Doing a doctoral degree is a unique possibility to intensively study a single topic. That is why choosing the right topic is very important: Make sure the topic really interests you! That way, you time in doctoral studies enables you to recquire very specialized knowledge.
If you are thinking about a career in science you have to do a PhD. A PhD is the requirement for every scientific career, whether at a university or any other research institute. Even for a career in a research department in a company a PhD is important.
During your doctoral studies you acquire competences you need for a career in science:
- You make experiences in project management.
- You learn how to write down your results in a way they can be published.
- You learn how to present your results at conferences.
- You often learn how to teach, too.
In engineering, the title is still relevant when it comes to your salary. The reason is that a doctoral degree guarantees specialized knowledge (see reason #1), thus you will not have many competitors for the same job.
In the course of your doctoral studies the University of Stuttgart offers you different ways of continuous education. You are allowed to participate in an exclusive program. Get more information on the GRADUS homepage.
During your doctoral studies you are still a member of University. You can enroll as a doctoral student and as such you still have the advantages of a student. Continuing university life might also give you more time to think abour your career.
If you are happy in a university environment, this point will be of importance to you. However, be careful! The reasons listed under #5 should NOT be the only reasons for doing your PhD. Without genuine interest in scientific work you will not successfully complete you PhD.
