Rowe N. The Realities of Completing a PhD: How to Plan for Success

New York: Routledge, 2021. — 100 p.The Realities of Completing a PhD gives a balanced and evidence-based view of the realities of PhD life. Full of practical tips and including a checklist to complete before sending an application, the book helps prospective PhD students prepare for the realities of taking on a PhD from an informed basis and offers guidance on submitting a well-planned application.
This is the first book of its kind to bring together a range of international data that helps to paint a more balanced picture of the PhD process. The book outlines different types of PhD, how to select a topic for a PhD, how to write a robust research proposal and application, and the realities of PhD study in relation to student wellbeing, social commitments and employment prospects. By considering the issues raised in this book, students are less likely to be overwhelmed by the PhD process, and better equipped to complete their award.
The book will be invaluable for potential doctoral students as well as those already embarking on a PhD. It will also enable university mentors and supervisors to consider how the application phase is key to managing student expectations, and how they can further promote a healthy and productive PhD experience.Half Title
Series Page
Title Page
Copyright Page
DedicationList of illustrationsAims of this book
Source data and PhD terminology
The realities of doing a PhD: Issues affecting student dropout, completion, employment and wellbeing
What is a PhD and why do one?
Why do a PhD?
How skilled and ‘expert’ do I have to be before I apply?
Good reasons to do a PhD
Bad motivations for doing a PhD
Seeing a PhD as a marker of how ‘smart’ you are
Getting a PhD because you want to be recognized or respected
Doing a PhD because somebody else did or wishes they had
Doing a PhD for short-term personal gain
Common misconceptions about doing a PhD: Completion, value and employment potential
It takes 3 years to get a PhD
Having a PhD will be seen as a unique achievement
A PhD will help you get a good job
Emotions and wellbeing during a PhD
That said …
Assessing your own situation to do a PhD: Time, social commitments, finance and scholarships, international study, special needs
Part-time or full-time?
Family and social commitments
The ‘F’ word
Financial issues
Scholarships
International study
Culture shock
Money and financial family commitments
Special needs
Preparing your PhD application
Selecting your research topic and choosing a university/supervisor
Selecting your field of study/research
Do your research!
What your research aims to do
How to choose the right school/university
Expertise and reputation
Finding the right supervisor or research group
The PhD application process
Understanding qualifying and admission requirements
Eligibility
Selecting your faculty and doctoral programme
Choosing the degree you wish to study for
Preparing your application documents
Common application details
Writing a research proposal
Components of a research proposal
Background and topicality of the study
Research topic and research questions
Research design and methods
Implications and contribution to knowledgeOther requirements
Submitting your application
Planning for study life
PhD study requirements
Student life requirements
The PhD process
What type of PhD thesis should you write?
PhD by monograph thesisKey featuresMain components
Drawbacks
PhD by publication
Publication types
Pros and cons
PhD by prior publication/portfolio
Originality and academic integrity
Academic offences
Being an independent learner, supervision and support
Finding your own resources and information
Using the web
Books and journal articles
Supervision
What to do when conflicts arise
Changing your supervisor
Ending on a positive note!
What to do now?
Your PhD checklist
References and resources