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Pros & Cons: Full Time vs. Part Time PhD

Part-time vs. full-time phd: which one is right for you.

Returning to school can be a huge decision, especially if you’re a working adult. There are many factors to consider, including how you’ll find the time to do the required work. Because of this, many people may struggle to decide between a full-time and part-time PhD program.

The good news is that the only true difference between the two types of programs is the length of time it’ll take you to complete your work. The coursework and other components are typically the same.

This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of committing to a full or part-time PhD program so that you can decide which option is best for your goals and lifestyle.

What’s the Difference Between a Part-Time and Full-Time PhD?

The only notable difference between a part-time and full-time PhD is the amount of time it takes you to complete your degree. You’ll still be responsible for completing the required research and coursework. 

That being said, the experience of a part-time PhD program may feel significantly different from that of a full-time student because:

• Full-time PhD candidates have more time to spend on their research and coursework
• Part-time candidates may have other commitments competing with schoolwork
• Financial assistance opportunities may vary depending on your program choice
• Research for a full-time student might be more immersive 

The best choice for you is going to be the option that allows you to balance your educational commitments with the rest of your life. To give you a better understanding of what these educational obligations might be, let’s take a deep dive into full and part-time PhD programs.

The Ins and Outs of Full-Time PhD Programs

A full-time PhD program is similar to a full-time job. It’s typically an immersive experience with two main goals:

• Grow a student’s knowledge about an important topic
• Provide training to improve skills through research and collaboration 

The path to these outcomes can be quite lengthy. Although your specific road might look a little different based on the institution and field of study you choose, the typical PhD program includes: 1

• Coursework – You’ll likely begin your program by taking graduate courses in your field to expand your knowledge base. Courses in research methods and scholarly writing will also be part of your curriculum. These are important preparation for the writing you’ll be expected to do as you progress through your program.
• Research – The time you spend outside of the classroom will mainly be used to research for your dissertation. The skills you acquire through your coursework will help you unearth sources, conduct experiments, or perform other research tasks.
• Meetings – You’ll also have regularly scheduled meetings with your PhD supervisor. The frequency and length of these meetings will depend on your institution and program. Here, you’ll discuss your progress, review your research, and get advice about your work.
• Teaching or fieldwork – Some PhD candidates are required to teach a certain number of classes during their time with an institution. Others must complete an internship, fieldwork, or another project. Your requirements will depend on the program you’re enrolled in and the institution you attend.
• Writing the dissertation – The pinnacle of your PhD program is, of course, the dissertation. This can take years to complete and is often the factor that extends the length of time it takes someone to finish their studies. It’s the compilation of all of your hard work, research, analysis, and writing.
• Defending your dissertation – Once you make that final edit to your dissertation, you’re almost finished. However, there’s one crucial step remaining: your dissertation defense. This is an oral exam where you present and answer questions about your research to a committee. The committee then decides if you have passed or if corrections are needed.

After the defense and committee approval, you’ll submit the final copy of your manuscript and be awarded your coveted degree. 

Required Coursework

Every PhD program is going to look a little different depending on your field of study and institution. A very general example of required coursework for a full-time student might look something like this:

• Year 1 – Two full semesters of coursework, including some specialized courses in your areas of study. More generalized research design and research methods courses may take up a significant portion of your classroom time.
• Year 2 – The second year will also contain two full semesters of classes. You’ll take more courses focused specifically on researching and developing a proposal. This will prepare you to begin working on your dissertation.
• Year 3 – Your course load will be smaller as your dissertation research and writing begins. If teaching, clinical work, or lab work is required in your program, you’ll work on these tasks while also working on your dissertation.
• Year 4 and beyond – You might have a few remaining courses to take, but your time after year three is primarily dedicated to your research and writing until your dissertation is complete.

Weekly Commitment

A full-time PhD program can be an intense endeavor. It requires approximately the same amount of time as a full-time job each week—about 35 to 40 hours. The way those hours are distributed depends on where you are in your program. For the first two years, the bulk of your time will likely be spent in the classroom.

After that, you’ll likely be researching, writing, and completing other required duties. 

Completion Timeframe

According to the National Science Foundation’s “Survey of Earned Doctorates”, there were 55,283 completed doctorate degrees in the United States in 2020. 2 The median length of time from beginning to completion was 5.8 years. At a minimum, most PhD programs take about 4 years, but even full-time students can take longer.

The time it takes you to complete your PhD as a full-time student is heavily dependent on how quickly and effectively you complete your dissertation. Factors that can delay completion include:

• You struggle with your research
• Writing takes longer than expected
• Your dissertation requires significant edits
• Life circumstances interfere with your studies

It’s important to remember that taking longer to finish your degree doesn’t diminish the accomplishment. Don’t get discouraged if you need to make revisions or if your research isn’t finished as quickly as you’d hoped.

A Full-Time PhD Program Might be Right for You If…

Students who successfully enroll in full-time PhD programs do so with the understanding that it’s a significant time commitment. Full-time programs might be best suited for students who:

• Don’t hold a full-time job
• Have the financial support needed
• Can commit as many as 40 hours per week to their school work
• Have significant schedule flexibility to accommodate classes, research, and other obligations

You might also begin as a full-time student and later make the switch to part-time if your circumstances change.

The Ins and Outs of Part-Time PhD Programs

Part-time PhD programs can offer students a little more flexibility. In fact, no two part-time PhD students are likely to have a program that looks the same. However, there are a few common traits among part-time PhD programs, such as:

• More flexibility in coursework
• Less of a financial burden all at once since costs are spread out over a longer period
• Less disruptive of your other life commitments
• More time to research

In a part-time program, you’ll likely have more time to attend to your other obligations. The trade-off is that you’ll be a student for far longer than you would if you attend school full-time. The work you must do is the same as if you attend full-time, it’s just spread out over more years.

Some key differences in the time commitment include:

• Classroom time  – You’ll take the same classes as a full-time student but instead of finishing most of the core work in the first year or two, it might take you three or four years.
• Weekly hours – If you’re a part-time student, you’ll likely spend half the hours working. This equates to about 15 to 20 hours per week that you’ll need to dedicate to school. Of course, this time might change depending on how your program and institution define part-time.
• Years to complete – The timeframe for part-time students to complete a PhD varies. The “Survey of Earned Doctorates” doesn’t differentiate between part and full-time students in its completion data. Anecdotally, a part-time PhD student might take anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more to complete their degree. 3

The biggest takeaway about part-time PhD programs is that they’re highly variable, especially when it comes to completion times.

A Part-Time PhD Program Might be Right for You If…

Many students can benefit from the flexibility offered by a part-time PhD program. You might be the perfect candidate if you:

• Have a family
• Need time for other obligations
• Prefer to work more slowly

Keep in mind that you might be able to start slowly and increase your workload as you go through your programs and life changes.

Find Your Perfect PhD Match

A PhD program can be a challenging and time-consuming commitment, whether you’re a full-time or part-time student. In fact, there isn’t a significant difference between the two, other than the time it takes to finish your degree. A part-time option can allow working adults or those with other life obligations to work toward a doctoral degree at a slower pace that’s more conducive to their needs.

