how long does a phd course take

How Long Does it Take To Get A PhD? Doctorate Degree Timeline

Starting a PhD means you’re ready for a big academic adventure, full of tough challenges and exciting discoveries.

If you’re thinking about going for it, you’re probably wondering just how much time you’ll need to commit to this big goal.

For full-time PhD students, the journey typically take 3-6 years. However, if you’re juggling other commitments and opt for a part-time PhD, the timeline can extend to 7 years to complete, sometimes more.  

This article breaks down what the PhD journey looks like, what can make it longer or shorter, and some tips on how to make it through.

If you’re curious about how long it’ll take to add ‘Dr.’ before your name, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the world of PhD timelines!

How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD?

The answer here isn’t straightforward, as it hinges on various factors, including:

• the discipline,
• the institution, and
• whether you’re a full-time or part-time student.

For full-time PhD students, the journey typically take 3-6 years. However, if you’re juggling other commitments and opt for a part-time PhD, the timeline can extend to 7 years to complete, sometimes more.  

Distance learning PhD programs offer flexibility but similarly require a substantial time commitment, often mirroring the length of part-time studies.

The heart of a doctoral program is the dissertation, a rigorous research project that demands an in-depth exploration of your chosen field. This phase alone can take several months to years, significantly influencing the overall length of your PhD journey.

Beyond the dissertation, coursework, exams, and sometimes teaching responsibilities add layers to the doctoral experience.

The requirements for a PhD vary widely across disciplines and institutions. For instance, a doctorate in the sciences might involve extensive lab work, potentially extending the time to completion.

In contrast, a doctorate in the arts could hinge more on coursework and creative output, leading to variations in the timeline.

Does A Doctorate Degree Take Longer Than Masters?

A doctorate degree typically takes longer to complete than a master’s degree.

While a master’s program can often be completed in 1-2 years of full-time study, a doctoral program usually requires 4-6 years, depending on the:

• research complexity, and
• whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time.

The doctoral journey is more than just additional coursework; it involves conducting original research, writing a comprehensive dissertation, and often teaching or engaging in professional development activities.

The dissertation phase, which requires students to contribute new knowledge to their field, is particularly time-consuming and can extend the duration of a PhD program significantly.

The time it takes to complete a doctorate can be influenced by your

• research topic,
• funding availability, and
• the level of support from advisors and faculty. 

Master’s programs are typically more structured, with a clearer set of coursework requirements and a shorter thesis or capstone project, leading to a quicker path to graduation.

Why Does It Take So Long To Finish Doctoral Program?

Starting a doctoral program is a significant commitment, often taking longer than anticipated. If you wonder why it takes so long, here are a couple of reasons you can think about: 

Extensive Coursework

Initially, you might think coursework in your PhD study is just a continuation of your previous studies.

Doctoral level courses are a different beast. They demand not just understanding but the ability to critically analyze and apply complex concepts.

Each course can feel like a mini research project, requiring more than just classroom attendance. This phase lays the foundation but is time-consuming.

The Dissertation

The heart of your doctoral journey is your dissertation. This isn’t just a long essay or an extended research paper. It’s an original contribution to your field, requiring:

• exhaustive research,
• experimentation, and

Some students find their research path straightforward, while others may hit unexpected roadblocks or need to pivot their focus, extending the time required.

Part-Time Study

Many PhD candidates choose a part-time path due to work, family, or other commitments. While this flexibility is crucial for many, it stretches the duration of the program.

What a full-time student might complete in 4-6 years, part-time students might take 7 years or more to finish.

Funding and Resources

Access to funding and resources can significantly impact the timeline. Some projects require extensive fieldwork, specialised equipment, or access to rare materials. Delays in funding or accessing necessary resources can stall progress.

If funding is an issue, consider applying for work outside of the university. You can also try your luck with the university, as a research or teaching assistant , or more.

Academic Publishing

As part of the doctoral process, many students are encouraged or required to publish their findings.

However, the process of submitting to academic journals, undergoing peer review, and possibly revising and resubmitting, is lengthy.

This step is crucial for the academic community but adds time to the doctoral timeline. If may help to start writing and publishing work earlier to ensure you have enough time to finish.

Faculty Supervision and Mentorship

The relationship with your advisor or supervisory committee is pivotal. These mentors gatekeep your studies, as they:

• guide your research,
• provide feedback, and
• approve your progress.

Scheduling conflicts, feedback loops, and the iterative nature of research can add semesters or even years to your timeline.

Personal Growth and Professional Development

Beyond the academic requirements, doctoral students often engage in teaching, attend conferences, and network within their academic community. These activities contribute to your professional development but also extend your time in the program.

Factors That Influence The Time To Get A PhD

The time it takes to complete PhD is influenced by a multitude of factors, each significant in its own right. Let’s delve deeper into these elements to understand the intricacies of the PhD voyage.

The Scope of Research :

The ambition of your research can significantly dictate the duration of your PhD. Some projects will need more time and commitment, especially if they:

• Demand extensive fieldwork,
• elaborate experiments, or
• groundbreaking theoretical developments.

Imagine embarking on a quest that not only seeks answers but also questions the very foundations of your field. Such endeavours are thrilling but inherently time-consuming, often extending the PhD journey beyond the typical timeframe.

Program Structure and Requirements

The architecture of a PhD program—its coursework, qualifying exams, and other prerequisites—lays the groundwork for your academic expedition.

Programs with a heavy load of initial coursework aim to equip you with a broad foundation, yet this can elongate the path to your actual dissertation work. 

Mode of Study

The decision between full-time and part-time study is pivotal. A full-time commitment allows you to immerse yourself in research, ideally hastening progress.

Yet, life’s obligations may necessitate a part-time route, extending the journey but offering flexibility.

Distance learning, with its inherent flexibility, caters to those balancing diverse commitments, yet this mode, too, can stretch the timeline, particularly if it lacks the immediacy and intensity of on-campus engagement.

Quality of Supervision

The symbiotic relationship with your advisor is the compass guiding your research voyage. An advisor who is both a mentor and a critic, offering timely and constructive feedback, can expedite your journey.

Less engaged supervision may leave you adrift, prolonging the process as you navigate the academic waters largely on your own.

Worse still, if you are unlucky enough, you may end up with supervisors that not only does not help you, but actively attempt to make your study life difficult. These nightmare scenarios do exist, and you should be aware of them.

Financial Stability

The financial underpinnings of your PhD endeavor are more critical than often acknowledged. Consistent funding allows you to dedicate yourself fully to your research, free from financial distractions.

Conversely, the absence of stable support might necessitate part-time employment, diluting focus and extending the timeline.

Resource Availability

Access to specialized resources—be it state-of-the-art laboratories, rare archival collections, or cutting-edge software—can be the wind in your PhD sails.

Limited or delayed access to these essential tools, however, can stall progress, turning what could be a swift journey into a prolonged odyssey.

If you found yourself in a position without the right resources to complete your PhD, consider to propose your university to allow you to work with other universities with what you need. If this is not possible, you can always transfer university, although this would mean more work.

Publishing Requirements

The adage “publish or perish” holds particularly true in the realm of PhD studies. The process of getting your research published, from initial submission to eventual acceptance, is fraught with delays and revisions. Each publication cycle can add months to your timeline,

Yet these publications are crucial stepping stones towards establishing your academic credibility. In fact, some universities want you to publish papers to graduate.

Personal Life and Circumstances

The journey towards a PhD is not undertaken in academic isolation. Life, with its unforeseen challenges and responsibilities, continues.

Personal circumstances can impact your ability to devote time and energy to your studies, necessitating pauses or a reduction in research intensity.

These issues can range from situation such as:

• such as health issues,
• family commitments, or
• significant life events

Tips To Earn Your Doctoral Degree Fast

Earning a doctoral degree is a significant academic endeavor, often perceived as a marathon rather than a sprint. However, with strategic planning and focused effort, you can navigate this journey more swiftly than you might expect.

Here are some tips to help you earn your doctoral degree faster, drawing from the experiences and strategies of successful PhD candidates.

Choose Your Program Wisely

The structure of the PhD program you choose can greatly influence how long it takes to complete your degree. Programs that allow you to start your dissertation research early, even while completing your coursework, can save you a considerable amount of time.

Some program are designed to integrate dissertation work with coursework, enabling a more seamless transition into the research phase.

Opt for Full-Time Study If Possible

While part-time PhD programs offer flexibility for working professionals, full-time study allows for a more immersive research experience.

Dedicating all your working hours to your doctoral research can expedite the process, reducing the time it takes to get your PhD significantly.

Secure Adequate Funding

Financial stability is key to focusing fully on your research without the distraction of part-time work. Look for:

• scholarships,
• grants, and
• funding opportunities from your institution.

You can also try to secure funding from external sources like the National Science Foundation. 

Secure funding not only supports your financial needs but also often comes with academic resources that can accelerate your research progress.

Develop a Strong Relationship with Your Advisor

Your advisor is your guide through the PhD process. A supportive advisor can provide invaluable feedback, help you navigate academic challenges, and keep you on track.

Regular meetings and clear communication with your advisor can help you refine your research direction and avoid time-consuming pitfalls.

Focus Your Research

A well-defined research question can provide a clear path forward. The more focused your research, the less likely you are to get bogged down in unmanageable amounts of data or tangential studies.

It’s about depth rather than breadth; delving deeply into a specific area can lead to significant contributions to your field and a quicker path to completion.

Take Advantage of Existing Research and Resources

Don’t reinvent the wheel. Building on existing research and utilizing available resources can save you time. This includes:

• leveraging datasets,
• using established methodologies, and c
• ollaborating with other researchers.

Access to resources like specialized labs or archives, as provided by your institution, can also streamline the research process.

Stay Organized and Manage Your Time Effectively

Good time management is crucial. Set realistic goals, create a timeline for your research and writing, and stick to it.

Tools like Gantt charts can help you visualize your PhD timeline, including key milestones like coursework completion, comprehensive exams, and dissertation chapters.

Get Your PhD Without Taking Too Much Time – Possible

The journey to obtaining a PhD is a unique blend of personal commitment, academic rigor, and research innovation.

While the timeline can vary widely, most candidates find themselves immersed in their studies and research for anywhere from 4 to 6 years. Exceptions can happen, and you may finish earlier or later.

Key factors like your field of study, the nature of your research, and your personal life circumstances play significant roles in shaping your individual journey.

Remember, earning a PhD is more than just a race to the finish line; it’s a profound journey of learning, discovery, and personal growth. Embrace the journey, stay focused, and the day you earn the title of ‘Doctor’ will be a milestone to remember.

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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• Graduate School

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD?: A Go-Getter’s Guide to Graduation

Featured Expert: Dr. Charlene Hoi, PhD

How long does it take to get a PhD? On average, PhD programs are 4 or 5 years long. The time it takes to get a PhD is slightly longer in the US, between 4-6 years, because these programs tend to be more structured. If you want to know how to get a PhD in Canada or Europe, you can expect it to take 3-5 years. However, there are PhD programs that take longer, such as part-time programs, or are extremely short, like online accelerated PhD programs. Ultimately, how long it takes to get a PhD is up to you. In this article, we’ll look at the average PhD program lengths, the typical PhD timeline, and tips on how to get your PhD finished faster.

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Article Contents 13 min read

How long does it take to get a phd.

On average, it takes 4-5 years to complete a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program. In the US, most PhD programs are between 4-6 years, while in Canada they are typically shorter, around 3-4 years.

Some students take longer than 6 years to complete their PhD, but in general the longest time it takes to get a PhD is capped at 8 years. If you’re enrolling in a part-time PhD program, for instance, your timeline will probably be extended to 6-8 years.

The shortest PhD programs out there are accelerated or sometimes online PhD programs. Some of these are only 1-2 years long, but there are comparatively fewer programs available, and they are only suitable for certain fields and careers which require less intensive research which defines most PhD programs.

One of the main reasons why it takes many years to get a PhD is because these programs are comprehensive and the requirements to graduate are extensive. Most have a set number of credit hours you need to complete, examinations to write, plus you’ll need to write your PhD thesis or dissertation, unless you pursue a PhD without dissertation .

There are certainly ways to shorten the PhD application timeline and time to graduate, which includes enrolling in a shorter program if possible, increasing your course load or the number of research hours you can dedicate per week, but generally a PhD will still take some time.

Even if you want to do a PhD without a master’s degree first, such as by applying to a direct entry PhD program, the program is still usually 4-5 years long.

We’ll take a look at the typical PhD timeline and how long it takes to get a PhD normally. After, we’ll cover some tips on how to get your PhD done faster or how you can avoid dragging things out.

In North America, the typical PhD program is divided into two stages. The first stage is where you complete all the required coursework, comprehensive exams and other academic requirements, depending on the program. The second stage is when you submit a proposal for original, independent research, get it approved and start working on your thesis or dissertation. Your PhD culminates with your thesis defense. Once your thesis has been approved, you’ll be eligible to graduate.

This timeline is somewhat flexible, as you might complete the first stage in 1 or 2 years but take longer to complete your dissertation. For the purpose of this general PhD schedule, we’ll assume your PhD program is a typical length of 4-6 years.

Application Stage

We’ve included the application stage of getting your PhD here first because the grad school application timeline can take several months to put together your application package and hear back about acceptance to a program. Secondly, because the application stage involves some critical steps you’ll need to complete in order to get your PhD.

1. Research proposal

To apply to a PhD program, you’ll most likely be required to submit a research proposal and be prepared to answer any research proposal questions your advisor will have. This is your “proposal” of what research question you will explore during your studies at a program, or an outline of what research topic you want to pursue. If you’re not sure how to write a research proposal, check out these Oxford PhD proposal samples or a Cambridge PhD proposal sample.

2. Application materials

The admission requirements for a PhD can vary from program to program, but here are the general components of a PhD application:

• Required prerequisite coursework
• Official transcripts (and minimum GPA)
• Graduate school statement of purpose
• CV for graduate school or research resume
• PhD motivation letter

Some programs may also ask you to submit additional essays, such as a letter of intent, research interest statement or grad school career goals statement .

Many PhD programs also invite you to a grad school interview to get to know you better. Be ready for common graduate school interview questions such as “ tell me about yourself ” and “ why do you want to do a PhD ?”

PhD Years 1-3: Coursework Stage

1. orientation.

Your PhD program will usually begin with your orientation, where you’ll learn about the program’s individual structure, requirements and expectations. You’ll also either choose or be assigned an academic advisor and schedule an initial meeting with them. Your advisor will be a member of the university faculty who will act as your support while you complete your research and write your thesis.

2. Coursework

The first year or two of your PhD will involve completing required advanced coursework in your field. You’ll attend lectures and seminars and you may participate in research projects with department faculty or fellow graduate students or even lab work, depending on your field.

3. Electives

Along with required coursework, you’ll have the chance to take elective courses that interest you or relate to your field. It’s important to choose electives that will enrich your program. Choose ones that really interest you, that might help inform your PhD research or that will help you fulfill your credit requirements.

4. Extracurriculars

PhD programs sometimes have extracurricular activities or additional requirements outside the classroom. This can include internships or a practicum you need to complete for credit, or you might be interested in attending academic conferences or relevant events to socialize and network you’re your colleagues in the field.

5. Comprehensive exams

The coursework stage of your PhD program will end with comprehensive exams , sometimes called qualifying or preliminary exams. These are your “final exams” to make sure that you completed the necessary PhD coursework and that you’re ready and qualified to take on your own independent research in the next phase.

1. Thesis proposal

You may recall that you submitted a research proposal as part of your PhD application, and this step of the process is similar. Your thesis proposal is just like your research proposal, but it’s a more refined and developed version. Throughout your coursework, your research question might have changed or you might have changed course a little bit. If you’re still thinking about your PhD topic , take the time to solidify it before you reach the thesis proposal stage.

Your research proposal might have been a first draft, while your thesis proposal is your official announcement of: this is what I propose to research in this PhD program.

Depending on your field and the program, you thesis research might involve a great deal of lab work, or data collection or fieldwork. Whatever the case, your thesis proposal is a complete outline of what you intend to do for this independent research project and the steps you’ll take.

2. Thesis approval

Once your proposal is written, you’ll submit it for approval. Your academic advisor, PhD supervisor or the PhD committee overseeing your program will review it and either approve it or make suggestions for changes. Once it’s been polished and finalized, you’ll be given the go ahead to start conducting your research.

3. PhD research

Your research alone will probably take you several semesters to complete. On top of the fieldwork, lab work or data collection and analysis you’ll be completing, you’ll be using this time to write and review. Writing your thesis or dissertation takes a fair number of hours to outline, draft, edit and complete. It also means hitting the books to complete a literature review of your research topic so you have a complete background understanding of your chosen topic and how it will inform your research.

Your research and the preparation of your thesis is really the biggest part of this second stage, and is probably the longest part of your PhD altogether.

4. Extra requirements

When you’re not deep in your research, you’ll be completing other requirements of your PhD program or additional duties that enrich your education. Some programs require you to dedicate some hours to teaching, whether it be leading seminars for undergraduate students or acting as a teaching assistant for university faculty.

You’ll also be strongly encouraged to publish as a graduate student , so you may be involved in the research projects of faculty members or other grad students when you’re not working on your dissertation.

5. Thesis submission and preparation for thesis defense

When you’re finished writing your thesis and you’re ready to submit it, it’s critical to know how to prepare for thesis defense . Because not only do you have to complete this original, new body of research work, you have to get the approval of your PhD committee to put it out into the world.

Your thesis defense is essentially the final presentation of your PhD.

6. Thesis defense

Your thesis defense is an oral presentation of your research project, but it also involves submitting your written document to be reviewed. Essentially, you’ll present the entirety of your thesis to the PhD supervising committee, including your findings and conclusions. From there, the committee will ask thesis defense questions . Your answers will defend your methodology and results to the committee, basically proving the value and validity of your work. While this is an evaluation of sorts, it is also your opportunity to share your original ideas and invite further research into your topic.

After your defense, the PhD committee will either approve your thesis or send it back to you with edits or changes to be made before it can be formally approved.

Graduation and Postdoc

Once your thesis has been approved, congratulations! You’ll be eligible for graduation and be awarded your degree. Now that you’ve finished this marathon, you can choose to pursue further studies or start looking for a job after grad school .

With a PhD, you have many different options for positions in your field. You might want to know how to find a job in academia or how to get a tenure track position at a university if you’re interested in teaching others. PhD graduates who decide to transition from academia to industry or who would rather work outside the realm of academia can find industry jobs after PhD that suit their skills and experiences.

