates is an annual census conducted since 1957 of all individuals receiving a research doctorate from an accredited U.S. institution in a given academic year. The SED is sponsored by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) within the National Science Foundation (NSF) and by three other federal agencies: the National Institutes of Health, Department of Education, and National Endowment for the Humanities. The SED collects information on the doctoral recipient’s educational history, demographic characteristics, and postgraduation plans. Results are used to assess characteristics of the doctoral population and trends in doctoral education and degrees.

Areas of Interest

• STEM Education
• Science and Engineering Workforce

Survey Administration

The 2022 survey was conducted by RTI International under contract to NCSES.

Survey Details

Featured survey analysis.

Doctorate Recipients from U.S. Universities: 2022

SED Overview

Data highlights, the number of research doctorates conferred by u.s. institutions, which began a sharp 15-month decline in spring 2020 due to the covid-19 pandemic, rebounded in 2022 with the highest number of research doctorates awarded in any academic year to date.

Over the past 20 years, most of the growth in the number of doctorates earned by both men and women has been in science and engineering (S&E) fields 

Methodology

Survey description, technical notes, technical tables, questionnaires, view archived questionnaires, featured analysis.

Research Doctorate Conferrals Rebound, Leading to Record Number of U.S. Doctorate Recipients in 2022

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PhD Percentage by Country / Number of Doctorate Degrees per Country 2024

1. slovenia.

Slovenia is the highest-ranking country in the number of Ph.D. degrees earned by adults between the ages of 25 and 64. 5% of the entire population in Slovenia has a Ph.D. The distribution between Ph.D. adults in Slovenia finds more female doctorates than males. About 4.5% of adult females have a Ph.D., compared to about 3% of adult males in Slovenia.

2. Switzerland

Switzerland has the second-highest rate of Ph.Ds. globally, with nearly 3% of the adult population holding this advanced degree. In Switzerland, men are more likely to hold a Ph.D., representing 4% of the total doctorate population, compared to about 2.5% for female doctorates.

3. Luxembourg

In Luxembourg, 2% of the total population holds a Ph.D. There are several countries tied for 2% of the population with a Ph.D., and almost all of the highly educated countries are in Europe . In Luxembourg, 2.5% of Ph.D. holders are male, compared to 2% female.

4. United States

The United States is tied with European countries when it comes to being a highly educated population. About 2% of the U.S. population holds a Ph.D. Men are more likely than women to have a Ph.D. in the United States, with 2.5% of the Ph.D. candidates male and about 2% female.

Like other countries on our list, Sweden is tied with 2% of the total population holding a doctorate degree. In this country, males and females are just about equal when it comes to this advanced degree. Around 2.5% of males have a Ph.D., while 2.2% of females hold a Ph.D. in Sweden.

6. The United Kingdom

Rounding out our list of highly educated countries with the most Ph.Ds., the United Kingdom has about 2% of the population holding a Ph.D. In the United Kingdom, males and females are pretty close to equal in higher education. Males account for more Ph.D. degrees, with about 2.5%, while females are close behind with nearly 2.3% Ph.Ds.

Another European country on our list of the most Ph.Ds., Germany, has about 2% of its population with a Ph.D. This country sees a more significant discrepancy between males and females when it comes to higher education. About 1.75% of males account for Ph.Ds. awarded, while only about 1% of females have their Ph.D. in Germany.

8. Australia

Breaking up the stranglehold at the top of our list between Europe and the United States, Australia makes the list with the 8th most Ph.D. citizens per capita. In Australia, 2% of the population holds a doctorate degree. Males and females are almost identical regarding Ph.Ds., with males just slightly earning a Ph.D. more frequently. Males account for 1.1% of Ph.Ds. in the country, while females account for 1.0% of the Ph.Ds. awarded in Australia.

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What country has the highest percentage of PhDs?

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• What are the characteristics and outcomes of doctoral graduates? - OECD
• These countries have the most doctoral graduates - World Economic Forum
• List of countries by number of doctorates awarded - Wiki

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• Doctoral degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by ethnicity

Number of doctoral degrees earned in the United States in 2020/21, by ethnicity

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2020 to 2021

Doctoral degrees include Ph.D., E.D., and comparable degrees at the doctoral level, as well as such degrees as M.D., D.D.S., and law degrees that were formerly classified as first-professional degrees.

Other statistics on the topic Higher education graduation in the U.S.

