PhDs

读博如何获得奖学金

guest.writer@qs.com — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 15:56:26 +0000

How to Get PhD Funding

guest.writer@qs.com Thu, 12/06/2018 - 15:56

Thu, 12/06/2018 - 09:00

读博如何获得奖学金

By Elke Schwarz

Professor Daniel Drezner of Tufts University once quipped: “Should you get a PhD? Only if you are crazy or crazy about your subject.” If you fit one of those two categories, you’ll no doubt be keen to find out how to finance your mad endeavor. Here’s a quick guide to getting PhD funding…

How much does a PhD cost?

First things first, how much does a PhD cost? Here, the answer varies considerably by country. In the UK, being a self-funded PhD student can be an expensive undertaking, with an annual tuition bill of approximately £3,000 to £6,000 (about US$3,800-7,670) for domestic students and up to £18,000 ($23,000) for international students for the first three years.

In the US, the price tag for a PhD is even higher, ranging from US$28,000 to US$40,000 per year. In Germany, on the other hand, PhD students face no tuition fees at all, aside from a nominal semester contribution of €250 (~US$320).

Before some of these high figures deter you, be reassured that there are many PhD funding opportunities available; few PhD students are self-funded.

PhD funding from national research councils

In the UK, PhD funding is provided via seven research councils, each covering a specific academic sector. Across Europe, such funding is offered by the European Research Council. Both the US and Canada have the equivalent in their National Research Councils, which give financial support to students either individually, via scholarships, or for funded research projects, via a research group or department.

PhD funding from universities

Most universities provide substantial scholarships, studentships and other PhD funding opportunities. These schemes typically cover the cost for a good proportion of the annual tuition fees, if not more. Universities often also provide some funding for doctoral students to cover the costs of field trips and conference attendance.

A further means to fund a PhD is by obtaining a PhD position, sometimes also called PhD studentships or assistantships. These are essentially jobs tied to the PhD program, involving work in teaching, research or both. This is an ideal way to support your research, while being involved in a larger, often team-based, funded research project and gaining work experience.

Living costs and opportunity costs

Other costs to be considered when calculating PhD funding are living costs and opportunity costs. Living expenses will of course vary significantly by country and city. Studying in Paris (France) or Oslo (Norway) will likely incur a substantially higher annual cost than completing a PhD in Bangkok (Thailand), for example.

In addition, opportunity costs can be high. Unlike a master’s degree, which usually takes just one or two years full-time, a PhD demands a markedly higher time investment – most programs require an absolute minimum of three years, and some require five to six, depending on the country.

During this time, full-time employment is possible only if it is in relation to the PhD program itself. Some may opt to continue working and attempt to complete a PhD part-time – but this has proven to be exceptionally challenging; some studies suggest that drop-out rates for part-time PhDs are as high as 66 percent.

Career prospects with a PhD

But while this might all sound daunting, there are considerable benefits and advantages to getting a PhD. In other words: the prospects for careers with a PhD are good. While entry-level salaries may not be considerably higher compared to those for master’s graduates, those with a PhD do have better long-term prospects for faster career- and pay-scale advancements. And a growing number of PhD students consider a post-doc life outside of academia.

There has been a clear trend in non-academic employers (such as consultancies, think tanks, media and others) increasingly valuing not only the specialist knowledge of PhD graduates but also their maturity and soft skills. Attributes valued by PhD employers across a wide range of industries include diligence, research abilities, focus, discipline, presentation skills and the demonstrated ability to work under pressure and to a deadline.

For all those aspiring doctoral students who aim to have a quick return on their investment, a word of caution: the benefits of a PhD are not to be had in the fast lane. The value of a PhD qualification is to be found in the long-term benefits it brings, financially, professionally and intellectually. It is a labor of love, and, as we know there is always some madness in love, but for those with realistic expectations and the discipline and tenacity to complete this highest of academic degrees, it is a tremendously rewarding experience, in more ways than one.

This article was originally published in November 2013. It was last updated in December 2018.

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6 Ways You Can Fund Your PhD

stephanie@qs.com — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 10:25:32 +0000

6 Ways You Can Fund Your PhD

stephanie@qs.com Wed, 11/28/2018 - 10:25

Wed, 11/28/2018 - 10:00

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Sponsored by LSE

Studying a PhD is an exciting and extremely rewarding venture. Whether it’s for personal development, professional development, or both, a PhD can have a life-changing impact, but it also comes with its own challenges. However, thinking of ways to fund it, shouldn’t be one of them.

Some PhD students consider taking on part-time work, but after dedicating 40 hours a week to studies, you’ll want to relax, socialize and have some time away from the library and books to clear your mind, instead. Even though there’s no right or wrong way to go about funding a PhD, it does pay to be realistic and well-informed, so make sure you do your research first to find the best way for you.

Crowdfunding, employer funding and postgraduate loans are just some of the popular ways to help fund PhD studies, in addition to studentships and research council grants, which, in the world of academia, are sometimes considered ‘the golden ticket’. Read on to discover more ways you can fund a PhD.

Research council grant

Research council grants should be your first port of call when seeking any form of PhD funding if you’re from the UK or EU. They’re non-repayable, and normally cover your three or four years of studying. Depending on the study program, and academic performance, the ESRC DTP Studentships offered at LSE can cover either three or four years of your five or six-year PhD program.

The PhD Academy based in LSE’s library building, is a dedicated innovative hub space for PhD students to socialize and study. It’s also home to the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) where PhD students at LSE are offered additional academic professional development and training.

Postgraduate loan

Recently introduced for the 2018-19 academic year for UK nationals, and EU national students who reside in the UK, the PhD postgraduate loan is worth up to £25,000 (~US$32,467). Much like a master’s loan, you can borrow any amount up to £25,000, regardless of your financial background.

Employer sponsorship

If you’re able to show your employer that studying a PhD will not just benefit you, but them and the company as well, they may offer you some form of employer sponsorship. To help make your case as strong as possible, you should outline what you plan to study, how long for, the cost, and above all else, exactly why you want to study a PhD and the impact it will have on your employer. This demonstrates your commitment and understanding of what you’re asking your employer to do for you, as well as what you’ll be doing for them.

Studentship

A studentship is the name most commonly used for PhD scholarships. They’re a popular form of funding for PhD students across the world, supporting students from any country, with many universities offering a number of studentships to help ease the financial pressure.

