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The Doctor's In: Everything You Need to Know About Getting a PhD

Editor’s note: We welcome our new columnist, Henry Crandall, a doctoral student at the University of Utah and newest IPC Student Board Member. Henry plans to write about all things health engineering, graduate school, and wearable health monitors.

When it comes to advanced degrees, the PhD is often a misunderstood and undervalued option. In a world where MBA programs have strong name recognition, and master's degrees can seem relatively easy to obtain, the PhD is frequently overlooked. In fact, many people couldn't even tell you what the initials stand for. (Hint: It’s Doctor of Philosophy.) As someone who has embarked on this journey, I am eager to share the insights I've gained along the way. I'll cover the value of a PhD, the requirements for earning one, and some advice for successfully completing the program.

What Is the Value of Getting a PhD?
Getting a technical PhD can be an excellent choice if you’re interested in pursuing a career in research, development, or academia. Here are some positive aspects of earning a technical PhD:

Expertise: A PhD provides an avenue to an unparalleled depth of knowledge and expertise in a particular technical field. You will be trained in the latest research methods, technologies, and approaches, allowing you to contribute original ideas and solve complex technical problems.

Career opportunities: With a technical PhD, you will be eligible for a wide range of career opportunities, including research and development roles in industry, academic posts, and government positions. In many cases, a PhD is required for these types of jobs.

Recognition: A technical PhD is a significant achievement widely recognized as a mark of intellectual and academic excellence. This recognition can be valuable when seeking employment, funding, or promotions.

Personal growth: Pursuing a PhD can be a deeply rewarding personal and intellectual journey. It requires a high level of self-motivation, discipline, and creativity and can push you to your limits in terms of knowledge and problem-solving.

Collaboration: As a PhD student, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with other researchers within and outside your field. This can lead to new ideas and approaches and valuable connections that may benefit you throughout your career.

Impact: While earning your PhD, you will gain the skills and knowledge to significantly impact your field. By conducting original research, developing new technologies, and advancing the state of knowledge, you can make a real difference in the world.

Overall, a technical PhD can provide an excellent foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in research, development, or academia. It will open many doors, provide personal and intellectual growth, and allow you to make a meaningful impact in your field.

What Are the Requirements for a PhD Program?
First things first: A PhD is not merely a glorified extension of your undergraduate studies. It's a whole new ballgame, requiring a level of independence, dedication, and time management that can feel overwhelming. But, as the saying goes, "Nothing worth having comes easy," and the same holds true for a PhD.

The distinction between an undergraduate and a PhD degree can be boiled down to one key factor: depth. Think of it as the difference between dipping your toes in the pool vs. diving into the deep end. Undergraduate degrees offer a broad introduction to a field, akin to a leisurely swim on a sunny day. But if you're seeking a real challenge, you'll want to take the plunge with a PhD program, which focuses on exploring uncharted waters through rigorous research and original contributions to your field. With PhD programs, you'll be expected to not only recite facts but to lead the conversation.

Undergraduate degrees typically require the completion of a set number of course credits, while PhD programs often have a greater emphasis on research, including conducting original experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings in academic journals. The typical PhD program consists of four milestones:

1. Assemble a committee of five professors to guide your program of study.
2. Complete a written and oral technical exam on your field of research.
3. Propose your thesis in a written and oral presentation.
4. Publicly defend your written thesis.

A PhD program is designed to provide students with the advanced knowledge and expertise necessary to contribute original research and ideas to their field. In contrast, an undergraduate degree program is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of their field of study.

On a brighter note, PhD programs are among the few educational paths that don't leave you in the lurch. You may be surprised to learn that universities and research sponsors are willing to pay you to further your studies and conduct experiments. Graduate students often have all tuition expenses covered, receive subsidized insurance, and earn an average stipend of around $30,000 per year. It's the only degree I know where, not only do you avoid piling up debt, but you actually get paid for your work.

And if that amount doesn't meet your needs, there are always opportunities to boost your stipend and benefits by pursuing one of the many research scholarships known as fellowships. In short, a PhD program can provide financial stability and the rare opportunity to invest in yourself without risking a mountain of student loan debt, all while qualifying you to earn a hefty six-figure salary.

Advice for a Successful PhD
Choosing the right advisor is one key aspect of PhD life. At the doctorate level, the institution's name on your diploma has far less influence than the name of your advisor and the colleagues in their network. This person will be your mentor, cheerleader, and occasional taskmaster. Ensure they align with your research interests and have a good track record of mentoring students to successful completion. Remember, the relationship is a two-way street—be proactive in communicating your goals and needs, but also be willing to listen to their guidance and advice.

Next, don't underestimate the importance of networking. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and get involved in collaborative research projects. Not only will these opportunities enhance your CV, but they'll also provide a supportive community to lean on during the ups and downs of your PhD program. Remember, it’s as much about your network as your knowledge.

Self-care is another crucial aspect of PhD life. Yes, your research is important, but so are you. Make time for hobbies, exercise, and spending time with loved ones. It may seem counterintuitive, but taking breaks and recharging can actually lead to increased productivity in the long run.

Finally, remember that the PhD journey is not a linear path. There will be setbacks, dead ends, and moments of self-doubt. But if you approach each challenge with determination and a growth mindset, you'll emerge on the other side as a more knowledgeable, resilient, and well-rounded individual.

The PhD journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace the ups and downs, surround yourself with a supportive community, prioritize self-care, and, most importantly, never give up on your passion.