should i get my phd after my masters

How Long Is A PhD Program? How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD Or Doctorate?

A common question that many graduate students have is whether they can pursue a PhD after completing their master’s degree.

The answer is yes, it is possible to continue your academic career by obtaining a doctoral degree in your field of study.

There are several factors that need to be considered before embarking on this path.

This article will provide an overview of the key factors students should consider when deciding whether to pursue a PhD after completing their master’s degree.

How Long Is A PhD Program?

Why do doctoral students try to get a phd.

Doctoral students pursue a PhD for various reasons, many of which are deeply personal and professional.

Passion For Knowledge: For some, the journey is driven by a passion for knowledge and a desire to contribute new insights to their field of study. The allure of pushing the boundaries of human understanding is a significant motivator.

A PhD allows these individuals to engage in research that can potentially solve pressing issues or open new avenues for exploration.

Career: Another reason is the professional advancement a PhD offers. In academia, a doctorate is often a prerequisite for securing a faculty position or achieving tenure. Beyond academia, industries such as technology, pharmaceuticals, and education value PhD holders for their:

advanced problem-solving abilities, and
capacity for independent research.

Personal fulfillment: For many, earning a PhD represents the culmination of years of dedication and intellectual effort. It’s a significant personal achievement that can foster a sense of accomplishment and mastery over a chosen subject.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD or Doctorate? Time to complete everything

On average, in the US it takes about six years, with three years dedicated to coursework and another three years for the dissertation project. It can take up to 13 years to complete a PhD program.

Factors that can influence the duration include:

prerequisites of the program,
program format,
the student’s motivation,
prior knowledge,
Personal circumstances, such as being an international student, can influence the time it takes to complete the doctoral program.
Funding and scholarship stipend can significantly affect the years of study and the time it takes to earn a doctorate degree.
field of study,
dissertation topic,
Support of the graduate advisor can be a crucial factor in minimizing the time it takes to complete a doctorate degree.

The range can be as short as three years or as long as seven to eight years , depending on the individual and the circumstances.

There are also doctoral programs that takes 18 months only , but these are often not Ph.Ds, but professional doctorates like DBA, EDD, etc.

Why A Doctoral Degree Takes So Long To Complete?

There are reasons why PhD programs are not a walk in the park. They take a long time to complete, as PhD programs usually come with these:

Complex Research Requirements

PhD programs often require original research that can take years to complete. Depending on your field of study, the dissertation may require extensive:

clinical trials, or
field studies.

A PhD student in biology might spend several months collecting data, only to realize they need to start over because of unexpected results. This trial and error process adds time to completing your PhD.

Coursework and Teaching Responsibilities

Many PhD programs require students to take advanced coursework in their first few years. If you’re also working as a teaching assistant or research assistant , balancing these responsibilities can stretch out your timeline.

PhD candidates often find that these commitments take valuable time away from their research.

In professional doctorate programs, the focus might shift more towards practical experience, but the workload still contributes to how long it takes to get your doctorate.

Dissertation Scope

The scope of the dissertation can dramatically impact how long it takes to earn a doctoral degree. If your topic is too broad or ambitious, you may spend years trying to narrow it down.

Many PhD students start with a wide focus, only to realize that they need to refine their research question to make it manageable. This can add years of study and revision to the process.

Funding Limitations

Financial support often dictates the pace of your doctoral studies. Many PhD programs in the U.S. provide funding, but it typically comes with conditions like teaching or research duties.

Some students run out of funding before they finish their dissertation, forcing them to take outside work, or spend more time applying for research grants. These additional work further slows down the process.

What Factors Influence Doctoral Program Graduation Time?

When considering how long it takes to complete a PhD, several factors can shape the timeline:

Prerequisites

PhD programs typically require a master’s degree as a prerequisite.

Students who already have a master’s degree may be able to skip some coursework, allowing them to complete their doctoral program faster.

For those starting with a bachelor’s degree, the program may take longer due to the additional coursework they’ll need to complete.