Either way, you’ll need to prepare for how to find a postdoc position, explore what the career options are for you, decide what your career goals are and start sending out applications. Remember to prep your postdoc resume and get read for postdoc interview questions , since the job hunt will begin soon after you finish your PhD!

Is it possible to get your PhD done faster? What are some ways you can speed up the process and avoid taking 8 years to complete your graduate studies? Luckily, there are many key ways you can make your journey through grad school easier and speed things up a little, from the type of PhD program you choose to the habits and skills you cultivate during your program.

#1 Enroll in an accelerated program

The first way to guarantee it will take less time to get your PhD is to, of course, enroll in a shorter PhD program. Direct entry PhD programs allow you to enroll once you’ve completed your bachelor’s degree in exceptional circumstances. Note that these are not the easiest PhD programs to get into , as your academic record needs to be excellent, and you’ll likely need prior research experience and you may even need to have publications already. However, a direct entry PhD program is around 4-5 years, but it allows you to skip the 1-2 years it would take to earn a master’s degree.

You can also choose to enroll in an online or accelerated PhD program that is designed to be much shorter than the traditional PhD. Once again, though, these programs are not available to students in every field, so you may need to research whether there are any options for you.

#2 Choose the right mentor

One of the first things you can do to ensure your PhD is smooth sailing is to choose the right mentor or academic advisor. Many programs allow you to choose your advisor, while some assign one to you. Whatever the case, it’s important to establish a strong working relationship and clear expectations early on.

One of the first things you’ll do as a PhD student is meet with your advisor. Take the time to discuss with them what your expectations for the program are, ask questions and ask them what their expectations are of you. Your advisor is there to help you and advise you, and they have resources and connections you can use to your advantage. But they are also working with a busy schedule and might be advising more than one PhD student, too. A mutually respectful relationship with open communication will ensure fewer interpersonal hurdles down the road.

#3 Earn credit hours faster

One way you can shave some time off your PhD is by earning your credit hours faster and getting to the research and thesis-writing stage faster. This might mean you take on a full-time course load or ask your advisor for ways to earn extra credit, such as participating in research projects. Some PhD programs will give you course credit for previous graduate level coursework you might have completed during your master’s degree, or for certifications and professional education you completed outside of school.

#4 Keep your thesis focused

When you get started on your research, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with the amount of work you need to complete, with the writing of your thesis on top of it all. One way to keep your research hyper-focused and on point is to keep your thesis topic narrow. If your subject is too broad, you’ll be spending way too much time in your research. Give yourself clear objectives and scope, and don’t deviate from your PhD proposal if you don’t have to.

There may be a million questions you want to explore within your PhD topic, but there will be other opportunities to explore them. Keep your focus narrow so you don’t spend years and years asking and answering research questions!

One of the best things you can do to get your PhD done faster and adjust to the experience of graduate school is to change your thinking. Adopt a growth mindset so that you’re open to new learning, willing to listen to constructive feedback on your proposal or thesis and willing to grow your skills. A PhD is an advanced program, and you’ll already be very skilled, but it is also an opportunity to learn and grow. There will be challenges for you, so be ready to meet and overcome them instead of letting them draw you back or slow you down.

#5 Develop your professional skills fast

A PhD is an opportunity to grow your professional skillset as much as it is an opportunity for you to contribute meaningfully to your field. If you haven’t already been working on skills such as communication, presenting or lecturing and writing, now is the time to start.

Strong writing skills will help you get your thesis finished and edited faster, as you’ll be more familiar with the process and understand what makes a strong document. It’s also a useful skill to learn how to write effective funding proposals or grant proposals. You may need to do so to secure funding for your research, but it’s a highly valuable skill in the workforce, too.

Good presentation skills will help you during your thesis defense or if you’re asked to present during a conference. They will also help you build confidence in your voice and ideas and make you a better communicator when you’re networking or job searching.

#6 Keep to your schedule

This is maybe the most important skill if you want to finish your PhD faster: make a detailed schedule and hold yourself accountable to it. If you like, you can plan out your entire PhD week by week from Day 1. Write down what your course schedule is, when you’ll do research and how many hours, when you’ll write and how many hours, what extracurriculars or personal activities will take up your time and so on.

A detailed schedule gives you an overview of your PhD and a timeline of when you’ll finish. It will keep you organized and accountable, so you can avoid procrastinating or avoidable speed bumps that might slow you down. It also helps you compartmentalize the many items on your to-do list so you don’t stress out about how much you need to accomplish.

When creating your schedule, especially during the research stage when there is no formal class schedule for you to adhere to, focus on deliverables. Set a date when you will submit a section of your thesis to your advisor, or when you will complete your literature review. Setting goals and clear outcomes will keep you on track and focused.

#7 Take initiative and be independent

The last tip to help you get your PhD done faster is to take initiative. Remember that a PhD is a largely independent endeavor. You’ll have the support of a committee or advisor, but you can’t rely on them to do the work for you or put everything on hold if they aren’t available when you need them. Be flexible and adaptable so you can keep working and moving forward, even if your schedule gets interrupted or needs to change to suit your situation.

It's also important to take the initiative in your learning. Take advantage of opportunities for growth, networking, and gaining experience where you can. Get the most out of your PhD program and use your experiences to fuel your end goal of completing your thesis.

On average, it takes 4-5 years to get a PhD. There are a few factors that can influence the time it takes to complete your PhD, from program length and structure to what country you are earning your PhD in, to your own personal work ethic and schedule.

PhD programs in the US are on average 4-6 years. In Canada and the UK, they are usually 3-5 years long. Part-time PhD programs may take up to 7-8 years to complete. Direct-entry PhD programs and dual master’s and PhD programs are typically 5 years long. If you’re enrolling in an online, hybrid or accelerated PhD program, the timeline is usually 2-3 years, but there are some extremely short 1-year PhD programs offered online for specific disciplines.

Yes, you can finish your PhD before the “normal” timeline. For example, if you complete your coursework early, if you finish writing your thesis faster than average and get it approved, or if you otherwise complete all your PhD program requirements before the anticipated finish date. 

Yes, there are online PhDs available for certain fields and disciplines. These typically range from 2-3 years, although there are some traditional 4-year PhD programs offered online. There are also some “accelerated” online PhDs which last 12-18 months.

A PhD program is not necessarily shorter if you first complete a master’s degree, but having gone through a master’s program can better prepare you to finish your PhD faster. Some PhD programs accept credit hours from your master’s degree towards the coursework requirements for a PhD, and if you’ve previously written a master’s thesis or completed some research during your graduate studies, this will be an advantage. Since you’ll already be familiar with the process of writing a thesis and conducting your own research, you can avoid some stumbling blocks in your PhD program that might otherwise slow down your progress.

Yes, it is possible to get a PhD without first completing a master’s degree. There are direct entry PhD programs that allow students with a bachelor’s degree to enroll, so long as they meet the admission requirements and have exceptional academic records. Some online PhDs also waive the master’s degree requirement.

Yes, it is possible to complete a traditional PhD program in a shorter amount of time than anticipate. This usually means dedicating yourself to full-time study or taking on a larger course load and increased research hours. It takes significant work, but it can be done with the right schedule and commitment.

The fastest PhD programs are the short, 1-year accelerated programs. These programs have fewer credit hours to complete, and some have no dissertation requirement, only qualifying exams to finish. However, there are not many programs out there, and they are not available for every field of interest.

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Research Tips and Infromation

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

Earning a Ph.D. is a remarkable academic achievement, often seen as the pinnacle of one’s educational journey. It’s a pursuit that demands unwavering dedication, intellectual prowess, and an unshakable commitment to research. Yet, when setting out on this academic odyssey, prospective doctoral students often find themselves grappling with a common question: How long will it take to reach the coveted destination of a PhD?

In the world of academia, where timeframes can be as diverse as the subjects studied, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The duration of a PhD program can be influenced by a multitude of factors, ranging from the chosen field of study to the country in which one embarks on this intellectual voyage.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the intricate web of considerations that determine the timeline of a Ph.D. We’ll delve into the typical duration, international variations, the stages of the Ph.D. journey, and even the strategies that can expedite or prolong this academic quest.

Through real-life experiences and insights, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the fascinating, challenging, and often unpredictable timeline associated with pursuing a PhD.

So, if you’ve ever wondered about the time commitment required for a PhD, join us on this educational voyage as we uncover the secrets of this academic adventure and navigate the complex terrain of doctoral studies.

Introduction

Factors influencing phd duration, typical duration of phd, phd duration: variations by country, stages of a phd program, shortening the phd timeline, lengthening the timeline of phd.

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is the highest academic degree one can attain. It represents expertise in a specific field and often involves original research contributing to the world’s knowledge. However, this academic feat isn’t for the faint of heart. To embark on this journey, you should be aware of the formidable challenges it presents, and one of the most fundamental questions is, “How long will it take?” In the introduction, you can touch upon the idea of academic ambition, the pursuit of knowledge, and the unique challenges that come with obtaining a Ph.D.

It’s essential to emphasize why understanding the time commitment is crucial. Pursuing a Ph.D. isn’t just an intellectual endeavor; it’s also a significant personal and professional commitment. It can impact one’s life, career, and even mental and emotional well-being. You can mention that by knowing what you’re getting into time-wise, you can make informed decisions about your academic and career goals. For instance, if you’re aware that a Ph.D. typically takes several years, you can plan your life accordingly, set expectations, and ensure you have the necessary resources and support in place.

Imagine standing at the crossroads of ambition and dedication. You’re passionate about a particular field, and the thought of making a meaningful contribution to it excites you. You dream of becoming a respected expert, perhaps even shaping the future of your discipline. This ambition has led you to consider pursuing a PhD, a journey that represents the highest echelon of academic achievement.

But before you dive into the world of research, scholarly papers, and intellectual debates, there’s a critical question that looms large—how long will it take to earn that coveted Doctor of Philosophy degree? The answer isn’t as straightforward as one might hope. It’s a complex equation, influenced by various factors, and it’s a puzzle that many aspiring doctoral students grapple with.

Understanding the time commitment of a PhD is not merely a matter of academic curiosity. It’s a pivotal factor that can shape your life’s trajectory in significant ways. This introduction explores the intricacies of a PhD journey, from the initial spark of academic passion to the profound understanding of what it takes, in terms of time, to turn that passion into a doctoral reality.

Earning a PhD is a highly individualized journey, and its duration can vary significantly from person to person. This section will delve into the myriad factors that play a role in determining the length of a PhD program. It’s important to understand that the timeline is not a fixed number of years but is influenced by various variables. Here are some key factors:

• Field of Study: The nature of your research area has a significant impact. Some fields, such as the natural sciences or engineering, might require extensive laboratory work and data collection, which can lengthen the Ph.D. process. In contrast, fields like humanities or social sciences might involve less time-intensive data collection but demand extensive writing and analysis.
• Country: The country in which you pursue your PhD can greatly affect the duration. Different countries have different academic systems and expectations. For example, in the United States, it’s common for PhD programs to last longer compared to some European countries where they tend to be shorter and more structured.
• Research Focus: The specific focus of your research project can influence the time required. If your research involves cutting-edge, complex topics, it might take longer to gather and analyze data or develop new methodologies. On the other hand, a well-defined and less ambitious research question could lead to a quicker completion.

Let’s take a closer look at the intricate web of factors that influence the duration of a PhD program. Imagine two students, both embarking on their journeys to earn a PhD, but in different fields.

Student A is pursuing a PhD in physics. This field often involves conducting elaborate experiments, gathering extensive data, and fine-tuning intricate instruments. The pursuit of new discoveries in the realm of physics can be time-consuming, and the PhD program might extend to several years to complete all the necessary research.

Student B, on the other hand, is studying literature and cultural studies. Their research involves in-depth analysis of existing texts, interpretations, and critical theories. While the reading and writing process is extensive, it may not require as many years as Student A’s experimental work.

Now, consider these students in the context of the country in which they are pursuing their PhD Student A is in the United States, where doctoral programs typically span several years. Meanwhile, Student B is in a European country known for its structured and shorter Ph.D. programs.

Lastly, let’s factor in research focus. Student A’s project is ambitious, attempting to uncover the mysteries of the universe, which can be a time-intensive endeavor. In contrast, Student B’s research question is more narrowly defined, making the path to completion relatively shorter.

These examples illustrate how the combination of field of study, country, and research focus can significantly influence the duration of a PhD program.

Understanding the average duration of a PhD program can help prospective students set realistic expectations. This section will provide an overview of the typical timeframes for completing a PhD.

• Average Duration: On a global scale, a PhD program often spans between 5 to 7 years. This period includes coursework, research, and the writing and defense of a dissertation. However, it’s important to note that this duration can vary significantly. In the United States , for instance, it’s common for PhD programs to take longer, often 5 to 7 years or even more, due to the inclusion of coursework and comprehensive exams. In contrast, in some European countries, PhD programs are designed to be shorter, typically around 3 to 4 years, as they are research-focused with less emphasis on coursework.
• Variations by Field: The average duration can also differ based on the field of study. Fields requiring extensive data collection, such as the natural sciences or engineering, might take longer, while fields like humanities or social sciences with more writing and analysis may have shorter timeframes.

When it comes to the average duration of a PhD program, the common adage ‘it’s a marathon, not a sprint’ certainly applies. The typical journey to a PhD is a long and demanding one, taking aspiring scholars through a series of rigorous academic challenges.

Globally, a PhD program often spans between 5 to 7 years. This period includes the initial coursework phase, where students delve deep into the theoretical foundations of their field. This is followed by a substantial research phase, during which they gather data, conduct experiments, or engage in extensive fieldwork. Finally, the culmination of this journey is the completion and defense of a dissertation, a written document that contributes new knowledge to their field.

However, it’s crucial to remember that these timeframes are general averages and can vary significantly based on various factors. In the United States, for example, it’s quite common for PhD programs to extend to the longer end of the spectrum, taking 5 to 7 years or even more to complete. This is because American PhD programs often include a significant coursework component and comprehensive exams before the dissertation phase begins.

On the other hand, in some European countries, PhD programs are designed to be more streamlined and research-focused. They typically take around 3 to 4 years to complete, reflecting a shorter timeframe. This structure is influenced by the belief that students entering PhD programs are already well-prepared in their chosen field, and the primary focus is on conducting independent research.

Additionally, the duration can also vary based on the specific field of study. Fields that require extensive data collection or experimental work, such as the natural sciences or engineering, tend to have longer PhD programs. In contrast, fields like humanities or social sciences, where research involves more reading, writing, and analysis, may have shorter timeframes.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and individual PhD experiences can deviate from the average.

Ph.D. program durations can vary significantly between countries due to differences in educational systems and academic traditions. This section will explore how and why PhD programs’ lengths differ by country.

• United States: In the United States, PhD programs are known for their comprehensive structure. They often include a combination of coursework, comprehensive exams, and dissertation research. This makes them typically longer, often spanning 5 to 7 years or more.
• European Countries: In many European countries, PhD programs are more streamlined and research-focused. They tend to be shorter, typically around 3 to 4 years. European programs often assume that students have a strong foundation in their field when they enter the Ph.D. phase.
• Other Countries: The duration of PhD programs can also vary in other parts of the world. For instance, in some Asian countries, the length of a PhD program can be influenced by the nature of the research and the institution’s specific requirements.

When contemplating the pursuit of a Ph.D., it’s important to recognize that the path you tread can be markedly different depending on the country in which you choose to study. The world’s countries have diverse academic systems and traditions, and these intricacies play a significant role in shaping the duration of PhD programs.

Consider the United States, a country renowned for its rigorous academic programs. Here, PhD programs are known for their comprehensive nature. Students often undergo a period of intensive coursework, followed by comprehensive exams to assess their knowledge. This is in addition to the research phase, which involves conducting experiments, gathering data, or delving deep into the chosen area of study. As a result, PhD programs in the United States are often among the longer ones, frequently taking 5 to 7 years or even more to complete.

In contrast, many European countries have adopted a more streamlined approach to PhD programs. These programs tend to be research-focused from the outset, with the assumption that students entering PhD programs already possess a strong foundation in their chosen field. The result is a shorter program, typically spanning around 3 to 4 years. In countries like the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Denmark, students can transition directly into their research, which contributes to the shorter duration.

Outside of the United States and Europe, PhD program lengths can vary significantly depending on the country’s educational system and specific institutional requirements. For instance, in certain Asian countries, PhD programs might also be research-intensive and shorter in duration, or they might extend to accommodate the complexity of the research involved.

It’s important to understand these country-specific variations when considering a PhD program, as they can have a profound impact on the length of your academic journey.

A Ph.D. program is not a single, continuous journey but is typically divided into distinct stages. This section will provide an overview of the common stages of a PhD program, which include coursework, research, and dissertation writing.

• Coursework: The journey usually starts with a coursework phase, where students dive deep into the theoretical foundations of their field. During this stage, students take classes and seminars to build a strong academic foundation. The duration of this stage varies by country and field but generally lasts from 1 to 2 years.
• Comprehensive Exams: In some countries, notably the United States, students are required to pass comprehensive exams to demonstrate their mastery of their field. This stage can add a few months to a couple of years to the timeline.
• Research Phase: After coursework and exams, students transition into the research phase, which is the heart of a Ph.D. program. This phase involves conducting original research, experiments, fieldwork, or in-depth analysis, depending on the field of study. It can last several years, usually 3 to 5 years or more, depending on the complexity of the research and the progress made.
• Dissertation Writing: The final stage involves writing the PhD dissertation, a comprehensive document that presents the research findings and contributes to the academic field. The duration of this stage varies but often takes at least a year.

A PhD program is akin to an academic epic, with distinct stages that collectively make up the hero’s journey. As an aspiring doctoral candidate, it’s essential to understand the key stages you’ll encounter along the way.

The odyssey begins with coursework. During this initial stage, students embark on a voyage into the theoretical underpinnings of their chosen field. They attend classes, seminars, and lectures to deepen their understanding. This coursework phase, which can last anywhere from 1 to 2 years, serves as the foundation upon which the rest of the journey is built.

In some countries, particularly the United States, there’s another formidable challenge—comprehensive exams. These exams test the student’s mastery of the field’s core concepts and are often required before moving on to the next stage. Comprehensive exams can extend the journey by several months to a couple of years.

The heart of the PhD journey lies in the research phase. This is where students immerse themselves in original research, which could entail conducting experiments, gathering data, or engaging in extensive fieldwork, depending on their field of study. The duration of this stage is the most variable, spanning approximately 3 to 5 years or even longer, depending on the complexity of the research and the progress made.

Lastly, the culmination of the PhD adventure is the dissertation writing stage. Here, students craft a comprehensive document that presents their research findings, methodology, and contributions to the academic field. This final stage can vary in length but often takes at least a year to complete.