Traditionally, studentships are more common in science, technology, engineering and medicine subjects (STEM). However, PhD students at London School of Economics (LSE), have the chance to be awarded one of around 100 studentships, from its LSE PhD Studentships and LSE ESRC DTP Studentships.

For some students, receiving a PhD Studentship is the difference between being able to pursue a PhD, or not. Katherine Furman, a current MPhil/PhD Philosophy student at LSE was awarded the LSE PhD Studentship. She told us: "I received an LSE PhD Studentship, which covers both my tuition and living expenses. It was a huge honor to receive funding from such a prestigious institution and without this support it would have been impossible for me to pursue my PhD."

Tamlyn Monson, a Sociology PhD graduate at LSE, told us of how a studentship helped her: “The LSE PhD Scholarship gave me the freedom to fully concentrate on the demanding final stage of my graduate study.”

The PhD Studentships offered at LSE, cover full fees, with an annual stipend of £18,000.

Crowdfunding

Asking your family and friends, and even strangers to help support your PhD studies may feel a little extreme, but you shouldn’t rule it out. You’ll need to be able to market yourself well, and explain why people should part with their money to help fund something that benefits you.

Charities

If you know where to look, certain charities may help provide funding for your PhD. Although these organizations are unlikely to be able to cover everything, you can combine multiple sources of funds from charities, and incorporate it into what’s known as ‘portfolio funding’. Students at LSE can access the ‘Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding Online’ database for free, which helps source alternative funding opportunities (especially from charities).

Discover more studentships on offer at LSE

As well as PhD Studentships and LSE ESRC DTP Studentships, there’s also department-specific funding available at LSE. Eligibility and application processes can vary widely, so it’s best to check with each individual program to be sure.

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Want to study a PhD, but not sure how to fund it? Read on to find out more about how a scholarship, research council grant or crowdfunding can help lighten the financial load.

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How to Study a PhD in Germany

sabrina@qs.com — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 09:52:56 +0000

How to Study a PhD in Germany

sabrina@qs.com Fri, 09/14/2018 - 10:52

Fri, 09/14/2018 - 12:00

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Germany is one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad, with around 3,600 international graduates completing their doctorate there every year. Read on to discover how to apply for a PhD in Germany…

Why study a PhD in Germany?

It’s not difficult to see why Germany is popular as a study destination. It enjoys a global reputation as a world leader for technology innovation and research, has a robust economy and an attractive quality of life, and a particularly renowned tradition in fields such as engineering and manufacturing.

Many of its universities enjoy a strong international reputation, with 46 ranked within the top 1000 in the world in the QS World University Rankings® 2020. Among these, the prestigious research university Technische Universität München is ranked first in the country and 55thin the world, shortly followed by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München in 63rd place.

As well as offering a high standard of living, Germany welcomes international students with low costs of study and good funding opportunities. PhDs in Germany do not usually charge tuition fees (see below), and more than a quarter of doctoral candidates in Germany receive public funding.

What types of PhD are offered in Germany?

Individual doctorate

This is the traditional option and remains the most popular. In this type of PhD you will produce your thesis or dissertation under the supervision of a professor, but will mostly be working independently. The length of these PhDs varies, generally lasting three to five years. This option offers a great deal of flexibility, but also demands a high amount of personal initiative and responsibility. You are not limited to gaining your PhD by conducting research work at a university; you could also complete a project at a non-university research organization or at a German company in the industrial sector.

Structured PhD programs

You can also choose what is known as a structured PhD program. This involves a group of doctoral students being guided by a group of supervisors. There are around 600 programs of this nature available in Germany, often with an international make-up, with English as the language of instruction. These programs differ from individual doctorate programs as students’ research proposals have to fit in with existing PhD programs, whereas individual doctorates can be more freely structured to suit the individual research project. You will also need to attend lectures and seminars, and will normally have a mentor.

Which German universities offer PhDs?

Many universities in Germany offer PhDs. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a database that you can use to search for the right PhD program for you.

How much does it cost to study a PhD in Germany?

Good news! Although tuition fees were reintroduced for non-EU students in the state of Baden-Württemberg in 2017, doctoral students are excluded from this, meaning that PhDs remain free for all students at all public universities in Germany, regardless of nationality, for up to the standard length of a PhD (three years). Beyond this, you may be required to pay fees.

However, as with all levels of study in Germany, PhD students are also required to make a semester contribution of between €150 to €200 (~US$175-230) for administration and other costs.

This means that your main expenses will be the general costs of living in Germany. If you apply for a student visa you will be asked to prove that you have access to a minimum of €10,236 (~US$11,266) per year.

This money will be used to cover living expenses, which include rent, food, clothing, transportation, working materials, recreation and other costs. Even more than this may be needed to live in a particularly expensive city such as Munich.

Is there any funding available?

Most doctoral students work on a paid research project or receive a scholarship. If you want to apply for a scholarship to help with your expenses, you may be able to find these through the official website of the university you wish to study at. You can also consult our list of scholarships to study in Germany, including PhD funding opportunities. Other good sources for finding scholarships include www.funding-guide.de and www.stipendienlotse.de (website in German).

You may also consider taking on a part-time job to supplement your funding, either within the university or beyond – but be aware of any possible restrictions. If you are a full-time EU or EEA student (excluding students from Bulgaria and Romania), there are no restrictions on where or when you can work. If you are a full-time student from outside of the EU you will be limited to working up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year before you must apply for a work permit. Upon gaining paid work in Germany you should contact the German employment office to learn about the legal conditions.

What are the entry requirements?

Entry requirements will vary between universities and PhD programs, but generally you will need to have a good higher education degree which is equivalent to a German master’s degree. Alternatively, extremely well-qualified international applicants with a bachelor’s degree may be admitted as doctoral students via a fast-track program, which will involve taking an entrance exam and perhaps attending an interview.

If you are studying your PhD in English and this is not your first language, you will need to prove your English language proficiency with an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL. If you are studying or submitting your PhD in German, you may need to prove your proficiency in the language with a test such as the DSH or TestDaF.

How do I apply for a PhD in Germany?

There is no central admissions process or selection office for doctoral students in Germany, and the application process differs depending on whether you have chosen a traditional (individual) or structured PhD – for the latter, you will simply need to apply directly to your chosen university.