Program Format

The program format also plays a big role. Traditional full-time PhD programs in the U.S. usually take four to seven years to complete. However, online doctoral programs or part-time PhD programs often take much longer to complete.

While they offer flexibility, especially for working professionals, the part-time format may stretch the program out to eight years or more.

Online doctorate programs offer a different pace and support, but depending on the structure, it can add or shave off months or years from the time it takes to get your doctorate.

Field Of Study

The field of study is another huge factor in the time it takes to complete a PhD. Doctoral programs in STEM fields like engineering, physics, or biology typically require intensive lab work or experiments, which can take several months or even years.

On the other hand, humanities and social sciences PhD programs often require extensive reading and writing.

Research for a dissertation in these fields might be less dependent on external factors, so some students might complete their PhD faster, depending on the scope of their project.

A dissertation topic that’s narrow and manageable might save a student time, whereas complex topics that require years of research, like field studies or clinical trials, take much longer to complete.

Personal Factors

Personal circumstances, such as being an international student, can also add time to the doctoral program. Many international students may face issues that can slow down their graduation time , such as:

navigating visa regulations,
adjusting to a new academic system, or
facing language barriers.

Funding & Scholarships

Funding and scholarships play a crucial role, too. Many PhD programs are funded, but the level of financial support can vary.

Some students rely on teaching assistantships or research grants, which often come with time commitments that may slow their progress.

If funding is limited or ends early, students may be forced to work outside their academic program, which can extend the time it takes to complete a PhD.

A supportive graduate advisor is a critical factor that isn’t often talked about. A good advisor can

help you navigate challenges,
keep your dissertation on track, and
guide you to resources that speed up your research.

Without strong support, PhD candidates often take longer to complete their degree. An unresponsive or overburdened advisor can add months or even years to the process.

How To Graduate With A Doctorate Degree Faster

Graduating with a doctorate degree faster is possible if you take strategic steps. Here’s a couple ways to speed up the process:

Choose a Focused Dissertation Topic

The broader your dissertation, the more time it will take to complete. If you want to finish your PhD faster, choose a research question that’s both focused and manageable.

Many PhD students get stuck on projects that spiral into something too large to tackle. By picking a more specific topic, you can cut down the time it takes to get your doctorate.

Rather than studying climate change in general, focus on how a specific region is affected by it.

Build Strong Relationships with Your Advisor

The time it takes to complete a PhD often depends on how supportive your graduate advisor is. PhD candidates who have frequent, productive meetings with their advisors typically take less time to finish their degree.

The quicker you get feedback from your supervisor, the faster you can make revisions and move on to the next stage of your research.

If your advisor is responsive and well-organized, you’ll avoid delays that can add months, or even years, to your doctoral program.

Leverage Prior Knowledge

Many PhD programs are designed to build upon a master’s degree. If you already have a master’s degree in your field, you can often skip some foundational courses, which will allow you to move through the program faster.

Some professional doctorate programs even allow you to apply real-world experience toward your degree, cutting down on the time it takes to earn a doctoral degree.

Consider Online or Accelerated Programs

Some online PhD programs or professional doctorate programs offer accelerated timelines. These programs typically take less time than traditional, in-person ones.

There are also direct PhD entry programs, allowing you to jump straight into a PhD from a bachelor’s degree . These programs are however, a lot more challenging, due to the huge jump in rigor and expectations.

Many online doctoral programs also offer flexibility in coursework, which allows you to move at your own pace. If you’re looking to graduate faster, an online doctorate may be an option worth exploring.

Maintain Consistent Funding

The more stable your funding, the quicker you can complete your doctorate degree. Many PhD programs in the US require students to balance teaching or research duties to earn their stipend.

If you can secure grants or external scholarships, you can focus entirely on your research, shaving off years of study. You can also work part-time, although this may come at a cost of time.

Leverage Technology

With technology, there are now many ways to speed up and simplify the research process. There are many AI tools out there that can help with research work such as:

Literature review,
Generating graphics or images.
Creating presentation slides, or
Generating drafts for the dissertation itself.