These stages collectively shape the journey towards a PhD, and understanding them is vital for anyone embarking on this academic odyssey.

While earning a Ph.D. is a significant commitment, there are strategies to expedite the process. This section will discuss strategies and approaches that can help shorten the timeline of your PhD journey .

• Efficient Time Management: Effective time management is essential for expediting a PhD program. Planning and prioritizing tasks, setting clear goals, and maintaining a structured schedule can help students make the most of their research and coursework, reducing the time spent on unnecessary or unproductive activities.
• Choosing the Right Advisor: The relationship between a Ph.D. student and their advisor can significantly impact the program’s duration. A supportive and experienced advisor can guide the student effectively, provide valuable insights, and help them navigate research challenges more efficiently. A strong advisor-student relationship can lead to better research progress and a quicker completion.
• Prior Research Experience: Entering a PhD program with prior research experience can be a significant advantage. If you’ve already conducted research related to your PhD topic during a master’s program or as an undergraduate, you may be able to accelerate your research and data collection, potentially shortening the overall timeline.

When it comes to earning a PhD, the duration can be an intimidating factor. However, it’s important to remember that there are strategies that can help expedite the journey. Let’s explore some of these approaches:

One of the most fundamental strategies is efficient time management. Effective planning, prioritization, and maintaining a structured schedule can make a world of difference. By setting clear goals and staying organized, students can optimize their time and reduce the risk of distractions or time wasted on non-essential activities. This approach ensures that every moment spent on research or coursework is meaningful and productive.

Another pivotal factor is the choice of an advisor. The advisor-student relationship plays a crucial role in a Ph.D. program. A supportive, experienced, and engaged advisor can guide a student through the research process more effectively. They can offer valuable insights, help troubleshoot research challenges, and provide a sense of direction. With the right advisor, students often find themselves making more efficient progress and thus shortening the overall timeline of their PhD journey.

For those entering a PhD program with prior research experience, there’s an advantage. If you’ve already dabbled in research during your master’s program or as an undergraduate, you’re poised for a quicker start. The knowledge, skills, and methodologies you’ve acquired can significantly expedite your research and data collection, potentially helping you complete your PhD in less time.

These strategies, when applied thoughtfully, can make the road to a PhD a bit smoother and shorter, ultimately allowing students to achieve their academic goals more efficiently.

While shortening the Ph.D. journey is a common goal, there are situations that can unexpectedly lengthen the timeline. This section will discuss various reasons a Ph.D. might take longer than expected, including research challenges and personal circumstances.

• Complex Research Challenges: Research is at the core of a Ph.D., and sometimes, research challenges can extend the timeline. For instance, unexpected technical issues, data collection difficulties, or unanticipated roadblocks in the research process can delay progress. Dealing with these complexities often requires additional time and problem-solving efforts.
• Scope of the Project: Sometimes, students may underestimate the scope of their research project. If the research topic turns out to be more extensive or multifaceted than initially anticipated, it can lead to a longer journey. Expanding the research scope can also be driven by a desire to make a more substantial contribution to the field.
• Personal Circumstances: Personal circumstances can also play a significant role in lengthening the timeline. Life events, such as family responsibilities, health issues, or other personal challenges, can disrupt the academic trajectory and extend the Ph.D. program.

While aspiring doctoral candidates often set out with the goal of completing their PhD as efficiently as possible, it’s important to acknowledge that unexpected factors can sometimes extend the journey. Let’s delve into some of the reasons a PhD might take longer than initially expected:

One of the most common factors is research challenges. Research is the backbone of a Ph.D., and it’s not uncommon to encounter unanticipated complexities along the way. For instance, imagine a Ph.D. student in the field of environmental science who encounters technical issues with specialized equipment required for data collection. These unexpected hurdles can require additional time and effort to resolve, extending the research phase.

Another factor that can elongate the timeline is the scope of the project. Sometimes, students may begin their research with a particular understanding of the project’s scale, only to discover that the topic is more extensive or multifaceted than initially thought. This realization can lead to an expansion of the research scope, often driven by the desire to make a more significant and impactful contribution to the field. While noble in its intent, this expansion can result in a longer and more extensive research phase.

Personal circumstances can also have a profound impact. Life doesn’t always adhere to the academic calendar, and various personal challenges can disrupt the PhD journey. These challenges can include family responsibilities, health issues, or other unforeseen life events. Balancing these personal circumstances with academic commitments can sometimes lead to a longer timeline for completing a PhD.

It’s crucial to recognize that while we often have our sights set on a timely completion, the PhD journey can be influenced by a myriad of unforeseen factors. Overcoming these challenges is a testament to resilience and dedication in the pursuit of knowledge.

I have written several articles related to PhD. You can visit them Here. These articles will guide you in the smooth completion of your PhD.

An unconventional PhD demands quality publications and presentations. I have written articles related to Research Journals and Research Conferences. Please visit them

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To sum it up, figuring out how long a Ph.D. takes is like solving a puzzle. In the U.S., it’s a bit like a long journey, taking about 5 to 7 years, while in Europe, it’s more like a focused sprint, finishing in about 3 to 4 years.

We also learned about the different stages of a Ph.D., from classes to big research and a huge paper called a dissertation. Some folks speed up their Ph.D. by managing time well, picking a good advisor, or using past research experience. But unexpected stuff, like tough research problems or personal things, can make the Ph.D. journey longer.

In Ph.D. land, time is like money you spend to learn and get smart. Whether someone is thinking about starting a Ph.D. or already on the journey, it’s their special story. Enjoy the good parts, handle the tough bits, and feel proud of becoming a real expert, adding to what everyone knows together.

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How Long Does It Take to Earn a PhD?

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How long is a PhD program? That might be one of the first questions you ask yourself If you are thinking of earning a PhD. You have probably heard a range of years, and that is because how long it takes to earn a PhD depends on a number of factors. Keep reading to learn more!! 

What is a PhD? 

PhD stands for a “Doctorate of Philosophy.” This is an academic degree that qualifies the degree holder to teach their chosen subject at university level or to work in a specialized position in their chosen field. In general, the PhD is the highest level of degree a student can achieve. 

Also see: Top fully funded PhD programs

Why get a PhD? 

A PhD is a serious commitment with a serious return on investment. Here is a list of professional and personal benefits for earning a PhD. 

How long does it take to earn a PhD? 

Earning a PhD usually takes between four and seven years to complete, depending on the type of PhD as well as the schools requirements, the students educational background, and personal progress. Students who take full-time classes can typically finish in four years. A typical PhD program requires anywhere from 60 to 120 semester credit hours . 

Why earning a PhD takes years to earn

Assistantship obligations.

Teaching and research assistantships can be very beneficial for the experience they provide and the potential funding, but they can also be time consuming obligations for PhD students. Therefore, assistantships may affect the amount of time it takes to complete a PhD program. 

Comprehensive examinations

Universities often require students to demonstrate their readiness in a PhD program through comprehensive exams. These comprehensive exams may be known as: 

• Preliminary examinations
• Major field examinations
• Comprehensive exams or “Comps”
• General examinations

Dissertation

A dissertation is an in-depth research document that serves as the culmination of a doctoral program. It is an important document that demonstrates a student’s original research and contribution to their field of study. 

The dissertation involves conducting extensive research, reviewing previous literature, analyzing data, and presenting your findings in a structured manner. Once the dissertation is completed, it is typically defended orally in front of a committee of faculty members who assess the quality and validity of the research. 

Average PhD timeline

The specific of a PhD timeline carried by college and university. However, the following is a good overview of the average PhD program. 

• Year 1: Take advanced courses
• Year 2: Take advanced courses and begin preparing for exams
• Year 3: Study, take and defend your comprehensive exams and begin researching your dissertation proposal
• Year 4: Begin working on your dissertation
• Year 5: Finish and defend your dissertation 

Average PhD completion by focus

According to data from the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics the average time in years from graduate school entry to doctorate it took students to receive their degree in 2020 in certain fields is listed below. 

• Life sciences = 6.9 years
• Physical sciences and earth sciences = 6.3 years
• Mathematics and computer sciences = 7.0 years
• Psychology and social sciences = 7.9 years
• Engineering = 6.8 years
• Education = 12.0 years
• Humanities and arts = 9.6 years
• Other non-S&E fields = 9.3 years

Related : Top 10 PhD in Education programs

How to finish your PhD is less time

Look for accelerated classes.

Accelerated courses are an easy way to reduce the amount of time it takes to finish a PhD. Therefore, look into if your program offers any shorter courses. 

Work on your dissertation throughout the program

Working on your dissertation little by little throughout the program will allow you to speed up your doctoral timeline. In addition, it may reduce the likelihood that you’ll drop out before finishing your final project.

Maintain regular communication with your advisor

Establish regular communication with your advisor or supervisor. Regular meetings can help you receive guidance, address any issues, and ensure you are heading in the right direction.

Seek feedback early and often

Share your work and progress with your advisor, peers, or other trusted individuals often. Then, you should incorporate suggestions and revisions as you go along. This will help you refine your work and avoid major revisions later.  

Maintain a healthy school-life balance

While it is important to be dedicated to your PhD, it’s just as important to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Therefore, be sure to prioritize yourself! While finishing your PhD in less time is a great feat, it is important that you are not sacrificing your well-being while doing so.

Key Takeaways

• PhD stands for “doctorate of philosophy” and is generally the highest level of degree a student can earn
• There are many professional and personal benefits to earning a PhD which can lead to a serious return on investment
• A PhD program typically takes 4-7 years to complete. However, it can take longer or shorter depending on personal circumstances and field of study 
• With planning and guidance from advisors, students can sometimes complete PhDs in less time

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Frequently asked questions about how long it takes to earn a PhD 

Do i need to have a master’s degree to get a phd, what is the easiest phd to earn, can i finish my phd earlier than the estimated time frame, what happens if i don’t complete my phd within the expected timeframe, can i work while pursuing a phd, can i accelerate the process of earning a phd, scholarships360 recommended.

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How Long Does It Take To Get a Ph.D.? Find Out!

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One life-changing decision you can make is to pursue a Ph.D. ; While getting a Ph.D. is a challenging journey, it can be very beneficial and rewarding in the long run in terms of employment and financial gains. 

After years of studying, finishing a bachelor’s and then a master’s degree , you might have an idea whether pursuing a Ph.D. degree is the right path for you or not. But if you’re still having doubts, keep reading the article to learn everything you need to know about what a Ph.D. entails, how long it takes, and why getting a Ph.D. is beneficial.

What Is a Ph.D. Degree?

So, what exactly is a Ph.D.? Simply put, the word Ph.D., which comes from the Latin “Philosophiae Doctor,” is an abbreviation of Doctor of Philosophy . It is a research degree in a specific field that is taken by students who already have a solid educational foundation; they have a bachelor’s as well as a master’s degree. 

A Ph.D. is essentially the highest academic qualification given to students who complete a particular program, have published scientific articles, and defended their field-specific dissertation.

It is easy to confuse a Ph.D. with a doctorate degree . People tend to make this mistake because of how similar these words sound. However, certain aspects of these degrees make them different from each other.

Although these terms are often used interchangeably in the academic world, a doctorate is a general term that includes different fields, from professional degrees to scientific disciplines. It is essentially a practice-oriented degree with a direct application to a specific career, specifically designed to equip students with the necessary skills to use their knowledge to provide solutions to existing real-world problems. A Ph.D., on the other hand, is a subclass of a doctorate degree characterized by a theoretical and research-oriented nature.

Having made the distinction between a doctorate and a Ph.D. , let’s look into further specifics regarding the nature of a Ph.D. degree, such as entry requirements, coursework, and what you can do with a Ph.D. degree in terms of career opportunities.

Ph.D. degree entry requirements

If you decide to apply for a Ph.D. degree, you should know the entry requirements. While there are several entry requirements, you should keep in mind that they can vary based on the specific field of your interest. 

Before embarking on a Ph.D. journey, students should have already finished their bachelor’s and master’s studies in their field of interest. Here is a general list of the documentation requirements you must meet to be considered for admission here at University of the Potomac (UOTP):

•  UOTP application form,
•  Registration application form,
•  Official transcripts from every university you attended,
•  A master’s degree from an accredited institution,
•  Education or professional training certificates,
•  An application essay,
•  An interview with UOTP,
•  GRE or MAT scores.

Ph.D. degree coursework

One question you might have regarding Ph.D. is whether it requires any coursework, and if yes, what kind of coursework. Coursework is an essential part of a Ph.D. degree. As mentioned earlier, the Ph.D. degree is a research-based degree. This means that Ph.D. students start their journey by doing advanced coursework in a particular subject which helps them identify areas of interest. 

Students must identify research areas for their dissertation or doctoral thesis . After identifying a research area, Ph.D. students work with their mentors in research, teaching, and research methodology. The dissertation, which is the final requirement, is an original research paper conducted by a Ph.D. candidate in their field of specialty that is presented to a faculty committee.

What can you do with a Ph.D. degree?

Earning a Ph.D. degree opens the door to many opportunities in both academic and non-academic careers. Most Ph.D. workers in academia have high positions, such as university deans and presidents, and their responsibilities include teaching, researching, and administrative duties.

On the other hand, the non-academic industries where Ph.D. graduates work include professional specialty or executive, managerial, and administrative occupations.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Ph.D.?

While certain Ph.D. programs take longer to complete than others, generally, Ph.D. candidates take 5 or 6 years to complete their degree.

Ph.D. timeline

Below is a general summary of the timeline of a Ph.D. :

• Consult your advisor regarding every aspect of your Ph.D. program and its requirements;
• The supervisory committee must be created in the first year and must hold meetings regarding the particular research project;
•  You must take the comprehensive exam in the second year;
•  You must conduct your dissertation research;
• After meeting the requirements of the curriculum, a deadline for finishing the dissertation must be set;
• Consult the whole dissertation with your advisor and select the external examiners;
• Once your thesis is approved, you have to defend your thesis, which is done through an oral exam that lasts 2.5 to 3 hours.

Online vs. campus

You can obtain a Ph.D. degree either online or on campus . The popularity of online Ph.D. degrees is increasing day by day. The general benefits of an online degree apply to the online Ph.D. degree as well, such as flexibility, lower costs, and recognition by employers .

Before embarking on an online Ph.D. journey, you have to ensure that the online program of your choice is accredited.

Comprehensive examinations

One requirement Ph.D. students have to complete is to go through comprehensive examinations. The sole purpose of comprehensive examinations is to determine whether a Ph.D. student has acquired the necessary knowledge of a particular field of study and whether the student can be considered eligible to do original research.

The comprehensive examination has two phases, specifically the written and oral exams. The written exam tests your ability to apply your knowledge to formulate good research questions and solve research issues. The oral exam contains questions regarding your research and answers you gave on the written exam.

Ph.D. dissertation and defense

The last step towards completing your Ph.D. studies is your dissertation defense. The Ph.D. dissertation is an original research paper conducted by a Ph.D. candidate, which is then presented orally in front of a committee. In order to publicly defend the dissertation, a student must first get approval. If the defense is successful, then the paper is sent to the school’s archive, and the Ph.D. candidate receives their degree.

Why Get a Ph.D.?

Given the dedication and time required to do a Ph.D., you might naturally wonder, “Is a Ph.D. even worth all this effort?” The answer is yes. While you might have your own reasons for embarking on a Ph.D. journey, and whether they are career-oriented or financial reasons, getting a Ph.D. can be beneficial in several ways. 

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You become an expert in the field

Ph.D. degrees are pursued only by the most passionate learners and those willing to dedicate their time and effort to it. The extensive research you will have to conduct during your Ph.D. studies will make you a better researcher by equipping you with the necessary research skills. During Ph.D. studies, you conduct research as well as explore and analyze your own areas of interest. All of this will definitely contribute to making you an expert in your field.

You have more career opportunities

As stated before, a Ph.D. degree will get you jobs in many academic and non-academic settings. There are many jobs that require a Ph.D . Some of them include the following:

• Research scientist,
• Anthropologist,
• Psychiatrist, etc.

You earn a better salary

Getting a Ph.D. will help you land higher-paying jobs. According to the BLS, Ph.D. graduates have the lowest unemployment rate (which is 1.5%) among other graduates, while the salary is the highest. The weekly earnings of a Ph.D. worker are around $1,909 .

Considering the Personal and Lifestyle Impacts of Pursuing a Ph.D.

When pursuing a Ph.D., it’s important to remember that it will impact your academic growth, personal life, and lifestyle. Therefore, it’s crucial to take into account these often-overlooked aspects.

Time management and work-life balance

Pursuing a Ph.D. demands rigorous time management. Balancing extensive research, demanding coursework, and personal responsibilities can be overwhelming. It’s about finding time for your studies and ensuring you don’t neglect your personal life. Effective time management strategies, such as creating a structured schedule and setting realistic goals, are essential to maintain this delicate balance.

Mental health and stress management

The path to a Ph.D. can be mentally taxing. Many students experience stress, anxiety, and even imposter syndrome. Acknowledging these challenges is the first step towards managing them. Regular self-care routines, seeking support from peers and mental health professionals, and taking breaks when necessary are vital for your mental well-being.

Financial considerations

Let’s talk finances. Pursuing a Ph.D. often means forgoing full-time employment for several years. While there are funding opportunities like scholarships and stipends, these might not cover all expenses. It’s important to plan your finances carefully, considering both the immediate costs and the long-term benefits.

Social life and relationships

Your social life is likely to take a hit during your Ph.D. studies. Long hours of research can lead to isolation, affecting your relationships. However, maintaining a healthy social life is crucial. Building a support network within your academic community and making time for family and friends can provide the necessary balance.

Personal growth and development

Despite the challenges, pursuing a Ph.D. offers unparalleled personal growth. You’ll develop both academically and in terms of problem-solving skills, resilience, and independence. These years will shape you in ways beyond the academic realm.

Long-term career and life goals

Finally, reflect on how a Ph.D. aligns with your long-term goals. This degree is not just a career move; it’s a life choice. How does it fit into your broader aspirations, both professionally and personally? Ensure that this path aligns with where you see yourself in the future.

Final Thoughts

Enrolling in a Ph.D. program is not an easy decision to make. Qualifications mentioned above might be the entry requirements; however, mental determination and dedication are the essential components for successfully completing any Ph.D. program.

Hopefully, our article will help and guide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision on whether to embark or not in a Ph.D. journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is a ph.d. degree.

A Ph.D., or Doctor of Philosophy, is a research degree and the highest academic qualification in a specific field. It requires a solid educational foundation, typically including a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, and involves completing a program, publishing scientific articles, and defending a field-specific dissertation.