If applying for an individual PhD, you will first need to find a suitable professor who is willing to be your supervisor. You may be able to find a supervisor through contacts from your previous university, or by searching for institutes and research centers or teams which relate to your area of interest. The following online search platforms might help you find a suitable supervisor:

Once you have found a supervisor, the responsible department or doctoral committee must confirm your eligibility as a doctoral candidate. This usually involves completing an application which includes a statement from your doctoral supervisor, certified copies of certificates, proof of recognition of your qualifications from the Dean’s office, academic references and the university degree that enables you to participate in doctoral study. Your application may also include an English or German language test result, if applicable. The Student Office of your chosen university will review these documents and grant permission for you to commence doctoral studies.

The next step is to enroll at the university. To be eligible for enrolment, the university must first accept your application for admission to doctoral studies. However, not all departments require doctoral applicants to formally enroll. You can find any requirements relating to enrolment on the university’s official website.

You must also make sure your postgraduate degree is recognized, obtain a residence permit and/or student visa, and ensure you have adequate finances for your stay.

Do I need a student visa?

This will depend on your country of origin. Many students will find that they do not need a student visa, but do need a residence permit. You can read more about obtaining a German student visa here, or find an overview of the countries for which a student visa is or isn’t required on the Foreign Federal Office’s website.

Do I need to speak German?

No – however, we’d recommend learning at least basic German to help you get by in your host country, especially if you’d like to work during or after your studies. If you are studying an individual doctorate writing the doctoral thesis can often be written in English, while structured PhD programs frequently allow students to complete their doctorate in English.

For further information on studying a PhD in Germany, read the DAAD’s ‘FAQs – Doing a doctorate in Germany’ PDF.

This article was originally published in October 2015. It was updated in May 2020.

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How to Study a PhD in Canada

sabrina@qs.com — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 08:42:11 +0000

How to Study a PhD in Canada

sabrina@qs.com Fri, 06/29/2018 - 09:42

Fri, 06/29/2018 - 11:15

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An increasingly attractive and multicultural study destination, Canada is a great option to consider for your PhD studies, offering a wealth of research opportunities to help you expand your expertise. More than a third of the country’s overall research is conducted at Canadian universities, and this work contributes billions to the country’s economy.

What are the admission requirements?

The requirements to study in Canada at doctorate level vary between universities and courses, but you generally need the following:

A master’s degree in a related field, with strong grades and proven research ability and potential.
Proof of language ability, depending on whether you study in English or French, if either language is not your first language and you haven’t previously studied in either language. (Some programs in French-speaking Quebec are conducted in both languages).
A strong score in a graduate admissions test such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

In exceptional cases, you may be able to study a PhD with “accelerated admission” – that is, without a master’s degree. In this process, you’ll need to have outstanding grades in the last two years of your bachelor’s degree (a first-class average) and other demonstrations of your high academic potential, such as research publications.

How long are PhDs in Canada?

Most PhDs in Canada take about four to six years to complete.

How do I apply for a PhD in Canada?

Although the admissions process can vary between Canadian universities, you’ll generally need to follow the following steps to apply for a PhD:

1. Decide which PhD course you’d like to apply for, identifying your supervisor and chosen research topic. This may be an advertised, structured PhD in which the scope of the research is already outlined by the university (particularly in the sciences), or alternatively (particularly in arts and humanities) you could suggest and outline your own research project with an open PhD. Once you’ve found a supervisor, some universities may ask for a letter of support from your chosen supervisor to be included in your application documents.

2. If applying for an open PhD, you’ll need to submit a research proposal following the guidelines set by your university and generally outlining what you want to research, and why this is a worthwhile project.

3. Apply online, paying the appropriate application fee and attaching the necessary documents to your application. This could be all or some of the following:

Statement of purpose – this should outline your background and academic/professional experience, including any awards, publications or relevant experience you can offer. You should also discuss your career goals and anything else stipulated by the university, keeping to the word limit.
Two or three letters of reference (including one from your intended supervisor). Your referees should be academic, where possible.
Academic transcripts and degree certificates – Canadian universities may require that your university mails an official transcript, which should be in English or accompanied by a perfectly translated document.
Writing sample (most likely for arts and humanities PhDs)
Your Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Language test results, if needed
Portfolio of creative work (if applying for an arts/humanities PhD)

Some Canadian universities may also ask you to attend an admission interview.

4. Once accepted, the next step is to apply for your study permit, which acts as your student visa for your stay. You should also take out health insurance, and check your university’s website for orientation advice.

How much does it cost to study a PhD in Canada?

Tuition fees for a PhD in Canada vary between universities and courses, and will generally be around twice that of fees for Canadian students. An exception to this is the University of Toronto, where most international PhD students will pay the same tuition fees as domestic students, starting from fall 2018.

To give you an example of the cost of a PhD in Canada, the University of British Columbia charges CA$7,641 (~US$5,760) per year for Masters by Research or PhDs, while PhDs are CA$$10,240 (~US$7,700) in years one and two at the University of Manitoba.

What PhD scholarships and other funding opportunities are available?

Thankfully, many PhD scholarships are available to help make studying in Canada more affordable to international students, with many awards based on academic merit. The Canadian government runs a useful website with a search tool to find scholarships based on your country of origin. Other good places to look are the official websites of Canadian universities, which may provide their own scholarships search tool to help you find one relevant to your situation and country of origin.

Some examples of PhD scholarships to study in Canada include:

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, which award CA$50,000 (~US$37,700) per year to highly-qualified international and home PhD students in the fields of social sciences and/or humanities, natural sciences and/or engineering and health.
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation doctoral scholarships, which at the time of writing is currently in the process of being reworked.
The University of British Columbia Four Year Doctoral Fellowship provides a stipend of at least CA$18,200 (~US$13,700) per year plus full tuition for outstanding international/home doctoral students for all four years of their studies.

Teaching/research assistantships

Many students also decide to fund their studies by taking part in a research or teaching assistantship – in these, you can work as a teaching or research assistant in exchange for a stipend and/or have your tuition fully or partially covered.

As a research assistant, you’ll work to help a faculty member (which may be your supervisor) by assisting with data collection, analysis, report writing, lab/office organization and other tasks. As a teaching assistant, you’ll support your department with its undergraduate programs, teaching one or more sections of the course, conducting laboratory sections, holding office hours and grading undergraduate papers. To become a teaching assistant, you’ll need to demonstrate your mastery of the course and ability to effectively facilitate students’ learning.

