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  • CAREER COLUMN
  • 13 January 2021

My 11 part-time jobs made me a better PhD student

  • Cassie Sims 0

Cassie Sims is a postdoc at the Max Planck Center for Next Generation Insect Chemical Ecology and Lund University in Sweden.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

I have had 11 part-time jobs between my final year of school and completing my PhD programme. These varied in scope, pay, fun and responsibility, but most fell into in hospitality, customer service or tutoring. I have waitressed in restaurants and cafes, supervised a student bar, sold smoked meats and cheeses and tutored younger students.

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-021-00089-w

This is an article from the Nature Careers Community, a place for Nature readers to share their professional experiences and advice. Guest posts are encouraged .

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A comprehensive guide to part-time PhDs

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Doing a PhD part-time can be an attractive option for many reasons. However, part-time PhDs are less common than full-time ones, and there tends to be a lack of information on this option. This guide to part-time PhDs answers the most common questions that prospective part-time PhD candidates have.

The difference between a part-time and a full-time PhD

How much work is a part-time phd, how long does it take to do a phd part-time, where is it possible to do a phd part-time, benefits of a part-time phd, disadvantages of a part-time phds, is it worth doing a part-time phd, skills necessary for completing a phd part-time, conditions for success in a part-time phd, online part-time phd programmes, ten questions to ask yourself before embarking on a part-time phd.

The main difference between a part-time and a full-time PhD is typically the amount of time that a student spends per week on PhD-related tasks. The typical length of a full-time work week is five 8-hour days, comprising 40 hours in total. In some countries, this includes breaks. Thus, 38-40 hours/week can generally be considered full-time employment.

A part-time PhD carries fewer hours per week than full-time employment.

Precise definitions of part-time work differ. While some consider part-time employment as anything less than 38 hours/week, the OECD for instance defines part-time workers as those who work less than 30 hours/week.

Some universities have minimum requirements for part-time PhDs, for example, a minimum of 20 hours/week. Others, however, are more flexible. They allow part-time PhD candidates to spend anything between a few hours to several days per week on their part-time PhD studies.

Coursework that is required in PhD programmes is generally adjusted to part-time candidates and stretched over a longer period. The same is true for certain deadlines and comprehensive exams if required.

The degree that is awarded upon successful completion of a part-time PhD is the same as those being awarded for completing full-time programmes.

Most degree certificates don’t even mention that a PhD was pursued on a part-time basis. There is no reason to worry that a part-time PhD degree may be perceived as worth less than a full-time one.

A part-time PhD requires pretty much the same amount of work as a full-time PhD. Part-time PhD programmes are spread out over a longer period, but the requirements in terms of credits and output ( a monograph or cumulative dissertation ) are usually the same.

Part-time PhD candidates are often highly aware of their time limitations. In turn, they may be better at utilizing their limited time during the week. For instance by minimizing procrastination, prioritizing tasks and making strategic decisions. However, this is difficult to generalise.

Part-time PhD students may be more inclined to work during evenings and weekends.

Other responsibilities during the ‘normal’ working hours result in less attention to PhD-related work. And sometimes, PhD work requires several hours of uninterrupted deep work.

In some cases, the lack of opportunities to focus on the PhD for a longer period can increase frustrations and stress levels. This is particularly true when part-time PhD students start together with a cohort of full-time PhD students and compare their progress with that of their full-time peers.

Ultimately, how much work a part-time PhD requires depends very much on a student’s research project, personality, efficiency, subjective perception of workload and stress, supervision, luck with experiments, and so on. This does not differ from a full-time PhD.

In most cases, a part-time PhD takes longer than a full-time PhD. A general rule of thumb is that the fewer hours someone spends on a PhD per week, the longer it takes to complete it.

The number of years that full-time PhD students take to complete a PhD varies. Some finish in three years. Others require four, five or more years. Thus, there is a huge variation in the time it takes to finish a PhD. The same is true for part-time PhDs.

There are also differences between universities. Some universities have a strict programme that takes, for instance, three years for full-time PhD students and six years for part-time PhD students.

Other universities adapt to the specific circumstances of individual PhD candidates. They may allow someone to finish a part-time PhD in three years as long as all requirements are met. But they may also be okay with a part-time candidate who spends a decade on his or her PhD studies.

Can you complete a part-time PhD programme? Yes, absolutely.

But due to the vast differences between universities as well as PhD programmes, it is essential to inform yourself properly before applying for a part-time PhD.

The regulations in terms of length of a part-time PhD have a major effect on a PhD trajectory, time planning, tuition fees if applicable, etcetera.

There are plenty of opportunities to do a PhD part-time, but the specific opportunities and arrangements depend very much on individual universities.

Some universities advertise specific part-time PhD programmes on their web pages. Or, with a little bit of digging, provide information online for those who are interested in part-time PhDs.

For other universities, it is difficult to find any information on part-time PhD programmes online. This does not always mean that there are no opportunities. Sometimes, it requires sending emails to the admissions office, or contacting a potential PhD supervisor directly to ask for part-time possibilities.

There are also differences in national contexts. In some countries, for instance, in Germany, part-time PhD studies are often the norm. In Germany, many paid positions exist that encompass 60% of a full-time equivalent: time during which a PhD student is required to work in a lab or assist a professor. In the remaining 40% of the time, which is unpaid, a PhD student is expected to work on a dissertation.

In some other countries, PhD students tend to be employed in the public sector, receive a salary and make pension contributions. In those cases, they tend to fall under the same regulations as the non-academic workforce. This can mean, for instance, that they have the right to change their contract to part-time, for instance in the case of care responsibilities.

There are many benefits to doing a PhD part-time. Some of the most common advantages are

  • More secure finances: Many full-time PhD students experience financial insecurities because PhD scholarships are often not enough to cover living expenses, or do not cover the whole PhD trajectory. Part-time PhD students often work next to their PhD studies which provide additional income and a layer of financial security.
  • Improved employability: This includes industry employability and employability in academia. Industry employability is enhanced if someone already gains substantial work experience outside academia, through working in a certain profession while doing a part-time PhD. Employability in academia is enhanced if someone already gains academic work experience (for example as a research assistant) and teaching experience (for example as a junior lecturer or teaching assistant) while doing a part-time PhD.
  • Flexibility: Doing a PhD part-time tends to provide increased flexibility. For instance, students who have care responsibilities are more likely to be able to combine their PhD studies with their other responsibilities on a part-time basis.
  • Efficiency: The advantage of many part-time PhDs is that they are very aware of their time limitations and force themselves to be strategic in their choices. Part-time PhD students also often benefit from existing work experience and tend to be a bit older than full-time students. Combined, they sometimes are more confident and struggle less with imposter syndrome. Since procrastination is essentially linked to a fear of failure, part-time PhD students on average may be more confident, suffer less from procrastination and are therefore able to work more efficiently.

There are also disadvantages and challenges in part-time PhDs. Some of the most common disadvantages of doing a PhD part-time are:

  • Difficulty to maintain a work-life balance: ‘Getting it all done’ is always challenging. Adding a part-time PhD to existing tasks, activities and responsibilities can negatively affect a person’s work-life balance. Part-time PhDs frequently require multi-tasking, which can interrupt the flow of work and lead to mistakes. Furthermore, evenings, weekends and holidays may be the only times when uninterrupted PhD work for several hours or days is possible. When part-time PhD students are not very good with boundary setting, they can easily feel overwhelmed and as if they can never take a break.
  • Tuition fees: While not all PhD students (regardless of whether full-time or part-time) have to pay tuition fees, many do. Tuition fees tend to be adjusted in part-time programmes. Nonetheless, paying tuition fees for several years can be a financial burden. In addition, part-time PhD students are not always eligible for all scholarships and funding opportunities.
  • Less supervision: Part-time PhD students often work even more independently than their full-time counterparts. Of course, the amount of supervision differs for full-time PhD students as well. However, a simple reason for less supervision is simply that part-time PhD students are not always physically present in a lab or department. They have less spontaneous interactions with their supervisors and other professors. It reduces the opportunities to ask a quick question or get feedback on a small issue. Part-time PhD students may be more reliant on more formal, scheduled meetings every few weeks or months.
  • Feelings of isolation: Part-time PhD students may feel disconnected and isolated due to a lot of independent work, less physical presence and opportunities to connect with colleagues and peers. Furthermore, part-time PhDs tend to be in the minority, as full-time PhDs are still more common. This means that part-time PhDs may feel misunderstood and have no one to share their unique experiences and challenges with.

Following your curiosities and researching a topic in-depth can be a wonderful thing.

Yet, the question of whether a PhD part-time is worth doing or not is difficult to answer. It depends on the unique situation and ambition of each person in question.

Some people embark on a PhD part-time to progress in their career. Some people hope for a financial reward after completing a PhD part-time. Some people intend to change careers and use a part-time PhD to start the process while still earning money in a different job. Some people look for a challenge and embark on a part-time PhD for self-fulfilment. Some people have no other option but to do a PhD part-time.

Every person has to decide for him- or herself whether it is worth it, sensible and feasible. The decision requires a lot of self-reflection, and financial and life planning.

The decision to do a part-time PhD should not be treated lightly.

Completing a PhD part-time requires several skills. These skills can be learnt. However, a complete lack of these skills at the start of a part-time PhD will make the trajectory much more challenging.

First of all, part-time PhDs benefit from a high degree of self-discipline.

Those who struggle to motivate themselves and to get the smallest task done without any external pressure, might not be the best candidates for part-time PhDs. Part-time PhD work requires a lot of self-discipline as well as self-motivation.

Next, the ability to multi-task and keep a cool head in stressful situations is a big advantage for those who embark on a part-time PhD.

Stressing out easily and feeling easily overwhelmed with many tasks and deadlines, on the other hand, is counterproductive in a part-time PhD.

Furthermore, flexibility and the ability to adapt to different circumstances is pivotal.

Part-time PhD students tend to wear many different hats. They need to be able to switch between different roles and juggle lots of different tasks and responsibilities.

Additionally, not everything will work according to plan. Part-time PhD students have to accept that things do not always work out as expected and have to quickly adapt to new situations.

Lastly, the ability to work independently can make or break a part-time PhD trajectory. Working on a PhD part-time often means working from home, alone, without social interaction and constant feedback opportunities. Not everyone is cut out for this type of work.

A fundamental condition for success in a part-time PhD is the selection of a fitting research topic.

As in any PhD, regardless of whether full- or part-time, a PhD student spends many waking hours on the topic. If the topic is not interesting to the PhD student, and he or she is not passionate about it, motivation to work on it will inevitably decrease over time.

At the same time, the most passionate and skilled PhD student may still struggle if the institutional environment and supervision are suboptimal.

A supportive institutional environment that assists, accommodates, and invests in part-time PhD students can make a world of difference.

Probably even more important than the institutional environment is a good relationship between the part-time PhD student and PhD supervisors.

The quality and quantity of supervision matters, but also the social compatibility between students and supervisor/s. Therefore, applying to a programme without having ever met the prospective supervisor in person is a risky business.

If a prospective PhD student intends to continue working part-time in a different job, all parties should be informed and agree with the arrangements. If there is a connection between the PhD topic and the job, some employers even enter a formal arrangement that allows the student to do PhD work during some ‘normal’ working hours.

Pulling off a part-time PhD without all parties approving, or even knowing about it, can create a lot of problems along the way.