How is a Ph.D. different from a doctorate?

While often used interchangeably, a doctorate is a general term encompassing various degrees in different fields, including professional and scientific disciplines. A Ph.D. is a subclass of a doctorate, characterized by its theoretical and research-oriented nature.

What are the entry requirements for a Ph.D. degree?

Requirements can vary but generally include a completed bachelor’s and master’s degree in the field of interest, official transcripts from previous universities, a CV, an application essay, GRE or MAT scores, and an interview.

Does a Ph.D. require coursework?

Yes, Ph.D. programs typically start with advanced coursework in a specific subject, helping students identify research areas for their dissertation or thesis.

What career opportunities are available with a Ph.D. degree?

Ph.D. holders can pursue high positions in academia (like university deans and presidents) or various professional roles in non-academic sectors, including law, research science, linguistics, anthropology, psychiatry, etc.

What is the Ph.D. dissertation and defense process?

The dissertation is an original research paper conducted by the Ph.D. candidate. After getting approval, the candidate defends their dissertation orally in front of a committee. Successful defense leads to the degree being awarded and the paper archived by the school.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get a phd.

This varies by country. In the United States, PhDs usually take between 5–7 years: 2 years of coursework followed by 3–5 years of independent research work to produce a dissertation.

In the rest of the world, students normally have a master’s degree before beginning the PhD, so they proceed directly to the research stage and complete a PhD in 3–5 years.

Frequently asked questions: Graduate school

In the US, most graduate school applications require you to include:

• Transcripts from previous educational institutions
• Standardized test scores (such as the GRE or MCAT)
• A graduate resume
• 2–3 letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose

Some programs may ask you to write a personal statement in addition to, or instead of, a statement of purpose. You may also be asked to an interview .

Always carefully read the application instructions for the specific program you’re applying to.

Most medical school programs interview candidates, as do many (though not all) leading law and business schools.

In research programs, it depends—PhDs in business usually do, while those in economics normally do not, for example.

Some schools interview everyone, while others only interview their top candidates. Look at the websites of the schools you’re applying to for more information on whether they conduct interviews.

In addition to thinking about your answers for the most commonly asked grad school interview questions , you should reach out to former and current students to ask their advice on preparing and what sort of questions will be asked.

Look back through your resume and come up with anecdotes that you could use for common questions, particularly those that ask about obstacles that you overcame. If you’re applying for a research program, ensure that you can talk about the previous research experience you’ve had.

You should also read as much research in your field as possible. Research the faculty at the schools you’re applying to and read some of their papers. Come up with a few questions that you could ask them.

Graduate schools often ask questions about why you are interested in this particular program and what you will contribute.

Try to stay away from cliche answers like “this is a good program” or “I got good grades in undergrad” and focus instead on the unique strengths of the program or what you will bring to the table. Understand what the program is looking for and come up with anecdotes that demonstrate why you are a good fit for them.

Different types of programs may also focus on different questions:

• Research programs will often ask what topics you’d like to research and who you would like to work with, as well as specific questions about your research background.
• Medical schools are interested in your personal motivation, qualities such as integrity and empathy, and how you’d respond to common ethical dilemmas.
• Business schools will focus on your past work experience and future career prospects, and may be particularly interested in any experience you have managing or working with others.

Some students apply to graduate school straight from undergrad, but it’s also common to go back to school later in life. The ideal time to do so depends on various financial, personal, and career considerations . Graduate school is a big commitment, so you should apply at a time when you can devote your full attention to it.

Your career path may also determine when you should apply. In some career fields, you can easily progress without a graduate degree, while in others—such as medicine, business, and law—it’s virtually impossible to move up the career ladder without a specific graduate degree.

Most graduate school applications for American graduate programs are due in December or January for a September start.

Some types of programs, especially law school, are rolling applications, meaning that the earlier you apply, the earlier you’ll hear back. In this case, you should aim to apply as early as possible to maximize your chances.

Medical school follows a completely separate timeline with much earlier deadlines. If you’re applying for medical school, you should speak to advisors at your university for more information.

A good starting point to aim for is about 18 months before you would start the program, or 6–9 months before the applications are due.

In the first few months of the process, research programs and study for any standardized exams you might need.

You can then begin writing your personal statements and statements of purpose , as well as contacting people to write your letters of recommendation . Ensure that you give recommenders plenty of time to complete their letters (ideally around 2–4 months).

In the US, the graduate school application process is similar whether you’re applying for a master’s or a PhD . Both require letters of recommendation , a statement of purpose or personal statement , a resume or CV , and transcripts. Programs in the US and Canada usually also require a certain type of standardized test—often the GRE.

Outside the US, PhD programs usually also require applicants to write a research proposal , because students are expected to begin dissertation research in the first year of their PhD.

A master’s degree usually has a higher upfront cost, but it also allows you to start earning a higher salary more quickly. The exact cost depends on the country and the school: private universities usually cost more than public ones, and European degrees usually cost less than North American ones. There are limited possibilities for financial aid.

PhDs often waive tuition fees and offer a living stipend in exchange for a teaching or research assistantship. However, they take many years to complete, during which time you earn very little.

This depends on the country. In the United States, you can generally go directly to a PhD  with only a bachelor’s degree, as a master’s program is included as part of the doctoral program.

Elsewhere, you generally need to graduate from a research-intensive master’s degree before continuing to the PhD.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

It’s best to ask in person if possible, so first reach out and request a meeting to discuss your graduate school plans.

Let the potential recommender know which programs you’re applying to, and ask if they feel they can provide a strong letter of recommendation . A lukewarm recommendation can be the kiss of death for an application, so make sure your letter writers are enthusiastic about recommending you and your work!

Always remember to remain polite. Your recommenders are doing you a favor by taking the time to write a letter in support of your graduate school goals.

This depends on the program that you are applying for. Generally, for professional programs like business and policy school, you should ask managers who can speak to your future leadership potential and ability to succeed in your chosen career path.

However, in other graduate programs, you should mostly ask your former professors or research supervisors to write your recommendation letters , unless you have worked in a job that corresponds closely with your chosen field (e.g., as a full-time research assistant).

Choose people who know your work well and can speak to your ability to succeed in the program that you are applying to.

Remember, it is far more important to choose someone who knows you well than someone well-known. You may have taken classes with more prominent professors, but if they haven’t worked closely with you, they probably can’t write you a strong letter.

The sections in your graduate school resume depend on two things: your experience, and the focus of the program you’re applying to.

Always start with your education. If you have more than one degree, list the most recent one first.

The title and order of the other sections depend on what you want to emphasize. You might include things like:

• Professional experience
• Voluntary and extracurricular activities
• Publications
• Awards and honors
• Skills and certifications

The resume should aim for a balance between two things: giving a snapshot of what you’ve done with your life so far, and showing that you’re a good candidate for graduate study.

A resume is typically shorter than a CV, giving only the most relevant professional and educational highlights.

An academic CV should give full details of your education and career, including lists of publications and presentations, certifications, memberships, grants, and research projects. Because it is more comprehensive, it’s acceptable for an academic CV to be many pages long.

Note that, outside of the US, resume and CV are often used interchangeably.

No, don’t include your high school courses and grades. The education section should only detail your college education.

If you want to discuss aspects of high school in your graduate school application, you can include this in your personal statement .

A resume for a graduate school application is typically no more than 1–2 pages long.

Note, however, that if you are asked to submit a CV (curriculum vitae), you should give comprehensive details of all your academic experience. An academic CV can be much longer than a normal resume.

Always carefully check the instructions and adhere to any length requirements for each application.

If you’re applying to multiple graduate school programs, you should tailor your personal statement to each application.

Some applications provide a prompt or question. In this case, you might have to write a new personal statement from scratch: the most important task is to respond to what you have been asked.

If there’s no prompt or guidelines, you can re-use the same idea for your personal statement – but change the details wherever relevant, making sure to emphasize why you’re applying to this specific program.

If the application also includes other essays, such as a statement of purpose , you might have to revise your personal statement to avoid repeating the same information.

The typical length of a personal statement for graduate school applications is between 500 and 1,000 words.

Different programs have different requirements, so always check if there’s a minimum or maximum length and stick to the guidelines. If there is no recommended word count, aim for no more than 1-2 pages.

A statement of purpose is usually more formal, focusing on your academic or professional goals. It shouldn’t include anything that isn’t directly relevant to the application.

A personal statement can often be more creative. It might tell a story that isn’t directly related to the application, but that shows something about your personality, values, and motivations.

However, both types of document have the same overall goal: to demonstrate your potential as a graduate student and s how why you’re a great match for the program.

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Scribbr’s Plagiarism Checker is powered by elements of Turnitin’s Similarity Checker , namely the plagiarism detection software and the Internet Archive and Premium Scholarly Publications content databases .

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The Scribbr Citation Generator is developed using the open-source Citation Style Language (CSL) project and Frank Bennett’s citeproc-js . It’s the same technology used by dozens of other popular citation tools, including Mendeley and Zotero.

You can find all the citation styles and locales used in the Scribbr Citation Generator in our publicly accessible repository on Github .

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

If you aspire to rise to the top of your field, then you may have your sights set on a PhD.

Earning a doctoral degree can be a years-long process, but choosing an accelerated doctoral online program may help you complete your program more quickly.

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Whether you’re wanting to earn one of the highest paying doctoral degrees or you have a specific one in mind, this guide can help walk you through how long it takes to complete your PhD program.

For a traditional, campus-based PhD program, the average time to finish a PhD is 8 years. Fulfilling the program’s requirements will often demand a serious investment of your time.

Even still, some people are able to finish their programs in just 3 to 6 years. Multiple factors may influence the overall length of your program.

Required Credit Hours

Many PhD programs require you to earn 120 credit hours before entering the exam and dissertation phases.

Fortunately, there are PhD programs without such high credit-hour demands. For example, at some universities, you may earn a PhD with only 60 credit hours.

Full-Time vs. Part-Time Schedule

Enrolling in a doctoral program part-time may allow you to keep up with your regular job. You’ll have to decide whether you prefer the flexibility of part-time schooling or the faster schedule of full-time studies.

Final Project Requirements

Many PhD programs end with the completion of a dissertation. This assignment may take years to complete, so PhD students often end up in the all-but-dissertation (ABD) phase for quite some time.

University Scheduling

Some schools promote their ability to help you through the PhD process faster than normal. Accelerated class schedules with eight-week online courses may speed your studies along. Focused attention from dissertation advisors may help as well.

PhD Program Components

Before you enroll in a PhD program, it’s important to know some of the basic requirements:

Prerequisites

Most schools require you to already hold a master’s degree, but some offer bachelor’s-to-PhD programs.

Length to Completion

On average, it takes eight years to earn a PhD. Even still, completing doctoral coursework and a dissertation in three to four years is not unheard of.

Topic of Interest

PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be getting a philosophy degree. Your field of study will depend on your interests and the programs that your university offers. You may tailor your doctoral focus though your choice of a dissertation topic.

Steps to Completion

You’ll take advanced classes before sitting for comprehensive exams. After passing your exams, you’ll likely begin working on a dissertation. You must defend your dissertation before finishing your program.

Doctoral studies begin with a series of classes through which you may increase your knowledge of your field of study and learn about conducting research. These are advanced classes, so they should be more in-depth than the ones you took during your undergraduate and master’s programs.

The number of courses that you need to take can vary significantly. It’s not uncommon for PhD programs to require 120 credit hours of coursework. That amounts to about 40 classes.

At other schools, the requirements are lower. Your university’s program may involve just 60 credit hours or, possibly, even fewer. A less intense course load may significantly slash your time to completion.

Your university may require you to maintain a GPA above a minimum threshold. An unsatisfactory GPA may keep you from moving on to the next step of the PhD process.

Comprehensive Examinations

Universities often require students to demonstrate their readiness for a doctoral project before advancing to the next stage of their studies. Readiness is proven through comprehensive exams , which may also be known as:

• Preliminary examinations
• Major field examinations
• General examinations

Often, comprehensive exams take the form of written or oral tests. In other situations, faculty may assess students’ readiness on the basis of a portfolio evaluation or a written paper.

Dissertation and Defense

A dissertation, also known as a graduate thesis, is a body of work that presents original research in your field. This manuscript focuses on a unique idea and includes evidence to support your thesis. During your doctoral studies, there are classes designed to help prepare you for your dissertation work.

The dissertation process may take several years. Once your manuscript is complete, you must defend it to the doctoral program faculty. After your defense, you may need to do further work on your manuscript, or the committee may decide that your dissertation is complete.

Not all programs require a dissertation. Instead, there may be an alternative doctoral project. Although both dissertations and capstone projects are rigorous, projects can sometimes be completed within a shorter time frame.

Average Time to Complete PhD by Field of Study

Students in some disciplines usually take a lot more time to finish their doctoral work than students in other fields.

If you’re studying in the following scientific fields, you may be more likely to earn your on-campus degree in seven years or less:

• Physics — average of five years
• Psychology — average of five to seven years

On the other hand, if your field of study relates more to the humanities, your on-campus degree program may take longer:

• History — average of eight years
• English — average of eight years
• Education — average of 13 years

These are the traditional figures. There are ways to finish faster.

Why Does It Take So Long to Finish a Traditional PhD?

Some schools require doctoral students to take around 40 classes, which, in a traditional on-campus setting, may take years. After completing the coursework, you must write your dissertation and defend it. The dissertation process alone might take multiple years.

Doctoral programs online may help shorten the PhD process to three or four years. Fewer credit hours may be required, and the classes may be delivered in an accelerated format.

Schools with an emphasis on quick doctoral programs may also offer dissertation advisors to efficiently guide students through that phase. Alternatively, some universities allow students to complete capstone projects that don’t take as long as dissertations.

Getting a PhD Online vs. Campus

Online education has changed students’ options for earning a PhD. These days, aspiring students may choose whether to attend classes on a college campus or online.

Traditional programs may require you to relocate to the university’s campus and attend school full-time. On average, it takes just over eight years to complete those programs. The benefits of choosing an online school instead may include:

Faster Progress

Accelerated eight-week courses may allow you to finish your course load sooner. You may complete your entire program in just three or four years.

Multiple Start Dates

Online programs often let you join throughout the year, so you don’t have to put your studies on hold until the fall semester.

Flexibility

Not being required to move to campus or come to class at set times may allow you to work your studies around your schedule.

Equal Status

Online programs are just as rigorous as on-campus ones. As long as your university is accredited, your degree will be just as valuable as one from a traditional university setting.

Cost-Savings

Finishing your doctoral studies faster may mean that you pay less tuition.

How to Finish Your PhD in Less Time

Although you can’t earn a doctoral degree overnight, you shouldn’t have to spend the majority of your working years striving toward PhD-completion. The following tips for accelerating the PhD process may help you finish your studies more quickly than the average doctoral student.

1. Use What You Already Know

Every school requires a minimum number of credit hours that you must earn in the pursuit of your degree. To help you meet this threshold, some schools will allow you to transfer in credits from other doctoral programs. Universities may also give you credit for your professional experience. Reducing your class load may save you both time and money.

2. Look for Short Classes

Accelerated course schedules are one of the best ways to speed through the degree process. Every eight weeks, you’ll begin a new set of classes. Over the course of a year, there may be five different sessions during which you can take classes.

3. Work on Your Dissertation Throughout the Program

Traditionally, dissertation work begins once the classroom portion of your studies is over. Quick doctoral programs may allow you to begin the dissertation process while you’re still taking other classes. This approach, known as an embedded dissertation, may reduce the likelihood that you’ll drop out before finishing your final project. It might also speed up your doctoral timeline.

4. Ask for Help

A lack of support can lead some doctoral students to drop out. On the other hand, having a good support system can help you push through and finish your program more quickly. Build a team of family, friends, and academic mentors who can encourage you, guide you, and lend practical help when you’re feeling overwhelmed by school.

Why Get a PhD?

You may need to earn a doctoral degree to achieve your career goals . For example, if you want to become a clinical psychologist, this level of study is essential. Many scientific and research positions require doctoral studies. University faculty typically need to hold terminal degrees as well.

Even if a doctorate is not a requirement for your desired line of work, it may help you achieve greater success. You might be granted higher levels of responsibility, and you may earn more money. In some fields, those who hold PhDs make around 20% more than those with master’s degrees, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

Do You Have to Have a Master’s Degree to Get a PhD?

Many schools consider a master’s degree an essential prerequisite for PhD admission. If you don’t already have a master’s degree, a bachelor’s-to-doctorate program may allow you to earn a master’s and a PhD for less time and money than it would take to pursue them separately.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD After a Master’s?

You may be able to complete your doctoral program in three to four years if you opt for an accelerated online program. On average, traditional on-campus PhD programs take around eight years to complete.

How Hard Is It to Finish a PhD?

Doctoral studies are challenging. That shouldn’t come as a surprise; if doctorates were easy to acquire, nearly every college graduate would end up with a PhD behind his or her name.

Approximately 50% of students who begin a PhD program don’t end up finishing. Many quit within two years of starting. Another large portion gives up upon reaching the dissertation phase.

Although all PhD programs are challenging, the flexible nature of online programs may help you find success. Choosing a doctoral track that doesn’t require a dissertation may help as well.

What Is the Easiest PhD to Get?

All PhD programs are demanding, but you might have an easier time if you select a program that aligns with your interests and your career goals. The flexibility of online study may help your doctoral program seem less burdensome. In addition, capstone projects are sometimes easier than writing dissertations.

If earning a doctoral degree in a short time frame is important to you, then consider the many potential benefits that online programs have to offer. Within just a few years, you may be able to place the letters “PhD” at the end of your name.

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How Do You Get a PhD? A Guide to the PhD Timeline

Everyone who considers a doctoral degree knows a PhD is a big commitment. 

Not only will it require all your mental energy, focus, and persistence, but it will also require a significant investment of your time. Your particular area of research, your institution’s policies and procedures, and the standard expectations within your field affect how long it takes to earn a PhD. The average PhD length is five or six years, while some students may take eight or nine years.

Regardless of how long a PhD program takes,  there are some common stages of a PhD that all doctoral students share. These significant and essential milestones shape the timeline for earning your doctorate . Read on as we take you through each step and explore the typical steps to a doctorate degree.

How Long Do PhD Programs Take?

The number of credit hours that you need to complete your doctoral coursework might depend on several factors: do you already have a master’s degree? Will you earn one en route to the doctorate? Or do you even need one? 

Different disciplines and research interests have their own PhD process, but even within your field of study, institutions may have diverse pathways for obtaining that terminal degree. For most, coursework will take anywhere from two to three years to complete.

