Overview
No doctorate is hard if you truly want it! When asking how hard is it to get a doctorate, the answer depends on your determination, focus, and purpose. While the path may be challenging, it’s far from impossible—especially if you’re passionate about your subject.
For those curious about the extremes, you might also explore the top 10 hardest doctorates or find out what the hardest PhD to get is. Ultimately, earning a doctorate is less about raw intellect and more about persistence, clarity of vision, and long-term commitment.
While the journey can be demanding, it is primarily a test of persistence, discipline, and passion, not just intellect. For those committed to academic inquiry and contribution, a PhD becomes less of an obstacle and more of a personal mission.
Doctoral programs vary widely in structure and difficulty, depending on the field, institution, country, and individual circumstances.
This article explores how hard it is to get a doctorate—academically, emotionally, financially, and logistically—so you can make an informed decision.
What Makes a Doctorate Difficult?
A doctorate is not just another degree—it’s a research apprenticeship that culminates in the creation of new knowledge and understanding. The difficulty lies in its demands:
- Independent Research: Unlike earlier degrees, you’re expected to self-direct your research.
- Uncertainty and Ambiguity: There’s no syllabus for your dissertation—only questions waiting for answers.
- Mental Fatigue: PhDs often lead to burnout or writer’s block, especially when progress stalls.
High Expectations: You’re judged by global academic standards and peer-reviewed outputs.
Quick Overview
| Aspect | Difficulty Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Rigor | High | Requires deep specialization and original research. |
| Time Commitment | Very High | Typically 3–7 years full-time. |
| Emotional Stress | Moderate to High | Depends on the advisor, funding, and personal resilience. |
| Financial Investment | Varies Widely | Some are fully funded, others are costly (especially in the US). |
| Career Uncertainty | Moderate | Jobs in academia are highly competitive, but alternatives are available. |
But It’s Not Just About Being ‘Smart’
Many assume PhDs are only for the intellectually elite, but that’s misleading. In reality, successful doctoral candidates tend to exhibit:
- Resilience
- Time management
- Intrinsic motivation
- Willingness to learn from failure
Key Insight: Students who finish their doctorates aren’t always the smartest—they’re often the most consistent.
Differences by Country
The perceived difficulty also varies based on location:
| Country | Duration | Typical Structure | Funding Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 5-7 years | Coursework + comprehensive exams + research | Competitive, often funded. |
| UK | 3-4 years | Primarily research-focused. | Fully/partially funded. |
| Germany | 3-5 years | Research with some teaching obligations. | Usually funded by faculty. |
| India | 3-6 years | Coursework + UGC/NTA exams + thesis | Mixed, often self-funded. |
| Australia | 3-4 years | Research + thesis | Funding depends on the university. |
Source: British Council. (n.d.). A guide to PhD study in different countries.
Factors That Make It Harder (or Easier)
| Makes It Easier | Makes It Harder |
|---|---|
| Strong advisor-mentee relationship. | Poor supervision or lack of guidance. |
| Full funding and minimal debt. | Financial stress or lack of scholarships. |
| Institutional support and peer community. | Isolation and toxic academic environments. |
| Clear research goals. | Topic changes or lack of data. |
FAQs- Is it Hard to Get A Doctorate?
How difficult is a PhD compared to a master’s degree?
A PhD is significantly more challenging due to its unstructured nature, original research component, and extended duration.
Is getting a doctorate worth it?
It depends. If your goal is to pursue a career in academia, research, or policy, a doctorate can be essential. However, in some industries, experience or professional certifications may hold more value.
What is the hardest part of a doctorate?
Most students cite writing the dissertation, handling rejection (e.g., journal rejections and grant failures), and maintaining motivation as the most challenging aspects.
Are STEM doctorates harder than those in the humanities?
Not necessarily. STEM doctorates often involve lab work and data analysis, while humanities demand extensive reading and original interpretation. Both are difficult in different ways.
Conclusion: Is It Really That Hard?
Pursuing a doctorate is unquestionably tough but not impossible. With the right mindset, support system, and topic alignment, many students complete their PhDs. The key isn’t raw intelligence but rather:
- Consistency over intensity
- Commitment over convenience
- Curiosity over certainty
If you genuinely want a doctorate, then it won’t be hard for you. It will be a journey—a long one—but one worth taking!