• Doctoral degrees earned in the United States 1950-2032, by gender
• U.S. unemployment rate of recent graduates 2016-2023
• Bachelor's degrees earned in the United States by gender 1950-2032
• U.S. - average salary for master's graduates 2023, by discipline

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Statistics on " Higher education graduation in the U.S. "

• Degrees earned in higher education U.S. 1950-2032
• Number of Associate's degree recipients U.S. 1970-2032
• Number of Bachelor's degree recipients U.S. 1869/70-2031/32
• Number of Master's degree recipients U.S. 1880-2032
• Number of doctoral and first professional degree recipients U.S. 1870-2032
• Number of degrees awarded by community colleges U.S. 2021, by type
• Associate's degrees earned in the United States 1970-2032, by gender
• Associate's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by ethnicity
• Bachelor's degrees earned in the United States by ethnic group 2020/21
• Bachelor's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by field of research
• Number of Bachelor's degrees awarded U.S. 2020-2021, by gender and subject
• Share of U.S. population who had completed a bachelor's degree 2021, by state
• Master's degrees earned in the United States 1950-2032, by gender
• Master's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by ethnicity
• Master's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by field of research
• Share of U.S. population who had completed an advanced degree 2021, by state
• Doctoral degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by field of research
• Median years to complete a doctorate U.S. 1995-2021
• Primary sources of financial support for U.S. doctorate recipients 2021
• Share of U.S. graduates with debt 2003-2019
• Average debt of university graduates in the U.S. 2008-2022
• Average student debt for a 4-year bachelor's degree, by institution type U.S. 2020/21
• Highest paying associate's degrees in the U.S. 2021/22, by mid-career pay
• U.S. - average salary for Bachelor's degree holders 2023, by discipline
• Highest paying bachelor's degrees in the U.S. 2021/22, by mid-career pay

Other statistics that may interest you Higher education graduation in the U.S.

• Basic Statistic Degrees earned in higher education U.S. 1950-2032
• Basic Statistic Number of Associate's degree recipients U.S. 1970-2032
• Basic Statistic Number of Bachelor's degree recipients U.S. 1869/70-2031/32
• Basic Statistic Number of Master's degree recipients U.S. 1880-2032
• Basic Statistic Number of doctoral and first professional degree recipients U.S. 1870-2032

Associate's degree

• Premium Statistic Number of degrees awarded by community colleges U.S. 2021, by type
• Basic Statistic Associate's degrees earned in the United States 1970-2032, by gender
• Basic Statistic Associate's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by ethnicity

Bachelor's degree

• Basic Statistic Bachelor's degrees earned in the United States by gender 1950-2032
• Basic Statistic Bachelor's degrees earned in the United States by ethnic group 2020/21
• Basic Statistic Bachelor's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by field of research
• Premium Statistic Number of Bachelor's degrees awarded U.S. 2020-2021, by gender and subject
• Premium Statistic Share of U.S. population who had completed a bachelor's degree 2021, by state

Master's degree

• Basic Statistic Master's degrees earned in the United States 1950-2032, by gender
• Basic Statistic Master's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by ethnicity
• Basic Statistic Master's degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by field of research
• Premium Statistic Share of U.S. population who had completed an advanced degree 2021, by state

Doctorate degree

• Basic Statistic Doctoral degrees earned in the United States 1950-2032, by gender
• Basic Statistic Doctoral degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by ethnicity
• Basic Statistic Doctoral degrees earned in the United States 2020/21, by field of research
• Premium Statistic Median years to complete a doctorate U.S. 1995-2021
• Premium Statistic Primary sources of financial support for U.S. doctorate recipients 2021

Debt and unemployment

• Basic Statistic Share of U.S. graduates with debt 2003-2019
• Basic Statistic Average debt of university graduates in the U.S. 2008-2022
• Basic Statistic Average student debt for a 4-year bachelor's degree, by institution type U.S. 2020/21
• Basic Statistic U.S. unemployment rate of recent graduates 2016-2023
• Basic Statistic Highest paying associate's degrees in the U.S. 2021/22, by mid-career pay
• Basic Statistic U.S. - average salary for Bachelor's degree holders 2023, by discipline
• Basic Statistic Highest paying bachelor's degrees in the U.S. 2021/22, by mid-career pay
• Basic Statistic U.S. - average salary for master's graduates 2023, by discipline

Further related statistics

• Basic Statistic First-professional degrees earned in the United States by ethnicity 2017
• Basic Statistic Number of degrees in visual and performing arts in the U.S. 1999-2013
• Basic Statistic Doctoral degrees in visual and performing arts in the U.S. 1999-2013
• Premium Statistic Number of STEM degrees conferred by U.S. institutions 2008-2021, by race/ethnicity
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RIT graduate pursues Ph.D. across time zones

Nastaran Nagshineh, center, defended her Ph.D. thesis at RIT in April. Faculty from RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses served on her thesis committee and include, from left to right, Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard, Steven Weinstein, Nathaniel Barlow, and David Kofke (a professor at the University at Buffalo). Mohamed Samaha participated remotely and appears on the video screen behind the group and alongside Nagshineh’s picture.

