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 Reasons to get a PhD?

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TSBeastboy
post May 18 2010, 09:51 AM, updated 14y ago

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If anyone here has a PhD, can you share with us what made you decide to get a PhD?

Was it because

- better salary
- prestige
- job promotion
- genuine academic interest
- you didn't know what to do with life & you had a sponsor
- your father told you to

I did ask a couple of PhD's in real life. One said prestige, the other said better salary... which she now regrets becoz a lecturer's salary really sucks.

Does anyone really go for a PhD because they were truly interested in the knowledge?

v1n0d
post May 18 2010, 10:02 AM

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Doing my PhD now.
You don't do one unless your interested in the academic line. The pay, benefits etc. don't really make it any better than other management-level jobs out there.
TSBeastboy
post May 18 2010, 10:27 AM

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You mean teaching? Ya you probably can't get to the Dean level unless you have a Dr. title in your name.

I think in our society there's still the lack of interest in finding knowledge for knowledge's sake. Perhaps we haven't come out of the bottom of Maslow's triangle. Food and material gain is still our top worry rather than the search for truth?

den
post May 18 2010, 10:50 AM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ May 18 2010, 10:02 AM)
Doing my PhD now.
You don't do one unless your interested in the academic line. The pay, benefits etc. don't really make it any better than other management-level jobs out there.
*
Anyone doing it just for the sake of gaining knowledge, and getting the Dr title? lol.

by the way, like the quote you have in your sig.

"Doctor in training. The kind that doesn't help people."

lol.
communist892003
post May 18 2010, 11:39 AM

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QUOTE(den @ May 18 2010, 11:50 AM)
Anyone doing it just for the sake of gaining knowledge, and getting the Dr title? lol.

by the way, like the quote you have in your sig.

"Doctor in training. The kind that doesn't help people."

lol.
*
The price one pays for pursuing any profession or calling is an intimate knowledge of its ugly side. The poverty of this society is when some idiots assuming education is a pursuit of financial security. U remember that until you die. Perhaps this could well explained why many idiots can't get to heaven despite everyday they pray. Amen


I quotes wrong person, shit notworthy.gif

This post has been edited by communist892003: May 18 2010, 11:40 AM
den
post May 18 2010, 01:47 PM

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QUOTE(communist892003 @ May 18 2010, 11:39 AM)
The price one pays for pursuing any profession or calling is an intimate knowledge of its ugly side. The poverty of this society is when some idiots assuming education is a pursuit of financial security. U remember that until you die. Perhaps this could well explained why many idiots can't get to heaven despite everyday they pray. Amen
I quotes wrong person, shit notworthy.gif
*
Quote from James Baldwin? biggrin.gif


heavenly91
post May 18 2010, 01:50 PM

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You take Phd is to help the society back with your knowledge.
Stop thinking abt making money.
That's why Msia got no talented ppl doh.gif
TSBeastboy
post May 18 2010, 02:28 PM

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Other than make money thru teaching, I can only think of one practical reasons to get PhD... as a ticket out to find jobs in other countries.

Augus7
post May 18 2010, 02:28 PM

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u get phd to lose your hair to look like vin petrol
communist892003
post May 18 2010, 02:41 PM

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QUOTE(den @ May 18 2010, 02:47 PM)
Quote from James Baldwin?  biggrin.gif
*
Hell yes rclxms.gif

This post has been edited by communist892003: May 18 2010, 02:41 PM
TSBeastboy
post May 18 2010, 02:47 PM

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QUOTE(Augus7 @ May 18 2010, 02:28 PM)
u get phd to lose your hair to look like vin petrol
*
I wouldn't mind if it gets me all the girls... tongue.gif

communist892003
post May 18 2010, 02:49 PM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 18 2010, 03:28 PM)
Other than make money thru teaching, I can only think of one practical reasons to get PhD... as a ticket out to find jobs in other countries.
*
A real practical reason for us to get PhD is that we're trying to settle our anxiety or curiosity with knowledge, that's u can't live a day without it. As for you, I prefer u f*** up with so rich people to get rich, rather than investing on education which is so unrealistic. DATO is better than PhD you know. Another practical reason to get PhD is when you do not posses any talent, a calling of Doctor could be the alternative way to replace your talent which apparently not exist in you. So use your hard work to create an artificial talent.


Added on May 18, 2010, 2:50 pm
QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 18 2010, 03:47 PM)
I wouldn't mind if it gets me all the girls...  tongue.gif
*
Girl like smart people, not nerdy. I never heard the thesis of ADA PHD, ADA Ah Moi. But i do heard there is a word saying, "ADA duit, ADA ah moi"

This post has been edited by communist892003: May 18 2010, 02:56 PM
den
post May 19 2010, 03:58 AM

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Added on May 19, 2010, 4:01 am
QUOTE(communist892003 @ May 18 2010, 02:49 PM)
A real practical reason for us to get PhD is that we're trying to settle our anxiety or curiosity with knowledge, that's u can't live a day without it. As for you, I prefer u f*** up with so rich people to get rich, rather than investing on education which is so unrealistic. DATO is better than PhD you know. Another practical reason to get PhD is when you do not posses any talent, a calling of Doctor could be the alternative way to replace your talent which apparently not exist in you. So use your hard work to create an artificial talent.


Added on May 18, 2010, 2:50 pm
Girl like smart people, not nerdy. I never heard the thesis of ADA PHD, ADA Ah Moi. But i do heard there is a word saying, "ADA duit, ADA ah moi"
*
Artificial talent sad.gif sad.gif



This post has been edited by den: May 19 2010, 04:23 AM
TSBeastboy
post May 19 2010, 09:27 AM

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QUOTE(communist892003 @ May 18 2010, 02:49 PM)
Girl like smart people, not nerdy. I never heard the thesis of ADA PHD, ADA Ah Moi. But i do heard there is a word saying, "ADA duit, ADA ah moi"
*
Must be tough being a girl. She'll be thinking who to marry ar... the smart one who will give me smart babies or the rich one who will give me money for shopping. tongue.gif


robertngo
post May 19 2010, 09:43 AM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 19 2010, 09:27 AM)
Must be tough being a girl. She'll be thinking who to marry ar... the smart one who will give me smart babies or the rich one who will give me money for shopping.  tongue.gif
*
she will just marry the rich guy and have a affair with the smart one the get the smart babies rolleyes.gif
jaclynjac
post May 19 2010, 10:14 AM

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actually PhD is master ? e.g MBA is a phd ?
OMG!
post May 19 2010, 10:15 AM

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Phd is not easy to get. and not easy to undergo the minimum 3 years of granting it. So in this case, i would like to know, if we speand a rather long amount of time to study for Phd, and yet we can't come out with a proper study and finding, are we going to get nothing at the end of the course?


Added on May 19, 2010, 10:16 am
QUOTE(jaclynjac @ May 19 2010, 10:14 AM)
actually PhD is master ? e.g MBA is a phd ?
*
Phd is not a master, master is done before u did your Phd, with exception of a few cases where u could directly jump to Phd from your degree if u get 1st class.

hence, MBA is considered as master, not Phd.

This post has been edited by OMG!: May 19 2010, 10:16 AM
TSBeastboy
post May 19 2010, 12:10 PM

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QUOTE(robertngo @ May 19 2010, 09:43 AM)
she will just marry the rich guy and have a affair with the smart one the get the smart babies  rolleyes.gif
*
... and hope that the rich guy won't be smart enuf to do a DNA test on the baby. laugh.gif
anti-informatic
post May 19 2010, 03:23 PM

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If getting PhD using own knowledge AND able to benefits others, then thats okay
otherwise what for want to get a permanent head damage with not much benefit in the long run...
den
post May 20 2010, 09:31 AM

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QUOTE(anti-informatic @ May 19 2010, 03:23 PM)
If getting PhD using own knowledge AND able to benefits others, then thats okay
otherwise what for want to get a permanent head damage with not much benefit in the long run...
*
nowadays,

degree = diploma

master = degree

phd = master

i have a few friends doing phd now. of course, most probably they are joining education line. no need working experience in the real industry.

This post has been edited by den: May 20 2010, 09:32 AM
Darkripper
post May 20 2010, 12:49 PM

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Just wondering.... to get PHD we need to do research and show our findings right? what if one guy research and get nth interesting, would he be able to get PHD?
communist892003
post May 20 2010, 01:33 PM

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QUOTE(den @ May 20 2010, 10:31 AM)
nowadays,

degree = diploma

master = degree

phd = master

i have a few friends doing phd now. of course, most probably they are joining education line. no need working experience in the real industry.
*
I got few America friends who did PHD without undergo Degree. PhD is all about research. Is not like u take a book and keep studying. It is about discovery dude. So treating this degree, master or PhD is not about lvling yourselves in online game. It would be so stupid to even think of it that way
TSBeastboy
post May 20 2010, 01:37 PM

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I heard of some VIPs who get a PhD without any study at all. laugh.gif
communist892003
post May 20 2010, 02:25 PM

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The question we need to ask, Do we need to learn how to have sex before having sex?? Could i skipped all this stupid procedure and just get the things done??

I am so good in computing that i am better than some of the degree students in computing. SO basically do i need to get a computing degree?? Or i should just skip it and go for master??

People committed to education and fanatic about it by assuming they do know had talent, they were not as good as bill gate and so now. Artificial talent

This post has been edited by communist892003: May 20 2010, 02:27 PM
VMSmith
post May 20 2010, 05:59 PM

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QUOTE(Darkripper @ May 20 2010, 12:49 PM)
Just wondering.... to get PHD we need to do research and show our findings right? what if one guy research and get nth interesting, would he be able to get PHD?
*
Yes. You need to do research and show your findings.

Getting "nth interesting" is not much of an issue, actually. The end result isn't so important so much as your ability to justify how and why you do certain things during your research. Of course, everyone wants "good results", but if all research came out with only "good results", we'd be able to launch a rocket to Mars with a single drop of water. Or find a cure to politicians.


Added on May 20, 2010, 6:03 pm
QUOTE(communist892003 @ May 20 2010, 02:25 PM)
I am so good in computing that i am better than some of the degree students in computing. SO basically do i need to get a computing degree?? Or i should just skip it and go for master??
That will depend on what you intend to do with that knowledge.

There's definitely a few programmers in the corporate sector who don't have a degree in computing/comp. sci.

If you intend to lecture/research, tough luck. You'll have to start on a degree level and work your way up.

This post has been edited by VMSmith: May 20 2010, 06:03 PM
den
post May 21 2010, 09:28 AM

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QUOTE(communist892003 @ May 20 2010, 01:33 PM)
I got few America friends who did PHD without undergo Degree. PhD is all about research. Is not like u take a book and keep studying. It is about discovery dude. So treating this degree, master or PhD is not about lvling yourselves in online game. It would be so stupid to even think of it that way
*
Just what I had observed. Many years ago, it's rare to find someone who would go for PHD.
Whatever I mentioned has nothing that relate to online game.

Thanks.

and take a note that even for degree, we do not merely study a book.

This post has been edited by den: May 21 2010, 09:30 AM
beexa
post May 21 2010, 11:50 AM

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where Master is getting common nowadays... PhD will be common in near future, haha.

is really the education institute produce good graduate of PhD in future is in doubts.. hmm....
den
post May 21 2010, 03:02 PM

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QUOTE(beexa @ May 21 2010, 11:50 AM)
where Master is getting common nowadays... PhD will be common in near future, haha.

is really the education institute produce good graduate of PhD in future is in doubts.. hmm....
*
i believe the quality of master and phd graduate is ok. especially those with real working experience. biggrin.gif

i am only against those who go for phd, and join the education industry but fail in teaching
SUSf4tE
post May 21 2010, 03:10 PM

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Honestly the reason i am interested is for the dr title. If not its beter to just stop at masters.

If join education and not fail in teaching u got against?
OMG!
post May 21 2010, 03:43 PM

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QUOTE(den @ May 21 2010, 03:02 PM)

i am only against those who go for phd, and join the education industry but fail in teaching
*
Totally agree!!! rclxms.gif

do u know why those that have Phd but worst in teaching? i really wonder why they have the capabilites to achieve the highest qualifications but cannot show the capabilites in delivering the lecture. that is the most pathetic facts!=(

Normally Phd takes years of time to study, 3 years should be the minimum. my friends are going for Phd, her main reason is she loves teaching.she wants to be a scientist who can give inspirations to the many undergrds students.sound great right? lol.
besides Study for Phd, which i believe the time is quite flexible, she work part time by giving tuition just because she has the passion for it.


TSBeastboy
post May 21 2010, 04:02 PM

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I hear private college lecturers saying that without a PhD they cannot compete for a promotion. Its just the way the system works, a problem that can be traced all the way back to the student's parents. How? Parents want to send their kids to colleges that have the "best" lecturers. Their definition of "best?" A lecturer that has a Dr title. So what do the colleges do? Tell their teaching staff sorry, no doctrate, no promotion for you.

In the end, its all about the moolah. Sad.

highwind85
post May 21 2010, 04:02 PM

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QUOTE(communist892003 @ May 20 2010, 01:33 PM)
I got few America friends who did PHD without undergo Degree.
*
Not applicable for all fields i guess..There are research on science, political science and etc....you'll need basic knowledge and techniques from your degree if you are to do research in science..


Added on May 21, 2010, 4:04 pm
QUOTE(Darkripper @ May 20 2010, 12:49 PM)
Just wondering.... to get PHD we need to do research and show our findings right? what if one guy research and get nth interesting, would he be able to get PHD?
*
Every outcome is a a finding yo..even if it deviates from you initial hypothesis, it is still a finding..

This post has been edited by highwind85: May 21 2010, 04:04 PM
arthurlwf
post May 21 2010, 04:04 PM

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Does anybody have any PhD holder comparison information between Malaysia and advance country (e.g. US, UK, Japan, German,etc)???
VMSmith
post May 21 2010, 04:07 PM

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QUOTE(OMG! @ May 21 2010, 03:43 PM)
do u know why those that have Phd but worst in teaching? i really wonder why they have the capabilites to achieve the highest qualifications but cannot show the capabilites in delivering the lecture. that is the most pathetic facts!=(
They have the highest qualification because they have the ability to do research, come up with a thesis and defend it. While teaching should be something a PhD holder can do well, it's unfortunately not the main point.

Think about it, you get a PhD by doing research, but no amount of teaching will get you that PhD.

highwind85
post May 21 2010, 04:08 PM

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QUOTE(OMG! @ May 21 2010, 03:43 PM)
Totally agree!!! rclxms.gif

do u know why those that have Phd but worst in teaching? i really wonder why they have the capabilites to achieve the highest qualifications but cannot show the capabilites in delivering the lecture. that is the most pathetic facts!=(

Normally Phd takes years of time to study, 3 years should be the minimum. my friends are going for Phd, her main reason is she loves teaching.she wants to be a scientist who can give inspirations to the many undergrds students.sound great right? lol.
besides Study for Phd, which i believe the time is quite flexible, she work part time by giving tuition just because she has the passion for it.
*
hold your horses bro..not everyone is good at giving lecture..Some people are brilliant in research...asking the correct question and addressing them with their research..and hence findings that would answer that said question..Human has strengths and weaknesses..Not all PhD will end up as academicians in the end..
VMSmith
post May 21 2010, 04:10 PM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 21 2010, 04:02 PM)
I hear private college lecturers saying that without a PhD they cannot compete for a promotion. Its just the way the system works, a problem that can be traced all the way back to the student's parents. How? Parents want to send their kids to colleges that have the "best" lecturers. Their definition of "best?" A lecturer that has a Dr title. So what do the colleges do? Tell their teaching staff sorry, no doctrate, no promotion for you.

In the end, its all about the moolah. Sad.
*
That may be true. But I can tell you another reason for this. There's too many people who graduate with a Master's degree, just as there's too many people graduating with a regular degree nowadays.

Heck, there's too many PhD grads nowadays as well.

highwind85
post May 21 2010, 04:13 PM

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QUOTE(arthurlwf @ May 21 2010, 04:04 PM)
Does anybody have any PhD holder comparison information between Malaysia and advance country (e.g. US, UK, Japan, German,etc)???
*
Hmm..That would really depends..If you're talking about science, then i would depend on the quality of the supervisor, equipments, support staff and etc...
arthurlwf
post May 21 2010, 04:18 PM

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QUOTE(VMSmith @ May 21 2010, 04:10 PM)
That may be true. But I can tell you another reason for this. There's too many people who graduate with a Master's degree, just as there's too many people graduating with a regular degree nowadays.

Heck, there's too many PhD grads nowadays as well.
*
Do you have statistics information to back your claim?


Added on May 21, 2010, 4:22 pm
QUOTE(highwind85 @ May 21 2010, 04:13 PM)
Hmm..That would really depends..If you're talking about science, then i would depend on the quality of the supervisor, equipments, support staff and etc...
*
It seems most PhD holder in advance country produces a lot of new research articles... But hardly/almost zero to hear PhD holder in Malaysia produce significant research result.

This post has been edited by arthurlwf: May 21 2010, 04:22 PM
VMSmith
post May 21 2010, 04:22 PM

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QUOTE(arthurlwf @ May 21 2010, 04:18 PM)
Do you have statistics information to back your claim?
*
Only anecdotal evidence. About as valid as people saying there's too many graduate degree holders.



Edit: Okay, because I HAD to google it up...

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/2009-...neer-jobs_N.htm

http://forums.xkcd.com/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=56573



This post has been edited by VMSmith: May 21 2010, 04:33 PM
highwind85
post May 21 2010, 04:51 PM

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QUOTE(VMSmith @ May 21 2010, 04:22 PM)
Only anecdotal evidence. About as valid as people saying there's too many graduate degree holders.
Edit: Okay, because I HAD to google it up...

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/2009-...neer-jobs_N.htm

http://forums.xkcd.com/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=56573
*
That's only in US and other developed countries...Imagine this..US has thousands of universities..they produce countless PhDs per year..and PhDs all over the world go to US to work as Post-Docs...so now, how many faculty positions can US offer?


Added on May 21, 2010, 4:53 pm
QUOTE(arthurlwf @ May 21 2010, 04:18 PM)
It seems most PhD holder in advance country produces a lot of new research articles... But hardly/almost zero to hear PhD holder in Malaysia produce significant research result.
*
This is because advanced universities have more research grants, can employ a strong support group..Let me give you an example..If you research work involves statistical analysis..Excellent universities have Statistical Unit to help students and staffs to aid them in their experimental design..Local students have to scratch their head, figure out on it's own...

This post has been edited by highwind85: May 21 2010, 04:57 PM
VMSmith
post May 21 2010, 04:56 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ May 21 2010, 04:51 PM)
That's only in US and other developed countries...Imagine this..US has thousands of universities...and PhDs all over the world go to US to work as Post-Docs...so now you tell me..how many faculty positions can US offer?
You didn't bother reading my links, right? There's a lack of jobs available for PhD holders there.

Or maybe you want something closer to home?

http://skorcareer.com.my/blog/phd-holder-n...ver/2009/08/29/

highwind85
post May 21 2010, 05:05 PM

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QUOTE(VMSmith @ May 21 2010, 04:56 PM)
You didn't bother reading my links, right? There's a lack of jobs available for PhD holders there.

Or maybe you want something closer to home?

http://skorcareer.com.my/blog/phd-holder-n...ver/2009/08/29/
*
I'm talking about at home..aka Malaysia..the bolehland..Singapore is known to be very competitive in research..
This is because they do not mind hiring the best minds from abroad..There are alot of China Chinese working in singapore as Post-Docs..
Yeah..lack of job because the numbers of universities are high..thus creating a lot of PhDs in the process..The a lot of PhD from abroad will look for Post-docs positions in the US...So there are really a lot of PhDs there..It's not a surprise if there's a lack of job...Besides PhD is very specific..You can't work in any PhD vacancies just because you have a PhD..


This post has been edited by highwind85: May 21 2010, 05:08 PM
VMSmith
post May 21 2010, 05:11 PM

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Ah. Why didn't you say so earlier then?

Nope, no evidence to support that. Purely anecdotal.
highwind85
post May 21 2010, 05:21 PM

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QUOTE(VMSmith @ May 21 2010, 05:11 PM)
Ah. Why didn't you say so earlier then?

Nope, no evidence to support that. Purely anecdotal.
*
Haha...yeah..didn't make myself clear enough before i edit the post..
I'm not suggesting that we should go to developing countries to work but in countries like indonesia, one can become lecturer by just having a masters degree in a science field..So i would say that they require more PhD holders in their country..

This post has been edited by highwind85: May 21 2010, 05:22 PM
VMSmith
post May 21 2010, 05:29 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ May 21 2010, 05:21 PM)
Haha...yeah..didn't make myself clear enough before i edit the post..
I'm not suggesting that we should go to developing countries to work but in countries like indonesia, one can become lecturer by just having a masters degree in a science field..So i would say that they require more PhD holders in their country..
*
No arguments here. There's actually still a few (private) tertiary education-level institutes here which accept Masters degrees for a lecturing post, but the rate in which private unis are upping the requirement to PhD. level is getting faster.

highwind85
post May 21 2010, 05:34 PM

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QUOTE(VMSmith @ May 21 2010, 05:29 PM)
No arguments here. There's actually still a few (private) tertiary education-level institutes here which accept Masters degrees for a lecturing post, but the rate in which private unis are upping the requirement to PhD. level is getting faster.
*
Yeah..this is a good sign..but then again, only large private institutions can afford that...not to say that other institutions cannot afford PhD holders, but the facilities the university can provide them to start a research group is limited if compared to public institutions..This would make it less attractive..
ComposMentis
post May 25 2010, 06:13 PM

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I think for most people it's for money,reputation and interest,very less people actually doing it out of their parents' pressure smile.gif
vivienne85
post May 25 2010, 09:03 PM

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personal satisfaction?
ComposMentis
post May 27 2010, 12:03 AM

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QUOTE(vivienne85 @ May 25 2010, 09:03 PM)
personal satisfaction?
*
huh???
years of hard work is just for personal satisfaction???

sakaic
post May 27 2010, 12:20 AM

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why not ?

after all why was the mona lisa painted ?

I would......wait.......I am doing m post grad cos of interest so yeah.....

why not ?
TSBeastboy
post May 27 2010, 11:06 AM

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I would love to do a doctrate on social evolution if I could because I like the topic. But I dun wanna eat grass for the next 4 years... laugh.gif


sakaic
post May 28 2010, 11:44 AM

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try applying to uni with a department in social sciences then apply for grant.
ComposMentis
post May 28 2010, 02:12 PM

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QUOTE(sakaic @ May 27 2010, 12:20 AM)
why not ?

after all why was the mona lisa painted ?

I would......wait.......I am doing m post grad cos of interest so yeah.....

why not ?
*
but i don't think many people would do that hmm.gif
highwind85
post May 31 2010, 01:31 AM

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QUOTE(ComposMentis @ May 28 2010, 02:12 PM)
but i don't think many people would do that  hmm.gif
*
But definitely not because of money...it's faster if you join banking or sales..
ComposMentis
post May 31 2010, 11:27 AM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ May 31 2010, 01:31 AM)
But definitely not because of money...it's faster if you join banking or sales..
*
I'm sure certain people do pursue a phd merely for the purpose of higher earning ,you know ,due to the false doctrine from the society ---- the higher your academic achievement ,the more money you earn

This post has been edited by ComposMentis: May 31 2010, 11:35 AM
TSBeastboy
post May 31 2010, 11:44 AM

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Yup, it also attracts the antisocials who prefer to struggle with books in the library rather than be a lamp post at some frat party. The catch of the day for party animal is girls, for the antisocial his academic scrolls. At the end of 50 years though, I'd say the academic scroll is probably easier to look at than the old chick you once hit on. icon_rolleyes.gif


highwind85
post May 31 2010, 12:08 PM

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Trust me...if you're in for the money, you better look elsewhere...Average PhD holder start working as lecturer in the last 20s or early 30s...Starting pay is around Rm4.5k excluding allowance..by this time, other people who work earlier can achieve rm5k easily...as they have 5-6 years of experience..and not everyone can reach the peak of an academic career...not everyone can attain professorship..and if you're climbing the corporate ladder, they would have chosen MBA rather than PhD...
exsaga
post Jun 1 2010, 02:23 AM

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i would say getting a PhD as a ticket for respectful life.
while the research work during PhD studentship is just a beginning towards later professorial stage.
NaShRiCk
post Jun 1 2010, 02:25 AM

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does PhD guarantee u a work?
VMSmith
post Jun 1 2010, 03:13 AM

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Nothing in life is a guarantee.
highwind85
post Jun 1 2010, 09:47 AM

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QUOTE(exsaga @ Jun 1 2010, 02:23 AM)
i would say getting a PhD as a ticket for respectful life.
while the research work during PhD studentship is just a beginning towards later professorial stage.
*
Well said... rclxms.gif
TSBeastboy
post Jun 1 2010, 09:52 AM

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QUOTE(VMSmith @ Jun 1 2010, 03:13 AM)
Nothing in life is a guarantee.
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Except death and taxes.
VMSmith
post Jun 1 2010, 09:59 AM

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Yeah. I should have said that. haha
ComposMentis
post Jun 1 2010, 11:40 AM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ Jun 1 2010, 09:52 AM)
Except death and taxes.
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this is so true laugh.gif

This post has been edited by ComposMentis: Jun 1 2010, 11:40 AM
CleverDick
post Jun 2 2010, 12:25 AM

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QUOTE(NaShRiCk @ Jun 1 2010, 02:25 AM)
does PhD guarantee u a work?
*
most probably yes,but if you don't have much working experience before attaining the phd title,then your starting salary will be comparatively lower than a Master or Bachelor degree holders who possess much longer working experience than you...
TSBeastboy
post Jun 2 2010, 10:34 AM

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QUOTE(NaShRiCk @ Jun 1 2010, 02:25 AM)
does PhD guarantee u a work?
*
PhDs can get work if they're not picky. Here's a PhD from Standford who got booted from his job and ended up as a Singapore taxi driver.

http://taxidiary.blogspot.com/

highwind85
post Jun 2 2010, 11:13 AM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ Jun 2 2010, 10:34 AM)
PhDs can get work if they're not picky. Here's a PhD from Standford who got booted from his job and ended up as a Singapore taxi driver.

http://taxidiary.blogspot.com/
*
This type of case can happen to anyone..not only PhD holders..such as company management taken over by someone, CEO, MD told to pack and go...happens all the time..
happy_pink
post Jun 3 2010, 10:09 PM

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if my degree is biotech
my master or phd must be in biotech also?
lin00b
post Jun 3 2010, 10:44 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 3 2010, 10:09 PM)
if my degree is biotech
my master or phd must be in biotech also?
*
in a word, no; but dont expect biotech degree can get nuclear engineering masters/phD
highwind85
post Jun 3 2010, 10:44 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 3 2010, 10:09 PM)
if my degree is biotech
my master or phd must be in biotech also?
*
No..of course not..Science is an interdisciplinary field...
but having the relevant skills and background would help you persuade prospective supervisors to take you..
It's not so crucial though..
corad
post Jun 4 2010, 06:22 AM

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I would say it depends on what you're looking for. getting a PHD gives you really good exposure to research, at the expense of finances, generally speaking.

so if you're really into what you're studying, and can't think of doing anything else ... by all means get a PHD. but if you're hoping to get that BMW M6 before you're 25 ... better off start getting a job 1st smile.gif


dotcom
post Jun 4 2010, 10:45 AM

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No point you get a PhD on younger age as you had no working experience and it's a useless
why you wan to get
P-ermanent
h-ead
D-amage

would suggest you to get a job...get more pro cert and when matured enough with your working experience then u go get ur P-h-D
highwind85
post Jun 4 2010, 10:53 AM

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QUOTE(corad @ Jun 4 2010, 06:22 AM)
I would say it depends on what you're looking for. getting a PHD gives you really good exposure to research, at the expense of finances, generally speaking.

so if you're really into what you're studying, and can't think of doing anything else ... by all means get a PHD. but if you're hoping to get that BMW M6 before you're 25 ... better off start getting a job 1st smile.gif
*
Couldn't say it better myself..Career as an academic will only stabilize in the 30s...

QUOTE(dotcom @ Jun 4 2010, 10:45 AM)
No point you get a PhD on younger age as you had no working experience and it's a useless
why you wan to get
P-ermanent
h-ead
D-amage

would suggest you to get a job...get more pro cert and when matured enough with your working experience then u go get ur P-h-D
*
depends on what field you're in...if you are in biology or chemistry field, undergraduate knows too little to apply it in R & D..