To apply for a research or teaching assistantship, you’ll need to check the information posted by your university and likely fill in an online application form.

Can I work in Canada part-time during my studies?

Yes, all full-time students with a valid study permit can work part-time on or off campus for up to 20 hours per week during university semesters and full time during semester breaks. However, some PhD courses may stipulate that you shouldn’t work for more than 10 hours per week during term time – particularly if you’ve been granted funding to study in Canada. It’s also important to consider that your PhD will take up a considerable amount of time and challenging work, so you might prefer to focus entirely on your studies. Also, it’s not advised to rely on part-time work to fund your living expenses. You’ll need a Social Insurance Number to work in Canada.

Can I stay and work in Canada after my PhD?

Yes – if you’d like to stay after graduation to find work in Canada, you can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) which allows you to stay and gain valuable work experience for a maximum of three years. And if you’re interested in becoming a permanent resident, this post-graduation work experience helps you to qualify to apply for permanent residency in Canada via Express Entry. Find out more here.

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This article was originally published in April 2017. It was updated in June 2018.

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How to Fund a PhD in the UK if You Can't Afford to Do it Yourself

mathilde@qs.com — Mon, 02 Oct 2017 16:26:24 +0000

How to Fund a PhD in the UK if You Can't Afford to Do it Yourself

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First of all, congratulations! If you’re reading this, we’re assuming you’ve received an offer for a place on a PhD program in the UK. It’s not everyday you get to be rewarded for the ingenuity and feasibility of your research project, and finding a PhD supervisor to agree to mentor your project is definitely a step ahead in the right direction. If the elation you first felt when hearing the news has already given way to worry over money, hopefully we can help to ward off some of those concerns for you. If you can’t afford to pay for your fees out of your own pocket and haven’t received a university scholarship, here are some other ways to pay the fees.

Regularly search university job websites for available positions

Often universities will advertise research posts on specialist jobs websites like UniversityJobs.com or Jobs.ac.uk, so it’s a good idea to check these daily to find out about any part-time or full-time openings on campus that may contribute toward your fees, rent and living costs. Whether it’s a research post, or even just an admin job, being able to say you study and work “at the university”, especially if it’s in your research department, could open doors for you, in addition to being a convenient arrangement.

Explore your funding options both at home and abroad

You may be eligible for funding opportunities both at home and in the country of study, so if you’re coming to the UK from abroad then explore all of your options. If you’re from the US, for example, you could apply for a Fulbright grant. European Union residents could always try to apply for an ERASMUS overseas placement or get funding for a joint degree through Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA). Explore other funding opportunities here.

Shoot a promotional video and set up a campaign on Hubbub

If you’re thinking of going down the crowdfunding route, Hubbub.org is a good place to start. Set up an account either through your university if they subscribe to the site or individually. It’s much more geared toward education than other sites like Kickstarter so your campaign won’t get lost among a sea of artists and entrepreneurs. To promote your campaign, film a promotional video with your smartphone and offer symbolic gifts to donors, keeping them updated on your project. Share a link to your campaign on a dedicated Facebook and Twitter page, with your own hashtag, asking your friends and relatives to share on their accounts.

You could also try to contact your local newspaper, like Oxford University student Genevieve Richardson, who raised over £2,000 for her MPhil in Development Studies after appearing on the Yorkshire Evening Post and BBC Radio Leeds’ Breakfast Show. Depending on the newspaper’s news agenda at the time, they might want to slot you in for an interview and get your crowdfunding campaign lots of extra clicks.

Apply for charity awards

Did you know charities funded PhDs? Well, they do, and you might be able to get a charity or trust to contribute toward your living costs, fees, research expenses, conferences and/or travel. In the UK, there are thousands of organisations offering grants to projects they find interesting or even to students from certain demographics, such as the Vegetarian Charity, who give grants to vegan and vegetarian students, or the Leverhulme Trades Charities Trust, who help students whose parents are grocers, chemists, and commercial travellers.

Consider taking out a postgraduate loan

If you’re from the EU or the UK, you’re eligible to take out a PhD loan of up to £25,000 from the UK government. Repayments are 6% of your annual income when it reaches £21,000. You would get £8,300 a year on average if your PhD takes three years, less if it takes longer. Obviously, this won’t be enough to cover all your fees and living costs, so you’ll need to consider the full cost of study and where the rest of your money will be coming from.

Apply for a QS scholarship

Top Universities offers a US$10,000 PhD scholarship to applicants who attended a QS World Grad School Tour event and completed a QS Graduate Applicant Survey by April 30 2018. To apply, you would also need to write a short essay about how the PhD will help your career ambitions. More information can be found on the QS events pages.

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如何申请美国博士：一个成功申请者的建议

laura@qs.com — Wed, 09 Nov 2016 10:19:44 +0000

How to Apply for a PhD in the US: Advice from a Successful Applicant

laura@qs.com Wed, 11/09/2016 - 10:19

Wed, 11/09/2016 - 05:15

如何申请美国博士：一个成功申请者的建议

Greek student Platon Selemenakis is pursuing a PhD in the US at Colorado State University, specializing in cancer biology. Having attended the QS World Grad School Tour while researching his study options, Platon spoke to the TopUniversities team to share his advice on choosing a university, submitting a successful PhD application, and adapting to life in the US.

What motivated you to apply for a PhD in cancer biology?

I was always interested in research, especially in cancer biology. This particular field is very challenging, mainly because the behavior of cancer cells is not black and white. The more you dig into the different pathways that drive tumorigenesis, the more vague it gets. I love challenges and that is why I took the big step to start a PhD in cancer biology.

What and where did you study previously?

In 2014, I graduated from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens with a BSc in Biology. After my graduation I worked for two years in Dr Gorgoulis’ lab at the Medical School of Athens, Greece.

Why were you attracted to studying a PhD in the US?

I have the privilege of being a dual citizen; I am Greek-American. I was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Greece. I have family in the States so the decision was easy. In addition, universities in the US offered me a chance to apply directly for a PhD, which is what I wanted.

How did you choose a university? What made you decide on Colorado State?

I searched for universities based on two things: the PhD program of my interest and faculty members involved in research that I am interested in. Last year’s QS World Grad School Tour event in Greece also helped me find other universities to apply to. In fact, St. John’s University in New York was one of the universities that I had actually had the chance to meet with at the event.