If you’re considering a full or part-time PhD program, Alliant International University might be the right choice for you. Check out our offerings today to see if we’re a perfect match for your educational goals.

Sources: 

•  “The PhD Experience: A Review of the Factors Influencing Doctoral Students’ Completion, Achievement, and Well-Being.” International Journal of Doctoral Studies. 2018. http://ijds.org/Volume13/IJDSv13p361-388Sverdlik4134.pdf . Accessed January 27, 2022.
•  “Survey of Earned Doctorates.” National Science Foundation. November 30, 2021. https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf22300/data-tables . Accessed January 27, 2022.
•  “How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD Degree?” U.S. News and World Report. August 12, 2019. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/articles/2019-08… . Accessed January 27, 2022.

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A comprehensive guide to part-time PhDs

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

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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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• 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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The Pros and Cons of a Part-time PhD

Blog summary, it is easier on the pocket:, you don’t have to pause your life:, you get the flexibility:, the boundaries keep extending:, you get more time to find yourself:, the chance of it not being possible:, it is longer:, life can be disruptive:, the fear of missing out:, study phd without leaving your job.

Yes, you can pursue a PhD program part-time while working. A part-time PhD contains all the attributes and components of traditional PhD programs but comes with a flexible schedule . Notably, part-time doctoral programs are by no means easier than full-time ones. Both require effort and passion for completing.

Before you enroll in a PhD program , ask yourself, “what are the benefits of PhD degree?”, “is getting a PhD worth it?”,  Let us consider the positives and negatives of part-time PhD programs.

It does not mean that part-time studies cost less than a full-time program. On the contrary, when comparing the programs’ yearly fees, part-time costs just half as much as a full-time program. But a part-time program also takes up to twice as much time as a full-time program to complete.

When you look at the amount you pay, both programs are almost equally costly. However, it is easier to pay for the part-time program as it extends over a more extended period.

When you pursue a full-time PhD, you will have to spend all your time in the program. You will not be able to work. If your life change’s personal or financial circumstances change, you will not be able to continue your PhD program.

But in the case of part-time PhD programs like from Taksha Smartlabz in association with the University of Central Nicaragua (TSL-UCN), you will be able to handle uncertainties. Moreover, you will also be able to work while on a part-time program, making it even easier.

A part-time degree does not mean you have to keep it part-time always. If you can spend more time concentrating on your doctoral program, you are free to do so. In addition, you can vary the tempo of the program to suit your needs and commitments.

Some institutions even allow you to switch to a full-time program if you can secure funding or your priorities change. You could even avail of this as your primary plan if you are initially unable to join a full-time program.

As a PhD candidate, you will be working toward extending the knowledge base of your field. When the boundaries keep expanding, opportunities keep popping up. You will get exposure to such opportunities during the course of your PhD program. Being a part of a more extended PhD program will get you higher exposure.

Because of the period of the program and the flexibility it offers, you will get time to reflect on your future. You get more time to discover the world beyond academics. You will also earn far more exposure to what the degree will offer you in the future.

PhD programs online are not easy by any means. They require effort no matter what the mode of study is. However, for some, it can be easy to handle why some might find it hard. Additionally, some fields work out better than others in the part-time mode.

If you are a student looking to fly abroad for a part-time PhD, make sure that the country you have chosen offers student visas for the program. Some countries only provide student visas for full-time PhD students.

Yes, this is a con. Although it makes it easier to pay the fees and presents more research opportunities, there are some setbacks. Your research will take longer and will sometimes be at a slower pace.

The longer duration of research could also mean that there will be higher costs involved. You should also make sure that you stay on track during the years so that you do not drift away from the program.

The feeling of being disconnected from your research is also a possibility because of the slow pace. If you plan to complete your PhD through a part-time program, you will have to set your priorities straight and give your research the attention it demands.

A part-time doctoral program may be easier to handle, along with your commitments in life and work. However, because of its longer duration, life events can be very disruptive to the program. You will have to find a way to handle the degree during setbacks in your life.

Being a part-time PhD student, you will come across full-time students too. Their academic lives will be different from yours. You will have to understand how they are able to move ahead quickly.

The people who started their PhD at the same time as you will be completing their program when you are only halfway through. They spend twice as much time as you in their academics, and they most probably do not have a work-life to handle.

The takeaway:

There are definite pros and cons to pursuing a part-time PhD program . You will have to weigh the facts and see if the lifestyle will suit you. Before you enroll, research the programs you have shortlisted and compare them.

Take into consideration money, time, effort, and other attributes before you register for the program. Even after all your research and consideration, your decision is what matters.

Register now to the PhD program of TSL-UCN to realize your dream of getting a doctorate.

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The secret life of part-time PhD students

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In this post Yasmin and Molly discuss their experiences of doing a part-time PhD. They talk about what this includes as well as giving some of their top tips for those considering going down this route. 

Who we are:

Yasmin: I am a Research Assistant running the Children of TEDS ( CoTEDS ) project . I manage study design, participant recruitment, data collection and data management. I also supervise undergraduate placement students who help a lot with these jobs. This has given me time over the past four years to also complete a part-time PhD. My thesis is focussed on understanding associations between parent and offspring anxiety and depression.

Molly: I am also a Research Assistant, running the Genetic Links to Anxiety and Depression (GLAD) Study, with similar responsibilities to Yasmin. I work with a team of other staff members and placement students to ensure that the study is running smoothly and implement any changes in study design or recruitment strategy. I have one day a week set aside to work on my PhD and switch over to writing and working with the GLAD data. My research is investigating phenotyping methods for anxiety and depression and the symptom presentation of these disorders.

How does a part-time PhD work?

In the UK, part-time students typically have at least six years to complete their PhD. It is possible to do it in less time if you have the right support. The minimum time allowance for part-time students at King’s is 4 years.

You may have set days of the week to do your research, or you may have to slot it in throughout the week alongside other jobs. Whichever way you do it, you must be disciplined in carving out time to focus on each job. You need supportive supervisors and line managers who understand your workload.

Multitasking comes with the territory as a part-time PhD student, and you continuously have to plan ahead. By the end, if all else fails, you can compete for a place in the Guinness World Book of Records for highest number of weekly schedules and to-do lists ever written (see photo for a typical desk scene).

Three advantages that we have enjoyed as part-time students*:

*Disclaimer – we both have Research Assistant jobs alongside our PhDs, so our experiences are specific to this. There are lots of other reasons why you might do a PhD part-time, for example if you are raising a family or have other commitments outside of academia

1. Getting experience with a wide range of tasks

Part-time PhD students may also be working, either full- or part-time. This gives you the opportunity to get hands-on experience with a wider variety of tasks and projects, and it can be a welcome distraction from PhD work.

2. Employability

Following on from advantage 1, your experience is a great CV booster. You will develop a broad range of skills and experience. If you’re an RA and PhD student, then you’ll have experience working closely with both research teams and academics at all stages of research. This is not only a bonus for your job applications, but can also give you more opportunities to network and build relationships with other academics that can help you with your career long term.

3.  Financial stability

It’s no secret that a PhD stipend can be difficult to live on, particularly in London. It’s not all about the money, but having a salary helps negate some of the financial stress (and general stress, when it funds a nice holiday!).

