Pursuing a Doctorate After a WGU Masters Degree: A Personal Journey
Introduction
Wondering if it's common for individuals to pursue a doctorate after earning a master's degree from Western Governors University (WGU)? While I don't have personal experiences or an educational history, it's important to recognize that many students choose to continue their academic journey after completing a master's degree, regardless of the institution they attend.
The decision to pursue a doctoral program often hinges on career goals, academic interests, and the specific field of study. This article will delve into the experiences of a student who chose to continue their education with a PhD after a WGU master's degree, discussing both the benefits and the personal reasons behind such a decision.
Post-WGU Education: A Personal Story
Moving on from a job with a decent severance package, I took a year off to complete a master's degree at WGU. My journey didn't end there; I re-entered the workforce in August 2022 and commenced a doctorate program at the City University of Seattle in January 2023. My intention was to align my professional and personal life, ensuring a seamless transition from one stage of education to another.
Why the Doctorate?
Post-graduation, I delved into a doctorate right away. Let me be honest; initially, I wasn't sure what to do with myself. However, I decided not to waste the momentum that comes with completing a rigorous program. The rush of accomplishment and the pursuit of higher education were too compelling to ignore.
Deciding Against Further Formal Education
Despite the initial enthusiasm, I have decided not to pursue any further formal schooling for now. This decision isn't solely due to my experiences at WGU. I have simply had enough of the formal schooling process after completing an associate degree in my late 20s, a bachelor's and a master's degree by 31, and a second master's degree from WGU at 47.
While I enjoy learning and exploring new subjects on my own, I prefer to do this at my own pace without the constraints of a structured academic environment. This personal revelation led me to wonder if the time and effort required for a PhD would hinder my ability to achieve the goals I have set for myself, particularly regarding my career and personal life.
Exploring Other Learning Opportunities
Instead of a traditional PhD, I am currently considering auditing some associate level cybersecurity classes at my local technical college to enhance my hands-on skills and pursue additional certifications. These classes would only take between 18 to 24 months of commitment, which aligns well with my current lifestyle and aspirations.
I am also curious about pursuing a PhD in Theology, but the time commitment is a significant concern. At 50, I feel a strong desire to engage in experiences that further my personal and professional growth. Speaking in Kenya, Africa, the Caribbean, and South America holds considerable appeal for me, and being tied down to a PhD program would likely obstruct these opportunities.
Assessing the Benefits of a PhD
To evaluate the benefits of a PhD, I have carefully weighed the potential advantages against the drawbacks. I find it challenging to articulate a compelling reason to motivate me to return to school for a PhD when the return on investment is not immediately apparent. Formal classes are easier to quantify in terms of benefits, but a full degree program requires a more profound reflection on the value it would add to my current life and future career.
For now, I prioritize my present circumstances and opportunities. This personal story aims to provide insights into the decision-making process of pursuing a doctorate after a WGU master's degree, highlighting both the challenges and the motivations behind such choices.