Finding the Best PhD ProgramThrough Research

How do you find the best PhD program for you?  It’s an enormously important task.  Involving yourself in PhD study is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and one of the largest investments in your future and personal and professional growth you’ll ever make.  PhD programs have a very low rate of completion, and those who drop out often cite poor decision making in the early stages of their doctoral educational pursuits as the reason.  If you are serious about getting your PhD, making wise decisions now–before you even begin applying–is of critical importance.

Why is the particular program you choose so important?

PhD study is unlike other academic programs in many ways.  For one thing, you’ll be working almost entirely independently; the help you do receive will come mostly from your advisor.  You will work very, very closely with this advisor throughout the 5-7 years it takes to complete your PhD, assisting him or her with his or her own research, as well as making use of your advisor’s assistance with your own.

The best PhD program for you will be one which offers you a dynamic relationship with a faculty member who shares your vision, can challenge you, and has the knowledge, experience, and expertise in your field of study so that you get the  best PhD program experience possible.

How to Research PhD Programs

Concentrate on learning about both the faculty and the alumni for any particular program.  Schedule interviews with faculty before applying if possible.  Thanks to the internet, it’s often possible to exchange emails or chat with alumni members too.  Don’t rely only on college promotional materials to make your decision.

When checking into the faculty, look at their resumes, and what sorts of articles and research they’ve had published.  Do they share your philosophies?  Your interests?  These things are important when looking for the best PhD program for your goals.