Lastly, a certain degree of financial security is required. Of course, this depends on the unique financial arrangements made by a part-time PhD. However, if other work, scholarships or grants are not enough to cover living expenses during a part-time PhD, it is not advisable to embark on this journey.

While online, part-time PhD programmes were available before the Covid19 pandemic, they have become much more common in the last two years. There are some strong opinions when it comes to online, part-time PhD programmes.

Proponents of these online programmes highlight how they can help to create a more level playing field . It allows PhD candidates, for instance, to live in a low-cost living area, while following a PhD at a prestigious university in a high-cost of living area.

Opponents lament the decreasing quality of PhD supervision in online PhD programmes. Some argue that doing a PhD increasingly becomes increasingly financialised, with universities collecting tuition fees but not providing adequate support.

However, with everything, this is very difficult to generalise . It requires prospective PhD students who are interested in these programmes to inform themselves thoroughly and to decide on a personal basis whether an online programme is a good fit or not. Speaking with others who already do, or finished, online part-time PhD programmes might be particularly useful.

If you consider embarking on a part-time PhD, your decision can be supported by asking (yourself) the following questions:

  • What is my motivation to do a part-time PhD?
  • Am I passionate enough about my (potential) research topic to spend several years working on it?
  • What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of doing a part-time PhD, and how can I mitigate the disadvantages?
  • Do I have enough self-discipline and endurance to do a part-time PhD with limited supervision?
  • Do I have the flexibility to incorporate potential coursework into my day-to-day agenda?
  • How many hours/week do I want to spend on my PhD, and how many hours can I (afford to) spend on it?
  • What are the part-time PhD regulations of the university/universities where I consider applying?
  • Is the (potential) PhD supervisor a good fit, and does the institutional environment seem supportive of part-time PhD students?
  • How can I finance the part-time PhD?
  • What do I want to do after completing the PhD?

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25 Best Part Time PhD Programs [2024 Guide]

Explore part time PhD programs. Compare schools and see why you should consider earning your doctorate part time.

Part Time PhD Programs

If work or other responsibilities have been holding you back from diving headfirst into doctoral studies, consider part time PhD programs instead.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

You may enroll in an on-campus or online PhD program to earn your doctoral credentials on a schedule that fits your busy lifestyle.

Universities Offering PhD and Other Doctorate Programs Online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Andrews University

Andrews University is a private university in Berrien Springs, Michigan, that is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Founded in 1874, Andrews has a current annual enrollment of 3,366.

Students can pursue 130 undergraduate and 70 graduate majors across eight schools and colleges. Degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels are available.

  • PhD in Curriculum and Instruction
  • PhD in Educational Leadership
  • PhD in Higher Education Administration
  • PhD in Leadership

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Clemson University

Clemson University is a public research university located in Clemson, South Carolina. Founded in 1889, Clemson boasts an annual student enrollment nearing 30,000. U.S. News & World Report ranks Clemson University in 24th place among all public universities.

Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across Clemson’s seven schools and colleges.

  • PhD in Healthcare Genetics
  • PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management
  • PhD in Rhetorics, Communication and Information Design

Clemson University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

3. George Washington University

Chartered in 1821 by an act of the United States Congress, George Washington University stands today as a private research university with an annual enrollment of more than 27,000. GWU is divided into 14 colleges and schools offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.

The Princeton Review consistently ranks George Washington University as a top college in a number of categories. In addition, GWU has been ranked as one of the Top Universities for Producing Billionaires by the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings.

  • PhD in Nursing
  • PhD in Systems Engineering

GW  is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

4. Hampton University

Hampton University is a private, historically black university located in Hampton, Virginia, that was founded in 1868. The university is comprised of 10 accredited schools and colleges offering 50 bachelor’s programs, 26 master’s programs, and seven doctoral programs. The Alumni Factor has named Hampton one of the best colleges in Virginia.

  • PhD in Business Administration
  • PhD in Educational Management

Hampton University  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

5. Indiana State University

Indiana State University is a public university located in Terre Haute, Indiana, with a history dating back to 1865. ISU offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and 75 graduate. Students can pursue 20 bachelor’s degrees, 22 master’s degrees, and seven doctoral degrees on campus and online through ISU’s six academic colleges.

  • PhD in Educational Administration – Higher Education Leadership
  • PhD in Educational Administration – School Administration
  • PhD in Technology Management

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Keiser University

Keiser University is a private university based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Founded in 1977, Keiser offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs available both on campus and online. Money magazine has rated Keiser University one of the top colleges for the money in Florida. Nearly 20,000 students study at Keiser.

  • PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology
  • PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
  • PhD in Instructional Design and Technology

Keiser University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

7. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private evangelical Christian university founded in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1971. The school consists of 17 distinct colleges offering a wide variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Programs are divided between 366 on-campus options and 280 online options.

  • PhD in Bible Exposition
  • PhD in Communication
  • PhD in Criminal Justice
  • PhD in Criminal Justice – Homeland Security
  • PhD in Criminal Justice – Leadership
  • PhD in Education – Curriculum and Instruction
  • PhD in Education – Instructional Design and Technology
  • PhD in Education – Organizational Leadership
  • PhD in Education – Special Education
  • PhD in Higher Education Administration – Educational Leadership
  • PhD in History
  • PhD in Nursing – Nursing Education
  • PhD in Psychology – Developmental Psychology
  • PhD in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology
  • PhD in Psychology – Social Psychology
  • PhD in Public Policy
  • PhD in Public Policy – Economic Policy
  • PhD in Public Policy – Education Policy
  • PhD in Public Policy – Foreign Policy
  • PhD in Public Policy – National Security
  • PhD in Public Policy – Social Policy
  • PhD in Strategic Media
  • PhD in Theology and Apologetics

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

8. Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University is a public research university located near Starkville, Mississippi, that is classified among RI Doctoral Universities for very high research activity. MSU’s more than 22,000 enrolled students can pursue more than 180 areas of study for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The school was founded in 1878.

  • PhD in Community College Leadership
  • PhD in Computational Engineering
  • PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • PhD in Engineering – Aerospace Engineering
  • PhD in Engineering – Civil Engineering
  • PhD in Engineering – Mechanical Engineering
  • PhD in Industrial & Systems Engineering

Mississippi State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a public, historically black university located in Greensboro, North Carolina. The school was founded in 1891 by the North Carolina General Assembly. It is ranked among the top historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) by U.S. News & World Report.

A total of 54 bachelor’s, 29 master’s, and nine doctoral degrees are offered through the school’s eight colleges.

  • PhD in Leadership Studies

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Texas Tech University

Established in 1923, Texas Tech University is a public research university in Lubbock, Texas, featuring 13 colleges and 60 research centers. The Princeton Review has ranked Texas Tech among the 125 best colleges in the Western United States.

Texas Tech offers 150 options for bachelor’s degrees, 110 options for master’s degrees, and 59 doctoral degree programs.

  • PhD in Curriculum and Instructions – Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education
  • PhD in Curriculum and Instructions – Language, Diversity & Literacy Studies
  • PhD in Curriculum and Instructions – STEM
  • PhD in Educational Leadership Policy
  • PhD in Family and Consumer Science Education
  • PhD in Special Education

Texas Tech University  is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

11. University at Buffalo

Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo a public research university with campuses in Buffalo and Amherst, New York. Nearly 32,000 students are enrolled in what is considered to be the largest public university in New York. UB offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 13 academic schools and colleges.

  • PhD in Information Science

The  University at Buffalo  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

12. University of Alabama – Huntsville

The University of Alabama in Huntsville was founded in 1950. It is one of three members of the University of Alabama System. UAH school awards 44 bachelor’s, 30 master’s and 15 doctoral degrees across nine colleges to a study body of nearly 10,000.

UAH is a space-grant university with a large focus on engineering and science programs.

  • PhD in Civil Engineering
  • PhD in Engineering Management
  • PhD in Industrial Engineering
  • PhD in Joint Nursing Science

UAH  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. University of Colorado – Denver

A member of the University of Colorado system, the University of Colorado Denver is a public research facility offering hundreds of degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies across dozens schools and colleges.

Total annual enrollment stands at 24,910. Forbes places the University of Colorado Denver 34th on the its list of best public colleges.

University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant research university with a main campus in Gainesville, Florida. This senior member of the State University System of Florida offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs to the more than 56,000 students that enroll annually.

The list of notable UF alumni includes Erin Andrews, Emmitt Smith, Faye Dunaway, and Marc Rubio.

  • PhD in Classical Civilization
  • PhD in Latin and Roman Studies

The  University of Florida  is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

15. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a public research university based in Lawrence, Kansas. Founded in 1865, KU offers more than 345 degree programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. KU has an annual enrollment of more than 28,400 students.

The school’s faculty and alumni list includes four NASA astronauts, seven Pulitzer Prize winners, 27 Rhodes Scholars, and 325 Fulbright Scholars.

The  University of Kansas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

16. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri was founded in 1839 as the flagship of the University of Missouri System. Mizzou currently offers more than 300 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across 13 major academic divisions for its more than 30,000 enrolled students.

  • PhD in Architectural Studies

The University of Missouri is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

17. University of North Carolina – Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public research university located in Greensboro, North Carolina, that dates back to 1891. This school with an annual enrollment topping 20,000 is part of the University of North Carolina system.

More than 100 bachelor’s, 61 master’s, and 26 doctoral programs are offered at UNCG.

The  University of North Carolina at Greensboro  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. University of North Dakota

Located in Grand Forks, the University of North Dakota offers 90 bachelor’s majors, 54 master’s programs, and 27 doctoral programs. UND was founded in 1883. Currently, UND has an annual enrollment of 13,581 students spread across its 10 academic divisions. The school’s athletic teams compete in the NCAA’s Division I.

  • PhD in Aerospace Sciences
  • PhD in Biomedical Engineering
  • PhD in Chemical Engineering
  • PhD in Electrical Engineering
  • PhD in Energy Engineering
  • PhD in Environmental Engineering
  • PhD in Indigenous Health
  • PhD in Petroleum Engineering

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

19. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina is a public research university located in Columbia, South Carolina. The more than 35,000 students enrolled at USC today can study toward bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. The school’s history dates back to 1801.

  • PhD in Computer Engineering
  • PhD in Computer Science
  • PhD in Mechanical Engineering
  • PhD in Nuclear Engineering

University of South Carolina is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota is a public research university in Vermillion, South Dakota, with an enrollment of nearly 10,000 students. The university is divided between seven colleges offering hundreds of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. USD’s campus is home to the National Music Museum. The school was founded in 1862.

  • PhD in Health Sciences

USD  is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

21. University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi is a public research university with a main campus located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Southern Miss awards bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across more than 189 programs. Founded in 1910, the school boasts an annual enrollment of more than 14,00 students.

Southern Mississippi’s academic offerings are divided across four colleges and schools.

  • PhD in Nursing Leadership

The  University of Southern Mississippi  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

22. University of Tennessee – Knoxville

Founded in 1794, the University of Tennessee is a public research university located in Knoxville, Tennessee. UT offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 10 undergraduate colleges and eleven graduate colleges. Annual enrollment stands at close to 29,000 students.

Established two years before Tennessee officially became a state, the University of Tennessee is one of the oldest public universities in the country.