Nastaran Nagshineh is one of the first Ph.D. candidates to bridge RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses. Her accomplishment creates a path for future students at the university’s international campuses.

Nagshineh completed her Ph.D. in mathematical modeling while working full time as a mathematics lecturer at RIT Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, teaching as many as five classes a semester. She described her Ph.D. journey as “an exercise in perseverance” due to competing demands and long days. Rochester is eight hours behind Dubai, and the time difference meant many late-night classes and meetings.

“I saw this collaboration as an opportunity, rather than as a challenge, because my primary adviser, Dr. Steven Weinstein (RIT professor of chemical engineering), and my co-adviser, Dr. Mohamed Samaha (RIT Dubai associate professor of mechanical engineering), both have the same area of research interest,” she said. “They both worked toward my success.”

Nagshineh is one of 67 RIT Ph.D. students who defended their thesis this academic year and who will earn their doctorate. RIT awarded 63 Ph.D. degrees in 2023.

In 2020-2021, RIT’s Graduate School met and surpassed the university’s goal of conferring 50 Ph.D. degrees during an academic year. That number will continue to grow as students cycle through the seven new Ph.D. programs that RIT has added since 2017, said Diane Slusarski , dean of RIT’s Graduate School.

Meeting these goals puts RIT on a path toward achieving an “R1,” or research-intensive designation, from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Learning. RIT is currently ranked as an R2 institution . Many factors go into changing a university’s status, including research investment and maintaining a three-year average of 70 Ph.D. degrees awarded per year, according to Slusarski.

“We have met the goals of the strategic plan, and now we look forward to contributing to the research innovation in the future,” Slusarski said. “We want to help the new programs thrive and win national research awards.”

RIT’s emphasis on high-level research is seen in Nagshineh’s Ph.D. work. She applies mathematical modeling to the field of fluid dynamics. Her research has been published in top-tier journals and has gained notice, said Weinstein, her thesis adviser.

Weinstein describes Nagshineh’s accomplishments as “a testament to a fantastic work ethic and commitment” and is inspirational to younger students at Rochester and Dubai.

“The collaboration between RIT Dubai/Rochester has continued,” he said. “Another paper was submitted a few weeks ago with Mohamed Samaha and Nate Barlow (RIT associate professor in the School of Mathematics and Statistics) as co-authors, as well as Cade Reinberger, a younger Ph.D. student in my research group.”

Mathematical modeling is one of RIT’s newer Ph.D. degree programs, and Nagshineh is among its earliest graduates. The program has doubled in size since it began accepting students in 2017, Slusarski said. This past fall, the mathematical modeling program had 35 students, with two graduating this year.

Altogether, RIT has 13 Ph.D. degree programs currently enrolling 438 students, with computing and information sciences accounting for the largest with 117 students. RIT’s other Ph.D. programs include astrophysical sciences and technology , biomedical and chemical engineering , business administration , color science , electrical and computer engineering, imaging science , mechanical and industrial engineering , microsystems engineering , and sustainability .

New programs in cognitive science and physics will launch in the fall.

The growth in RIT graduate education—with more than 3,000 master’s and doctoral students—reflects a demographic change in the student population, Slusarski said. “We have a higher percentage of women in the graduate programs than we have for RIT undergraduate programs.”

RIT’s graduate programs enroll 42 percent women, according to Christie Leone , assistant dean for the Graduate School.

Nagshineh, who also holds an MS in electrical engineering from RIT Dubai, welcomes her role as a mentor to other women students on both campuses.

“As a young woman in an Arabic country, the power of women is often underestimated and undervalued, and I hope to serve as a role model to female students, especially those that question their path,” Nagshineh said.

She plans to continue in her career as a professor and a researcher. “I would like to pursue a research program where I can advise my own students and teach them more deeply.”

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Postbaccalaureate Licensure in Special Education, 5-12

Stonehill's Postbaccalaureate Licensure in Special Education, 5-12 prepares current educators who already hold a master's degree to create and lead inclusive learning environments. It leads to Massachusetts initial licensure in special education, 5-12.