“You will develop a broad range of skills and experience.”

Three challenges that we have faced as part-time students:

1. Time management

It can be difficult having so many jobs competing for your attention during a time of intense training and learning. Opportunities to procrastinate are vast, as you can always switch to a different job when one gets too difficult. It can be hard to save days each week to just do one job, but changing location can help to switch focus (Molly works from home on Fridays to create separation; working in the library can help as well). Set short and long-term goals to keep track of tasks and make sure that your PhD work progresses. Agree deadlines with your supervisor to create accountability for yourself. Remember that research is unpredictable and projects usually take longer than expected!

2. Self-motivation

This applies to all PhD students, but can be exacerbated with part-time PhD work. You may work more independently from other students (physically in terms of your desk, and temporally in terms of your timeframe). We have enjoyed having colleagues who aren’t PhD students, to provide a welcome break and change of perspective and pace! It is important to go to talks and events that inspire you and remind you of all the reasons why you chose to do both your job and PhD in the first place.

3. Not being able to do everything

As part-time students we can’t always do the things that full-time PhD students fill their time with, such as teaching, conference planning, research placements and reviewing papers. We sometimes miss events, training and seminars during working hours and don’t always have funding for courses or travel. 

“It is important to go to talks and events that inspire you.”

Top tips for anyone starting a part-time PhD

1. Find ways to attend conferences, courses and training

Make sure you identify the key training needs that you require and keep an eye out for funding opportunities if you need them. This could be by identifying travel awards or funding pots, or negotiating with your supervisors for support. Keep in mind that conferences can be as important as training, as they allow you to network and get inspired by/learn from other researchers in your field. Also keep an eye out for events, training, career services, etc that are offered by your university and take advantage (lots of them are free, like these for King’s College London students).

2. Don’t compare your research output to other students

Every PhD is different and everyone is gaining their own unique set of skills and experiences. Keep in mind that your PhD is only the start of your career, not the end. If you want to learn a new skill but don’t have time during your PhD, then you can set that as a goal during a post-doc position or the next stage in your career.

3. Remember that you’re a student too, and look for what support is available to you

Ask for help. You may be able to work it out by yourself, but it can be faster to speak to someone else, even just to ask for advice on papers to read or resources to access. Building relationships with other PhD students or early career researchers is particularly helpful to build a support network and share knowledge of techniques or ideas. If you aren’t sure where to start, your supervisors can also help by introducing you to their other students.

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Studying for a part-time PhD: the challenges and the benefits

A part-time phd yes, it can be done and it can be incredibly rewarding writes, arthur krebbers.

Arthur Krebbers

I’ve experienced many unexpected hurdles while doing my PhD part-time and I’m sure that you will too. It is often difficult to keep your spirits high while doing a part-time PhD but the reward is substantial. 

It is also helpful to hear about other people's challenges before you embark on your own journey. 

One of my biggest challenges was finding a PhD supervisor. I had contacted a professor at a well-established London business school. She seemed supportive and agreed to meet. The conversation flowed well – until I mentioned the “P-word”. “Seriously, part-time?” she said, surprised. “Look, what you are looking to do is simply impossible. I tried to oversee a part-time PhD degree, with a brilliant student. It all began very well, but after a few months they just couldn’t keep up. Too much pressure from their work.” I’d hit my first dead end.

Fortunately, after persistent searching I found an ideal match. All in all, this took about two months. I cast my net wide, reviewing the full faculty of all the top 20 European finance schools. My goal being to find those that were 1) interested in my field of study (the European debt markets) and 2) open to part-time PhD degrees. Arriving at a shortlist of supervisors, I emailed and spoke to potential supervisors until I had made a final decision. Supervisor, check!

What is a PhD? Advice for PhD students

My next hurdle was in my place of work. I had heard of managers who wouldn’t consider a degree valuable if it wasn’t chartered. And other old-school types who, on hearing about an employee’s desire to “learn more”, simply dish out extra work assignments for them. They seem to live by the attitude that they don’t need any doctors in their workplace. 

I had to therefore sow the seeds carefully. My sales pitch was full of corporate-speak, linking my degree to my division’s strategic objectives and the competitive international landscape. Did you know, for instance, that two-thirds of German CEOs have a PhD? Last time I checked, their economy is doing pretty well. 

With employer support in the bag, I was ready to start juggling a research degree with a professional career. I became a compulsive planner; the PhD felt like a constant guilty conscience and I always felt like I could be studying more. The bulk of my research was done on Saturdays, which I occasionally topped up during the evenings, Sundays or dedicated holidays.

My work chipped in too, granting me two weeks of research leave a year – as part of a tailor-made support agreement that I had negotiated with my managers. They became very supportive of my endeavour, with the understandable condition that my job remained my priority. Banker first, researcher second.

Despite my limited free time, I realised that moderation was important and tried to pace myself. Long bouts of study would leave me insufficiently energised for the work week or put excessive pressure on my social life.

I wasn't in a rush. Being a part-timer, I did not have the same money stresses as my full-time peers. Living expenses were paid for through the day job and tuition fees were covered by my employer. I intended to enjoy both the process and the outcome. “What is a few months delay in a lifetime anyway?”

With corporate support and sponsorship in the bag, I was ready to be initiated into the academic community. This did not happen overnight. I only had one foot in the faculty, while using the other to run the rat race. The secluded professorial life seemed idyllic, spending days researching and working. However, when I heard esteemed lecturers conferring about the “quickest ways to get to British Airways Platinum status” or the “most lucrative visiting scholar jobs” I grew disheartened.

Realising that academics were also human was an important step for me. My interaction had to go beyond just talking about my thesis. A pint and a chat about the Premier League did wonders for my research collaboration. This interpersonal approach helped to solidify my academic relationships, both with my supervisors and other researchers.

And of course you won’t just be speaking to academics day in and day out. You’ll still have to make time for socialising with your family and friends, and often they may not quite understand how a part-time PhD works. 

For example, asking “what will the research be about?” can be like asking a new parent “what will your child be like when he is five years old?” The doctoral process is highly iterative – it involves constant rewriting and refocusing.

Or wanting to know “when will you be done?”. This is not too different from asking an entrepreneur “when will you raise £1 million?” It depends on many factors. Not least the opinion of the supervisor, being your gatekeeper to that gold-plated doctoral certificate.

And, crucially, it also depends on your ability to be able to overcome all these hurdles and dedicate yourself to your research. 

Read more:  The romance versus the reality of a PhD

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A degree candidate who wishes to enroll as a part-time student must complete an application for part-time study and submit it to the Office of Academic Programs for approval. See the academic calendar for deadlines.

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Home > ETD > 3592

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

I'm still valid: an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study of part-time phd students' motivation and satisfaction..

Heather A Turner , University of Louisville Follow

Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation

Document type.

Doctoral Dissertation

Degree Name

Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development

Degree Program

Educational Leadership and Organizational Development, PhD

Committee Chair

Pifer, Meghan J.

Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)

Immekus, Jason C.

Committee Member

Hirschy, Amy S.

Buckley, Jessica B.