This post has been edited by highwind85: Jun 4 2010, 10:54 AM
happy_pink
post Jun 4 2010, 02:00 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 3 2010, 09:44 PM)
No..of course not..Science is an interdisciplinary field...
but having the relevant skills and background would help you persuade prospective supervisors to take you..
It's not so crucial though..
*
so my phd can be in chemistry or bio?
anyone studying phd right now?

does malaysia lack of phd or lecturers in bio and che field?
highwind85
post Jun 4 2010, 04:40 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 4 2010, 02:00 PM)
so my phd can be in chemistry or bio?
anyone studying phd right now?

does malaysia lack of phd or lecturers in bio and che field?
*
Let me put it this way...there are intersections between chemistry and biology..
If you have a degree in pure chemistry, it's not very possible to study ecology or bio diversity for PhD..
But if you have a degree in organic chemistry or food science, it's possible to study molecular biology or biochemistry for your PhD..
The difference must not be too extreme..
happy_pink
post Jun 4 2010, 09:21 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 4 2010, 03:40 PM)
Let me put it this way...there are intersections between chemistry and biology..
If you have a degree in pure chemistry, it's not very possible to study ecology or bio diversity for PhD..
But if you have a degree in organic chemistry or food science, it's possible to study molecular biology or biochemistry for your PhD..
The difference must not be too extreme..
*
me is biotech
so phd can be in wat field?
highwind85
post Jun 4 2010, 09:26 PM

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Depends on what your interest is...it is too difficult to tell you what you can do PhD in what field..Any subjects or course that attracted your attention?
Biotech grads can do PhD in biochem, molecularbiology, tissue culture, transgenic organisms etc etc...
happy_pink
post Jun 4 2010, 10:18 PM

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ya biochem
corad
post Jun 4 2010, 10:47 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 4 2010, 09:21 PM)
me is biotech
so phd can be in wat field?
*
if you're even asking this question, i don't think you should get a PHD for your subject.

hard work is not enough to grant you one. there must be interest ...and alot of it ! if you've ever wished you never took biotech , then sorry to say you'll probably drop out of the PHD program due to it being "hard" , "boring" or "irrevelant" .
highwind85
post Jun 4 2010, 11:02 PM

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QUOTE(corad @ Jun 4 2010, 10:47 PM)
if you're even asking this question, i don't think you should get a PHD for your subject.

hard work is not enough to grant you one. there must be interest ...and alot of it ! if you've ever wished you never took biotech , then sorry to say you'll probably drop out of the PHD program due to it being "hard" , "boring" or "irrevelant" .
*
Second that...PhD is not like Masters..It's not like "i don't what to do after graduation...maybe i should do a PhD before i decide"
You should be very clear before you take up PhD..
SUSf4tE
post Jun 4 2010, 11:15 PM

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master and phd also same only ma.. phd just an extension of masters. You're still doing research project. No changes only the title
highwind85
post Jun 4 2010, 11:44 PM

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QUOTE(f4tE @ Jun 4 2010, 11:15 PM)
master and phd also same only ma.. phd just an extension of masters. You're still doing research project. No changes only the title
*
That a wrong perception...after PhD you're an expert of the field you're in...you'll see PhD holder giving comments and consultation but not masters..
Once you've chosen your specialization, there's no turning back..

This post has been edited by highwind85: Jun 4 2010, 11:45 PM
happy_pink
post Jun 5 2010, 06:49 PM

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QUOTE(corad @ Jun 4 2010, 09:47 PM)
if you're even asking this question, i don't think you should get a PHD for your subject.

hard work is not enough to grant you one. there must be interest ...and alot of it ! if you've ever wished you never took biotech , then sorry to say you'll probably drop out of the PHD program due to it being "hard" , "boring" or "irrevelant" .
*
ok first of all
i choose biotech because i like genetics, research.
but in malaysia this field is not very developed
so will be difficult to get job and go for far
and i searched internet
in usa, almost 40% of biotechnologists are phd holders
it means u cant go very far with your degree
u really need to be expert on the field u going to research


i cant deny that i got a bit regret choosing biotech because of the job prospects in malaysia
but in term of course, things that i going to be study, i really like it


plus i love teaching
so my aim is to become a lecturer
so that i can research and teach
and most ipta and ipts in malaysia require the lecturers to have phd


actually does malaysia lack of bio or che phd?


can give some advice ?
thanks
correct me if i am wrong smile.gif
highwind85
post Jun 5 2010, 07:33 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 5 2010, 06:49 PM)
ok first of all
i choose biotech because i like genetics, research.
but in malaysia this field is not very developed
so will be difficult to get job and go for far
and i searched internet
in usa, almost 40% of biotechnologists are phd holders
it means u cant go very far with your degree 
u really need to be expert on the field u going to research
i cant deny that i got a bit regret choosing biotech because of the job prospects in malaysia
but in term of course, things that i going to be study, i really like it
plus i love teaching
so my aim is to become a lecturer
so that i can research and teach
and most ipta and ipts in malaysia require the lecturers to have phd
actually does malaysia lack of bio or che phd?
can give some advice ?
thanks
correct me if i am wrong smile.gif
*
It depends on your personally...the biotech arena in malaysia is still at its infancy...most biotech companies are very small..
This is a growing stage...if you ask me how fast is biotech growing? i would say it is quite slow..people are not so willing pumping in money for research..
So it depends on whether are you willing to be part of the biotech development or not?
if you are willing, you can try to get a PhD and subsequently work as postdocs in overseas for a few years before coming back with valuable experience to expand the biotech field here..
But then again, sometimes people tend to stay at overseas due to numerous factors..

Being a lecturer is not only about teaching and lecturing is not the only path for biotech PhD grads..you need to be clear about that 1st.. smile.gif
den
post Jun 5 2010, 09:53 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 4 2010, 11:02 PM)
Second that...PhD is not like Masters..It's not like "i don't what to do after graduation...maybe i should do a PhD before i decide"
You should be very clear before you take up PhD..
*
do you guys mean that after master's degree... one can still opt to specialize in other field for phd? tongue.gif

if someone who has M. Eng Telecommunication (more on networking), can he opt to do PhD in ICT? tongue.gif
highwind85
post Jun 6 2010, 12:01 AM

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QUOTE(den @ Jun 5 2010, 09:53 PM)
do you guys mean that after master's degree... one can still opt to specialize in other field for phd?  tongue.gif

if someone who has M. Eng Telecommunication (more on networking), can he opt to do PhD in ICT?  tongue.gif
*
PhD is quite specific...Like if you do Masters in Enzymology, you could still do your PhD in Protein Engineering...
You can change focus but not exactly from one field to a very different field..as you need the background for PhD..
But once you've completed you PhD, it's not possible to change anymore...people will regard you as an expert in protein engineering..

More examples are degree in chemistry or biochemistry can do masters in research related to pharmacy, degree in microbiology doing research in food science...they are different by related..

This post has been edited by highwind85: Jun 6 2010, 12:14 AM
den
post Jun 6 2010, 08:45 AM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 6 2010, 12:01 AM)
PhD is quite specific...Like if you do Masters in Enzymology, you could still do your PhD in Protein Engineering...
You can change focus but not exactly from one field to a very different field..as you need the background for PhD..
But once you've completed you PhD, it's not possible to change anymore...people will regard you as an expert in protein engineering..

More examples are degree in chemistry or biochemistry can do masters in research related to pharmacy, degree in microbiology doing research in food science...they are different by related..
*
Thanks.

I think Telecommunication (incl some networking modules like network management, network security, mobile communication, network switching and design etc) is somehow related to ICT, right? sweat.gif
highwind85
post Jun 6 2010, 10:49 AM

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QUOTE(den @ Jun 6 2010, 08:45 AM)
Thanks.

I think Telecommunication (incl some networking modules like  network management, network security, mobile communication, network switching and design etc) is somehow related to ICT, right?  sweat.gif
*
If it's related, yeah....
I have a lecturer with BSc and MSc in mathematics and PhD in Marine Science..
This is because he derived some formula and used it to write a software to do with marine science...
happy_pink
post Jun 6 2010, 11:28 AM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 6 2010, 09:49 AM)
If it's related, yeah....
I have a lecturer with BSc and MSc in mathematics and PhD in Marine Science..
This is because he derived some formula and used it to write a software to do with marine science...
*
i saw most uni offer phd in science

means wat?


public uni also
no uni offer phd in biotech or biochem
highwind85
post Jun 6 2010, 11:43 AM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 6 2010, 11:28 AM)
i saw most uni offer phd in science

means wat?
public uni also
no uni offer phd in biotech or biochem
*
That is the title only...UKM does offer PhD (Biochemistry)..But what's more important is the project you worked on...
When you go for interview, people will ask you to elaborate in length what did you work on...
Have in mind that PhD is structureless and there are no lectures..
happy_pink
post Jun 6 2010, 11:49 AM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 6 2010, 10:43 AM)
That is the title only...UKM does offer PhD (Biochemistry)..But what's more important is the project you worked on...
When you go for interview, people will ask you to elaborate in length what did you work on...
Have in mind that PhD is structureless and there are no lectures..
*
means after u enter only u choose to do your projects in certain field?
wow
good

so u have to discover somethings or create somethings?
very interesting nod.gif
but i think quite hard
need a bit of luck
and a LOT OF HARDWORK

normally the duration is 3 years right?
y i saw some in us can finish phd in 1 or 2 years?
need to attend conference?
publish idea in journals?

This post has been edited by happy_pink: Jun 6 2010, 11:52 AM
highwind85
post Jun 6 2010, 12:04 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 6 2010, 11:49 AM)
means after u enter only u choose to do your projects in certain field?
wow
good

so u have to discover somethings or create somethings?
very interesting  nod.gif
but i think quite hard
need a bit of luck
and a LOT OF HARDWORK

normally the duration is 3 years right?
y i saw some in us can finish phd in 1 or 2 years?
need to attend conference?
publish idea in journals?
*
Usually, one will look for a prospective supervisor 1st...discuss with him/her what's the project about
If the supervisor agrees to take you, the next thing should be lodge an application for the PhD and look for scholarships
In this way, you would already know which area you are going to research in..

yeah...lots of hardwork, a little bit of luck and creativity..but sometimes if the findings deviate from your expectation, it's not that bad either..
Minimum duration is 3 years, but for bio grads, hardly possible to make it in 3 years..mostly 3.5 years at my place, and 5 years in UKM...I don't know in anyway one can finish PhD in 1-2 years..
Conference and publications are very much encouraged...but again you need to secure money for conference..sometimes lecturers are willing to sponsor you..sometimes not..
Nah..i've just started my PhD 3 months ago..
spikyz
post Jun 6 2010, 12:45 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 6 2010, 11:28 AM)
i saw most uni offer phd in science

means wat?
public uni also
no uni offer phd in biotech or biochem
*
Hope this help u, UM have biotech

http://www.thestar.com.my/education/story....5&sec=education
happy_pink
post Jun 6 2010, 10:06 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 6 2010, 11:04 AM)
Usually, one will look for a prospective supervisor 1st...discuss with him/her what's the project about
If the supervisor agrees to take you, the next thing should be lodge an application for the PhD and look for scholarships
In this way, you would already know which area you are going to research in..

yeah...lots of hardwork, a little bit of luck and creativity..but sometimes if the findings deviate from your expectation, it's not that bad either..
Minimum duration is 3 years, but for bio grads, hardly possible to make it in 3 years..mostly 3.5 years at my place, and 5 years in UKM...I don't know in anyway one can finish PhD in 1-2 years..
Conference and publications are very much encouraged...but again you need to secure money for conference..sometimes lecturers are willing to sponsor you..sometimes not..
Nah..i've just started my PhD 3 months ago..
*
so long?
then i will be an old aunt. doh.gif
u in wat field?
u work a few years only continue or juv stright away study?

highwind85
post Jun 6 2010, 10:29 PM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 6 2010, 10:06 PM)
so long?
then i will be an old aunt. doh.gif
u in wat field?
u work a few years only continue or juv stright away study?
*
I worked as RA at UKM for 1.5 years before i went to ANU for my PhD...Originally decided to do my PhD in UKM..but half way thru, i decided to give it a shot to apply overseas...
I have a biochemistry BSc..Now doing PhD in protein engineering and crystallography..
To be frank, career for a PhD holder will only stabilize in your 30s...if you decide to go for it, you'll have to brace yourself for that..PhD is not for the faint of heart..
happy_pink
post Jun 7 2010, 02:21 AM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 6 2010, 09:29 PM)
I worked as RA at UKM for 1.5 years before i went to ANU for my PhD...Originally decided to do my PhD in UKM..but half way thru, i decided to give it a shot to apply overseas...
I have a biochemistry BSc..Now doing PhD in protein engineering and crystallography..
To be frank, career for a PhD holder will only stabilize in your 30s...if you decide to go for it, you'll have to brace yourself for that..PhD is not for the faint of heart..
*
actually y u wanna do phd?
is malaysia lack of phd?
r u working now like part time?
get scholarship?
next time u wan work as wat?
u must be very good lo
first class honour from bsc to phd

is biochem your choice?
actually many of my friends don know wat to choose
is like choosing the course u really like or for the job prospects
we r afraid of choosing somethings we lke but hard to get job in the future
there is a huge difference between dream and reality cry.gif

This post has been edited by happy_pink: Jun 7 2010, 02:27 AM
highwind85
post Jun 7 2010, 08:11 AM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 7 2010, 02:21 AM)
actually y u wanna do phd?
is malaysia lack of phd?
r u working now like part time?
get scholarship?
next time u wan work as wat?
u must be very good lo
first class honour from bsc to phd

is biochem your choice?
actually many of my friends don know wat to choose
is like choosing the course u really like or for the job prospects
we r afraid of choosing somethings we lke but hard to get job in the future
there is a huge difference between dream and reality  cry.gif
*
Instead of asking others why they wanna do their PhD, why don't you ask yourself do you really want a PhD..
If you're unsure, you can always work as a RA while find out whether you like the work or not..Often we hear than PhD candidates lost their passion halfway through their project....There is no rush as taking PhD is 1 big decision that can change our life..
I'm not working now..I'm on scholarship..No one is willing to do PhD overseas without a scholarship..hefty fees and mediocre salary after graduate...But the life is more or less like working...
How do you define good job prospect? PhD is as you see it..Academic or research career...unless you wanna venture into sales after PhD..And like every other job, you need to be good in order to get employed..
Do not expect very high salary upon graduation...RM10k salary before 35 y/o is not very likely..
There's a whole world out there...do not limit yourself in Malaysia only..if you choose PhD, be prepared to work in overseas next time..
Biochem was my 1st choice when i applied for university..

OMG!
post Jun 7 2010, 11:01 AM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 7 2010, 08:11 AM)
Instead of asking others why they wanna do their PhD, why don't you ask yourself do you really want a PhD..
If you're unsure, you can always work as a RA while find out whether you like the work or not..Often we hear than PhD candidates lost their passion halfway through their project....There is no rush as taking PhD is 1 big decision that can change our life..
I'm not working now..I'm on scholarship..No one is willing to do PhD overseas without a scholarship..hefty fees and mediocre salary after graduate...But the life is more or less like working...
How do you define good job prospect? PhD is as you see it..Academic or research career...unless you wanna venture into sales after PhD..And like every other job, you need to be good in order to get employed..
Do not expect very high salary upon graduation...RM10k salary before 35 y/o is not very likely..
There's a whole world out there...do not limit yourself in Malaysia only..if you choose PhD, be prepared to work in overseas next time..
Biochem was my 1st choice when i applied for university..
*
i agree with mostly what u have mentioned there, esp the bold statement.=)
Doing Phd is not an easy and simple task, it need a lots of passions and hardwork,a dn more importantly ur passion on research.
I believe you do have a deep interest in the research on protein fields, so only u choose to do protein engineering.
I have a foreign professor in my university who did a good and high quality research on proteins, i still remember when one of my seniors,who do not have any little ideas on how to differentiates and understand about the various protein structures, the prof can figure out and explain in a more detailed way and patiently drew out 3 dimensional description of proteins in order to boost the understanding.
He has indeed shown his deep interest in this field.

Biochem is a very general degree indeed, lots of postgrads programme u can do after the degree. =D
I would somehow have in my mind that i will venture into emzymology in near future.=)
Would you mind to mention the scholarships that u currently attached to? In what sense do you feel that Phd is more like working ?

Another thing which i would like to add on is, Phd does not limit you only to research university or lab, it is more than what u could think of, if u r an expert in a certain field, do google out what the field emcompass, look for the prospects in the field.for perhaps a consultant in a factory and other working settings, like a food and nutrition centres are also in the scope.



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post Jun 7 2010, 12:15 PM

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QUOTE(OMG! @ Jun 7 2010, 11:01 AM)
i agree with mostly what u have mentioned there, esp the bold statement.=)
Doing Phd is not an easy and simple task, it need a lots of passions and hardwork,a dn more importantly ur passion on research.
I believe you do have a deep interest in the research on protein fields, so only u choose to do protein engineering.
I have a foreign professor in my university who did a good and high quality research on proteins, i still remember when one of my seniors,who do not have any little ideas on how to differentiates and understand about the various protein structures, the prof can figure out and explain in a more detailed way and patiently drew out 3 dimensional description of proteins in order to boost the understanding.
He has indeed shown his deep interest in this field.

Biochem is a very general degree indeed, lots of postgrads programme u can do after the degree. =D
I would somehow have in my mind that i will venture into emzymology in near future.=)
Would you mind to mention the scholarships that u currently attached to? In what sense do you feel that Phd is more like working ?

Another thing which i would like to add on is, Phd does not limit you only to research university or lab, it is more than what u could think of, if u r an expert in a certain field, do google out what the field emcompass, look for the prospects in the field.for perhaps a consultant in a factory and other working settings, like a food and nutrition centres are also in the scope.
*
To avoid confusion, need to clarify a bit here, most of the opinions i've given here are based on my observation in my field, i.e. bio related field and mayb chemistry..
To me, PhD (again research lab based) are more like working...have to be in the lab minimum 9-5pm, 5days a week..
That's the general rule of thumb..it's ok not to follow strictly to the 9-5pm rule occasionally as you may have errands to run..but supervisors expect you to work beyond the 9-5pm a day, 5 days a week concept...As opposed to economics or arts based PhD students, they have flexibility in terms of study time..
I'm on ANU PhD Scholarship offered by Australian National University..

Enzymology...that's a good 1...in which aspect? reaction mechanism, kinetics?
In malaysia, a lot of stuffs are still lagging behind, so it is up to you...whether you wanna venture into foreign land and bring back the knowledge and expertise and contribute back to the development of malaysian biotech scene..Most of the PhD grads i met during my RA-ship are now working in UK, Sweden, US...

This post has been edited by highwind85: Jun 7 2010, 12:18 PM
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post Jun 7 2010, 01:03 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 7 2010, 12:15 PM)

To me, PhD (again research lab based) are more like working...have to be in the lab minimum 9-5pm, 5days a week..
*
Thank Deus I'm not in your field / uni! I've have been given the boot a long time ago if this was a case. And so would a lot of my PhD. colleagues.
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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 7 2010, 11:15 AM)
To avoid confusion, need to clarify a bit here, most of the opinions i've given here are based on my observation in my field, i.e. bio related field and mayb chemistry..
To me, PhD (again research lab based) are more like working...have to be in the lab minimum 9-5pm, 5days a week..
That's the general rule of thumb..it's ok not to follow strictly to the 9-5pm rule occasionally as you may have errands to run..but supervisors expect you to work beyond the 9-5pm a day, 5 days a week concept...As opposed to economics or arts based PhD students, they have flexibility in terms of study time..
I'm on ANU PhD Scholarship offered by Australian National University..

Enzymology...that's a good 1...in which aspect? reaction mechanism, kinetics?
In malaysia, a lot of stuffs are still lagging behind, so it is up to you...whether you wanna venture into foreign land and bring back the knowledge and expertise and contribute back to the development of malaysian biotech scene..Most of the PhD grads i met during my RA-ship are now working in UK, Sweden, US...
*
the scholarship is quite hard to get
how u apply?
how they judge?
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QUOTE(VMSmith @ Jun 7 2010, 01:03 PM)
Thank Deus I'm not in your field / uni! I've have been given the boot a long time ago if this was a case. And so would a lot of my PhD. colleagues.
*
Haha...that's why i say this is limited to people who are doing research in the lab..
both my supervisors in UKM and ANU expect students to be at work latest 9am...they expect you to come during weekends as well..not so much different from working...

QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 7 2010, 01:26 PM)
the scholarship is quite hard to get
how u apply?
how they judge?
*
For this scholarship, they judge you based on your credentials, ie academic results, recommendation letters from your referees..there is no interview..
there are a lot of prestigious scholarships for postgraduate which do not require interview..like Commonwealth Scholarship and Endeavour Scholarship..
Purely based on academic excellence, recommendation letters, and essays you write..

1st step (Research Mode for bio..i'm not sure about others) is to approach a prospective supervisor..if he/she decides to take you, application to the university isn't much a problem..after that apply for scholarship using the offer letter you've obtained..
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In Monash (IT) it's pretty much the same. They just want your academic results and a research proposal from your selected supervisor (so yes, in this case, I had to choose my supervisor even before I applied official for my doctorate studies). No interview either.
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QUOTE(VMSmith @ Jun 7 2010, 02:16 PM)
In Monash (IT) it's pretty much the same. They just want your academic results and a research proposal from your selected supervisor (so yes, in this case, I had to choose my supervisor even before I applied official for my doctorate studies). No interview either.
*
sunway or aus campus?
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post Jun 7 2010, 11:21 PM

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Sunway. You're not encouraged to transfer to Australia midway through your studies though, since you'll have to re-apply for the scholarship over there, and apparently, it's somewhat harder to get it there.
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As smart as you are, there will be free stuffs from BSC this week. Belief it or not?
Free Ipad and many other items. Check out announcement tomorrow! smile.gif
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post Jun 8 2010, 08:28 AM

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QUOTE(rocket_jet @ Jun 7 2010, 11:48 PM)
As smart as you are, there will be free stuffs from BSC this week. Belief it or not?
Free Ipad and many other items. Check out announcement tomorrow! smile.gif
*
BSC? what is that?
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err i got one question here..forgive me if it was a stupid question i juz want to know..earlier u said Phd doesn't have lecture and structureless rite?..so how we want to know that we already complte our Phd?..how we know that we are ready to grad?..like in degree after we finish all subject and got a required CGPA we can grad..how about in Phd?
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QUOTE(Scar_face @ Jun 8 2010, 01:34 AM)
err i got one question here..forgive me if it was a stupid question i juz want to know..earlier u said Phd doesn't have lecture and structureless rite?..so how we want to know that we already complte our Phd?..how we know that we are ready to grad?..like in degree after we finish all subject and got a required CGPA we can grad..how about in Phd?
*
Not very true. It depends on which system you're doing your PhD in. The American system for example, is more akin to a structured course in the first 1-2 years (with exams that you have to pass and all), and then becomes a lectureless/structureless system, after you've chosen a supervisor and stuff (Typically you apply to a department, and then you only get the research supervisor after 1-2 years). This does mean that the typical length for a PhD there is about 5 years (Princeton is an exception, their PhDs last 4 years), compared to the British system (which I'm more familiar with) where PhD courses last 3 - 3.5 (if you're lucky, 4) years (3 for research + 1/2 year for preparation of the thesis), due to funding constraints. The British system is similar to what's being described above, where you pre-choose your supervisor before undertaking the PhD program.

Typically knowing when you have enough original material to compile a PhD thesis will be a matter of discussion between you and your supervisor, and you have to go through a defence (viva), where you'll either get a PhD, or be told that you have to do a rewrite and come back for another defence, or if it's not good enough, they might just award you a MPhil instead of a PhD. This is not a mere formality, it does happen.

This post has been edited by bgeh: Jun 8 2010, 10:29 AM
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QUOTE(bgeh @ Jun 8 2010, 10:28 AM)
Not very true. It depends on which system you're doing your PhD in. The American system for example, is more akin to a structured course in the first 1-2 years (with exams that you have to pass and all), and then becomes a lectureless/structureless system, after you've chosen a supervisor and stuff (Typically you apply to a department, and then you only get the research supervisor after 1-2 years). This does mean that the typical length for a PhD there is about 5 years (Princeton is an exception, their PhDs last 4 years), compared to the British system (which I'm more familiar with) where PhD courses last 3 - 3.5 (if you're lucky, 4) years (3 for research + 1/2 year for preparation of the thesis), due to funding constraints. The British system is similar to what's being described above, where you pre-choose your supervisor before undertaking the PhD program.

Typically knowing when you have enough original material to compile a PhD thesis will be a matter of discussion between you and your supervisor, and you have to go through a defence (viva), where you'll either get a PhD, or be told that you have to do a rewrite and come back for another defence, or if it's not good enough, they might just award you a MPhil instead of a PhD. This is not a mere formality, it does happen.
*
Yeah...great explanation..US PhD can take up to 7 years to complete due to the coursework component..
There are also some UK universities that started PhD with coursework prior to research work..PhDs like this takes longer time to complete..
The downgrade of PhD to MPhil also differs from place to place..At my place (Aus), candidate is advised to convert to MPhil halfway through the candidature if the progress is not of satisfactory..

@scarface: i believe this would help you understand the different PhD systems around the world...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phd


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post Jun 8 2010, 12:26 PM

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and to add, phd candidate is required to published their research finding in cited journal publishers.

in UPM for example, there are Graduate Research Fellowship (GRF) awards to the selected PhD candidates, monthly allowance about RM2.5k is not mistaken plus summore other allowances for local people.

but in return, UPM expected the candidate to publish at least 2 cited papers.
and bear in mind that it is worthy to own several journals when defensing your thesis during viva.

and when u graduated, u will obtain a cool 'Dr.' title in front of your name that make people 'wow' at you. smile.gif
Germany engineering PhD will obtain more cool additional title, "Dr. Ing."

This post has been edited by exsaga: Jun 8 2010, 12:29 PM
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post Jun 8 2010, 02:03 PM

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QUOTE(exsaga @ Jun 8 2010, 12:26 PM)
but in return, UPM expected the candidate to publish at least 2 cited papers.
and bear in mind that it is worthy to own several journals publish several journal articles when defensing your thesis during viva.
*
There. Fixed.
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QUOTE(exsaga @ Jun 8 2010, 12:26 PM)
and to add, phd candidate is required to published their research finding in cited journal publishers.

in UPM for example, there are Graduate Research Fellowship (GRF) awards to the selected PhD candidates, monthly allowance about RM2.5k is not mistaken plus summore other allowances for local people.

but in return, UPM expected the candidate to publish at least 2 cited papers.
and bear in mind that it is worthy to own several journals when defensing your thesis during viva.

and when u graduated, u will obtain a cool 'Dr.' title in front of your name that make people 'wow' at you.  smile.gif
Germany engineering PhD will obtain more cool additional title, "Dr. Ing."
*
RM2.5k is high..but bear in mind not all pay that well for PhD candidates..

NSF pays rm2.3k, USM fellowship around Rm2.1k with yearly increment, and UKM rm1.6k if BSc qualification or rm1.8k MSc qualification (subject to Supervisor's research grant)..