During this time, students can serve as graduate research or teaching assistants or could even lead their own courses as instructors. In many degree programs, students develop their potential dissertation topics through their coursework and define their research plans in the next few years.

Steps to Getting a PhD: PhD Qualifying Exam and Comprehensive Exam

Many programs set up academic checkpoints to help keep students on track during their PhD journeys. The timing varies by program, but one of the most common – and possibly most stressful – forms of benchmarking is the PhD comprehensive exam or qualifying exam. Often administered around the end of the student’s coursework, these exams are your chance to demonstrate what you learned in your classes.

A faculty committee from your department oversees testing. Usually comprised of at least three members, your professors ask questions or assign writing prompts based on your experience in the program thus far. The format is generally a combination of written and oral exams designed to test your expertise in your discipline’s methodologies and significant content areas.

To better prepare yourself, research the number and kind of qualifying benchmarks the program will require in the university catalog before you begin your program. This will allow you and your advisor to effectively plan out the first few years of your degree and give you an idea of how you’ll be evaluated throughout your program.

Doctoral Dissertation Prospectus and Defense

You may be required to complete and defend a dissertation prospectus before officially becoming a PhD candidate. A prospectus is a document outlining your dissertation plan, which includes an explanation of your research topic, a potential outline of your dissertation, the methodologies you intend to employ, the significance of your research question, and a bibliography including sources that form the foundation of your research.

Your prospectus allows your dissertation advisor to understand the scope of your project. It should be thorough enough that they can provide useful feedback to help shape your research plan. After some revisions, an approved prospectus is the green light to move into the next stage of your PhD.

Advancement to Doctoral Candidacy

If you have heard the term ABD – “All But Dissertation” – then that means you are in the home stretch of your doctoral program!

Well, sort of…only your dissertation remains!

Doctoral Dissertation Research and Writing

While you’ve made it through the coursework and qualifying exams, the dissertation is the culminating component of the doctoral degree. At this point, your approved research plan is ready to be set into motion. Depending on your discipline, this could be the stage where you travel extensively to conduct fieldwork, explore archives, or visit labs to collaborate on projects that relate to your dissertation work. For many students, the research phase can take a couple of years, but some may be able to complete it in one.

Writing your dissertation can be one of the most challenging parts of the whole PhD process. Not only are you condensing years of research into a single cohesive document, but you are also formulating graphs, charts, and other textual references to help clarify your argument. Often, formatting can be a major challenge for many students. 

In this stage, it’s most helpful to seek out resources to help you with the writing process. Many universities have dissertation writing workshops where you can learn best practices, as well as support groups where students meet regularly and help keep each other accountable. Most universities also offer competitive dissertation completion grants, supporting students with additional funding so they focus more of their time and effort on completing this undertaking.

Dissertation Defense

Everyone gets nervous about this major rite of passage. It can be difficult to take criticism over something you have poured your heart and soul into for years. Remember, though, that a good advisor will not let you defend if you’re not ready, and you literally wrote the book on your topic!

The dissertation defense is not intended to tear your work apart but rather is your opportunity to prove your expertise to your dissertation committee. Many defenses are open to observers, so you should attend a few in advance of your own, especially within your department, to get a sense of what it’s like. 

First, you’ll present the main points of your thesis. Then the committee will ask questions so they can clearly understand your arguments. Finally, they’ll send you out of the room while they deliberate and decide if you pass or not. If all goes well, you’ll be addressed as “Doctor” the next time you walk into the room!

Get Started on Your PhD Journey Today

No matter what your particular timeline looks like as you work toward your doctorate, know that the faculty and other students within your program are frequently a huge source of support — which means you won't do this alone! Additionally, every school has resources to assist PhD students, from libraries to writing centers to dedicated student support services. 

If you are excited about beginning your PhD journey, we invite you to request more information or reach out to one of our admissions professionals today. Best of luck as you begin this transformational experience!

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Frequently Asked Questions for PhD Applicants

If you have questions about the application process, please consult the Application FAQ

Program FAQ

• When is the application deadline?  December 7, 2024 11:59 PM PST is the application deadline for Autumn 2025-2026.
• I will have just earned my bachelor’s degree before starting graduate study at Stanford. Should I apply to the MS or the PhD program?  You should apply to the degree program that can fulfill your ultimate degree goal. For example, if obtaining a PhD is your ultimate goal, you should apply directly to the PhD program.
• Do I need to have a master’s degree before applying to the PhD program?  No; the minimum degree requirement is a bachelor’s degree. Students who enter the PhD program may opt to pursue the master’s degree along the way to earning the PhD.
• If I apply to the PhD program but do not get admitted, will I be considered for the MS program?  The Electrical Engineering Department does not consider PhD applicants not admitted into the PhD program for the MS program. 
• If I am admitted and enrolled in the MS program, may I enter the PhD program later?  Admission to the PhD program is possible only through the  annual general admissions process . Current MS students must reapply through this process to be considered for the PhD program.
• May I apply for a start term other than autumn? No; applications are reviewed on an annual basis for autumn quarter start only.
• How long does it take to complete the PhD?  Typical completion time for the PhD program is 5-7 years.
• How important is it to contact faculty before I apply?  Contact with faculty members is not a required part of the application process nor does it guarantee admission to our graduate program. Admissions decisions are made by the Admissions Committee, not by individual faculty members.
• Is financial assistance available for PhD students?  Yes; all PhD students who maintain satisfactory academic progress receive full financial support for the duration of the doctoral program. For more information, please see  Financial Assistance for PhD Students .
• What are the minimum GPA requirements for admission?  Applicants do not need to meet any minimum grade point average (GPA) to secure admission, and we do not release information about average GPAs of admitted students. As a guideline, successful applicants typically earn undergraduate cumulative GPAs among the top of their class. However, please keep in mind that admission to our graduate programs depends on a combination of factors, and all areas of a student’s application are weighed when applications are reviewed.
• Am I eligible to apply if my undergraduate major is not Electrical Engineering?  Yes; students who meet the minimum degree requirements with a strong technical background in engineering, physical sciences, or mathematics are welcome to apply. A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering is not strictly required.
• Are specific prerequisite courses required for admission?  No; we advise prospective applicants to review the  EE Graduate Handbook  and the  Stanford Course Catalog  to evaluate what prerequisites are needed for graduate-level courses in your area(s) of interest.
• What is the minimum level of study required of international applicants from an academic institution outside of the U.S.?  Please refer to  Stanford Graduate Admissions | International Applicants  for eligibility guidelines related to study outside of the U.S.
• What is the process for transferring to the PhD program from another institution?  Students who wish to transfer to our PhD program from another institution must complete the same application procedure as new applicants. If you are admitted and enrolled, you may request to transfer up to 45 units of coursework from your previous institution toward the PhD degree requirements at Stanford, by following the procedures for  Graduate Residency Credit . Students must complete one quarter at Stanford before requesting to transfer units, and all transferred units are subject to approval by the Registrar’s Office.
• If I am admitted to a EE graduate program, can my admission be deferred?  The Department greatly discourages deferral of matriculation dates.  Deferrals are granted only to PhD applicants, and only in exceptional circumstances such as for US military service or visa issues for students arriving from designated countries.  Admitted students wishing to defer admission must send a written request (along with documentation if possible) to  [email protected] . Requests will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. MS and Coterm applicants cannot defer admission dates.

Return to Program Overview:

• How Long Does A PhD Take?
• Doing a PhD

Sometimes, just knowing how long a PhD takes can be enough to sway your decision on whether a research degree is for you. So with that in mind, exactly how long does a PhD take?

In the UK, a full-time PhD takes 3 to 4 years to finish whilst a part-time PhD takes twice as long at 6 to 7 years. Alongside these average durations, there are time limits on how long you can be enrolled on to a PhD programme. To discover these limits, the factors which most influence doctoral degree durations and how the UK durations compare to international PhDs, continue reading on.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Full-time PhD?

In the UK, a full-time PhD will typically take you 3 to 4 years. You will usually spend the first three years on the technical aspects of your doctorate. This includes undertaking independent research, designing your research methodology and collecting and analysing data. You will then spend an additional academic year on writing up your PhD thesis and sitting your viva.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Part-time PhD?

In the UK, a part-time PhD will typically take you 6 to 7 years; twice as long as doing a full-time PhD. The reason for this is that as a part-time PhD student, you would dedicate around 20 hours per week to your PhD as opposed to the typical 40 hours full-time students would put into their subject.

How Long Does a Distance Learning PhD Take?

Similarly, distance learning PhD’s take an average of 6 to 7 years to complete. This is because the vast majority of students who undertake a distance learning PhD do so because they can’t relocate closer to the university. Although these commitments will differ, they often mean the student isn’t able to dedicate 40 hours per week to their studies.

Students in STEM disciplines will often take longer to finish a distance learning doctorate degree than those in non-STEM disciplines. This because the progress of a STEM PhD student will be limited by how often they can access a laboratory for experiment work.

How Does Funding Impact a PhD’s Duration?

In reality, the actual time it will take you to complete your PhD degree will depend on your funding situation.

If you’re receiving  funding , it will usually only cover you for 3.5 years if you’re studying full-time or for 7 years at half the stipend if you’re studying part-time. Although this could vary slightly, most PhD funding providers, e.g. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), follow this timescale as indicated on their ‘ length of PhD studentships’ page. Because of this, most students who obtain scholarships try to complete their PhD within the timeframe of their funding so they don’t incur additional fees which they need to cover themselves.

It’s also worth noting that some funded PhD positions have additional conditions attached to them as part of their eligibility requirements. For example, they may require teaching undergraduate students, hosting laboratory sessions or attend presentations and conferences. This will be especially true if you’re on a Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA). Although these shouldn’t add considerable time to the length of a PhD programme, they have the potential to do so if they aren’t managed properly.

As self-funded students cover their own annual tuition fees and other associated costs, how long they’ll spend to complete their PhD project will largely depend on their own personal financial situation. Because of this, most self-funded PhD students find it best to complete their PhD study in the shortest time-frame they can manage.

Are There Deadlines?

Yes – unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Within the UK, the deadline for your PhD is defined as the last date which you must submit your final thesis by. This date is set by your university’s overall regulations and varies depending on the arrangements of your PhD, e.g. whether it’s full or part time. In the vast majority of cases, the adopted deadlines are four years for full-time PhDs and seven years for part-time PhDs from the date you were officially registered onto your programme, as shown below from the University of Leicester’s registration guidance page .

This time-frame may vary from university to university. For example, the University of Sheffield adopts an additional year for part-time PhDs as shown below.

Can I Complete It Faster?

Although it’s possible to complete a full-time PhD in under 3 years, it’s a significant feat that’s rarely heard of. When these feats occur, they’re usually where the doctoral student already has extensive knowledge and experience in their field before undertaking their PhD.

Whilst it’s possible to complete a part-time PhD in under 6 years, it largely depends on your commitments outside your studies. For example, if you have a part-time career alongside your PhD, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to commit the additional hours required to complete your doctorate a year faster.

However, if instead of a steady part-time job you take on occasional work as a freelancer, you’ll be able to set aside many more hours towards your doctoral degree.

Will Having only A Bachelor’s Degree or Being an International Student Limit My Rate of Progression?

Not at all. While there are benefits to having a Master’s degree such as an additional year of learning and greater research experience due to your fourth-year dissertation project, this doesn’t mean not having one would limit you. A PhD is very different to both Bachelor and Master degrees due to being heavily research-based, therefore, both types of students will have just as much to learn on their way to completing their doctorate.

Similarly, whether you’re an international student will bear no influence on the duration of your PhD.

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

How Does This Compare to the Duration of EU and US PhDs?

PhD hosted by universities within the EU, such as those in France, Norway and Spain, have the same programme structure as those within the UK. As a result, there are no noticeable differences in the time to complete a doctorate between UK and EU institutions.

However, this is not the case in the US. Compared to PhDs conducted within the UK or EU, PhDs conducted within the US take considerably longer to obtain. According to a  2017 study conducted by the National Science Foundation, a US government agency which supports research and higher education, the average time to get a PhD within the US is 5.8 years. Besides this, the average completion time can further increase depending on the disciplines. For example, they found doctorates within the humanities and arts to take an average of 7.1 years to achieve.

The primary reason for this difference is the way PhD degrees are structured within the United States. As mentioned previously, PhDs conducted within UK and EU universities are essentially broken into two sections – one covering the analytical aspects and the other covering the writing up aspects. However, within the US, doctorate programmes comprise additional sections. PhD students are first required to undertake 2 to 3 years of courses, which cover a broad range of topics related to their schools’ discipline. This is then followed by coursework and several examinations, which only once passed can the PhD candidate then start working on their research project and dissertation.

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How Long Does It Take To Complete a Doctorate?

Have you ever wondered, “How many years does it take to earn a doctoral degree?” If you are considering a PhD, it is crucial to understand the time commitment involved. In this article, I will unpack the complexities of the PhD journey, offering a detailed breakdown of the various factors that influence the time it takes to receive this advanced degree.

The length of a PhD varies significantly between Europe and North America

The answer to the question, “How long does it take to get a doctorate?” depends on the location ! The length of a PhD varies significantly between Europe and North America, influenced by several factors such as funding conditions, distinct regulations in different countries and institutions of study, and research topics.

In Europe, a full-time PhD typically takes three to four years to complete, with part-time studies extending up to six years .

In Europe, the duration is shorter than in the US because most PhD programs require applicants to possess a Master’s degree. Thus, the focus is predominantly on the research project rather than coursework.

In sharp contrast, many PhD programs in the US and Canada accept applicants already with a Bachelor’s degree.  International students considering Ph.D. programs in the United States should be aware that this time frame could differ from the norm in their home countries, and factors such as visa restrictions and funding availability might further complicate the process.

The graduate program often includes a Master’s degree component, including additional coursework and examinations before the research phase. As a result,  PhD programs in the US typically span six years, with some humanities PhDs requiring seven years to complete.

The length of your program largely depends on the amount of time it takes to complete the necessary coursework, engage in original research, and write a dissertation.  Many PhD programs are designed to be completed in four to seven years , but some students  may take longer to complete  their studies. This timeframe applies to both professional doctorates and research doctorates, the two main types of Phd degrees.

How long does a doctorate take in an MD-PhD program?

An MD/PhD program allows students to earn both a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. These programs are designed to train students to become physician-scientists, who are doctors who conduct research in the biomedical sciences.

In the US, the first four years are spent in medical school, and the last 3-4 years are spent in graduate school. Thus, MD/PhD programs typically take 7-8 years to complete.

In Europe, the first 3-4 years are spent in medical school, and the last 2-3 years are spent in graduate school. Thus, MD/PhD programs typically take 6-7 years to complete.

It is improtant to note that it is a double degree that needs much more work compared to the single degrees, thus, you must carefully reflect whether an MD-PhD degree is worth it .

Masters’s Degree vs Doctor of Philosophy

It’s worth noting that some students in the US may opt for master’s programs instead of jumping straight into a PhD after their undergraduate degree. In striking contrast to Europe, in the US you can choose whether you pursue either a Master’s or a PhD degree .

Master’s programs might provide a quicker route to advanced qualifications, especially professional degrees focusing more on professional experience and less on original research. The average time to complete a masters degree is generally less than for a PhD, but it can still be a significant commitment.

Comprehensive Exams and Capstone Projects

In the US, many Ph.D. programs, whether traditional or online education, require students to pass comprehensive exams. These exams assess a student’s understanding of their particular field of study and their readiness to begin dissertation research.

After the dissertation, some programs may require capstone projects, allowing students to showcase their research projects more practically. A  capstone project  is a multifaceted final assignment students undertake, typically in their last year of an academic program, including independent research on a selected topic typically reviewed by an evaluating panel.

Choosing the Right Ph.D. Programs for economicAL reasons!

Making the right choice of Ph.D. programs can significantly impact the length of time it takes to get a doctorate. Apart from tuition fees, potential Ph.D. candidates should also factor in living costs in the area of the chosen institution. If you are a high performer, always consider  free or fully funded PhD programs .

The question, “how long does it take to get a doctorate degree?” is particular important for economical reasons, because the length of the program may have a substantial financial impact if it takes either four or eight years to complete.

Different Types of Coursework in a Ph.D. Program

Content-wise, each program has specific requirements, and the coursework may differ depending on your chosen area of study, your institution, and your country. Some programs may focus primarily on your research and publications, while others are heavily loaded with coursework.

For instance, postgraduate students in social sciences or data sciences might realize that their coursework heavily emphasizes research methods with a strong emphasis on data analysis. This may extend your studies because you may need to learn more to complete the program.

The All-important Dissertation or Thesis

Before I start, let me quickly explain some terminological confusion about the terms “dissertation” and “thesis”. In the United States, the term “dissertation” typically refers to the work submitted as part of a doctoral degree (PhD), whereas “thesis” might refer to the research project done for a master’s degree. Sometimes, “thesis” can also be used for a shorter project as part of a bachelor’s degree.

In contrast, in many other parts of the world, such as the UK, Canada, and Australia, “thesis” is often used interchangeably with “dissertation” and can refer to the document required in both master’s and doctoral programs. The term “dissertation” is sometimes used specifically for doctoral work, but this can vary.

The dissertation (or thesis), an original contribution to a specific field of knowledge, is arguably the most time-consuming part of a professional degree program . How long does it take to get a phd thesis finished? No surprise, there is no clear answer. The time it takes to write your dissertation can vary significantly – some PhD students need several years, others are rather fast.

If you use your time wisely you may shorten the dissertation process significantly , you may already write (and publish!) with your supervisor one or two comprehensive reviews about your subject. These reviews are a great starting point for your dissertation. It is a better idea to start early to learn  to write your research papers faster .

What Influences How Long It Takes to Complete a PhD and get a doctorate degree?

To answer the question, “how long is a doctorate degree?”, several key factors that can affect the time to completion must be considered. These include the doctoral student’s pace, the complexity of their research project, their advisor’s availability, and funding.

For instance, many PhD students need to fulfill teaching or research assistantships to receive financial support. These commitments can extend the time it takes to earn a PhD. The specific requirements of your doctoral program also matter, with some demanding more coursework or extensive research than others.

Do All Doctoral Students Take the Same Time to Complete?

No, each doctoral student’s time to complete a doctoral program varies . Some might earn their terminal degree more quickly if they already have a master’s degree in a related field, thus reducing the coursework required to complete. Others might take longer if they are enrolled part-time while working a full-time job.

Does Earning a Doctorate Always Take So Long?

Although most doctoral programs take around four to seven years, completing a doctorate doesn’t always take so long. Some professional doctorate programs, designed to be more oriented towards career and professional practice, often require less time than research-oriented PhDs.  Moreover, doctoral studies in some European countries typically take only three to four years.