Author's Keywords

doctoral education; nontraditional students; part-time; motivation; satisfaction

Doctoral attrition rates are consistently documented at approximately 50% in the United States, and attrition rates are typically higher for all students who pursue degrees on a part-time basis, regardless of degree level. Yet an increasing number of students are deciding to pursue research doctorates on a part-time basis. This growth in the part-time PhD student population requires an understanding of the factors that affect their persistence. I investigated part-time PhD student persistence through an explanatory sequential mixed methods approach to understanding the relationship between motivation and satisfaction through the lens of Self-Determination Theory. Findings suggest that part-time PhD students are motivated by knowledge advancement and relationships with others, yet they may be lacking in access to community in ways that contribute to negative outcomes physically, psychologically, and intellectually. Like many doctoral students, they are demotivated when they feel isolated, exhausted, and overwhelmed; part-time enrollment exacerbates these feelings. Motivation to enroll part-time is largely dictated by family circumstances (e.g., financial need, caregiving responsibilities) and a desire for career advancement. Like motivation, satisfaction is primarily derived through relationships with others, feeling supported, and personal and professional growth. However, a lack of community access inhibits part-time student socialization, and may lead to untested assumptions regarding faculty roles and the purpose of research doctoral education. Additionally, part-time students appear reticent to report feelings of overall dissatisfaction, despite indicating feeling dissatisfied with many components of the doctoral experience. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Recommended Citation

Turner, Heather A, "I'm still valid: an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study of part-time phd students' motivation and satisfaction." (2021). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 3592. https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/3592

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Part-time PhD programme

Push the boundaries of philosophical thinking to address global challenges

Ever thought of working towards a PhD alongside your fulltime job? Our parttime PhD programme offers a unique opportunity to obtain a doctorate degree to enhance your professional career. Our programme is designed to equip you with the skills necessary to research and complete a PhD project. We offer individual supervision by professors of our faculty that will be tailored to your own work commitments and according to your preferred study schedule. As a PhD candidate you will be facilitated with access to the library and IT-facilities and research seminars organised by our school.

Building on their professional experience in various fields (teaching, policy, media, societal debate), parttime PhD candidates contribute to our research ambitions, strengthen our impact and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

How to apply Applicants are advised to write a short research proposal which fits in one of our research programmes of our school (more information about our research programmes can be found here ). Then, send your research proposal, together with a CV and motivation letter to the potential supervisor. If the potential supervisor is interested in supervising the research project, he will submit your research proposal to the admissions coordinator (Marloes Westerveld). If the Graduate Director and the Director positively advise on the project, the project will be elaborated.

When the research proposal is finished the candidate can start her or his research. The candidate will receive a hospitality agreement which will give access to the library and an ESPhil e-mail address. The candidate is required to pay a tuition fee per year:

• Year 1: € 2100;
• Year 2 and 3: € 1700;
• Year 4 onwards: € 800;
• Waivers or reduced fees for candidates who lack funding opportunities can be proposed

The programme starts in September (application deadline 31 July ) and February (application deadline 31 december ). The programme can enroll a maximum of 10 candidates.   

Parttime PhD candidates will not receive a salary or scholarship, and thus must be financially independent. Only candidates with a university Master’s degree are eligible for this programme.

Participants in the program PhD’s for HBO teachers funded by NWO or on the basis of a voucher, are exempted from tuition fees because their part-time position is already funded on the basis of detailed requirements and commitments by NWO. 

• Supervision by a promotor and co-promotor on the basis of a training and supervision plan;
• Mutual learning via program meetings (thrice a year) to share experiences and interact;
• Participation in ESPhil seminars and lectures;
• Enrolment in research schools (OZSW, EGSH);  
• Access to research facilities (e.g. EUR library and electronic journals);
• Special skills training and, if relevant, participation in Master courses;
• Support in writing academic papers and presenting at academic meetings and conferences;
• Support in publishing your thesis;
• Formal public defence ceremony after finishing the thesis.

More information can be obtained via Ms. Marloes Westerveld ( [email protected] ), please mention ‘Parttime PhD programme’ in the subject.

General information:

• Degree: PhD
• Format: part-time
• Duration: 4-6 years
• Requirement: Master’s degree
• Start: September or February

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• 12 March 2024

Bring PhD assessment into the twenty-first century

You have full access to this article via your institution.

Innovation in PhD education has not reached how doctoral degrees are assessed. Credit: Dan Dunkley/Science Photo Library

Research and teaching in today’s universities are unrecognizable compared with what they were in the early nineteenth century, when Germany and later France gave the world the modern research doctorate. And yet significant aspects of the process of acquiring and assessing a doctorate have remained remarkably constant. A minimum of three years of independent study mentored by a single individual culminates in the production of the doctoral thesis — often a magisterial, book-length piece of work that is assessed in an oral examination by a few senior academic researchers. In an age in which there is much research-informed innovation in teaching and learning, the assessment of the doctoral thesis represents a curious throwback that is seemingly impervious to meaningful reform.

But reform is needed. Some doctoral candidates perceive the current assessment system to lack transparency, and examiners report concerns of falling standards ( G. Houston A Study of the PhD Examination: Process, Attributes and Outcomes . PhD thesis, Oxford Univ.; 2018 ). Making the qualification more structured would help — and, equally importantly, would bring the assessment of PhD education in line with education across the board. PhD candidates with experience of modern assessment methods will become better researchers, wherever they work. Indeed, most will not be working in universities: the majority of PhD holders find employment outside academia.

Collection: Career resources for PhD students

It’s not that PhD training is completely stuck in the nineteenth century. Today’s doctoral candidates can choose from a range of pathways. Professional doctorates, often used in engineering, are jointly supervised by an employer and an academic, and are aimed at solving industry-based problems. Another innovation is PhD by publication, in which, instead of a final thesis on one or more research questions, the criterion for an award is a minimum number of papers published or accepted for publication. In some countries, doctoral students are increasingly being trained in cohorts, with the aim of providing a less isolating experience than that offered by the conventional supervisor–student relationship. PhD candidates are also encouraged to acquire transferable skills — for example, in data analysis, public engagement, project management or business, economics and finance. The value of such training would be even greater if these skills were to be formally assessed alongside a dissertation rather than seen as optional.

And yet, most PhDs are still assessed after the production of a final dissertation, according to a format that, at its core, has not changed for at least half a century, as speakers and delegates noted at an event in London last month on PhD assessment, organized by the Society for Research in Higher Educatio n. Innovations in assessment that are common at other levels of education are struggling to find their way into the conventional doctoral programme.

Take the concept of learning objectives. Intended to aid consistency, fairness and transparency, learning objectives are a summary of what a student is expected to know and how they will be assessed, and are given at the start of a course of study. Part of the ambition is also to help tutors to keep track of their students’ learning and take remedial action before it is too late.

PhD training is no longer fit for purpose — it needs reform now

Formative assessment is another practice that has yet to find its way into PhD assessment consistently. Here, a tutor evaluates a student’s progress at the mid-point of a course and gives feedback or guidance on what students need to do to improve ahead of their final, or summative, assessment. It is not that these methods are absent from modern PhDs; a conscientious supervisor will not leave candidates to sink or swim until the last day. But at many institutions, such approaches are not required of PhD supervisors.

