what jobs do you need a phd for

Ten Jobs Where You Can Use Your PhD

By Michelle Lanchart and Stacy Hartman

Earning a PhD provides you with more skills and career opportunities than you might think it does. Below are ten jobs where you can use your PhD—some in academic settings and some not. There are many other opportunities available to you; this list is just a place to start thinking about your career options.*

1. Staff culture writer, digital media company

Staff writers report on artistic and cultural events, providing analysis and context for a broad audience on a variety of topics. As a PhD, you already have the excellent writing and research skills the job requires, and your advanced training in the interpretation of literature, culture, and language enhances your ability to articulate the significance of cultural and artistic phenomena.

2. Dean of students, private high school

A dean of students leads curriculum design, develops academic and behavioral policies, and determines the best strategies to build students’ academic success. The research, leadership, and teaching experience you acquired while earning your PhD makes you a good candidate in this field.

3. Assistant professor, university or college department

An assistant professor teaches undergraduate (and, depending on the institution, graduate) courses, serves on committees that help determine academic and organizational policies for the department and institution, and conducts research, with an eye toward receiving tenure.

4. Research associate, variety of companies

As a research associate you would gather data to determine whether a product or service is desirable to consumers or companies. Your extensive experience conducting research and presenting it to a variety of audiences is a transferable skill that you bring to research associate positions.

5. Development writer, nonprofit or university

A development writer builds relationships with donors and increases public engagement through written and oral communication. Your ability to write about specialized research or technical activities for a general audience is useful for this position.

6. Assistant director, learning programs

Assistant directors have a variety of responsibilities, from providing instructional support to faculty members and graduate students to assessing and improving educational services. This can be an exciting opportunity to apply your teaching and leadership experience beyond the classroom.

7. Associate director, global programs

Associate directors work with faculty members to develop programs and curricula for students studying abroad. Your experiences teaching, developing educational programs, as well as studying, living, and researching abroad, are ideal for this position.

8. Program officer, think tank, foundation, or scholarly association

As a program officer you would take the lead in program development, which involves procuring grants and funding, managing projects, and overseeing budgets. These roles leverage your experience applying for funding and managing complex projects.

9. Copywriter, many companies and organizations

Copywriters produce and edit copy (i.e., writing) for marketing campaigns and then plan and implement those campaigns, which help companies promote products and services across a variety of media. Excellent research and writing skills and an ability to write for different audiences are essential for this job.

10. Curriculum designer, educational technology

Curriculum designers develop educational content and curricula to be delivered digitally to students or employees and often provide technical support to instructors or trainers. This is a great role for those who have developed skills in the digital humanities or in blended learning, and it also leverages your experiences in teaching and in curriculum development.

Your PhD gives you the skills to pursue a variety of career paths. To learn more about how to prepare for the job search and how to gain experience in the industries that interest you, visit the  Connected Academics Web site .

*Please note that the job ads are provided as examples and may no longer be accepting applications. A job ad’s inclusion in this list does not constitute an endorsement of the employer by the MLA.

3 comments on “Ten Jobs Where You Can Use Your PhD”

Steve Colburn says:

And don’t forget Government service at the Municipal, County, State, and Federal Level. I know Language and Literature academics who have pursued rewarding careers at all of these levels of Government service to the public, and have received good financial compensation, enjoyed reliable job security, defined-benefit pension programs, and the opportunity to pursue a challenging, rewarding job! Retired Training Manager and Senior Organizational Policy Analyst for Local County Government in Sunny South Florida! Life Member of the MLA, since Grad School in 1976.

Peter Marbais says:

There are a number of language editing opportunities in addition to copy editing. I made the transition from teaching English literature and composition to editing documents for ESL writers aspiring to publish in English-language journals. My experience helping ESL students at the Kent State University writing center and in my composition courses paved the way to helping researchers from around the world. The work is highly rewarding, and there are a number of great resources available online for both contract editors (freelancers) and full-time editors. This link provides a good overview of several types of editing roles: https://www.thebalancesmb.com/freelance-editing-jobs-1360401 .

Peter Marbais, PhD, ELS Quality Control Editor III American Journal Experts, a Research Square company

David -Ross Gerling says:

I made the transition to a law firm in Spain whose clients are Brits and American ex-pats or just foreigners in trouble with the Spanish legal system. My work as ex-pat advocate is every bit as satisfying and infinitely more lucrative than teaching Spanish . David-Ross Gerling, PhD

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•       Resources       25 Careers that Require a Master’s Degree

25 Careers that Require a Master’s Degree

Students entering bachelor’s degree programs often set their sights on management-level positions as a long-term goal. Earning a master’s degree in their field of choice is one of the first steps to reaching a position that allows for more variety, decision making and earning potential. Knowing in advance where you want to go in your career and who you want to impact can help students to decide which degree programs to pursue, making it a good idea to explore master’s degree options sooner rather than later. Here, we’ve profiled the top 25 careers that require a master’s degree as the entry-level education, with salary and projected job growth information to help you make informed choices about your higher education goals.

Top 25 Careers that Require a Master’s Degree

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Payscale

Steps to Earning Your Master’s and Starting a Career

Students must have a bachelor’s degree under your belt to pursue a master’s degree, making it helpful to research programs and career goals before starting college. Having an educational track in mind allows students to take the right prerequisite courses as part of a bachelor’s program and ensures you’re on the right path to success. Find out how to go from a bachelor’s degree student to do a master’s degree graduate.