The key is to use these tools responsibly, in a way that does not cause you to become academically dishonest.

Should I Get My PhD After My Masters? What About Industry?

Deciding whether to pursue a PhD immediately after a master’s degree or enter the workforce first depends on personal goals, interests, and circumstances.

A PhD typically requires around five years of self-directed effort, similar to starting a business. If passionate about research, it might be best to begin right away.

Working in industry before pursuing a PhD can lead to habits that may not benefit academia and can take longer to adjust back to a scholarly environment.

Long-term relationships are essential in academia, and aggressive industry tactics might not be well-received.

Starting a PhD earlier allows for more time to produce research and establish a successful career, particularly for those considering a long-term academic path.

PhD pursuit offers flexibility in research topics and projects, enabling exploration across various subjects and building connections with professionals from different fields. This leads to unique opportunities and experiences that may not be available when working for a single company.

Considering factors like personal goals and readiness for the workload and demands of a PhD program is crucial.

Weigh the potential benefits of advancing education against the time, cost, and personal demands of a doctoral program. If a PhD aligns with one’s career aspirations and personal goals, it may be a worthwhile pursuit.

However, if the investment required outweighs the potential benefits, it might not be the best choice.

It’s always possible to try a PhD program for a year or two and then make a more informed decision based on individual experiences.

Do You Need A Master’s For A PhD? A Shorter Career Path That Doesn’t Take So Long.

In certain fields, such as clinical psychology, it is possible to pursue a PhD without obtaining a master’s degree first.

To do so, one must demonstrate a strong academic and research background, as well as a commitment to the field.

Here are the most important attributes if you are thinking about going straight into a PhD without a master’s:

Strong academic and research background: Ensure that you have excelled in your coursework and maintained a high GPA.
Undergraduate research experience: Engage in research projects during your undergraduate studies, preferably with a thesis component.
Clinical exposure (if applicable): Gain relevant experience in the field to showcase your practical knowledge and commitment.
Leadership experience: Participate in activities that demonstrate your ability to lead and work effectively within a team, as this can be advantageous in the years of study required to earn a doctorate degree.
Interpersonal skills: Develop strong communication and collaboration skills, which are essential for success in a PhD program.
Clear determination: Express your dedication to pursuing a PhD directly from your undergraduate studies, highlighting your commitment to the field and how quickly you aim to earn a doctorate.
Assess your certainty: Be sure that you are confident in your goals and prepared to invest the necessary effort to be competitive without a master’s degree.

By satisfying these requirements, you can better assess your eligibility to apply for a PhD without a master’s degree and potentially save time and money in the process.

Earn a Doctorate without a Masters – How Does It Work?

Obtaining a PhD without a master’s degree is not a common path, but it is possible under certain circumstances.

Typically, a PhD candidate has an undergraduate degree with high grades, a master’s degree, and relevant research skills.

However, there are exceptions where individuals have successfully transitioned from their undergraduate studies directly to a PhD program.

One such scenario involves having a strong rapport with a potential PhD supervisor, perhaps from your undergraduate program, which can significantly reduce the time it takes to earn a doctorate.

This relationship can help compensate for the lack of a master’s degree, but it’s not a guarantee.

Another example is being an exceptional student with a first-class undergraduate degree and a dissertation closely aligned with the advertised PhD project.

Demonstrating an outstanding attitude and performance during your undergraduate project may give you an edge over other applicants.

In applied PhDs, practical experience can also be beneficial, particularly if it includes valuable contacts in the field.

If your PhD is related to professional sports and you have numerous connections within the industry, it may facilitate recruitment and collaboration, enhancing your chances of acceptance.

However, as with the other examples, this is not a sure-fire way to secure a position. While securing a PhD without a master’s degree is challenging, it is not impossible.

The best approach is to pursue a master’s degree, as it will better prepare you for a PhD program.