Part of the difficulty is that PhD training is carried out in research departments by people who do not need to have teaching qualifications or awareness of innovations based on education research. Supervisors shouldn’t just be experts in their field, they should also know how best to convey that subject knowledge — along with knowledge of research methods — to their students.

It is probably not possible for universities to require all doctoral supervisors to have teaching qualifications. But there are smaller changes that can be made. At a minimum, doctoral supervisors should take the time to engage with the research that exists in the field of PhD education, and how it can apply to their interactions with students.

There can be no one-size-fits-all solution to improving how a PhD is assessed, because different subjects often have bespoke needs and practices ( P. Denicolo Qual. Assur. Educ. 11 , 84–91; 2003 ). But supervisors and representatives of individual subject communities must continue to discuss what is most appropriate for their disciplines.

All things considered, there is benefit to adopting a more structured approach to PhD assessment. It is high time that PhD education caught up with changes that are now mainstream at most other levels of education. That must start with a closer partnership between education researchers, PhD supervisors and organizers of doctoral-training programmes in universities. This partnership will benefit everyone — PhD supervisors and doctoral students coming into the research workforce, whether in universities or elsewhere.

Education and training in research has entered many secondary schools, along with undergraduate teaching, which is a good thing. In the spirit of mutual learning, research doctoral supervisors, too, will benefit by going back to school.

Nature 627 , 244 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00718-0

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The PhD in History and Philosophy of Science is now offered as a part-time degree.

It is normally expected that applicants for the part-time PhD would be employed in a field related to HPS. Part-time students are also expected to play a full role in the life of the Department, for example via regular attendance at reading groups and seminars.

Most of the requirements for admission to part-time PhD studies, as well as regulations governing the degree, are the same as for the full-time PhD. Supervisors are appointed in the same way, and every part-time PhD student must be a member of a College.

However, there are a number of differences and special requirements.

Entry requirements

It is normally expected that part-time PhD applicants would have taken the Department's MPhil or Part III course and achieved a first class pass.

Length of course

For the part-time PhD the minimum research requirement is fifteen terms (i.e. five years). This is the total number of terms required to complete the PhD. Formal induction takes place in the first week of Michaelmas Term.

Residence requirements

Part-time students have no residence requirements, but are required to attend the University on a regular basis as prescribed by their Degree Committee. The HPS Degree Committee expects supervisors to articulate their expectations for time in Cambridge clearly to part-time PhD students. Overseas applicants need to provide evidence that they have received permission to remain in the UK for the minimum period required to complete the degree. The Student Registry can advise on this and related matters.

The total University Composition Fee for the degree is the same, whether taken by the full-time or the part-time route. In practice, this normally means that 60% of the full-time fee is charged for each term of registration as a part-time student. College fees are charged on the same basis.

Application procedure

When completing the online application form, applicants should give their reasons for choosing part-time study.

All applicants for the part-time PhD must attend an admission interview. Applicants will be advised when, where and how this interview will be conducted once their application for admission has been assessed.

Arrangements with employers

Employed applicants should provide a letter from their employer stating that they will be allowed time off to attend the University, as required, for the whole duration of their course. If research for the degree is to be conducted in the workplace, applicants must agree this with their employer and provide evidence of this consent in their application. The Department will need to assure itself that the supervisor will be granted reasonable access to the workplace on request.

Intellectual property rights

Employed applicants should note that arrangements for intellectual property rights must be agreed in advance. Applicants must ensure that their employer reads this page as well as the information on the Postgraduate Admissions website relating to this issue.

If the employer is not asserting any rights in the intellectual property created in the course of the research, a statement to this effect must be provided in writing within the application. Generally, this is expected to be the case where the employer is neither paying for the time of study nor contributing to fees. In the absence of any claim on the intellectual property by the employer, the position on intellectual property is identical to that of a full-time PhD student. More information on this is available on the Postgraduate Admissions website.

If the employer is claiming rights in the intellectual property, the applicant and the employer must sign a short agreement which, among other things, confirms the level of any sponsorship by the employer and also sets out the position on intellectual property. This is administered through the University's Research Operations Office . While the employer may wish to retain ownership in any intellectual property created by the student, the University will also want to ensure that regard is given to the intellectual property rights in any contributions from the supervisor or other members of the University, as well as its obligations to external sponsors. The University will also wish to make sure that the employer cannot restrict the use or exploitation of the student's share in any collaborative project in which the student takes part.

Financial arrangements

Candidates must produce a financial guarantee, or proof of means confirmed by a bank manager or other appropriate person, to cover at least the fees. The Postgraduate Admissions Office requires a guarantee based on capital for the fees element, but maintenance costs can be covered from various sources including income from the student's employment or from a partner. The Student Registry does not usually entertain requests for assistance with maintenance in case of hardship.

Although the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) funds part-time students, part-time awards provide only 50% of the full-time rate of tuition fees. This may cause difficulties since the University charges part-time students 60% of the full-time rate.

Progression from year to year

Annual progress paper.

At the end of each calendar year (both before and after registration), the student and supervisor are required to meet to consider a brief but formal progress paper prepared by the student. The supervisor may invite other advisors as appropriate. 

Registration

The registration of part-time PhD students is the same as for full-time students except in the scheduling. Part-time students are required to undergo a registration exercise by the end of the fifth term if possible, and certainly by the end of the seventh term.

Registration, residence and submission dates

Registration and submission dates are based on the minimum research requirement of the PhD, which is three years of full-time research or five years of part-time research.

Early submission: exemption for a qualification already obtained

Where exemption is sought for a previous qualification, the maximum number of terms for which exemption can be allowed is five terms, part-time, at the recommendation of the Degree Committee. Exemptions are normally applied for when a candidate is near completion and knows how many terms of research are required to complete the work. Early submission from part-time students who have no grounds for an exemption but who have been able to devote more time to their research than expected under the scheme is not permitted unless the full fee for the five-year minimum research period has been paid.

Transfers between part-time status and full-time status

Transfer of registration status is permitted, providing the student is still within the minimum research requirement. Transfers are not normally permitted after the end of the period for which the student is paying fees nor as a means of avoiding the original submission deadline. Transfer from full-time to part-time status is considered by the Degree Committee on a case-by-case basis and may be subject to the same restrictions as applying for entry to the part-time PhD.

• Postgraduate Admissions: Part-time study

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Part Time PhD

• Updated on  
• Apr 25, 2023

A PhD is one of the highest degrees of qualification pursued by those aiming to master a certain discipline and aspire towards a career in research or academia! Studying for a PhD requires massive commitment as it is not a perfectly structured course but needs the scholar to spend extensive time studying, researching and then finally working on their thesis. As it demands total commitment and a greater amount of time and effort, students popularly opt for a full-time PhD. But for working professionals or those with time restraints, there are several options available for part-time PhD to choose from. This blog brings you a detailed guide on Part time PhD, the best programs and universities you can choose from as well as the admission process you must know about!

This Blog Includes:

Part time phd overview, part time phd eligibility, part time phd programs, fees for popular part time phd courses in india, popular universities for part-time phd abroad, top 10 part time phd colleges in india, part time vs regular phd.

