Things K-12 Teachers Need to Know Before Starting a PhD Program

Considering a PhD?

We’re diving into a topic that’s been on many teachers’ minds: starting a PhD program. If you’re a K-12 teacher thinking about this big step, stay tuned because we’re covering the top 10 things you need to know before you begin this journey. Let’s get started!

First, in about year 6, I was ready to quit teaching. I was overwhelmed, burned out, and frustrated. I considered a teaching abroad position, but my partner was the primary income, and we had just bought a house. I contacted my masters advisors, and they suggested I apply for a PhD and teach some undergrad classes as an assistantship to cover my tuition. I didn’t know what a PhD was, but I was desperate and leaped at the opportunity to return to graduate school. In future posts and videos, I can say more about that. Let me know your questions in the comments below.

Note: Here is a video on this topic. Please like and subscribe to this channel to get notices of new posts and videos.

Ten Tips

Number one: Understand your motivation. Why do you want to pursue a PhD? Is it to advance your career, deepen your knowledge, or contribute to research in education? Knowing your ‘why’ will keep you focused and motivated throughout the process. Reflect on your goals and write them down. This will be your anchor when things get challenging.

Number two: Research programs thoroughly. Not all PhD programs are created equal. Look for programs that align with your research interests, offer strong support for students, and have faculty members whose work you admire. Spend time exploring university websites, reaching out to current students, and even talking to professors to get a feel for the program culture and expectations.

Number three: Consider the time commitment. A PhD is a long-term endeavor, often taking 5-7 years to complete. Think about how this will fit into your current life, including your teaching job, family, and personal time. Make sure you’re ready for the dedication and time management skills required to balance teaching and studying.

Number four: Financial implications. PhD programs can be expensive, and while some offer funding, others do not. Consider tuition costs, potential lost income if you reduce your teaching hours, and other expenses. Look into scholarships, assistantships, and grants that can help fund your education. Planning your finances is crucial.

Number five: Your support system. Having a strong support network is vital. This includes family, friends, colleagues, and even online communities of PhD students. Talk to your loved ones about your plans. Their understanding and support can make a huge difference.

Number six: Balancing teaching and research. Juggling a full-time teaching job with PhD research is challenging. You’ll need excellent time management and organizational skills. Create a schedule that allows you to dedicate time to both your students and your studies without burning out.

Number seven: Online vs. on-campus programs. Decide whether an online or on-campus program is better suited to your needs. Online programs offer flexibility, while on-campus programs might provide more opportunities for networking and hands-on research. Consider your learning style and personal circumstances when making this choice.

Number eight: Research opportunities. Look into the types of research projects available and how they align with your interests. A program with diverse research opportunities can provide a richer educational experience. Reach out to potential advisors to discuss possible research topics and see if they align with your interests.

Number nine: Career impact. A PhD can open doors to higher education teaching positions, administrative roles, and advanced research opportunities. Consider how this degree will affect your career trajectory. Think about where you want to be in the next 10 years and how a PhD fits into that vision.

And finally, number ten: Personal growth. Beyond the professional benefits, a PhD journey can be a profound personal growth experience. You’ll develop critical thinking skills, resilience, and a deeper understanding of your field. Embrace the journey, with all its highs and lows, as a transformative experience that will shape you in many ways.

Thanks for reading and watching! If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, drop a comment below. Good luck on your PhD journey, and remember, you’ve got this! See you next time!