Does anyone know of consultants who have switched to getting a PhD? Is it difficult to get into a PhD program from consulting?

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Most of my college friends went into PhD programs and academia after undergrad and we talk a lot about the lifestyle and work. “Easier” is relative I suppose; I’ve always been one to excel in academic settings but never really feel like I figured out the corporate culture, I’m still very much just “faking it” in consulting. I also perform much better when I have control over my work and it’s a subject I’m passionate about. I die a little inside every time I have to draft a RAID log or project plan. I’ve had some good projects in consulting where I really to pour my heart and soul into it and it feels effortless, but those opportunities are few and far between. If I could dedicate my career to intellectually stimulating problem solving in a field I’m passionate about it would never feel like work for me

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True. There aren’t a lot of positions like that though. You are essentially threading the needle into a very specific position. I’m not trying to dissuade you in the least. I just think you have to realize that the # of C-suite positions that require a terminal technical degree are limited.

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What makes you think academia is easier than consulting? Not saying it’s not true just curious about how that decision was reached?

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I am considering it as a kind of “retirement” once I make enough money in consulting to live comfortably off my investments and hypothetical stipend . Not that a life in academia is easy but it would be easier than consulting and I’d get to pursue something I’m truly passionate about. My plan is still very half-baked so I’ll probably reevaluate in 5ish years

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I know a C who left Consulting to do a PhD. They never wanted a career in Consulting so the couple of years they worked in Consulting was purely to make money and have a financial cushion.

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I know multiple people who went from economic consulting to do PhDs in finance, economics, marketing, etc.

Also, lol @ academia being “easy,” at least if you intend to publish and get tenure.

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OP, I totally get you! I’m also passionate about research and have unexpectedly found consulting projects to be more managerial/maintenance-based rather than requiring critical thinking about subject matter. I’m also considering doing a PhD (corporate life isn’t for me). Consulting def adds value to your resume, but does not seem to prep you for a PhD - PhD programs primarily require research experience. Consider jumping into a research masters firsts - this will significantly boost your chances. Kick butt and especially learn key research methodologies. A masters will also help you determine if you want to go into academia full time. PhD programs are definitely not “easier” than consulting - they are quite strenuous, unpredictable, and at times isolating. However, I agree with you that it seems far more rewarding.

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I’ve been researching Chief Scientific Officer roles / VP of research roles at pharma companies and it seems like you need a PhD to get there

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I’m not sure that many have done that. The ROI just isn’t there. I have considered it but my pay post PhD would be significantly less than it is currently.

Again disclaimer that my plan is very half baked and I have definitely not done the appropriate diligence. I also have a few other “retirement” ideas and will continue to weigh the pros/cons as I gather income and experience in consulting

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