Part-time PhD is the best option if you are a working professional aiming to steer towards a career in research or academia or to broaden your career horizons. A part-time PhD would enable you to acquire your doctorate degree while pursuing a full-time job. It is of a longer duration spanning around 6 to 8 years while a regular doctoral degree might be somewhere between 3 to 5 years. Studying a part-time PhD, you can work on your research thesis at your own pace but you would have to stay in constant touch with your professors and doctorate scholars as well. Part-time PhDs are becoming increasingly popular in the present day since it offers both the benefits of being financially stable and getting higher educational qualifications at the same time.

Important: UGC Guidelines for Part-Time PhD

The eligibility criteria for both part time and full-time PhD are quite similar. Here are some of the general requirements for pursuing a part-time doctoral degree:

• The candidate should have completed their master’s degree from a recognised university or institution with the minimum marks specified by the university you are applying at.
• Qualifying UGC NET is a compulsory criterion for PhD admission in some institutions in India, while others may hold entrance tests prior to the interview.
• For candidates who want to pursue their part-time PhD abroad, they need to clear the GRE as well as language proficiency exams like IELTS , TOEFL , etc. You will also be required to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) .
• Additionally, they need to send a research proposal on their preferred topic of research along with Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from at least two of their former faculty members to be considered for admission
• All candidates have to pass a round of interviews before being admitted to enrol for the degree

Although it is pursued by research scholars across all streams of study, there are some specific disciplines which are more popular among applicants. Below are some of the popular streams for Part time PhD programs you can consider:

Universities in India offer some of these popular courses, whose fees are mentioned below.

Now that you know about some of the most popular PhD programs, it is essential to explore the top universities for your chosen course to get the best research opportunities and exposure for your doctoral degree. Here are the popular universities in the world you must consider:

If you are looking for the best colleges for a part-time PhD in India, check out the list we have mentioned below for you:

• BITS Pilani
• Amrita University
• Delhi Technological University
• Himalayan University
• Dr. BR Ambedkar University
• Andhra University
• Bharathiar University

Career Options

A PhD opens up various career options irrespective of whether you have pursued it full-time or part-time. Doctorate scholars commonly explore career opportunities in research and academic and can find teaching prospects in colleges, universities and research centres. You can also discover job prospects in the corporate sector which offer higher salary packages and lucrative career profiles. Here are some of the career options if you have completed PhD:

• Assistant Professor
• Guest Lecturer
• Associate Professor
• Subject Matter Expert
• Academic Content Developer
• Research Assistant
• Curriculum Designing Expert
• Business Consultant

The following is the Average Annual Salary Package for several job profiles.

Yes, part time PhD is valid. It is accepted and recognised by the academic community and employers.

A part time PhD usually spans from 6 to 8 years.

The minimum duration of part-time PhD is 4 years.

Hope this blog was helpful in clearing all your doubts regarding part time PhD. Want to pursue a PhD but confused regarding which university to choose? Our Leverage Edu experts are here to guide you the best university in the field of your choice and we will also assist you throughout the admission process. Sign up for a free counselling session with us today!

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Excellent Info

I want to know the process for admission of phd courses from bangladesh.

Hello, First of all, we are stunned to know that you are aspiring to pursue PhD studies. If you wish to know more about studying abroad We would suggest you to download the Leverage App! Here is the link- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.leverageedu.leverageedu .

I am working professional,I want to persu PhD chemistry through distance mode plz suggest the best universities Which is UGC affaliated….

Hi please get in touch with our experts at 1800 57 2000 they will surely assist you

Thanks for information

Thanks, but what about fields like Psychology or Special Education? Please enlighten. Would be very useful.

Is Ph.D in yoga available (part time)

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The Department of Computer Science and Technology will offer a part-time route to the PhD Degree with effect from October 2022. 

Part-time structure

The Department of Computer Science and Technology could offer a part-time route to the PhD. At present, the University allows a part-time route which is 60% of a fulltime PhD route for which the minimum number of terms for a part-time student is 15. The maximum number of terms for a part-time student is 21 terms.

The requirements for the probationary CPGS in Computer Science will be spread across two years with the first-year report due near the end of the fifth term (i.e. end of March for a Michaelmas admittee), and the registration viva occurring in the sixth term (Easter term). The Department expects the completion of the required 12 units from the Researcher Skills Programme across two years. Part-time students are also encouraged to spend one term full-time in the first year of the programme and that students will be in residence in Cambridge during that time.

After successful registration for the PhD Degree, part-time Ph.D. students are expected to have between 2 and 4 meetings with their supervisor per term for at least a further ten terms. They are expected to spend an average of three weeks each term in the Department with a minimum of 45 nights p.a. in residence.

Requirements for a part-time PhD applicants in Computer Science and Technology

• The proposed topic needs to be suitable for study over a minimum of five years (15 terms) and a maximum of seven years (21 terms).
• If a supervisor identifies a potential student and a topic as being possibly suitable for part-time study, an interview report form must be sent to the PhD Applications Panel for consideration.
• Potential supervisors should invite the Chair of the PhD Applications Panel or a deputy to attend the interview.
• As well as consideration by the PhD Applications Panel, the interview report will be considered by, and a decision approved by, the Degree Committee. The approved form will also be loaded to the applicant portal for consideration by the Postgraduate Admissions Office.
• The proposed supervisor must be able to supervise a part-time Ph.D. for at least the minimum 15 terms. This means that supervisors on short-term contracts, or those due to retire within seven years of a part-time student being admitted, will not be eligible to supervise. Those who are due to take sabbatical leave should consider alternative supervision arrangements.
• Applicants should be aware that there is no obligation on supervisors to accept applicants who wish to be admitted as part-time students.
• The student must live close enough to Cambridge, or be able to spend enough time in Cambridge during the first two years, to be able to participate, as much as possible, in research group seminars, reading groups and other activities.
• The student and supervisor will sign an agreement about how often the student will be in the department. This might be, for example: 2 x 8-hour days per working week per term, or 3 x 1-week per term, plus 40% of time in the research term (1 July to 30 September).
• Most CST Research Skills courses are available remotely. For research themes’ group meetings and seminars, physical presence in the department is preferred.
• The student will be required to provide a letter from the employer (if the student is employed) confirming that they may have time off to attend the University as required for the duration of the course. Applicants are required to upload a part-time attendance Declaration to their application once approved for admission.

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UGC’s proposal to permit part-time PhD degree: What is it and how does it work?

A look at eligibility criteria, specification, and provisions of the proposed programme.

The University Grants Commission is finalising the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations draft that it proposed in March this year. With the amendments, working professionals will be able to pursue part-time PhDs programmes .

Part-time PhD programmes aren’t entirely new to India and are common in the IITs.

With the UGC’s proposal, more higher educational institutions across the country will offer the programme, which will help professionals who cannot afford to take long leaves to pursue their research.

We explain the eligibility criteria, the requirements for the supervisors and its other provisions:  

What will be the eligibility criteria for enrollment?

The eligibility conditions are the same for both full-time and part-time candidates. The work will also be assessed in the same way as done for the full-time PhD students. In addition to meeting the regular criteria, however, the part-time PhD candidates will also have to produce a No-Objection Certificate or NOC from their employer.

 “Such part-time PhD programmes are very useful to professionals who cannot take long leave for doing PhD,” UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar told The Indian Express .

