What is a doctorate degree?
A doctorate degree is a considerably advanced level of academic achievement and a sign that you have acquired expertise in your field of study. An undergraduate degree is a fundamental step towards demonstrating and ability to think outside the box and thus a prerequisite for most white collar jobs. A graduate degree, such as a master’s, that does not focus on research and independent study is meant to enhance professional skills and improve marketability. But a doctorate is a multi-year commitment to original research with the objective of making a contribution to an academic field. It requires endurance and perseverance and is thus only pursued by those who are truly dedicated to one field of study.
Why pursue an online doctorate degree?
nline doctorate degrees have become a viable option off late. Doctoral students usually devote the first few years of study to additional coursework that will enhance their ability to complete research in their area of interest. This can be completed in a similar manner to online coursework for undergraduate degrees. The difference at the doctoral level is that classes tend to be smaller and thus instructors are able to devote more individual attention to their students. This is critical since doctoral candidates require more feedback about their performance in preparation for their careers as researchers and professors. This increased interaction is also present at the thesis writing level. An online system makes it very convenient to share manuscripts and obtain feedback directly from instructors.
An online doctorate degree is also attractive because the attrition rate within doctoral students tends to be quite high. Many students who pursue doctoral degrees in conventional brick and mortar universities withdraw from programs because they change their minds or lose interest. Online doctoral degrees allow you to hedge your risks. If you decide you are no longer interested in completing the program, you will not invest as much time and effort in the program when doing it online compared to if you were doing it in person. The chance to manage your doctoral studies within a flexible schedule also increases the likelihood of you staying in the program and completing it.
Career opportunities with doctoral degrees
Doctoral degrees are pursued out of a strong interest for a field of study and a general interest in teaching and research. But that does not mean that doctoral candidates do not have a variety of respectable career options. Most doctoral degrees can possibly lead to teaching positions as either full or part-time faculty and these are quite stable and long-term careers. There are also potentially a number of opportunities to generate additional income through books and speaker engagements. As an expert in your field, it is also quite likely that you will be called upon to testify in cases or share your opinions. But the most coveted career-related aspect of a doctoral degree is the chance to become a consultant. Consulting allows you to provide your input to industries and institutions related to your area of interest. It is not only viable, but potentially satisfying on personal basis and thus a popular career option among those who have completed a doctorate degree.