• Earn your bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university. In order to pursue a master’s degree, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree. It’s helpful to hold a bachelor’s degree in a similar field as what you’d like to pursue at a post-bachelor level.
• Research master’s degree programs. Before choosing a master’s degree programs, it’s important to do your research and find one that meets your personal and professional needs. Things like program delivery (online, in-person, evening classes) and program accreditation are important considerations. You’ll also want to know the placement rate of graduates and whether financial assistance is available.
• Choose a master’s program. Each program will have its own requirements and prerequisites, so it’s important to know what those are so you know whether or not you qualify. You’ll also want to know the deadline for application and enrollment as some programs run on a cohort basis and only start at certain times of the year.
• Pass the necessary prerequisites. If you don’t have all the necessary classes under your belt for the program you’re applying for, be sure to do this well ahead of the application deadline. Getting a passing grade in prerequisite classes is essential – don’t let those grades slip! Also make sure that all prerequisites are earned at an accredited school.
• Take the right standardized assessments. Most master’s programs ask for certain standardized test scores as part of the application. Many general programs require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as part of the application process. Degrees in more specific fields may have their own tests, like the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) for master’s in business administration programs or the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) for medical school.
• Fill out applications. Contact an enrollment counselor at your school of choice to find out what applications are required for the university and for the program you’re interested in. Give yourself plenty of time to compile all the required essays, transcripts and letters of recommendation.
• Apply for scholarships. Earning a master’s degree can be expensive, so apply for scholarships that are both industry- and school-specific. If you’re currently working for an organization that allows tuition reimbursement, take advantage of that but know in advance what the repayment requirements are if you don’t remain employed in the organization after you receive your degree.
• Identify research and internship opportunities. Depending on your field of study, there may be opportunities for you to work with professors or industry professionals through research and internships. Both provide hands-on experience that will be invaluable assets for your resume after graduation.
• Network in your field to increase employment opportunities. When you earn a master’s degree, you’re more marketable for leadership positions in your industry. Networking with other professionals through trade organizations and associations or even local leadership groups is a great way to meet people who might make hiring decisions later.
• Apply for necessary certifications or licenses. Depending on your field of study, you may be required to earn certifications or licenses before starting a career. Find out what’s available in your industry; holding the certifications or licenses with your master’s degree may be essential to growth and flexibility in your career.
• Apply for jobs. Many universities have job placement assistant. If your master’s degree allows you to promote to a new position in your current company or in another organization, be sure to keep your eyes open for new opportunities.

Spotlight: Careers that Require a Doctorate Degree

A doctorate is usually the terminal, or final, degree available in a specific field. It usually takes longer to complete a doctorate than a master’s degree, meaning it will likely cost more. However, it’s not always necessary to earn a doctorate in your field. Master’s degrees are typical for more business-minded individuals and careers, while doctorates are designed for those who want to focus more on research-based careers. At the same time, not all doctorate programs require a master’s degree for admission; going straight from a bachelor’s degree with work experience to a doctorate program can be the norm in many cases. Below is a list of a few careers that require a doctorate at the entry level.

8 Careers You Can Pursue with a Doctorate in Education

Industry Advice Education

By earning a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree, you’re preparing yourself for a career with lasting impact—on students, on the future of a college or university, on your community, or on the trajectory of a nonprofit trying to improve other communities locally and abroad.

You’re also positioning yourself for advancement. Professionals who earn an EdD are qualified for roles leading and operating schools at the elementary, high school, or college level. They learn to lead in a way that can be transferred to the front of a classroom or at the ground level of an organization.

An EdD signals to employers that you’re a thought leader; that you’re someone who’s demonstrated the capacity to identify a problem, examine issues from multiple perspectives, and offer relevant insights for practical solutions. With your doctorate in hand, you’re prepared to take on a leadership role across a variety of industries.

Here’s a look at the types of positions EdD graduates pursue and eight of the top careers available in the field. 

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What Type of Positions Do EdD Students Pursue?

Northeastern’s EdD students cultivate their leadership skills in the program by integrating practice and insights from experienced faculty and high-achieving peers . They come from diverse fields, including business, criminal justice, healthcare, military, human services, and the nonprofit sector. Their job titles and careers are just as diverse, with students working as policymakers, systems analysts, and administrative leaders within higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies.

Top Careers for Doctor of Education Graduates

1. college president.

Average Annual Salary: $272,203

Presidents are the top leaders of a college or university. They establish and execute on their school’s strategic vision, spearhead fundraising, attend student events, and deliver speeches to a variety of constituents, such as donors, lawmakers, government, and faculty, to raise the profile of the institution both locally and abroad. They also collaborate with senior administrators, faculty, and staff to devise new ways to support students and improve their learning environment while maintaining high academic standards. Depending on the type of public or private institution they lead, college presidents can earn impressive seven-figure salaries . 

2. Chief Learning Officer

Average Annual Salary: $152,225

In education, top executive roles include positions like “chief learning officer”—a senior-level professional who develops and drives strategies that help his or her college or university meet critical business goals. Chief learning officers (CLOs) focus on creating strategies for training, learning, and development, and typically oversee an institute’s latest technologies, such as its online learning platform.

