The Realities of Completing a PhD How to Plan for Success Routledge Research in Education Series

The Realities of Completing a PhD gives a balanced and evidence-based view of the realities of PhD life. Full of practical tips and including a checklist to complete before sending an application, the book helps prospective PhD students prepare for the realities of taking on a PhD from an informed basis and offers guidance on submitting a well-planned application.

This is the first book of its kind to bring together a range of international data that helps to paint a more balanced picture of the PhD process. The book outlines different types of PhD, how to select a topic for a PhD, how to write a robust research proposal and application, and the realities of PhD study in relation to student wellbeing, social commitments and employment prospects. By considering the issues raised in this book, students are less likely to be overwhelmed by the PhD process, and better equipped to complete their award.

The book will be invaluable for potential doctoral students as well as those already embarking on a PhD. It will also enable university mentors and supervisors to consider how the application phase is key to managing student expectations, and how they can further promote a healthy and productive PhD experience.

Introduction

Glossary

Part 1: The realities of doing a PhD: issues affecting student dropout, completion, employment and wellbeing

1. What is a PhD and why do one?

2. Common misconceptions about doing a PhD: completion, value and employment potential

3. Emotions and wellbeing during a PhD

4. Assessing your own situation to do a PhD: time, social commitments, finance and scholarships, international study, special needs

Part 2: Preparing your PhD application

5. Selecting your research topic and choosing a university/supervisor

6. The PhD application process

7. Writing a research proposal

8. Planning for study life

9. Being an independent learner, supervision and support

Your PhD checklist

References and Resources

Nicholas Rowe is a trans-disciplinary educationalist, with interests in scientific communication and academic/professional development. A dual fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy and the Society for Education and Training, he worked as a full-time lecturer in the UK and did his PhD in education in Finland.