And not all universities require the findings to be published..but it is very encouraged that PhD students publish their findings as this will boost your CV..
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post Jun 8 2010, 02:38 PM

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Regarding viva, is there any uni. out there which DOESN'T practise it? Cause over here in Monash, we don't.
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post Jun 8 2010, 04:57 PM

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QUOTE(VMSmith @ Jun 8 2010, 02:38 PM)
Regarding viva, is there any uni. out there which DOESN'T practise it? Cause over here in Monash, we don't.
*
I think none in ANU as well...maybe it's australian system?
There is a final seminar presentation..but i doubt it can be regarded as viva because the thesis draft isn't submitted at this point and examiners haven't really gone through your project in detail..
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post Jun 9 2010, 12:55 PM

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i do think that is Australian system.
my concern is, is there no question arises since the thesis wasnt went through examination, defending, etc etc

and i also heard that some of the Japanese PhD studentship doesnt require to come up with any nobellity values? somebody can explain?
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QUOTE(exsaga @ Jun 9 2010, 12:55 PM)
i do think that is Australian system.
my concern is, is there no question arises since the thesis wasnt went through examination, defending, etc etc

and i also heard that some of the Japanese PhD studentship doesnt require to come up with any nobellity values? somebody can explain?
*
The thesis will go thru examination..after the final seminar@ oral presentation..it's an open seminar, so be prepared for questions also...just that it isn't as vigourous as an actual viva...
examiners will go through the thesis and you'll have to do correction when they return it to you...
You may have to do some correction to the drafts @ redo some experiments...
Hmm..that's rare...don't have to have novelty?
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post Jun 10 2010, 01:21 PM

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thanks for the correction.

spikyz
post Jun 11 2010, 05:39 PM

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in my uni, UNMC, we required to do Viva after completion of the thesis. For scholarship, NSF offer scholarship for MResc and PhD candidates. Got 4 times a year they will conduct an interview. check mosti website for further clarification
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QUOTE(exsaga @ Jun 8 2010, 12:26 PM)

Germany engineering PhD will obtain more cool additional title, "Dr. Ing."
*
in germany, they have specific title for every field instead of general 'phd'.
hence, a doctor of medicine is given Dr. med, a doctor of economy Dr. oec. and a doctor of music Dr. mus..
Heck, they even gave specific title for their undergraduates (prior to bologna process).
Dipl.-Ing. for engineering graduate, Dipl.-Kaufm. for business graduate (Dipl. titles for applied sciences), Mag. art. for arts graduate, Mag. iur. for law graduate (Mag. titles for social sciences)
and germans are most-obsessed with academic titles.

i am planning to pursue doctorate (in german is called promotion) after working for 2 years.
so, probably late this year or early next year.
i am lucky because i graduated with an old german undergraduate degree which is equivalent to master.
after 5 yrs of study.
half of my classmates went straight to do doctorate after undergraduate.

in germany and probably in many other developed countries, phd can be pursued in the industry.
i.e. you work at a certain company as phd student/candidate rather than at school.
(heck, i even completed my final year and undergraduate thesis while working at a company)
usually companies advertised this position in their website or job bourse, specifically looking for a phd candidate.
the candidate, when successfully selected, will work at the company like normal workers.
he/she will be given one projects that related to his/her phd. (this usually for applied sciences candidates)
apart of that, he/she will be given other tasks demanded by the company, as well.
he/she is treated as part of the company, received salary and benefits.
the downside is, all his research works will now belong to the company.
but he/she is still allowed to published the work under his/her name.

after completing the doctorate he/she can stay at the company, or pursue employment at other company.
not many end up as lecturer (like in malaysia).
you need to have many years of industrial experience before you can teach.
at least in engineering.
the universities usually will looked up among those in managerial position and ask them to teach.
most will take the job not because they need the money. (the pay is not that great from what i heard)
they took it up because they considered it an honour to teach.
they usually give lecture once a week on one specific topics.

those who want to teach straight away, must 1st enrolled in professorship program.
they will become teaching assistant (tutor) for at least 2 years (depending on the uni) before taking an exam for full professorship.
if passed, they can get another title habil. attached after the doctor before the specific field (not for engineering).
the full name is Habilitation, which is a license to teach. (mostly in classical universities).
applied sciences universities have an easier route.

most importantly, majority of successful doctorate candidates pursue employment in the industry.
they usually have the job title technologist or researcher or r&d/principal engineer.
and they get big bucks, usually 6 digit salary.
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post Jun 13 2010, 04:39 AM

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Aside from existing programs like SLAB/SLAI, NSF etc., anybody got any leads on any new schemes that the goverment will be introducings through the 10MP regarding PhD fundings? I heard on the news there would be funds allocated towards increasing PhD holders in the country.
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QUOTE(pleasuresaurus @ Jun 13 2010, 05:39 AM)
I heard on the news there would be funds allocated towards increasing PhD holders in the country.
*
there's plenty of Malaysian PhD holders. problem is, they're not in the country
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post Jun 13 2010, 10:38 PM

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Increasing numbers of PhD alone wouldn't be sufficient...they would end up in other countries as well if there isn't much opportunities in malaysia, or the salary are pathetically low..
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PhDs for me i think its more like an achievement in life. Its something you can feel very proud off when you retire and start to look back on what you have done with your life.

Tom, Dick and Harry has Degrees on the street, you can't say the same for PhDs.

It also has its own cons though, I have a friend who just got her PhD, came back here looking for a job. But all companies turned her down because she's "over" qualified a.k.a they can't afford her or something like that.

Sad but true.
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as for me, having a PHD doesnt mean u are good enough... old folks always think that by having master or phd, u will become someone that are better than others... what make u think like that???

yes u are better than others.. but, only on the fields that u are in... if u have a PHD in banking & finance, it wouldnt make u answer each and every question on the other fields such as religious, sports or even science...

if i were given a chance to further my study up until the PHD, its because i wanted to be an expert on that fields and makes something that have a big impact on human being & earth.... thumbup.gif
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QUOTE(kokakopi @ Jun 15 2010, 10:04 AM)
as for me, having a PHD doesnt mean u are good enough... old folks always think that by having master or phd, u will become someone that are better than others... what make u think like that???

yes u are better than others..  but, only on the fields that u are in... if u have a PHD in banking & finance, it wouldnt make u answer each and every question on the other fields such as religious, sports or even science...

if i were given a chance to further my study up until the PHD, its because i wanted to be an expert on that fields and makes something that have a big impact on human being & earth.... thumbup.gif
*
+1..
Masters and PhDs are human...not the almighty walking wikipedia...
but Masters and PhDs should live up to their title..such as PhD with BSc Chemistry should have strong fundamentals in chemistry and should be able to answer basic questions..
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post Jun 21 2010, 06:50 PM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 15 2010, 12:19 PM)
+1..
Masters and PhDs are human...not the almighty walking wikipedia...
but Masters and PhDs should live up to their title..such as PhD with BSc Chemistry should have strong fundamentals in chemistry and should be able to answer basic questions..
*
your degree is biochem can your phd be physiology/anatomy/pharmacology?
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Personally, I want a PhD because then I'd get that awesome title of "Doctor".

Then, I can walk into a room and go..

"Hello I'm the Doctor".

And then wave a sonic screwdriver about and go "wibbly wobbly timey wimey".

Dead serious.
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post Jun 22 2010, 12:33 AM

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Haha. Maybe some people do their Masters so they can go:"And I'm the Master!".

cue evil laugh.
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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 21 2010, 06:50 PM)
your degree is biochem can your phd be physiology/anatomy/pharmacology?
*
Pharmacology yes....pharmacology is part of biochemistry...not so sure about anatomy and physiology though..
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QUOTE(James_Joyce @ Jun 21 2010, 03:11 PM)
Personally, I want a PhD because then I'd get that awesome title of "Doctor".

Then, I can walk into a room and go..

"Hello I'm the Doctor".

And then wave a sonic screwdriver about and go "wibbly wobbly timey wimey".

Dead serious.
*
i want a PhD so that my wife can play the nurse.
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post Jun 23 2010, 11:34 AM

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QUOTE(azarimy @ Jun 23 2010, 09:16 AM)
i want a PhD so that my wife can play the nurse.
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not patient?
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QUOTE(lin00b @ Jun 23 2010, 03:34 AM)
not patient?
*
patient is another woman drool.gif
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QUOTE(VMSmith @ Jun 22 2010, 12:33 AM)
Haha. Maybe some people do their Masters so they can go:"And I'm the Master!".

cue evil laugh.
*
Oh I guess I can already do that!
xenotzu
post Jun 23 2010, 07:34 PM

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By academic convention, only MD (medical doctors) are allowed to use Doctor before their name. Phd holders are not suppose to use the word Doctor before their names. Even Mahatir knew this and told NST during an interview prior to his retirement when asked about bogus Phds in Malaysia. Go to any reputable university and call a Phd holder a Doctor and listen to him quickly tell you about the convention. Of course, if its not a reputable university or someone who desperately wants to show off his Phd (real or bogus), then you find out the wannabes.


Added on June 23, 2010, 7:40 pm
QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 6 2010, 10:29 PM)
I worked as RA at UKM for 1.5 years before i went to ANU for my PhD...Originally decided to do my PhD in UKM..but half way thru, i decided to give it a shot to apply overseas...
I have a biochemistry BSc..Now doing PhD in protein engineering and crystallography..
To be frank, career for a PhD holder will only stabilize in your 30s...if you decide to go for it, you'll have to brace yourself for that..PhD is not for the faint of heart..
*

Added on June 23, 2010, 7:45 pmTo Highwind85, interesting to hear that you started a phd in biochem. If I were you, once you finish, look overseas for work and opportunities. Malaysia is still a ulu place for science research and industry. My brother in law had his phd from Imperial/Cambridge as it was a joint effort between the universities for his phd. He's a professor in NUS now and informs me that when it comes to many areas of science research, Malaysia does not publish enough papers internationally or is gearing its efforts to capitalise on science. Singapore does and is classed as developed world standard for such research and industry. Join the Brain Drain!

This post has been edited by xenotzu: Jun 23 2010, 07:45 PM
asuk
post Jun 24 2010, 12:12 AM

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QUOTE(xenotzu @ Jun 23 2010, 08:34 PM)
By academic convention, only MD (medical doctors) are allowed to use Doctor before their name.  Phd holders are not suppose to use the word Doctor before their names.  Even Mahatir knew this and told NST during an interview prior to his retirement when asked about bogus Phds in Malaysia.  Go to any reputable university and call a Phd holder a Doctor and listen to him quickly tell you about the convention.  Of course, if its not a reputable university or someone who desperately wants to show off his Phd (real or bogus), then you find out the wannabes.
it depends on where you are. western phd holders often insist to be addressed by their first name. try doing that to a phd-degree holding lecturer in malaysia. i call my supervisor dr. something-something anyway. how else are you going to address them?
highwind85
post Jun 24 2010, 11:13 AM

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QUOTE(xenotzu @ Jun 23 2010, 07:34 PM)
By academic convention, only MD (medical doctors) are allowed to use Doctor before their name.  Phd holders are not suppose to use the word Doctor before their names.  Even Mahatir knew this and told NST during an interview prior to his retirement when asked about bogus Phds in Malaysia.  Go to any reputable university and call a Phd holder a Doctor and listen to him quickly tell you about the convention.  Of course, if its not a reputable university or someone who desperately wants to show off his Phd (real or bogus), then you find out the wannabes.


Added on June 23, 2010, 7:40 pm


Added on June 23, 2010, 7:45 pmTo Highwind85, interesting to hear that you started a phd in biochem.  If I were you, once you finish, look overseas for work and opportunities.  Malaysia is still a ulu place for science research and industry.  My brother in law had his phd from Imperial/Cambridge as it was a joint effort between the universities for his phd.  He's a professor in NUS now and informs me that when it comes to many areas of science research, Malaysia does not publish enough papers internationally or is gearing its efforts to capitalise on science.  Singapore does and is classed as developed world standard for such research and industry.  Join the Brain Drain!
*
PhD holder can put the title depending on where they are going and it's their preference...Westerners wants students to call them by their 1st name..But doing so, it's more humble and friendlier..Still, they will use the title for official purposes...On the other hand, academics in malaysia prefer students to address them with the correct title...Dr, Assoc Prof and Prof...even my previous supervisor (senior lecturer) address his colleague as Prof...so it's the culture i guess..

And yeah...one of the reasons why malaysia has less publications is because PhD holder work as lecturers directly after graduation, whereas PhD holders cannot work as lecturers yet in more developed countries...they have to undertake 1 or 2 postdoc positions 1st before starting their own research group...Post docs are almost non-existent in Malaysia except a few institutes...
xenotzu
post Jun 25 2010, 02:35 AM

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I remember when I applied to do a Phd part time at Malaya Uni, the dean, librarians and my supervisor asked my why I didn't go overseas to do it since I was a UK graduate. Curious and a bit shocked, I asked them why and they replied that facilities and research was better overseas and far superior then MU anytime. After a few months, I understood why.
happy_pink
post Jun 25 2010, 02:44 PM

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if degree in food science and tech
phd can be in wat?

Psychology
post Jun 26 2010, 12:57 AM

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If you consider the main Pros and Cons, the reason you're going PHD is either for the fame, Dr. or the knowledge. Doing a couple years of study to increase my salary doesn't seem to outweigh working for a few years and becoming a CEO. For me at least.
gizmoduck
post Jul 8 2010, 11:49 AM

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I'm getting my phd so that I can patronize people. Especially my own children.
ComposMentis
post Jul 9 2010, 12:52 PM

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QUOTE(gizmoduck @ Jul 8 2010, 11:49 AM)
I'm getting my phd so that I can patronize people. Especially my own children.
*
haha this is a valid reason biggrin.gif
ComposMentis
post Jul 9 2010, 06:29 PM

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QUOTE(zyndex @ Jul 9 2010, 03:00 PM)
U can study abroad.
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and your reason for that is ?
Belphegor
post Jul 9 2010, 08:38 PM

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Reason of me wanting to get a PhD cause I'm majoring in Psychology, want to go deep into child development, for the sake of my future kids or better environment in related field. Still stuck in degree now. sad.gif
den
post Jul 10 2010, 08:16 AM

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QUOTE(Psychology @ Jun 26 2010, 12:57 AM)
If you consider the main Pros and Cons, the reason you're going PHD is either for the fame, Dr. or the knowledge. Doing a couple years of study to increase my salary doesn't seem to outweigh working for a few years and becoming a CEO. For me at least.
*
Work a few years can become CEO already? tongue.gif
ComposMentis
post Jul 10 2010, 09:36 AM

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QUOTE(Belphegor @ Jul 9 2010, 08:38 PM)
Reason of me wanting to get a PhD cause I'm majoring in Psychology, want to go deep into child development, for the sake of my future kids or better environment in related field. Still stuck in degree now. sad.gif
*
this sounds a bit like education essential inquiry , but allow me to ask , what are the job prospects for psychology graduates ?
Belphegor
post Jul 10 2010, 10:58 AM

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QUOTE(ComposMentis @ Jul 10 2010, 09:36 AM)
this sounds a bit like education essential inquiry , but allow me to ask , what are the job prospects for psychology graduates ?
*
Mostly professionals like psychiatrist, researcher on particular stuff, head hunter in bank, etc. I don't know why people are doubting the job opportunity for psychology graduates. Just think this way.. Our community is getting bigger and bigger, means higher chances of people getting depression or some other psychological illness. So why are you worrying about your future jobs?

p.s: psychologist is the most needed profession in Malaysia, said by my professor during my times in HELP (2005). Yeah five years ago but the number still never increase cause most of the fresh graduates went overseas.
CleverDick
post Jul 10 2010, 11:32 AM

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del.

This post has been edited by CleverDick: Jul 10 2010, 11:37 AM
ComposMentis
post Jul 10 2010, 11:33 AM

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QUOTE(Belphegor @ Jul 10 2010, 10:58 AM)
Mostly professionals like psychiatrist, researcher on particular stuff, head hunter in bank, etc. I don't know why people are doubting the job opportunity for psychology graduates. Just think this way.. Our community is getting bigger and bigger, means higher chances of people getting depression or some other psychological illness. So why are you worrying about your future jobs?

p.s: psychologist is the most needed profession in Malaysia, said by my professor during my times in HELP (2005). Yeah five years ago but the number still never increase cause most of the fresh graduates went overseas.
*
no I am not a psychology graduate , just curious about the job prospects smile.gif
nabelon
post Jul 19 2010, 12:36 AM

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Guys, I'm thinking of pursuing a Masters Degree in Economics or MBA, any of you know of any good scholarship out there ? Btw, I'm thinking of enrolling at LSE.

This post has been edited by nabelon: Jul 19 2010, 12:38 AM
ComposMentis
post Jul 19 2010, 04:52 PM

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QUOTE(nabelon @ Jul 19 2010, 12:36 AM)
Guys, I'm thinking of pursuing a Masters Degree in Economics or MBA, any of you know of any good scholarship out there ? Btw, I'm thinking of enrolling at LSE.
*
try to ask this on education essentials or this thread http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/1447870

zahirani
post Jul 22 2010, 11:24 AM

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want to get better salary so every month i can buy new ps3 games also with g27 logitech steering wheel to play with Gran Turismo 5!!

but the pain and suffering i bear right now is very heavy. sometimes do feel regret to continue study due to lower allowance. most of my friends are already have their own house, car and family. but i still in the studying phase.

sigh~ but i know if can finish my study, the future will be brighter for me...
to have a constant n high motivation in study is very important!


adrian1984
post Aug 9 2010, 04:45 AM

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QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 4 2010, 09:21 PM)
me is biotech
so phd can be in wat field?
*
QUOTE(happy_pink @ Jun 5 2010, 06:49 PM)
ok first of all
i choose biotech because i like genetics, research.
but in malaysia this field is not very developed
so will be difficult to get job and go for far
and i searched internet
in usa, almost 40% of biotechnologists are phd holders
it means u cant go very far with your degree 
u really need to be expert on the field u going to research
i cant deny that i got a bit regret choosing biotech because of the job prospects in malaysia
but in term of course, things that i going to be study, i really like it
plus i love teaching
so my aim is to become a lecturer
so that i can research and teach
and most ipta and ipts in malaysia require the lecturers to have phd
actually does malaysia lack of bio or che phd?
can give some advice ?
thanks
correct me if i am wrong smile.gif
*
Hi happy_pink,
I'm a biotech graduate and now doing master in medical science, majoring in medical microbiology, where my research title is to screen, identify and produce a bacteria protein.
I would advice you to aim for overseas study for your future.
Personally I want to further phd is because I really want to be expert in the field of my study, as well as self achievement. I never think of becoming a lecturer, but I do think of taking as a full time researcher as my career. If there is no vacancy in local, I will go to overseas.
A bio phd? well, is depends on which particular field. I plan to do synthetic biology in my future.


QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 6 2010, 10:29 PM)
I worked as RA at UKM for 1.5 years before i went to ANU for my PhD...Originally decided to do my PhD in UKM..but half way thru, i decided to give it a shot to apply overseas...
I have a biochemistry BSc..Now doing PhD in protein engineering and crystallography..
To be frank, career for a PhD holder will only stabilize in your 30s...if you decide to go for it, you'll have to brace yourself for that..PhD is not for the faint of heart..
*
wow highwind85, i do think of crystallizing my new found protein. is it possible i sent to you for x-ray diffraction? This is because I can't find people in Msia doing this. Nice to meet a structural biologist here. happy.gif

QUOTE(highwind85 @ Jun 8 2010, 02:29 PM)
RM2.5k is high..but bear in mind not all pay that well for PhD candidates..

NSF pays rm2.3k, USM fellowship around Rm2.1k with yearly increment, and UKM rm1.6k if BSc qualification or rm1.8k MSc qualification (subject to Supervisor's research grant)..

And not all universities require the findings to be published..but it is very encouraged that PhD students publish their findings as this will boost your CV..
*
well.. I already got 1 paper done and to be submitted, 2 papers writing up... but damn, i'm still doing my master... ==''

QUOTE(Belphegor @ Jul 9 2010, 08:38 PM)
Reason of me wanting to get a PhD cause I'm majoring in Psychology, want to go deep into child development, for the sake of my future kids or better environment in related field. Still stuck in degree now. sad.gif
*
I thought a "cane" will be always the best tool?
desmond~
post Aug 26 2010, 08:39 PM

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how abt DBA ?
The Envoy
post Aug 26 2010, 11:12 PM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 18 2010, 09:51 AM)
If anyone here has a PhD, can you share with us what made you decide to get a PhD?

Was it because

- better salary
- prestige
- job promotion
- genuine academic interest
- you didn't know what to do with life & you had a sponsor
- your father told you to

I did ask a couple of PhD's in real life. One said prestige, the other said better salary... which she now regrets becoz a lecturer's salary really sucks.

Does anyone really go for a PhD because they were truly interested in the knowledge?
*
I am starting my PhD next year and I can't be bothered to go through the rest of the posts due to my slow connection, so I'll just go ahead and type
(I have done lots of research and asking my PhD friends prior to taking this step)

1. brows.gif DO NOT DO A PHD THINKING OF THE EXTRA MONEY, except if you are already working as a lab assistant/helper in the academic line and wish to further your career within it (you can probably have a better shot at funding, being an insider). You will earn more money working those 3-5 years and end up in a better salary position at the end of it.

2. cool2.gif "Prestige" is a side benefit - do not go in solely because of that - a PhD is a long and costly road with many nights of hardship - not worth doing it just for that - in the end you are just another scientist

3. rclxub.gif you didn't know what to do with life & you had a sponsor - I suspect quite a number of PhD students do this - however, a lot of them also dropped out precisely because they started their PhD for this reason

4. doh.gif your father told you to - ... not sure what to say to this

5. thumbup.gif These are the best reasons for doing a PhD
(i) Wanting to discover something that benefits the world
(ii) (Really) Want a job in the academic line
(iii) Strong interest in your subject + hate having a boss hovering you all the time + hate routine/bodoh-type jobs

In short, a PhD is like a job in research, except you don't get paid in money, your "salary" is the experience, the results of your PhD research project (which may potentially change the world, gain you *ahem* your supervisor *ahem* fame) and of course, your doctorate degree and you can have everyone call you "Dr."

That is all folks whistling.gif
pleasuresaurus
post Aug 28 2010, 06:29 AM

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it would be nice to be a able to go back uni and bum around and lepak and stuff.....yeah, i'd do it for that.
maxsia
post Aug 30 2010, 03:43 AM

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why why why...... pursue of knowledge is only available for the rich! degree programs 70k master programs 100k phd i dono how much...... looks like i won't be having any sort of title or the ability to post articles and make intricate research into fields i truly interested just because i only f***ed up once in SPM.... sigh.. despair...
The Envoy
post Aug 30 2010, 06:54 PM

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QUOTE(maxsia @ Aug 30 2010, 03:43 AM)
why why why...... pursue of knowledge is only available for the rich!
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Not if you get a scholarship/sponsorship. And a part time job while you're doing it.
adrian1984
post Dec 13 2010, 09:38 AM

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QUOTE(pleasuresaurus @ Aug 28 2010, 06:29 AM)
it would be nice to be a able to go back uni and bum around and lepak and stuff.....yeah, i'd do it for that.
*
Haha, trust me, when you come back and get into graduate school, there is no time for you to lepak at all. You don't even have time for dating.
zymran
post Dec 15 2010, 08:57 PM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 18 2010, 09:51 AM)
If anyone here has a PhD, can you share with us what made you decide to get a PhD?

Was it because

- better salary
- prestige
- job promotion
- genuine academic interest
- you didn't know what to do with life & you had a sponsor
- your father told you to

I did ask a couple of PhD's in real life. One said prestige, the other said better salary... which she now regrets becoz a lecturer's salary really sucks.

Does anyone really go for a PhD because they were truly interested in the knowledge?
*
Better prospect for promotion. That was the initial reason.

Going through a phd, u get to learn how to do research in a proper and 'acceptable' manner. That is the most important benefit, but only if you work in research/academic. If not, work experience is more important than phd in most kind of professions.
fluene
post Dec 16 2010, 08:35 AM

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I'm a PhD holder. Reason why I did it? Hmm.. so that people can call me Dr. And .. people are more responsive when you say you are Dr. so and so
e-fatty
post Dec 21 2010, 12:26 PM

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QUOTE(fluene @ Dec 16 2010, 08:35 AM)
I'm a PhD holder.  Reason why I did it?  Hmm.. so that people can call me Dr.  And .. people are more responsive when you say you are Dr. so and so
*
you did your doctorate just to brag? Wow now that's sheer determination...
ingear
post Dec 22 2010, 10:45 AM

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haha... rclxms.gif

but then at the end, do you feel really good when you're being called Dr. so and so?


QUOTE(fluene @ Dec 15 2010, 08:35 PM)
I'm a PhD holder.  Reason why I did it?  Hmm.. so that people can call me Dr.  And .. people are more responsive when you say you are Dr. so and so
*

Added on December 22, 2010, 10:57 am
rclxms.gif rclxms.gif You make my day!
QUOTE(The Envoy @ Aug 26 2010, 11:12 AM)
I am starting my PhD next year and I can't be bothered to go through the rest of the posts due to my slow connection, so I'll just go ahead and type
(I have done lots of research and asking my PhD friends prior to taking this step)

1.  brows.gif DO NOT DO A PHD THINKING OF THE EXTRA MONEY, except if you are already working as a lab assistant/helper in the academic line and wish to further your career within it (you can probably have a better shot at funding, being an insider). You will earn more money working those 3-5 years and end up in a better salary position at the end of it.
Absolutely Agree!! If you want to be called Dr. and make money, do a Medical degree, MD, MBBS, or similar!!
QUOTE(The Envoy @ Aug 26 2010, 11:12 AM)
2.  cool2.gif "Prestige" is a side benefit - do not go in solely because of that - a PhD is a long and costly road with many nights of hardship - not worth doing it just for that - in the end you are just another scientist
Well said..
QUOTE(The Envoy @ Aug 26 2010, 11:12 AM)
3.  rclxub.gif you didn't know what to do with life & you had a sponsor - I suspect quite a number of PhD students do this - however, a lot of them also dropped out precisely because they started their PhD for this reason
Some of them did not have the gut to drop out, then they got kicked out, time and money wasted.

QUOTE(The Envoy @ Aug 26 2010, 11:12 AM)
4.  doh.gif your father told you to - ... not sure what to say to this
If you are not an independent thinker, don't consider the PhD route.

QUOTE(The Envoy @ Aug 26 2010, 11:12 AM)
5.  thumbup.gif These are the best reasons for doing a PhD
(i) Wanting to discover something that benefits the world
(ii) (Really) Want a job in the academic line
(iii) Strong interest in your subject + hate having a boss hovering you all the time + hate routine/bodoh-type jobs

In short, a PhD is like a job in research, except you don't get paid in money, your "salary" is the experience, the results of your PhD research project (which may potentially change the world, gain you *ahem* your supervisor *ahem* fame)  and of course, your doctorate degree and you can have everyone call you "Dr."

That is all folks  whistling.gif
*
rclxms.gif

This post has been edited by ingear: Dec 22 2010, 10:58 AM
Irzani
post Dec 22 2010, 02:57 PM

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Which one is better to continue phd ?

1) Work for two years - related computing job
2) Take another master in research (approx 2 years) - computing
3) Joint research (At least 1 journal)
4) Just continue .... brows.gif

Currently take a coursework (Master) . Never done a research when still undergraduate (only done final project)

Thanks nod.gif

This post has been edited by Irzani: Dec 22 2010, 09:05 PM
fluene
post Dec 23 2010, 07:37 AM

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QUOTE(e-fatty @ Dec 21 2010, 12:26 PM)
you did your doctorate just to brag? Wow now that's sheer determination...
*
'
In my field (I'm in R&D), people won't take what you say unless you have a PhD. It is like...

A : Fluene thinks it will work this way
B : Oh, she is not a PhD. What does she know?

Get what I mean?
migai
post Dec 24 2010, 04:15 PM

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Im bachelor degree holder, Im working with a private college. before I join this college I also got 2 other jobs with a relatively same salary. but I chose academic line because I love teaching and doing research.

a bit fact; there are 14ooo PhD holders and 1426 Prof. in Malaysia. of course not an absolute number.

if the reason of further study in PhD is solely on passionate for finding the truth, just go for researches (we got several research centers in Malaysia) where there are longer time limit for you to spend.
but another reason to further PhD, there is limitation on budget to do a research. though Im working in a college with a good equiptment, still, I cannot do any research cause Im not a master or a PhD holder, thus no grant given to me.
aliciaw
post Jan 18 2011, 11:02 PM

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Actually, I want a PhD because

a) I want to end up doing both pure and applied research.
b) I want to take my findings and build something practical from it that will affect my target population.
c) i want to come back and slap the gahmen in their face for being so negligent about my target population.

and ultimately, i want my target population to gain from that, and carry these benefits throughout their lives.

but mostly, i dont mind research.
Luke1989
post Jan 19 2011, 02:29 PM

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I think for the social sciences and arts, if you do a PhD you would most likely be leaning towards academia once you complete your PhD.

For fields that are more applied such as chemistry and all disciplines of engineering, a PhD also opens doors for research careers in various industries.

Also, to do a PhD I don't think its as simple as just choosing a broad field to do your PhD in. I really believe that you should have strong interest in a specific academic field. This is something which you really only gain exposure to once you're close to completing your bachelors/masters.
acu_hacker
post Feb 7 2011, 08:43 PM

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do engineer need PhD??
expressive87
post Feb 7 2011, 08:52 PM

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QUOTE(acu_hacker @ Feb 7 2011, 08:43 PM)
do engineer need PhD??
*
if the specialization is needed then need to take phd...
fakanetic
post Feb 7 2011, 10:09 PM

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i do it for the parent
their sparkling smile worth millions!
Robin Hood
post Feb 11 2011, 01:04 AM

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QUOTE(acu_hacker @ Feb 7 2011, 08:43 PM)
do engineer need PhD??
*
if u want to become prof. then yes
ohnowhyme
post Feb 14 2011, 02:59 PM

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but regular enginner typically do not require PhD....
SevenTwentyOne
post Feb 15 2011, 07:37 AM

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Only one of which I could think of; Passion in learning and sharing.
fakanetic
post Feb 16 2011, 03:10 PM

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passion in understanding the problem,identify the limitation and provide a solution.

damn i hate serious talk.
mikaperfumes
post Feb 16 2011, 03:18 PM

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Dear Migai,

Thanks for your fact about number of PHD holders and Profs. Looks like our country need more to catalyst the development and R&D.
HappyA_Q
post Feb 16 2011, 05:34 PM

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What is the continuous study from MBA towards phD? There is phD BA right? Possible to become lecturer?
SevenTwentyOne
post Feb 17 2011, 02:47 AM

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PhD is a testament of self actualisation man. Refer to PhDschool's discussion on that started by me. ^^
LuciferAmadeus
post Feb 17 2011, 02:27 PM

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QUOTE(HappyA_Q @ Feb 16 2011, 05:34 PM)
What is the continuous study from MBA towards phD? There is phD BA right? Possible to become lecturer?
*
If your Master is very good (maybe CGPA more than 3.5) then your supervisor may recommends that your Master be upgraded to PhD (only attainable through research). But of course, have to do a little extra work.