Average Annual Salary: $148,783

A provost—or vice president, depending on the college or university—is a senior-level academic administrator who tends to be second in command after the president. Provosts work closely with deans and department heads, and help determine their institution’s academic goals and priorities, as well as how to allocate the resources necessary to support those initiatives. They often oversee daily operations and work to hire and retain a diverse faculty. 

4. School Superintendent

Average Annual Salary: $116,931

Superintendents are the top executives of a school district. They’re responsible for establishing and overseeing their district’s budget, staffing, infrastructure, and spending. Superintendents collaborate closely with a school board to develop and implement new policies and programs in line with the district’s short- and long-term goals, as well as allocate the financial and human resources necessary to achieve the district’s overarching vision.

5. Elementary, Middle, and High School Principal

Average Annual Salary: $95,310

Principals oversee the daily operations of an elementary, middle, or high school. They hire teachers and staff, manage the budget, and enforce disciplinary rules when necessary. Principals also develop and assess educational programming aimed at achieving student learning outcomes, all while striving to create and maintain a positive learning environment. More than 11,000 principal positions are expected to emerge by 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

A principal’s salary might differ depending on whether he or she works at an elementary, middle, or high school. The mean wages for principals at each level, according to PayScale are:

• Elementary School : $81,095
• Middle School : $87,989
• High School : $92,197

6. Academic Dean

Average Annual Salary: $90,339  

Deans work at the senior administrative level of a college or university. The role varies depending on the institution, but deans often manage faculty and staff, set academic goals, implement strategic planning, oversee their department’s budget, help fundraise, support research initiatives, and foster student development. Some departments you might find them in are:

• Admissions : Those working in admissions develop and lead recruitment initiatives for a college or university. They evaluate applications, decide the number of students who should be admitted to the school, who those students should be, and communicate with prospects and their families.
• Research : A dean of research often oversees faculty and collaborates with them to create a strategy for developing short- and long-term research initiatives. They also work to secure research funding, oversee the research budget, and establish key industry partnerships.
• Student Affairs : The student affairs office typically oversees a variety of different departments, such as residence life, athletics, student support services, and diversity and inclusion. A dean of student affairs typically establishes and evaluates nonacademic programs that foster and enrich the student experience, as well as handle disciplinary issues and communicate with students’ parents or legal guardians.
• Advancement : The advancement office—also known as “development” or “alumni relations” depending on the school—is responsible for securing funding for the college or university from potential donors, including alumni, government policymakers, corporations, and foundations. They nurture and maintain those relationships, ensuring all gifts received are being used as intended.

7. Professor

Average Annual Salary: $78,470

Postsecondary teachers, or professors, work at the college or university level, developing course curricula, instructing students in a specific area of study, and assessing their progress. When they’re not teaching, professors are often conducting research, writing scholarly papers, or attending conferences.

Professors’ salaries vary based on where they are on the tenure track and their area of expertise. The median salary for a professor based on rank, according to PayScale, is:

• Instructor : $49,510
• Lecturer: $51,101
• Assistant Professor : $67,021
• Associate Professor : $76,250
• Professor : $87,018

Salaries range further depending on the professor’s focus. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the top 10 highest-paying subjects—and what those subjects offer in terms of average annual wage—are:

• Law : $111,140
• Engineering : $101,720
• Economics : $101,720
• Health Specialties : $97,370
• Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Science : $90,860
• Physics : $90,800
• Architecture : $86,980
• Forestry and Conservation Science : $86,900
• Agricultural Sciences : $84,640
• Business : $83,960

8. Executive Director of Education

Average Annual Salary: $73,640

Executive directors are often the senior leaders of a nonprofit organization or business. They work closely with a board of directors but are the ones who make the daily operational decisions. Executive directors hire and manage staff, handle external relations, engage volunteers, oversee the budget—including all fundraising initiatives—and develop policies, programs, and strategies that guide the organization’s mission and purpose. 

What Can You Do with a Doctorate in Education from Northeastern?

When you earn your EdD from Northeastern , you’re not only advancing your own work, you’re joining a top-tier university and pursuing a rigorous education with an entrepreneurial orientation toward making our world a better place. You’re joining a vast network of students and alumni in the EdD, which spans more than 2,000 professionals across many domains of education. You’re gaining access to engaging faculty who understand the importance of professional experiences in a growing leadership capacity, and who are prepared to offer you personal attention to support your professional development.

With your EdD, you can make a difference in the lives of children, communities, and organizations, as you transform your problem of practice into a plan for change and action.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in September of 2017. It has since been updated for accuracy and relevance. 

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The median annual salary for professional degree holders is $97,000. (BLS, 2020)

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Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

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

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

Verywell / Evan Polenghi

Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.

Job opportunities, earning a degree, specialty areas, alternatives.

Getting a Ph.D. in psychology can open up a whole new world of career opportunities. For many careers paths in psychology-related career paths, a doctoral degree is necessary to obtain work and certification. A Ph.D. is one option, but it is not the only educational path that's available to reach some of these goals.

A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is one of the highest level degrees you can earn in the field of psychology . If you're considering pursuing a graduate degree, you might be wondering how long it takes to earn a Ph.D. in psychology . Generally, a bachelor's degree takes four years of study. While a master's degree requires an additional two to three years of study beyond the bachelor's, a doctoral degree can take between four to six years of additional graduate study after earning your bachelor's degree.

Recently, a new degree option known as the Psy.D. , or doctor of psychology, has grown in popularity as an alternative to the Ph.D. The type of degree you decide to pursue depends on a variety of factors, including your own interests and your career aspirations.

