Making the decision to do doctoral research

If you haven’t done so already, here are some things that you probably should consider as part of deciding whether to apply for a doctoral programme.

Identify the broad (or narrow) subject area that you would want to research. Are you really so interested in this subject that you want to study a specific area within it at great depth?
Try to think through how doctoral research would fit into a possible and realistic long-term career plan for you personally, whether that is an academic direction or another potential career path
Talk to current and recent researchers to learn more about what it is actually like to undertake a research degree and the different impacts it has on their lives
Make sure you are certain that you could fit this into your life. Is it the best time, bearing in mind anyother commitments?
Think about the financial aspects. Even if you are a realistic prospect to compete for and secure funding for a doctoral programme, would such funding sustain you (and any dependants) so that you could continue to live reasonably comfortably?
Discuss this with your friends and family - explain what you are thinking and seek some feedback
Where in the world do you want to pursue this?

If you’ve thought about all these things and want to apply for a UK doctorate, see our advice on applications and funding.