Why Does it Take so Long to Complete a Dissertation?

How long is a phd program? It depends on the coursework and on the time to finish your thesis (=dissertation). The dissertation phase can extend for multiple years because it involves a great deal of independent research and writing. Doctoral students must conduct original research and articulate their findings and analysis in a comprehensive document that contributes new knowledge to their field. This rigorous process takes considerable time, dedication, and intellectual effort.

Can You Complete a Doctorate Faster?

Yes, there are ways to earn your doctorate faster. Some universities offer accelerated programs, particularly online. These require the same high level of work but condense the timeline. One of the best ways to complete a program more quickly is by choosing a dissertation topic you already know by heart. It substantially reduces the time it takes to complete your research and writing.

Are Online Schools and Accelerated Ph.D. Programs an Option?

For those who are working full-time, online schools could offer a viable path toward a PhD. These online programs allow a more flexible schedule; some may even provide accelerated ways to earn an academic degree. However, it’s important to remember that quality and reputation of online courses vary widely.

What Factors Affect the Time to Complete a Doctorate?

How long does a PhD take? Difficult to say. The length of a PhD program can be influenced by many factors. These include the field of study, program structure, student’s personal circumstances, and level of preparation. Personal factors such as motivation, work ethic, and time management skills also play a crucial role in the time to completion.

What is the Role of Faculty Members and Advisors?

Your relationship with your dissertation advisor and other faculty members can significantly influence the length of time to complete your PhD. A supportive and accessible advisor can help streamline the data analysis process, guide you through the literature review, and provide useful feedback on your final project. Getting regular feedback is one of  the most important ways to write faster  and finish your papers and thesis quicker.

Balancing Professional and Doctorate Commitments

Balancing professional commitments with a doctorate degree can be challenging. Many PhD students are working professionals striving to upgrade their qualifications. Consequently, they often take much longer to complete their PhD, making it essential to balance professional duties and academic requirements.

Should You Do a Full-Time or Part-Time Ph.D.?

Pursuing an academic career can be  a challenging journey . Aspiring academics often need to decide between full-time and part-time Ph.D. programs. Full-time studies usually involve years of hard work, typically 3-4 years, but provide a focused environment. Conversely, part-time Ph.D. studies take much longer but allow more flexibility, catering to those with a professional career or family responsibilities.

Can You Pursue a Career in Academia and Become a Professor?

A successfully completed PhD is usually a necessary prerequisite for an academic career. There are  multiple requirements to qualify for academic positions.  After a PhD, a postdoctoral research period is typically required to prepare for the next step of your scientific career.  Choosing the best postdoc position  is essential. 

After the  postdoc period that lasts between 2 and 6 years , you may enter a tenure track program and/or become an  assistant or associate professor , depending on your qualifications and career goals. The  success rate  for becoming university professors is about 3% for all PhD students. However, there are many career options outside academia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the shortest time to complete a phd.

A: While it varies by field and institution, some accelerated programs can be completed in three years or less, particularly if you already have a master’s degree in a related field.

Q: What part of a PhD takes the longest time?

A: In life sciences and similar fields, the experiments take most of the time, while in humanities, the writing of the thesis (= dissertation) is usually the most time-consuming phase.

Q: Is it possible to work full-time while pursuing a PhD?

A: Yes, but it is challenging and may extend the length of the program. How long does it take to get a phd while working full-time? Some PhD students opt for part-time phd studies to better balance their professional and academic commitments but it probably adds 1-2 years to finish.

Q: Do online PhD programs take less time?

A: Online doctorate programs offer more flexibility, which might allow some students to complete their studies faster. However, they require the same level of academic rigor and commitment as traditional programs.

Other perspectives

• https://academicpositions.com/career-advice/phd-in-europe-or-the-us
• https://www.findaphd.com/guides/length-of-a-phd
• https://www.franklin.edu/blog/what-is-a-doctorate-degree

Acknowledgments

I have used AI systems, including Grammarly and ChatGPT, to enhance the English and comprehensiveness of this article. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to purchase through my link. Thus, you support smartsciencecareer at no cost to you!

Recommended reading

The following articles may also interest you:

• Free PhD programs versus fully funded PhD programs
• For how long should I be a postdoc?
• Should I quit my postdoc?
• How To Write Faster: 19 Efficient Ways To Finish My Publication
• Does medical school ranking matter?
• Assistant professor and associate professor – what is the difference?
• Should I Become A Professor? Success Rate 3 %!
• Do I really have to go to a famous university for a successful career in science?
• How to choose the best postdoc position?
• How to become a professor?
• What is tenure?
• Why salary matters in science careers
• How to ask for a letter of recommendation?

Sven Hendrix is a Professor of Neuroanatomy at Medical School Hamburg (MSH) in Germany. He leads a research group dedicated to the neuroimmunology of brain repair and the development of xenofree organoid models as alternatives to animal experiments. Additionally, he serves as the speaker for CENE, a center focused on academic career development across MSH, Medical School Berlin (MSB), and the Health and Medical University (HMU) in Potsdam and Erfurt, Germany.

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

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

(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.

[ READ: What Is a Doctorate or a Doctoral Degree?  ]

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.”

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.

[ READ: Ph.D. Programs Get a Lot More Practical.  ]

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.

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.

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.

[ READ: 4 Fields Where Doctorates Lead to Jobs.  ]

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.

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.

The Savvy Scientist

Experiences of a London PhD student and beyond

How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD?

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “How long does it take to get a PhD” you’re not alone. Before I started mine I thought I’d be working right up until the university’s four year deadline to submission. However it is often possible to submit a PhD faster, though you do have to consider the time for your viva and corrections.

In this post we’ll go through each of the different stages of a PhD. We’ll also look at how much time a PhD takes up in the wider context of your career as a whole.

At the end you can find a timeline showing how long I personally took to go through each stage on the journey to getting my own PhD!

How long does it take to get a PhD when studying full time?

In short, full-time PhD students in the UK will typically take 3-4 years to submit their PhD thesis. Then it’s a few more months before the viva (oral exam) takes place. PhDs in many other European countries and certain commonwealth countries such as Australia, take a similar length of time. For other countries such as the US it will typically be a year or two longer than this, which could be a positive or negative depending on why you’re doing a PhD !

If you’re considering applying for a PhD, here are some relevant posts for you which may be useful:

• How to apply for a PhD
• PhD FAQs – A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Doctoral Study
• How much work is a PhD?

Putting a PhD in career context

Still on the fence as to whether you really want to spend roughly four years of your life on a PhD?

Let’s put it in perspective.

If you come out of uni at age 22 and retire at age 68, you’ll have a career of approximately 46 years:

Let’s say after a few years of working you decide to do a PhD. We’ll assume in total it takes 4.5 years – about the maximum length of time a full-time PhD can be from start to end in the UK.

Now let’s slot in that PhD in orange:

This shows the average PhD-holder still has about a 40 year career ahead of them if they were to work until state pension age in the UK! So doing a PhD lowers your career by 4-4.5 years, or as a percentage: less than 10%!

In reality, retirement age is very likely to be pushed well into the 70s by that time, making the time spent on a PhD even less of an issue. Sidenote: while you’re young take the opportunity to build up financial freedom !

Is a PhD worth it? I’ve delved into this more here , but it will depend a bit on your own circumstances so I can’t definitively answer that for you. But it’s important to recognise that doing a PhD isn’t taking much time away from your career and could potentially add a lot to it!

Read on for details on why a PhD takes around four years to complete.

The structure of a PhD

There are four parts to getting a PhD:

• The main one: working on your project and doing the research!
• Writing up your work and submitting it as a thesis (or papers if your university allows it)
• The oral examination (viva)
• Making any corrections to the thesis requested by the examiners and submitting the final version to the university

Let’s quickly cover each one of these parts in a little more detail:

1. PhD project: Carrying out research

This section is the core of your PhD and the bit where you actually do some research. Some people may divide the PhD project into sections such as:

• Reading literature
• Deciding on a research project direction
• Trying out different experimental methods
• Main experiments & data collection

Every project (and person) is so different that it would be useless to give you a generic timeline with how long each section could take. Points 2 and 3 may even appear in different orders depending on your project. There is no convention! In addition, rarely will someone carry these tasks out in series with no overlap between them. Working on tasks in parallel helps to keep your days more varied and interesting too.

If you’ve already got a very well defined project you may whiz through the first three points. The same goes for if you’re taking over from a previous student who has already got your project going. For my project I was pretty much starting from scratch in a lot of regards. I also had a scholarship with a lot of freedom, so spent more time on these preliminary stages. It really varies a lot, so let’s just cover how long the research typically lasts in total:

PhD research duration

Two main factors will typically dictate how long is spent on research before writing up:

• Funding : The majority of PhD students in STEM are funded (post on how here , and how much here ) and no one wants to be supporting themselves once the money runs out. Therefore usually PhD students will aim to complete all research (and ideally writing up) by the time their funding ceases. Most PhD projects in the UK are funded for 3 – 3.5 years . The maximum is four years, for reasons you’ll see in a moment. Personally my scholarship was for 3 years and then I was separately employed for another five months by my supervisor.
• Submission deadline : You can imagine that the completion rate of PhDs isn’t great once funding ceases. You’re seeking employment to support yourself and suddenly the PhD isn’t a focus. More and more universities are now imposing strict deadlines for submission to boost the chances of students successfully completing the degree. This deadline to submit your thesis is often four years from your start date .

A student will typically work back from these deadlines, estimating how long is required for writing up and spend all of the remaining time doing research.

Approximate research duration: Overall, from induction through to finishing data analysis will typically take 2.5 – 3.5 years.

2. Writing up

As we covered above, there are two main factors which will usually control how much time is available for the project as a whole. It is up to the student to decide how late they leave it to finish conducting research and start writing up.

For some people writing up can take a significant number of months. This may be particularly true for non-native speakers.

My somewhat controversial suggestion is to leave it as late as possible to go into the full-time writing-up stage. This allows you to maximise the amount of time you’re able to access labs or any specialist resources which will disappear once you leave. It’s also very easy to procrastinate whilst writing, therefore by constraining the timeline you’re less likely to waste your time.

However not officially being in the ‘writing-up’ stage, doesn’t mean doing no writing at all in advance. In fact let’s answer a few common questions related to writing up:

Can you write up as you go along?

Yes! You can of course write whenever you fancy it, but additionally typically there will be a few assessment checkpoints during the research phase of your project. For the first of them, which occurs around 9 months after starting the project, you’ll usually have to produce a report. This often includes the rationale for the project, a literature review and your progress so far. At Imperial it was called the Early Stage Assessment (ESA) and others know it as the upgrade interview.

Even if you do no other writing up during your project, this report can still form a useful starting point for your thesis. My report was just under 20 pages long and the literature review component formed the foundations for the literature review in my PhD thesis.

There is often a second checkmark at 18-24 months (called the “Late stage assessment” or “LSR” at Imperial). This may again may include a formal report which could go some way towards your thesis. The alternative to writing a report for the LSR is showing a paper you’ve submitted to a journal: a handy reason to write papers, which we’ll come onto more in a second.

You can take it further and write up chapters of your work as you go if you want. The most obvious reason for doing so it to produce papers of each results chapter which we’ll now discuss.

What about papers?

I strongly recommend PhD students submit papers during their PhD. I only had one published by the time of my viva and that single paper was immensely valuable in providing evidence that I’d done novel research of a high enough standard. See my guide to writing your first paper here:

• Writing an academic journal paper

If nothing else, writing up your work as papers serves as a useful way to split your PhD work into sections which can then become chapters of a thesis.

Some universities may allow you to submit a string of papers instead of a thesis. I know that this is common in other parts of Europe.

By the time I submitted my thesis I had one results chapter accepted as a paper, another two papers roughly drafted and another chapter I hadn’t really worked on. At Imperial you do have to submit a thesis, but crucially the content can include submissions for papers. I had to do a bit of work converting papers into chapters but it was minimal, maybe a few days work.

Your mileage may vary: I know that some other universities don’t allow you to copy text (or figures) word for word from papers due to plagiarism, which of course suddenly creates a lot of extra work. Either way, writing up your research as papers during a PhD is strongly encouraged if you can!

Should you care about having a ‘nice looking’ thesis?

This is a question only you can answer. If you want a thesis formatted wonderfully in LaTex with stunning figures etc you’ll of course have to dedicate additional time to writing the thesis.

For me I didn’t (and don’t) care at all about having a nice looking thesis. I’d much rather invest energy in writing things people will actually read: papers.

Do remember that what you submit to the examiners is merely a draft and isn’t your last chance to make changes!

Approximate duration for writing up: Typically 2 – 6 months, but it doesn’t have to take this long!

3. Scheduling and passing the oral examination (viva)

When you’re coming to the end of your PhD you’ll discuss potential examiners with your supervisor and begin organising potential dates for your exam: known as a viva here in the UK. In the UK you’ll usually have a minimum of one external examiner (from another university) and one internal examiner (from your university).

The date will usually be a minimum of two months after you submit your thesis. You can potentially get away with a bit shorter, but universities don’t like doing it in case of any holdups. It’ll ultimately come down to finding a suitable time which works for your examiners.

I know of people who’ve had to wait a lot longer than a few months because of difficulties finding a time which works for all the examiners, especially if substantial travel is required. One of the perks of the current C-19 working from home arrangement is that examinations may be more easily scheduled.

The oral exam itself is only one day. I’m putting together a separate post to cover what the viva experience is like.

Approximate duration for scheduling and passing the exam: Typically three months.

4. Making any corrections to the thesis

The examination will in part focus on the quality of your written thesis. Some people pass the viva with no corrections. Therefore you could simply use the copy you sent to the examiners as your final copy of the thesis, requiring no further work.

However it is rare to pass with no corrections and instead it is likely that there will be “minor corrections” suggested to improve the thesis. These corrections may be to:

• Improve clarity
• Add some further necessary detail, including potential additional analysis
• Removing unsubstantiated claims
• Correcting typos and grammatical errors

It is also possible for “major corrections” to be requested, requiring much more substantial work – usually including further experiments.

In the case of minor corrections, sometimes the examiners will want to see the updated thesis, other times they’re happy to let your supervisor approve the changes.

Typically in the UK you are given a deadline to submit these corrections within three months of your viva . Of course it usually doesn’t actually take anywhere near three months of solid work to make the changes, but the examiners and university recognise that by then you’ll have ceased being a PhD student and likely have other commitments. Plus, not everyone wants to dive straight back in after the viva!

Approximate duration for making changes to your thesis: 0 – 3 months.

5. Awaiting confirmation of your PhD

Once you’ve submitted your final copy of the thesis you’ll have to wait for the registry team to formally confirm your PhD. At Imperial this is done once per month. And you’ll get an email something like this:

Duration: one month or less.

So how long does it take to get a PhD in total?

Now we’ve covered all the separate stages of a PhD, hopefully you have a better sense of how long it could take to get a PhD.

Wondering how long is a PhD in the UK? In the UK the average time from starting the PhD to submitting the thesis is approximately three and a half years. It’ll then take another 4-6 months until the viva has been completed, the final thesis copy submitted and for the university to award the PhD. This brings us to a total length of approximately 4 to 4.5 years for a PhD in the UK .

This assumes that study towards the PhD is full-time. Of course if you’re working part-time on the project the duration can increase considerably.

If the PhD is as part of a CDT/DTC programme the timeline may be slightly different, but won’t necessary be much longer. In a CDT you’ll usually spend a year studying for an MSc, followed by three years working towards the PhD, at which point you’ll submit the thesis. Therefore the total time for a PhD as part of a CDT with a MSc+PhD programme may still be just over four years, including the MSc.

My experience

I finished my PhD earlier this year and this is how long each of the PhD stages took me:

* I wanted to arrange a holiday for April ( which didn’t happen ) so knew when I wanted to have the viva and worked back from there. I could have submitted the thesis 7.5 months later and still have been within the four year deadline, but wasn’t interested in stringing it out! We arranged the viva back in January and submitting the thesis six weeks before the viva was about the minimum reasonable period. You may be required to submit the thesis before officially scheduling the viva.

** I’m a fast writer and didn’t massively care about the quality of the thesis but even so, couldn’t write a whole thesis in three weeks! Crucially I had most of the results chapters already written by this point. I spent about a week writing the literature review section, a week on the introduction and discussion chapters and a week putting it together. Once you have your results sections don’t spend ages faffing with the other sections (intro, lit review, discussion), they’ll swallow up as much time as you give them.

*** Had I been able to go away on my two month holiday I’d have left the thesis corrections for when I got back. But since I wasn’t able to go, I decided to crack on with them right away. Most people would tend to have more of a break before submitting the corrected version, but I knew that if I submitted quickly then I’d be in time for the PhD to be confirmed in April – just a few days later. There is also something funny about having a PhD confirmed on April Fools’ Day!

How long does it take to get a PhD outside of the UK?

PhD programmes vary in structure and length around the world. PhDs in mainland Europe and Australia are typically of similar length to the UK. Though if you’re looking to study for a PhD in the US you can often expect to be studying for an extra year or two.

In the US PhDs typically begin with formal courses and lab rotations , with PhD projects not being decided until midway through your second year. This is a similar parallel to undergraduate degrees being less specialised than in Europe. Therefore in the US PhDs typically take 4-6 years to complete.

More details for PhDs around the globe can be found on this handy set of pages FindAPhD has put together.

Hopefully you’re now able to answer how long it takes to get a PhD. If you have any other PhD-related questions you’d like answered please let me know and I’ll be happy to address them !

Footnotes for the lifetime graphic: * UK life expectancy for a current 20 year old is estimated to be around 87 years. * The figure was inspired by some of the amazing posts on Wait but Why . If you’ve not already checked out the website, please do!

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How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD (Doctorate)?

Find your perfect postgrad program search our database of 30,000 courses.

• by Charlotte King
• In General , PHD

As with many things in life, how long it takes you to get a PhD depends mostly on you. Because doctorate degrees are flexible, the duration of study can vary. But if you work hard and are disciplined, how long will it take you to get a PhD

How long is a full-time PhD?

In most cases, PhD research involves full-time study. You should expect to dedicate around 35 hours per week to your work. However, in busy periods, such as writing up your thesis , you may need to work for considerably longer. 

In the UK,  it usually takes three to four years of full-time study to gain a PhD. Time is spent carrying out research and collecting data towards a thesis. Your thesis can take a year to write and will offer an original contribution to your subject.Once you have completed your thesis you will usually have to undertake a PhD viva to present, explain and defend your research.

Most students begin a PhD after completing a relevant masters course. A masters degree will usually take around one year to complete if you are studying full time, or two to five years if you are studying part time. So from undergraduate to doctorate, you should expect it to take at least four years full time.