Before deciding which is right for you, research your options and decide if graduate school in psychology is even the best choice for you. Depending on your career goals, you might need to earn a master's or doctoral degree in psychology in order to practice in your chosen field. In other instances, a degree in a similar subject such as counseling or social work may be more appropriate.

A doctorate in psychology is required if you want to open your own private practice.

If you want to become a licensed psychologist, you must earn either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology.

In most cases, you will also need a doctorate if you want to teach and conduct research at the college or university level. While there are some opportunities available for people with a master's degree in various specialty fields, such as industrial-organizational psychology and health psychology , those with a doctorate will generally find higher pay, greater job demand, and more opportunity for growth.

In order to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, you need to first begin by earning your bachelor's degree. While earning your undergraduate degree in psychology can be helpful, students with bachelor's degrees in other subjects can also apply their knowledge to psychology Ph.D. programs . Some students in doctorate programs may have a master's degree in psychology , but most doctorate programs do not require it.

After you’ve been admitted to a graduate program, it generally takes at least four years to earn a Ph.D. and another year to complete an internship. Once these requirements have been fulfilled, you can take state and national exams to become licensed to practice psychology in the state where you wish to work.

Once you enter the graduate level of psychology, you will need to choose an area of specialization, such as clinical psychology , counseling psychology, health psychology, or cognitive psychology . The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits graduate programs in three areas: clinical, counseling, and school psychology.   If you are interested in going into one of these specialty areas, it's important to choose a school that has received accreditation through the APA.

For many students, the choice may come down to a clinical psychology program versus a counseling psychology program. There are many similarities between these two Ph.D. options, but there are important distinctions that students should consider. Clinical programs may have more of a research focus while counseling programs tend to focus more on professional practice. The path you choose will depend largely on what you plan to do after you complete your degree.

Of course, the Ph.D. in psychology is not the only graduate degree option. The Psy.D. is a doctorate degree option that you might also want to consider. While there are many similarities between these two degrees, traditional Ph.D. programs tend to be more research-oriented while Psy.D. programs are often more practice-oriented.

The Ph.D. option may be your top choice if you want to mix professional practice with teaching and research, while the Psy.D. option may be preferred if you want to open your own private psychology practice.

In the book "An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology," authors John C. Norcross and Michael A. Sayette suggest that one of the key differences between the two-degree options is that the Ph.D. programs train producers of research while Psy.D. programs train consumers of research. However, professional opportunities for practice are very similar with both degree types.

Research suggests that there are few discernible differences in terms of professional recognition, employment opportunities, or clinical skills between students trained in the Ph.D. or Psy.D. models. One of the few differences is that those with a Ph.D. degree are far more likely to be employed in academic settings and medical schools.

Social work, counseling, education, and the health sciences are other graduate options that you may want to consider if you decide that a doctorate degree is not the best fit for your interests and career goals.

A Word From Verywell

If you are considering a Ph.D. in psychology, spend some time carefully researching your options and thinking about your future goals. A doctoral degree is a major commitment of time, resources, and effort, so it is worth it to take time to consider the right option for your goals. The Ph.D. in psychology can be a great choice if you are interested in being a scientist-practitioner in the field and want to combine doing research with professional practice. It's also great training if you're interested in working at a university where you would teach classes and conduct research on psychological topics.

University of Pennsylvania; School of Arts and Sciences. Information for applicants .

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

U.S. Department of Labor.  Psychologists . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Norcross JC, Sayette MA. An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (2020/2021 ed.) . New York, NY: The Guilford Press; 2020.

Davis SF, Giordano PJ, Licht CA. Your Career in Psychology: Putting Your Graduate Degree to Work . John Wiley & Sons; 2012. doi:10.1002/9781444315929

US Department of Education. Bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by sex of student and discipline division: 2016-17 .

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

Doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. and Psy.D.) – everything you need to know in 2024

What’s in this guide, ph.d. or psy.d., why do a doctorate in psychology, entry requirements, phd in psychology jobs, how long does it take to study, is a doctorate program all theory/studying, career path, earning potential , find psychology doctorate degree programs.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A doctorate in psychology is the highest level of graduate degree in the field. As a result, there are lots of career options to choose from, including research roles, and clinical roles.

There are many reasons you may want to pursue a doctorate degree in Psychology, the following guide will provide everything you need to know; from the options, costs, timeframes, career advantages and more.

First up, what are the two types of doctorate degree you can get and what are the differences?

The two doctorate degrees you can get in psychology are Ph.D. and Psy.D.

In simple terms, a Ph.D. in psychology is more research-focused, while a Psy.D. emphasizes clinical practice. The best choice between the two depends on your career goals and whether you prefer research and academia or direct clinical work.