What are the specifications of the NOC?

Apart from stating that the prospective part-time PhD candidate and employee is permitted to pursue the programme on a part-time basis, the NOC will have to spell out that they will be given sufficient time for research work. 

  The workplace will be required to establish facilities in the employee’s field of research as a doctoral scholar and the organisation will also have to make a submission saying that the employee will be relieved from duty to complete the requisite coursework if required.  

Offices rarely offer facilities for research and there is a requirement for “facilities in the employee’s field of research at the place of work”.  Isn’t the policy too restrictive?  

Prof Kumar said that the proposed part-time PhD policy – with NoCs that are required to be submitted by part-time PhD applicants – is in tune with the best institutions in India such as IITs.  

 “Most industries involved in manufacturing, scientific research  or the IT sector do have some facilities for research such as prototyping, testing and measurement. Such applicants can use the facilities in their place of work and also in the University where they register for part-time PhD.”

He added: “In IITs, students usually work during weekends to use the facilities at the institutions. A similar thing can be done in Universities. Students can also access library e-resources and online computing facilities using secure VPN connection from outside the campus, depending on the IT usage policy of the University.”

Who will guide the part-time PhD candidates?

The part-time PhD student will largely work independently but will work on his or her subject in consultation with the supervisor. At least six months of course work will have to be attended by them full-time. Once they complete the course work, they can carry out research under the guidance of a supervisor using the research facilities either in their own organisations or the research facilities in the universities.

Who will the supervisors be?

Permanent faculty members with a PhD working as Professor/Associate Professors, with at least five research publications in peer-reviewed or refereed journals may be recognized as research supervisors. 

Permanent faculty members working as Assistant professors with a PhD degree and at least three research publications in peer-reviewed or referred journals can also be supervisors under the proposed norms.

Which institutions can offer part-time PhD programmes?

 The PhD regulations shall apply to every University established or incorporated by or under a Central Act, a Provincial Act, or a State Act, as well as every college and higher educational institution declared by a notification in the Official Gazette by the Central Government under Section 3 of UGC Act, 1956.

How will the quality of the part-time programme be ensured by the UGC?

Citing the example of the IITs, where part-time PhDs are common, Kumar says that “they have not seen any degradation in the quality of doctoral work”.

Kumar added that every semester, the part-time PhD candidates would be “required to make presentations and submit progress reports” to the research advisory committee, which is “mandated to make sure that the PhD students carry out research of high standards”.

Can people who have completed an M Phil in the past and are currently employed as working professionals also apply for the programme?

Under the proposed revised regulations, one can join PhD programmes either after a four year UG programme or after a two year Master’s degree. The M Phil programme is being phased out from the  2022-23 academic session. However, if one has an M.Phil degree, the research advisory committee may recommend only 12 credits of course work and not more.

“Their research experience during M.Phil would be helpful just as in the case of the four-year UG honours with research who gain some research experience. In fact, many from scientific research organisations may have some kind of research experience already. That would certainly help them in their part-time PhD programme. Such applicants would also bring a diversity in research problems being studied in the university system,” Prof Kumar said.

Can a techie working with an IT firm apply for a part-time PhD?

Anyone can apply as long as they are regular full time employees, their workplace or organisation is recognised by the concerned University, the applicant submits the required NOC, and fulfils the eligibility criteria for PhD admissions.  

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Is a Part Time PhD Valid in India? 

• August 12, 2022
• PhD , YouTube Journal

If you’re considering a part time PhD in India , you may be wondering whether the program will be valid. In this post, we’ll take a look at what makes part-time higher education programs different from those offered in full-time settings, how much time it takes to complete your PhD in India on a part-time basis and how many hours per week you’ll need to devote towards your studies. 

The main difference between a full and part time PhD is the length of time it takes to complete the degree.  

You may wonder, “What’s the difference between a full and part time PhD ?” The main difference is that full-time aspirants complete their degrees in two to three years, while part-time aspirants take one or two years. Part-time aspirants can also choose to pursue their degrees more quickly than part time PhD & full time PhD ones by taking classes on weekends and evenings. 

The most obvious advantage of taking a part time PhD program is that it will cost less than pursuing one on your own schedule—you won’t have to pay for housing, food and transportation if you live at home like many part time PhD & full time aspirants do (though this option may not be available). On top of these savings comes flexibility: If something comes up unexpectedly during your coursework. Still, there are no other options available at the moment (like family emergencies), then taking on additional hours later might work out perfectly! 

Features of a Part Time PhD in India:  

A part time PhD program in India offers classes in the evenings or on weekends. You will also research and write your thesis at night or on weekends, but it might take longer than three years to finish your doctorate. 

If you want to complete your part time PhD in India without putting too much stress on yourself and can manage to work full-time while doing so, then this may be an option. However, if self-discipline is not one of your strengths (or if there’s something else that prevents using this route), then I would suggest going with a full-time university program instead because they have more resources available at their disposal, such as tutors who can help guide aspirants through difficult areas where they need help most often – like writing essays! 

In general, you should expect to spend less money on a part time PhD than you would on a full-time one. This is because tuition costs will be lower, and you won’t need to quit your job to afford it.  

In general, you should expect to spend less money on a part time PhD in India than you would on a full-time one. This is because tuition costs will be lower, and you won’t need to quit your job to afford it. Part-time programs also have fewer requirements for their aspirants; sometimes, there are no written exams or essays! 

Part time PhD aspirants can take classes when they are ready, either during the day or after hours (a few schools even offer evening classes) if this sounds like something that could work for your schedule, check out our list of best online universities to find one near where you live. 

What Preference does a Part Time PhD holder get instead of a Full Time PhD holder?  

As a part time PhD holder, you benefit from having your coursework done at a slower pace. This means you can spend more time in the classroom and less time away from it. You also have fewer exams than full-time aspirants because most of them are made up of written assignments and exams instead of practicals or essays that require much more effort. 

Part time PhD aspirants tend to be more practical in their approach to learning since they have less stress about getting through with all their tasks quickly so they can start working on other aspects of their lives like work or family responsibilities which might prove difficult if one doesn’t manage their time correctly while a PhD in India .  

Employers often value part-time study as evidence of a candidate’s commitment and ability to manage multiple responsibilities at the same time.  

Employers often value part-time study as evidence of a candidate’s commitment and ability to manage multiple responsibilities at the same time. It’s not unusual for employers to ask if you can juggle your full-time job with a part time PhD in India , so you must have this skill set to be considered for senior roles. 

Part time PhD s may have difficulty getting jobs in their field or applying for jobs that require specific skills or expertise. However, employers also appreciate candidates who can do more than one thing at once—primarily if those skills are related! 

For example, if you’re applying for a job that requires scientific knowledge and research skills, it’s possible to demonstrate those abilities by taking on extra work in your spare time. For example, volunteering at a local hospital or running experiments at home are great ways to showcase your passion for science and your ability to apply it. 

Is it possible to get a valid PhD through part-time study ?

The answer to your question is yes. It is possible to get a valid PhD degree through part-time study. 

Employers accept part time PhDs , recognized by the academic community and as time-consuming as full-time ones. 