Nonetheless, if you are determined to bypass the master’s route, perseverance and strategic networking can potentially lead to success.

Wrapping Up – How Long Does It Take To Complete A PhD?

Pursuing a PhD after a master’s degree is a common path for those looking to advance in academia or research-intensive careers.

While obtaining a PhD requires a significant commitment of time and resources, it can lead to prestigious positions or high-paying jobs. It is crucial to consider personal goals, interests, and the job prospects in the field before enrolling in a doctoral program.

For those considering a PhD without a master’s degree, it is essential to demonstrate a strong academic and research background and commit to the field.

The decision between an MPhil and a PhD depends on the desired scope, depth, and career impact of the research. Ultimately, individuals should carefully weigh the potential benefits against the time it takes, cost, and personal demands of a doctoral program before making a decision.

How Long Does It Take To Complete A PhD?

A PhD typically takes 6 to 13 years, depending on program structure, research, personal circumstances, and funding.

What Factors Influence PhD Graduation Time?

PhD graduation time is influenced by prerequisites, program format, funding, field of study, dissertation scope, advisor support, and personal circumstances.

How To Graduate With A PhD Faster?

To graduate faster, choose a focused dissertation, build strong advisor relationships, leverage prior knowledge, secure funding, and use technology.

Do You Need A Master’s To Start PhD?

No, a master’s isn’t always required, but strong academic background, research experience, and commitment can allow direct PhD entry.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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Is it Worth Doing a PhD After a Master’s?

Is it worth doing a PhD? It's a long, financially modest commitment requiring self-motivation, but it can offer career advantages and personal growth. Not all careers require a PhD, so explore alternatives first. Choose your topic and supervisor wisely, and don't do one for the sake of it.

last updated: July 23, 2024

Listen to one of our scientific editorial team members read this article. Click here to access more audio articles or subscribe.

Is it worth doing a PhD? This is a question that probably plagues every research student at some point in their career.

The decision to pursue a PhD after getting your Master’s degree is a difficult one. A PhD is a huge undertaking emotionally, mentally, and financially.

Considerations That Are True for Everyone Wanting to Do a PhD

It takes 3–4 years to complete, during which you are on a pretty basic stipend (OK, you’re poor).

You also need the ability to continually motivate yourself through the times when your experiments are not working (most of the time).

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Oh, and you might not see as much of your friends and family as you would like, especially when you’re writing up your thesis.

People pursue PhDs for a variety of reasons: some know from the start that they want to run labs at a university, some feel pressured to go for the top degree in their field, some see it as a natural progression after receiving their Master’s, and some continue in academia because they just don’t know what to do next.

For all, it is a highly personal decision, but one that shouldn’t be taken lightly.

During my undergraduate degree, I had the opportunity to work in a research laboratory as part of a summer vacation scholarship.

The PhD student supervising me on a day-to-day basis gave me a really useful piece of advice: don’t do a Master’s or a PhD just for the sake of doing one . She encouraged me to thoroughly explore my options and not to merely drift into a postgraduate course just because I didn’t know what else to do.

So, is it worth you doing a PhD? The following questions might help you to decide.

1. Is it Worth Doing a PhD to Pursue Your Chosen Career Path?

Not every job requires a PhD for you to be successful. In fact, many do not. If you are not planning to stay in academia long-term, then a PhD may be of no additional benefit to you. Picture the type of job you would like to have once you are finished with your education; our handy article lists some options .

Having a PhD might give you an edge over other candidates and help you secure a position, even if a PhD is not required for a particular job. However, it can also work against you, potentially making you overqualified and less likely to get the job.

Have a career discussion with as many people as possible to get different opinions and viewpoints. Try to talk to people who have chosen a variety of career paths. Also, talk to people who have done or are doing a PhD; their experience and insight can be invaluable.

2. Have You Explored Other Options?

For example, like gaining experience in industry or working in a laboratory as a research assistant or technician ?

It’s hard to make a clear-headed decision when you are caught up in the middle of things. Sometimes it is better to take a step back and pursue an option without making a multi-year commitment.