  • PhD in Industrial and Systems Engineering – Engineering Management

The  University of Tennessee – Knoxville  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

23. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands is a private university located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, dating back to 1888. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in a variety of specialties in the arts and sciences are offered across four colleges. Total annual enrollment is 13,476.

University of the Cumberlands  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University is a public research university located in Richmond, Virginia, with a history dating back to 1838. VCU offers more than 217 programs for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 11 schools and three colleges.

U.S. News & World Report has classified VCU as a Tier 1 University that ranks in 84th place among all public colleges and universities in the United States.

  • PhD in Health Related Sciences

VCU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

25. West Virginia University

Founded in 1875, West Virginia University is a public research university with a main campus in Morgantown, West Virginia. More than 350 academic programs for bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees are offered through 14 schools and colleges for the nearly 30,000 students who enroll at WVU annually.

Designated among the R1 Research Universities for very high research activity, WVU boasts research partnerships with the Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

West Virginia University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Do Part Time PhD Programs Exist?

PhD student studying at a cafe

Yes, part time PhD programs do exist. Universities know that many people have packed schedules. To accommodate busy students, some schools give the option of part-time enrollment in PhD programs online or on-campus.

The idea is that you may work your way through one of these programs while still living at home and holding a regular job — no uprooting your life required.

Many part-time PhD programs are offered online, which can be particularly convenient. Online college allows you to attend the university of your choice without having to move away from your hometown.

You may take classes online, chat digitally with your academic advisors, and work on your dissertation from the comfort of your own home. Even still, there may be some in-person residencies or practicums required.

PhD student studying at home

Finances are one of the best reasons to enroll in a part-time online program. The paycheck that you bring in each week can help you afford your grad school tuition without living on ramen noodles for five years straight.

Of course, being able to hold a full-time job while going through your doctoral program is more than just a way to make money. Particularly if your field of study is relevant to your job, you may find many opportunities to connect your classroom studies to real-world experiences.

It’s even possible that a situation at work may provide inspiration for the topic of your doctoral dissertation. If you feel that a dissertation may prevent you from finishing your PhD, then a professional doctorate may be a better choice.

For example, doctor of education programs don’t require dissertations in many cases. Instead, students may complete a final capstone project to demonstrate subject mastery.

Part-time students don’t make up the majority of doctoral candidates; even still, you certainly won’t be the only one if you choose to go this route. In the past year, approximately 44% of doctoral students were enrolled in part-time programs .

What Are the Most Popular PhD Programs?

Most Popular PhD Programs

Doctorates are available in practically any field, but some are more common than others. The following table shows some of the top PhDs that you may be able to earn online.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some related careers and their average salaries include:

Getting your doctorate may certainly increase your earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for PhDs is $110,200. That’s a large jump from $78,210, the average annual earnings for those with a master’s degree.

How Do Part Time PhD Degree Programs Work?

How Do Part Time PhD Degree Programs Work

To graduate from a part-time doctoral program, you’ll need to do the same work that you would for a full-time course of study. You’ll simply spread the work out over a longer stretch of time.

The first portion of your program will likely be devoted to classes. If you’re enrolled on a part-time basis, you’ll probably keep your course load light instead of taking multiple classes at once.

You may be able to take the classes online, but your school may require a few in-person residencies as well.

Some classes will focus on the research methods that are essential for all doctoral candidates to know, such as analyzing data and writing scholarly reports. At this point, you may also start thinking about a topic for your upcoming research project.

PhD student studying at his home

Other courses will be related to your field of study. While some classes may be required of every student in your PhD department, others may be electives. That way, you may build a course of study that is tailored to your career goals and research interests.

After completing your classes, your school may require oral or written testing as a way of assessing your knowledge.

Next, you’ll turn your attention toward your dissertation or another final project. This usually requires completing original research and reporting your findings in a detailed paper.

Even for full-time students, it may take several years to complete a dissertation. On a part-time basis, you may be working on this project even longer.

Once you finish your dissertation, the school’s faculty will need to approve it. Then, you’ll answer questions during a defense of your research. If the faculty determines that you have successfully defended your dissertation, you’ll then be awarded your PhD.

How Long Does It Take to Do a PhD Part Time?

How Long Does It Take to Do a PhD Part Time

How long it takes to complete your PhD through a part-time schedule is largely up to you and how much you can commit to your studies at any point in time.

You may find that there are some seasons in which you’re able to invest a good portion of your time and other seasons when you’re only able to do the bare minimum to keep going.

As a general rule, though, you should expect your part-time studies to last for several years. Being a part-time student won’t exempt you from any of the program’s requirements.

You’ll still need to earn just as many credit hours, complete any residency or internship experiences, and do the same final projects. The work will just be spread out over a longer period of time.

PhD students studying in a library

You should probably plan to work on your doctoral program for six to eight years. Some students take even longer. There may be a maximum duration allowed by your program, so be sure to discuss that with your faculty advisor.

Although part-time schooling is convenient, being enrolled in the same program for years on end may start to feel tedious. It’s important to choose an area of study that you really care about.

Your passion for your studies can keep you motivated even when graduation still seems a long way off.

Admission Requirements for a PhD

PhD student during an admissions interview

No matter what type of doctoral program it is, whether it is a part time or an online accelerated doctoral program , they can be competitive and you’ll want to make sure that your application stands out to the admissions committee. The first step is making sure that you meet the requirements and include all necessary documentation.

  • Application and fee: Filling out this form gives the committee basic information about you, so be sure to complete it thoroughly. The fee will be non-refundable, even if you aren’t admitted.
  • College transcripts: These demonstrate whether you have the appropriate academic background. You will need to hold a bachelor’s degree, and you may need a master’s degree as well. There may be minimum GPA scores required.
  • Test scores: Many schools use GRE or GMAT scores to determine whether you have what it takes to succeed in a PhD program. If you’re an international applicant, you may also need TOEFL scores to demonstrate your proficiency with the English language.
  • Letters of reference: These should come from academic or professional colleagues who can attest to your commitment and character. Two or three letters may be required.
  • Personal statement or research proposal: This is your chance to communicate your study goals. That way, the school can determine whether your interests align with the expertise of the faculty.

Pay close attention to application deadlines. It’s smart to submit your materials a few weeks before the cutoff since schools don’t usually take late applications.

Accreditation for PhD Programs

Accreditation for PhD Programs

Accreditation is a process in which an independent organization evaluates a college’s programs and results to determine whether the school is doing a good job of educating students. If the college is up to par, then it receives approval from an accrediting body.

The primary type of accreditation to consider is regional accreditation . There are seven U.S. organizations that have the right to grant regional accreditation.

There are fairly high standards for regional accreditation. As a result, this type of accreditation is well-respected, and employers are often more inclined to select candidates whose degrees come from regionally accredited schools.

Financial Aid for PhD Students

Financial Aid for PhD Students

Paying for a doctorate out of pocket can be an overwhelming prospect, but there are a number of options for funding your PhD.

  • Fellowships: Based on your personal merits, your school or a private organization may give you fellowship money intended to further your research goals.
  • Government grants: If your income qualifies, you may get free tuition help from the state or federal government.
  • Government loans: You may have the option to take out low-interest loans from the federal government or your state.
  • Private loans: To supplement your financial package, you may also need private loans. Just be aware that these can come with high interest rates.
  • Scholarships: You can apply for gift money from a scholarship-granting organization, such as a professional association in your field.
  • Stipends: Some schools grant PhD candidates a small stipend. There are usually stipulations to this, and the rules may differ for part-time students.

To find out more, talk to your school’s financial aid department. Be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Also, if getting a doctorate could benefit your performance at work, you may be able to request tuition assistance from your employer.

Can You Do PhD Part Time?

PhD student studying at home

Yes, you can do a PhD part time. Studying for a PhD doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Just as there are part time masters programs , you can likewise enroll in a doctoral program on a part-time basis.

With that approach, you may be able to go to work during the day and take classes or write papers in the evening. It may even be possible to complete the coursework online.

Is PhD Full Time or Part Time?

Both full-time and part-time PhD programs are available. Some people choose to earn their doctorates as quickly as possible by going to school full-time. Others opt to enroll part-time so that they may keep up with work or family responsibilities.

Keep in mind that not all schools give you the choice between full-time and part-time study; their traditional or online doctoral programs may be specifically designed for one or the other.

Is a PhD Worth It?

Is a PhD Worth It

Yes, a PhD is worth it for many students. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a 5.9% job growth for doctoral or professional degree holders over the next 1o years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Getting a PhD may open new doors. Earning this top degree may grant you entrance into academia as a researcher or a professor.

It may also prepare you to assume high leadership roles and earn more money in your field. Plus, there’s often a sense of personal satisfaction that comes from accomplishing a huge goal like earning a PhD.

If you’re ready to put those three letters after your name, then it’s time to think about enrolling in a doctoral program. Apply to part-time PhD programs so you may pursue your degree without putting your life on hold.

part time job phd student

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40 Part-Time Jobs Websites for PhD Scholars to Earn Extra Income!

40 Best Part-Time Jobs and Websites for PhD Scholars to Find Extra Income Opportunities

Dr. Somasundaram R

PhD programs are known for their intensive and demanding nature, and it can be challenging to balance the academic workload with other responsibilities such as work or family. Many PhD students find themselves in need of additional income to support themselves while pursuing their studies. Fortunately, there are plenty of part-time jobs that are perfect for PhD scholars. In this article, illovephd explore 50 part-time jobs that can help you earn extra money during your PhD program.

35 Best Part-Time Jobs and Websites for PhD Scholars to Find Extra Income Opportunities

  • Tutoring: As a PhD student, you have a wealth of knowledge to share. Consider tutoring high school or college students in your field of expertise.
  • Freelance writing: If you have a talent for writing, you can find work as a freelance writer for blogs, websites, or other publications.
  • Data entr y : Many companies need data entry clerks to input information into databases.
  • Virtual assistant: You can provide administrative support to busy professionals remotely.
  • Social media management: If you have experience with social media, you can help companies manage their online presence.
  • Graphic design: Use your creativity to design logos, flyers, and other marketing materials for businesses.
  • Web development: You can help businesses create or maintain their websites.
  • Photography: If you have a talent for photography, you can offer your services for events or stock photography.
  • Translation: If you are fluent in another language, you can provide translation services.
  • Editing and proofreading: Help others refine their written work and ensure that it’s free of errors.
  • Research assistant: Assist professors or other researchers with their studies.
  • Event planning: Help plan and execute events for businesses or organizations.
  • Customer service: Many companies need customer service representatives to answer phone calls or respond to emails.
  • Bookkeeping: Help businesses keep track of their finances.
  • Sales: Sell products or services for businesses.
  • Video editing: Edit videos for businesses or individuals.
  • Personal shopping: Help busy professionals or individuals shop for clothing or gifts.
  • Vlog on Youtube: Video blogging on youtube for extra income.
  • Delivery driver: Deliver food or packages for companies such as Uber Eats or Amazon.
  • Painting or carpentry: Use your skills to help individuals or businesses with home improvements.
  • Personal training: Provide one-on-one fitness training for individuals
  • Music lessons: Teach music lessons to individuals.
  • Writing grants: Help individuals or organizations apply for grants.
  • Social work: Work with individuals or communities to address social issues.
  • Marketing: Help businesses develop marketing strategies.
  • Virtual bookkeeping: Help businesses manage their finances remotely.
  • Consulting: Use your expertise to provide consulting services to businesses or individuals.
  • Event photography: Take photos at events for businesses or individuals.
  • Blogging : Start a blog and monetize it through affiliate marketing or sponsored content.
  • Voiceover work: Use your voice to record audio for commercials, videos, or other media.
  • Language teaching: Teach languages to individuals or groups.
  • Customer service management: Manage a team of customer service representatives for a company.
  • Web design: Create or maintain websites for businesses.
  • Video production: Produce videos for businesses or individuals.
  • Social media advertising: Help businesses run effective advertising campaigns

