Pursuing a doctorate degree is one of the most ambitious academic and career moves you can make. It requires a clear vision, a substantial time commitment, and often, a willingness to juggle work, personal life, and long hours of studying. 

For those who see it through, the rewards can be transformative, from new career paths to thought leadership in your field. 

If you are wondering whether to take this step, understanding what lies ahead can help you decide.

Consider Your Career Goals

The first question to answer is whether a doctorate will meaningfully advance your career or personal objectives. 

Doctorate programs aren’t just for future professors, though. Many educators, researchers, health care professionals, and executives use this credential to reach leadership positions, transition into specialized roles, or contribute original research to their industries by pursuing a PhD.

  • In academia, a doctorate can open doors to tenure-track positions and grant-funded research projects. 
  • In health care and clinical fields, it may lead to advanced practice roles, policy influence, or cutting-edge research opportunities. 
  • For executives or industry specialists, it can strengthen credentials for high-level leadership or consulting work.

Consider whether your end goal justifies the investment of several years of rigorous study and potentially significant tuition costs. For example, as a journalist, a doctorate would likely add little to my career path unless I planned to move into academia, lead a journalism school, or specialize in high-level research. (I don't plan to do any of that!)

Increased salary potential is often a draw, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing that academic doctorate degrees are the second-highest paying as of May 2025. Professional degrees like an MD, JD, or PharmD pay slightly more.

At the same time, equally important are opportunities for influence, innovation, and job stability. If your career path values expertise, specialized research, and high-level credentials, a doctorate may be worth the effort.

Research Program Requirements

Not all doctorate programs are structured the same, so start by understanding the baseline requirements for admission. Some fields require a master’s degree first, while others allow entry with only a bachelor’s degree. The difference can affect both the length of your studies and the depth of your initial coursework.

Most programs expect:

  • A strong academic record, such as a competitive GPA, relevant coursework, and professional experience in your chosen field. 
  • Letters of recommendation help. Gather those during your undergraduate studies as you go. Also, consider a statement of purpose that clearly explains your academic interests and career goals.
  • Depending on the school and discipline, standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT may still be required, though some programs have dropped these in favor of holistic evaluations.

Another key decision is whether to pursue an online doctorate, an in-person program, or a hybrid format. Online options may offer flexibility for working professionals, but some fields require in-person participation. 

Review each program’s structure and take a good look at how it matches your lifestyle and learning needs.

Estimate the Time Commitment

One of the most common questions is, “How many years is a doctorate degree?” The answer depends on the field, program design, and your pace of study. Most doctoral programs take between three and seven years.

Full-time students may finish sooner, while part-time students may take longer. At the same time, you have to be realistic about work and family obligations before committing to full-time education. 

The journey usually begins with intensive coursework to deepen your expertise. Comprehensive exams or qualifying assessments confirm mastery of core concepts. The final stage is your dissertation, research project, or equivalent capstone, which can take years of independent work, writing, and revisions. Some, like my partner, would add "blood, sweat, and tears" to that sentence.

If you're considering a doctorate vs. PhD, know that a Doctor of Philosophy generally centers on producing original scholarly research, while a professional doctorate applies advanced knowledge to practical, real-world challenges. These differences can affect both the structure and duration of the program.

Apply Strategically

Knowing how to get a doctorate degree isn't just about finding a place where you're application is accepted. It's about getting into the right program for your goals. 

  • Accreditation matters. A degree from a well-regarded, properly accredited institution carries more weight with employers, professional associations, and licensing boards.
  • Reputation and faculty expertise should also factor into your decision. The right mentorship can be one of the most valuable parts of the program.
  • Funding is another critical consideration. Doctorate programs can be costly, but many offer scholarships, research or teaching assistantships, or stipends.

If you are currently employed, check whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement. Combining multiple funding sources can make your studies more affordable and reduce the need for loans.

What to Expect During the Program

A doctorate program demands both academic rigor and personal resilience. One of my friends recently got her doctorate, and on the night we planned to celebrate, she just wanted to sleep through the night, knowing all her hard work had paid off. 

The coursework phase builds specialized knowledge, often at a pace that challenges even experienced professionals. Beyond the classroom, you will work closely with faculty mentors who guide your research and provide feedback on your ideas.

The dissertation or final research project requires independence, self-motivation, and the ability to manage long-term projects. It is common to face obstacles, from research setbacks to time management challenges. 

Many working adults in doctoral programs rely on structured schedules, dedicated study times, and support networks to stay on track.

Are You Ready to Pursue a Doctorate Degree?

Earning a doctorate is not a quick or easy path, but for the right person, it can be deeply rewarding. Whether you want to lead in academia, shape policy, advance clinical practice, or become a sought-after industry expert, the journey is as important as the destination. 

If you are ready to explore whether a doctorate is the right move for you, take the next step.

Take the career quiz to see how a doctorate could fit into your future, whether you're in business, education, health care, or STEM fields.