Short for a Doctor of Philosophy, a PhD is a postgraduate degree and is the highest level of academic achievement you can receive. A PhD requires the submission of a thesis or dissertation. This is comprised of extensive and original research focused on a specific area within a field of your choice.

This page will look at what’s involved in a PhD and where you can study for one. We’ll also examine the opportunities that having a Doctoral Degree can present and the skills you will develop along the way.

What Does a PhD Involve?

Typically taking three to four years of full-time study to complete (or five to six years part-time), a PhD involves numerous stages and activities including:

  • Completing a literature review of your chosen field
  • Carrying out original and in-depth research
  • Collecting and writing up your results in the form of a thesis, typically around 80,000 words
  • Defending your thesis in an oral exam

During a PhD, the university will assign students a supervisor to provide support from start to finish. Their role will be to read drafts, discuss your work and provide advice and expertise within your broader academic field.

It is important to remember that although they can provide advice and guidance, your supervisor isn’t a teacher. You will be the one conducting your own learning through your research.

Where Can You Do a PhD?

Just like undergraduate and master’s degrees, you can apply to do a Doctoral Degree at any university across the UK provided they’re running the course you’re looking for. As expected, there may be specific grade requirements needed to study for a PhD at a certain institution. For example, this could be in relation to your master’s degree grade. Or you may need a minimum of a 2:1 in a bachelor’s degree relevant to your proposed PhD subject.

When choosing where to study, many students research the reputation, facilities, course structure, employer connections and academic support available at each university.

Another influential factor in deciding where to do your Doctoral Degree may be the tutors and academic staff at each institution. You’ll be appointed a supervisor, so it would be beneficial to research how recognised the staff are in their academic field. Consider their published work and whether they have a lot of industry experience. Studying your PhD at a university with staff who have a lot of knowledge and expertise in your chosen field will greatly benefit your learning.

What Opportunities Does a PhD Provide?

The most natural progression following a PhD is usually a transition into an academic role. However, it’s important to acknowledge the line doesn’t stop there. There are a whole host of opportunities that exist outside of teaching and education.

Six months after graduating, 28.9% are in science professions, 9.1% in legal, social and welfare, 7% in business HR and finance, and 7.8% in other associate or technician positions. Only 23.1% of graduates find themselves in educational professions. This shows that the majority of PhD graduates go on to work in non-academic professions.

Skills Developed During a PhD

Whichever career path you decide to take following your Doctoral Degree, it’s important to demonstrate to employers how the skills you’ve learnt from an academic environment can translate into the world of work. Examples of common transferable skills from a PhD include:

Analysis and Problem Solving

Due to the nature of a PhD, you’ll gain strong analysis and problem-solving skills. You will be able to design, plan and carry out research, and identify and solve problems. On top of that, you’ll be able to make sense of large amounts of information and form independent conclusions.

Leadership Skills

Conducting research will have required you to run several different meetings and/or group discussions. During these, you will have needed to explain concepts and theories to others and possibly navigate unfamiliar environments.

Project Management

Essentially a PhD is one huge project. Within this one big project, you will have had several smaller projects, all requiring concise management and attention to ensure completion. You’ll have learnt how to prioritise work, set goals and be flexible with your workload.

Written and Verbal Communication

Your writing skills will have been put to the test through your thesis and dissertation. As well as this, you’ll have prepared any materials or information for focus and discussion groups. In such meetings and groups, you also developed your verbal skills by communicating with both small and large groups of people throughout the duration of your PhD.

Doctoral Degree (PhD): Conclusion

For those who want to achieve the highest academic qualification that exists, a PhD is the way to go. There are plenty of universities across the UK and the world where you can study. Moreover, having a PhD will provide you with a whole host of opportunities once you graduate.

For more information on beginning your PhD journey, head on over to our dedicated page on Starting your PhD. You can also learn more about the Benefits of studying a postgraduate degree and What you can do after you’ve completed it.

When you’re ready to begin your job search, be sure to check out Developing a Student’s PhD graduate jobs board for all the latest opportunities in your area. Contact us if you have any questions and don’t miss a thing from us by signing up for our newsletter below.