40 Part-Time job Websites for PhD Scholars

Here are 40 part-time job websites that can be helpful for PhD scholars:

  • Upwork: www.upwork.com
  • Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com
  • Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com
  • PeoplePerHour: https://www.peopleperhour.com
  • Guru: https://www.guru.com
  • SimplyHired:
  • Monster: https://www.monster.com
  • ZipRecruiter: https://www.ziprecruiter.com
  • FlexJobs: https://www.flexjobs.com
  • Remote.co: https://remote.co
  • Working Nomads: https://www.workingnomads.co
  • We Work Remotely: https://weworkremotely.com
  • Virtual Vocations: https://www.virtualvocations.com
  • Freelance Writing Jobs: https://www.freelancewriting.com/jobs
  • Journalism Jobs: https://www.journalismjobs.com
  • MediaBistro: https://www.mediabistro.com
  • ProBlogger Job Board: https://problogger.com/jobs
  • Tutor.com: https://www.tutor.com
  • Course Hero coursehero.com/become-a-tutor
  • VIPKid: https://www.vipkid.com
  • Cambly: cambly.com/en/tutors?lang=en
  • Verbling: https://www.verbling.com
  • Preply: https://preply.com/en
  • Data Entry Jobs: indeed.com/q-Data-Entry-jobs.html
  • Clickworker: https://www.clickworker.com
  • Lionbridge: https://www.lionbridge.com
  • TranscribeMe: https://www.transcribeme.com
  • Rev: rev.com/freelancers/transcription
  • Speechpad: https://www.speechpad.com
  • Amazon Mechanical Turk: https://www.mturk.com
  • Instacart: https://shoppers.instacart.com
  • TaskRabbit:
  • Handy: https://www.handy.com
  • Care.com: https://www.care.com

These websites offer a variety of part-time job opportunities, from freelance work and virtual assistant positions to tutoring and data entry jobs. PhD scholars can find opportunities to fit their expertise, schedule, and financial needs. These jobs can help you balance your academic workload with other responsibilities. Start earning extra income today! Happy Researching!

Also Read: Industry vs Academic Research

Part-Time Job websites for PhD

  • bookkeeping
  • customer service
  • customer service management
  • delivery driver
  • dog walking
  • event photography
  • event planning
  • extra income
  • fitness instructor
  • freelance writing
  • grant writing
  • graphic design
  • house sitting
  • landscaping
  • language teaching
  • music lessons
  • part-time jobs
  • personal shopping
  • personal training
  • pet sitting
  • photography
  • proofreading
  • Research Assistant
  • social media advertising
  • social media management
  • social work
  • translation
  • video editing
  • video production
  • virtual assistant
  • voiceover work
  • web development

Dr. Somasundaram R

Six Effective Tips to Identify Research Gap

24 best free plagiarism checkers in 2024, how to check scopus indexed journals 2024, most popular, types of research variable in research with example, what is hypothesis in research types, examples, & importance, how to write a research paper a complete guide, 14 websites to download research paper for free – 2024, google phd $50000 fellowship program 2024, phd funding schemes in india 2024, how does gptzero work ai detector for chatgpt / gemini / copilot / meta ai, best for you, what is phd, popular posts, 480 ugc-care list of journals – science – 2024, popular category.

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Personal Finance for PhDs

Live a financially balanced life - no Real Job required

The Complete Guide to a Side Hustle for a PhD Student or Postdoc

September 17, 2018 by Emily

It’s no secret that PhD students and postdocs are paid a meager salary, sometimes not even as much as the local living wage. While a fraction of graduate students have probably always pursued side income to supplement their stipends/salaries, e.g., through part-time jobs, moonlighting, or odd jobs, only in recent years has it become easy to make money online or make money from home. Enter the ‘side hustle.’ The term exploded in popularity during the Great Recession along with the ‘gig economy.’ The flexibility of modern side hustles has made it possible for students and postdocs to fit their income-generating activities around their busy research schedules.

This article details why a graduate student or postdoc would want to side hustle, whether it’s allowed by their university/institution, examples of real side hustles held by PhDs, how to best manage the side income, and advice from PhDs with successful side hustles.

side hustle PhD postdoc

Motivations for Side Hustling

The motivations for having a side hustle during your PhD training are to make up for the deficiencies in what the university provides: money (primarily) and career-advancing experiences.

Increase Income

Pursuing your PhD during graduate school or gaining additional training as a postdoc is supposed to be your full-time (or more) pursuit. Research is life, right? Unfortunately, the positions don’t pay anywhere near as well as a regular full-time job.

The best case scenario for a PhD student or postdoc is that you will be paid enough to support yourself without making extreme lifestyle sacrifices, i.e., living in a van . However, there are plenty of programs and universities that do not even meet that low bar for a single person with no dependents. For a graduate student or postdoc with a dependent spouse (e.g., of an international trainee) or children, the low stipend or salary is almost certainly inadequate.

Graduate students almost always turn first to cutting their living expenses to be able to live within their means. They know that they are supposed to devote the lion’s share of their weekly energy to their coursework, research, and teaching. But when their backs are against the wall, some make money on the side to avoid going (further) into debt.

Career-Advancing Experiences

Some graduate students and postdocs are motivated to side hustle not by lack of income but rather lack of practical career preparation.

What careers does a PhD or postdoc prepare you for? These days, the vast majority of PhDs are not hired into tenure-track faculty positions. (Time to stop calling the jobs most PhDs get “alternative”, right?) Some universities have acknowledged this and put in place programming to help PhDs transition out of academia (my alma mater, Duke University, and in particular the Pratt School of Engineering, is innovating in this area), while others are still catching up.

Of course, PhDs have plenty of transferable skills that can be put to use in a wide variety of careers, but landing a job is still challenging.

Further reading: How My PhD Prepared Me for Entrepreneurship

A judiciously chosen side hustle (or even volunteer work) can help a PhD build out her resumé/CV and network to stand out from the other PhD applicants. A side hustle can teach you new skills, give you an opportunity to demonstrate the skills you already possess, and introduce you to professionals who can further your career journey.

Video Series: How to Increase Your Income as a Graduate Student

part time job phd student

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Are Side Hustles Allowed by Your PhD Program or Postdoc Position?

While some academics may take the view that side hustling distracts from classes, teaching, research, etc., for some people a side hustle is the main factor that enables them to stay in their graduate programs or postdoc positions. They side hustle because they want to keep doing PhD-level research ; otherwise, they can just leave and earn more money elsewhere! If conceived and managed properly, a side hustle is not a distraction from the student or postdoc’s training but rather an enhancement of it.

If you think about graduate school or your postdoc as similar to any other type of job, usually the only stipulations regarding your side hustle are that: 1) it does not interfere with your primary job and 2) it does not present a conflict of interest. That logic is helpful for thinking through whether a side hustle is allowed, but the universities sometimes add layers of complexity.

Further reading: Can a Graduate Student Have a Side Hustle?

Side Hustle Permissibility by Position Type: International, Fellow, Employee, Etc.

There may be explicit bans on making money on the side or it may be frowned upon. The income and experience gained from a side hustle is not worth getting kicked out of your graduate program or postdoc position.

International trainees

The F-1 and J-1 visas generally only permit employment directly in your capacity as a graduate student or postdoc. Sometimes, you can seek permission for other employment ventures, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 visa holders. A side hustle that you work on simultaneously with your research will likely not comply with these rules, so it’s a no-go.

Fellowship Recipients (Graduate or Postdoc)

Check the terms of your fellowship funding supplied by your university, employer, or funding agency. There may be a stipulation that no outside income is allowed as the fellowship is designed to support you completely and require your complete dedication. If you choose to pursue a side income against the terms of your fellowship, proceed with extreme caution and recognize the downside is potentially losing your primary funding. In other cases, outside income is not mentioned by the fellowship terms or is even explicitly allowed.

Research and Teaching Assistants

This is the category of graduate students most likely to be able to get away with a side hustle or be explicitly allowed because your responsibilities are generally time-limited to 20 hours per week (officially). Of course, beyond that, you are responsible for your dissertation work, so side hustling might conflict with that important pursuit. If you are in a contract with your university, check its terms. If outside income is not allowed, proceed with caution as you might lose your assistantship. You might, however, find a provision that allows outside income, perhaps up to a certain number of hours per week.

Postdoc Employees

A postdoc employee has a regular job, albeit a demanding one. Your desire to side hustle at that point in your training is more likely motivated by career advancement rather than income. Again, check your contract, but a side hustle may very well be permissible as long as it doesn’t interfere with your work. If you are working in your field, though, it could be a good idea to seek your advisor’s permission in advance.

What Does Your Advisor Think?

The person with the most important opinion on your side hustle–after you–is your advisor. Allowed, disallowed, frowned upon… The status of side hustling in the eyes of your university, department, or funding agency is less important than its status to your advisor. If your advisor is an unforgiving taskmaster who expects his myopic view of the supremacy of research to be adopted by his trainees, a side hustle is a very risky endeavor. However, if your advisor is a reasonable and kind person who respects work-life balance, it may be better to ask for forgiveness rather than permission if your side hustle is discovered and viewed negatively.

The Bottom Line: The Spirit of the Law

The spirit of the law when it comes to side hustling during graduate school or your postdoc is that it should not distract from your training. (This sentiment does not apply to visa holders; the letter of the law is most important in that case.) Financial and career stress itself can easily distract from training, so it may be a matter of choosing the lesser of two ‘evils.’

Prohibitions against outside income make sense when the income comes from a part-time job with fixed hours (meaning that you wouldn’t be able to stay late in lab if necessary) or if it takes so much time overall that you can’t complete your work healthily. But I don’t find prohibitions against outside work that doesn’t interfere with the student or postdoc’s primary ‘job’ any more logical than prohibitions against having a family or a hobby (assuming no conflict of interest).

Ultimately, rules or no rules and advisor’s opinion aside, you are the only person who gets to decide whether to pursue a side hustle. You are the one who will manage it and make sure that it enhances your PhD training instead of detracting from it.

part time job phd student

Types of PhD Side Hustles and Examples of PhD Side Hustles

I break side hustles for PhDs into four categories: ones that advance your career, ones that you enjoy, ones that pay well (enough), and passive income. A side hustle that pays well and advances your career is ideal. If you can’t achieve that, doing something you enjoy is obviously preferable to doing something that you dislike or feel neutral toward that simply pays some bills. Passive income is outside of this ranked order as it doesn’t involve trading time directly for money.

By the way, if you are looking for a way to increase your income that your advisor would be totally on board with, try applying for a fellowship. I’ve created a guide to applying for and winning fellowships that includes a list of broad, portable fellowships that pay full stipends/salaries.

Further reading: How to Find, Apply for, and Win a Fellowship During Your PhD or Postdoc

PhD Side Hustles that Advance Your Career

There’s no better type of side hustle than one that pays you and helps you along in your career. Through this type of side hustle, you put your current skills to use, learn new skills, expand your network, and/or explore a possible career path. Often, this sort of side hustle is related to your current field of research or uses skills you’ve honed during your PhD. You might even be able to start working for a potential future employer while you’re still in training.

