Product Description

This is a handbook for Ph.D. students, providing a practical, realistic understanding of the processes of doing research for a doctorate.

New to this edition: a section on increasingly popular professional doctorates such as Ed.D., D.B.A., and D.Eng; material for supervisors of overseas, part-time, and mature students; and a diagnostic questionnaire for students to monitor progress.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #139726 in Books
• Published on: 2005-06-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 240 pages

Review
"A welcome revision to what has always been a popular book amongst intending PhD students; certainly an essential for all careers libraries!...Order your copy of the book today, and watch your students queue to consult it!" - Phoenix"Phillips and Pugh's book has, since its original publication in 1987, become the undisputed bible for doctoral students...To say that this book is a goldmine of hints, sound advice and carefully researched observations and lessons is an understatement." - Nursing Times

About the Author

Estelle M. Phillips is an independent educational consultant based in the United Kingdom.

Derek S. Pugh is emeritus professor of international management at the Open University Business School, United Kingdom.

Customer Reviews

Good, but could be better
This book is perfect if you are going to apply for a Phd in Britain. If you are going to do so, buy it!. However, in my opinion is not worth to buy it if you are already a phd student or you are not in the British phd system. In this case I suggest you to borrow the book or to find it in your library for a fast read. I think that the book is a little expensive for the information you will find in it. It is full of obvious advices that you probably already know, but it is not bad to see them written.

As I see it, the most important things in the book are: the definition of phd, the chapter "How to do research", the psychological aspects related with the phd process, and the chapter "The form of a Phd thesis".

The worst things are: the chapter "How to survive in a predominantly British, white, male, full academic enviroment"; I think the information reported in this chapter is common in all social and professional environments and not specific to the phd, people that belong to minorities or are under harassment situations can easily find information in more specific literature. This chapter could be substituted by a more usefull one that could be titled: "Before the Phd"; there could be inserted important information that is not present now. i.e. in science phd's is very important to have a strong mathematical background "before" you start or to have adecuate English writing/reading skill "in any case"(so you should work hard before the phd if your mother language is not English).

As conclusion, I think that the book is helpful in general and it is worth to have a look on it; a valuable point is that it is the result of a profound analysis of the British Phd process, but in another hand this can be counteractive if applied to non-british phd.

PhD and the research process
Essential for all global undergraduates (who are technically junior researchers), postgraduates and academics at all levels. The book increases understanding of different elements of the research process from what you need to know about applying to do research and choosing a supervisor to information on the final oral (viva) examination. The book is written in an accessible way and provides guidance for those who want to continue researching. Are you considering a new research project and need help or encouragement? This excellent book will give you that and so much more besides.

Phillips & Pugh: How to Get a PhD
I am one of the co-authors of this book, now in third edition. The book has been translated into several languages and we have had many kind letters and comments on the contents. We aim to help students prepare for their research and eventual examination in a professional and realistic way. We also hope to help supervisors and advisors to improve their skills in smoothing the way for their research students. In the USA the book is relevant only to the final two years of the degree, i.e. AFTER the qualifying exams have been completed. For the dissertation part of the American degree this book is very helpful indeed. Enjoy your research and let How to Get a PhD be your guide through the maze.