The majority of students and early career researchers in academia or pursuing research interests are usually focused on getting a PhD at some phase of their career. Gaining a PhD not only looks great on your CV but can also catapult you into the high-profile scholarly network, providing a variety of opportunities to further your research interests. Many perceptions and opinions inhabit academic circles regarding age and its impact on pursuing a PhD. Particular views on the “right age” for a PhD can often tend to undermine the confidence of many potential candidates. It is, therefore, vital that we address the notion of the “right age” for a PhD. In this article, we will strive to look at the age factor while going on to debunk the idea that there is a specific right age for a PhD.
When aiming for a PhD, age is just a number
Simply put, there is no correlation between age and starting a PhD and successfully pursuing it. If you think one can only get on the PhD track if you start early in life, think again. There are numerous examples of candidates receiving their degrees while they are in their 60s and even in the late 80s! If you are mind is muddled listening to vigorous debates on a particular right age for a PhD, then it is time to internalize the fact that no matter what your age, a PhD degree can be yours for the taking if you are prepared to work hard, ready to motivate yourself and go the extra mile.
Interestingly, the average age of PhD graduates is between 31 and 39 years, with those pursuing doctorates in sciences tending to be even lower, according to surveys. There is no doubt that a doctorate requires a certain level of academic experience and intellect. Hence, one of the most conventional paths that students take is to complete their undergraduate and master’s degrees and follow them up immediately with a PhD. The undergraduate and master’s platforms enable students to gather some research experience and think about the broad areas of study that they would want to engage in more deeply. This provides them with an ideal starting point to navigate their future doctoral journey.
Here again, personal readiness and motivation can be a deal breaker for students and early career researchers if they plan to take the doctoral plunge. Many, after securing their graduate or post-graduate degrees, opt to seek employment in industry with the objective of securing their future. This is one side of the story; on the other, we have cohorts of diverse age groups who decide to pursue a doctoral degree as a mid-career choice or even much later in life. They bring with them invaluable knowledge and practical capabilities from their specific industry sector as well as life lessons from their lived realities.
Early or late, both work
Irrespective of whether you are an early starter, at a young age, aspiring to pursue a PhD, or are thinking of a doctoral degree mid-way through your career path, both options have their share of pros and cons. As a young student or an early career researcher, you definitely have the advantage of time on your side. Moreover, since there are no family, professional, or financial pressures to bog you down, there is enough more time and flexibility at your disposal. Being in the academic universe itself is a significant advantage as there can be a seamless transition from your undergraduate or master’s studies as you move on to the doctoral plane.
On the other hand, if you are a working professional and have decided to pursue a PhD at a later stage in life, then your maturity and work experience add immense value. As opposed to young students, you may have more significant experience and enhanced clarity on the specific area with regard to your research interests and doctoral goals. Even if you have family and personal commitments to balance during this phase of your life, at least you will not have any financial constraints. Moreover, many institutions offer flexible doctoral programs that mid-career professionals can choose from, including part-time courses and distance learning programs.
Clearly, there is no “right age” to chase your PhD dreams, especially today, given the numerous part-time, online, and distance learning study modules that are presently available.
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