Examples of PhD side hustles that advance your career are:

  • Teaching ( Derek )
  • Zoo and aquarium evaluation ( Kathayoon )
  • Design ( Mark )
  • Data science ( Edward )
  • Freelance writing ( Derek )
  • Freelance academic writing ( Vicki )
  • Freelance scientific paper editing ( Julie and Amy )
  • Freelance scientific paper editing ( Jenni )
  • Thesis/dissertation editing
  • Scientific research summer internship ( Alice )
  • Engineering summer internship ( David )
  • Science policy fellow ( Emily )
  • Research analyst for investor relations ( Adam )
  • Online professor ( Kathayoon )

PhD Side Hustles that You Enjoy

Sometimes an enjoyable hobby can be monetized or you can find meaning and delight in a side hustle. This kind of side hustle is one you would likely spend some time doing even if you weren’t being paid and can be particularly revitalizing during the long slog of your PhD or postdoc.

Examples of PhD side hustles that you might enjoy are:

  • YouTube ( Shannon )
  • Singing ( Meggan )
  • Piano ( Kathayoon )
  • Fitness classes ( Anonymous )
  • Resident advising for graduate students ( David )
  • Resident advising for a fraternity ( Adrian )

PhD Side Hustles that Pay the Bills

If the only purpose a side hustle fulfills is bringing in some money, it’s done its job. Sometimes these pursuits are necessary for survival, but you shouldn’t spend any more time on them than absolutely necessary.

Examples of PhD side hustles that (likely) simply bring in income are:

  • Food service

PhD Passive Income

Passive income has become a bit of a buzzword in recent years. Ostensibly, passive income occurs after you make some kind of investment that then pays a residual.

Making a monetary investment in a rental property or dividend-paying stock is a classic example of passive income. The former is definitely a possible income source for a PhD who owns her own home.

Further reading: Should I Buy a Home During Grad School?

If you don’t have money up front, you can “invest” your time and talent into a product that people will buy over time. The classic example of that type is an author who is paid a royalty with each book sale.

The current fad incarnation of passive investing is a promise that you can “make money while you sleep!” through online business, generally selling previously created digital products. ( I do this in my business. ) However, almost no online business runs for long without input of time and labor. The upside for a graduate student or postdoc, however, is that the large time investment needed up front to generate passive income and the maintenance over the long term can generally be performed on your own schedule and under the radar.

Examples of PhD side hustles that are passive income:

  • Writing (i.e., published author)
  • Patent holder (licensed)
  • Flash cards and ebook ( Alex )
  • Investing for current income
  • Landlording

Balancing Your Side Hustle with Your PhD Work

Figuring out how to make money and settling into a groove of earning a side income can be exciting. It can even be more gratifying at times than your research as research is basically a series of failures punctuated by occasional successes. In those weeks and month when nothing is going right in your research, being able to turn to an activity with a known outcome ($$!) can be a welcome relief. However, you should not forget why you are pursuing the side hustle in the first place: to finish your PhD and pursue a certain career. (Of course, your side hustle may spur you to leave your program, but only do so after serious reflection! It shouldn’t be about the side hustle per se but a carefully considered evolution of your career plans.)

To that end, there are a few strategies you can use to make sure your side hustle complements and does not compete with your primary role:

1) Track Your Time

Set weekly limits for yourself on the amount of time you will spend on your role as a graduate student or postdoc vs. on your side hustle. If your time spent side hustling creeps too high or your time spent on research dips too low, you know you need to readjust. Expect your weekly time goals to change throughout the seasons of your PhD training.

2) Set Geographic and/or Temporal Boundaries

It’s best if you conduct your side hustle in a different location than your primary PhD workspace; for example, you could work from home on your side hustle and never in your office or on campus. An alternative to geographic boundaries is temporal boundaries, such as never working on your side hustle during daytime working hours. The exact boundaries you set will depend heavily on the nature of both your PhD work and your side hustle.

3) Choose a Flexible Side Hustle

An ideal side hustle for a PhD is one that can be accomplished from anywhere at any time and ramped up or down depending on how busy you are with your research. This is not realistic for all side hustles, but the more axes of flexibility yours has the better it will complement your primary job.

4) Keep Your Side Hustle Quiet (If Possible)

An internship or professional fellowship that requires time away from your graduate program or postdoc obviously can’t be kept secret, but many other side hustles can fly under the radar of your advisor and department if you want them to. The seriousness of the possible repercussions or how “frowned upon” side hustling is should dictate how open you are about your pursuit. Keep in mind that a side hustle in your current field of research may very well get back to your advisor as communities are quite small, so in that case it may be better to be completely above board.

Best Financial Practices for Your Side Hustle

Most side hustles are independent contractor or self-employment positions, which means that you become an entrepreneur (or solopreneur) of a kind. There are some common best practices in self-employment you should put in place from the start of your side hustle.

Further reading:

  • Best Financial Practices for Your PhD Side Hustle
  • How to Pay Tax on Your PhD Side Hustle

1) Use a Separate Business Checking Account

Separating your personal transactions from your business transactions at the account level will help you keep track of exactly how much money you are earning after expenses and what is deductible on your tax return. You can make periodic transfers from your business account to your personal account to pay yourself.

2) Set Aside Money for Tax Payments (Quarterly or Annually)

Your PhD side hustle generates (potentially) taxable income, subject not only to income tax but also in many cases self-employment tax. Add your marginal tax brackets at the federal, state, and local levels together with the FICA tax you must pay, and set aside that fraction of each of your side hustle paychecks to ultimately pay the extra tax. If you earn enough in your side hustle compared to your primary job, you eventually will need to start paying quarterly estimated tax. Fellowship recipients who don’t have automatic tax withholding are already familiar with this process. Even if you aren’t required to pay quarterly, expect a larger year-end tax bill.

Further reading: The Complete Guide to Quarterly Estimated Tax for Fellowship Recipients

3) Give your Earnings a Job

The best way to ensure you don’t blow your side income is to assign it a job to be completed as soon as it hits your personal account. You could pay a specific bill or two with your side income or only allow yourself certain indulgences from your side income. For example, Jenni saved her side hustle earnings for travel.

Closing Advice and Thoughts from PhD Side Hustlers

“Honestly, it kept me sane to have other things going on… [They] helped me to finish my dissertation more quickly because I was more focused on the time I had, instead of having lots of unstructured time to work.” – Kathayoon

“I’d encourage graduate students to pursue a lot of different opportunities while in school, even ones that are at a slant from what they usually do. It’s easy to get tunnel vision as a grad student, but if you open yourself up, you can develop really useful skills while reinvigorating your academic work.” – Derek

“I definitely recommend finding something in grad school that’s unrelated to the work you do, monetized or not, so that if all your experiments fail one week, you still have something meaningful to throw yourself into.” – Shannon

“This experience was critical for my transition out of graduate school. I ended up getting a full-time offer at the same company after maybe 2 months of hourly work and have been there for almost 2 years now. The best part was that I had an opportunity to try out my job before starting full-time. How else do you know if you want to launch a career in a certain field?” – Adam

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  • Part Time PhDs – Everything You Need To Know
  • Types of Doctorates

Introduction

Whilst the core activities of a part time PhD are identical of that to a full time PhD, its arrangement is different. This difference is not only in programme duration but also in fees and funding opportunities. In addition to this, part time study also has different benefits and challenges. Therefore, whilst your personal situation may not be ideal for a full time PhD, it could be perfect for a part time one. We’ve outlined these differences as well as the pros and cons of part time study to help you decide whether it’s right for you.

Why Do a Part Time PhD?

Undertaking a part time PhD can be a great option for you if you fall into one of the four categories:

  • Financial – a part time PhD provides the opportunity to earn whilst you study. Although you could secure a full time studentship, the stipend it offers may not be enough in all cases, for example, if you’re financially responsible for multiple family members.
  • Career – working individuals, especially those who have already advanced several stages in their career, may opt for a Professional Doctorate. A Professional Doctorate is equivalent to a part time PhD, but focuses on a specific professional practice relevant to the individual. It’s usually undertaken when you wish to apply research skills in a professional environment or become more specialised in your industry.
  • Caring obligations – part time study offers a greater deal of flexibility compared to its full time equivalent. This can be desirable in situations where the individual has considerable caring obligations, such as a young family.
  • Intensity – many students feel that a pursuing a research degree over a longer period of time drastically lowers the intensity of postgraduate study. Part time PhD hours per week are typically around half that of its full time equivalent. This can come with a wide range of physical and mental health benefits.

Part Time PhD Fees

The average tuition fee for part time PhD study in the UK is approximately £2,356 per academic year for home students, and between £8,000 to £12,500 for international students.

This is typically 50% of the fee charged for an equivalent full time doctorate. However, a handful of universities use a prorated fee of up to 60% so it’s important to check the individual fees for each university you are applying to. These additional costs usually cover the admin/overhead fees associated with your time at the university.

Besides the tuition fee, there are several other costs which you need to account for. You can learn about these costs in our full cost breakdown of UK PhDs .

Part Time PhD Funding and Scholarships

As a part time student, most universities will expect you to fund your own studies. This is because nearly all part-time students will work a paying job alongside their studies which can be used to support their education.

However, you may still apply to department or university funding opportunities such as subject-specific bursaries. Besides this, external bodies such as Research Councils , research charities and industrial institutions also offer grants and PhD studentships for research projects related to their field. It’s worth remembering these opportunities are usually very limited and are awarded based on a candidates strength and not their personal situation.

One benefit of selecting a research project related to your employer is that it opens an additional opportunity for funding. It’s not uncommon for an employer to contribute to an employee’s tuition fee if there is a mutual benefit to be had.

How Long Is a Part Time PhD?

The average duration of part time PhDs in the UK is between 6 to 7 years. This is double a full time doctorate.

Universities also set registration periods which limit the minimum and maximum amount of time you can be enrolled in a course. For doctorates, the minimum duration is usually 4 years and the maximum 8 years.

How Many Working Hours per Week?

You will be expected to work half the number of hours of a full time student. Although full time students are expected to work 35 hours a week, in reality, most will work closer to 40 – 45 hours. Therefore, you’ll be expected to dedicate approximately 20 hours each week towards your degree.

However, you won’t always be able to achieve this many hours due to your other commitments. Therefore, working to a frequent and consistent schedule will be more important. Working on your research in irregular intervals or whenever time permits will be an inefficient approach – it’s far better, plus psychologically easier, to commit to a consistent schedule. Though your PhD supervisor may be able to offer guidance in this regard, ultimately the PhD is yours to shape.

Most part time programmes will also have some doctoral training courses with fixed dates, especially those which are organised by industry experts or visiting lecturers. There may also be time restrictions to be aware of if you are a postgraduate researcher involved in laboratory work, particularly where special equipment is needed as this may be rented by the university research centre and only available during certain times in the year.

Part Time PhDs for International Students

If you are an international student wishing to undertake a part time PhD programme in a foreign country, you will need to meet additional requirements.