• Doctorate-level psychologists typically have higher earning potential compared to those with a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree in the field.
• Gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in your chosen area of specialization within psychology.
• Potentially make significant contributions to the field.
• Advanced career opportunities in various settings, such as academia, research institutions, government agencies, hospitals, and private practice.
• Connect with other professionals, researchers, and academics in the field of psychology, expanding your professional network

The minimum requirements to study a doctorate degree in psychology will vary from institution to institution. However, there are several common requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree:  all programs require applicants to have completed a  bachelor’s degree , in psychology or a related field. Some programs may accept candidates with a degree in another discipline if they have completed prerequisite coursework in psychology.
• Master’s degree : Some doctoral programs require applicants to have a  master’s degree in psychology  or a related field. Others may admit students directly from their bachelor’s degree and incorporate a master’s degree into the doctorate program.
• GPA : Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement, usually 3.0 or higher. Some competitive programs require a higher GPA.
• Letters of recommendation : Applicants typically need to submit letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to their academic and research abilities.
• Research experience : Prior research experience is often valued by doctoral programs in psychology. This may include experience working on research projects, completing a thesis, or participating in research internships or assistantships.
• Personal statement:  Applicants usually need to submit a personal statement or statement of purpose that outlines their academic and research interests, career goals, and why they are interested in the specific doctoral program.
• Addiction Counselor
• ABA Therapist
• Mental Health Therapist
• Licensed Mental Health Conselor
• Licensed Professional Counselor
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Organizational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Research Psychologist
• Professor of Psychology
• Child Psychologist

*Outside of the licensed psychologist jobs listed above many of the above roles  do not require  a PhD but it is important to note that employers for these roles are increasingly favoring candidates with a PhD. 

For the majority of students, a doctorate in Psychology may take anywhere from 4-7 years to finish, which will include a research dissertation and most likely residency or an internship in clinical or medical environments.

No. Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs in clinical or counseling psychology usually require students to complete a pre-doctoral internship as part of their training.

This internship typically lasts one year and involves supervised clinical practice in various settings, such as hospitals, mental health clinics, or community agencies.

The internship experience is intended to provide students with practical, hands-on training in their chosen area of specialization and help them develop the skills necessary for independent practice.

For Ph.D. programs in other areas of psychology, such as experimental, social, or  developmental psychology , internships or practicum experiences may be less common or not required. Instead, these programs may emphasize research experience and skills development.

With a PHD in psychology, you have a whole host of options when it comes to your career. With this kind of degree, you can work in specialty areas of psychology, depending on your studies and particular interests, or you can work as a researcher, an educational consultant, a forensic psychologist, political strategist, staff psychologist, private psychologist, professor of psychology, psychiatrist, or a clinical psychologist.

The earning potential for psychologists with doctoral degrees or PHDs can vary greatly depending on the specific specialty of psychology in which they work. General psychologists may earn around $90,000 a year, with the average salary around $84,000 per year.

On the other hand, clinical, counseling and school psychologists with PHDs tend to earn around $81,000 per year. The highest paying psychology careers can average up to $167,000, so studying a PHD in psychology will be worth it in the long run when it comes to career prospects.

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What Can You Do With a PhD?

Why Do a PhD? Benefits and Career Directions

Are you thinking about a PhD as the next stage in your educational and professional development? It’s an exciting road to travel with many potential benefits and opportunities. But you have to earn it first so considering what’s involved is important.

Requirements for a PhD award vary greatly globally and from institution to institution. PhD applicants are expected to have gained at least an Honours degree and sometimes a Master’s degree to be eligible to apply for a PhD programme.

It’s best to find out as much as possible about not only what you can expect during the PhD process but also what will be expected of you. Will the commitments in terms of time, effort and money prove worthwhile? Identifying the pros and cons will help you to weigh up whether this is the right step for you.

The on-going impacts of COVID -19 have to be taken into account. Not only have teaching and learning practices altered in Higher Education but so have ways of working and connecting with each other as technological change advances more rapidly. Sudden shifts and uncertainties mean that flexibility must be factored into any PhD planning, such as supervision or research having to be carried out online.

This article will outline possible career paths and prospects that can follow on from having a PhD as well as the benefits during the process.

First of all ask yourself- Is a PhD right for me?

Do some self-assessment:.

• what your educational experiences and achievements are up to now
• identify what you liked and disliked
• what you were good/skilled at, what you found difficult

Talk to others

Whilst there is no ‘typical’ PhD experience as everyone’s paths differ, it’s helpful to talk to those who have done or are doing a PhD about what is involved. You can make contacts through networks and online forums and find out more about their experience. Read articles and other relevant documents including university publications plus online sources. There is a wide range of websites offering case studies of career stories from what people have done with their PhD.

What parts of doing a PhD appeal to you?

It could be spending time in libraries and archives, fieldwork and interviews, running experiments, analysing data, problem-solving, creative thinking, writing and communicating your findings to others. It’s just as important to ask yourself which parts of it don’t appeal and consider how you would handle those aspects.

Once you’ve done this assessment you can think more about what a PhD might lead to.

Benefits of the PhD experience

The skills you gain and improve during a PhD are transferable and applicable to a wide range of careers. Prospective employers look for those with experience of doing research and a PhD is a research-based degree. What you researched might be directly related to jobs you apply for but it doesn’t need to be: it’s the fact that you have research experience that counts.

Employers also look for those with good written and spoken communication skills (online and face to face) and who can plan and deliver presentations. These could be for team meetings, conferences or sales pitches. Whilst doing a PhD, you will be networking not just within your university but in other areas. In recent years, networking skills have become more important in the work environment. Having networking experience, whether it’s ‘working the room’ at a conference or meeting or attending an online event will boost your potential and help you stand out.

