Monday 12 January 2015

Things to Consider before Pursuing Your Double PhD Program

There are several research scholars and professionals who are always interested in carrying forward their previous research work in a new direction or want to gain a double PhD with a fresh topic. They always remain keen on exploring the way they can add more knowledge to their academic field. While there may be hundreds of reasons behind pursuing a double PhD program, there are certain important considerations to be taken into account before an individual goes in this program. Check out some of the factors that should be understood before starting your double PhD.

Learn from others’ experiences

Before initiating a double PhD program, you should talk to some fellows or colleagues who have already done it. If you wish to gain benefits from this program, then you should really check the scope of undergoing such hard efforts. Learn from the experiences of other researchers and judge whether you would be able to devote the required time and efforts to your project. If you are into a teaching profession, then this may be a helpful degree to add to your career prospects. In case you are also planning to do some other activities along with this program, it is essential for you to give a second thought. When you learn about the experiences of your senior colleagues or researchers, it will become easier for you to take the right decision.

Learn the program’s importance

It is not very wise to jump into a pool just because others are doing the same. If your friend is planning to do a double PhD, it does not mean that you also need to give yourself an added tag without learning about the importance of that program. As you are already aware of your inputs required for a PhD program, you should take the decision after considering your other personal and professional priorities. While you may have done your previous study without facing any additional burden, it may not be the same situation every time. Thus, it is very important that you pursue this program with the same dedication that you showed previously.

Take the required break

If you have been pursuing studies for a long time now, it is better to take a refreshing break before you even think about starting your double PhD. Undergoing this program requires you to be fully prepared physically and mentally. There is much stress while pursuing research at this level. Thus, it is critical for you to have a very positive mindset before starting something of this level. You should also check if you are prepared to live in an academic environment for another few years. Rather than burning out at a later stage, it is better to gain a perspective by taking a sufficient break for some time.

Check your financial condition

Even if you are already working and preparing to pursue your research along with your profession, it is wise to keep a check on your financial condition and evaluate how you would manage it throughout your stud years. If you can afford to take up a double PhD program, then you should definitely start it.

See your current passion

Pursuing a double PhD does not mean that you have to carry forward your previous research topics in newer areas. You should see your current passion and decide about the topic that you want to take up in your fresh program. Conduct research on something that is of value now. It should be of latest interest so you may contribute significantly to your academic field.

Manage your time better

While conducting research at this level, you will need to manage your time in a far better manner. There may be several personal and career-related responsibilities that cannot ignore. See that you should have ample time to devote to all. You should be able to manage your time well among all these academic and non-academic activities.

Seek professional support

While you may not have taken the help of a professional research services provider in your previous course, it does not mean that you need to stick to that plan. If you are finding it hard at any time to carry on your Double PhD, then do not hesitate to avail professional services. This will only help you in meeting your timelines and targets in a comfortable manner.

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