Working as a research assistant in an academic laboratory for a year or so is a great way to figure out if you enjoy working in the academic environment and, more specifically, within a particular laboratory. This kind of experience should confirm if doing a PhD is right for you.

3. Have you Found a Supervisor and a Topic?

Remember that you’ll be committing to both the topic and the supervisor for 3-4 years!

A good PhD supervisor is worth their weight in gold, and finding a good mentor should be a priority. Furthermore, you need to be passionate about your research topic to motivate you during the tremendously tough times. Make sure you work on something you care about.

4. Do You Have Support from Family and Friends?

Talk to your support network, i.e. your friends and family. They are the ones you will rely on heavily while doing the PhD for emotional support (parents may also be a source of financial support).

If you are looking for further advice, make sure you check out our article with pointers for PhD students . Are you sure that a PhD is the right move for you? Search for PhDs in Biological and Medical Sciences to find the right PhD to suit you.

5. Can You Afford to Do a PhD?

Doing a PhD can be costly. There may be fees, and you’ll need to be able to live, so factor in rent, food, and bills too. Depending on where you live and plan on studying, you may be able to get a grant or stipend to help cover the costs.

If you are considering working on the side, note that this might not be feasible. Often PhD work is more than a full-time job, leaving you little room to earn on the side. That said, there might be options for paid work as part of your PhD—for example, as a teaching assistant (remember those helpful people during your lab practical? They were probably PhD students!).

In addition, you need to factor in what you’ll be missing out on compared with entering the workforce – you’ll most likely not be contributing to a pension or retirement fund or other benefits of a full-time job (e.g., health care).

You also need to consider that if you plan on leaving academia after a PhD, you may still be on an ‘entry-level’ salary and, therefore, several years behind where you could have been if you had not done a PhD.

Q. What are some common emotional or mental challenges that PhD students might face throughout their studies, beyond the practical considerations discussed in the article? A. Common emotional or mental challenges experienced by PhD students encompass more than just the practical aspects outlined in the article. These challenges may include feelings of isolation, imposter syndrome, burnout from intense workloads, and the pressure to produce original research amidst setbacks and failures. Q. How does the perceived value of a PhD differ across various industries or academic disciplines, and how might this impact an individual’s decision to pursue advanced research? A. The perceived value of a PhD varies significantly across different industries and academic fields. While some sectors highly prioritize advanced degrees for career advancement, others may place more emphasis on practical experience or specialized skills. Understanding this variability is crucial if you’re deciding whether to do a PhD, as it directly influences their career prospects and potential pathways post-graduation. Q. Can you provide more detail on the financial assistance options available for PhD students, such as scholarships or grants, and how these might alleviate the financial strain mentioned in the article? A. Financial assistance for PhD students can come in various forms, including: • Scholarships. • Grants. • Teaching assistantships. • Research assistantships. • Part-time jobs. These resources play a vital role in alleviating the financial burden associated with pursuing a PhD, such as tuition fees and living expenses. Exploring these options and understanding their availability can significantly impact a student’s decision-making process regarding the feasibility of undertaking doctoral studies.

Deciding Whether to Do a PhD In Summary

That’s my personal advice on deciding whether to do a PhD. In short, you’ll be financially poorer off in the short term, and completing a PhD can be incredibly straining.

However, if you want to pursue a career in academia, it’s basically a requirement. Plus, you will learn practical skills, make lifelong friends, and have a higher earning potential in some fields.

Did you fund yourself during your PhD, and if so, how? Did you find your experience of completing one rewarding, taxing, or both? Let us know in the comments section below.

Originally published November 13, 2013. Reviewed and updated in December 2020 and March 2024.

I am a PhD qualified research professional with a strong background in Translational Medicine and Biomedical research. This has involved carrying out research into a variety of diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory lung disease, cancer and cardiovascular disease and drug allergy/hypersensitivity. I gained experience in laboratory and research management and now work in medical education regulation.

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