Would you like to be among the 1.4% of Americans who hold a doctorate? Despite this small percentage, the number of Americans awarded doctorate degrees is on the rise. More people are recognizing the value of this prestigious degree. 

As a working professional, achieving a doctoral degree can bring fulfillment and help you achieve your career goals. While the path for each doctoral candidate is unique, this guide will provide an overview of the process. 

Learn how long it takes to get a doctorate and how best to approach this goal as a working professional. 

Setting Goals for Success 

Before you begin pursuing a doctorate, consider your goals and motivations. How you approach your doctorate depends on your motives. 

Some common reasons for seeking a doctorate include:

  • Career advancement. Moving to the next level in your career may require a doctoral degree. Many people in doctoral programs hope to get ahead in academia. However, demand is growing for doctoral degrees in fields such as engineering, physical sciences, business, and industry. 
  • Personal fulfillment. Obtaining your doctorate is a personal achievement that can be very satisfying.  
  • Passion in the field. A lifelong love of learning, curiosity, and interest in the field may be enough motivation to achieve this prestigious degree. 
  • Breaking into a new role or industry. Perhaps you’re hoping to work in an adjacent field or step into a more senior role that requires additional expertise. A doctorate can help you with these career goals. 

Based on your motivations, set clear goals. Consider specifics such as the focus of your doctorate, how long it will take to get your doctorate, financial commitments, and outcomes. This way, as you explore doctoral programs, you can seek out and choose one that aligns best with your goals. 

For example, if your goal is career advancement, consider seeking a mentor who currently holds your ideal position. Ask them for advice about selecting a doctoral program and how this degree could help you. 

How Long Does it Take to Get a Doctorate? Understanding the Time Commitment

Many hopeful candidates wonder “How many years is a doctorate degree?” According to the National Science Foundation, on average, candidates take between 6 and 11 years to complete a doctorate. 

The number of years it takes depends on the field. Science and math candidates tend to complete their programs in about 6 years while candidates focusing on social sciences, humanities, and education take longer. 

Doctoral program requirements vary greatly depending on the field and university program. Doctoral programs include a major research component. 

Candidates must perform extensive research, write a dissertation, and defend their thesis during an oral exam. Some programs may also include coursework. Additionally, candidates typically work closely with an advisor who oversees their research and thesis. 

Types of Doctoral Programs and How Long They Take to Complete

How long it takes to get your doctorate largely depends on the type of program. Some common programs include:

  • PhD: This acronym stands for “Doctor of Philosophy.” However, today, a PhD may refer to the highest attainable academic degree in many different fields such as engineering, math, and more. Many programs offer a range of advanced degree options based on your goals. For example, you can get a PhD in engineering with a focus on academia. However, an EngD degree focuses on more practical applications for professional engineers. 
  • Ed.D: A Doctor of Education is a popular choice for educators in leadership and administrative roles. 
  • DBA: A Doctor of Business Administration is ideal for business professionals in leadership, management, and executive roles. 

How long it takes to get your doctorate also varies based on your enrollment preferences. Full-time doctoral candidates can complete their programs faster than part-time candidates. Part-time enrollment is popular for PhD candidates. Approximately 43% of graduate students are enrolled part-time. 

Additionally, online PhD programs are now available. An online option tends to offer more flexibility and can make it much easier to earn a degree at an out-of-state university. 

Balancing Work and Life as a Doctoral Candidate

Between work, personal responsibilities, and studies, a doctoral program requires a lot of dedication. So, how hard is it to get a doctorate as a working professional?

Achieving this goal is difficult, but not impossible. Completing a degree while working requires coordination and planning. When I was completing coursework while working full-time, I made sure to schedule time for my studies. Planning for this time also included arranging for childcare so that I could focus on assignments. 

Also, take advantage of your advisor and the program’s resources. Many colleges and universities offer free counseling to students, including those in doctoral programs. Additionally, you can reach out to your advisor for advice on pacing your research or preparing for your defense. 

Financial Considerations and Funding Options

Many doctoral candidates are working professionals. However, others obtain funding so they can focus exclusively on their studies. Fully funded programs often provide doctoral candidates with a tuition scholarship as well as a stipend for living expenses. Fellowship programs also provide financial support for PhD candidates. 

Other avenues for financial support include student loans, employer sponsorships, and grants. Many universities also hire doctoral students as teacher’s assistants or research assistants. In some of these cases, the institution may also reduce or waive tuition. 

Leveraging Employer Support

Before enrolling in a doctoral program, check with your employer to see if they offer tuition reimbursement or academic leave options. This is a common practice in research-focused industries such as laboratories. Universities themselves may also support employees with tuition assistance or waivers so candidates can achieve their doctorate degrees. 

Even if you’re unaware of an employer program, ask your HR department or superior about how they might support you as a doctoral candidate. Many employers are willing to provide support in non-financial ways. A flexible schedule or time off are a few ways your employer can help.

When speaking with your employer, be sure to highlight how your new skills and knowledge will support your organization. 

The Long-Term Benefits of a Doctorate

Holding a doctorate can bring many different benefits, including financial. Studies show that graduate degree holders earn 38.3% more than those who hold a bachelor’s degree in the same field. 

Additionally, a doctorate can help open the door to higher-level positions in your field. Leadership positions, teaching roles, consulting, and industry experts often hold a PhD. On a personal note, a doctoral degree can help position you as an expert in your field. 

Obtaining Your Doctorate

Obtaining a doctorate requires short-term sacrifices and hard work for long-term gains in earning potential, career advancement, and recognition in your field. 

Are you ready to explore your options? Take this quiz to discover which field of study best matches your experiences and goals. Then, you’ll see the best program matches for obtaining your doctorate.