For example, to study in the UK, you will need to secure both a work visa and a stable job. This is to prove that you can support yourself throughout the full length of your course. Unfortunately, even if you’re able to secure departmental or external funding, you won’t be able to use this to prove an income. Additionally, an international PhD student in the UK will need to demonstrate English proficiency as part of the application process. These entry requirements apply whether the overseas student is pursuing a PhD part-time or for full-time studies.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Challenges of a Part Time PhD

It’s generally accepted that undertaking a PhD part time is more challenging than undertaking it full time.

Age – although this shouldn’t be a factor, we know it can cause concern for some. If you have already been working for several years, you may find that some of your research colleagues or academic staff members are the same age or younger than yourself. This could cause apprehension or cultural issues if you fail to keep an open mind.

Detachment – as a research student, you’ll often doubt whether you’re working on the right thing or making sufficient progress. You can expect this feeling to be compounded if you’re studying on a part time basis. This is because you’ll have less interaction with your department, peers and supervisor given you won’t always be on campus.

Time management – juggling a career or significant family obligations with the demanding requirements of a doctoral degree can take its toll. Over the 6 to 7 years, you’ll no doubt encounter periods when your external commitments require more of your time, whether its intensive projects or the need for frequent travel associated with part time courses. During these times there is potential for your research to slip, or worse, become an unwanted burden.

Motivation – having to balance your time and focus with your other commitments can make it difficult to immerse yourself in your research. This often results in a lack of ‘momentum’, which coupled with a journey that’s twice as long, increases the risk of your passion fading out. Unfortunately, because of this, many supervisors observe the drop-out rate of part time students to be greater than that of their full time peers. This isn’t due to a lack of dedication or commitment, but due to the individual no longer being able to balance several demanding obligations without jeopardising their mental or physical well-being.

Funding opportunity availability – as mentioned earlier, since part-time applicants are able to work alongside their studies, there are fewer funding opportunities available to them.

Relevancy – as your doctoral study will take 6 to 7 years to complete, there is a risk that your research will no longer be relevant. This could be for several reasons. For example:

  • An individual may be working on a research project very similar to yours. Assuming they are working full time and complete their project before you, it could render your project ‘unoriginal’ depending on the amount of overlap between your findings. It is important to discuss this with potential supervisors who may be aware of similar PhD projects being undertaken.
  • New technology or knowledge may be developed which renders your original research question obsolete if the premise it was built on becomes ’outdated’.
  • New observations could be made which have the potential to jeopardise your work. For example, a new study may be published which identifies significant limitations behind a method outlined in your research proposal. This would cast serious doubt into the validity of your research findings, and in some cases, may require you to start over with an alternative method.

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PhD Pursuits

Can You Do A PhD Part Time? Best Part Time PhD Programs

For many, the opportunity to study for PhD may come at a time when many other commitments have started to enter their lives – career, family, children, and more. You could be one of them. Question is however, can you do a PhD part time?

You can do a PhD part time. Part-time PhD programs are usually designed to be more flexible, and gives more time for you to complete your dissertation. It could take up to 10 years to complete a part time Ph.D.

In this post, we explore if you can do your PhD part time. We also look into:

  • How part time PhD programs differ from full time ones, 
  • The pros and cons of part time PhD,
  • Some of the best part-time PhD programs in the US, and

Can You Do A PhD Part Time?

If you are juggling a full-time job or other significant commitments, here’s a good news – you can do a PhD part time. 

These programs offer the flexibility to merge professional pursuits with academic rigor, a boon for working professionals aiming to ascend in their field of study without pausing their careers.

Part-time PhD programs are not a diluted version of their full-time counterparts; they demand the same level of intensity and depth, particularly when it comes to the dissertation phase.

The primary difference lies in the time it takes to complete your degree. While a full-time PhD might take anywhere from 3 to 5 years, part-time PhDs can extend up to 7 or more, contingent on your pace and time management skills.

Can You Do A PhD Part Time

Institutions that offers these programs understand that part-time PhD students must navigate the dual demands of work and study. These students often requiring adept time management and a supportive network, including an understanding PhD supervisor.

How Does Part Time PhD Programs Work ?

Part-time PhD programs are tailored for those who balance a full-time job or other life commitments with their academic aspirations.

These programs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to progress through your doctoral journey without forsaking your professional or personal responsibilities. This means many part-time PhD students can study in a structure that accommodates their busy schedules. 

Classes might be offered in the evenings or on weekends, and many programs leverage online platforms to deliver coursework, making it easier for you to engage from anywhere.

A part-time PhD student typically takes fewer courses each semester compared to their full-time counterparts. This reduced course load extends the time it takes to complete the degree.

The pace is slower, but the standards remain high. You’re expected to produce a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to your field of study, just like in a full-time program.

Financial aid and scholarships are crucial for many part-time PhD candidates. Universities offer part-time students various forms of support, understanding the financial strain of:

  • juggling a job,
  • life’s expenses, and
  • tuition fees.

How Long Does It Take To Complete Part Time PhD?

Typically, a part-time PhD program stretches over a longer period than its full-time counterpart, largely due to the reduced hours a part-time student can dedicate weekly to their studies and research.

On average, part-time PhD students may take anywhere from 5 to 10 years to complete their doctoral degree, compared to 3 to 5 years for a full-time PhD.

This extended timeline is a reflection of the juggling act that part-time students perform, dividing their focus between academia and other life responsibilities.

The flexibility of part-time programs allows you to maintain your professional career and personal life while pursuing your doctorate, a key advantage that attracts many to this route.

Whats The Differences Between Part-time And Full-Time PhD?

One of the most noticeable differences is the time it takes to complete your degree. A full-time PhD typically spans 3 to 5 years, depending on the field of study and institution.

In contrast, part-time PhDs can extend up to 7 or even 10 years. This is because they are more flexible, catering to part-time students by allowing extended timelines for dissertation completion.

Schedule Flexibility

Part-time PhD programs are designed with working professionals in mind.

This means classes might be scheduled during evenings or weekends, and there’s often a significant portion of the program that can be completed online.

Full-time PhD students, however, are usually expected to adhere to a more traditional daytime schedule and may spend more time on campus engaged in research and teaching assistantships.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

While both part-time and full-time PhD students have access to financial aid and scholarships, the nature and amount might differ.

Full-time students often receive more comprehensive funding packages, which can include tuition waivers and stipends for teaching or research assistantships.

Part-time students may have access to financial aid but often rely more heavily on external funding, employer tuition assistance, or personal finances.

Academic and Professional Engagement  

Full-time PhD students typically immerse themselves in academia, engaging in their studies in a higher pace and intensity compared to their part-time counterparts. These activities include: 

  • attending conferences, and
  • contributing to publications.

Part-time PhD students, balancing a job and academic responsibilities, might find it challenging to engage at the same level without robust time management skills.

part time job phd student

However, they bring valuable real-world experience to their research, enriching their academic pursuit with professional insights.

Peer and Faculty Interaction

Full-time PhD students usually have more opportunities for direct interaction with peers and faculty due to their physical presence on campus. This can foster a strong sense of community and support, crucial for navigating the challenges of doctoral studies.

Part-time students, especially those in programs offered online, may need to seek out these interactions more actively, using digital platforms to connect with their academic community.

What Are The Upsides In Doing PhD Part Time?

Work and study balance.

One of the most compelling reasons to opt for a part-time PhD is the ability to maintain a full-time job while advancing your academic credentials. This balance allows you to continue earning a salary, which can be especially beneficial if you have financial obligations or if your employer offers tuition assistance.

Can You Do A PhD Part Time

For example, many working professionals in fields such as education, engineering, and healthcare leverage part-time PhD programs to elevate their expertise without stepping away from their careers.

Application of Learning

As a part-time PhD student, you can apply your learning in real-time to your professional role. This immediate application not only enhances your work performance but also enriches your academic research with practical insights.

Institutions like George Washington University  offer programs designed to integrate academic theory with professional practice, making your research more relevant and impactful.

Flexibility

Part-time PhD programs often offer greater flexibility in terms of scheduling and coursework delivery. Many programs provide evening or weekend classes, and a significant portion of the curriculum may be available online.

This flexibility allows you to tailor your academic pursuits around your personal and professional commitments, ensuring a more manageable and less stressful doctoral journey.

Networking Opportunities

Being engaged in a professional setting while pursuing your PhD provides ample networking opportunities. You can connect with professionals in your field of study, potentially opening doors to collaborative:

  • research projects,
  • industry partnerships, and
  • future career prospects.

This dual engagement ensures that you’re not only building an academic network but also strengthening your professional ties.

Time Management and Personal Growth

Juggling a part-time PhD with a full-time job and other life responsibilities demands exceptional time management skills.

While challenging, this can lead to significant personal growth, making you more:

  • resilient, and

The experience of managing multiple commitments can also enhance your CV, showcasing your ability to handle complex responsibilities and deadlines.

What Are The Downsides In Doing PhD Part Time?

Extended duration.

The most evident downside of a part-time PhD is the extended time to completion. Unlike the 3 to 5 years typically required for a full-time PhD, part-time students might take anywhere from 5 to 8 years or more.

This prolonged period can affect both personal and professional life plans, delaying the point at which you can fully leverage your doctoral degree in your career.

Limited Financial Aid

Although part-time PhD programs offer flexibility, they often come with less financial support compared to full-time programs. Full-time students tend to get financial support such as:

  • scholarships,
  • stipends, and
  • teaching assistantships

This means funding a part-time PhD can become more challenging. You may need to rely more on personal finances or loans, potentially increasing the financial strain over the extended duration of the program.

Reduced Campus Engagement

Being a part-time student can limit your involvement in campus life and the academic community. Full-time students often benefit from closer relationships with faculty and more opportunities for research collaborations.

Part-time students, especially those juggling a full-time job, might find it harder to engage in these enriching experiences, which can be crucial for academic and professional development.

part time job phd student

Time Management Challenges

Balancing trying to get a PhD with other commitments such as a full-time job or family responsibilities requires exceptional time management skills. The constant juggling act can lead to increased: 

  • depression,
  • and burnout

The negative experience can be particularly during intensive periods of the program like the dissertation phase. This balancing act can also prolong the time it takes to complete your PhD, as you might find yourself able to dedicate less time to your studies than anticipated.

Potential Isolation

Part-time PhD students might experience a sense of isolation from their academic peers and supervisors, particularly if the program has a significant online component or if they can only visit campus infrequently.

This can make it more challenging to build the supportive networks that are often essential for navigating the highs and lows of doctoral study.

Where Are Some Of The Best Part Time PhD Programs In the US?

It could hard to choose what are the best part-time PhD and doctoral programs in the USA, as what constitutes as ‘best’ may be different for many people. Some may consider value, wanting to pay the least for a PhD. Some instead would ask for freedom or maximum flexibility in scheduling. 

Can You Do A PhD Part Time

Dr. Imed Bouchrika , a data scientist from Research.com has however, published a report showcasing some of the best part time PhD programs available in the US. these include: 

  • Keiser University’s part-time online Doctor in Business Administration (DBA) blends theory and practical application. The program, which spans approximately 42 months, is designed for experienced professionals and aspiring academics alike, costing around $31,712.
  • Liberty University offers a Doctor of Strategic Leadership program entirely online, emphasizing essential leadership principles. This flexible program, ideal for students balancing coursework with existing commitments, is structured around 8-week courses, enabling students to progress efficiently.
  • Sullivan University’s part-time PhD in Management is for students looking to enhance their leadership potential in the management field. With a focus on relevant research and real-life applications is tailored to fit around your career commitments.
  • Georgetown University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program caters to nurses aiming for advanced roles, focusing on ethical leadership and care accessibility. This distance-based, online program is designed for completion within 2 years, requiring 57 credits at a cost of $1,450 per credit.
  • Johns Hopkins University’s part-time Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program is designed for early- to mid-career professionals. The program encourages engagement in problem-based learning to address contemporary public health challenges, and could take between 4 to 9 years.

