Should I Pursue a Doctorate?

The decision to pursue a doctorate should be carefully considered. It offers a unique opportunity to conduct independent research, gain new insights and contribute to scientific advancement. At the same time, it is a demanding journey that requires subject-specific skills as well as specific personal qualities and prerequisites.

Intrinsic motivation and independence

Intrinsic motivation to conduct independent research is a key determinant for a successful doctorate – in other words: a genuine interest in the chosen topic, enjoyment of scientific activities, including analyzing, writing and working with texts and data, as well as the desire to understand, analyze and solve a problem. Anyone embarking on a doctorate will need to be prepared to work independently, assume responsibility for their own project and remain flexible and committed, even during particularly intense phases.

Extrinsic reasons, such as obtaining the academic title of “Doctor”, improved career opportunities or the prospect of a higher salary later on, can also play a role – however, interest in and enjoyment of scientific work must prevail.

Focus and perseverance

A doctorate takes several years to complete. It requires the ability to focus on a topic for a long period of time, cope with setbacks and continuously work on achieving progress. Perseverance is thus one of the key elements for successfully completing a doctorate.

Inquiring and knowledge-sharing

An inquiring mind is the engine that drives scientific work. Those who enjoy conducting research, asking questions and sharing knowledge with other researchers will experience many rewarding moments. Scientific discourse – whether at conferences, in colloquia or within a team – is an integral part of a doctorate.

Realistic expectations and preparation

Having realistic expectations of a doctorate helps to avoid disappointments. This includes finding out about requirements, supervision structures and possible challenges early on. Doctoral candidates are expected to pursue their doctorate with dedication, determination and structure. Among other things, this includes reporting regularly on work progress, taking advantage of both subject-specific and interdisciplinary opportunities, actively participating in conferences and research colloquia and – if employed at the University of Bern and within the scope of the applicable regulations – taking on institute-related tasks, such as teaching work.

Clarification of funding is an important step in preparing for a doctorate. It should be noted here that especially self-funded doctorates – meaning doctorates pursued without employment at the University of Bern – pose a particular financial, organizational and personal challenge. As a result, these doctorates demand an exceptionally high degree of self-discipline, self-motivation and perseverance.