If you’ve ever wondered, “What is a PhD?” if you have never done one, or even wondered if you should, this guide will explain it in easy-to-follow steps.

Ph.D. is a Doctor of Philosophy, one of the most prestigious degrees you can receive in the academic environment, but what does it include? This guide is for you.

What Is a PhD?

A PhD is a postgraduate academic degree that may involve original research work and extended study in a particular area of specialization.

It is the ultimate level of education one can achieve in most of the courses offered in school. While it is a degree, it is a process of exploration in the unknown and providing new data to society.

In simpler terms, a PhD is all about discovery.

The concept of a PhD is to gain mastery over the subject and contribute a new idea or knowledge to the world in terms of a theory, a technique or a research work that can alter the perception of reality.

What Does a PhD Involve?

PhD is not an undergraduate or a master’s program.

When it comes to what is a PhD, it is not about a particular course structure, with tests and quizzes at the end of every unit. It is, in fact, an empirical endeavour that enables the individual to conduct a planned and executed study.

Therefore, your goal is to formulate and answer a question that has not been posed before.

PhD students usually take 3 to 4 years (sometimes more) to work on their research. This includes:

• Developing a Research Topic: You select a subject you are passionate about and in which knowledge is scarce.
• Conducting Research: This can be done through laboratory experiments, interviews, surveys, or research. It is all about collecting information to help answer a particular research question that you wish to explore.
• Writing a Thesis: The last element of the PhD is writing a thesis or dissertation in which the candidate describes the results of their work, concepts, and contributions to the field.
• Defending Your Research: Finally, after writing the thesis, you will defend it in front of a panel of people in the same field. This is known as viva or oral defence.

PhD vs. Other Doctorates

All doctorates are not equal. The term ‘PhD’ is used commonly, even though many types of doctorates depend on the discipline.

For instance, if you are majoring in medicine, you will likely achieve a Doctor of Medicine, while a law foremost will aim to gain a Juris Doctor.

So, what is a PhD? The main difference between a PhD and these other doctorates is the emphasis on research.

PhD programs are research-based, meaning you are to add to the existing knowledge pool. At the same time, other doctorate degrees, such as medical or legal, are more professional or medical.

Why pursue a PhD?

But why should you even think about going back and getting your PhD? Here are some of the reasons people choose to pursue one:

• Passion for Knowledge: If you are passionate about a specific topic and wish to gain more profound knowledge of that particular area, then a PhD could be something for you.
• Academic Career: A PhD is usually necessary to teach at the university level or become an expert in your specific area of study, a PhD is usually necessary.
• Research and Innovation: For the scholar interested in contributing to the progress of science, technology, humanities, or any other field of study, a PhD provides the venue for this to be achieved.
• Personal Challenge: It is not a simple journey, but to finish a PhD is a significant achievement on a personal level.

Explore what kind of jobs you can get after getting a PhD degree.

What Are the Requirements for a PhD?

To start a PhD, the person should have a good academic background.

Most learners enroll for a PhD after obtaining their master’s. However, there are instances when one can directly join a PhD program after finishing the bachelor’s program.

Admission requirements vary from one institution to another but usually include:

• Strong Academic Records: I have received a good grade point average and am qualifying academically from previous education institutions.
• Research Proposal: A comprehensive proposal that outlines the area of study, the questions the study seeks to address and how the study will be carried out.
• Recommendation Letters: Recommendation letters from professors or employers who could recommend one’s academic and research aptitude.
• Language Proficiency: In some countries, you may be required to show that you are fluently literate in English, or another language, if the course is taught in a language other than English.

What Are the PhD Stages?

Once admitted, a PhD is typically divided into stages:

• Year 1: In the first year, you refine your research proposal, do a literature review, and start gathering data.
• Year 2: By the second year, you focus on conducting research, analyzing data, and preparing to share your findings.
• Year 3 (and beyond): In the final stages, you complete your thesis, defend your work before a panel of experts, and make any necessary revisions.

Alternatives to a PhD

There are alternatives if a PhD feels like too much of a commitment.

Professional doctorates and master’s programs are available in education, psychology, and business. These can offer similar benefits in terms of career advancement without the extensive research component.

Conclusion

So, what is a PhD? A PhD is more than a credential—It involves passion, curiosity, the desire to contribute, and a love of learning. If you are passionate about a subject area and want to create change, a PhD might be for you.

If you need assistance applying for your desired course, Enrollmate can help you, especially if you’re ready to advance to the next level in your academic education.

Discover the opportunities today and begin the process of achieving your PhD.