Guidance for considering a PhD

What is a PhD?

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a doctoral degree that focuses on research in a specific field. PhDs require research efforts to contribute to new knowledge.

The term 'doctorate degree' refers to various doctoral-level degrees. This category can be divided into two main types: academic (PhD) and professional.

Doctorates are the highest level of degree, meaning that you've mastered a specific area of study.

A PhD usually culminates in a dissertation of around 80,000-100,000 words, based on research carried out over the programme duration.

The research must be original, with the aim to create new knowledge or theories in a specialist area or build on existing knowledge or theories. There are few taught elements because students are expected to work independently, supported by their department and a supervisor. There may be seminars to attend and/or lab work to complete, depending on the subject.

Types of Doctorate Degrees

The types of PhDs can be put into 4 groups:

ACADEMIC

Academic doctorates (such as the standard PhD) are usually awarded for original research and scholarship in traditional academic subjects. They can prepare a student for various careers, but their main focus is on broadening theoretical understanding of a subject, rather than improving professional practice.

PROFESSIONAL

Professional doctorates are awarded for work that contributes directly to knowledge or practice in a specific vocational field. They still involve original research and analysis, but also incorporate more practical training and instruction. Candidates may require appropriate experience.

HIGHER

HONORARY

Higher doctorates are usually awarded later in a person's career, as a means of recognising esteemed researchers or practitioners. Students do not normally enrol for these doctorates as traditional university degrees.

Honorary doctorates are awarded to celebrate an individual's achievements. They do not require any specific track record of academic or professional work and can be granted at the discretion of a university. Students do not enrol for these doctorates.

What type of doctorate degree is right for me?

As a prospective postgraduate student, you only really need to concern yourself with academic or professional research degrees.

For more information, read these guides:

Considering doing your Psychology Doctorate? Check out this guide: PsyPAG Guide | BPS

The PhD application process

The application processes and methods vary for each university and area of study. PhDs can be self-proposed projects, or existing opportunities.

To find existing opportunities, visit www.findaphd.com as a good place to start. This platform has information about PhD opportunities as well as other resources, such as funding guides.

Universities will share their own information about their PhD application processes, usually as a subheading found under the ‘Postgraduate Research’ tab.

If you are considering a self-proposed topic for their PhD, have a look at this guide: How to Apply For a PhD: Step-By-Step | FindAPhD.com

Further resources

For information about applying for the University of Surrey's Doctoral College, read here.

Considering a PhD abroad? The information given here is about the UK application process: Guide to International Doctoral Opportunities

Book a careers appointment for support with your application

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Selecting a PhD programme

Consider a subject which you can sustain an interest in for at least three or four years and look for or construct a project which inspires you. However, you will also need to think about which department you want to work in and whether or not you could work well with the supervisor. Finding a good supervisor is vital – someone who you think will be able to provide the support you need to achieve this level of research.

It’s usual for people considering a PhD to contact a potential supervisor to discuss their project before applying. It’s an opportunity to talk through your research proposal, get feedback and discuss the academic’s capacity to take you on.

Additional useful resources

Funding your doctorate

Doctoral funding can come from various sources, such as Research Councils, university scholarships, professional bodies and societies, charities, foundations, trusts, employers, and overseas governments.

Funding for PhDs is usually allocated to the department, so it is worth speaking to your prospective department and PhD supervisor to see what funding is available.

Resources for funding support

Check out these guides on PhD funding:

Important to note…

Not all PhD's are funded and you can fund it yourself. However, this should be carefully considered before you start. PhDs that offer funding are more likely to be in a research area which is viable for a research-based career after your PhD is finished.

Where doctoral study can take you

Wondering what paths a PhD could lead to?

Take a look at these articles to help you see what your future could look like after your PhD studies.

Prospects: Your PhD, What Next?

What to do after a PhD

Deciding whether a PhD is right for you

If your career aspirations lie in academia or research more broadly (since not all PhD researchers work in academia), pursuing a doctoral degree may be the right path for you.

There's lots to consider before deciding to apply for a PhD, including:

Objective: Where do you want a PhD to lead you? If you have a specific career or employer in mind, have you investigated whether having a PhD will help you?
Independent research: Are you happy working alone on a project for a considerable length of time?
Skills: Do you enjoy conducting your own research? Research that is an original contribution to a specific field of knowledge?
What are the entry requirements? Make sure you are clear about what universities are looking for from doctoral candidates.

Watch this video about PhD decisions:

Have a look at this guide on navigating the pros and cons of doctoral study from The Study Room:

Pros and Cons for pursuing a PhD

Feeling stuck? Talk to us, we're here to help

Get to know the Doctoral College at the University of Surrey

The Doctoral College supports postgraduate researchers with their academic aspirations from the start of their doctoral programme. The Doctoral College team is available throughout your PhD to support you to reach your career goals and enhance your employability.

Explore careers support for PhD students and researchers

If you're still thinking of doing a PhD, and are not sure of your next steps, book an appointment with a Career Development Adviser in the Student Employability team for further support. Career Development Advisers can speak to you in-person or online, and all appointments are bookable via the Student Employability Hub.

If you are currently a PhD student looking for support with a postdoctoral role, you can book a careers appointment with a Doctoral College Adviser, also via the Employability Hub.

Book a careers appointment

Explore the Doctoral College

Finally

Don’t forget we are always happy to help you with every aspect of your career planning and development, wherever you are in your journey. If you're unclear about where to start or what to focus on first, book an appointment with our Career Development Advisers via the Surrey Employability Hub and we'll help you develop a plan to move forward.

Visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion careers resources to find out more about diversity initiatives, employer perspectives and support at Surrey.

If you would like more information, visit MySurrey Help to find answers to the most common questions and details on how to ask us a question if you require more support.