Finally, when I had to narrow down which offer to accept, I went with Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins, Colorado. When I went for the interviews at CSU, I was amazed by the program, the faculty members who I had the chance to speak with, and the quality of the research. St. John’s did not have the type of research I was looking for, so my decision was easy and I chose CSU. Not to mention that the town here in Fort Collins is beautiful and the people are amazing.

What is most important when choosing a PhD program?

When you are at the point of finding a university for your PhD, you have to consider:

1) Do they have the PhD of your interest?

2) What are the admission requirements and do you meet them?

3) Faculty members and their quality of research, papers published, grants

4) Tuition, stipend and living costs – can you make it through with the amount of money offered?

What advice would you give to others applying for a PhD in the US?

Start searching for the PhD programs that you will apply to ahead of time, at least one year before. Start preparing for the standardized tests at least seven to eight months before the application deadlines. Spend some time researching the work of faculty members that you would like to work with. Finally, apply to more than one university, as the positions for PhD are highly competitive

What do you think makes a strong PhD application?

The key to success is a strong GPA (grade point average), a diverse CV and a flawless personal statement. Also, if you have publications, it is always a helpful addition.

In the US, apart from a good GPA and high marks on the standardized tests, they also look at the extracurricular activities you’re involved in. They are not searching for a student that is all about school and work, but a person who is active, enrolled in volunteer groups or in sports clubs.

When it comes to the personal interviews, show your passion and be well-informed about the research work of your interviewers. You need to show them that you care about the position and that they should choose you over several other candidates.

How has your experience of studying in the US been so far?

I can say that so far my experience has been the very best. I am very happy with my decision. My schedule is quite hectic during the week, but my work is productive and I enjoy it. So far, no surprises and I hope it will stay like this.

The most challenging thing was to adapt to the lifestyle here and the cultural differences. It was difficult in the beginning. However, I manage day by day to overcome these challenges by meeting other international students, attending events and being involved in sports clubs. Always be open to new things!

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研究生获得学习资助指南

hasna@qs.com — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 10:30:43 +0000

Guide to Funding Your Graduate Studies

hasna@qs.com Thu, 01/15/2015 - 10:30

Thu, 01/15/2015 - 10:00

研究生获得学习资助指南

This article is adapted from the QS Top Grad School Guide 2014/15. You can download the latest Top Grad School Guide, which includes advice on scholarship applications, for free here.

One of the prevailing concerns for prospective students worldwide – at graduate level and otherwise – is funding. With many countries still seeing rising tuition fees, alongside cuts to government-funded financial aid, obtaining sufficient funding and managing debt are often the biggest obstacles facing students who wish to pursue further education.

To start with, the cost of graduate study can be overwhelming simply to work out. Depending on the location and your circumstances, you may need to account for some or all of the following: tuition fees, semester fees, student services fees, course material expenses, food, travel, accommodation, visa and health insurance costs, childcare and personal expenses. For some, there’s also the “opportunity cost” to calculate, meaning the cost of time spent taking a career break.

The good news? While costs are in many cases higher than ever, leading universities and national governments are focusing on ways to increase funding opportunities and their accessibility.

Sources of graduate funding

It is advisable to start looking for graduate funding opportunities while or even before applying to universities, as the two processes often require very similar applications. In general, applications for funding need to be submitted by spring if you’re starting study in the fall of the same year.

Fortunately, there are many types of funding available for graduate students: merit-based, need-based, need-blind, university-specific, course-specific, subject-specific, career-specific, demographic-specific, country-specific, ability-specific and non-specific… The following is a breakdown of the most common types of graduate funding available around the world.

Home- and host-country governments

The first places to check for funding opportunities are the Ministry/Department of Education in your home and host countries. International students may not be eligible for all government funding schemes in the host country, so it’s important to thoroughly check opportunities in your home country first. Globally, typical government-funded aid includes sponsorships, loans, grants, scholarships (also known as studentships in the UK when referring to PhD students) and bursaries, each with distinct rules regarding eligibility, deadlines, application procedures and amount of funding awarded.

Universities and higher education institutions (HEIs)

Many universities and other HEIs offer some sort of financial aid for international students, be it fellowships, scholarships, grants, awards or bursaries, distributed on the basis of need, academic merit or both. Funding information is usually available online – check the scholarship or international section of the university website. Apply to as many schemes as possible, but remember to check the criteria carefully to ensure you fit the requirements. While highlighting your strengths and any exceptional achievements are a given, those applying for graduate study should also draw attention to any research projects, academic events, papers or conferences to which they have contributed, as well as discussing future research plans.

Scholarships

Scholarships are prestigious, highly coveted and usually the hardest form of financial aid to secure. They don’t need to be repaid and cover the full or partial costs of tuition, sometimes along with a portion of living costs. Scholarships are usually based solely on academic merit, although there are also many specialized scholarships which are targeted at students with certain backgrounds, interests, skills or ambitions. For example, sporting scholarships for the athletically gifted are particularly common in the US, and you don’t have to be on a sports-related course to apply. Discover scholarships by country and subject here.

Teaching and research assistantships

Assistantships (also known as studentships in the US) provide funding for postgraduate students in exchange for time spent working in a teaching or research role. They may be funded by the university department or your supervisor’s research budget, or by an external funding body with vested interests in a particular field of development. Rarely offered for professional degrees such as the JD, MBA or MD, often a requirement for PhD programs, and particularly common in STEM subjects, assistantships are cost-effective for the university and provide valuable teaching and/or research experience for the student.

Students with an assistantship are obliged to carry out specified teaching and/or research activities, stipulated in a contract. In return, you’ll typically receive a modest salary and/or a waiver of your tuition fees. Some universities may also provide funding for field trips and conference participation. When working in this capacity, make sure to remain within the constraints of your student visa, which may specify some employment restrictions.

Charities, trusts, learned societies and special interest groups

Charities, trusts, learned societies and special interest groups often dedicate a portion of their budget to fund graduate studies. While some organizations target specific and niche demographics, many focus simply on students from lower income backgrounds, those experiencing particular financial difficulty, and/or those with demonstrable academic excellence. Usually awards are made for a year at a time, with renewal possible, and students can secure backing from multiple organizations.

When applying for funding, focus on anything that makes you particularly distinctive. Points to highlight include: the relevance and potential future applications of your research; any ways in which your interests and/or background align with those of the funding organization; any disadvantages or challenges you’ve faced, along with your drive to succeed and potential to do so.

