A PhD can be a life-changing, transformative and fulfulling experience but there’s a lot to consider. Before you take the decision to pursue the pinnacle of academic acheivement, we explore the reasons why a PhD might not be for you. 

This blog piece is a collaboration of inputs from our ambassadors: Marta Zingale (PhD Archaeology), Nuria Barrios Jurado (PhD Linguistics) and Timothy Cheuk Yin Chan (PhD History). 

 

You should not do a PhD if…

 

1. You think it’s a short-term project

PhDs are long-term commitments—typically a minimum of 3 years full-time, though many take 4–5 years. Make sure this fits your long-term career and life goals. — Nuria

Completing a humanities PhD can take several years, often without immediate financial return.— Timothy

2. Someone told you to do a PhD   

You might have a friend, academic, or colleague who thinks you’d make a great researcher. While a supportive environment helps, you are the one committing years of your life to a single project. The workload, pressure, and sacrifices will ultimately be yours to carry.
— Marta

3. You’re expecting a guaranteed role in academia

If your goal is to become an academic, think twice. According to a 2020 report by the Higher Education Policy Institute, 67% of UK PhD students aim for academic careers, but only 30% remain in academia three years post-graduation. Academic careers often require frequent relocations and years of job insecurity. — Nuria

A PhD is no guarantee of a stable academic job. Many graduates end up in temporary roles or switch fields. You should pursue a PhD out of genuine interest in research—not prestige.
— Marta

In the humanities, the academic job market is highly competitive, especially during global economic downturns. There are other pathways—master’s programs, industry roles, or practical experience—that may better suit your goals.
— Timothy

4. You think funding will be easy

If you’re funded, your stipend may be close to minimum wage, and outside work is often restricted. If you’re not funded, think very carefully before starting.— Nuria

Humanities PhDs often have limited funding, and the return on investment is lower compared to other disciplines. — Timothy

Stipends may barely cover living costs. Scholarships help, but they’re highly competitive. Be realistic about your financial situation.
— Marta

5. Networking doesn’t come naturally 

PhDs involve presenting your research and building relationships with peers and scholars. If you’re shy or uncomfortable in social settings, be aware that networking is an important part of the experience.— Nuria

6. You’re not prepared for sacrifices

Be ready to eat, sleep, and breathe your research. For international students, this can mean leaving behind family, friends, and familiar comforts.— Nuria

You may have to relocate for the right program or supervisor. This can strain relationships and emotional well-being.— Timothy

PhDs are full-time (often overtime) jobs. Burnout is real, especially when juggling deadlines, teaching, and administrative work.— Marta
(Check out our student tips on avoiding PhD burnout)

7. You’re stuck for what to do after your Master’s

If you’re unsure what comes next after university, take some time. Try working or exploring other options. Only pursue a PhD if you’re truly passionate about research.— Marta

8. You don’t want to do a lot of reading and writing

Humanities PhDs involve intensive reading and critical analysis. This is followed by writing a book-length dissertation.— Timothy

I didn’t fully realize I’d have to write 80,000 words of polished academic work. If writing (and redrafting!) isn’t your thing, think carefully.
— Nuria

9. You’re bad at time management

Doctoral research demands self-discipline. Without strong time-management skills, it’s easy to fall behind and burn out.— Timothy

There’s also a surprising amount of admin—forms for ethics, fieldwork, conference funding, etc.—all needing supervisor sign-off. Plan ahead.— Nuria

While you set your own schedule, that freedom can be a trap. You must learn to prioritize and stick to self-imposed deadlines.— Marta

10. You’re not self-motivated and resilient

The academic journey includes rejection, failed experiments, and critical feedback. It takes resilience to keep going.— Timothy

Research can feel lonely, even with a good supervisor. Support from peers, hobbies, and social groups can help you stay grounded.
— Marta

 

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