PhD in Business exists, where you will be researching business theories, and your qualification is best suited for academic profession. Master is all required in order to be a lecturer, but Universities will often require that you continue your study after a few years of service (usually they will fund your study, but you will be bound by contract).

You (or someone else) might want to know there is another Doctorate program for Business which is DBA (Doctors of Business Administration) where the research is much more application oriented and is suitable for those who wish to practice business.
SevenTwentyOne
post Feb 17 2011, 06:43 PM

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QUOTE(fakanetic @ Feb 16 2011, 03:10 PM)
passion in understanding the problem,identify the limitation and provide a solution.

damn i hate serious talk.
*
yeah, passion in:

-learning
-discovering
-inventing
-solving
and
-sharing

yeah mang, ppl here r so daymn srs~ icon_rolleyes.gif
bumblebeezz85
post Feb 20 2011, 03:04 PM

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QUOTE(aliciaw @ Jan 18 2011, 11:02 PM)
Actually, I want a PhD because

a) I want to end up doing both pure and applied research.
b) I want to take my findings and build something practical from it that will affect my target population.
c) i want to come back and slap the gahmen in their face for being so negligent about my target population.

and ultimately, i want my target population to gain from that, and carry these benefits throughout their lives.

but mostly, i dont mind research.
*
Then I dont want a PhD. I want to be your "target population".
malayantiger
post Feb 20 2011, 09:56 PM

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Back in 2002 I pursued PhD to (a) get out of my old job, also a chance to (b) get out of Malaysia and basically to jump start a © new career in academia. I achieved (a) and (b) but not ©! I did finally get a PhD at Cardiff University but my interest in academia waned. By then I got my PR, a reasonably decent job, my kids are in college and I am 'tired' and 'middle-aged'! I'm just happy and contented and the challenge (to better myself career-wise) don't excite me anymore. Good luck to anyone wanting a PhD, but for goodness sake start earlier, perhaps in your late 20's or early 30's. A PhD takes at least 3 years, often drags on to 4 or longer. Ask yourself if you have the stamina and tenacity to sustain the long and often lonely struggle! Lol. Don't forget the impact on your finances as well. I was pretty lucky, I guess, being able to get a job less than a month settling in Cardiff.
fakanetic
post Feb 20 2011, 10:17 PM

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QUOTE(malayantiger @ Feb 20 2011, 09:56 PM)
Back in 2002 I pursued PhD to (a) get out of my old job, also a chance to (b) get out of Malaysia and basically to jump start a © new career in academia. I achieved (a) and (b) but not ©! I did finally get a PhD at Cardiff University but my interest in academia waned. By then I got my PR, a reasonably decent job, my kids are in college and I am 'tired' and 'middle-aged'! I'm just happy and contented and the challenge (to better myself career-wise) don't excite me anymore. Good luck to anyone wanting a PhD, but for goodness sake start earlier, perhaps in your late 20's or early 30's. A PhD takes at least 3 years, often drags on to 4 or longer. Ask yourself if you have the stamina and tenacity to sustain the long and often lonely struggle! Lol. Don't forget the impact on your finances as well. I was pretty lucky, I guess, being able to get a job less than a month settling in Cardiff.
*
the journey of phd often about endurance. how's phd journey influence your way of life now?
i dont mind physical abuse,the mental abuse is a whole different level.

have to submit paper before 12 today...and i dont care....

bobby1988
post Feb 26 2011, 12:24 PM

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Reasons for me to get a PhD.

1. My own interest in research in engineering. I want to make a different. Thousands of engineer graduating each year everywhere. If I am doing the same thing as they are, who the hell am I ?

2. I got some interest of career in academia.

3. Family pressure. It is not that my parents force me to go for PhD. It is just that all all my siblings are professional, barrister, medical doctor and lecturer.

Just started my part time Phd study in UNMC. It is tough, but I like.
HappyA_Q
post Mar 7 2011, 04:48 PM

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QUOTE(khinfai @ Feb 26 2011, 12:24 PM)
Reasons for me to get a PhD.

1. My own interest in research in engineering. I want to make a different. Thousands of engineer graduating each year everywhere. If I am doing the same thing as they are, who the hell am I ?

2. I got some interest of career in academia.

3. Family pressure. It is not that my parents force me to go for PhD. It is just that all all my siblings are professional, barrister, medical doctor and lecturer.

Just started my part time Phd study in UNMC. It is tough, but I like.
*
Hey Khinfai,

Where is UNMC? U of Nottingham Malaysia is it?
And what major you are in?

I'm interested in doing PhD too after completing my MBA, but seems expensive. I'll see how it goes.
bobby1988
post Mar 8 2011, 09:44 PM

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QUOTE(HappyA_Q @ Mar 7 2011, 04:48 PM)
Hey Khinfai,

Where is UNMC? U of Nottingham Malaysia is it?
And what major you are in?

I'm interested in doing PhD too after completing my MBA, but seems expensive. I'll see how it goes.
*
Yup, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus. I am majoring in Mechanical Engineering. My PhD research is in more in advanced material, quantum electronics, MEMS/NEMS etc. Around these areas cause i am still very new to this study.

The fees is high, as an alumnus, I only get 10% discount from RM 31,000 per annum. Then I am doing part time study, another 50% done, so roughly is around Rm14,000.00 but it will last around 4 to 6 years.
tthyoo
post Mar 9 2011, 03:14 PM

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I do agree those that aim for PhD is not for money. Those that are aiming for high salary and great benefits should be taking MBA.

I'm currently completing my master soon and plan to take PhD in the future. Anyone has recommendation on which uni is good biomedical science?

Any scholarship can be applied?
rug
post Mar 10 2011, 11:56 AM

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QUOTE(tthyoo @ Mar 9 2011, 03:14 PM)
I do agree those that aim for PhD is not for money. Those that are aiming for high salary and great benefits should be taking MBA.

I'm currently completing my master soon and plan to take PhD in the future. Anyone has recommendation on which uni is good biomedical science?

Any scholarship can be applied?
*
If you are planning to do phd in one of the research university in Malaysia, there are few scholarships you can apply such as mybrain, NSF, khazanah scholarship (just open for application recently) and you can apply the scholarship offered by the university itself.

It is easy to get sponsorship nowadays compared to older days.

Hope can help you.
Sweet_Candy
post Mar 16 2011, 04:57 AM

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QUOTE(migai @ Dec 24 2010, 08:15 AM)
Im bachelor degree holder, Im working with a private college. before I join this college I also got 2 other jobs with a relatively same salary. but I chose academic line because I love teaching and doing research.

a bit fact; there are 14ooo PhD holders and 1426 Prof. in Malaysia. of course not an absolute number.

if the reason of further study in PhD is solely on passionate for finding the truth, just go for researches (we got several research centers in Malaysia)  where there are longer time limit for you to spend.
but another reason to further PhD, there is limitation on budget to do a research. though Im working in a college with a good equiptment, still, I cannot do any research cause Im not a master or a PhD holder, thus no grant given to me.
*
Sth to share, I am a 2nd year phd student in UK and one of my phd colleague over here is an assist. professor (i.e Prof. Madya) in the Malaysia. Am appalled that you don't need to have a phd to become a professor/ assistant prof in Malaysia.
fakanetic
post Mar 20 2011, 03:03 AM

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QUOTE(Sweet_Candy @ Mar 16 2011, 04:57 AM)
Sth to share, I am a 2nd year phd student in UK and one of my phd colleague over here is an assist. professor (i.e Prof. Madya) in the Malaysia. Am appalled that you don't need to have a phd to become a professor/ assistant prof in Malaysia.
*
yup, that is how it is here
iera10
post Mar 20 2011, 08:18 AM

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hye everyone..i'm newbie here

currently i'm in final semester in my studies and my supervisor have offer doing phd but i'm interested joining industry.

can u help me please. give idea and advice, pro n cons.

tq
malayantiger
post Mar 20 2011, 08:40 AM

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QUOTE(fakanetic @ Feb 20 2011, 10:17 PM)
the journey of phd often about endurance. how's phd journey influence your way of life now?
i dont mind physical abuse,the mental abuse is a whole different level.

have to submit paper before 12 today...and i dont care....
*
the truth is the PhD is physically and mentally draining, especially the final two years. I kept having to write and rewrite my thesis. Viva was a disaster as the external examiner challenged my analysis and although I defended my analysis, he was adamant. The internal examiner protested to no avail. The result was I had to re-do my analysis using a different technique (which he recommended). I entered into a state of depression and nearly had a breakdown, 8 months after viva, I resubmitted the thesis with the recommended corrections and got through. The whole process was humbling, I fell down to earth....never recovered!
Irzani
post Mar 20 2011, 08:53 AM

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QUOTE(malayantiger @ Mar 20 2011, 08:40 AM)
the truth is the PhD is physically and mentally draining, especially the final two years. I kept having to write and rewrite my thesis. Viva was a disaster as the external examiner challenged my analysis and although I defended my analysis, he was adamant. The internal examiner protested to no avail. The result was I had to re-do my analysis using a different technique (which he recommended). I entered into a state of depression and nearly had a breakdown, 8 months after viva, I resubmitted the thesis with the recommended corrections and got through. The whole process was humbling, I fell down to earth....never recovered!
*
Even though you have been tortured enough, please be mercy to other younger generation ... notworthy.gif
bafukie
post Mar 29 2011, 05:28 PM

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interesting to see diff ppl in diff line with diff experience. I believe that phd will be another level of education for most of us ( like the jump from pre U tp U). I am going to start my long road of getting a masters first then ultimately phd (god willing) this coming july.

[PF] T.J.
post Mar 30 2011, 01:29 AM

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QUOTE(bafukie @ Mar 29 2011, 05:28 PM)
interesting to see diff ppl in diff line with diff experience. I believe that phd will be another level of education for most of us ( like the jump from pre U tp U). I am going to start my long road of getting a masters first then ultimately phd (god willing) this coming july.
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All the best thumbup.gif
12H4M
post Apr 3 2011, 12:44 PM

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"PhD is a license to teach"...this applies when you're in the academia world...
highwind85
post Apr 5 2011, 03:38 PM

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QUOTE(Sweet_Candy @ Mar 16 2011, 04:57 AM)
Sth to share, I am a 2nd year phd student in UK and one of my phd colleague over here is an assist. professor (i.e Prof. Madya) in the Malaysia. Am appalled that you don't need to have a phd to become a professor/ assistant prof in Malaysia.
*
Assistant professor is assistant professor...prof madya is Associate Professor...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_academic_ranks
Irzani
post Apr 6 2011, 03:44 AM

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QUOTE(highwind85 @ Apr 5 2011, 03:38 PM)
Assistant professor is assistant professor...prof madya is Associate Professor...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_academic_ranks
*
Thanks for the links ... didn't know that Profesor Emeritus (usually retired professors) ... sweat.gif
SUSgtasaboss
post Apr 9 2011, 03:36 PM

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if im getting a phd im getting it for the recognition. so itll be easier for me to publish scientific and philosophical articles in science magazines
engrfeez
post Apr 11 2011, 02:37 PM

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can someone share where is the best location to pursue study in Phd at oversea especially in engineering management?

what is the step to further there? i have qualification from local university and now looking for next step to gain the knowledge at oversea.

hope someone mind to share.


Added on April 11, 2011, 2:42 pm
QUOTE(malayantiger @ Mar 20 2011, 08:40 AM)
the truth is the PhD is physically and mentally draining, especially the final two years. I kept having to write and rewrite my thesis. Viva was a disaster as the external examiner challenged my analysis and although I defended my analysis, he was adamant. The internal examiner protested to no avail. The result was I had to re-do my analysis using a different technique (which he recommended). I entered into a state of depression and nearly had a breakdown, 8 months after viva, I resubmitted the thesis with the recommended corrections and got through. The whole process was humbling, I fell down to earth....never recovered!
*
wow looked likes very tough experience here, sad to hear that but i just wondering if to become a phd, someone should be very strong knowledge in their expertise...if they can challenge your expertise it mean you not competent enough.. brows.gif

This post has been edited by engrfeez: Apr 11 2011, 02:42 PM
malayantiger
post Apr 15 2011, 01:47 AM

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QUOTE(12H4M @ Apr 3 2011, 12:44 PM)
"PhD is a license to teach"...this applies when you're in the academia world...
*
Teaching offers little rewards. PhD is a license to publish credible papers. The more you publish in key journals, the better your reputation and prestige. That's why where you got your PhD is important. Also the subject matter. Otherwise your PhD is just a piece of junk even toilet paper is worth more. At least you can wipe your backside with it!


Added on April 15, 2011, 2:19 am
QUOTE(engrfeez @ Apr 11 2011, 02:37 PM)
can someone share where is the best location to pursue study in Phd at oversea especially in engineering management?

what is the step to further there? i have qualification from local university and now  looking for next step to gain the knowledge at oversea.

hope someone mind to share.


Added on April 11, 2011, 2:42 pm

wow looked likes very tough experience here, sad to hear that but i just wondering if to become a phd, someone should be very strong knowledge in their expertise...if they can challenge your expertise it mean you not competent enough.. brows.gif
*
The key to getting to a good university is to write a good PhD proposal. Usually about 1000 - 2000 words. There are many good websites that can help you. A visit to Mabecs will be beneficial especially if you are planning to pursue PhD in Britain. They can offer valuable guidelines. The importance of a good proposal cannot be understated. You must aim to attract the best supervisors. Remember, your supervisor will later act as your future reference, not to mention you will also want to colloborate with him/her for future research and papers. Hence it helps to do some research on your potential supervisors. Understand what their interests are and read some of their papers. Then 'tailor-make' you proposal to match their broad interests. In the UK, and I am sure its the same in most good research based universities, publishing papers in quality journals are key indicators for higher rankings. Its really a cut throat business in academic world. There is a saying 'publish or die'.Thus, the supervisor is also keen to attract 'quality' students' whom they can do joint research with in view of future publications. Again if you are planning to study in UK, look out at the minimum the 'Russell Group' universities. These are the cream of British uni's as they get the most funding.

Of course, if all you want is a PhD and then 'balik kampung' to Malaysia merely to to teach, then any uni or supervisor will do. Most sponsored malaysians seems to follow the easy route. But I recon it is a waste of money and talent. Do your homework and get to the very best uni and supervisor you can get!

This post has been edited by malayantiger: Apr 15 2011, 02:19 AM
corad
post Apr 15 2011, 09:02 AM

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studying for anything should be for a sole pursuit, to be the best at it.

A PhD is just a stamp of approval. Some may slave over getting one, others may just be awarded an honorary title. You don't have to be a genius to get one.

My personal opinion is that anyone going for a PhD either has an undying interest for the subject, or he/she just has no idea what to do after the last degree !


Sasa88
post Apr 15 2011, 03:35 PM

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If I want to get rich, I prefer doing a business rather than working.
Phd is not easy to achieve. I will go for it if I have the money and time.
Angela Lee
post Apr 24 2011, 02:15 AM

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I started PhD for about 3 months but then found that it wasn't for me so I quited.

I had two main reasons to start my PhD.

1. I found a very good supervisor who was on the same page as me. He was also well known in his field so I knew I could produce some great works!

2. To be a university lecturer

But I found doing research quite boring so finally I couldn't motivate myself anymore and then changed my career totally.

It was disappointing but I think I made a good choice smile.gif


Added on April 24, 2011, 2:16 am
QUOTE(Sasa88 @ Apr 15 2011, 02:35 PM)
If I want to get rich, I prefer doing a business rather than working.
Phd is not easy to achieve. I will go for it if I have the money and time.
*
I agree.


Added on April 24, 2011, 2:20 am
QUOTE(tthyoo @ Mar 9 2011, 02:14 PM)
I do agree those that aim for PhD is not for money. Those that are aiming for high salary and great benefits should be taking MBA.

I'm currently completing my master soon and plan to take PhD in the future. Anyone has recommendation on which uni is good biomedical science?

Any scholarship can be applied?
*
I agree.

I can recommend you a school... Are you in Malaysia?


This post has been edited by Angela Lee: Apr 24 2011, 02:20 AM
fakanetic
post Jun 6 2011, 10:56 PM

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QUOTE(engrfeez @ Apr 11 2011, 02:37 PM)
can someone share where is the best location to pursue study in Phd at oversea especially in engineering management?

what is the step to further there? i have qualification from local university and now  looking for next step to gain the knowledge at oversea.

hope someone mind to share.


Added on April 11, 2011, 2:42 pm

wow looked likes very tough experience here, sad to hear that but i just wondering if to become a phd, someone should be very strong knowledge in their expertise...if they can challenge your expertise it mean you not competent enough.. brows.gif
*
anyone could enroll for phd, can you finish it? hahaha

QUOTE(malayantiger @ Apr 15 2011, 01:47 AM)
Teaching offers little rewards. PhD is a license to publish credible papers. The more you publish in key journals, the better your reputation and prestige. That's why where you got your PhD is important. Also the subject matter. Otherwise your PhD is just a piece of junk even toilet paper is worth more. At least you can wipe your backside with it!


Added on April 15, 2011, 2:19 am

The key to getting to a good university is to write a good PhD proposal. Usually about 1000 - 2000 words. There are many good websites that can help you. A visit to Mabecs will be beneficial especially if you are planning to pursue PhD in Britain. They can offer valuable guidelines. The importance of a good proposal cannot be understated. You must aim to attract the best supervisors. Remember, your supervisor will later act as your future reference, not to mention you will also want to colloborate with him/her for future research and papers. Hence it helps to do some research on your potential supervisors. Understand what their interests are and read some of their papers. Then 'tailor-make' you proposal to match their broad interests. In the UK, and I am sure its the same in most good research based universities, publishing papers in quality journals are key indicators for higher rankings. Its really a cut throat business in academic world. There is a saying 'publish or die'.Thus, the supervisor is also keen to attract 'quality' students' whom they can do joint research with in view of future publications. Again if you are planning to study in UK, look out at the minimum the 'Russell Group' universities. These are the cream of British uni's as they get the most funding.

Of course, if all you want is a PhD and then 'balik kampung' to Malaysia merely to to teach, then any uni or supervisor will do. Most sponsored malaysians seems to follow the easy route. But I recon it is a waste of money and talent. Do your homework and get to the very best uni and supervisor you can get!
*
I do understand the need for the best supervisor in the field. You find the best team/group in the field and knock them dead. Since i'm doing it locally, we are the underdog. The world doesn't care about malaysia, so we are slowly doing collaboration and connect. Academia is as political as politic. Most of the time, it is pro european. How on earth could a journal be accepted less then a month?. A lot more stories to tell tho.

Here in malaysia, the environment is different. We dont have a good atmosphere for research, research topic are too broad between each student. Everyone is doing their own thing(not related with yours) and running like headless chicken.

In research world, we compete(research are evaluated) with the world. Its either sink or swim, lambat tinggal!.

thank you sir. point taken.

nobodybutyou
post Jun 19 2011, 08:34 PM

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To get the respect, it's not because of your Dr. title for life, but the knowledges, skills you have obtained and the efforts that you have put in. There are rare PhD.
ExtremeSeller2012
post Jul 9 2011, 11:39 PM

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guys, anyone knows which uni offering DBA course in malaysia ? thanks
chunlim
post Jul 14 2011, 01:48 PM

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Sorry because this deviates a little from the main topic.

What is the difference between a Masters of Science Engineering holder (completed in 2 years) with a Degree holder with 2 years job experience in terms of job prospect, salary, ....etc?

How would the employers view you as a MSc holder and as a Degree holder? (assuming Degree holder have 2 years job experience)

Is it advisable to go for Phd upon completion of Masters? Or is it better to work first?
AhGuan
post Jul 14 2011, 03:11 PM

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QUOTE(chunlim @ Jul 14 2011, 01:48 PM)
Sorry because this deviates a little from the main topic.

What is the difference between a Masters of Science Engineering holder (completed in 2 years) with a Degree holder with 2 years job experience in terms of job prospect, salary, ....etc?

How would the employers view you as a MSc holder and as a Degree holder? (assuming Degree holder have 2 years job experience)

Is it advisable to go for Phd upon completion of Masters? Or is it better to work first?
*
For me, I would prefer to work first after getting my BSc. for few years to gain more technical experience, and then further my MSc. and then, further my PhD straight away if finnancial situation permitted
zahirani
post Jul 15 2011, 04:46 PM

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QUOTE(corad @ Apr 15 2011, 09:02 AM)
studying for anything should be for a sole pursuit, to be the best at it.

A PhD is just a stamp of approval. Some may slave over getting one, others may just be awarded an honorary title. You don't have to be a genius to get one.

My personal opinion is that anyone going for a PhD either has an undying interest for the subject, or he/she just has no idea what to do after the last degree !
*
i have no idea what to do after last degree. then go for M.Sc.
i even worked for Intel for 1 year after completed my M.Sc study but at Intel i keep doing repeating job so got bored. so decided to return to further study.

and heck i still don't have any idea what I'm going to do after i finished my current study...

OMG!
post Jul 15 2011, 10:21 PM

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Would like to know how many of you who get first class degree directly jump to do Phd without a master?

What is actually the minimum requirements ofdegree CGPA of doing a master ?
BatuItu
post Jul 23 2011, 10:05 AM

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QUOTE(Augus7 @ May 18 2010, 02:28 PM)
u get phd to lose your hair to look like vin petrol
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Im pefering The Rock


Added on July 23, 2011, 10:18 am
QUOTE(OMG! @ Jul 15 2011, 10:21 PM)
Would like to know how many of you who get first class degree directly jump to do Phd without a master?

What is actually the minimum requirements ofdegree  CGPA of doing a master ?
*
I don think any of the local private/government Uni. are offering direct PhD(im not sure, correct me if i wrong).
But NUS/NTU do offering second upperclass or above bachelor holder to apply for direct PhD.
I know some friends with 1st class from Malaysia Uni. accepted for direct PhD at NUS.

This post has been edited by BatuItu: Jul 23 2011, 10:46 AM
[PF] T.J.
post Jul 23 2011, 03:50 PM

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QUOTE(OMG! @ Jul 15 2011, 10:21 PM)
Would like to know how many of you who get first class degree directly jump to do Phd without a master?

What is actually the minimum requirements ofdegree  CGPA of doing a master ?
*
I'm doing phD now without Masters hehe laugh.gif
Usually there's no real CGPA requirements for Masters over here (but not too low la of course, I've seen those doing Masters with CGPA 2.8), provided that you can find a supervisor that's willing to take you in nod.gif

This post has been edited by [PF] T.J.: Jul 23 2011, 03:51 PM
OMG!
post Jul 27 2011, 03:45 PM

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The supervisor must be willing to take you in? Depend on the supervisors entirely? Well, i do believe we will have to show our good characters to the supervisor for they to take you in?


Added on July 27, 2011, 3:47 pm
QUOTE(PF T.J. @ Jul 23 2011, 03:50 PM)
I'm doing phD now without Masters hehe  laugh.gif
Usually there's no real CGPA requirements for Masters over here (but not too low la of course, I've seen those doing Masters with CGPA 2.8), provided that you can find a supervisor that's willing to take you in nod.gif
*
You are too good to secure the UM brighspark scholarships rclxms.gif
How is your life doing Phd at UM? How much the allowances allocated per month?

This post has been edited by OMG!: Jul 27 2011, 03:47 PM
[PF] T.J.
post Jul 27 2011, 06:44 PM

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QUOTE(OMG! @ Jul 27 2011, 03:45 PM)
The supervisor must be willing to take you in? Depend on the supervisors entirely? Well, i do believe we will have to show our good characters to the supervisor for they to take you in?


Added on July 27, 2011, 3:47 pm
You are too good to secure the UM brighspark scholarships  rclxms.gif
How is your life doing Phd at UM? How much the allowances allocated per month?
*
Yeah, it depends on the supervisors nod.gif
Though applying for scholarships may be a bit tougher; yet still possible with supervisor's recommendation nod.gif
Most supervisor would know that academic results ain't everything, the most important thing would still be on the EQ and dedication of the candidate smile.gif

Eh? Do I know you? laugh.gif
Sorry, old man here sweat.gif
gahpadu
post Jul 27 2011, 11:09 PM

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QUOTE(BatuItu @ Jul 23 2011, 10:05 AM)
Im pefering The Rock


Added on July 23, 2011, 10:18 am

I don think any of the local private/government Uni. are offering direct PhD(im not sure, correct me if i wrong).
But NUS/NTU do offering second upperclass or above bachelor holder to apply for direct PhD.
I know some friends with 1st class from Malaysia Uni. accepted for direct PhD at NUS.
*
I know one girl got offer to do Phd in UPM , she graduated with 3.9.

Now she's working as a tutor and univ will sent her to oversea to do PhD

berdorki
post Sep 4 2011, 02:22 PM

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Hi all, I would really appreciate any advice here.

Recently I've been offered 2 scholarships; one is to study Masters in Taiwan, the other is to do PhD in USM.

For Masters, I would be bonded to work with the company sponsoring me for 4 years. Its a Taiwanese company, and I'll be working in the Malaysian branch. Allowance is given. It's a mixed mode programme, where I'll be undertaking classes as well as research. smile.gif

I am really unsure which path to take at the moment. If I'm not particularly inclined to become a lecturer in the future, PhD is not necessary, right?

Also, I am worried about the job prospects upon graduating as a PhD. sad.gif

Oh yeah...the field I'll be doing is Food Tech. smile.gif

Any comments would be deeply appreciated!
cheahcw2003
post Dec 6 2011, 05:52 AM

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QUOTE(TheWhacker @ Jun 14 2010, 08:38 PM)
PhDs for me i think its more like an achievement in life. Its something you can feel very proud off when you retire and start to look back on what you have done with your life.

Tom, d*** and Harry has Degrees on the street, you can't say the same for PhDs.
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rclxms.gif Good
wanzulfikri
post Dec 6 2011, 10:44 AM

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Well, if I am going to get PhD, I will probably get it for the sake of knowledge.
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post Jan 4 2012, 02:06 PM

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Getting a Phd also means you know what to do in that particular field
sinbei
post Mar 31 2012, 02:03 AM

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Hi fellas,

i have questions to all respective Dr. out there.

if
1) any of u guys currently on Industrial PHD Programme? or received phd from industrial programme

if yes,
2) please recommend one local university with some brief comparison of pros n cons with other uni..
3) is allowance provided for Industrial PHD prog candidate? (pocket allowance)
4) hows the monitoring/evaluating system works through out the programme , example: presentation for every semester?

if no,
- feel free to have your opinions here.

thanks

smile.gif
Human Nature
post Mar 31 2012, 02:35 AM

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QUOTE(sinbei @ Mar 31 2012, 02:03 AM)
Hi fellas,

i have questions to all respective Dr. out there.

if
1) any of u guys currently on Industrial PHD Programme? or received phd from industrial programme

if yes,
2) please recommend one local university with some brief comparison of pros n cons with other uni..
3) is allowance provided for Industrial PHD prog candidate? (pocket allowance)
4) hows the monitoring/evaluating system works through out the programme , example: presentation for every semester?

if no,
- feel free to have your opinions here.

thanks

smile.gif
*
i may be wrong but there is no allowance since you are considered working with your company and getting salary. it is likely that you will be required to submit your progress report and at the same time monitoring will be done by both supervisors. different universities will have their own system.
etsy3699
post May 25 2012, 05:19 PM

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QUOTE(berdorki @ Sep 4 2011, 02:22 PM)
Hi all, I would really appreciate any advice here.

Recently I've been offered 2 scholarships; one is to study Masters in Taiwan, the other is to do PhD in USM.

For Masters, I would be bonded to work with the company sponsoring me for 4 years. Its a Taiwanese company, and I'll be working in the Malaysian branch. Allowance is given. It's a mixed mode programme, where I'll be undertaking classes as well as research. smile.gif

I am really unsure which path to take at the moment. If I'm not particularly inclined to become a lecturer in the future, PhD is not necessary, right?