Employer contributions

If you’re starting your postgraduate studies after a period of work, you may be able to persuade your employer to sponsor your education. Most companies are supportive of staff training and development, and may even have a budget set aside for the personal and professional development (PPD) of their employees. Professionals requiring further education to become fully qualified include accountants, architects, engineers, social workers, lawyers and teachers.

Employers will be more receptive to your request if you show your aim is to improve your ability in the workplace, advance your career prospects, and/or aid your long-term development within the company, rather than simply indulging your own academic or personal interests. If you do use this route, you may need to sign an agreement which will tie you to the company for a specified period after graduation (usually one to two years).

Student and professional development loans

Dedicated student loans typically have lower repayment rates than regular loans. While common in North America for graduate studies, they are harder to obtain in countries like the UK, which concentrate on providing student loans mainly at undergraduate level. However, a possible alternative is a professional development loan. In the UK, banks offer Professional and Career Development Loans (PCDLs) for students who intend to work in the UK, EU, Norway, Liechtenstein or Iceland upon graduation. The loan funds up to two years of study, covers course fees and some living costs, and has more flexible repayment terms than a regular bank loan.

National research councils

National research councils (RCs) are often the main public-sector distributors of investment in research, including that conducted by postgraduate students. In the UK, there are seven RCs offering competitively sought-after graduate funding covering a wide range of disciplines. Elsewhere, similar investors include the European Research Council for EU countries, the National Research Councils in the US and Canada, the various institutes within the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) in France, the Australian Research Council (ARC), and the German Research Foundation (DFG).

Eligibility criteria usually stipulate residency within the country where the council is based, a good bachelor’s degree and/or relevant work experience. Funding may provide partial or full fee coverage, along with a cost of living grant (known as a stipend), which is usually tax-free. Competition is intense, but highly specialized subjects typically have fewer applicants. You will usually need to apply via the university, rather than directly to the council.

Alternative graduate funding options

While graduate funding options are plentiful, they are greatly outweighed by the number of students vying for those opportunities. In addition to the fierce competition involved, these traditional funding routes are also not guaranteed to cover the full costs of graduate study – so creative candidates may consider some alternative avenues:

Peer-to-peer lending

A form of crowd-sourcing whereby private loans are given to individuals without the mediation of an official financial institution, peer-to-peer (P2P) or social lending provides funding for a variety of endeavors. Specialized online platforms are often used, with some (such as GraduRates.com and StudentFunder.com) focusing on the student market. While the lending is unsecured and you may need a solid credit history, P2P lending is more flexible in terms of repayment and interest rates for the borrower, while lenders have the opportunity to invest in a project or career they believe in. It can also provide a more formalized structure when lending among families and friends – turning a favor into a business transaction.

Portfolio funding

Portfolio funding involves securing small amounts of money from multiple sources. This can mean applying for all the types of funding mentioned in this article, or sending dedicated letters to a range of sources simultaneously. For this, students prepare a fundraising pack, with a letter asking for help in funding their degree. The letter explains who they are, what they want to study and why, what they will give back (either to the individual they address, or society as a whole) and how to make a donation.

Student jobs

If you intend to use a student job to supplement your finances, remember that each country has its own rules about whether, where and how international students can work. Typical restrictions include limited working hours during term-time, and rules about whether you can work off-campus or need to stick to jobs within the university. For example, international students in Canada must obtain the Off-Campus Work Permit (OCWP). Most campuses offer many opportunities for part-time work, including working in a shop or café, in the student union, as an organizer or helper at university events, in an administrative role, or as a student tutor or advisor. You could also consider freelance work as a tutor, capitalizing on skills in fields such as languages, sports, arts or music.

Part-time study

You might also consider enrolling for part-time study, which will mean your tuition fees are spread out over a longer period, while you have more time to work alongside your course commitments. If this is your plan, make sure you have a realistic balance between work and studies. If you do find yourself struggling to cope, your university’s student support team may be able to direct you towards funding opportunities that have opened up since the commencement of the academic year, or at the very least, help you find a better balance or schedule.

Graduate funding around the world

Having explored the different avenues available to international graduate students, here are some specific graduate funding resources for six of the most popular destinations:

Funding for graduate study in Australia

Australian government’s Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships
Australia Awards, via the AusAID program for students from developing countries
Merit-based international scholarships from individual universities, such as the Adelaide Graduate Research Scholarships (University of Adelaide) and International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (University of Western Australia)
More scholarships to study in Australia…

Funding for graduate study in Canada

Government website provides a listing of international scholarships, including the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) offers scholarships for international students, while the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC) offers scholarships for Canadian citizens
Competitive graduate scholarships from Canada’s Research Councils (such as NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, CIFAR)
More scholarships to study in Canada…

Funding for graduate study in France

Bursaries via the Centre National des Œuvres Universitaires et Scolaires (CNOUS) and the Centres Régionaux des Œuvres Universitaires (CROUS)
Regional scholarships from the website of the Conseil Régional in which your university is based
Eiffel Scholarships for international master’s and PhD students from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MESR)
Graduate scholarships from the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF)
PhD students can apply for Industrial Conventions Research Training (CIFRE) funding
The French Ministry of Higher Education and Research provides ‘doctoral contracts’ for research students
French government bursaries via French embassies in some countries.
More scholarships to study in Europe…

Funding for graduate study in Germany

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organization for international students and offers an online scholarships database
Funding organizations such as the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation for PhD students and the Heinrich Böll Foundation
Katholischer Akademischer Ausländer-Dienst (KAAD) scholarships offered for students from developing countries
Some federal grants and loans are available (some only in cases of hardship)
More scholarships to study in Germany…

Funding for graduate study in the UK

UK government offers tuition fee loans for graduate-level students on accelerated medical/dental programs and special funding for trainee teachers (PCGE or ITT)
Opportunities for funding from the seven government-funded Research Councils: AHRC, BBSRC, EPSRC, ESRC, MRC, NERC, STFC
Scientific studentships from organizations and charities such as Cancer Research UK, Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) and the Wellcome Trust
Funding via the British Council, including Erasmus grants and the UK 9/11 Scholarship Fund for surviving victims of the 9/11 attacks
The Fulbright Commission offers Postgraduate Student Awards for postgraduate studies at any accredited UK university (for US students only)
The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme helps provide funding for professional qualifications
Other international schemes include the Chevening Scholarships, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme and Marshall Scholarship (for US students only)]
More scholarships to study in the UK…

