Job Discussion Forums

[naturegirl321]

I can't beleive I'm writing this after I swore I would never study again. Two of my friends are doing their doctorate, one is going through USQ and the other through Uni of Liverpool, both are doing their EdDs. Three other colleagues are thinking about their doctorates as well.

I've seen the job adverts and it seems like more places are asking for doctorates. I've actually enjoyed the work I've had to do for my second MA as I think the courses are more up my alley and since I've written 18,000 plus words in two months I'm starting to thinkt hat I could do a 100,000 word dissertation if I chose the right topic

Anyways, I've heard mixed reviews. Some people say that it's not worth the time and money, while others do. I suppose I can see both sides and often on the job adverts, the difference between an MA and doctorate's salary is minimal, however, on the other hand, I'm sure you could get better jobs.

What do you think? Anyone who's doing or done a doctorate? Was it worth it? Anyone who's decided to definitely NOT do one? Why did you decide against it?

[Perilla]

Your age is important - the younger you are the more likely you'll get payback for your time and trouble. Remember you're looking at 2 or 3 years of f/t study.

But a serious consideration in the TEFL profession is this: there are relatively few openings that require a PhD. Unfortunately there are very few university faculties specialising in TEFL - university TEFL depts are usually just "English Centres" and mostly are just looking for teachers, not research professors.

If you're going to do it, make sure you do something that offers the possibility of side-stepping into the mainstream faculties, eg. linguistics.

I have a friend in the UK with a PhD but who left it too late in his career to get a high end uni job. Believe it or not he often doesn't include it on his CV because he thinks it scares some employers away eg secondary schools, where even the principal probably doesn't have one.

[tttompatz]

I'm only ABD and not PhD but to quickly answer your question, "Was it worth it?" the short answer is yes and no.

From a personal development standpoint I am happy that I did it.
From a professional position it was not worth it (if you are strictly looking at the cost/benefit analysis).

I do NOT include it on my resume - there has never been any need to.

.

[naturegirl321]

Right, I figured I'd have two kids and then start a little later, so I won't be that old. I've actually seen a lot of jobs at unis here that dn't require them,but give you more pay. I've seen a couple of jobs that actually require doctorates.

[sojourner]

Whether it is "worthwhile" doing a PhD (aside from reasons of personal satisfaction), would depend v.much on your career aspirations.


If you like the language school scene, then it might be a waste of time. Someone has mentioned that having a PhD and focusing on language school jobs would probably put you at a disadvantage ! A language school boss might not want to have someone on the staff who is much higher qualified than he/she - also, some might regard a PhD holder as "being too theoretical", not "having the common touch", etc, as far as relating to students' language learning needs. Also, some of one's colleagues might feel a bit intimidated by having a PhD holder on the staff - whilst others might either think that the holder is a "loser" who can't get a better job; or, possibly, that the person is a bs artist/poser who probably doesn't even possess a "real" PhD !

If you consider that the language school scene to be your forte, you might be better off considering doing a DELTA (or the Trinity equivalent). Holding a M.Appl.Ling , along with something a bit more practically-oriented such as DELTA, would probably put you in the running for DOS positions in the top-range language schools.

Rather than "put all your eggs into one basket", such as working on a PhD, you mant also want to consider enrolling in a couple of extra Masters programmes. eg, a M.Ed (such as in Adult Learning/Teaching), or/and even an MBA. With an MBA, you would not only be amply qualified to teach something like Business English, but also Management, as is the case with some FT jobs in Chinese unis. Also having a M.Appl.Ling. AND an MBA would probably put you in the running for EAP jobs in unis (eg preparing Business Studies graduates who want to undergo postgraduate studies in the US/CAN/UK/AUST, etc.


NG, I recall some years ago reading that you were contemplating enrolling in a PGCE/Dip.Ed. programme. Having such a qualification would, I feel, by of more use to finding a well-paid job than merely holding a PhD - I'm thinking of those well-paid jobs in international schools as well as with HK's NET programme. Of course, with the top-range international schools one also needs to have had at least two years exp. in schools in his/her home country, as well as holding a PGCE. But, I'd imagine, that without such exp, the PGCE would probably still help one to get a job in the 2nd level international schools - not as well paid as what one would expect in the "top" schools, but still better than what language schools usually pay !


Peter

[naturegirl321]

[rayman]

I have a PGCE and a MEd and thinking of a Doctorate.

If you're Australian, are you aware the government currently provides full scholarships for all Australian citizens enrolling in a EdD? Worth considering as it won't last forever.

A PGCE and phd will normally place you on top of the pack for top tier international schools. With experience this can get you a package of over US$100 000/year plus your 3 months holidays.

Naturally, it will also open the door for working at universities in your home country.

The personal rewards are probably much higher than the financial ones though.

If you are having difficulty finding a single area of research to focus on for up to 6 years (part time) of your life, some Australian universities offer flexible research options. This includes submitting a research portfolio consisting of multiple smaller research projects. Much better suited if you also plan to move around to different countries during this time.

If I take on a doctorate it will be in a field of research that could open doors outside of teaching, such as government aid and development work. Just my 2c.

[naturegirl321]