English

The Five W’s (and an H) of Deciding on a PhD Program

Who?

Future Dr. You

WHY?

This is in all capitals because it is the most important question. Why do you want a PhD? Phd programs are no joke, and it affects not only your life but the lives and finances of all those around you. Even if you successfully complete the degree, you may not be able to find a tenure-track position right away (or ever). You have to like all (or most) of the aspects of being a professor: teaching, research, and service. If you love teaching but hate doing academic research, this may not be the path for you. And, at least in the field of English, there aren’t many jobs where you can purely research and ignore teaching.

What?

What kind of job do you want to have? In what department? What kind of degree do you need to get what you want?

When?

Do you have the financial resources to get a PhD? Would it be best to wait a couple of years and save money? What about your family life? Is it a good time for you to devote yourself to your education?

Where?

Are you tied to this area? This will SEVERELY LIMIT your ability to get a PhD. If not, what programs do what you want? What theoretical or critical vantage points matter to you, and do the schools you are considering support these? Who are the major figures in your field? Where could you get access to the scholarly resources you need? Where have you always wanted to live?

How?

Application procedures (including GREs, reference letters, and essays) are as critical as your grades at the MA level. Strong Statements of Purpose/Personal Statements/Letters of Intent are critical, as is your writing sample.

You will need to approach applying to PhD programs, the same way you would a large research project. You need to give yourself time to gather materials, ask for letters (and put together information for your writers), draft your materials and revise them accordingly. Financial aid is available, but limited: research how to get it and consider only applying to a program that will give you an assistantship. You need to support yourself and also to gain professional experience.

You should begin the process of researching programs the summer before you intend to apply. Make a spreadsheet or chart of programs, particulars, and due dates. Many programs will have application deadlines in Dec or January, though some may be in November or even October. Some have rolling admissions. Begin gathering your materials, asking for letters, and working on your writing early, so when the deadlines come up, your materials are ready and polished.