Funding for graduate study in the US

The Institute of International Education (IIE) provides a database of scholarships
The Fulbright Commission offers Postgraduate Student Awards for postgraduate studies at any accredited US university (for UK students only) and Scholar Awards for UK professionals doing academic work in the US
Research grants from government agencies such as the National Science Foundation
Annual funding directory published by Palgrave Macmillan, called The Grants Register
Individual scholarships offered by universities or states, such as the Kennedy Scholarships for Harvard and MIT and the Frank Knox Fellowships for students from the UK, Australia, Canada or New Zealand to study at Harvard
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) provides international fellowships for women to study in the US
PEO International offers scholarships for women to study in the US or Canada
The Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund for Greek students to study in the US
More scholarships to study in the US…

International graduate funding

Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) funding includes the Global Access Initiative (GAIN) and PING Scholarships
The Leverhulme Trust offers international postgraduate studentships
Scholarships from the Organization of American States (OAS), including the OAS Special Caribbean Scholarships Program (SPECAF)
The EU’s Erasmus+ program includes a range of international funding opportunities
Online database of EU scholarships via the PLOTEUS project
The European Commission (EC) offers Intra-European Fellowships, International Incoming Fellowships and Initial Training Networks (ITN) for researchers in Europe
Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) for Commonwealth countries
More scholarships for international study…

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如何在英国找到一个博士项目

laura@qs.com — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 17:32:00 +0000

How to Find a PhD in the UK

laura@qs.com Thu, 07/24/2014 - 18:32

Fri, 07/25/2014 - 02:00

如何在英国找到一个博士项目

After receiving the QS Academic Scholarship (worth US$10,000) in 2012, Indian student Rajesh Kumar headed to the UK’s University of Glasgow to complete an MRes in Biomedical Science. Having thoroughly enjoyed both the course and the wider research environment offered by the UK, he was keen to stay on and find a PhD program.

He’s spent the past six months immersed in researching PhD projects, writing proposals, applying for PhD funding and seeking advice, and has been successful in receiving offers of places at a number of the UK’s leading universities.

Now all set to start a fully funded PhD program at the University of Sheffield, as part of a research collaboration with the University of Oxford, Rajesh shares his advice on how to find a PhD, how to secure PhD funding, and how to choose when faced with a confusing selection of options.

1. Identify your research interests

The first important step, Rajesh says, is to gain a clear understanding of your own research interests – which in his case are in the field of stem cell biology and regenerative science. Studying an MRes certainly helped him get a better idea of the “driving questions” he wanted to help answer, as well as giving him a “flavor” of what to expect from a PhD. The MRes, or Masters by Research, is a kind of “squeezed PhD”, as Rajesh puts it, often specifically designed to prepare students for PhD-level research.

2. Look for relevant PhD projects

Once you’ve identified your research interests, you can start searching for relevant PhD projects, Rajesh says. He suggests using websites which advertise PhD studentships such as Nature.com and FindaPhD.com, as well as consulting the department websites of universities you’re especially interested in. Here, he says his MRes supervisor and lab-mates were helpful sources of information and inspiration, suggesting different approaches to finding out about relevant PhD projects and supervisors.

3. Contact supervisors and write proposals

Having identified a list of relevant PhD projects with openings, Rajesh then began contacting supervisors and departments to find out if he might be suitable for each position. He also sent out research proposals of his own, which he says received a very positive response – so far resulting in offers of PhD positions at the Universities of Oxford, Cardiff, Glasgow and Sheffield, as well as invitations to take on research assistantships at Leicester and Cambridge.

4. Apply for PhD funding

Even after being offered places at such an impressive array of leading UK universities, however, Rajesh faced a new challenge. Most of the PhD projects he’d been invited to join were not fully funded, so he needed to do his own research to find some external PhD funding. “I started researching the different funding organizations in the UK and Europe, writing to them to explain my offers from different universities,” he says. Unfortunately, most of the deadlines for PhD funding had already passed; those seeking PhDs are advised to start the process as early as possible to allow adequate time for this stage.

In addition to the major PhD funding bodies in the UK and at European level, Rajesh also notes that individual universities also often have dedicated funding available for specific PhD projects. “I’m still learning – there are a lot of different ways to find PhD funding!” The ideal situation, he says, is to find a PhD which is fully funded from the start – and this is what he’s succeeded in doing, at the University of Sheffield.

5. Choose the best PhD for you

For Rajesh, the choice was ultimately made easier by the fact that only one of his current options offered full PhD funding – and he was reluctant to wait an extra year in order to pursue additional PhD funding avenues. However, there was a period when he felt a little overwhelmed by all the different options being presented to him, and here he says it helped to consult information such as that provided by the QS World University Rankings by Subject, to get a better idea of the research strengths of each institution. He promises that this is not just because he received a QS Scholarship!

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欧洲大学的研究经费

guest.writer@qs.com — Thu, 26 Sep 2013 14:38:00 +0000

Research Funding at European Universities

guest.writer@qs.com Thu, 09/26/2013 - 15:38

Tue, 10/01/2013 - 02:00

欧洲大学的研究经费

Michalis Katsimitsis, PhD, career counselor at EduJob.gr

There is more than one way of finding research funding at European universities. Depending on your status (e.g. non-EU researcher, young researcher etc.), you can get research funding from various sources.

In any case, you don’t necessarily have to be a citizen or a resident of a particularly country in order to be funded by national scholarships and grants.

EU research funding

The European Union offers various opportunities for researchers to access financial support. Some of the main sources of EU research funding are:

1. IEF (Intra-European Fellowships)

The Intra-European Fellowships scheme provides funding for 12-24 months, for researchers who want to advance their career in Europe outside their home country. Funding covers advanced training needs, such as new and/or complementary skills, and transnational mobility. Applications are open to researchers based in EU Member States or Associated Countries.

2. IIF (International Incoming Fellowships)

International Incoming Fellowships provide support for researchers that move from non-EU countries to EU Member States or Associated Countries, again for 12-24 months. IIF applications should be made in liaison with the organization or institution that would be willing to host you in Europe (including universities, research centers, companies).