You can develop your networks by attending conferences, talks and other events apart from regular contact with other students and tutors. These may be online given COVID restrictions but opportunities for face- to- face events have increased in the second half of 2021. These contacts can provide useful support and also share work opportunities. There are many online study and research forums  that can help you through your PhD and also offer opportunities for  finding work whilst you are studying  and post-graduation. Some of these online forums may be arranging small-scale physical meet-ups.

Considering Career Possibilities

Whilst a PhD is often seen as professional training for academia, this is just one possibility. In the UK less than half of PhD graduates become academics and this figure can lower in other countries.

As with any career ambitions, assessment of all that is involved. Academics are expected to do much more than research, teach and supervise students.

If this is what you’re aiming for, start preparing by taking up opportunities for  part-time teaching  that might fit into your schedule. This is valuable work experience even if you later decide not to go into academia.

Outside Academia

There are many options in the professions, business and management, public sector and more. From small and local, to large and global, many companies and institutions seek highly qualified personnel. Think about the  types of organisations  you could work for: everything from large multinationals, NGOs, charities, local and national government, regulatory bodies and agencies, SMEs (small to medium enterprises with under 250 employees). The vast majority of companies in the UK are SMEs and offer excellent career progression opportunities.

Different employment sectors have their specific features but increasingly overlap as economic, technological and political changes come into play. Whilst we can distinguish the public and private sectors these have shown degrees of convergence in recent years.

The Professions

These typically involve prolonged training and formal qualifications such as accountancy, civil service, law and medicine. Having a PhD is considered to be  indicative of professional development  but additional training may be required for your chosen area.

Self-employment

This category encompasses all forms of working for yourself, whether setting up a small business by yourself or with others, doing consultancy work or a mix of these.

The self-employed account for around 15% of the labour force in the UK.

There are possibilities of freelance working within academia as well as in other areas, by packaging and selling your expertise and skills. The advantages include being ‘your own boss’, taking on work you choose and being free of the 9 to 5 routine.

There are also challenges, with responsibilities for legal compliance and taxation. There may be long working hours without the ‘cushion’ of secure monthly income and paid holidays.

In the past decade, digital entrepreneurship has rapidly expanded with new start-ups coming online all the time. This trend has increased over the past 18 months as more people lost jobs and decided to set up their own businesses from home.

It’s likely that the gig economy will continue to develop and you may consider if you want to enter this as a sole proprietor or as an employee if self-employment is not your preferred career route.

Not-For-Profit

This includes charities, NGOs and community interest companies. As in other sectors, some are small and local whilst others are global, eg. Oxfam. NGOs might focus on one area or multiple parts of the world but a specific theme such as human rights or the environment. There are openings at different levels and whilst they may rely on volunteers they do have paid positions in fund-raising, advocacy, administration, marketing and management.

The skills and experience gained by a PhD graduate can certainly be applied elsewhere, particularly if you keep an open mind and your eyes on the jobs market from the early days of your  doctoral journey . You can upgrade your employability profile by networking and taking advantage of your university’s employability support and opportunities including gaining some work experience. This is always a big bonus and increasingly required by employers.

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Dr. Ruth Cherrington

Ruth Cherrington has a long record as a higher education professional. She has been a lecturer, trainer and employability adviser both in the UK and abroad. Ruth has always been committed to maximizing the professional development of those she works with. Another strand to her career is as a writer, with a wide range of publications to her name. Ruth enjoys travelling to meet former students and colleagues across the world. LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthcherringtonnumber7/

Reader Interactions

You may also like:.

12th March 2021 at 11:16 pm

I am an environmental chemist working in the waste management industry. I have an MSci degree, and hope to stay in this industry. I am curious if pursuing a PhD will improve my job prospects later down the line, or would working towards a chartership be more valuable?

3rd February 2023 at 2:47 pm

Pursuing a Ph.D. doesn’t only polish your skills, But also gives you a new form of understanding the demand for knowledgeable people required by industries. If you look outside towards different companies offering you more money and benefits, Ph.D. works as fuel to reach higher posts. In the education sector, there is a demand for Ph.D. professors. If you have an industry experience with a Ph.D. your hourly wage varies from around £70 to £100 an hour. I wish you best of luck

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• 30 April 2024

The science of 3 Body Problem : what’s fact and what’s fiction?

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Particle physicist Saul Durand (played by Jovan Adepo) and nanotechnology specialist Augustina (Auggie) Salazar (played by Eiza González) look to the sky for a signal from the alien San-Ti civilization. Credit: BFA/Ed Miller/Netflix via Alamy

An alien civilization spying on humans using quantum entanglement. A planet chaotically orbiting three stars. Nanofibres capable of slicing through Earth’s hardest substance, diamond. Despite being chock-full of hardcore science, 3 Body Problem , a television series released on 21 March by the streaming service Netflix, has been a hit with audiences. So far, it has spent five weeks straight in Netflix’s list of the top-three programmes viewed globally.

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What You Need to Know About Making a Good Impression

We evolved to form snap judgments about who’s friend and who’s foe, but we need to be more evolved now.

Want to stay current with Arthur’s writing? Sign up to get an email every time a new column comes out.

A round this time every year, I dispense a lot of advice to my graduate students, most of whom are on the job market. I get questions such as “How do I find a job that perfectly matches my strengths?” (A: You won’t, so stop worrying about it.) Or “Should I take a job and live in a different city than my spouse?” (A: No.) And very typically, “How do I make a good impression in an interview?” (A: Read on.)

