How to get a PhD in 5 easy steps (UK)

TL;DR

This video provides a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a PhD, from acquiring the necessary degree to defending your research.

Transcript

a hierarchy of educational qualifications might look something a bit like this with elementary or primary school at the bottom stretching past degrees and undergraduates to graduates and PhD level now I'm currently studying for PhD in atmospheric physics and I thought it might be interesting to look at how you go from the bottom of this ladder to t... Read More

Key Insights

• 🔰 The journey to obtaining a PhD begins with completing an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.
• 👨‍🔬 Finding a supervisor or research project is crucial, with differences between humanities and sciences.
• 💦 Original research is a requirement, where individuals contribute new knowledge or build upon existing work.
• 👨‍🔬 Writing a comprehensive thesis, documenting the research, is an essential aspect of a PhD.
• 🧑‍🎓 Defending the thesis in a viva voce examination showcases the student's understanding and ability to answer questions.
• 👨‍🔬 PhD viva voce examinations involve both internal and external examiners who evaluate the research.
• 😘 Failure rates for PhD viva voce examinations are extremely low, with minor or major corrections being more common outcomes.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the first step to obtaining a PhD?

The first step is acquiring an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, which typically takes three to four years of study.

Q: Can one go straight from an undergraduate degree to a PhD?

While it is possible, most individuals pursue a master's degree before entering a PhD program to further specialize in their field.

Q: How does finding a PhD supervisor differ between humanities and sciences?

In the sciences, individuals browse through project offerings and apply to universities that interest them, with a supervisor associated with the project. In the humanities, research funding is often required, and applicants devise their own research projects.

Q: What does performing original research entail?

Performing original research involves expanding upon existing knowledge, proposing new ideas, or challenging previous work by conducting experiments, analysis, or mathematical formulations.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The path to obtaining a PhD starts with completing an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.

• Finding a supervisor or a research project is crucial for pursuing a PhD, with variations between the humanities and sciences.

• Original research is a key requirement for a PhD, where one must expand on existing knowledge or propose new ideas.

• Writing a comprehensive thesis, documenting the research and findings, is essential to complete the PhD journey.

• Finally, defending the thesis in a viva voce examination solidifies one's achievement in obtaining a PhD.