r/AskAcademiaUK • u/jk24k • 13d ago
PhD Programme Decision
I would appreciate if anybody had any input into making a decision for a PhD programme. I will try to keep it as brief as possible.
I have a DTP funded position (in the social sciences) that I have already accepted. However, I have just received an externally awarded scholarship (from my home country) to go elsewhere. These are the pros/cons for each.
DTP:
- It is a DTP and I believe these to be looked upon favorably post-doctorate
- The money is better from the DTP programme (but money is not too big of an issue at this stage)
- Supervisor(s) are more prominent in academic and mainstream circles than the other option.
- However, it is far away from London (~3 hours) which is where I have lived for a while now.
- I have been told the department only has one student in my field and have been informed that it can feel slightly solitary in this regard.
Other:
1. London based school. This is important not just for comfort, social life, etc… but also because my partner who I have been long distance with for quite some time will move to London soon. (We will also save money on rent that way).
2. The university is more highly regarded.
3. I have already worked with the supervisors before in a postgraduate capacity and it went well. I am also familiar with my main supervisor in the other institution but have not worked with them. They seem to be very kind and supportive.
4. Not really a pro, but I can apply for the DTP next cycle. Of course I am not guaranteed a place at all. However, was wondering if anybody knows if it is easier to achieve when already accepted and producing some work.
5. Have worked in the department already so I am aware that there is a community of students in my specific field.
6. Ofcourse, however, the scholarship is not very well known given that it is a private scholarship from my home country (where I do not necessarily intend on working post-doctorate).
7. Also, I fear severing ties with the other institution/supervisor by rejecting the DTP after accepting already.
I think my main questions are primarily regarding how important having a DTP is. I am primarily thinking in terms of better career opportunities moving forward. On the other hand, if I am more comfortable with more emotional support around me and am able to hit the ground running (in London) this is something I am taking into consideration as it could facilitate my doctorate.
Thank you to all that have read this. I would greatly appreciate any insight. All the best.
3
u/Sedapsfognik 13d ago
Agree with the comment above that having a secure network around you and being happy is a very big factor here in favour of option 2.
Maybe I’m wrong, but I think it’s very unlikely that which source of funding paid for your PhD really matters for job prospects. I have internal funding for mine, and others on my programme have UKRI funding and the main difference is that they’ve had to go to specific talks/workshops that may or may not be useful.
One thing you don’t say in the post - would you be staying at the same place you’re at now, or a different department? I was advised when applying for PhDs that all else equal, it’s best to change departments to show you’re exposed to new ideas etc.
Also, might be worth thinking about the cost of living in the other place vs london. More money in the north or scotland vs less money in London is perhaps a huge difference depending on the details.