In Europe, the time it takes to gain a PhD can vary depending on the country and the subject of study. For example, in Germany, a PhD in a scientific subject might take two to three years full time, and a doctorate in the arts or humanities may take four to six years full time. In Norway, all PhDs usually take three years on a full-time basis. Most countries are similar to the UK, where you complete your PhD once you have done a relevant masters course.

In Norway , all PhDs usually take three years on a full-time basis – here is a great explanation from the  University of Oslo . It can take up to six years to complete a PhD on a part-time basis, but this way of studying is unusual. 

The USA has a different university set up to the UK and Europe as most doctorate degrees are gained by going to Graduate School straight after you have completed your undergraduate degree. This means that the time it takes to gain your masters-level qualification is built into the time it takes to get your PhD. It is common for it to take four to five years to gain a Doctorate from the time you start Graduate School, but it can take up to eight years of full-time study. It depends on the institution and the type of PhD you choose.  

Some institutions, like Franklin University, allow students to transfer credits and count professional work experience towards their doctorate degrees, so you could complete a PhD in as little as three years.

How long is a part-time PhD?

Studying for a PhD part time is a good way to accommodate other work or life commitments alongside your research. Typically, it takes twice as long as a full-time PhD and you will study for around 20 hours a week.

Not many PhD students undertake their doctorate on a part-time basis, but those who do will have between five and seven years to complete their PhD. 

Part-time PhDs are unusual in Europe. In Germany, you could expect a PhD to take four to eight years. France is similar to Germany, and it takes around three to four years for a full-time doctorate in the sciences, and four to five years for a doctorate degree in the arts and humanities. At the University of Oslo, it can take up to six years to complete a PhD on a part-time basis. 

Part-time and online PhDs are more common in the USA and these take anywhere from five to 10 years to complete.

How long is a distance learning PhD?

There are some doctorate degrees which are studied by distance learning. These online PhDs allow students to study at a location and time that suits their schedule. These tend to be part time only and usually take up to seven years to complete. 

Entry requirements for a PhD

In the UK the vast majority of PhD candidates will begin a PhD after completing a relevant masters course . A masters degree will usually take around one year to complete if you are studying full time, or two to five years if you are studying part time. Once you've gained this qualification you can move onto the doctorate after you have excelled at your PhD interview.

Different countries in Europe have different traditions and regulations surrounding doctorate degrees. Most countries are similar to the UK, where you complete your PhD once you have done a relevant masters course. 

Why does it take so long to complete a PhD? 

Due to the complexity of the study and the amount of original research required, PhDs typically take longer to complete than other undergraduate degrees. It can take a long time to create a thesis, since you must make an original and noteworthy contribution to your field.

What is the deadline for finishing a PhD?

The deadline for submitting your PhD will be set by your university. In the UK, the deadline is defined by the last date on which you can submit your thesis. For most PhDs, the deadline is four years for full-time students and seven years for part-time students. It may be possible to extend the deadline up to four years, but this is at the discretion of the university. 

Does funding impact the length of a PhD? 

Generally, PhD funding providers will cover you for a set amount of time during the course of your PhD. Most students will aim to finish their PhD within the timeframe set by their funding provider to avoid incurring additional fees. 

Self-funded students cover their own tuition fees and other related costs, therefore many self-funded students aim to complete their PhDs in the shortest time possible. 

Read more about postgraduate tuition fees on our fees and funding information page .  

Find your ideal PhD

Search for your ideal PhD or browse our collection of helpful PhD articles on Postgrad. 

Editor’s note: this blog post was originally published in April 2018, it now contains some updated information.

amber is one of many potential private accommodation options for international postgraduate students. Other private student accommodation options are available and Postgrad.com advises you to research all your options thoroughly before making such a commitment. Postgrad Solutions accepts no responsibility for your choice of student accommodation and does not endorse or support amber.

Related articles

Dos & Don'ts Of A PhD Interview

How To Get A PhD

How To Find A PhD

How Much Does It Really Cost To Study A PhD In The UK?

Are You Ready For A PhD?

Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries

Elisha June 25, 2019, 9:49 p.m.

I’m Wanting to be a child therapist so what degree would I need for this and how long would I be at uni for Thankyou

Charlotte King June 28, 2019, 1:59 p.m.

Hi Elisha, A bachelors degree in counselling, social work, or child psychology is often a good start for a child counselling career, and most child counsellors are usually required to earn graduate degrees as well. So that would be a minimum of 4 years study.

Amoo Monsuru Olukayode Nov. 24, 2021, 2:44 a.m.

I want to study abroad in any UK country

Charlotte King Dec. 6, 2021, 9:37 p.m.

We have a comprehensive section on postgraduate study in the UK to help you make your decision > https://www.postgrad.com/study-in-uk/ I hope it helps.

Juli Hanes March 9, 2023, 4:42 p.m.

You always provide great examples and real-world applications, thank you for your valuable contributions.

Charlotte King March 13, 2023, 5:08 p.m.

Thanks Juli!

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How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Psychology?

Ariel Skelley/Getty Images 

• How Long Will It Take?

Before You Earn PhD in Psychology

Which type of degree should you get, can you finish your degree early.

Just how long does it take to get a PhD in psychology? The answer can vary depending on your program, educational background, and academic schedule. In general, most PhD psychology programs take anywhere from five to seven years to complete.

Learning more about what it takes to get a doctorate in psychology can help you better plan your educational and career journey.

At a Glance

Getting a PhD in psychology can take several years of graduate study. If you are thinking about becoming a psychologist, research your degree options to figure out what type of degree you need and how long it will take to enter your chosen profession. No matter what you decide, plan to spend anywhere from three to seven years in graduate school to earn a doctorate.

How Long Will It Take to Get a Doctorate Degree?

How long it takes to get a doctorate in psychology depends on various factors, including the type of degree you have selected, your educational background, and the individual doctorate program in which you have enrolled.

Most doctorate programs in psychology take between four to seven years to complete.

PhD in Psychology

Most PhD programs require at least five to seven years to complete. These programs often follow a scientist-practitioner model that trains professionals both in research and clinical practice.

In addition to regular coursework, you may also be expected to complete an internship or supervised residency. The program usually culminates in completing an original research project or dissertation.

PsyD Degree

Most PsyD programs require between four to six years to complete. A PsyD is a degree designed to train professionals to apply psychological knowledge to treating and helping people in real-world settings.

According to the American Psychological Association, PsyD programs focus more on applying psychological science, usually in the form of service.  

Most EdD programs require between three to five years to complete. EdD programs are often focused on psychology, counseling, or counselor education. They explore topics that involve both education and psychology.

It is important to note that many applicants to EdD programs already hold a master's degree in a related field. This differs from applicants to PhD and PsyD programs, who often begin their program of study with a bachelor's degree.

Before you begin your academic journey, it is a good idea to look at just how long it will take you to complete your degree. The amount of time it will take can depend upon various factors, including:

• Your chosen specialty area
• The program you select
• The course load you can take each semester

A doctorate-level degree in psychology is required to work in many job areas, including as a licensed clinical psychologist or counseling psychologist. According to the American Psychological Association, a doctorate degree is also often required in fields such as school psychology or health psychology .

So how long does it take to get a PhD in Psychology ? First, it is essential to realize that the degree requirements can vary depending on the field that you decide to pursue. A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy degree is not necessarily your only option. In some cases, you might want also to consider the PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) or the EdD (Doctor of Education) degree options.

The PhD, PsyD, and EdD are all great options, but don't let how long it takes to complete be the primary deciding factor. Before you decide to get a doctorate degree, start by deciding which type of degree is most suited to your professional goals.

If you want to conduct research:

A PhD in Psychology tends to focus on a research-based model of education. People with a PhD in Psychology are qualified for a wide range of teaching, research, and clinical positions in colleges, universities, hospitals, government offices, and private mental health practices.

If you want to treat mental health issues:

The PsyD degree option generally focuses on a practitioner-based model of education. Individuals with a PsyD degree can also teach or conduct psychology research, but they frequently work in applied settings to provide direct mental health services.

If you want to apply psychology to help students:

Finally, there is also a third doctorate option that you might also want to consider depending on your career goals. If you are interested in working as a school psychologist or in a related educational field, the EdD, or Doctor of Education, is a possible option.

Despite the years of work, earning your PhD, PsyD, or EdD can be well worth the effort. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that workers with a doctoral or education specialist degree in clinical, counseling, and school psychology will find the strongest job opportunities.

Generally, if you have a strong background in psychology and have completed all of the necessary prerequisites, you can finish your doctorate sooner than students who have not taken the prerequisite courses.

Carefully planning your degree can also help ensure you complete the program requirements quickly.

Be sure you have a clear idea of what you want to do with your psychology degree once you've completed it. Do you want to teach, or is research more appealing to you? Are you interested in seeing clients, or are you planning to combine your training in psychology with another field, such as law or medicine?

If you need help deciding, make an important with an academic advisor at your school. They can help you explore your options and answer any questions you may have.

What This Means For You

No matter the degree you decide to pursue, earning a doctorate in psychology requires a significant investment of time, money, and effort. Because of this, it is essential to carefully consider your goals before deciding on a graduate program. You should also think about whether you need a doctorate or if a master's might be more appropriate.

Gee DG, DeYoung KA, McLaughlin KA, et al. Training the next generation of clinical psychological scientists: A data-driven call to action .  Annu Rev Clin Psychol . 2022;18:43-70. doi:10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-081219-092500

Loyola University. Can I get my Psy.D. without a Master's in Psychology?

American Psychological Association. Doctoral degrees in psychology: How are they different, or not so different ?

Franklin University. Is getting a Doctorate in Education worth it?

American Psychological Association. Frequently asked questions about graduate school .

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Psychologists . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Carr, A. Clinical Psychology: An Introduction . London: Routledge; 2012.

Kuther, TL. The Psychology Major's Handbook . Boston, MA: Cengage Learning; 2016.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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How the PhD Program Works

Program Overview

Completing your doctorate at Wharton requires 5 years of full-time study. The first 2 years in the program prepare you for admission to candidacy by taking courses, qualifying exams, and starting research projects. In the last few years, you are primarily conducting research full-time including writing and defending your doctoral dissertation.

Admission to candidacy.

You begin by taking courses required for your program of study. All programs requires a preliminary exam, which may be either oral or written.

Some programs may have further requirements, such as an additional exam or research paper. If you enter with a master’s degree or other transfer credit, you may satisfy the formal course requirements more quickly.

Beginning the Wharton PhD Curriculum How the first two years of the Wharton program helped students discover their interests, learn the tools of the profession, and fuel their passion for teaching.

The Doctoral Dissertation

Upon successful completion of coursework and passing a preliminary examination, you are admitted to candidacy for the dissertation phase of your studies.

Your doctoral dissertation should contain original research that meets standards for published scholarship in your field. You are expected to be an expert in the topic you choose to research.

You are admitted to candidacy for the dissertation phase of your studies upon successful completion of coursework and passing a preliminary examination, but you can start thinking about and working on research of relevance at any time.

The dissertation process culminates with a “defense,” in which you defend the proposal orally before your dissertation committee.

While working on your dissertation, you interact extensively with Wharton faculty. Together with interested faculty, you create your own research community that includes your dissertation advisor and dissertation committee.

Policies and Procedures

Get more detailed explanation of course requirements, academic standards, the Teacher Development Program, time limits, and dissertation procedures and requirements.

Sample Program Sequence

Years 1 & 2.

Coursework Examination Research Papers Research Activities Field-Specific Requirements

Directed Reading & Research Admission to Candidacy Formulation of Research Topic

Years 4 & 5

Continued Research Oral Examination Dissertation

Hear From Our Doctoral Community

Wharton’s phd program prepared this doctor to perform economic evaluations in health care, why i chose academic research instead of consulting.

Andrea Contigiani

What Brought This CDC Researcher to Wharton's PhD Program

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10 things you need to know before starting a PhD degree

So you want to do a PhD degree, huh? Here we've got everything you need to know about getting started.

So you want to do a PhD degree, huh? Are you sure about that? It’s not going to be an easy decision, so I’ve put together a list of 10 things you need to know before starting a PhD degree. Oh, and don’t panic!

I have recently graduated from the University of Manchester with a PhD in Plant Sciences after four difficult, but enjoyable, years. During those four years, I often felt slightly lost – and there was more than one occasion on which I didn’t even want to imagine writing up my thesis in fear of delving into fits of panic.

On reflection, I realise that – to quote a colleague – commencing my PhD was like “jumping in the deep end with your eyes closed.” If only I’d known to take a deep breath.

1. Are you sure you want to do a PhD degree?

Let’s be under no false impressions, completing a PhD isn’t easy. There will be times when you feel like Wile E Coyote chasing after the Roadrunner – a little bit out of your depth a lot of the time. It’s four years of your life, so make sure it is what you really want to do.

If you want to pursue a career in science, a PhD isn’t always necessary.

It is possible to make great inroads into industry without a doctoral degree. That said, a PhD can also be a very useful qualification with many transferable skills to add to your CV.

By the time you’ll have finished, you can include essentials such as time management, organisational skills, prioritising workloads, attention to detail, writing skills, presenting to an audience – and most importantly – resilience, to name but a few.

2. Choose your project, and supervisor, wisely.

This is  very  important.

Time after time, our experienced scientists at EI, including Erik Van-Den-Bergh (and I agree) say, “ make sure you’re extremely passionate about exactly that subject. ” When I saw the PhD opening that I eventually was offered, I remember being demonstrably ecstatic about the project before I’d even started it.

I was always interested in calcium signalling and organised a meeting with my potential supervisor immediately, which (to quote Billy Connolly) I leapt into in a mood of gay abandon.

Not only does this help you to keep engaged with your project even through the painstakingly slow times, it also greatly enhances your ability to sell yourself in an interview. If you can show passion and enthusiasm about the project and the science then you’ll be that one step ahead of other candidates – which is all the more important now that many studentships are competitive.

You have to  be the best  out of many, often exceptional candidates.

However, as important as it is to be passionate about your project, make sure that the person who will be supervising you is worthy.

Does your potential supervisor have a prolific track record of publishing work? What is the community of scientists like in the lab you may be working in? Are there experienced post-doctoral scientists working in the lab? Who will your advisor be? Is your supervisor an expert in the field you are interested in? Is the work you will be doing ground-breaking and novel, or is it quite niche?

There is nothing more frustrating – and I know many PhD degree students with this problem – than having a supervisor who is rarely there to talk to, shows little interest in your work, and cannot help when you are struggling in the third year of your project and some guidance would be much appreciated.

Personally, and I was very lucky to have this, I think it’s incredibly useful to have two supervisors. My PhD degree was split between the University of Manchester and the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth. Between my supervisors, I had two people with expertise in different fields, who could give me some fantastic advice from different perspectives. This also meant that I had two people to check through my thesis chapters and provide useful comments on my drafts.

Make sure you are passionate about your subject before taking it to PhD level. And by passionate I mean  really  passionate.

For a start, you will most likely have to write a literature review in your first three months, which if done well will form the main bulk of your thesis introduction and will save you a lot of stress and strain when it comes to writing up.

At the end of your first year, you will have to write a continuation report, which is your proof that you deserve to carry on to the end of your three or four years. This doesn’t leave much time for lab work, which means time management is incredibly important. If you think you’ll be able to swan in at 11 and leave at 3, think again.

Fundamentally, never, ever rest on your laurels! As tempting as it may be to slack-off slightly in the second year of your four year PhD, don’t.

4. Be organised.

This is a no-brainer but still, it’s worth a mention. Take an hour on a Monday morning to come up with a list of short-term and long-term goals. You’ll probably have to present your work at regular lab meetings, so it’s always worth knowing what has to be done (lest you look a pillock in front of the lab when there’s nothing to show for your last two weeks.)

It’s always good to have a timeline of what will be done when. If you have a PCR, maybe you can squeeze in another experiment, read a few papers, start writing the introduction to your thesis, or even start collecting the data you already have into figures.

The more good use you make of your time, the easier it’ll be to finish your PhD in the long run. Plus, it’s lovely to sit back and look at actual graphs, rather than worry about having enough to put into a paper. Once you’ve typed up your data, you’ll realise you’ve done far more than you had anticipated and the next step forward will be entirely more apparent.

5. Embrace change – don’t get bogged down in the details.

Felix Shaw – one of our bioinformatics researchers at EI – put it best when he said, “ it felt like I was running into brick walls all the way through [my PhD]… you’d run into a brick wall, surmount it, only to run straight into another. ”

You’ll find that, often, experiments don’t work. What might seem like a great idea could turn out to be as bad as choosing to bat first on a fresh wicket on the first day of the third Ashes test at Edgbaston. (Yeah, we don't know what that means either - Ed).

Resilience is key while completing your PhD. Be open to change and embrace the chance to experiment in different ways. You might even end up with a thesis chapter including all of your failures, which at the very least is something interesting to discuss during your  viva voce .

6. Learn how to build, and use, your network.

As a PhD student, you are a complete novice in the world of science and most things in the lab will be – if not new to you – not exquisitely familiar. This matters not, if you take advantage of the people around you.

Firstly, there are lab technicians and research assistants, who have probably been using the technique you are learning for years and years. They are incredibly experienced at a number of techniques and are often very happy to help show you how things are done.

There are postdocs and other PhD students, too. Not only can they help you with day-to-day experiments, they can offer a unique perspective on how something is done and will probably have a handy back-catalogue of fancy new techniques to try.

There are also a bunch of PIs, not limited to your own, who are great to talk to. These people run labs of their own, have different ideas, and might even give you a job once you’ve completed your PhD.

Don’t limit yourself to the labs directly around you, however. There are a massive number of science conferences going on all around the world. Some of them, such as the Society of Biology Conference, take place every year at a similar time in different locations, attracting many of the leaders in their respective fields.

If you are terrified by the prospect of speaking at a full-blown science conference and having your work questioned by genuine skeptics, there are also many student-led conferences which will help you dangle your fresh toes in the murky waters of presenting your work.

One such conference, the Second Student Bioinformatics Symposium, which took place at Earlham Institute in October 2016, was a great place for candidates to share their projects with peers, who are often much more friendly than veteran researchers with 30 year careers to their name when it comes to the questions at the end of your talk.

Another great reason to attend conferences, of course, is the social-side too – make the most of this. You never know who you might meet and connect with over a few drinks once the talks are over and the party commences.

7. Keep your options open.

You should be aware that for every 200 PhD students,  only 7  will get a permanent academic post , so it’s  incredibly unlikely that you’ll become a Professor  – and even if you make PI, it probably won’t be until your mid-forties.

