Outside Academia

The life of the mind is not for everyone. Popular belief holds it as a rarefied atmosphere free from the concerns of everyday life. In truth, this couldn’t be farther from reality. Egos clash, deadlines are set and there is always a loser. Sure it takes passion and dedication to succeed, but these are the only things that will pull you through, not perks of the job. If you want to get to the top of the ivory tower, you had better be prepared for the climb.

That said, there are certainly some people well cut out for doctorate pursuits. Some love what they are doing enough that they would follow it to the end of the earth. Despite this love, they may not be able to acquire an elusive spot in academia. This kind of obsession is a great reason to go back to school, but it may not guarantee your future as a professional scholar. Before embarking on an academic career, it is important to determine what your strengths and goals are and whether academia will cater to them. Even though you may want to follow in the footsteps of your idols, doing so may prove exceedingly difficult to impossible. Check out the articles and advice below to find out if you are cut out for a lifetime in higher education.

Resources

  • The Confidence-Man

    This blog exposes the underlying uncertainty within academia and the need for students to be flexible in their approaches to work. Having confidence in your abilities is no longer desirable; being able to reinvent yourself and tackle new challenges is.

  • Should New PhDs Consider Non-Academic Careers

    If you’re questioning the feasability of tenure-track, you’re not alone. This article shows sociologists the reasons why the traditional job market may be attractive.

  • On The Fence

    If yuo’re anxious about jumping into the job market, read this article. It discusses nontraditional occupations for academics.

  • Because: A Manifesto

    This article was released anonymously on the internet to fight the injustices of academic work. The reasons why you should leave your university job are laid out point by point.

  • Outside, Over There

    If you’re tired of being stuck in office hours, but worry you aren’t qualified for outside work, read on. PhDs aren’t just for professors and overcoming your fear of nonacademic work is the first step.

  • Survey of PhD Recipients

    This survey compares the number of PhDs awarded over time and the decreasing availability of professorships. It includes advice for graduate students considering extended education.

  • Postdoc Perspective

    There is a certain stigma in the academic community surrounding jobs outside of universities, but this article will help you overcome that fear. Alternatives are not an empty option.

  • The Independent

    While the lack of open professorships is disheartening, the dearth of employers seeking highly educated workers is good news. Jobs outside of academia are more secure and much better paying, and this article offers the reasons why.

  • Students Give Failing Grade to PhD Programs

    This University of Wisconsin study finds that most PhD students are dissatisfied with their programs, and notes that even ten years ago the shortage of tenure track positions was palpable.

  • Doctor Outsider

    If you think a teaching position is the ultimate goal of a graduate program, thing again. This article reveals the tension between academic hubris and getting down to business.

  • How many PhD Students become lecturers

    These charts and graphs give a true representation of how many PhD candidates actually get an academic position, as opposed to finding work outside academia.

  • View from Outside the Ivory Tower

    This professor shares his perspectives on life beyond academia and the prejudice separating the two worlds.

  • Are there too many PhDs?

    This survey says yes and backs up that claim with a graph showing more federal dollars going to older scholars each year, a troubling trend for young guns in the academe. Working at a disadvantage, younger PhD holders in academia have some substantial challenges to overcome.

  • Why Very Few People Need a Ph.D.

    The author of this article contrasts the reasons for getting a Ph.D. with what a Ph.D. will actually help you achieve.

  • Humble Advice for PhD Students of Engineering

    This article suggests that students should combat their lack of job prospects by becoming entrepreneurs, and use their specialized knowledge to change the world.

  • Yes, we Have a PhD Glut…

    THis article offers some advice for those worried about the world having too many PhDs: Don’t fret, adopt some real-life working skills and put your expertise to use.