Also, I am worried about the job prospects upon graduating as a PhD. sad.gif

Oh yeah...the field I'll be doing is Food Tech. smile.gif

Any comments would be deeply appreciated!
*
This is like 8 months ago, so wondering what did you choose?

Either one would be great, I am presuming you already had a Degree at the time of posting. If you are not inclined to be a lecturer, then I bet you should be in Taiwan now and a guarantee of a 'bond', which is like guaranteed job waiting for you upon graduation, good deal!
futuredarthvader
post Jun 6 2012, 02:41 AM

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Mind asking if anyone here has a Masters/PhD in Hospitality/Tourism/Hotel management? I think Taylor's do offer such course but I want to know if there are other Uni's offering them. According to google, uitm offers Masters of Science in Hotel Management, so if I do obtaine such Masters, what PhD then should pursue? Thanks and please advice smile.gif
sin2010
post Dec 3 2012, 09:20 AM

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QUOTE(Angela Lee @ Apr 24 2011, 02:15 AM)
I started PhD for about 3 months but then found that it wasn't for me so I quited.

I had two main reasons to start my PhD.

1.  I found a very good supervisor who was on the same page as me. He was also well known in his field so I knew I could produce some great works!

2.  To be a university lecturer

But I found doing research quite boring so finally I couldn't motivate myself anymore and then changed my career totally.

It was disappointing but I think I made a good choice smile.gif
i am having the same situation like u, but i still struggling in it... blush.gif
so, what you doing now??


Added on December 3, 2012, 9:30 am
QUOTE(Sweet_Candy @ Mar 16 2011, 04:57 AM)
Sth to share, I am a 2nd year phd student in UK and one of my phd colleague over here is an assist. professor (i.e Prof. Madya) in the Malaysia. Am appalled that you don't need to have a phd to become a professor/ assistant prof in Malaysia.
*
i am not sure about IPTS, but in IPTA from recent years, you need a PHD to be a lecturer.

This post has been edited by sin2010: Dec 3 2012, 09:30 AM
mtxx
post Dec 17 2012, 11:25 PM

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QUOTE(malayantiger @ Mar 20 2011, 08:40 AM)
the truth is the PhD is physically and mentally draining, especially the final two years. I kept having to write and rewrite my thesis. Viva was a disaster as the external examiner challenged my analysis and although I defended my analysis, he was adamant. The internal examiner protested to no avail. The result was I had to re-do my analysis using a different technique (which he recommended). I entered into a state of depression and nearly had a breakdown, 8 months after viva, I resubmitted the thesis with the recommended corrections and got through. The whole process was humbling, I fell down to earth....never recovered!
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Omg such a cruel external examiner?

May I know what field your doing? From which uni?

malayantiger
post Dec 18 2012, 04:45 AM

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QUOTE(mtxx @ Dec 17 2012, 11:25 PM)
Omg such a cruel external examiner?

May I know what field your doing? From which uni?
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Wow, such an old thread, still some interest! I did Organizational Behaviour (HRM) at Cardiff Uni. My external examiner was from East Anglia. Even today I think he is just an egoistic shiat of a prof. Hopes he burns in hell for wasting one year of my life and the mental scar he left me.

My suggestion if you are ever thinking of PhD is to choose your supervisor wisely. Good luck! smile.gif
mtxx
post Dec 18 2012, 07:13 AM

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QUOTE(malayantiger @ Dec 18 2012, 04:45 AM)
Wow, such an old thread, still some interest! I did Organizational Behaviour (HRM) at Cardiff Uni. My external examiner was from East Anglia. Even today I think he is just an egoistic shiat of a prof. Hopes he burns in hell for wasting one year of my life and the mental scar he left me.

My suggestion if you are ever thinking of PhD is to choose your supervisor wisely. Good luck! smile.gif
*
I'm thinking of doing phd. So I read this thread from page 1. And saw your sad story. I'm so glad you replied. Thanks.

Yup supervisor is very important. Thanks for the advice.
malayantiger
post Dec 18 2012, 02:03 PM

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QUOTE(mtxx @ Dec 18 2012, 07:13 AM)
I'm thinking of doing phd. So I read this thread from page 1. And saw your sad story. I'm so glad you replied. Thanks.

Yup supervisor is very important. Thanks for the advice.
*
I wouldn't say 'sad'. Traumatic probably especially when I am non sponsored and just spent GBP25k. And my supervisor(s), you get one main and two 'advisors' at Cardiff gave the all clear! What's you interest and where are you planning your phd? Local or abroard? Sponsored?
ron4
post Dec 18 2012, 08:52 PM

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QUOTE(Sweet_Candy @ Mar 16 2011, 04:57 AM)
Sth to share, I am a 2nd year phd student in UK and one of my phd colleague over here is an assist. professor (i.e Prof. Madya) in the Malaysia. Am appalled that you don't need to have a phd to become a professor/ assistant prof in Malaysia.
*
Assistant Professor is not Prof Madya, Asst Prof is equivalent to Senior Lecturer. In Malaysia Associate Professor is called Prof Madya

The rank is like this

Professor
Associate Prof
Assistant Prof / Senior Lecturer
Lecturer
Senior Tutor
Tutor

Currently in Malaysia most of the IPTA's need Phd to become a lecturer (except Uitm).

This post has been edited by ron4: Dec 18 2012, 08:54 PM
Critical_Fallacy
post Dec 19 2012, 09:03 AM

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QUOTE(mtxx @ Dec 18 2012, 07:13 AM)
I'm thinking of doing phd.

Yup supervisor is very important.
So, have you found that compelling reason to do PhD? Bear in mind that the Doctorate is generally regarded as the highest academic degree that requires great patience and mental ability, especially technical and mathematical ability.

Sometimes your supervisor will request you to do some project of his/her interest, and most likely you'll say “Yes”. After one semester, he/she might ask you to change another topic of research because he/she cannot get the grant from MOSTI or RUGS. Happy? I don't think so. This is usually due to poor planning and other factors as well.
jonjie
post Dec 20 2012, 04:53 PM

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I'm in the midst of struggling with my proposal.

The reason why I want to do a PhD is because I'm in the education line and the only way to go up is to complete a PhD.
Critical_Fallacy
post Dec 20 2012, 05:29 PM

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QUOTE(jonjie @ Dec 20 2012, 04:53 PM)
I'm in the midst of struggling with my proposal.

The reason why I want to do a PhD is because I'm in the education line and the only way to go up is to complete a PhD.
I am concerned about what happens to you and your proposal. What kinds of things are bothering you?

Tell us more about your:

(1) Field of research - motivation
(2) Problem statement - a contradiction, question, complaint, or need
(3) Performance Criteria - requirements that any proposed solution to the problem must fulfill
(4) Prior research - what has been done to address the problem and achieve similar objectives in the past
(5) Objectives - the baseline by which the success or failure of the task will be evaluated
(6) Scope of Work - the scope in terms of sub-engineering disciplines or technical areas of a research


jonjie
post Dec 20 2012, 06:12 PM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Dec 20 2012, 05:29 PM)
I am concerned about what happens to you and your proposal. What kinds of things are bothering you?

Tell us more about your:

(1) Field of research - motivation
(2) Problem statement - a contradiction, question, complaint, or need
(3) Performance Criteria - requirements that any proposed solution to the problem must fulfill
(4) Prior research -  what has been done to address the problem and achieve similar objectives in the past
(5) Objectives - the baseline by which the success or failure of the task will be evaluated
(6) Scope of Work - the scope in terms of sub-engineering disciplines or technical areas of a research
*
Hey, thanks for your comment. I've submitted my proposal twice but was asked to rewrite again. I approached this Japanese lecturer in a well-known university in Aus to be my supervisor. She requested for my cv and my proposal. she came back with comments and even extra reference for me to read hoping that I'll get back to her in my third attempt.

I believe my topic is not niche enough to be considered for a PhD or perhaps not within the expertise of the supervisor or even the school. Any tips on how to come up with a topic for research? How to get that 'right' topic?
Critical_Fallacy
post Dec 20 2012, 07:16 PM

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QUOTE(jonjie @ Dec 20 2012, 06:12 PM)
Hey, thanks for your comment. I've submitted my proposal twice but was asked to rewrite again. I approached this Japanese lecturer in a well-known university in Aus to be my supervisor. She requested for my cv and my proposal. she came back with comments and even extra reference for me to read hoping that I'll get back to her in my third attempt.

I believe my topic is not niche enough to be considered for a PhD or perhaps not within the expertise of the supervisor or even the school. Any tips on how to come up with a topic for research? How to get that 'right' topic?
Since your feedback is very limited, I can only tell you the sources of research ideas are virtually endless. They range from casual observation to systematic research. However, they can be seen as falling into three broad categories: experience, theory, and applied issues.

Experience: Your everyday experience and observations of what goes on around you is a rich source of research ideas. Some of these observations may be unsystematic and informal. For example, after reading a newspaper article about a gun rampage leaving 28 dead, including 20 schoolchildren, you may begin to wonder how parents and schoolteachers who have to live with the fear of mass killing every day cope.

Theory: Theories can lead to the development of research questions in two ways. First, a theory allows you to predict the behavior expected under new combinations of variables. The second way that theory can generate research ideas arises when two or more alternative theories account for the same initial observations. This situation may provide a fascinating opportunity to pit the different interpretations against one another.

Applied Issues: Often research ideas arise from the need to solve practical problems. Applied research is problem oriented whereas basic research is aimed toward building basic knowledge about phenomena. You might design an applied research study to develop interventions to help people cope with mass killing. Of course, before you can design any intervention, you must first know something about how people react to mass killing.
RazerDeathAdder
post Dec 21 2012, 10:28 AM

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Get PHD to get Highest Achievement of the Life....Its true..
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post Dec 21 2012, 10:30 AM

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foreveralone perhaps?
cheahcw2003
post Dec 21 2012, 11:14 AM

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UPM offers a Dual Phd/ Joint Phd Degree with foreign univesities as follows:
1) UPM-Uni of Nottingham
2) UPM-Uni of Sheffield
3) UPM - Newcastle Uni Australia
4) UPM - Uni of South Queensland.

One thesis 2 supervisors, and 2 Phd Degree at the end of the study, not bad.

http;//sgs.upm.edu.my
kepalapening
post Dec 29 2012, 07:53 PM

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QUOTE(ron4 @ Dec 18 2012, 08:52 PM)
Currently in Malaysia most of the IPTA's need Phd to become a lecturer (except Uitm).
*
If I'm not mistaken, UiTM also put PhD as a requirement nowadays.


Added on December 29, 2012, 8:01 pm
QUOTE(mtxx @ Dec 18 2012, 07:13 AM)
Yup supervisor is very important. Thanks for the advice.
*
IMHO, yes the supervisor is important but the student himself/herself plays the most important role. An excellent PhD candidate will survived even though his/her supervisor sucks.

This post has been edited by kepalapening: Dec 29 2012, 08:03 PM
jonjie
post Jan 3 2013, 04:35 PM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Dec 20 2012, 07:16 PM)
Since your feedback is very limited, I can only tell you the sources of research ideas are virtually endless. They range from casual observation to systematic research. However, they can be seen as falling into three broad categories: experience, theory, and applied issues.

Experience: Your everyday experience and observations of what goes on around you is a rich source of research ideas. Some of these observations may be unsystematic and informal. For example, after reading a newspaper article about a gun rampage leaving 28 dead, including 20 schoolchildren, you may begin to wonder how parents and schoolteachers who have to live with the fear of mass killing every day cope.

Theory: Theories can lead to the development of research questions in two ways. First, a theory allows you to predict the behavior expected under new combinations of variables. The second way that theory can generate research ideas arises when two or more alternative theories account for the same initial observations. This situation may provide a fascinating opportunity to pit the different interpretations against one another.

Applied Issues: Often research ideas arise from the need to solve practical problems. Applied research is problem oriented whereas basic research is aimed toward building basic knowledge about phenomena. You might design an applied research study to develop interventions to help people cope with mass killing. Of course, before you can design any intervention, you must first know something about how people react to mass killing.
*
I think I can only blame myself at the moment for not able to find out what exactly interest me. No pressure for me, just a little bit impatient though. Guess I have to read more and hopefully able to find something that I really want to spend time writing and researching for the next few year.

Thanks for the kind input.

cheahcw2003
post Jan 13 2013, 12:56 PM

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For me the reason to get a Phd is self achievement, accomplishment. And has the rights to use Dr. XXX in my grave stone when i die.
Keke...
natsu_dragneel
post Feb 19 2013, 09:44 PM

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cause i dont want to work for the time being..i love school
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post Feb 19 2013, 10:48 PM

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Contribute to advancement of humankind(but imma in a state of considering imma walking down taht road or not. lol)
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post Feb 20 2013, 02:08 AM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Jan 13 2013, 12:56 PM)
For me the reason to get a Phd is self achievement, accomplishment. And has the rights to use Dr. XXX in my grave stone when i die.
Keke...
*
wow, people take up phd for the love of knowledge but you do it for the title. Wow, just wow.
Yodatan
post Feb 20 2013, 01:31 PM

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QUOTE(lopo90 @ Feb 20 2013, 02:08 AM)
wow, people take up phd for the love of knowledge but you do it for the title. Wow, just wow.
*
he is being sacarstic lah... i find a lot of phd holders and candidate tend to be very negative/self-depreciating, but the work you are doing on research is actually helping someone somewhere think about things differently. whether you are getting paid enough is another thing
cheahcw2003
post Feb 20 2013, 05:41 PM

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QUOTE(lopo90 @ Feb 20 2013, 02:08 AM)
wow, people take up phd for the love of knowledge but you do it for the title. Wow, just wow.
*
title and love of knowledge can come together.
otherwise, one can just pay 10K to get a Phd certificate,
if solely love of knowledge, one not neccessary to go thru the Phd path, can just finish reading all the books in the library.

This post has been edited by cheahcw2003: Feb 20 2013, 05:58 PM
lopo90
post Feb 20 2013, 07:45 PM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Feb 20 2013, 05:41 PM)
title and love of knowledge can come together.
otherwise, one can just pay 10K to get a Phd certificate,
if solely love of knowledge, one not neccessary to go thru the Phd path, can just finish reading all the books in the library.
*
Title is just a bonus. Something optional, that's all. Pay 10k to get a PhD cert? I guess it makes sense why these days so many rubbish thesis full of plagiarism is common.
cheahcw2003
post Feb 20 2013, 08:29 PM

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QUOTE(lopo90 @ Feb 20 2013, 07:45 PM)
Title is just a bonus. Something optional, that's all. Pay 10k to get a PhD cert? I guess it makes sense why these days so many rubbish thesis full of plagiarism is common.
*
the 10K cert one is no need to do thesis one. just pay then can attend the convocation in US already.
With the Turn it in software, no way to plagiarise...
Farmer_C
post Feb 26 2013, 03:58 PM

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I'm doing my PhD in Drug Discovery Biology simply because:

1. I love pursuing science and knowledge and want to have a better understanding of my field.

2. I dislike having to accept 'what something is' without understanding 'why something is'.

3. More career options and potentially better career progression (compared to if I just had a bachelor's degree).

4. Prestige. Yes prestige, but that's an added bonus.

5. I want to be a positive impact to society, science and healthcare.
SUSWintersuN
post Feb 26 2013, 04:01 PM

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Main reasons people get phD cos cant get a job. For courses which are not that useful in Malaysia like Biology, Sociology, Islamic studies, etc, it is very difficult to get a job and the only way for a job is to be a lecturer which required phd. When study phd some also will get alowances so that is the only path for them.
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post Feb 26 2013, 07:57 PM

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Do you prefer lecturers that have a lot of industry experience (but without Phd), compared to lecturers have Phd but zero industry experience.
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post Feb 26 2013, 11:13 PM

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PhD for the contribution to the whatsoever field that we're in. Knowledge to change the world smile.gif
Farmer_C
post Mar 11 2013, 10:28 AM

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QUOTE(ron4 @ Feb 26 2013, 07:57 PM)
Do you prefer lecturers that have a lot of industry experience (but without Phd), compared to lecturers have Phd but zero industry experience.
*
It really depends on what the lecture is on. If it is on theoretical matters, only someone with a PhD will suffice because they are usually at the forefront of research (at least that's how it is in a decent university). If it is on purely practical matters, then someone with noteworthy industry experience and achievement will do a better job.

Note however that there are a lot of PhD degree holders out there who are also leaders in the field in industry and hence can speak not only from experience, but also from their deep understanding of the subject being also involved in research.
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post Mar 11 2013, 01:22 PM

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QUOTE(ron4 @ Feb 26 2013, 07:57 PM)
Do you prefer lecturers that have a lot of industry experience (but without Phd), compared to lecturers have Phd but zero industry experience.
*
As farmer_C has righty said it, that cannot be applied to all fields.

You can't expect a sociologist, a historian, a psychologist, or those in the pure science to work in the industrial corporate setting. For them, research activities are their "experience".

So, I believe you are referring to those in the business field.

However, I wouldn't say those working in the industry are the best teachers. Or they would have the best experience.

Let's compare a logistic manager working in the industry for 20 years with a professor (with zero hands-on indusrial experience) but who have actively carried out research for 20 years. Who has better experience here? It really depends.

The logistic manager may have hands-on working experience in two to five companies for over 20 years (his experience is only limited to the companies he worked in before) but a professor who have personally carried out research in the logistic area have seen the business outcomes/performance of several companies for over 20 years.

The same can be said between an accountant and an auditor. An accountant may personally prepare the accounts in one company but an auditor who checked the accounts of several companies is often said to have collected more experience than an accountant, although the auditor is not the one who prepare the accounts.
eyeshield
post Mar 11 2013, 03:57 PM

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I just start my Phd. I am doing it because of my supervisor request. He keep asking me after i finished my master because short of phd student . So i took it. Feel regret but it already to late. sweat.gif sweat.gif
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post Mar 11 2013, 11:49 PM

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QUOTE(eyeshield @ Mar 11 2013, 03:57 PM)
I just start my Phd. I am doing it because of my supervisor request. He keep asking me after i finished my master because short of phd student . So i took it. Feel regret but it already to late.  sweat.gif  sweat.gif
*
So u ended up doing your own research topic that u interested in, or u r helping your Supervisor to do his/her research?
It is a cheaper way for your supervisor to get a research assistant by just ask u to study PhD.
eyeshield
post Mar 12 2013, 12:44 AM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Mar 11 2013, 11:49 PM)
So u ended up doing your own research topic that u interested in, or u r helping your Supervisor to do his/her research?
It is a cheaper way for your supervisor to get a research assistant by just ask u to study PhD.
*
Im doing his reseach, become GRA for 4 month and then got mybrain. So right now im doing all his research for free sweat.gif
Farmer_C
post Mar 12 2013, 10:26 AM

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QUOTE(eyeshield @ Mar 12 2013, 12:44 AM)
Im doing his reseach, become GRA for 4 month and then got mybrain. So right now im doing all his research for free  sweat.gif
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What's your research on?
you90
post Mar 12 2013, 12:06 PM

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QUOTE(Blofeld @ Mar 11 2013, 01:22 PM)
As farmer_C has righty said it, that cannot be applied to all fields.

You can't expect a sociologist, a historian, a psychologist, or those in the pure science to work in the industrial corporate setting. For them, research activities are their "experience".

So, I believe you are referring to those in the business field.

However, I wouldn't say those working in the industry are the best teachers. Or they would have the best experience.

Let's compare a logistic manager working in the industry for 20 years with a professor (with zero hands-on indusrial experience) but who have actively carried out research for 20 years. Who has better experience here? It really depends.

The logistic manager may have hands-on working experience in two to five companies for over 20 years (his experience is only limited to the companies he worked in before) but a professor who have personally carried out research in the logistic area have seen the business outcomes/performance of several companies for over 20 years.

The same can be said between an accountant and an auditor. An accountant may personally prepare the accounts in one company but an auditor who checked the accounts of several companies is often said to have collected more experience than an accountant, although the auditor is not the one who prepare the accounts.
*
The person doing PhD in logistics obtain the knowledge through paper, survey, research.

They don't gain much on the practical hands-on.

Whereas the logistics manager may have involve much on industrial area, aka they know best of what other companies are doing too as it won't differs too much on logistics fields.

This post has been edited by you90: Mar 12 2013, 12:07 PM
cheahcw2003
post Mar 12 2013, 02:22 PM

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QUOTE(eyeshield @ Mar 12 2013, 12:44 AM)
Im doing his reseach, become GRA for 4 month and then got mybrain. So right now im doing all his research for free  sweat.gif
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That is why i said free RA.
But it's ok, u got what u want ( Dr. Title in 3 years perhaps), and your supervisor got a free and cheap RA,
Blofeld
post Mar 12 2013, 02:30 PM

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QUOTE(you90 @ Mar 12 2013, 12:06 PM)
The person doing PhD in logistics obtain the knowledge through  paper, survey, research.

They don't gain much on the practical hands-on.

Whereas the logistics manager may have involve much on industrial area, aka they know best of what other companies are doing too as it won't differs too much on logistics fields.
*
True. But research does not only involve surveys and mere reading.

There are some who carry out case study business research which involves close observation and in-depth interviews at corporate organisations similar to how consultants/auditors understand deeply about their clients' operations.

I know one PhD graduate who carried out a management "action research" for an MNC and that was his PhD thesis. He provided a solution for that company and he helped the company saved millions of dollars. He is akin to a consultant but he was not paid anything for his contribution to the company at the end of the day.

And some university academics are also involved in consultation activities with industrial practitioners.

So, it really depends on the individual academic of how he/she is involved in the research activities. If the academic is not involved in such research and consultation activities, then he will lose out. I believe that's how many corporate practitioners often misunderstand what academics actually do and they believe that academics only know their stuff "theoretically".

This post has been edited by Blofeld: Mar 12 2013, 02:36 PM
you90
post Mar 12 2013, 02:54 PM

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QUOTE(Blofeld @ Mar 12 2013, 02:30 PM)
True. But research does not only involve surveys and mere reading.

There are some who carry out case study business research which involves close observation and in-depth interviews at corporate organisations similar to how consultants/auditors understand deeply about their clients' operations.

I know one PhD graduate who carried out a management "action research" for an MNC and that was his PhD thesis. He provided a solution for that company and he helped the company saved millions of dollars. He is akin to a consultant but he was not paid anything for his contribution to the company at the end of the day.

And some university academics are also involved in consultation activities with industrial practitioners.

So, it really depends on the individual academic of how he/she is involved in the research activities. If the academic is not involved in such research and consultation activities, then he will lose out. I believe that's how many corporate practitioners often misunderstand what academics actually do and they believe that academics only know their stuff "theoretically".
*
To what extent do you define close observation and in-depth interviews at corporate organisations and consultants/auditors understand deeply about their clients' operation to the practical hand-on in certain industry? This may be subjective but I feel there is a completely different scenario of having to understand and practical hand on.

There are people who are doing Phd for the sake helping or aid in the development /doing some goods to a certain industry. Perhaps, they are attached to do it for their Phd, once done with their Phd, then it is considered done and they are unpaid for that. Coz after all, they need to complete their Phd. That Phd is an industrial Phd whereby their research outcomes are meant for the industry and they r attached and bonded to the industry. However, bear in mind that it often stressful to that extent, as their Phd project are fully funded by that organizations/ industry. I dunno the consequences in case of they can’t complete the Phd on time/ as per expect.

Those involved in consultation activities with industrial practitioners are those already armed with Phd qualification. And hence, they act as a consultant to the industry concerned.

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post Mar 12 2013, 03:40 PM

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QUOTE(you90 @ Mar 12 2013, 02:54 PM)
To what extent do you define close observation and in-depth interviews at corporate organisations  and consultants/auditors understand deeply about their clients' operation to the practical hand-on in certain industry? This may be subjective but I feel there is a completely different scenario of having to understand and practical hand on.

There are people who are doing Phd for the sake helping or aid in the development /doing some goods to a certain industry. Perhaps, they are attached to do it for their Phd, once done with their Phd, then it is considered done and they are unpaid for that. Coz after all, they need to complete their Phd. That Phd is an industrial Phd whereby their research outcomes are meant for the industry and they r attached and bonded to the industry. However, bear in mind that it often stressful to that extent, as their Phd project are fully funded by that organizations/ industry. I dunno the consequences in case of they can’t complete the Phd on time/ as per expect.

Those involved in consultation activities with industrial practitioners are those already armed with Phd qualification. And hence, they act as a consultant to the industry concerned.
*
Observation and in-depth interviews as in a researcher actually sits in and observe the work procedures and interviews employees in the organisation. In this scenario, it is considered a "passive" research, then you are right, they are not involved hands-on in making decisions and doing the administrative work.

But then, not only industrial phd students are carrying out action research for organisations, academics are doing that too. In the case of an action research, the researcher is part of the decision making team. And as you said, those who are already armed with the necessary qualifications, such as PhD, are roped in as consultants by the practitioners.


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post Mar 12 2013, 08:57 PM

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QUOTE(Farmer_C @ Mar 12 2013, 10:26 AM)
What's your research on?
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anti qourum sensing
melol
post Mar 20 2013, 03:57 PM

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I planned to continue with pHD for better future.
I have been working for nearly 4 years now, I feel this is the right way to go. After phd, I planned to go for lecturing... which i feel would give me more flexibility. Besides, I love to share my knowledge & teaching...

Working now I feel stressed at times, caused I don't really like what I am doing. I am merely working for the $$$...

But, change is not so easy , to shift my gear back to study mode, feels like it going to be a challenge to me
Critical_Fallacy
post Mar 20 2013, 04:08 PM

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QUOTE(melol @ Mar 20 2013, 03:57 PM)
I planned to continue with PhD for better future.
GREAT! icon_rolleyes.gif What kind of PhD program do you intend to take?

QUOTE(melol @ Mar 20 2013, 03:57 PM)
I have been working for nearly 4 years now, ... Working now I feel stressed at times, caused I don't really like what I am doing. I am merely working for the $$$...
I can imagine that, and I feel sorry for you. unsure.gif

QUOTE(melol @ Mar 20 2013, 03:57 PM)
But, change is not so easy, to shift my gear back to study mode, feels like it going to be a challenge to me
To shift your gears FORWARD to study mode, you must have the Right Attitude, Right Practice, & Right Understanding. happy.gif
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post Mar 20 2013, 05:42 PM

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QUOTE(eyeshield @ Mar 12 2013, 08:57 PM)
anti qourum sensing
*
Sorry for my noobness laugh.gif
But I though quorum sensing is usually a good thing? Mind sharing what's the applications of anti-quorum sensing? notworthy.gif notworthy.gif
eyeshield
post Mar 20 2013, 06:15 PM

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QUOTE(PF T.J. @ Mar 20 2013, 05:42 PM)
Sorry for my noobness laugh.gif
But I though quorum sensing is usually a good thing? Mind sharing what's the applications of anti-quorum sensing?  notworthy.gif  notworthy.gif
*
One of the bad thing, in case of pathogenic bacteria, quorum sensing is their defensive mechanism against antibiotic and chemical that can kill them. So we have to stop their quorum sensing so that antibiotic can used effectively



This post has been edited by eyeshield: Mar 20 2013, 06:16 PM
v1n0d
post Mar 20 2013, 06:21 PM

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Quite a few people are taking up the offer to do their PhDs directly after their degrees. I welcome you guys to join the club with open arms, but I hope you understand the burden you're signing up for - you'll be molding our future generations; either you commit to do a good job, or don't commit at all. I've met a few people already who're just signing up to get a pay raise, and they've all turned out to be horrible lecturers (the students complain about them to me).
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post Mar 20 2013, 06:32 PM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Mar 20 2013, 04:08 PM)
To shift your gears FORWARD to study mode, you must have the Right Attitude, Right Practice, & Right Understanding. happy.gif
*
I always like your replies with those coloured fonts. biggrin.gif

This post has been edited by Blofeld: Mar 20 2013, 06:33 PM
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post Mar 20 2013, 09:59 PM

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QUOTE(eyeshield @ Mar 20 2013, 06:15 PM)
One of the bad thing, in case of pathogenic bacteria, quorum sensing is their defensive mechanism against antibiotic and chemical that can kill them. So we have to stop their quorum sensing so that antibiotic can used effectively
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Ahhh, didn't thought of that haha, good one~

Critical_Fallacy
post Mar 21 2013, 12:26 AM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 20 2013, 06:21 PM)
Quite a few people are taking up the offer to do their PhDs directly after their degrees. I welcome you guys to join the club with open arms, but I hope you understand the burden you're signing up for - you'll be molding our future generations; either you commit to do a good job, or don't commit at all. I've met a few people already who're just signing up to get a pay raise, and they've all turned out to be horrible lecturers (the students complain about them to me).
Naturally, I can tell by your writing that you are feeling really upset about this. However, I might be missing something here because I’m not sure if I understand what you are saying. But I am not out to disrespect you, because it almost sounded that people who do their PhDs directly after their degrees are horrible lecturers. And I know you would like to resolve this in a way that is fair to the students. Could it be another reason that lead to the student complaints? It would really help me, if you could tell me what the students had complained, so I can understand better.
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post Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Mar 21 2013, 12:26 AM)
Naturally, I can tell by your writing that you are feeling really upset about this. However, I might be missing something here because I’m not sure if I understand what you are saying. But I am not out to disrespect you, because it almost sounded that people who do their PhDs directly after their degrees are horrible lecturers. And I know you would like to resolve this in a way that is fair to the students. Could it be another reason that lead to the student complaints? It would really help me, if you could tell me what the students had complained, so I can understand better.
*
I do find it upsetting, yes. The government has made it their focus to encourage youths to take up a Masters/PhD with their scholarship programs. However, the criteria for acceptance into these courses are the student's CGPA alone. A CGPA of above 3.0 entitles you to do your Masters, whereas a CGPA of above 3.5 entitles you to do your PhD. The problem with this system however is that due to the financial bonuses associated with furthering one's studies, potential candidates overlook the purpose of research degrees - to expand the horizons of knowledge, and relay that knowledge to the future generation. Add this to the lack of any research competency in the acceptance criteria, and we're breeding lecturers that have poor research skills, who merely teach out of obligation, not passion.