These programs reflect the evolving landscape of doctoral studies, offering paths that accommodate the demands of modern life while maintaining academic excellence.

Part-Time PhD: A Doctorate Degree Worth The Longer Grind

Pursuing a part-time PhD is a viable and increasingly popular option for those balancing professional and personal commitments. This is because many universities now offer the flexibility and support needed to achieve this prestigious degree.

Each program is uniquely designed to integrate seamlessly with your life, ensuring that the pursuit of academic excellence remains accessible and achievable for all aspiring scholars, including you.

part time job phd student

Dr. JW Ong holds academic degrees, including a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from universities in New Zealand, Malaysia, and the UK. He started PhDPursuits.com as a way to share the experience he wish he would have had known before embarking on his PhD.

Lumiere: Paid Part-Time Summer Opportunity for PhD Students – Posted 5/6

May 6, 2024

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Part-time PhD Students who are Employed Outside Boston University Guidelines

1. background.

At Boston University, PhD education is fully immersive; students devote their full-time effort to developing as independent scholars.  Early PhD students take advanced coursework in the discipline or inter-discipline of their program; however, research for and writing of the dissertation is the core of PhD education.   To make a full-time commitment to their educations possible, PhD students at Boston University receive tuition remission and are guaranteed at least four years of stipend support (5-years on the CRC) if they make satisfactory academic progress.  These PhD students also receive health insurance, and the University covers their academic fees.

Given the intensity of PhD education as well as our desire to create a dynamic and dedicated community of PhD students, we generally do not permit part-time PhD education.  It is difficult for a student to be fully engaged and integrated in their program and scholarly field if participating part-time.

Over the years, there have been a small number of requests by employees of research-based companies to undertake part-time PhD education, while continuing to be employed outside of BU.  These prospective students typically seek to do PhD-level research at Boston University to improve their research skills and understanding, and so advance in their careers.   While this is not an unreasonable individual goal, we should rarely offer admissions to such prospective students.  This policy describes the conditions under which part-time PhD enrollment is permitted for those employed outside of BU and specifies the timing and conditions under which these students must become full-time.

2. Covered Parties

a. Domestic students or US permanent residents admitted to PhD programs at BU who seek to retain outside employment while enrolled at BU and conduct a portion of their degree program part-time;

b. Departments and programs at BU who seek to admit these types of students.

3. University Policy

In the rare conditions, where we do permit admission of part-time PhD students, the following rules should apply:

i. Deans (or their designate) will review and approve requests for part-time PhD enrollment, and requests must be made on behalf of students by the given PhD program;

ii. Requests approved by school/college deans must be reviewed and approved by the Associate Provost for Graduate Affairs;

iii. Requests for part-time PhD enrollment must provide a cogent justification, explaining why part-time enrollment is appropriate for the given student, a detailed timeline with appropriate milestones for the part-time status to continue, and how part-time enrollment will not harm the culture or character or completion of the PhD program;

iv. Students enrolled in PhD programs part-time during the period in which a student is pre-dissertation status need to take a lower course load, however defined by their program, than that expected of full-time students;

v. Part-time students doing dissertation research and writing must be registered for continuing study (part/certified full in the technical parlance) and are responsible for continuing study fees.

vi. Part-time PhD students will not receive stipend support, tuition remission, health insurance or fee coverage from Boston University (including through federal grants received by BU principal investigators);

vii. Students near completion of their dissertations may, with approval as outlined above, be part-time for up to two-semesters, if they are not receiving stipend support;

viii. Students may be part-time during the first year after the birth of a child or the adoption of a child; however, (vi) above will apply;

ix. Student dissertation research must be consistent with existing policy on Dissertation Work Outside of Boston University ;

x. Student dissertation research must be consistent with academic norms of academic freedom, openness and transparency;

xi. Enrolled part-time PhD students on the Charles River Campus will count against a program’s PhD slot allocation.

xii. This policy is not intended to prohibit or restrict program and advisor approved internships or other relationships consistent with a student’s professional development.

Additional Resources Regarding This Policy

The challenges associated with part-time PhD education has been repeatedly discussed in Graduate Council, including in 2022. These Guidelines were approved on April 19, 2024.

CIS Research Associate S24 (Student Temporary)

How to apply.

Apply through http://careers.umich.edu/ (click on “APPLY NOW” box on the upper right corner of this page). Applications will only be accepted from current graduate students in Computer and Information Science . Include your resume.

A Ph.D. student is sought for assistance on collaborative projects. Research associates will have the opportunity to participate in the design of faculty-generated projects. Students are paid bi-weekly at an hourly rate determined by the faculty project sponsor.

Responsibilities*

Participate in design of research projects; coordinate the processing and analysis of data; perform complex statistical computations; organize data for the preparation of proposals for new funding; develop experimental procedures and t est controls. Specific activities are dependent upon the faculty research. Perform other duties as assigned or requested by the direct supervisor.

Required Qualifications*

At least an undergraduate degree in engineering or related field. Must be a current Computer and Information Science graduate student at UM-Dearborn. Preference will be given to candidates who are currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program

Self-motivation and willingness to learn new applications and the ability to work independently

Good communication skills

Good organizational and documentation skills for keeping track of data and multiple analysis steps

Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, internet search engines, internet and mobile devices

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

The University of Michigan participates with the federal EVerify system.  Individuals hired into positions that are funded by a federal contract with the FAR EVerify clause must have their identity and work eligibility confirmed by the EVerify system.  This position is identified as a position that may include the EVerify requirement.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

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Graduate Service Assistant

Categories: Student Academic Year, Student Summer Term

Department: Education & Human Development

  • Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States
  • Institutional Student
  • Closing on: Jun 19 2024

Salary/Position Classification

  • $2,388.89 (Doctoral) $1,888.89 (Masters) Monthly, Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime)
  • 20 hours per week
  • 100% Remote Work Availability: No
  • Hybrid Work Availability: No

Purpose of Position

This is a part-time, non-benefited position. Only UND students are eligible to be hired in this position.

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Organizing, tracking and reporting outcomes for educational outreach events Creating engaging educational materials and presentations for small and large groups Presenting in outdoor and indoor classrooms across multi-ages Supporting faculty and staff in outreach events. 

Required Competencies

  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience presenting to large and small groups.
  • Experience creating presentations.
  • Willingness to work outside.

Minimum Requirements

  • Current CEHD graduate student
  • Demonstrated experience in k-12 classroom
  • Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.  This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

For full consideration, applications must be received by the closing date and include the following materials: • Resume Please include in the application if you are currently or have in the past 12 months been employed with the University of North Dakota, the North Dakota University System or any other North Dakota State agency. If so, include which agency/department, as well as how many hours you work a week. Career Services is here to help students looking for student employment positions at UND by offering individual sessions that include: resume, cover letter reviews, and interview preparation. Please schedule an appointment through Starfish or email us at [email protected].

For full consideration, all application materials must be fully submitted by 11:55PM CST on the closing date. Student job openings are posted for a minimum of 3 business days.

Want to be notified of similar opportunities?

Thank you for your interest in applying to the University of North Dakota

Other UND Career Openings

Landscape assistant, food service assistant, engr 203 student grader-laumb, additional information.

Find out why Grand Forks is Cooler .

All information listed in this position announcement will be used by Human Resources, the Hiring Department, and EO/Title IX for screening, interviewing and selection purposes.

Please email the Human Resources Department at  [email protected] or contact us by phone at 701-777-4226. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation to participate in any portion of the University's employment process, including completion of the online application process, please contact our office in advance of your participation or visit. 

Veteran’s Preference

Veterans claiming preference must submit all proof of eligibility by the closing date. Proof of eligibility includes a copy of NGB 22 from National Guard or Reserve (with a unit located in ND) or certification from the applicant's unit command that the individual is expected to be discharged or released from active duty in the uniformed services under other than dishonorable conditions not later than one hundred twenty days after the date of the submission of the certification. If claiming disabled status, proof of eligibility includes a DD-214 and a current letter of disability. 

Confidentiality of Application Materials

Pursuant to NDCC 44-04-18.27, applications and any records related to the applications that identify an applicant are confidential, except records related to the finalists of the position, which are open to the public after the search committee has identified the top three or more finalists who will be invited to campus.

EEO Statement

The University of North Dakota is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or other protected characteristic. Women, minorities, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of other underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants are invited to provide information regarding their gender, race and/or ethnicity, veteran’s status and disability status as part of the application process. This information will remain confidential and separate from your application.

Clery Statement

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, the University of North Dakota publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university’s policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at UND.edu. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the UND Police Department located at 3851 Campus Road, Grand Forks, ND, 58202.

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Congratulations on getting your degree. Now welcome to a tricky job market.

Closeup of a 2024 Graduation Tassel at a graduation ceremony

College seniors will don graduation gowns this month before jumping into a job market that isn’t quite as hungry for their diplomas as it is for skills learned outside of four-year schools.

Employers added 175,000 jobs in April , the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Friday, below analysts’ expectations and a sign that hiring is slowing down across the economy. Some of the strongest gains were in health care, retail and the transportation and warehousing sector — industries where part-time and nondegree roles are plentiful.

“Not every sector is hiring that a new college grad would want to target based on their education level,” Nela Richardson, chief economist at the private payroll processor ADP, told reporters on Wednesday.

Her remarks came on the heels of ADP’s own report this week that found that the biggest private-sector job growth was in leisure and hospitality, construction and several other fields that don’t often require college credentials.

The heavily white-collar information sector, on the other hand, which includes many roles in media and technology, posted job losses and the slowest pay gains since summer 2021, ADP found.

Meanwhile, Friday’s BLS data showed that the number of people employed part-time because their hours had been reduced or they were unable to find full-time jobs ticked up slightly to 4.5 million in April, higher than the 3.9 million level a year ago.

“I don’t think that’s the dream of many college students — to graduate and go part-time immediately,” Richardson said.

Compared with today, the past few graduating classes found “the opportunities were very plentiful,” said Guy Berger, director of economic research at the Burning Glass Institute, a labor market research group. “Employers were falling over themselves to hire them.” Since then, he said, “It’s gotten more challenging for sure.”

A federal survey released this week revealed that total job openings had slowed to a three-year low in March, while total job separations — including quits, layoffs and discharges — decreased by nearly 340,000.

More than 40% of college seniors said they planned to pursue freelance or gig work after walking across the stage, a recent survey by the job marketplace Handshake found. Almost a third expected to do so on top of a full-time role.

While that isn’t exactly a new trend among fresh grads, who often cobble together multiple income streams in their first year or two out of school, it could signal that they’re bracing for a tough long-term job search. It’s something of a silver lining that part-time hiring is still going strong.

Experts said there may be others, too. As layoffs in tech and elsewhere continue, skill vacuums in sectors like health care might create new opportunities to excel quickly, Berger said.

After the 2008-09 financial crisis, “You started seeing a lot of the MBAs [and] Ph.D.s previously going into finance start drifting toward tech,” he said. “The key question is whether we start seeing the reverse, where that talent that was really flowing to tech starts to show up in other sectors.”