3. IRSES (International Research Staff Exchange Scheme)

The International Research Staff Exchange Scheme (IRSES) finances active research organizations (e.g. universities, research centers etc.), for a period of 24-48 months. The allowance covers mobility costs (including travel costs) for staff members from an EU Member State or Associated Country staying in an eligible non-EU country. It may also cover the costs of stays by staff from certain non-EU countries in Europe.

4. ITN (Initial Training Networks)

The Initial Training Networks (ITN) scheme is for early-stage researchers who want to improve their research skills, join established research teams and enhance their career prospects. It is designed for the recruitment of researchers in the first five years of their career for initial training, as well as for networking activities, outreach activities, workshops or conferences. A successful proposal may receive research funding for up to four years.

5. IAPP (Industry-Academia Partnerships and Pathways)

The Industry-Academic Partnerships and Pathways (IAPP) initiative finances public and private research in order to promote collaboration. Proposals for IAPP funding must include one or more universities/research centers and one or more enterprises. A successful proposal will receive 100% funding for labor costs, for four years. It covers: exchange of know-how and experience, recruitment of experienced researchers, and networking, workshops and conferences.

In general, the above EU research funding schemes welcome proposals from all areas of scientific and technological research, with the exception of research areas covered by the EURATOM Treaty.

Other European organizations that support research include: European Science Foundation, European Research Council, The Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency, Euroscience, HERA - Humanities in the European Research Area. More information and support about pursuing a research career in Europe is also provided at EURAXESS - Researchers in Motion.

Research funding from individual countries in Europe

Apart from the EU fellowships detailed above, each EU member state offers its own financial support to researchers. This support comes in many forms and is offered by various organizations, public and private. For example, some European universities offer teaching or other job positions to researchers, or they fund research programs without any further obligations.

It is important to note that those funding sources differ from country to country and from one funding provider to another. There are funds that cover travelling costs, or the organization of international meetings, while other research funding programs are targeted to support female researchers, or the combination of research and industry.

For information on various positions and opportunities available, you can either contact the universities that interest you directly, or run a search on the relevant EU site.

Golden rules when searching for research funding:

Exhaust every possibility. Never dismiss a possible source outright. Approach them all, no matter how tough the competition might be.
Be on time. Always start your search as early as possible. The more you procrastinate, the lower the possibilities for success become. Someone else will get there before you.
Be thorough when reading the eligibility terms. This will save you time and energy, since you will avoid applying for something you are not eligible for.
Network. By being in contact with colleagues from various countries and universities, you receive valuable information not only on your field of interest, but also on possible funding opportunities.

Michalis Katsimitsis holds a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Athens, where he has taught contemporary European philosophy. He has published numerous articles on education, philosophy and culture, and is an advisor and analyst on educational matters at EduJob.

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PhDs in Business & Management: Five Hot Research Topics

laura@qs.com — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:32:32 +0000

PhDs in Business & Management: Five Hot Research Topics

laura@qs.com Thu, 06/06/2013 - 10:32

Thu, 06/06/2013 - 02:00

PhDs in Business & Management: Five Hot Research Topics main image

Looking for a DBA or PhD in business and management? Find out which fields of business research present most opportunities, according to course leaders.

In the words of Dr Valérie Sabatier, deputy director of the Doctoral School at Grenoble Ecole de Management in France, “What we knew several years ago doesn’t work anymore. We need new research and new models.”

Globalization, technological change, environmental concerns, social and political upheaval, the financial crisis of the end of last decade, and rising business school enrolments are all driving demand for business PhDs and DBAs across a spectrum of diverse, though interconnected topics. Here, course leaders identify five of the most in-demand areas of business research.

1. Managing technology & innovation

“Management of innovation and technology is of particular importance right now,” says Sabatier. “Questions about R&D, strategy and business models, and innovation are very important both from a theoretical and managerial point of view.”

What’s driving demand? Rapid and continuing change. “The world has changed so much and is evolving so quickly with new questions emerging all the time,” Sabatier says. Gillian Symon, director of PhD programs at the School of Management, Royal Holloway, University of London, adds: “The continuing rapid developments in social technologies that have revolutionized marketing, communications and organizational relationships make these topics vital.”

2. Resources management & sustainable development

Energy management, water management, and sustainable development are all identified among “the great ‘macro’ themes of the century” by Alessandro Binachi, DBA program thesis and research coordinator at European University’s Business School in Spain.

What’s driving demand? Quite simply, as Binachi says, “without solving [these issues] in the short term, life on Earth may become seriously jeopardized, or at least unpredictably complex.”

3. Social entrepreneurship

Recent years have seen a growth in the number of MBAs in social entrepreneurship – and there are also opportunities in this field for PhD and DBA candidates. “Social entrepreneurship, business models for developing countries, but also frugal innovations are hot topics,” Sabatier says.

What’s driving demand? Social, economic and attitudinal change. Research in this field focuses on “how to create value for society, as well as value for profits and returns,” says Sabatier.

4. Corporate responsibility, ethics & accountability

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has similarly been a ‘hot’ topic for some time now, but the course leaders say it remains a key priority for research. Binachi identifies ethical issues among the most pressing topics for business research today, while Symon says ‘Sustainability, responsibility and ethics’ is one of the six areas of research excellence being prioritized at Royal Holloway.

What’s driving demand? The impact of the financial crisis of 2008 onwards is still very much being felt, Symon says, meaning corporate responsibility, accountability and “assessing fair value accounting” remain very much at the top of the research agenda.

5. Accounting & finance

Finally, accounting and finance remain high-demand areas. As well as highlighting the link between accounting and accountability, Symon also predicts growing demand for models of accounting for intangible assets.

What’s driving demand? In addition to the broader pressures of social and economic change, increased enrolments in higher level business school programs. “With the boom in professional education, there are not enough professors at PhD level to teach in business schools,” Sabatier says. As a result, academics in the fields of accounting and finance - particularly corporate finance and markets - are in high demand, for both research and teaching positions.

Of course these are by no means the only areas of opportunity. Symon also mentions war and global security and global labor standards as fields of business research likely to see growth, while Sabatier mentions healthcare in addition to the fields already covered.

Meanwhile Binachi emphasizes that beyond these overriding themes, each region and industry presents its own specific priorities and challenges. Finally, he points out that many of the concerns that kept business leaders awake a century or more ago remain just as pertinent and pressing today – including productivity, labor problems, cost containment and new products development.

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