The inability to conduct quality research is a core problem as it directly conflicts with the government's initiative to boost research in local higher institutions of learning. Furthermore, the direct-PhD program lacks certain components, mainly an aptitude test in the general field of study, live training of teaching classes, and most importantly, the 3-year "regular" duration rushes candidates to work on novelty projects - research that only serves the purpose of boosting a university's journal repository. Some supervisors even go to the extent of encouraging their students to publish in paid journals, just so they can complete their research within the regular 3-year time frame. I blame this primarily on our failure to adopt the American approach to awarding PhDs, namely a 5-year course which incorporates a Masters degree and a compulsory written assessment on the general field of study.

As far as student complaints go, students mainly complain about two things - either their lecturers don't know their subject material well enough to teach it, or that their supervisors are unable to adequately supervise them, even at an undergraduate level.

P.S. I am a direct-to-PhD candidate, but I actively advise others not to follow this path. There's no merit in saving on a couple of years of study at the cost of losing out important training in research and teaching.
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post Mar 21 2013, 01:31 PM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
... potential candidates overlook the purpose of research degrees - to expand the horizons of knowledge, and relay that knowledge to the future generation.
In this thread alone, I’m sure you find everyone is different, and naturally, people choose to get a PhD for a variety of reasons, including:

• for the prerequisite to becoming a professor
• for future professional opportunities
• for the delay of getting a job
• for the pursuit of knowledge
• for fear of “the real world”
• for the love of research
• for status and acclaim
• for an ego boost

QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
Add this to the lack of any research competency in the acceptance criteria, and we're breeding lecturers that have poor research skills...
As the PhD students work their way through the settling in process, they will identify their goals and objectives in the big picture and then break things down into several tasks. The research competency can be categorized into Mechanisms and Procedure that are necessary to achieve the objectives of the tasks and the experiments. You can imagine children connecting the dots, dot-to-dot on the dot pictures, where the mechanisms are the dots, and the procedure is the steps the children take to join the dots correctly to complete the big picture.

MECHANISMS
You probably already know that designing a suitable experiment to test a hypothesis takes ingenuity and skill. Whether the experiment requires sophisticated equipment or not, there are a number of features that are common to all well-designed experiments and the students should know about this:

(1) Discrimination between different hypotheses
(2) Replicating the results
(3) Controls of variables
(4) Methods of measurement
(5) Blinding conscious and unconscious bias
(6) Accuracy and precision

QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
The inability to conduct quality research is a core problem...
PROCEDURE
In order to conduct an experiment to test each hypothesis, the students need to make a list of the things they will need to do to answer each issue. And this list they create will be their experimental procedure. This procedure should include the appropriate methodologies, technologies and equipment. For some types of experiment, a ‘control’ will be required to act as a reference.

(1) Prepare the materials & equipment
(2) Record the data
(3) Record the observations
(4) Analyze the raw data
(5) Draw conclusions

QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
Furthermore, the direct-PhD program lacks certain components, mainly an aptitude test in the general field of study...
If they don’t yet know what exact area of research they want to pursue, or if their interests are not specific or focused enough, then they probably aren’t ready for PhD programs. If they want to pursue doctorates but are not keen on research, there are some other options available. But telling PhD candidates to write their research interests on papers will generally cause them to think critically about what they want to study and help make their ideas more concrete.

QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
... most importantly, the 3-year "regular" duration rushes candidates to work on novelty projects - research that only serves the purpose of boosting a university's journal repository.
Sometimes we don’t find novelty features and unobviousness in their projects at all. Probably part of the overwhelming nature of the PhD degree is that there are many things to do at once, but if they learn to direct their efforts rather than get sidetracked and try to undertake too many projects at the same time, they can streamline the process and make their life as doctoral students much easier.

One of the things that would help them get through the PhD process more easily would have been a better understanding of what were expected of them. Although the only research they are absolutely required to complete in order to receive the doctorate is their dissertation, there is an implicit (and sometimes explicit) expectation that they must have at least a couple of publications before graduating with their doctorates.

QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
... their lecturers don't know their subject material well enough to teach it, or that their supervisors are unable to adequately supervise them...
Part of being a successful lecturer is being resourceful, especially when it comes to finding information or learning how to accomplish important things, whether in teaching or doing research. The same applies to the students. One of the Right Practice is to reason your way through a problem. People are confronted by problems every day and everything from coming up with a meaningful keynote presentation at work to a PC malfunctioned at home. How they think their way through those problems is what matters and will largely determine their level of success.
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post Mar 21 2013, 02:15 PM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
I do find it upsetting, yes. The government has made it their focus to encourage youths to take up a Masters/PhD with their scholarship programs. However, the criteria for acceptance into these courses are the student's CGPA alone. A CGPA of above 3.0 entitles you to do your Masters, whereas a CGPA of above 3.5 entitles you to do your PhD. The problem with this system however is that due to the financial bonuses associated with furthering one's studies, potential candidates overlook the purpose of research degrees - to expand the horizons of knowledge, and relay that knowledge to the future generation. Add this to the lack of any research competency in the acceptance criteria, and we're breeding lecturers that have poor research skills, who merely teach out of obligation, not passion.

The inability to conduct quality research is a core problem as it directly conflicts with the government's initiative to boost research in local higher institutions of learning. Furthermore, the direct-PhD program lacks certain components, mainly an aptitude test in the general field of study, live training of teaching classes, and most importantly, the 3-year "regular" duration rushes candidates to work on novelty projects - research that only serves the purpose of boosting a university's journal repository. Some supervisors even go to the extent of encouraging their students to publish in paid journals, just so they can complete their research within the regular 3-year time frame. I blame this primarily on our failure to adopt the American approach to awarding PhDs, namely a 5-year course which incorporates a Masters degree and a compulsory written assessment on the general field of study.

As far as student complaints go, students mainly complain about two things - either their lecturers don't know their subject material well enough to teach it, or that their supervisors are unable to adequately supervise them, even at an undergraduate level.

P.S. I am a direct-to-PhD candidate, but I actively advise others not to follow this path. There's no merit in saving on a couple of years of study at the cost of losing out important training in research and teaching.
*
Perhaps the reason there are rubbish lecturers is that they were given rubbish training from rubbish universities by rubbish staff themselves. Easy admission into a postgraduate degree is a factor, as you mentioned. I can only speak from my experience in Australia with Monash University. Most students who have completed their undergraduate degree will be required to show some competency in research/work experience before allowed to enter a postgraduate degree.

I also believe that only elite universities in a given country (?) with world-class pedigree in research, sufficient facilities/funding and a well-structured PhD programme should be allowed to confer PhDs to students. Seriously, PhDs are becoming cheap these days. It is unfair to people who fought hard to enter a world-class grad school and worked thrice as hard and contributed ten times as much to knowledge to graduate with a PhD. It is only these people, these passionate, intelligent people who truly care for their field who deserve to have a PhD and teach future undergraduates.

If you were to do grad school in a prestigious college without a real passion for your field, you will not survive. Monash University makes sure you pass several checkpoints each year and constantly assesses your competency, where the lack thereof will result in you getting kicked out in your first year. The Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences where I'm from is ranked 6th in world and takes its research seriously. They live and breathe high-impact journals. Only novel and high-impact research is undertaken by students and staff alike, which is how it should be in all institutes that award PhDs, the pinnacle of the education system.

I don't think there's anything wrong with the 3-year system. PhD graduates of Monash University (3-year system) are encouraged to do at least one post-doc before allowed to lecture, which I think is a great idea. The people who lecture in my faculty are mostly demi-gods of their field so I think it is unfair to blame the 3-year system.

In short, PhDs should only be awarded by institutes able to carry out internationally-recognised research with a good PhD programme in place. This way, these universities will be compelled to pick only the most passionate, the most intelligent students for their graduate programmes. They will filter out the wannabes by careful assessment of their research competency, by interview and by recommendation. The filtration process will then also continue throughout candidature to root out bad apples. The staff will also be on their toes to produce the best graduates and to do good research, because only world-class staff can produce world-class research and PhD graduates. Perform or get sacked.

This post has been edited by Farmer_C: Mar 21 2013, 02:25 PM
lozenges
post Mar 22 2013, 03:14 AM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 21 2013, 03:56 AM)
I do find it upsetting, yes. The government has made it their focus to encourage youths to take up a Masters/PhD with their scholarship programs. However, the criteria for acceptance into these courses are the student's CGPA alone. A CGPA of above 3.0 entitles you to do your Masters, whereas a CGPA of above 3.5 entitles you to do your PhD. The problem with this system however is that due to the financial bonuses associated with furthering one's studies, potential candidates overlook the purpose of research degrees - to expand the horizons of knowledge, and relay that knowledge to the future generation. Add this to the lack of any research competency in the acceptance criteria, and we're breeding lecturers that have poor research skills, who merely teach out of obligation, not passion.

The inability to conduct quality research is a core problem as it directly conflicts with the government's initiative to boost research in local higher institutions of learning. Furthermore, the direct-PhD program lacks certain components, mainly an aptitude test in the general field of study, live training of teaching classes, and most importantly, the 3-year "regular" duration rushes candidates to work on novelty projects - research that only serves the purpose of boosting a university's journal repository. Some supervisors even go to the extent of encouraging their students to publish in paid journals, just so they can complete their research within the regular 3-year time frame. I blame this primarily on our failure to adopt the American approach to awarding PhDs, namely a 5-year course which incorporates a Masters degree and a compulsory written assessment on the general field of study.

As far as student complaints go, students mainly complain about two things - either their lecturers don't know their subject material well enough to teach it, or that their supervisors are unable to adequately supervise them, even at an undergraduate level.

P.S. I am a direct-to-PhD candidate, but I actively advise others not to follow this path. There's no merit in saving on a couple of years of study at the cost of losing out important training in research and teaching.
*
However, it will be an advantage to you in the future whereby the interviewers will be impressed with your performance because you were allowed to directly convert to phd without going through the master level. I guess only the good one will be allowed to direct to phd candidate.
One of my friend supervisor has been boosting about how good is his student because he is able to complete his direct to phd within 2 n half year. The truth fact is this supervisor is aiming for professorship that required his to release one phd student. This has contributed to the difficulty to other students under the same group bcs the supervisor channelled all the grants and focus on the research carried out by this spesific student.

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post Mar 22 2013, 01:07 PM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Mar 21 2013, 01:31 PM)
In this thread alone, I’m sure you find everyone is different, and naturally, people choose to get a PhD for a variety of reasons, including:

• for the prerequisite to becoming a professor
• for future professional opportunities
• for the delay of getting a job
• for the pursuit of knowledge
• for fear of “the real world”
• for the love of research
• for status and acclaim
• for an ego boost
As the PhD students work their way through the settling in process, they will identify their goals and objectives in the big picture and then break things down into several tasks. The research competency can be categorized into Mechanisms and Procedure that are necessary to achieve the objectives of the tasks and the experiments. You can imagine children connecting the dots, dot-to-dot on the dot pictures, where the mechanisms are the dots, and the procedure is the steps the children take to join the dots correctly to complete the big picture.

MECHANISMS
You probably already know that designing a suitable experiment to test a hypothesis takes ingenuity and skill. Whether the experiment requires sophisticated equipment or not, there are a number of features that are common to all well-designed experiments and the students should know about this:

(1) Discrimination between different hypotheses
(2) Replicating the results
(3) Controls of variables
(4) Methods of measurement
(5) Blinding conscious and unconscious bias
(6) Accuracy and precision
PROCEDURE
In order to conduct an experiment to test each hypothesis, the students need to make a list of the things they will need to do to answer each issue. And this list they create will be their experimental procedure. This procedure should include the appropriate methodologies, technologies and equipment. For some types of experiment, a ‘control’ will be required to act as a reference.

(1) Prepare the materials & equipment
(2) Record the data
(3) Record the observations
(4) Analyze the raw data
(5) Draw conclusions
If they don’t yet know what exact area of research they want to pursue, or if their interests are not specific or focused enough, then they probably aren’t ready for PhD programs. If they want to pursue doctorates but are not keen on research, there are some other options available. But telling PhD candidates to write their research interests on papers will generally cause them to think critically about what they want to study and help make their ideas more concrete.
Sometimes we don’t find novelty features and unobviousness in their projects at all. Probably part of the overwhelming nature of the PhD degree is that there are many things to do at once, but if they learn to direct their efforts rather than get sidetracked and try to undertake too many projects at the same time, they can streamline the process and make their life as doctoral students much easier.

One of the things that would help them get through the PhD process more easily would have been a better understanding of what were expected of them. Although the only research they are absolutely required to complete in order to receive the doctorate is their dissertation, there is an implicit (and sometimes explicit) expectation that they must have at least a couple of publications before graduating with their doctorates.
Part of being a successful lecturer is being resourceful, especially when it comes to finding information or learning how to accomplish important things, whether in teaching or doing research. The same applies to the students. One of the Right Practice is to reason your way through a problem. People are confronted by problems every day and everything from coming up with a meaningful keynote presentation at work to a PC malfunctioned at home. How they think their way through those problems is what matters and will largely determine their level of success.
*
I do not deny that there are multiple reasons to get a PhD, but it's my personal opinion that there's no actual need for one unless you're in the education line. For promotions etc. outside of academia/research, there are plenty of other performance markers. Resorting to a PhD just for the recognition etc. contributes to academic inflation.

As far as research skills go, there's quite a bit to be learned, with simple problem solving being the key one. The core components you mentioned above aren't exactly stressed by all supervisors, particularly the "factory" ones (Bachelors -> Masters -> PhD at the same university with no working experience). My main concern is this - we're responsible for the propagation of knowledge. Poor mastery over the subject matter in combination with a lack of understanding of real-world applications of the field studied results in next-generation supervisors who will conduct closet research of no real impact. The quality of Malaysian research is still world-standard (a result of the publication requirement for graduation), the problem is that it lacks real impact.

QUOTE(Farmer_C @ Mar 21 2013, 02:15 PM)
Perhaps the reason there are rubbish lecturers is that they were given rubbish training from rubbish universities by rubbish staff themselves. Easy admission into a postgraduate degree is a factor, as you mentioned. I can only speak from my experience in Australia with Monash University. Most students who have completed their undergraduate degree will be required to show some competency in research/work experience before allowed to enter a postgraduate degree.

I also believe that only elite universities in a given country (?) with world-class pedigree in research, sufficient facilities/funding and a well-structured PhD programme should be allowed to confer PhDs to students. Seriously, PhDs are becoming cheap these days. It is unfair to people who fought hard to enter a world-class grad school and worked thrice as hard and contributed ten times as much to knowledge to graduate with a PhD. It is only these people, these passionate, intelligent people who truly care for their field who deserve to have a PhD and teach future undergraduates.

If you were to do grad school in a prestigious college without a real passion for your field, you will not survive. Monash University makes sure you pass several checkpoints each year and constantly assesses your competency, where the lack thereof will result in you getting kicked out in your first year. The Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences where I'm from is ranked 6th in world and takes its research seriously. They live and breathe high-impact  journals. Only novel and high-impact research is undertaken by students and staff alike, which is how it should be in all institutes that award PhDs, the pinnacle of the education system.

I don't think there's anything wrong with the 3-year system. PhD graduates of Monash University (3-year system) are encouraged to do at least one post-doc before allowed to lecture, which I think is a great idea. The people who lecture in my faculty are mostly demi-gods of their field so I think it is unfair to blame the 3-year system.

In short, PhDs should only be awarded by institutes able to carry out internationally-recognised research with a good PhD programme in place. This way, these universities will be compelled to pick only the most passionate, the most intelligent students for their graduate programmes. They will filter out the wannabes by careful assessment of their research competency, by interview and by recommendation. The filtration process will then also continue throughout candidature to root out bad apples. The staff will also be on their toes to produce the best graduates and to do good research, because only world-class staff can produce world-class research and PhD graduates. Perform or get sacked.
*
The 3-year system is a mainstay for most of the world, but a direct-to-PhD 3-year system is the one I have a bone to pick with. I'm in this program myself, and when interviewed for a position at a local university, I was told that they prefer those who did the Masters to PhD route as the Masters classes fills a knowledge gap between the Bachelors and PhD degrees. My immediate response was "Why offer a course which you yourselves do not wish to hire from?" They were unable to answer me, but I know that their decision to offer the course was motivated by the government's push for postgraduate research. The sad truth here is that university hiring policy directly clashes with it's strategies for improving graduate research.

Now there still will be candidates who can complete the 3-year direct PhD and produce good work, but I'm worried about the no-so-good-ones that are passing as well. As a product of this system, I don't want to be compared unfairly to those who do substandard work. Earning a PhD implies you're an expert in your field, and the lack of QC I've seen recently is a cause for concern. Your suggestion to limit the awarding of PhDs to be from high-tier universities does directly solve this issue, but it also kills off the research arm in most 2nd-tier universities, which is unacceptable given that some of the more interesting projects I've seen recently are from those institutions that were recently awarded university status.

QUOTE(lozenges @ Mar 22 2013, 03:14 AM)
However, it will be an advantage to you in the future whereby the interviewers will be impressed with your performance because you were allowed to directly convert to phd without going through the master level. I guess only the good one will be allowed to direct to phd candidate.
One of my friend supervisor has been boosting about how good is his student because he is able to complete his direct to phd within 2 n half year. The truth fact is this supervisor is aiming for professorship that required his to release one phd student. This has contributed to the difficulty to other students under the same group bcs the supervisor channelled all the grants and focus on the research carried out by this spesific student.
*
The only requirement for advancing from one's Bachelors to a PhD is a CGPA of above 3.5. This only implies that you're good for studying for exams, and is no real indicator of your actual competency. Blame this on the exam-oriented approach of the Malaysian education system. As a high-CGPA student who has worked in the education line, I can attest to the fact that scoring well in exams means nothing in the real world as our exams are designed to test our ability to replicate information, not synthesize and adapt to given problems. Also, as I have mentioned above, universities themselves are reluctant to hire the direct-to-PhD students. This is probably the biggest vote of no confidence that they have in their own program.
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post Mar 22 2013, 04:57 PM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 22 2013, 01:07 PM)

Now there still will be candidates who can complete the 3-year direct PhD and produce good work, but I'm worried about the no-so-good-ones that are passing as well. As a product of this system, I don't want to be compared unfairly to those who do substandard work. Earning a PhD implies you're an expert in your field, and the lack of QC I've seen recently is a cause for concern. Your suggestion to limit the awarding of PhDs to be from high-tier universities does directly solve this issue, but it also kills off the research arm in most 2nd-tier universities, which is unacceptable given that some of the more interesting projects I've seen recently are from those institutions that were recently awarded university status.
*
I understand what you're saying. It does suck when you've excelled and earned your testamur through and through and find that someone with sub-standard competency has the exact same certificate. I agree that my suggestion was radical and will probably never be implemented anywhere in the world but it gets you thinking as to what PhD graduates should really be like. Should we really have these pseudo-experts in our education system and trust them with our country's undergraduates?
Critical_Fallacy
post Mar 22 2013, 08:32 PM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 22 2013, 01:07 PM)
... but it's my personal opinion that there's no actual need for one [PhD] unless you're in the education line.

Poor mastery over the subject matter in combination with a lack of understanding of real-world applications of the field studied results in next-generation supervisors who will conduct closet research of no real impact.

... but a direct-to-PhD 3-year system is the one I have a bone to pick with. ... The sad truth here is that university hiring policy directly clashes with it's strategies for improving graduate research.

... but I'm worried about the no-so-good-ones that are passing as well. As a product of this system, I don't want to be compared unfairly to those who do substandard work.

This only implies that you're good for studying for exams, and is no real indicator of your actual competency. Blame this on the exam-oriented approach of the Malaysian education system.
I hope I can understand the predicament you were in. We all have preferences & priorities. Moreover, there will always be some things that we will consider to be better than others. Most of us have opinions about what other people should do to take responsibility to do a good job, to get out of a difficult situation, or to make their life better.

Nevertheless, I’m sure you want the best for the people you care about most. But they can’t always see the benefits or the way of life that will come from your experience. In the end, they might not be the best things for yourself, let alone another. So let others do what they think is right for themselves. They maybe bad choices but that’s how people learn. Let them make their mistakes. And focus on learning from your own. Allow another to be, and they’ll want to be around you, charmed by your positive qualities.

It is not often a person is made to be accepted for who they are, when it comes to conflict. Most people shy away from conflict because they hate fighting. Sometimes, we get overwhelmed with all this and we want to stop. And you’ll probably end up feeling frustrated and resentful towards your “horrible” colleagues and some direct-to-PhD students. Conflict needs to be managed before it becomes a destructive force to both mental and physical.

Do you know that a lot can be learned from martial arts when it comes to handling conflict? T’ai chi & Aikido are by far the most useful and effective responses to an attack; they create a win-win situation. Martial artists understand the importance of taking action early. If they detect conflict in the air, they don’t become aggressive or avoid it. They stay calm and assertive. They take time to understand the real cause of the situation. They see the other person’s point of view. And they find an acceptable way forward. Simply put, they compromise!

However, make no mistake as compromise isn’t about lowering your standards or giving up your values for others. It’s about reducing your fruitless demands or changing your opinion to reach an amicable agreement. Compromise is wrong when it means sacrificing a principle. We all have standards. And if our minimum level isn’t met, it’s going to lead to disharmony. So strike the right balance! Take time to think the problem through and plan a constructive way to handle the situation. Go on, help yourself but don’t compromise yourself.
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post Mar 25 2013, 05:22 PM

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QUOTE(Farmer_C @ Mar 22 2013, 04:57 PM)
I understand what you're saying. It does suck when you've excelled and earned your testamur through and through and find that someone with sub-standard competency has the exact same certificate. I agree that my suggestion was radical and will probably never be implemented anywhere in the world but it gets you thinking as to what PhD graduates should really be like. Should we really have these pseudo-experts in our education system and trust them with our country's undergraduates?
*
We shouldn't. Fact is, education policies are dictated by politicians, and those advising them are educators. What I've seen is that it's rare for the good ones to get to such an advisory post, as they end up having to deal with a whole ton of internal politics before they can reach a position good enough to make considerable impact on our educational policy. UM's Prof. Gauth is one of those quality few.

QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Mar 22 2013, 08:32 PM)
I hope I can understand the predicament you were in. We all have preferences & priorities. Moreover, there will always be some things that we will consider to be better than others. Most of us have opinions about what other people should do to take responsibility to do a good job, to get out of a difficult situation, or to make their life better.

Nevertheless, I’m sure you want the best for the people you care about most. But they can’t always see the benefits or the way of life that will come from your experience. In the end, they might not be the best things for yourself, let alone another. So let others do what they think is right for themselves. They maybe bad choices but that’s how people learn. Let them make their mistakes. And focus on learning from your own. Allow another to be, and they’ll want to be around you, charmed by your positive qualities.

It is not often a person is made to be accepted for who they are, when it comes to conflict. Most people shy away from conflict because they hate fighting. Sometimes, we get overwhelmed with all this and we want to stop. And you’ll probably end up feeling frustrated and resentful towards your “horrible” colleagues and some direct-to-PhD students. Conflict needs to be managed before it becomes a destructive force to both mental and physical.

Do you know that a lot can be learned from martial arts when it comes to handling conflict? T’ai chi & Aikido are by far the most useful and effective responses to an attack; they create a win-win situation. Martial artists understand the importance of taking action early. If they detect conflict in the air, they don’t become aggressive or avoid it. They stay calm and assertive. They take time to understand the real cause of the situation. They see the other person’s point of view. And they find an acceptable way forward. Simply put, they compromise!

However, make no mistake as compromise isn’t about lowering your standards or giving up your values for others. It’s about reducing your fruitless demands or changing your opinion to reach an amicable agreement. Compromise is wrong when it means sacrificing a principle. We all have standards. And if our minimum level isn’t met, it’s going to lead to disharmony. So strike the right balance! Take time to think the problem through and plan a constructive way to handle the situation. Go on, help yourself but don’t compromise yourself.
*
In all honesty, I moved on long ago. Although I take the issue close to heart, don't confuse it as me being bitter. I've earned my keep through publications and community service, and I'm happily past my 3-year mark without any regret. My intentions are only to make clear the details of the system to those potential candidates. Had I known what I know today, I would've opted to skip the fast-track program. My only hope is that someone comes across this post and it contributes to him/her making an informed decision.
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post Apr 6 2013, 09:34 AM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ Mar 25 2013, 05:22 PM)
We shouldn't. Fact is, education policies are dictated by politicians, and those advising them are educators. What I've seen is that it's rare for the good ones to get to such an advisory post, as they end up having to deal with a whole ton of internal politics before they can reach a position good enough to make considerable impact on our educational policy. UM's Prof. Gauth is one of those quality few.
In all honesty, I moved on long ago. Although I take the issue close to heart, don't confuse it as me being bitter. I've earned my keep through publications and community service, and I'm happily past my 3-year mark without any regret. My intentions are only to make clear the details of the system to those potential candidates. Had I known what I know today, I would've opted to skip the fast-track program. My only hope is that someone comes across this post and it contributes to him/her making an informed decision.
*
I'm a product of a direct 3 year phd studentship in the UK. I don't see myself beIng s slop
ron4
post Apr 7 2013, 09:36 PM

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The reason is im still not satisfied in my life for just having a degree and master, and also 9 years experience working in industry. I need more knowledge and exposure to make my life more even better in term of knowledge and to be somebody in a country in future.
Critical_Fallacy
post Apr 9 2013, 06:59 PM

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QUOTE(ron4 @ Apr 7 2013, 09:36 PM)
The reason is im still not satisfied in my life for just having a degree and master, and also 9 years experience working in industry. I need more knowledge and exposure to make my life more even better in term of knowledge and to be somebody in a country in future.
Hi Ron,

(1) What’s your dream job?

(2) What bothers you most about not having enough knowledge and exposure?

(3) Are you ever satisfied? Why or why not?

(4) How do you go about illuminating “blind spots” in your life?
IvanWong1989
post Apr 10 2013, 12:17 AM

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Although I am not continuing to further my studies for now since i've decided to test the waters in industry.... but one of the reason I even considered furthering was that there's a particular interest in being a lecturer. Not so because of pay, but because of the available time to do stuff of interest to me.

But I found out interest alone in a particular field does not make a good researcher. I did have interest, but I am particularly annoyed by the need to document.... meaning, I may research, develop, model, design, but all without any documentation as I really disliked it.

As such... I've put my road to further study on hold till perhaps later on.


also just my 2 cents.

It's my believe that a lecturer isn't really teaching in the sense, they are tasked to share. Also, although I'm not a creme de la creme student, I must say, I feel it's bad to the education system if they feel that failing students is a taboo. As with my previous thread about bell grading, I strongly disapprove. To me, the standard to pass doesn't need to be moved to accommodate the batch of students, it is them that has to step up or be kicked out if they can't stand up to par.

What's wrong with failing 99 students out of 100 students? if the 99 can't step up, no use awarding them a degree. Just my 2cents...
Irzani
post Apr 10 2013, 09:27 AM

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QUOTE(IvanWong1989 @ Apr 10 2013, 12:17 AM)

It's my believe that a lecturer isn't really teaching in the sense, they are tasked to share. Also, although I'm not a creme de la creme student, I must say, I feel it's bad to the education system if they feel that failing students is a taboo. As with my previous thread about bell grading, I strongly disapprove. To me, the standard to pass doesn't need to be moved to accommodate the batch of students, it is them that has to step up or be kicked out if they can't stand up to par.