Upcoming Application Deadlines

• Fall Semester: August 1, 2024
• Spring Semester: January 1, 2025
• Summer Semester: May 1, 2025
• Stonehill in Boston: May 15, 2024
• Stonehill on Cape Cod: March 1, 2024

Earn Your Initial Licensure in Special Education, 5-12

The Postbaccalaureate Licensure in Special Education, 5-12 program prepares teachers to be leaders and critical thinkers. Schools today are complex and diverse communities — reflecting a landscape rich with individual differences. Teachers in our program are prepared using a unique combination of theoretical and practical experiences. This approach ensures their ability to create and lead equitable spaces where difference is valued while at the same time preparing them for the realities and challenges of the classroom and the profession.

In this program, students will: 

• develop pedagogical skills to teach diverse adolescent learners 
• design and implement equitable curricula across content areas in middle and high school settings
• explore universal design, intersectionality and inclusivity
• learn to foster care, connection and community with adolescent learners, their families and colleagues

This program includes a mix of in-person and online courses.

Why Graduate Teacher Education at Stonehill

• Focus on educational equity and diversity helps better prepare educators for the modern classroom
• A core of foundational courses ensures our graduates gain the skills to teach all students
• Faculty with well-established expertise in field
• Experiential learning via research, partnership and community opportunities
• Specialized student support framework guides students through program requirements and career preparation

Graduate & Professional Studies Virtual Information Session

Join us for a Graduate & Professional Studies Virtual Information Session on Tuesday, June 11.

Teacherpalooza: A Teacher Appreciation Event

Save the date for Teacherpalooza, a teacher appreciation event hosted by Stonehill Graduate Teacher Education to thank educators for their hard work. Date: Wednesday, June 26 Time: 2-5 p.m.

Join us for a Graduate & Professional Studies Virtual Information Session on Tuesday, July 9.

Curriculum Keeps Inclusivity at the Center

Stonehill's graduate teacher education programs include unique and effective courses, programs and opportunities that foster innovation, transformation and leadership. Our curriculum keeps inclusivity central to how we prepare educators for schools, classrooms and community settings. The 21-to-27 credit Postbaccalaureate Licensure in Special Education, 5-12 features a selection of courses designed to prepare educators for Massachusetts initial licensure in special education, 5-12.

This course covers current policy and practice related to English Learners (ELs) in schools with a special focus on Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Settings. Topics will include diversity issues, content/academic vocabulary development and literacy skills (including listening, speaking, reading and writing) to provide teachers with the knowledge and strategies to support ELs in classrooms. 

*May be waived with documented, state-approved sheltered English immersion (SEI) endorsement.

This course examines and unpacks contemporary issues in the field of education and provides prospective teachers with a beginning foundation for understanding the teaching profession and the U.S. education system, including policy and governance. The historical, legal, ethical, and pedagogical foundations for social justice education and democratic education will be explored, as well as the education reform context and emerging policies. The course will include an examination of professional ethics and standards. 

Required field experience.

This graduate course focuses on the Individual Education Program (IEP) and the role of the special educator in the process, from pre-referral to eligibility determination and placement, as well as implementation. Federal and state laws related to special education will be explored.

Collaboration, communication, building trust, and relationships with families and school/community colleagues will be an emphasis of the course.

This course explores supportive, preventative, and proactive approaches to addressing the social and academic behaviors of students with disabilities and other diverse populations. Strategies for developing a positive classroom climate to support social and emotional development, including trauma and anxiety, will be central to the learning of the course. A variety of approaches, including the connection between communication & behavior, identifying contributing factors to challenging behavior, FBA, and behavior support plans will be explored.

This course explores language and literacy instruction for middle/high school students with disabilities. The course will emphasize how to design literacy lessons for diverse adolescent learners, including how to assess students’ literacy progress. Course participants will learn about the specific aspects of reading and explore how to support students’ needs in all areas. The course will provide participants with assessment strategies in literacy. Participants will also learn specific strategies to support students writing skills throughout all content areas.

This course examines the pedagogy of math instruction for middle and high school aged diverse students. The course will explore instructional strategies and routines to support all learners to develop mathematical thinking. Participants will develop instructional routines and apply standards in the design of curricula to improve how math can be humanized in classrooms. The course explores issues related to technology, math pedagogy, and math equity.