I find that some young people are extremely anxious about this last one, especially if they are naturally introverted and know it. They worry that their shyness makes them seem standoffish or uninterested; in an interview, of course, those traits can be deadly, so they are concerned that their introverted personality will hamstring their efforts.

Undeniably, first impressions are extremely powerful—in work, romance, friendship, and almost every other part of life. People make judgments based on information they process in a split second, below the level of consciousness. That does not mean, however, that anyone is doomed by a naturally serious demeanor, a taciturn disposition, or plain old nervousness. On the contrary, a little understanding of the science of first impressions can help anyone improve the ways they affect the brains of people they meet, and better understand others as well.

Arthur C. Brooks: How to be less busy and more happy

O ver millions of years , our biological ancestors evolved the ability to form first impressions in a fraction of a second. Neuroscientists have determined that people can by sight decide consistently in as little as 39 milliseconds whether someone is a threat or not. In other words, about three times faster than you can blink, your optical and limbic systems decide if another person might cause you harm. For humans to develop this ability through natural selection is logical; almost nothing rewards survival more than effective threat perception.

Close behind in speed, at 100 milliseconds, comes a consistent estimation of trustworthiness . Once again, this makes sense: You might not kill me outright, but I should still figure out if you’re trying to take advantage of me before I interact with you. (This rapid processing also involves, for example, how your brain decides whether to make direct eye contact with that person staring at you on the subway.) This aspect of threat perception reveals a significant difference between the sexes; when surveying a face that people generally judge to look trustworthy, women rate other women , in particular, as significantly more trustworthy than men do.

Honing our accuracy of perception for other traits such as competence, likability, aggressiveness, and attractiveness takes us longer, because we need more time to be confident in our judgments; quite commonly, our rapid initial judgments may be inconsistent with what we later decide. But when given enough time to consider observed behavior, some judgments, such as assessing a person’s competence , tend to update more slowly—especially when compared with how long we need in order to judge such traits as benevolence and integrity.

Megan Garber: The case for shyness

In sum, at an initial encounter between two people—which could be a job interview or a date—each person’s brain assesses the other person by answering at least three questions: Are you a threat? Can you be trusted? Are you competent? Within seconds, before either of you is even conscious of the fact, you might be ruled out as an employee or as a potential mate. No pressure!

You might be thinking that judgments made this quickly are open to a lot of error. After all, evolution should favor speed over accuracy, and tend to reward a negative snap judgment because it errs on the side of caution. The potential cost of incorrectly seeing someone as a threat is low, but the price of mistaking them as not a threat could be enormous.

Given this bias, it’s no surprise that first perceptions tend to be inaccurate. Researchers in 2010 asked participants in an experiment to view photos of strangers, and based on initial impressions, to judge aspects of their personality. The researchers found that their subjects claimed confidence in their judgments 70 to 80 percent of the time, but their actual accuracy was either modest or statistically nonexistent.

People may arrive at erroneous judgments about you for many different reasons. For example, if you’re nervous when first meeting, your facial expression and demeanor might not fairly represent your true character, intent, and competence. Tension might make you frown when you’re actually excited, or you might fumble your words when talking about a topic you know cold. This can elicit what is known as a fundamental attribution error , which occurs when an interlocutor attributes to your personality behavior that is conditioned more by the circumstances.

Read: When a job is just too much

S o much for how first impressions are formed, but what about how to control the impression you make? To come off well in an interview, the first objective is to project an expression and manner that is nonthreatening, trustworthy, and competent. Fortunately, a handy way to do just this is simply to look happy. Neuroscientists have shown that facial expressions interpreted as fear or anger will stimulate an observer’s amygdala, which arouses their alarm and suspicion. Scholars have likewise demonstrated in experiments that people with expressions seen as happy are judged to be more trustworthy and competent than those seen as disgusted.

So smile . By this advice, I do not mean that you should grin like Jack Nicholson in The Shining —that will light up your interviewer’s amygdala like a Christmas tree. The goal is to model what researchers call the Duchenne smile , which is associated with actual happiness. Not only does smiling like this denote a positive mood to others, but it also, scholars have shown , can reduce stress in you .

If this demeanor doesn’t come naturally, here’s a trick : Before your interview, spend a few seconds in the restroom with a pencil gripped horizontally between your molars. This will flex the muscles around your eyes, where happiness is actually perceived when you smile (rather than by the shape of your mouth).

This is not a global solution to a successful first impression, however. Research shows that although a relaxed smile is great for interviewing, it does not necessarily work for dating. Scholars writing in the journal Emotion in 2011 found that although straight men judge a happy expression as the most sexually attractive way for a woman to look, women say that it is one of the least attractive looks for a man. At a first meeting, then, men need to be sure whether they’re after a job or on a date.

Arthur C. Brooks: Jung’s five pillars of a good life

T here’s one more piece of advice I like to give my students. They may be interviewing for a job now, but before too long, they will be interviewing other people for a job. I recommend that they not trust their gut too much. Instead, I advise them to recall that first impressions evolved to be fast, not accurate. That’s great in an environment where strangers might pose a threat of violence or exploitation. But in a modern job interview, that inaccuracy simply means you’re likely to rule out a lot of great potential recruits.

In general, when first meeting someone, interrogate the signals you’re getting from your brain about the interviewee. You can still pay attention to what your gut says; you just don’t have to take it at its word. If something feels off, specifically ask yourself whether this person might be nervous or shy. Giving that extra consideration is the right thing to do—and you might discover a star whose reserved manner made others overlook their talent.