What's wrong with failing 99 students out of 100 students? if the 99 can't step up, no use awarding them a degree. Just my 2cents...
*
Just because you are a lecturer and have a PhD doesn't mean the answer given by the students is wrong. Some shit lecturers are always follow the answer scheme just because they believed the answer is the only right answer. They never admit that they have done wrong and claim that they know better just because they have the so called PhD.

This is one of the reason on why students prefer to memorize notes instead of thinking out of the box.
IvanWong1989
post Apr 10 2013, 10:26 AM

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QUOTE(Irzani @ Apr 10 2013, 09:27 AM)
Just because you are a lecturer and have a PhD doesn't mean the answer given by the students is wrong. Some shit lecturers are always follow the answer scheme just because they believed the answer is the only right answer. They never admit that they have done wrong and claim that they know better just because they have the so called PhD.

This is one of the reason on why students prefer to memorize notes instead of thinking out of the box.
*
Agreed..... I've encountered a few too that takes their answer schemes as the one and only..
Critical_Fallacy
post Apr 10 2013, 06:00 PM

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QUOTE(Irzani @ Apr 10 2013, 09:27 AM)
Just because you are a lecturer and have a PhD doesn't mean the answer given by the students is wrong.
Oh! Dr. Ivan is a lecturer in UniMAP? blink.gif

QUOTE(Irzani @ Apr 10 2013, 09:27 AM)
This is one of the reason on why students prefer to memorize notes instead of thinking out of the box.
Different education culture and society. Almost all answers are printed in the textbooks. Their primary objective is to score and pass with flying colors. “Black or white cat matters not as long as it can catch mice.
Critical_Fallacy
post Apr 10 2013, 06:00 PM

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QUOTE(IvanWong1989 @ Apr 10 2013, 10:26 AM)
Agreed..... I've encountered a few too that takes their answer schemes as the one and only..
There are many kinds of educators in the world.
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post Apr 10 2013, 06:05 PM

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QUOTE(v1n0d @ May 18 2010, 10:02 AM)
Doing my PhD now.
You don't do one unless your interested in the academic line. The pay, benefits etc. don't really make it any better than other management-level jobs out there.
*
Yeap... and on top of that, you feel the burden with the Dr. title, if you are not up-to-date in your area of expertise. But I have seen many doctorates bullshit their way, when they don't know the answer. Just like any field, there are good "doctors" and lousy "doctors"...
IvanWong1989
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lol.. imma not a lecturer la.... @@.... ikan bilis medium grade student only
v1n0d
post Apr 12 2013, 02:57 PM

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QUOTE(giovanni @ Apr 6 2013, 09:34 AM)
I'm a product of a direct 3 year phd studentship in the UK. I don't see myself beIng s slop
*
My criticism is mainly of the Malaysian 3-year direct-to-PhD program. As I have no experience with the UK one, I choose not to pass comment regarding it's quality. I do however wish to note that among the lecturers/supervisors I've had, those with US-based research degrees tend to exhibit a higher level of competency. This of course may just be a coincidence, and doesn't necessarily reflect the overall quality of graduates produced by both these countries. As the forumer below has noted, the quality of a graduate is highly dependent on the person himself/herself.

QUOTE(ekompute @ Apr 10 2013, 06:05 PM)
Yeap... and on top of that, you feel the burden with the Dr. title, if you are not up-to-date in your area of expertise. But I have seen many doctorates bullshit their way, when they don't know the answer. Just like any field, there are good "doctors" and lousy "doctors"...
*
ron4
post Apr 18 2013, 12:15 PM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Apr 9 2013, 06:59 PM)
Hi Ron,

(1) What’s your dream job?

(2) What bothers you most about not having enough knowledge and exposure?

(3) Are you ever satisfied? Why or why not?

(4) How do you go about illuminating “blind spots” in your life?
*
1) My current job. But in future maybe in R&D

2) In industry usually u cannot focus on R&D

3) As above

4) Can't understand what u mean

ron4
post May 20 2013, 11:00 PM

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http://iedaimmi.blogspot.com/2013/03/jins-...egar-walau.html

http://www.mstar.com.my/cerita.asp?file=/2...nusia_peristiwa

This guy was taking his Phd while age around 73 years old. After finished his Phd, now he suffered from alzheimer's disease. Like a few people in this forum said Phd = permanently head damage.

So i think finish your Phd while you still young.

This post has been edited by ron4: May 20 2013, 11:02 PM
zoomckng
post Jun 17 2013, 02:35 PM

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learning is a life Long process. It doesn't stop after doctorate, etc.


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post Jun 17 2013, 07:37 PM

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QUOTE(ron4 @ May 20 2013, 11:00 PM)
http://iedaimmi.blogspot.com/2013/03/jins-...egar-walau.html

http://www.mstar.com.my/cerita.asp?file=/2...nusia_peristiwa

This guy was taking his Phd while age around 73 years old. After finished his Phd, now he suffered from alzheimer's disease. Like a few people in this forum said Phd = permanently head damage.

So i think finish your Phd while you still young.
*
On the contrary, not using your brain enough for thinking is a risk factor for Alzheimer's Disease.
Farmer_C
post Jun 17 2013, 07:43 PM

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QUOTE(zoomckng @ Jun 17 2013, 02:35 PM)
learning is a life Long process. It doesn't stop after doctorate, etc.
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"Ancora imparo (still I am learning)" - Michelangelo
leah235
post Jun 17 2013, 10:50 PM

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QUOTE(zoomckng @ Jun 17 2013, 03:35 PM)
learning is a life Long process. It doesn't stop after doctorate, etc.
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+1

-yl-
post Jun 26 2013, 12:48 AM

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QUOTE(zoomckng @ Jun 17 2013, 02:35 PM)
learning is a life Long process. It doesn't stop after doctorate, etc.
*
agree. no matter where you go, u will need to learn as well. the difference is, when doing your phd, u r free to learn anything u r interested. when u go out to work, u r "forced"/needed to learn something which might not be your interest.
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post Aug 6 2013, 03:31 PM

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I think this thread is dead but... 1. I'm halfway through my Masters, but definitely planning to get my PhD before I hit 29 - 30.

Why am I set on getting my PhD...?

1. Clinical psychologists pay better than Master-level counselors (although mysteriously these counselors get paid well hourly in M'sia).
2. Licensure in other states in the US is usually not a problem.
3. I intend to teach anyway some day.
4. Interdisciplinary studies in some grad schools are fascinating compared to streamlined programs (so frustrating!)
5. I wanted to make sure I surpassed my dad's level (he got his MBA).

I think one of the major problems of going into a PhD program is being left to sort stuff out on your own when you've been so accustomed to direction. Another would be to feel stupid because we're so used to having the "right" answers.

And then just to stay humbled, PhD could also mean people will take you as "educated beyond intelligence", and just because you have a PhD doesn't mean you're smart necessarily (look at the lady who had a PhD and encouraged women to be hoes in the bedroom).

I actually really like writing, so it doesn't bother me to write a thesis. It's facking scary as shit, but I still like research... which, I'm in the "soft science" of psychology so no large focus on labwork for me wahoo!
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post Sep 30 2013, 11:11 AM

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Is it true that going for PhD has lesser chance to build a family because of spending too much time on the research itself?

Because I see most of my lecturer still being single. tongue.gif
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post Sep 30 2013, 12:52 PM

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QUOTE(QDaMonster @ Sep 30 2013, 11:11 AM)
Is it true that going for PhD has lesser chance to build a family because of spending too much time on the research itself?

Because I see most of my lecturer still being single. tongue.gif
*
If you have an understanding partner, then it should be okay.

If your partner is someone immature, then there will be trouble.
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post Oct 3 2013, 07:12 AM

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QUOTE(QDaMonster @ Sep 30 2013, 11:11 AM)
Is it true that going for PhD has lesser chance to build a family because of spending too much time on the research itself?

Because I see most of my lecturer still being single. tongue.gif
*
Don't have kids during your PhD unless someone is willing to look after them for you all the time tongue.gif

Most of the people I know with PhDs have partners so I think it should be okay!
Critical_Fallacy
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QUOTE(QDaMonster @ Sep 30 2013, 11:11 AM)
Is it true that going for PhD has lesser chance to build a family because of spending too much time on the research itself?

Because I see most of my lecturer still being single. tongue.gif
The are things you don't do because you don't have a partner yet. Find the chemistry of love! blush.gif

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kstan23
post Oct 29 2013, 09:49 AM

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Anyone can share about available scholarship for Phd program? Especially offer for Business/Human Resource/Physchology fields program in oversea..or Scholarhisp for Phd itself is given regardless of study field?

Need to find out some info on this in order to prepare for it..

Thanks for the sharing..
vankodoq
post Oct 29 2013, 10:32 AM

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QUOTE(kstan23 @ Oct 29 2013, 09:49 AM)
Anyone can share about available scholarship for Phd program? Especially offer for Business/Human Resource/Physchology fields program in oversea..or Scholarhisp for Phd itself is given regardless of study field?

Need to find out some info on this in order to prepare for it..

Thanks for the sharing..
*
Tried Google yet? Not trying to mock you here, but from first hand experience, if you don't know anyone in your target department in your target university, Google is your best friend. nod.gif

For example, just by searching "psychology phd scholarship" in Google, I have found links to scholarship offer from New Zealand, UK, US, etc. biggrin.gif
kstan23
post Oct 29 2013, 10:42 AM

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QUOTE(vankodoq @ Oct 29 2013, 10:32 AM)
Tried Google yet? Not trying to mock you here, but from first hand experience, if you don't know anyone in your target department in your target university, Google is your best friend. nod.gif

For example, just by searching "psychology phd scholarship" in Google, I have found links to scholarship offer from New Zealand, UK, US, etc. biggrin.gif
*
doh.gif my fault..thinking to find the direct answer (with a link to website offering scholarhip something like that) based on people who experienced getting scholarship before..

Will do the Google by myself.. sweat.gif
vankodoq
post Oct 29 2013, 12:15 PM

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QUOTE(kstan23 @ Oct 29 2013, 10:42 AM)
doh.gif my fault..thinking to find the direct answer (with a link to website offering scholarhip something like that) based on people who experienced getting scholarship before..

Will do the Google by myself.. sweat.gif
*
I've been there before. tongue.gif

Well, to get you going, I think this webpage might be helpful to you. biggrin.gif

This post has been edited by vankodoq: Oct 29 2013, 01:49 PM
Marine Boy
post Nov 25 2013, 04:10 PM

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wow reading this forum got so many macam macam comments. Mostly sick ones minus the humour
cutelildonna
post Nov 27 2013, 01:35 PM

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Not many people who take phd to make money right? Most of them are taking it for the sake of knowledge and prestige.

Those who wish to get more and better pay settled at master or degree. U hardly see a ceo or cfo or even coo with a phd. I've never seen one.

So before u taking a phd just decide what would the phd do good to u.
Critical_Fallacy
post Nov 27 2013, 02:47 PM

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QUOTE(cutelildonna @ Nov 27 2013, 01:35 PM)
Not many people who take phd to make money right? Most of them are taking it for the sake of knowledge and prestige.
A PMP-certified Project Manager with doctorate degree can make a very handsome amount of money, you know. sweat.gif

QUOTE(cutelildonna @ Nov 27 2013, 01:35 PM)
U hardly see a ceo or cfo or even coo with a phd. I've never seen one.
Ir. Dr. Mui Kai Yin is one of the Vice Chairmen of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (Penang Branch), who has the PMP credential. icon_idea.gif
cutelildonna
post Nov 28 2013, 06:36 AM

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[quote=Critical_Fallacy,Nov 27 2013, 02:47 PM]
A PMP-certified Project Manager with doctorate degree can make a very handsome amount of money, you know. sweat.gif

Haha yes i know, i'm looking forward to sit for PMP exam myself by next year and i dont have a phd sweat.gif

Critical_Fallacy
post Nov 28 2013, 03:04 PM

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QUOTE(cutelildonna @ Nov 28 2013, 06:36 AM)
Haha yes i know, i'm looking forward to sit for PMP exam myself by next year and i dont have a phd sweat.gif
OK! Good luck with PMP journey. Make sure you refer to the latest PMBOK® Guide, 5th Edition. icon_rolleyes.gif
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post Nov 28 2013, 03:43 PM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Nov 28 2013, 03:04 PM)
OK! Good luck with PMP journey. Make sure you refer to the latest PMBOK® Guide, 5th Edition. icon_rolleyes.gif
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Thanks blush.gif i hope from time to time i can ask u around about it, if that's ok with u sweat.gif
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post Feb 4 2014, 08:59 PM

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I'm looking forward to a phd. I really like the thrill of knowledge and getting recgnition for it. Money is secondary to me.

Hopefully this is a good enough reason to get a PhD lol.
Critical_Fallacy
post Feb 6 2014, 08:31 AM

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QUOTE(brightjoey @ Feb 4 2014, 08:59 PM)
I'm looking forward to a phd. I really like the thrill of knowledge and getting recgnition for it. Money is secondary to me.

Hopefully this is a good enough reason to get a PhD lol.
Would you tell us your field of specialization? icon_rolleyes.gif
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post Feb 6 2014, 08:40 AM

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QUOTE(zoomckng @ Jun 17 2013, 02:35 PM)
learning is a life Long process. It doesn't stop after doctorate, etc.
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zoomckng,

If you believe that, why do you need a piece of paper like Phd in order to learn??

Dreamer
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post Feb 6 2014, 08:47 AM

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QUOTE(brightjoey @ Feb 4 2014, 08:59 PM)
I'm looking forward to a phd. I really like the thrill of knowledge and getting recgnition for it. Money is secondary to me.

Hopefully this is a good enough reason to get a PhD lol.
*
brightjoey,

That means you DO NOT LOVE what you are learning. Or else, you will do it for FREE.

People that really LOVE knowledge do it for the FUN of it. They do not care whether they get any recognition or paper out of it.

I have thousands of books at home. It covers religion, philosophy, culture, history, and so on... I spent 20+ years of my free time on System Theory. I do it for the FUN of it.

So, what have you LEARN without getting a piece of paper??

Dreamer

quovadis123
post Feb 6 2014, 08:49 AM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Feb 6 2014, 08:31 AM)
Would you tell us your field of specialization? icon_rolleyes.gif
*
Here is brightjoey specialization https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/3118888
Do you have any recommendation for her?

This post has been edited by quovadis123: Feb 6 2014, 08:49 AM
Critical_Fallacy
post Feb 6 2014, 10:03 AM

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QUOTE(brightjoey @ Feb 4 2014, 08:59 PM)
I'm looking forward to a phd. I really like the thrill of knowledge and getting recognition for it. Money is secondary to me.

Hopefully this is a good enough reason to get a PhD lol.
What kind of knowledge is that knowledge you have a thrill of excitement runs through your body?

Most knowledge can be acquired through autodidactism or self-directed learning via scientific articles, textbooks, media reports, pseudoscientific writings, or advertisements. However, some new and promising knowledge can only be acquired, verified and validated through research, countless hours of experiments, and repeated numerical analysis.

PhD programs are generally tailor-made for students who plan to pursue an academic research career, though some students hope to become practitioners in their chosen field. The bottom line is, make sure the content of the PhD program intrinsically interest you for the next 3 years and above.
zoomckng
post Feb 6 2014, 01:07 PM

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QUOTE(dreamer101 @ Feb 6 2014, 08:40 AM)
zoomckng,

If you believe that, why do you need a piece of paper like Phd in order to learn??

Dreamer
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Did I say we need PhDs in order to learn?

Better read my sentence again to understand it.
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post Feb 6 2014, 05:02 PM

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i would go for PhD for personal satisfaction. smile.gif
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post Feb 16 2014, 12:31 PM

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I just completed my master and planning to get PHD. For me, its for academic purpose and furthering your knowledge. If some people said why trying hard to get master or phd? Go doing business la, knowledge is everywhere etc. I simply couldn't brain this as the academic process in higher education is more differ and really open up your mind. U learn something new, theory based and execute more on critical thinking. its a great experience actually and u will see the world in a new perspective.
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post Feb 16 2014, 12:56 PM

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Permanent head Damage ? No, thanks.
prefer Dr. in my name.
why?
personal satisfaction

Blofeld
post Feb 16 2014, 01:34 PM

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Basically, a PhD qualification is important for those who wish to pursue an academic career.

It's similar to those who take up ACCA in order to become an accountant or those who take up CLP to become a lawyer.
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post Feb 21 2014, 03:07 PM

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QUOTE(Blofeld @ Feb 16 2014, 01:34 PM)
Basically, a PhD qualification is important for those who wish to pursue an academic career.

It's similar to those who take up ACCA in order to become an accountant or those who take up CLP to become a lawyer.
*
a bit of hijacking here. Would Masters help for a scientisit/technician in sciences field?

And btw, I would take a PhD not for finance (since PhD people find it really hard to find a relevant job anyway), but for the extra knowledge...
and of coz, for Dr. title and respect. People all find me for answers to lfie, i charge them tongue.gif
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post Feb 21 2014, 06:52 PM

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QUOTE(TheDuckster @ Feb 21 2014, 03:07 PM)
a bit of hijacking here. Would Masters help for a scientisit/technician in sciences field?

And btw, I would take a PhD not for finance (since PhD people find it really hard to find a relevant job anyway), but for the extra knowledge...
and of coz, for Dr. title and respect. People all find me for answers to lfie, i charge them tongue.gif
*
I'm pretty sure Master's and PhD qualifications are important for those in the pure science field. Just like in Engineering, even those with a PhD in Engineering are welcomed and are highly paid by the manufacturing firms.

This is unlike in the business field where the PhD qualifications are deemed unimportant unless you are in academic.

Which field are you in?
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post Feb 23 2014, 02:10 AM

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QUOTE(Blofeld @ Feb 21 2014, 06:52 PM)
I'm pretty sure Master's and PhD qualifications are important for those in the pure science field. Just like in Engineering, even those with a PhD in Engineering are welcomed and are highly paid by the manufacturing firms.

This is unlike in the business field where the PhD qualifications are deemed unimportant unless you are in academic.

Which field are you in?
*
Undecided since different uni's have different niches in which they are good in.
Currently considering Biotech, Biosystems Engineering, Biohealth Sciences, and Biomed Sciences. But threw in Biomolecule for UPU application.
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post Mar 9 2014, 02:38 PM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 18 2010, 09:51 AM)
If anyone here has a PhD, can you share with us what made you decide to get a PhD?

Was it because

- better salary
- prestige
- job promotion
- genuine academic interest
- you didn't know what to do with life & you had a sponsor
- your father told you to

I did ask a couple of PhD's in real life. One said prestige, the other said better salary... which she now regrets becoz a lecturer's salary really sucks.

Does anyone really go for a PhD because they were truly interested in the knowledge?
*
can u provide me some info on hw much salary for her at that time, to be considered as low, and hw much is her salary right now(if she is still in that field). thxs.
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post Apr 6 2014, 07:15 PM

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Why? Hmm..I also dunno. ahaha. Mybe because I need to? I'm also can't believe myself that I need to further phd. ahahah. But, I do hope, once I completed phd, I will able to serve country and nurture students that will navigate our country
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post Apr 6 2014, 07:16 PM

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This post has been edited by crixivan: Apr 6 2014, 07:17 PM
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post Jul 3 2014, 02:13 AM

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Prestige, perhaps higher pay... But must have interest on the research topic or else it will be suffering.
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for the sake of my family
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post Jul 30 2014, 12:07 PM

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QUOTE(Manada @ Jul 27 2014, 02:56 AM)
I think people who pursue to further their education up until the highest title are insane!

However, they have a crave for knowledge that I just couldn't fathom. Knowledge are their orgasms.
*
I hardly encounter anyone personally that decided to pursue PhD for the sake of knowledge. hmm.gif

Knowledge can be easily gained by reading books and articles.

Could this be a common misunderstanding what PhD is for?

The ones I know personally do it for the sake of academic career.

Just like how those who wish to be accountant decided to take up ACCA.

Likewise, those who wish to climb up the academic ladder decided to take up PhD.
bb100
post Jul 30 2014, 12:31 PM

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QUOTE(Blofeld @ Feb 21 2014, 06:52 PM)
I'm pretty sure Master's and PhD qualifications are important for those in the pure science field. Just like in Engineering, even those with a PhD in Engineering are welcomed and are highly paid by the manufacturing firms.

This is unlike in the business field where the PhD qualifications are deemed unimportant unless you are in academic.

Which field are you in?
*
Sorry to quote your February post. blush.gif But I would like to clarify one thing.

A PhD degree in Engineering is near to useless here in Malaysia, unless you wanna go into academia. It is worth nothing in the industry. You will only get paid a few hundred more and do the same kuli work with fresh grad engineers. This is because R&D in Malaysia is dead! Most, if not all R&Ds here is being done by the parent factory overseas.

I was in a MNC as a trainee engineer. All their new products and new technologies come directly from Germany. I was a fresh grad engineer (also in an MNC) in charge of new products. All their research on new technologies are being done in the US. Their factories here are just manufacturing plants that reproduce the products developed over there.

This post has been edited by bb100: Jul 30 2014, 12:33 PM
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post Jul 30 2014, 12:35 PM

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QUOTE(Beastboy @ May 18 2010, 09:51 AM)
If anyone here has a PhD, can you share with us what made you decide to get a PhD?

Was it because

- better salary
- prestige
- job promotion
- genuine academic interest
- you didn't know what to do with life & you had a sponsor
- your father told you to

I did ask a couple of PhD's in real life. One said prestige, the other said better salary... which she now regrets becoz a lecturer's salary really sucks.

Does anyone really go for a PhD because they were truly interested in the knowledge?
*
I got my PhD but

1) the salary is lousy and it is not worth it
2) everyone has it now even if you are brain dead you can get one
3) since everyone has phd, job promotion is not based on phd
4) perhaps if you are interested it is just for that
5) if you have a sugar daddy and mummy ask them to buy you a house rather than a phd, more worth it that way
6) if your father told you to then it is up to you whether it is worth it or not

I agree lecturer salary really sucks and students want to beat you up especially the Khazak ones.
bb100
post Jul 30 2014, 12:36 PM

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QUOTE(Blofeld @ Jul 30 2014, 12:07 PM)
I hardly encounter anyone personally that decided to pursue PhD for the sake of knowledge.  hmm.gif

Knowledge can be easily gained by reading books and articles.

Could this be a common misunderstanding what PhD is for?

The ones I know personally do it for the sake of academic career.

Just like how those who wish to be accountant decided to take up ACCA.

Likewise, those who wish to climb up the academic ladder decided to take up PhD.
*
Not everyone does it for the sake of an academic career. I see my PhD degree as a passport to get outta Bolehland.
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post Jul 30 2014, 12:37 PM

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QUOTE(bb100 @ Jul 30 2014, 12:31 PM)
Sorry to quote your February post. blush.gif But I would like to clarify one thing.

A PhD degree in Engineering is near to useless here in Malaysia, unless you wanna go into academia. It is worth nothing in the industry. You will only get paid a few hundred more and do the same kuli work with fresh grad engineers. This is because R&D in Malaysia is dead! Most, if not all R&Ds here is being done by the parent factory overseas.

I was in a MNC as a trainee engineer. All their new products and new technologies come directly from Germany. I was a fresh grad engineer (also in an MNC) in charge of new products. All their research on new technologies are being done in the US. Their factories here are just manufacturing plants that reproduce the products developed over there.
*
I see.

I know one PhD engineering graduate who went back to the industry and he's paid very well overseas. He's has never been in academia before. He's not in Malaysia for sure.

What do you think about the situation in Singapore?


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post Jul 30 2014, 12:38 PM

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QUOTE(zheng88 @ Jul 30 2014, 12:35 PM)
I got my PhD but

1) the salary is lousy and it is not worth it
2) everyone has it now even if you are brain dead you can get one
3) since everyone has phd, job promotion is not based on phd
4) perhaps if you are interested it is just for that
5) if you have a sugar daddy and mummy ask them to buy you a house rather than a phd, more worth it that way
6) if your father told you to then it is up to you whether it is worth it or not

I agree lecturer salary really sucks and students want to beat you up especially the Khazak ones.
*
Where did you obtain your PhD? If it is from a reputable university, why don't you try and leave Malaysia to get a better job prospect?
bb100
post Jul 30 2014, 12:46 PM

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QUOTE(Blofeld @ Jul 30 2014, 12:37 PM)
I see.

I know one PhD engineering graduate who went back to the industry and he's paid very well overseas. He's has never been in academia before. He's not in Malaysia for sure.

What do you think about the situation in Singapore?
*
Yea, I think you told me before. Your friend is a smart chap! thumbup.gif

As much as I know for engineering PhD degrees, oversea countries value them highly, and Singapore is one of them. Singapore has quite a number of research institutes which offer quite attractive packages for PhD holders. One of my seniors from Penang is working with a research facility in Singapore with a monthly salary of >S$6k. Just got married and rumah kat Singapore pun sudah beli.
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phd useless here. dun waste your time. No point become a broke phd guy when even the spm guy who start working early is even richer than u and worst they could be your boss lol
Critical_Fallacy
post Sep 2 2014, 10:24 AM

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QUOTE(Sammich! @ Sep 2 2014, 09:20 AM)
PhD useless here. Don't waste your time. No point becoming a broke PhD guy when even a SPM guy who starts working early is even richer than you and worst they could be your boss lol
Sempai, don't say you are useless. You've helped many young people in the Biotech forum.

Please reclaim your self-esteem. Anyhow, thank you for sharing your experience. notworthy.gif
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post Sep 2 2014, 10:34 AM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Sep 2 2014, 10:24 AM)
Sempai, don't say you are useless. You've helped many young people in the Biotech forum.

Please reclaim your self-esteem. Anyhow, thank you for sharing your experience. notworthy.gif
*
really you very difficult to get job with phd and even then it might not be the field u specialize your phd in.

For example, I went japan and also haf 2 schoolmate also went there. I only masters while they phd.

They thought come back will get to become lecturer since their scholarship is kinda link to the university thought not directly but got connection la. WHen back the university cant offer them lecturer position cos they already reserve for a special program by the university and can only offer research post until there is vacancy.

One of them went to private sector and work similar but not directly related while another continue as research lo. After some time no chance be lecturer also so apply to japan uni and work there.

So in Malaysia cant find job need to back japan. Imagine how he will separate with his family due to no choice?
Critical_Fallacy
post Sep 3 2014, 01:47 AM

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QUOTE(Sammich! @ Sep 2 2014, 10:34 AM)
really you very difficult to get job with phd and even then it might not be the field u specialize your phd in.
Hi Sempai,

Is it worth pursuing a Master’s Degree? unsure.gif

• Master of Science (MSc)

• Master of Engineering (MEng)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
SUSSammich!
post Sep 3 2014, 08:43 AM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Sep 3 2014, 01:47 AM)
Hi Sempai,

Is it worth pursuing a Master’s Degree? unsure.gif

• Master of Science (MSc)

• Master of Engineering (MEng)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
*
MBA unless your company recognize if not its a waste of time.

For MSc and MEng depends on what field you are in if not it is waste. Engineering could be more worth compare to the normal chemistry or biology courses.

Best I could advice to do is go and check in jobstreet now as if you are looking for a job. Then you will get a feel of the job market if it is worth having the masters and all.

Another thing is if you decide to do masters/phd in local, check the university record. Some superviors are known to hold their students do their masters/phd for many yrs from 3 to 4 or 5. That's the reason when I did mine I never intend to go local. I get scholarship overseas and get it done as fast a spossible as overseas they cant hold u back so long.

Then there is research mode and academic class mode. Research they usually hold u long for the supervisor won benefit. Academic class usually they can do much and u grad in 1 year.

Best is do masters when the company offer than do your own like my bro in law he join intel and intel send him for masters course. So he gain working experience, seniority, a job and his masters all at the same time.
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post Sep 12 2014, 01:51 PM

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If you are looking to earn lots of money, getting a professional qualification is miles better.