The Part time PhD in India program is a legitimate option for people who want to earn a PhD degree but don’t have the time or resources to do so through full-time study. The advantage of this type of program is that it allows you to get your degree faster than if you were pursuing full-time studies, which means you can start earning money with the knowledge that you have already completed the requirements for your doctorate. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, part-time PhD programs in India are designed to accommodate working professionals. You can pursue your PhD while continuing your full-time employment in a different field. However, it is essential to ensure that you can manage your time effectively to balance your work and research commitments.

The time limit for completing a part-time PhD can vary depending on the university or institution offering the program. Generally, part-time PhD programs provide extended timelines compared to full-time programs. It is advisable to check with the specific university or institution regarding the duration and flexibility of their part-time PhD program.

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Prioritization Methods and Techniques – Part 2: MoSCoW Method

In my previous article, Prioritization Methods and Techniques - Part 1: Why Prioritize and the Kano Model , I talked about the need to prioritize and the Kano model as a prioritization method. In this second article in the series on prioritization methods and techniques, I will discuss the MoSCoW method.

The MoSCoW method is a highly widespread prioritization method which was popularized by Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM). The term MoSCoW has nothing to do with the capital of Russia. It is an acronym derived from the first letter of each of four prioritization categories – Must have, Should have, Could have and Won’t have.[1] The two “O” are added to make the word pronounceable.

Must have: This category contains requirements or features that are absolutely mandatory. Those are fundamental to the system (being a product or a service). If any of them are neglected, the system will certainly not work or will have no value for the customer.

Should have: These features are important, ideally, we should have them for the system to work correctly. If they are not there, a workaround may be possible, but it can be costly or cumbersome. Yet, they are not mandatory and therefore do not have the highest priority. Simply put, they don’t have much impact on delivery success right now, though they must be implemented soon enough (after the “must-haves”).

Could have: These are useful additions (often small-scale improvements) that add tangible value. These are “nice-to-have” requests. In general, they do not take considerable resources, but they are not essential to implement either. Their absence won’t affect almost anything, or at least wouldn’t impact the release negatively.

Won’t have (sometimes also known as “would like to have, but not this time”): These items are not worth the investment (of time, money, energy) and are unlikely to make the cut (at least not in the near future). These requirements are of the lowest importance and can be easily omitted (definitely considered out of scope for the first release) or rescheduled for future releases.

When prioritizing requirements in a project, DSDM recommends no more than 60% effort for “must-haves” requirements and a sensible pool of “could-haves”, usually around 20% effort (see Figure 1 below). Anything that is higher than 60% effort for the “must-haves” poses a risk to the success and predictability of the project, unless the environment and the used technology are well understood, there are minimal external risks/dependencies and the team is experienced and well established. Note that we are talking about a balance based on estimated effort of requirements (i.e. the expected time it takes to implement the prioritized features) and not total number of requirements. When calculating effort for a specific timeframe (e.g. first release), “won’t haves” are excluded, as they are considered out of scope for this timeframe.[2]

Figure 1: Balancing priorities using the MoSCoW prioritization technique (recommendation by DSDM[2])

Practical example

Let’s take a simple practical example. How can you categorize the features required to manufacture a child’s bicycle?

Must have: two wheels ; a frame

Should have: brakes for safe stopping; pedals; ability to adjust the saddle to accommodate growth; safety cover for the chain; stabilizers or the ability to fit them when needed (the last two features can also be classified as “could-haves” depending how essential they are for the child/parents)

Could have: bell or horn to alert others in proximity; attractive color of the bike; front suspension; Presta valves for inflating tires

Won’t have: valve caps to cover the tires valve; Bluetooth bike speaker

Even though it may seem strange not to have the pedals and the brakes in the “must have” category, in reality they are not mandatory for a child’s bike. By definition a bike is two-wheeled transportation device, so it must certainly have two wheels and a frame to link the wheels together, but everything else is subject to discussion and negotiation. For example, small kids can learn to ride a bike by simply using their feet, so no pedals and brakes are really needed. This simple example also shows that there is often a disconnect between expectations and requirements. People often have high level of expectations, but high expectations are different from must-have requirements which are mandatory and non-negotiable.

Let’s now look at the advantages and disadvantages of the MoSCoW method.

Pros of MoSCoW

• Simplicity. The MoSCoW method is one of the simplest prioritization techniques. It does not require searching for detailed data or making complicated calculations. So, it is easy to master and use because it is based on simple principles. Using this prioritization scheme in a product management context promotes mutual understanding between product people (product managers and product owners) and stakeholders. It is also a great method to resolve conflicts and to bring stakeholders to consensus. Prioritizing work using MoSCoW is fast and transparent.
• Agility for flexible scheduling and implementation. Since this prioritization method has no strict time limits for the implementation, except for the “must-have” category (items there should always go first and be implemented as soon as possible), it allows for flexible implementation timeframes per feature. Therefore, a team can easily adjust feature deliveries or releases on favorable terms based on agreement with customers/stakeholders.

Cons of MoSCoW

The MoSCoW technique is very simple, but such simplicity comes with some pitfalls.

• The technique lacks a clear consistency of implementation and lacks specific planning per feature. Even though priorities can be easily and quickly set, the MoSCoW method prioritizes the backlog items in four categories (in a similar fashion to the Kano model, covered in my previous article, which also prioritizes features in different categories), so it does not introduce any sequencing of features/backlog items and lacks specific planning. This makes it quite challenging for product people to decide on the exact priority of a feature compared to another one within the same category. At the end of the day, this drawback might put the entire release at risk.
• MoSCoW classification rules can be subjective and this creates imbalance between the absolutely required (must have or mandatory) and slightly desirable. Often, the blurred lines between categories make it hard to decide in which category a feature should go into, specifically when we talk about “must-have” and “should-have” lists. But it is sometimes also the case between “should-haves” and could-haves”. This happens due to the subjectivity of requirements. Therefore, features or stories allocated to the different categories should be approached with great thought and care and the chosen categorization should be agreed with (or well explained to) all stakeholders.

When to use the MoSCoW method

The MoSCoW method is probably the simplest and most widespread prioritization scheme for new product development, and more specifically for small products. But as we saw above, this technique also has its disadvantages and is not always effective. For instance, if you have a complicated backlog with many time-sensitive releases, consider choosing other prioritization method or complementing MoSCoW with another more accurate or comprehensive technique.

On the other hand, it is quite reasonable to use MoSCoW when prioritizing work for small (and not too complex) products, which does not have many technical limitations. The MoSCoW requirements help product people and teams take a strategic, orderly approach to prioritization. This method is great for avoiding wasted time, arguments and misdirection.

In my next article I will talk about the Eisenhower matrix. Meanwhile, if you want to know more about prioritizing using the MoSCoW method, please feel free to contact me.

About this article or just curious about working at BlinkLane? Contact Martin or take a look at our open vacancy .

References:

[1] Griffiths, M. (2012). PMI-ACP Exam Prep (2nd ed.). RMC Publications Inc.

[2] Agile Business Consoritum (n.d.). Chapter 10: MoSCoW Prioritisation. Retrieved from https://www.agilebusiness.org/page/ProjectFramework_10_MoSCoWPrioritisation

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