The class of 2024 will need to be more nimble and should consider “retooling their skills and orientation toward sectors that are hiring,” Berger added.

That might include strengthening qualities beyond subject-area expertise: The top skills employers of all sizes are prioritizing among new hires include all-purpose basics, like “strong work ethic,” the ability to work on a team and strong interpersonal skills, according to a recent ADP survey .

Mark Hamrick, senior economic analyst at Bankrate, said “the keys for those who are graduating college — as well as members of the workforce aspiring to find new employment — are possessing the right skills, being in the right location and then, obviously, finding their way toward an enterprise organization where they can be a good fit.”

In other words, demand for white-collar workers may be softening , but the fundamentals of job searching still apply. And in any case, the hiring climate for new grads could be a whole lot worse — just ask the nearest millennial .

“The measures speak to a labor market that’s still relatively robust,” Hamrick said.

part time job phd student

J.J. McCorvey is a business and economy reporter for NBC News.

More From Forbes

6 ways to qualify for student loan forgiveness under biden programs.

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UNITED STATES - MAY 3: President Joe Biden in the East Room of the White House on Friday, May 3, ... [+] 2024. The Biden administration has approved upwards of $160 billion in student loan forgiveness, with another plan in the works. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

President Joe Biden has approved billions of dollars in student loan forgiveness for more than 4.5 million borrowers since taking office, mostly through a patchwork of interrelated reforms and executive actions. The administration also just unveiled a new plan last month that, if enacted, will provide even more relief.

But navigating these programs can be challenging for borrowers. Each federal student loan forgiveness program has its own set of rules and eligibility criteria, many of which overlap with other opportunities. Some forms of loan forgiveness may be automatic, while others require taking certain steps like submitting an application, consolidating loans, changing repayment plans, or even going to court.

Certain characteristics of the borrower or their student debt could be a basis for student loan forgiveness, possibly under a few different programs. Here are some of the big ones.

Time Spent In Repayment Can Qualify For Student Loan Forgiveness

Borrowers who have been in repayment for a very long time can potentially qualify for student loan forgiveness under several initiatives.

President Biden’s one-time IDR Account Adjustment program can credit borrowers retroactively with time toward their 20-year or 25-year loan forgiveness term under income-driven repayment plans. Borrowers who receive enough credit to reach the milestone for forgiveness would get an automatic discharge, while other borrowers would need to switch to an IDR plan to make continuing progress. Those who have Direct federal student loans and government-held FFEL loans can receive the benefits of the account adjustment automatically. But borrowers with commercially-owned FFEL loans had to apply to consolidate those loans via the federal Direct consolidation program by the April 30, 2024 deadline.

Borrowers who first entered repayment a long time ago may have another shot at loan forgiveness through Biden’s new mass debt cancellation plan that is currently in the works. The Education Department released draft regulations for this proposed new program last month. This new plan would discharge the federal student debt for undergraduate borrowers who first entered repayment at least 20 years ago, and for graduate school borrowers who entered repayment at least 25 years ago. The new plan is not available yet, but could launch by the fall.

In some cases, borrowers can receive student loan forgiveness sooner than 20 or 25 years. Under Biden’s new SAVE plan, borrowers can qualify for a discharge in as little as 10 years if they originally borrowed $12,000 or less in federal student loans. That timeline increases by one year for every additional $1,000 borrowed. To qualify, borrowers must switch to the SAVE plan if they aren’t already enrolled.

Employment Can Qualify For Student Loan Forgiveness

A borrower’s job can also be a basis for student loan forgiveness, although this typically is in conjunction with time spent in repayment, as well.

Employees of nonprofit or government organizations can potentially qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. The PSLF program can lead to loan forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments, the equivalent of 10 years. The Biden administration implemented two significant “waivers” — the Limited PSLF Waiver, and the IDR Account Adjustment — which temporarily relaxed PSLF rules and expanded access to debt relief. Going forward, PSLF is reverting to stricter rules, although new flexibilities for religious workers, adjunct faculty, and certain contractors are providing new pathways to loan forgiveness under the program.

Separately, the Teacher Loan Forgiveness program can provide up to $17,500 in debt relief after five years of meeting the program’s strict requirements while teaching at an eligible Title I institution. Federal Perkins loans can be eligible for profession-specific cancellation as well. However, for most borrowers with high federal student debt burdens, PSLF will often be the more valuable program to pursue.

Interest Accrual Could Be Basis For Student Loan Forgiveness Under New Biden Plan

Excessive interest accrual or capitalization is not currently a basis for student loan forgiveness under existing programs. However, Biden hopes to change this with his new debt relief initiative.

Biden’s new plan would eliminate up to $20,000 in interest for all borrowers who have experienced interest accrual or capitalization since entering repayment. Borrowers could receive even higher amounts of loan forgiveness if they are enrolled in the SAVE plan or other IDR programs and make $120,000 or less per year individually or if they file taxes as married filing separately, or $240,000 or less per year if they are married and file joint tax returns.

The new student loan forgiveness plan is not available yet. “We will publish a series of proposed rules around these plans in the coming months,” says the Education Department. “Once we have final rules, we will work to implement them as quickly as possible.” Officials have indicated that implementation is expected in the fall.

Hardship As Basis For Student Loan Forgiveness

Currently, there is no administrative discharge or loan forgiveness option for borrowers experiencing hardship. However, borrowers pursuing a bankruptcy discharge of their government-owned federal student debt do have a pathway to relief. New joint policy guidance between the Education Department and the Justice Department allows borrowers to demonstrate that they have an “undue hardship” within the meaning of the bankruptcy code by completing a detailed financial attestation form. This can streamline the process for requesting bankruptcy relief for federal student loan debt, which has historically been an exceptionally challenging process with dismal success rates. Borrowers should consult with a bankruptcy attorney for further guidance.

In addition, Biden’s new student loan forgiveness plan will also provide a path to relief based on hardship. The plan would “cancel student debt for borrowers experiencing hardship in their lives that prevent them from paying back their loans now or in the future,” says the Education Department. Officials have not published updated proposed regulations for this prong of relief. But the department is expected to unveil several factors that could suggest hardship such as age, low income, high expenses or debts, and eligibility for other means-tested government relief.

“Borrowers predicted to fall into default on their student loans would be eligible for automatic relief under the Biden Administration’s proposal,” says the department. “Borrowers experiencing other cost burdens could also receive relief through an application process.” Again, the application likely will not be available until this fall.

Disability As Basis For Student Loan Forgiveness

Having a significant medical impairment is already a basis for student loan forgiveness under the Total and Permanent Disability discharge program. The Biden administration recently updated the TPD discharge application to reflect new regulations that went into effect last summer. These new rules expand eligibility for the program, making it easier for borrowers to qualify. They also remove administrative barriers and automate relief in certain cases.

Separately, a borrower’s medical condition and disability status is also expected to be a possible basis for hardship student loan forgiveness under Biden’s new mass debt relief plan.

Attendance At Certain Schools Can Be Grounds For Student Loan Forgiveness

Borrowers who attended certain schools could also receive student loan forgiveness. And there are multiple pathways for this:

  • Borrowers may qualify for automatic group relief — without having to request or apply for it — if they attended certain national for-profit college chains. These include Corinthian Colleges, ITT Technical Institutes, and, most recently, the Art Institutes .
  • Those who submitted Borrower Defense to Repayment applications by June 2022 and attended one of several dozen approved institutions could get relief under the Sweet v. Cardona settlement.
  • Borrowers not covered by automatic group discharges or the Sweet v. Cardona settlement can apply for loan forgiveness through the Borrower Defense to Repayment or Closed School Discharge programs.
  • Biden’s new loan forgiveness plan will also provide for automatic discharges for borrowers who attended institutions that lost eligibility to participate in the federal student aid program due to poor student outcomes.

You can learn more about federal student loan forgiveness and discharge programs at StudentAid.gov.

Adam S. Minsky

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Canada to introduce new rules around off-campus work hours for international students

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

News release

International students enrich Canada’s social, cultural and economic fabric. That is why, in recent months, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has introduced reforms to the International Students Program, to ensure system integrity while protecting students from fraud and financial vulnerability.

April 29, 2024—Ottawa— International students enrich Canada’s social, cultural and economic fabric. That is why, in recent months, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has introduced reforms to the International Student Program, to ensure system integrity while protecting students from fraud and financial vulnerability.

The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today that the temporary policy allowing students to work more than 20 hours per week off campus will come to an end on April 30, 2024, and it will not be extended. This fall, we intend to change the number of hours students may work off campus per week to 24 hours.

Students who come to Canada must be here to study. As such, allowing students to work up to 24 hours per week will ensure they focus primarily on their studies, while having the option to work, if necessary.

As we head into the summer session, students who have a scheduled academic break can continue working unlimited hours.

In developing this change, we looked at the needs of students, policies in other countries, as well as research that has shown that academic outcomes suffer the more a student works while studying. It also strikes the appropriate balance so students have the option to work without compromising academic outcomes. More details will be shared in due course.

We also continue to develop the new Recognized Institutions Framework to reward post­secondary institutions that set high standards for selecting, supporting and retaining international students. We will continue to support and protect international students from financial vulnerability and keep protecting the integrity of the International Student Program.

“Working off campus helps international students gain work experience and offset some of their expenses. As international students arrive in Canada, we want them to be prepared for life here and have the support they need to succeed. However, first and foremost, people coming to Canada as students must be here to study, not work. We will continue working to protect the integrity of our student program.” – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Quick facts

Recent studies conducted in the US and Canada have shown that there is a considerable decline in academic performance for students working more than 28 hours per week, and that working more than 24 hours per week increases the chances that a student will drop out of their program.

Most countries that welcome international students set limits on the number of hours they may work while they study. Australia recently changed its policy to allow a student to work 48 hours every 2 weeks. In the US, students must meet additional criteria before being permitted to work off campus at all.

In December 2023, the Government of Canada raised the cost-of-living threshold that students must meet to be approved for a study permit so they are financially prepared for life in Canada and are not as dependent on working.

International students who begin a college program delivered through a public-private curriculum licensing arrangement on or after May 15, 2024, will not be eligible for a post-graduation work permit when they graduate. Those who already started this type of program prior to May 15, 2024, will still be able to access a post-graduation work permit, provided they meet all other criteria .

The new letter of acceptance (LOA) verification process has been a success. Since its launch on December 1, 2023, through April 1, 2024, IRCC has

  •  received almost 162,000 LOAs for verification
  • confirmed nearly 142,000 LOAs as valid directly with designated learning institutions (DLIs)
  • identified almost 9,000 LOAs that didn’t match any LOA issued by a DLI or that the DLI had already cancelled before the foreign national applied for a study permit

Associated links

  • Statement: Minister Miller issues statement on international student allocations for provinces and territories
  • Notice: Update on public-private college partnership programs for international students
  • Notice: Additional information about International Student Program reforms
  • News release: Canada to stabilize growth and decrease number of new study permits issued
  • News release: Revised requirements to better protect international students
  • News release: Changes to International Student Program aim to protect students
  • Website: Work off campus as an international student

Aissa Diop Director of Communications Minister’s Office Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [email protected]

Media Relations Communications Sector Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada 613-952-1650 [email protected]

Page details

COMMENTS

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  30. Canada to introduce new rules around off-campus work hours for

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