Life in academia pays like dirt in this country (when compared to the amount of time you invest to reach there), but in return, you get lots of free time to pursue leisurely interest. And you do not need to retire until you want to.
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post Sep 13 2014, 06:43 AM

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QUOTE(reinloch @ Sep 12 2014, 01:51 PM)
If you are looking to earn lots of money, getting a professional qualification is miles better.
Do you know that Einstein’s Theory of Relativity makes you smaller? sweat.gif

If you want make more money than most professions, start your own business and innovate the ABCD Way! icon_rolleyes.gif

A :: Apple
B :: Baidu
C :: Coca-cola
D :: Digi (ranked #100 in Forbes' World's Most Innovative Companies)
reinloch
post Sep 19 2014, 10:07 AM

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QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Sep 13 2014, 06:43 AM)
Do you know that Einstein’s Theory of Relativity makes you smaller? sweat.gif

If you want make more money than most professions, start your own business and innovate the ABCD Way! icon_rolleyes.gif

A :: Apple
B :: Baidu
C :: Coca-cola
D :: Digi (ranked #100 in Forbes' World's Most Innovative Companies)
*
I'm just saying most phds end up in the academia. Academics in this country are underpaid.
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post Sep 22 2014, 04:55 AM

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QUOTE(Sammich! @ Sep 3 2014, 08:43 AM)
MBA unless your company recognize if not its a waste of time.

For MSc and MEng depends on what field you are in if not it is waste. Engineering could be more worth compare to the normal chemistry or biology courses.

Best I could advice to do is go and check in jobstreet now as if you are looking for a job. Then you will get a feel of the job market if it is worth having the masters and all.

Another thing is if you decide to do masters/phd in local, check the university record. Some superviors are known to hold their students do their masters/phd for many yrs from 3 to 4 or 5. That's the reason when I did mine I never intend to go local. I get scholarship overseas and get it done as fast a spossible as overseas they cant hold u back so long.

Then there is research mode and academic class mode. Research they usually hold u long for the supervisor won benefit. Academic class usually they can do much and u grad in 1 year.

Best is do masters when the company offer than do your own like my bro in law he join intel and intel send him for masters course. So he gain working experience, seniority, a job and his masters all at the same time.
*
So u would say that M. Sc. in any biology subject would be a waste of time? I was thinking if any company will let me do that.

QUOTE(reinloch @ Sep 12 2014, 01:51 PM)
If you are looking to earn lots of money, getting a professional qualification is miles better.

Life in academia pays like dirt in this country (when compared to the amount of time you invest to reach there),  but in return, you get lots of free time to pursue leisurely interest. And you do not need to retire until you want to.
*
What I heard from my boss is that he got RM80 as first then RM100-120 per hour lecture in UPM. hmm.gif is this high enough? I'm worried coz this is what I'm pursuing beside a tuition business.

This post has been edited by TheDuckster: Sep 22 2014, 04:56 AM
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post Sep 22 2014, 12:30 PM

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QUOTE(TheDuckster @ Sep 22 2014, 04:55 AM)
So u would say that M. Sc. in any biology subject would be a waste of time? I was thinking if any company will let me do that.
What I heard from my boss is that he got RM80 as first then RM100-120 per hour lecture in UPM. hmm.gif is this high enough? I'm worried coz this is what I'm pursuing beside a tuition business.
*
Ya waste time if u plan to work private and get a lot money. If your plan is contribute to the world and make good research then yo for it. Your boss is PhD and working private or lecturer?
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post Sep 23 2014, 01:52 AM

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QUOTE(Sammich! @ Sep 22 2014, 12:30 PM)
Ya waste time if u plan to work private and get a lot money. If your plan is contribute to the world and make good research then yo for it. Your boss is PhD and working private or lecturer?
*
he worked as a lecturer before he opens a tuition centre. kinda worrying. i may as well pursue Master of Health Adminstration huh? hmm.gif best of both worlds.
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post Sep 23 2014, 04:37 PM

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Just got my MBA as well. The thought of going into DBA is strong, but the class fees are high and a lot of DBA graduates aren't getting any better pays also so decided to drop the thought of taking DBA.

But getting a Dr. in front of your name sounds cool. lol
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post Sep 25 2014, 08:58 PM

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QUOTE(aleluya @ Sep 23 2014, 04:37 PM)
Just got my MBA as well. The thought of going into DBA is strong, but the class fees are high and a lot of DBA graduates aren't getting any better pays also so decided to drop the thought of taking DBA.

But getting a Dr. in front of your name sounds cool. lol
*
Depending on the course structure, i would say majority of the DBA course structure is the repeat of MBA, if you have already got MBA, u may want to avoid DBA.

Just do PhD or Phd Industry.
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post Sep 25 2014, 09:03 PM

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QUOTE(Sammich! @ Sep 2 2014, 09:20 AM)
phd useless here. dun waste your time. No point become a broke phd guy when even the spm guy who start working early is even richer than u and worst they could be your boss lol
*
Each individuals pursue PhD for various reasons, not all chasing for money.
I know one 60 years old guy just completed his PhD study
aleluya
post Sep 26 2014, 04:08 PM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Sep 25 2014, 08:58 PM)
Depending on the course structure, i would say majority of the DBA course structure is the repeat of MBA, if you have already got MBA, u may want to avoid DBA.

Just do PhD or Phd Industry.
*
Thanks for the info. For PHD, is it same as DBA where you need to submit your proposal first then see if they want to accept you?
cheahcw2003
post Sep 26 2014, 04:29 PM

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QUOTE(aleluya @ Sep 26 2014, 04:08 PM)
Thanks for the info. For PHD, is it same as DBA where you need to submit your proposal first then see if they want to accept you?
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I did apply for a DBA program later I got an offer for PHD.
Both require research proposal
pgboy_serdang
post Sep 28 2014, 04:30 PM

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QUOTE(Sammich! @ Sep 2 2014, 09:20 AM)
phd useless here. dun waste your time. No point become a broke phd guy when even the spm guy who start working early is even richer than u and worst they could be your boss lol
*
haha.. i agree with the financial part, but not completely useless la, at least u get a title in front of your surname.
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post Oct 14 2014, 11:59 AM

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Wow, i'm 1.5 years into my PhD and I'm already regretting it. =(
Critical_Fallacy
post Oct 14 2014, 01:56 PM

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QUOTE(2890 @ Oct 14 2014, 11:59 AM)
Wow, i'm 1.5 years into my PhD and I'm already regretting it. =(
Setbacks in the lab (as well as in life) are inevitable, and no different from the working life of most people. In fact, enlightened adults learn how to deal with them that will turn a setback into an opportunity for growth. If you think of setbacks as not being failures, mistakes, or wrong turns, but rather a chance to learn and grow, you will be much better equipped to put yourself back on the right track in a positive way. icon_rolleyes.gif

Motivating people is Blofeld’s doctoral forte. nod.gif
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post Oct 14 2014, 02:21 PM

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QUOTE(2890 @ Oct 14 2014, 11:59 AM)
Wow, i'm 1.5 years into my PhD and I'm already regretting it. =(
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Why are you regretting it?

QUOTE(Critical_Fallacy @ Oct 14 2014, 01:56 PM)
Setbacks in the lab (as well as in life) are inevitable, and no different from the working life of most people. In fact, enlightened adults learn how to deal with them that will turn a setback into an opportunity for growth. If you think of setbacks as not being failures, mistakes, or wrong turns, but rather a chance to learn and grow, you will be much better equipped to put yourself back on the right track in a positive way. icon_rolleyes.gif

Motivating people is Blofeld’s doctoral forte. nod.gif
*
laugh.gif It's not my forte yet
pgboy_serdang
post Oct 23 2014, 01:50 PM

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QUOTE(2890 @ Oct 14 2014, 11:59 AM)
Wow, i'm 1.5 years into my PhD and I'm already regretting it. =(
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erm... maybe make a U-turn is not a bad choice, since you havent gone that far...
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post Oct 23 2014, 02:14 PM

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Just out of curiosity, what is the olderst age of members here that started their PhD (or even DBA) and are there anyone from Corporate sector (ie not Academia from Uni) doing their PhD (or DBA) here?
delsoo
post Dec 28 2014, 11:40 AM

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can i skip master and straight study phd after getting my degree?
Critical_Fallacy
post Dec 29 2014, 02:32 PM

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QUOTE(delsoo @ Dec 28 2014, 11:40 AM)
can i skip master and straight study phd after getting my degree?
Why do you ask? unsure.gif
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post Dec 29 2014, 07:01 PM

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QUOTE(delsoo @ Dec 28 2014, 11:40 AM)
can i skip master and straight study phd after getting my degree?
*
Some Australian uni allowed their Hons degree students to pursue PhD degree with sholarship
Most Local U allow it provided ur 1st degree is first class.

But then u need research skill to start your PhD.
cheahcw2003
post Dec 29 2014, 07:05 PM

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QUOTE(cfa28 @ Oct 23 2014, 02:14 PM)
Just out of curiosity, what is the olderst age of members here that started their PhD (or even DBA) and are there anyone from Corporate sector (ie not Academia from Uni) doing their PhD (or DBA) here?
*
who wanna declare their age here???? LOL

I know there is a 58 years old graduate in UM. graduated this year
delsoo
post Dec 29 2014, 08:23 PM

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normally how long is the duration for phD and master ? 2 years for each?
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post Dec 29 2014, 08:37 PM

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QUOTE(delsoo @ Dec 29 2014, 08:23 PM)
normally how long is the duration for phD and master ? 2 years for each?
*
If by research, then it depends on urself. If u can get the result quick and finish writing ur thesis quick, then u can grad in 1 year time. If u can't discipline urself, it can take up to 3 years.

Based on my uni,

http://ips.ump.edu.my/index.php/en/academi...ry-requirements

Master by Research:
1) Full time - minimum 2 semester (1 year), maximum 6 semesters (3 years)
2) Part time - minimum 4 semester (2 years), maximum 10 semesters (5 years)

PHD:
1) Full time - minimum 4 semesters (2 years), maximum 12 semesters (6 years)
2) Part time - minimum 8 semesters(4 years), maximum 16 semesters (8 years)
delsoo
post Dec 29 2014, 09:33 PM

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QUOTE(briantwj @ Dec 29 2014, 08:37 PM)
If by research, then it depends on urself. If u can get the result quick and finish writing ur thesis quick, then u can grad in 1 year time. If u can't discipline urself, it can take up to 3 years.

Based on my uni,

http://ips.ump.edu.my/index.php/en/academi...ry-requirements

Master by Research:
1) Full time - minimum 2 semester (1 year), maximum 6 semesters (3 years)
2) Part time - minimum 4 semester (2 years), maximum 10 semesters (5 years)

PHD:
1) Full time - minimum 4 semesters (2 years), maximum 12 semesters (6 years)
2) Part time - minimum 8 semesters(4 years), maximum 16 semesters (8 years)
*
for the thesis , normally how long did the students take to finish it?
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post Dec 29 2014, 09:39 PM

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QUOTE(delsoo @ Dec 29 2014, 09:33 PM)
for the thesis , normally  how long did the students take to finish it?
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Not sure bout this. But my sv give me 3 months to finish it.

Imho, best is to do it every semester. Then u don't nid to write the whole thesis at one go at the end of ur research. Just keep writing while ur doing ur research. nod.gif
cheahcw2003
post Dec 30 2014, 09:38 PM

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QUOTE(delsoo @ Dec 29 2014, 09:33 PM)
for the thesis , normally  how long did the students take to finish it?
*
it is entirely based on the individuals.
for phd, i have seen some completed in 2 years time, work very very hard.
i also have seen some take 10 years also cannot complete
Starbucki
post Jan 1 2015, 10:26 PM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Dec 30 2014, 09:38 PM)
it is entirely based on the individuals.
for phd, i have seen some completed in 2 years time, work very very hard.
i also have seen some take 10 years also cannot complete
*
I would like to add that it also depends on the candidate's supervisor. Very much so.
cheahcw2003
post Jan 1 2015, 11:58 PM

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QUOTE(Starbucki @ Jan 1 2015, 10:26 PM)
I would like to add that it also depends on the candidate's supervisor. Very much so.
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+1, strongly agree
juniortok
post Jan 19 2015, 03:59 PM

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QUOTE(cfa28 @ Oct 23 2014, 02:14 PM)
Just out of curiosity, what is the olderst age of members here that started their PhD (or even DBA) and are there anyone from Corporate sector (ie not Academia from Uni) doing their PhD (or DBA) here?
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I started when I was 40. My class average age is 38 (range 28 to 48)... biggrin.gif
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post Jan 19 2015, 04:01 PM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Dec 30 2014, 09:38 PM)
it is entirely based on the individuals.
for phd, i have seen some completed in 2 years time, work very very hard.
i also have seen some take 10 years also cannot complete
*
But Cheah, if the uni allows their students to complete within 2 years, they will be breaching the rules set by the 3 accreditation bodies... I understand that the minimum is 3 years..

(But I am talking about DBA)

This post has been edited by juniortok: Jan 19 2015, 04:02 PM
cfa28
post Jan 19 2015, 06:42 PM

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QUOTE(juniortok @ Jan 19 2015, 03:59 PM)
I started when I was 40.  My class average age is 38 (range 28 to 48)... biggrin.gif
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where are you doing your Doctorate?
juniortok
post Jan 19 2015, 07:37 PM

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QUOTE(cfa28 @ Jan 19 2015, 06:42 PM)
where are you doing your Doctorate?
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UK, part time
Starbucki
post Jan 19 2015, 07:42 PM

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QUOTE(juniortok @ Jan 19 2015, 07:37 PM)
UK, part time
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Is there a college in Malaysia that offers DBA with residencies in UK?
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post Jan 19 2015, 11:02 PM

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QUOTE(juniortok @ Jan 19 2015, 04:01 PM)
But Cheah, if the uni allows their students to complete within 2 years, they will be breaching the rules set by the 3 accreditation bodies... I understand that the minimum is 3 years..

(But I am talking about DBA)
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there is no hard and fast rules, as long as u can show result.
Most uni impose min 2 years and max 4 years,
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post Jan 20 2015, 11:25 AM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Jan 19 2015, 11:02 PM)
there is no hard and fast rules, as long as u can show result.
Most uni impose min 2 years and max 4 years,
*
If that is the case, I suspect the school is not accredited (by all 3 agencies but maybe 1-2) because I have experience with 3 friends of mine who could not get their PHD because they did it full time and the school refused to let him pass because it will affect their accreditation by the 3 accreditation agencies.

Starbucki, I dont understand your question....
Starbucki
post Jan 20 2015, 11:50 AM

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QUOTE(juniortok @ Jan 20 2015, 11:25 AM)

Starbucki, I dont understand your question....
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I was enquiring if your programme has any tie-ups with a Malaysian institution, because it is quite uncommon for a full time employee to spend hundreds of thousands in RM to work on a British DBA that requires substantial residencies in UK.

I am trying to understand your motivation.
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post Jan 20 2015, 12:44 PM

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QUOTE(Starbucki @ Jan 20 2015, 11:50 AM)
I was enquiring if your programme has any tie-ups with a Malaysian institution, because it is quite uncommon for a full time employee to spend hundreds of thousands in RM to work on a British DBA that requires substantial residencies in UK.

I am trying to understand your motivation.
*
Oh...besides all the serious reasons, I do it for a very important personal reason. I worked very hard for my family in the last 10 years (and 5 years for myself before that). I think it is time for me to get my reward. Besides a personal achievement, I look forward to going UK every Feb, June and Oct. I go with 100% intention to enjoy the trip and learning. The last time I stopped over at Dubai, which I have never been. This time Paris, which I have never been too. Next time I will stop by Amsterdam. Last time I flew economy. This time I fly premium economy. Hopefully, I strike a lottery next month and I fly business in June. If not, economy again. All these remind me of my life, make me reflect that I am a person. Not a dog.

Having said that, I make plans too. I have discussed with a couple of banks who said that they would support me in terms of providing me with data (not giving me money). I have gotten a few developers who said that they will help me publish in China. I have made contact with 2 universities (starting to make friends) so that when I get my degree, they will hire me as a adjunct professor. I will only get my degree in 4 years time, but I have started doing all these (and more which I didnt list). This is called long term greed (Goldman Sachs motto). I have not achieved anything yet, but I have a game plan which is half way through my execution.

I get you about the financial costs of doing this. But there is bigger picture here. DBA/PHD is a 4-5 years program with a lots of commitment (a lot of work, trust me). What is the opportunity cost?? If you invest the RM200,000 into a business today and work as hard for it....you might even build a small listed company if you have the vision and network or a side business that make you stable income few years later. This sounds silly but its totally true. So, if you dont plan your DBA well, your IRR is definitely negative (Senior Lecturer income is only 10k per month, no bonus). So, it is very important about why you want to do it. So, why you want to do it?
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QUOTE(juniortok @ Jan 20 2015, 11:25 AM)
If that is the case, I suspect the school is not accredited (by all 3 agencies but maybe 1-2) because I have experience with 3 friends of mine who could not get their PHD because they did it full time and the school refused to let him pass because it will affect their accreditation by the 3 accreditation agencies. 

Starbucki, I dont understand your question....
*
what do u meant by accredited? By which body?

For my current university for example. some already get their theoretical framework ready, up to Methodology chapter, once they get the admission, they will start collecting data, so no surprise can do it within 2 or 2.5 years.

I also notice some PhD student register as part time student (so that they pay 50% fee), but work full time on his/her research so can get it done in short time, even enrolled as part time study mode, in order to save cost.



This post has been edited by cheahcw2003: Jan 20 2015, 10:20 PM
ru40342
post Jan 21 2015, 09:22 PM

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QUOTE(juniortok @ Jan 20 2015, 12:44 PM)
Oh...besides all the serious reasons, I do it for a very important personal reason.  I worked very hard for my family in the last 10 years (and 5 years for myself before that).  I think it is time for me to get my reward.  Besides a personal achievement, I look forward to going UK every Feb, June and Oct.  I go with 100% intention to enjoy the trip and learning.  The last time I stopped over at Dubai, which I have never been.  This time Paris, which I have never been too.  Next time I will stop by Amsterdam.  Last time I flew economy.  This time I fly premium economy.  Hopefully, I strike a lottery next month and I fly business in June. If not, economy again.  All these remind me of my life, make me reflect that I am a person. Not a dog. 

Having said that, I make plans too.  I have discussed with a couple of banks who said that they would support me in terms of providing me with data (not giving me money).  I have gotten a few developers who said that they will help me publish in China.  I have made contact with 2 universities (starting to make friends) so that when I get my degree, they will hire me as a adjunct professor.  I will only get my degree in 4 years time, but I have started doing all these (and more which I didnt list).  This is called long term greed (Goldman Sachs motto).  I have not achieved anything yet, but I have a game plan which is half way through my execution.

I get you about the financial costs of doing this.  But there is bigger picture here.  DBA/PHD is a 4-5 years program with a lots of commitment (a lot of work, trust me).  What is the opportunity cost??  If you invest the RM200,000 into a business today and work as hard for it....you might even build a small listed company if you have the vision and network or a side business that make you stable income few years later. This sounds silly but its totally true.  So, if you dont plan your DBA well, your IRR is definitely negative (Senior Lecturer income is only 10k per month, no bonus).  So, it is very important about why you want to do it. So, why you want to do it?
*
Well said and I glad you enjoy your trips smile.gif

For me, getting a phd is beyond financial rewards but rather getting closer to the truth, understand it, and be able to use it in a beneficial way.

Here's a little story for those who doesn't know economics. Less than 300 years ago, a chap named Adam Smith was combining philosophy and psychology (to form a new field, Economics study) and use it in the determination of national wealth (ie allocation of resources). He was kicked from his university as economics study simply didn't exist.

Less than 300 years later, we now acknowledged economics as a scientific knowledge, with great significance to human. Economics study is part of Nobel prize and his final book, The Wealth of Nations, is often considered to be one of the most influential book in human history, up there with Bible, Principia and I-Ching.

So for me, phd study may looks irrelevant to Business owners and general public. Doctorates often employed by researching bodies to carry out research as their daily works and these researches may look irrelevant to general public. However, these researches build the better future for us and knowing that gave me great energy to continue.

This post has been edited by ru40342: Jan 21 2015, 09:24 PM
juniortok
post Jan 22 2015, 10:16 AM

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QUOTE(cheahcw2003 @ Jan 20 2015, 10:12 PM)
what do u meant by accredited? By which body?

For my current university for example. some already get their theoretical framework ready, up to Methodology chapter, once they get the admission, they will start collecting data, so no surprise can do it within 2 or 2.5 years.

I also notice some PhD student register as part time student (so that they pay 50% fee), but work full time on his/her research so can get it done in short time, even enrolled as part time study mode, in order to save cost.
*
The accreditation bodies are AMBA, AACSB (I cant remember the last one). While I don't choose a school based on its accreditation, I was very skeptical with those without any. There were many advertisements in Hong Kong for DBA courses from various universities. Some say total costs of HK$200,000 to be completed within 2.5 years. etc (I have heard of that uni from Australia). Many similar cases. Besides my current school, I attended HK Poly U talk and they said that one cannot complete the course for less than 3 years because of the reasons I mentioned. I also know that another friend of mine who did the Phd of Finance with University of Melbourne, he also had the same problem. But I suppose you dont need to worry la. Your school is a good school.
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post Feb 2 2015, 09:39 AM

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The best reason for PhD is your curiosity to know something in deep.You create new KNOWLEDGE through the PhD process, which these knowledge is unique in the world. Not big knowledge as Newton and Einstein. It is normally small such as a better equation to calculate the velocity of flow in engineering or discover the pattern of currency change with low oil price in economic.

PhD developed two skills, which are SCIENTIFIC SKILL and TECHNICAL SKILL. Both skills are essential in the modern world. Once you put 'Dr' in front of your name, people will expect you are good in both skills. PhD bring you benefit in long term to carry 'Dr' as international title for life. You need times to digest the benefit of 'Dr'.

PhD will be very dissapinted to those aiming fpr instant benefit in term of money or fame. PhD is a long term investment as property. If you can flip in 2 or 3 years, it is good. Most peoples invest PhD for life.
cheahcw2003
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QUOTE(joshuawhlam @ Feb 2 2015, 09:39 AM)
The best reason for PhD is your curiosity to know something in deep.You create new KNOWLEDGE through the PhD process, which these knowledge is unique in the world. Not big knowledge as Newton and Einstein. It is normally small such as a better equation to calculate the velocity of flow in engineering or discover the pattern of currency change with low oil price in economic.

PhD developed two skills, which are SCIENTIFIC SKILL and TECHNICAL SKILL. Both skills are essential in the modern world. Once you put 'Dr' in front of your name, people will expect you are good in both skills. PhD bring you benefit in long term to carry 'Dr' as international title for life. You need times to digest the benefit of 'Dr'.

PhD will be very dissapinted to those aiming fpr instant benefit in term of money or fame. PhD is a long term investment as property. If you can flip in 2 or 3 years, it is good. Most peoples invest PhD for life.
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Well said
Cikgu Vanilla Strawberry
post Feb 26 2015, 05:53 PM

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In all of honesty, it should've been the ultimate long-years pursuit of knowledge.
It should, really.
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post Mar 16 2015, 11:25 PM

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on top of that, if i may add - get it from a good university, with good research centre and a good research supervisor. It makes a different.

a doctorate degree grad doesn't guarantee bright future, but it does make a good start in career, what lies ahead is unpredictable, you will still need to work it out, in most cases, more demanding, as ppl has pointed out in this thread, many expect more from one with the "Dr" in front of his name.

good luck.



QUOTE(joshuawhlam @ Feb 2 2015, 10:39 AM)
The best reason for PhD is your curiosity to know something in deep.You create new KNOWLEDGE through the PhD process, which these knowledge is unique in the world. Not big knowledge as Newton and Einstein. It is normally small such as a better equation to calculate the velocity of flow in engineering or discover the pattern of currency change with low oil price in economic.

PhD developed two skills, which are SCIENTIFIC SKILL and TECHNICAL SKILL. Both skills are essential in the modern world. Once you put 'Dr' in front of your name, people will expect you are good in both skills. PhD bring you benefit in long term to carry 'Dr' as international title for life. You need times to digest the benefit of 'Dr'.

PhD will be very dissapinted to those aiming fpr instant benefit in term of money or fame. PhD is a long term investment as property. If you can flip in 2 or 3 years, it is good. Most peoples invest PhD for life.
*
Farmer_C
post Apr 4 2015, 11:42 AM

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The only way one can survive a PhD in a quality programme is with passion and lots of support from your loved ones. Doing a PhD means you want to challenge yourself, learn and open more doors in your career. Anyone doing it for just money is kidding him/herself... cause the financial benefits you get are indirect and not instant per se.
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post Apr 8 2015, 06:51 PM

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It is my pleausre to share quotations in the book of "On being a scientist". PhD holders can claim themselves a scientist and being a responsible citizen in the Republic of Science.

Attached Image

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Geminist
post Apr 13 2015, 04:22 PM

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An opportunity came up recently on doing a PhD at one of the golden triangle. The research will be in an engineering / computation related subject.

There are a number of issues to consider, with funding being one of them because if I'm doing this, it'll be funded by my company possibly with supplements from EPSRC UK. I will most likely be working half the week, with another half working in the lab.

I already know my research topic (it'll be on the applied side) and the supervisor (we have collaborated together and produced joint papers) so I am still targeting a 3-4 years completion date.

What I can't decide is whether I should walk away from my current job (I am pretty nicely paid) and a good team, and will also require me to move back to UK (I'm currently in Australia).

My experience has always been in the industry, and I intend to remain in the industry. Not expecting a pay rise with a PhD, but wanted to do it because it'll open up doors for me in the really exciting stuff.

I am 30 years old currently with no commitment.

Welcome thoughts from those who have been through this process before. Many thanks!
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post Apr 13 2015, 08:54 PM

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QUOTE(Geminist @ Apr 13 2015, 04:22 PM)
An opportunity came up recently on doing a PhD at one of the golden triangle.  The research will be in an engineering / computation related subject. 

There are a number of issues to consider, with funding being one of them because if I'm doing this, it'll be funded by my company possibly with supplements from EPSRC UK.  I will most likely be working half the week, with another half working in the lab. 

I already know my research topic (it'll be on the applied side) and the supervisor (we have collaborated together and produced joint papers) so I am still targeting a 3-4 years completion date. 

What I can't decide is whether I should walk away from my current job (I am pretty nicely paid) and a good team, and will also require me to move back to UK (I'm currently in Australia).

My experience has always been in the industry, and I intend to remain in the industry.  Not expecting a pay rise with a PhD, but wanted to do it because it'll open up doors for me in the really exciting stuff. 

I am 30 years old currently with no commitment. 

Welcome thoughts from those who have been through this process before.  Many thanks!
*
Congrats on being given this opportunity. I can't imagine that this will be a simple decision to make. It's one of the reasons why I decided to do my PhD immediately after my undergraduate degree instead of working. My opportunity came and I chose to finish my formal education once and for all before venturing forth into work.

I'd say you should take this opportunity especially since you have no commitments. Not everyone is offered the chance to pursue a PhD. It will change the way you think as a person and in your career forever, like an evolution for the mind. As you have said yourself, it will open doors to many exciting things in your career or even outside of your career. No one should do a PhD expecting instant financial gratification but eventually it will repay you in full and more.

Pursue this PhD if you are really passionate about your field of work/study because it's not going to be easy juggling a career and your research. However, if you make it in the end, it will be worth it. Good luck!
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post Apr 20 2015, 12:43 AM

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QUOTE(Geminist @ Apr 13 2015, 04:22 PM)
An opportunity came up recently on doing a PhD at one of the golden triangle.  The research will be in an engineering / computation related subject. 

There are a number of issues to consider, with funding being one of them because if I'm doing this, it'll be funded by my company possibly with supplements from EPSRC UK.  I will most likely be working half the week, with another half working in the lab. 

I already know my research topic (it'll be on the applied side) and the supervisor (we have collaborated together and produced joint papers) so I am still targeting a 3-4 years completion date. 

What I can't decide is whether I should walk away from my current job (I am pretty nicely paid) and a good team, and will also require me to move back to UK (I'm currently in Australia).

My experience has always been in the industry, and I intend to remain in the industry.  Not expecting a pay rise with a PhD, but wanted to do it because it'll open up doors for me in the really exciting stuff. 

I am 30 years old currently with no commitment. 

Welcome thoughts from those who have been through this process before.  Many thanks!
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1) If you have intention to put PhD as an experience in life, please go ahead when you have no commitment. You may find your true one in university. I interviewed an 38 years old American recently. He started from bachelor degree, master and now PhD after many years of working. The older you are, the chances to do a PhD is lower due to high salary and commitment.
2) Talk to your company to remain your position and relate your research to the current position if there is a conncetion. Three years are not long. I believe you will have new life after 3 years, and you may not need the position normally.
3) You must use full strength to complete your PhD. If you bring hesistation into your study, you may end up with a failure in first year differentiation. PhD is like fragmentating your brain as hardisk to increase your brain power. Process is challenging, but you will find new way to see the world after completion.
4) If you like your current life so much, look for another funding to do a part-time PhD in Australia.

I remember I am so excited when being offer a sholarship last time. Congrats.

 

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