This three-credit course addresses issues in the assessment of children and youth with disabilities, and reviews norm-referenced and criterion-referenced assessments, developmental scales, and formal and informal observation techniques. Students will acquire an understanding of the issues related to selecting and administering a variety of assessment tools, and to interpreting, communicating and utilizing data from assessments to support the education of students with disabilities.

This course explores how curriculum built on the goal of student understanding, integrated with instructional approaches that emphasize reaching every learner, can provide teachers with more specific teaching targets and more flexible ways to reach them. Students will examine the teaching, instruction, and curricula required to meet the needs of diverse learners, who by virtue of their experiential, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, challenge traditional curriculum and instructional programs.  

Course participants will determine how to deconstruct curricular barriers and create and apply curricular solutions, including assistive technology and AAC, to maximize access and academic success.

Field experience requirement.

This course is taken concurrently with a graduate practicum or internship. This capstone seminar will focus on social justice education, professional culture, family & community engagement, collaboration, and curriculum and planning for educational contexts. Students will reflect on experiences in the practica/internship site and current issues and best practice in education, including trauma and social emotional learning.

Off-Campus Partnerships

Stonehill in boston, stonehill on cape cod, studying inclusive education at stonehill.

Stonehill College's graduate teacher education programs prepare educators to lead inclusive learning environments. The College offers master's degree, teacher licensure, community education, and graduate certificate program options, and our focus on educational equity and diversity helps prepare educators for the modern classroom. Our program tenets include anti-oppressive education, social justice education and democratic education, and we work to reflect these principles in all aspects of our work.

Learn more about our graduate teacher education programs.

Schools today must strive to be inclusive environments, and educators in our program are prepared to be leaders in creating equitable spaces where difference is valued.

Graduate Teacher Education at Stonehill

Stonehill College's graduate teacher education programs aim to prepare knowledgeable, reflective, caring and flexible educators who embrace learning, scholarship, community and advocacy in their work. Social justice and democratic education are at the center of our work and underpins all programs, courses and experiences. We believe education can disrupt systems and processes that perpetuate injustice and inequity and embrace diversity and individuality as strengths.

We advance our mission by modeling the creation of democratic spaces in the graduate classroom that reflect equitable, accessible and inclusive learning environments where students' voices and perspectives help to shape the construction and the provision of their learning.

Three tenets guide our program philosophy:

• Social justice education
• Democratic education
• Anti-oppressive education

Graduate Teacher Education Program Outcomes

Our graduates

• Foster care, connection and community with students, colleagues and families
• Promote inclusivity, diversity and equity in educational spaces
• Work to disrupt systems that perpetuate oppression and inequity
• Embrace teaching practices that foster social justice and democracy
• Lead by making education accessible for all learners
• Elevate student voices and perspectives in education
• Act purposefully to continue to learn and contribute to the profession

Rigorous Academics and the Support to Succeed

Stonehill’s graduate teacher education programs recognize the challenges graduate students face in prioritizing work, family, personal and graduate school commitments. Our Graduate Student Support, Access and Success (SSAS) Framework is designed to support students’ success from program start to finish.

Specifically, this approach provides:

• A proactive vs. reactive framework for supporting graduate students’ variable needs within their program
• Clear benchmarks for assessment of candidate readiness

From the admission process to graduation, students have a clear understanding of both expectations and the support available to help them achieve their goals.

Contact Information

Graduate & professional studies admission.

Graduate & Professional Studies Admission assists students as they explore graduate and professional opportunities offered at Stonehill College. 

Meet the Director of Graduate Teacher Education

Rebekah C. Louis

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83-year-old woman becomes Howard University’s oldest graduate

WASHINGTON (WJLA) - An 83-year-old graduate is now Howard University’s oldest student to earn a degree.

Marie Fowler, Howard University’s most senior student, said earning her doctorate degree in divinity was a calling from God.

“It was never my thought that I would go beyond maybe one semester because, after all, I started school when I had been out of school since 1959. I didn’t even know if I could even retain information,” she said.

After initially doubting her ability and finances at this stage of her life, Fowler said it was her parents’ experiences and her father’s words still ringing in her ear that pushed her forward.

“My mom and dad was born in an era when it was illegal for them to learn to read and write. We taught my dad how to read and write and how to sign his name,” she said.

Throughout her three years at Howard’s Divinity School, Fowler made her mark.

“She was the life of the party,” said Alice Ogden Bellis, professor of Hebrew Bible. “She knew what she needed, what she wanted, and she came here and she did that.”

Fowler said it is never “too late.”

“I want everyone to realize that,” she said.

Fowler said her father used to say, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”

Copyright 2024 WJLA via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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