Everything you need to know about Ohio State spring commencement ceremony

School districts across Ohio canceled graduation ceremonies in the spring of 2020 to curb the spread of COVID-19. Four years later, some of those students will finally get the chance to have their academic progress publicly recognized when they receive their college diplomas at Ohio State University's spring commencement this weekend .

Read More: From COVID to campus protests: Ohio State's Class of 2024 is prepared for anything

More than 12,000 graduates are set to receive their diplomas on Sunday during the ceremony at Ohio Stadium.

Here's everything you need to know about commencement:

What time is Ohio State's graduation?

The ceremony officially begins at noon, but Ohio Stadium will open to guests at 10 a.m.

Commencement typically lasts between two-and-a-half to three hours.

Where can I watch the Ohio State Spring Commencement 2024?

The university is providing a livestream for guests, families and the curious who cannot attend in person. You can find the live broadcast on the OSU Spring Commencement 2024 webpage or by using the player embedded below.

How many guests are graduates allowed to have?

There are no restrictions on the number of guests graduates are allowed to have inside Ohio Stadium. Tickets are not required for guests.

Will there be security?

Ohio State said "heightened security measures will be in effect throughout commencement ceremonies and events" to ensure guest and graduates' safety.

Guests are asked to enter through specific gates at Ohio Stadium to get into the ceremony. They are:

• Gates 7, 9, 11, 13, 23 and 25 on the West side;
• Gates 8, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 on the East side.

Security measures are similar to attending an Ohio State football game. All items and persons entering the stadium are subject to security screening and inspection via a walk through metal detector and/or a hand wand metal detector.

Prohibited items include:

• Bags of any type larger than 5-by-8-by-1 inches
• Noisemaking devices
• Mace, pepper spray, aerosol cans or similar substances
• Banners or signs
• Sticks or poles
• Weapons or items that mimic weapons including, but not limited to: lighters, matches, firearms (including Concealed Carry Weapon permit holders), fireworks, pocket knives, knives, spiked bracelets, brass knuckles, martial arts weapons, stun guns, squirt guns, super soakers, rope and chains

Guests who need to bring a medical bag should enter through the Press Entrance on the west side of the stadium or the Band Entrance on the east side of the stadium.

Where should I park?

With an estimated 60,000 people attending commencement on Sunday, mixed with construction on Cannon Drive , folks should expect heavy traffic around Ohio Stadium and on campus.

Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Sisson Hall lots and any of the permit zones around Ag Campus, the Schottenstein Center, or the student residence halls. No permit is required. The Arps, Ohio Union, Neil Avenue and Lane Avenue garages will be available at no charge.

Disability parking  is located in the East Stadium lot on a first-come, first-served basis.

Parking garages are likely to fill up fast, so its encouraged that guests use the West Campus parking lots and take a complimentary shuttle bus to the stadium.

Shuttle buses  will run from West Campus parking lots to the Coffey Road fields beginning at 9:00 a.m. until one hour after the ceremony. The Coffey Road fields are approximately a half-mile or a 10-minute walk, from Ohio Stadium.

Planning to Uber? Guests arriving by a ride-share service  should be dropped off at the Schottenstein Center.  Pickup after the ceremony will be at Neil Avenue and 19th Avenue.

What will Ohio State do if it rains during graduation?

Weather is looking a bit spotty for commencement on Sunday.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington is forecasting a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., a chance of showers between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m. with partly sunny skies a high near 79 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Commencement will only be canceled if the ceremony cannot be held in Ohio Stadium due to inclement weather. That's because no indoor facility on campus can accommodate the graduating class and 60,000 guests.

If it is raining or rain is forecast on commencement day, graduates and guests should come prepared with appropriate rain gear. Ponchos, raincoats and something to cover wet bleachers are encouraged. Umbrellas are permitted in Ohio Stadium, but using them during the ceremony is discouraged.

Who is giving the commencement speech?

Chris Pan — a social entrepreneur, musician and inspirational speaker — will be the commencement speaker.

Pan, a 1999 Ohio State graduate, worked for PepsiCo and Facebook before starting his own company, MyIntent. "MyIntent makes bracelets with a customer-chosen word that helps the wearer remember to live intentionally," according to the university.

Pan’s umbrella organization SpiritLab promotes spiritual health and growth through experimentation.

“Chris Pan is an incredible example of taking everything you gain at Ohio State and applying it to find solutions that improve the world after graduation,” said Ohio State President Ted Carter. “As we celebrate commencement, I am confident Chris will inspire our graduates to make their own impact as they begin their journey as lifelong Buckeyes.”

Pan released a draft of his commencement speech to his social media accounts Sunday and asked for feedback.

A draft of the speech shows that he plans to invite everyone to sing parts of “What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes and “This Little Light of Mine," and he plans to take his shirt off at one point.

After the musical numbers, Pan transitions to talking about the Hamas-Israel war in Gaza and how to address conflict resolution.

"What I learned is that there is so much pain and trauma in both communities. Pain causes hate and violence. Hurt people hurt people. Healed people help people," according to his draft speech. "When we heal ourselves, we heal the world. World peace starts with inner peace."

Sheridan Hendrix is a higher education reporter for The Columbus Dispatch. Sign up for Extra Credit, her education newsletter,  here .

[email protected]

@sheridan120