You may also, despite having commenced along the academic path, decide that actually, working in a lab environment isn’t for you. Most PhD graduates, eventually, will not pursue an academic career, but move on to a wide range of other vocations.

It might be that Science Communication is more up your street. This was certainly the case for me – and I made sure that I took part in as many public engagement events as possible while completing my PhD. Most Universities have an active public engagement profile, while organisations such as STEM can provide you with ample opportunities to interact with schools and the general public.

You might also consider entrepreneurship as a route away from academia, which might still allow you to use your expert scientific knowledge. There are a variety of competitions and workshops available to those with a business mind, a strong example being Biotechnology YES.

I, for example, took part in the Thought for Food Challenge, through which I have been able to attend events around the world and meet a vast array of like-minded individuals. Many of the participants from the challenge have gone on to set up successful businesses and have even found jobs as a result of the competition.

8. Balance.

Remember that you still have a life outside of your PhD degree – and that this can be one of the greatest opportunities to make amazing friends from around the world.

A science institute is usually home to the brightest students from a variety of countries and can provide a chance to experience a delightful range of different people and cultures. Don’t just stick to the people in your lab, go to events for postgraduate students and meet people from all over campus.

There are usually academic happy hours happening on Fridays after work where you can buy cheap beer, or some lucky institutions even have their own bar. At Norwich Research Park, we not only have the Rec Centre, along with bar, swimming pool, calcetto, samba classes, archery, and a range of other activities, but there are also biweekly “Postdoc pub clubs” which are very fun to join on a Tuesday evening.

Maintain your hobbies and keep up with friends outside of your PhD and you’ll probably find it’s not that gruelling a process after all.

Plus, the people you meet and become friends with might be able to help you out – or at least be able to offer a sympathetic shoulder.

9. Practical advice.

If, after reading all of this, you’re still going to march forth and claim your doctorhood, then this section should be rather useful.

Firstly, make sure your data is backed up. It’s amazing how many people don’t do this and you’d be bonkers not to. Keep your work saved on a shared drive, so that if your computer decides to spontaneously combust upon pressing the return key, you won’t have lost all of your precious work – or have to go through every one of your lab books and type it all up again.

Secondly, don’t leave your bag in the pub with your half-written thesis in it. I did this, the bag was fine, I was in a state of terror for at least half an hour before the kind person at Weatherspoons located said bag.

Thirdly, read. Read broadly, read anything and everything that’s closely related to your project – or completely unrelated. It’s sometimes amazing where you might find a stroke of inspiration, a new technique you hadn’t thought of … or even in idea of where you might like to go next.

Finally, ask questions – all of the time. No matter how stupid it might sound in your head, everyone’s probably been asked it before, and if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

You’ll probably look far less stupid if you just ask the person standing next to you how the gradient PCR function works on your thermal cycler rather than standing there randomly prodding buttons and looking flustered, anyway.

10. Savour the positives.

At the end of all of this, it has to be said that doing a PhD is absolutely brilliant. There’s no other time in your life that you’ll be this free to pursue your very own project and work almost completely independently. By the time you come to the end of your PhD, you will be the leading expert in the world on something. A real expert! Until the next PhD student comes along …

Related reading.

A PhD, is it worth it? Just ask our students

The realities of doing a PhD

My advice for PhD students? See what bites

COVID and my PhD: to lockdown and back

How does a PhD work and how to find the right one

Building the confidence to take on a PhD

PhD life, 10 things we learned in our first six months

What’s the third year of a PhD like? Tips for navigating your PhD

PhD by experience

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Does a masters degree help completing PhD sooner?

Do students with Masters Degree complete their PhDs (in US, but I am curious about other countries too) sooner than the one's who have entered the PhD program after their undergrad?

I know it depends upon the individual, project, major and the supervisor but is there a general trend?

• In Belgium it's quite uncommon to start a PhD without having a Masters degree. –  Marc Claesen Commented Mar 23, 2014 at 8:06
• yes, but does people with masters degree complete their PhD's sooner.. –  Ank Commented Mar 23, 2014 at 8:15
• 6 Yes, you will probably complete the PhD a bit sooner. You'll have more research experience, and if continuing your research on the same or similar project, you'll already have experience in the field. However, the time shaved off your PhD will almost certainly be much less than the time invested in your Master's. –  Moriarty Commented Mar 23, 2014 at 8:44
• @Moriarty sounds like an answer, not a comment :) –  Suresh Commented Mar 23, 2014 at 8:51
• 4 In some European countries, having a Masters degree is actually mandatory to apply for a PhD program. –  PatW Commented Mar 23, 2014 at 17:07

6 Answers 6

This varies by program. In the US, in mathematics, "par" for a master's is 2 years. In some PhD programs, this will cut a year off your time-to-degree. In others, no help at all. In rare cases, it will cut two years off.

It depends on the university and the program.

In the US, most PhD granting institutions have pre-requisites for getting your PhD. This may include coursework and will also require research.

For research, one could argue that if you did research in the course of your Master's degree then you would have a time advantage in that you may be able to hit the ground running and engage in publish-able research more quickly.

In institutions that require coursework, the amount of coursework that overlaps with a Master's program can vary. Often, even if you've taken similar coursework in another university, you would still need to fulfill the course requirements in the department where you're going for your PhD. For programs that offer a combined Master's/PhD program, the courses for getting your PhD may be covered under the requirements for getting a Master's, so by already having a Master's degree you may only be shaving off a few of your requirements.

Last, at least in Computer Science, a Master's degree and a PhD are fundamentally different in what they're trying to educate you for. A Master's degree is more like an advanced bachelor's degree where you're taking additional courses and gaining extra skills. A PhD is for research. Given that fundamental difference, it's difficult to say how much would transfer over and again, it would really depend on the university and the program's expectations of what you should have when you enter and what you requirements you need to fulfill once you get there.

Not really, for example if you make your master's is like 2 years, and then your PhD in 4 years, roughly is going to be 6 years that you spent until you got your terminal degree.

I some universities is not required to follow a Master's first. I know the case of one undergraduate student who was always interested in research (when he was in his last year of bachelor he published two good articles in an important ACM conference); he applied directly to a PhD program and he got it. Now he has finished his PhD in only 4 years, and the background that he was missing he got it by following specific courses. So at the end all depends in your background and the passion you got for research.

In my department, students who enter with a masters don't have to take much formal coursework, while those who enter without one have to take much more.

Students with a masters therefore (in theory) have more time and focus to spend on research in the first year or two.

But this doesn't seem to help them finish faster (maybe by a tiny imperceptible amount). Most students aren't working very much on what will become their thesis work in that first year anyways - it's hard to come in and hit the ground running. So while the students entering with a masters might have more time for research in year 1, it doesn't usually directly advance the thesis work.

It is true that it may not shave much time off of your Ph.d, however, it prepares you for the radically different type of education that is graduate school. Forget about time, an M.A will ultimately contribute to your doctoral success in so many varying ways from acclimation to research habits.

From my experience in Biochemistry and Neurobiology (and I'm assuming most Biology and Chemistry fields).

Unfortunately, in the US, no it does not help in completing a PhD sooner.

Sometimes a masters is necessary for a person just to get into a PhD program, depending on the person's history and the program.

It would help if the PhD had some requirement of a certain level of understanding or even amount of research work, but instead a PhD tends to just require an amount of time as an indentured servant to your PI - and that amount of time doesn't change if you have a masters. Although, if you're clever and a good salesman maybe you can convince your PI and committee that your masters time should count toward your sentence/years of labor.

• 1 I disagree with the characterization of a PhD as an indentured servitude - it's definitively not that in my field. –  ff524 Commented Mar 23, 2014 at 17:16
• 1 Well it is in many fields, and down voting my comment doesn't make it any less true. There are positives and negatives of Academia. But ignoring the problems doesn't help anyone. –  shawn.mek Commented Mar 27, 2014 at 15:38
• 1 I would say that it does not only rely on the field but also on the person you are working with and how they are working. –  PatW Commented Mar 27, 2014 at 15:50
• 1 @JeffE I'm not disagreeing, I'm answering the question and saying the reality of the situation. It isn't, however, worthless. The people coming out are, for the most part, reaching some level of expertise and if they don't produce some level of research they can't do much with their degree anyway. BUT, this IS what I have seen. So I would hire a PhD knowing they are likely advanced. However, I know that PhDs have become somewhat devalued, and the system is kind of broken and exploits grad students as servants. –  shawn.mek Commented Mar 27, 2014 at 16:19
• 2 Yeah, my friends in engineering and computer science have a different story (generally). I am (with my life sciences PhD) now working mostly writing code, for bioinformatic analyses :) I'm guessing the grad experience of engineering, CS is somewhat because of the job prospects preventing such abuse of the students :) –  shawn.mek Commented Mar 27, 2014 at 16:28

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How long does a PRINCE2® 6th Edition Foundation & Practitioner Combined qualification take?

Many people have a common question about “How long does prince2 take?”. There are several reasons why studying for a PRINCE2® certificate is advantageous. It offers a well-accepted project management technique that improves your abilities and understanding of efficiently managing projects.

So for people who asks What is Prince2?  let us show you the way out! A PRINCE2® certification shows that you are dedicated to following best practices in project management, which makes you a desirable candidate for companies trying to find someone with a diary of success within the industry. Additionally, because qualified project managers are in great demand across a spread of sectors, holding a PRINCE2® certificate can cause prospects for professional growth and increased earning potential.

Are you eager to know “ how long does it take to complete the prince2 foundation?” Follow the below-mentioned points to learn about the PRINCE2 qualifications:

• The framework of PRINCE2® certifications is organized and easy. The inspiration and Practitioner certification levels are among them, and everyone focuses on a definite area of project management. 
• While the Practitioner level dives deeper into using these principles in practical circumstances, the inspiration level provides the elemental concepts and vocabulary of PRINCE2®. 
• Candidates can pass the inspiration test before they get the practitioner certification. The system methods help the candidates to know about the best practices for project management. Moreover, they need to be prepared confidently and manage challenging projects.

You might be looking for “how long does it take to complete prince2?” Consider completing the PRINCE2 certification within 20 to 50 hours. You need to notice that the qualification depends on the background and level of project management knowledge of the person. The course content is meant to be adaptable for applicants with hectic schedules, allowing them to review at their speed.

Candidates can prefer to take the 60 multiple-choice PRINCE2® Foundation test, which must be finished in one hour after completing the required study hours. Candidates can advance to the PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam. This detailed evaluation of the best techniques can be used in real-world situations.

Everybody has a common question about how long does it take to get prince2 certification. You can complete this course within 20 to 25 hours. Consider doing the following elements to be successful:

• Read the materials
• Attend the training sessions
• Be ready for the test. 

The course aims to give students a radical grasp of the PRINCE2 methodology, topics, and procedures.

What will you learn?

It is important to know about the different elements the Prince2 Exam Preparation has:

• Adapting the methodology for different projects
• Managing the risks successfully
• Guaranteeing that the projects are in line with the goals of the company
• Consider engaging with stakeholders
• Handle the change in the prince2 processes
• Maintain the project documentation
• Moreover, aspirants should opt for the knowledge and skills to manage the projects 

Consider completing the PRINCE2 6th Edition Practitioner qualification in 2 to 3 days. Training sessions, test-taking strategies, and, therefore, the final certification exam are all included during this period. The goal of the Prince2 Tutorial is to offer students the in-depth information and useful skills they have to use the PRINCE2 methodology in real-world project management situations.

There are different factors through which you know about the Reasons to get Prince2 Certified . You will gain knowledge of advanced topics, including modifying PRINCE2 to match various project contexts, using PRINCE2 principles in challenging project situations, efficiently managing project risks, and realizing the benefits of using an organized project management methodology. You’ll also learn how to oversee stakeholders, manage project teams, and guarantee that deliverables satisfy quality requirements. This prince2 book helps you to increase your project management skills and do difficult tasks easily.

Complete this course in 5 days when you have experts in your corner. Training sessions, study sessions, and, therefore, the Foundation and practitioner-level final tests are all included during this time frame. The goal of this Project Management Masters Program is to supply students with a radical grasp of the PRINCE2® methodology.

People often have the question is prince2 worth it . Well, you can shine high and get a well-establsihed future. You will study several facets of project management using the PRINCE2® framework as a part of this certificate. This covers the concepts, topics, procedures, and adapting PRINCE2® to varied project contexts. During the training sessions, you’ll also acquire practical skills in applying the technique to real-world settings through case studies and interactive activities. Know about prince2 roles and responsibilities when you enroll yourself in these programs mentioned above.

Depending on the study strategy used and, therefore, the individual’s pace, earning a PRINCE2 certification might take a couple of days to many months. Gaining an understanding of the PRINCE2 framework’s structure helps improve project management abilities and expedite the training process. Anyone will obtain PRINCE2 certification and open intriguing job options with the right materials and persistence. Take the primary step and find out how PRINCE2 will improve your career. Get the Prince2 Certification and shine high.

How long does it take to complete a PRINCE2?

The overall time to complete the PRINCE2 depends on your experience and expertise in project management. Many people have completed this course in 50 hours.

Is it hard to pass PRINCE2?

Previous aspirants stated that the PRINCE2 test is difficult. One must have strong knowledge of the methodology to complete the test, moreover the course helps you to use the skills in real world.

Is PRINCE2 easier than PMP?

PRINCE2 focuses on organized procedures and techniques. Many people even consider following the Project Management Professional certification.

How much does PRINCE2 cost?

Consider arranging $15000 before you opt for the test. The amount depends on the state and the training provider.

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How to Unlock the Earthen Allied Race in The War Within

• The War Within Campaign: This requires completion of the entire War Within campaign, including all 4 chapters at max level. This is not currently doable during The War Within Early Access,
• Mourning Rise : Complete the quests in the Mourning Rise area in Isle of Dorn, starting with Before I Depart and ending with The Weight of Duty .
• Broken Tools : Complete the quests from Machinist Kittrin in the Ringing Deeps, starting with Discarded and Broken and ending with Reforged Purpose .
• Merrix and Steelvein: Complete a series of quests in Dornogal, starting with How Scandalous! and ending with Bad Business .

Comment by Naythen12

Do we know if the actual campaign is gonna be timegated when it's out?

Comment by Misomander

> How to Unlock the Earthen Allied Race in The War Within > This is not currently doable during The War Within Early Access oh ok thanks

Comment by ChaosMonkey

It is a very nice addition to clearly indicate the quests that are a part of the requirements.

Comment by Kyungneh

I was hoping to unlock earthen this weekend, but this post confirms it’s not possible, that’s unfortunate.

Comment by Jaiie

Do we know if the actual campaign is gonna be timegated when it's out? It's not timegated now. I am 3/4ths of the way through the campaign.

Comment by MetAngO

Nooooooooooooooooo, I wanna level up a earthen with the echoes event

Comment by ThatOneGuy4239

I was hoping to unlock earthen this weekend, but this post confirms it’s not possible, that’s unfortunate. Just get everything you can done so that when they can be unlocked.....BOOM.....You got them!

Comment by Doktoren1

Do we know if the actual campaign is gonna be timegated when it's out? It's not timegated now. I am 3/4ths of the way through the campaign. Except it is, cause you can't do the max level campaign because you are "waiting for Aleria's message" ^^

Comment by Bruxify

Do we know if the actual campaign is gonna be timegated when it's out? It's not timegated now. I am 3/4ths of the way through the campaign. not the leveling campaign there is another one post 80 that is currently locked

Comment by MOMST3R

Genuinely mindboggling that Blizzard put Earthen as unlockable/playable on the EA/release roadmap and just.. didn't . Their unlock and playability is literally listed alongside all the other features that are in E A. Hero talents, new story, delves, the dungeons. And then earthen, who for some reason Blizzard decided to wait until EA went live to tell us "by the way, these won't be in EA"... Never buying EA again, just sucks to learn this lesson way too late.

Do we know if the actual campaign is gonna be timegated when it's out? It's not timegated now. I am 3/4ths of the way through the campaign. The Max level Campaign. I'm already done with the leveling one.

Comment by orryer

Genuinely mindboggling that Blizzard put Earthen as unlockable/playable on the EA/release roadmap and just.. didn't . Their unlock and playability is literally listed alongside all the other features that are in E A. Hero talents, new story, delves, the dungeons. And then earthen, who for some reason Blizzard decided to wait until EA went live to tell us "by the way, these won't be in EA"... Never buying EA again, just sucks to learn this lesson way too late. Should've known better

Comment by KoveeGedde

Yeh it sucks we cant get them. If we paid the money why shouldnt we?

The Max level Campaign. I'm already done with the leveling one. I think you will understand the confusion because upon completing the supposed leveling campaign, I got a splash screen that said I unlocked adventure mode and the Earthen allied race. The fine print, of course, is that there are secondary achievements associated with it, but if the game can lend a contradictory message to this (I assume it is a QA issue here), the players can and probably will be equally confused.

Comment by hawaiianj

> How to Unlock the Earthen Allied Race in The War Within > This is not currently doable during The War Within Early Access oh ok thanks yes are i've seen many new allied race toons running around

Comment by Grizzlemaw1993

Listed it as a feature of early access just to say "Nah nevermind." !@#$ing sucks. Was looking forward to getting my earthen leveled and done

Comment by galbsadi

Do we know if the actual campaign is gonna be timegated when it's out? It's not timegated now. I am 3/4ths of the way through the campaign. It literally is. I've finished all the leveling campaign, and the max level stuff is both rep (renown 4 all factions) and time ('wait on alleria") gated.

Comment by D3Nv

I love that when you finish the leveling campaing it literally say there on the screen that u can now play with the new allied race, but oh no! You cant !

I love that when you finish the leveling campaing it literally say there on the screen that u can now play with the new allied race, but oh no! You cant ! Precisely. Though I think we should remove the "leveling campaign" jargon as players since Blizzard has never made this distinction. It's just the "campaign" quests. There's a secondary campaign that is labeled, however, the "War within campaign" that requires this primary one to be complete as well as a couple of other secondary achievements. Finishing the primary campaign yields the pathfinder achievement. Though, I am not sure what relevance pathfinder has in this context as we have flying straight away whereas previous pathfinder achievements allowed flying on mains and alts. This seems an odd set of circumstances that Blizzard has created which are anti-pattern to their usual.

Comment by 2lazy2jz

why do they insist on doing this for new races? its a !@#$in playable race just throw us in when we want and create a starting zone to tie them in. literally the goofiest way to have a new race implemented but blizz tends to make things that dont need to be a hassle a hassle liek flying or drackthyr and evokers but hey i guess im just complaining to complain huh?