What is a PhD Program Like? | Milestones & Timelines

If you're seeing this video right after it's posted, be sure to check out my livestream on Sunday 2/21!

As part of my series on PhD student advice, so what IS a PhD anyway - what are the components and milestones, and how long does it take to complete a PhD? A brief tour through the structure of a PhD, including:

00:00 Welcome!
00:47 What is a PhD?
04:30 Preliminary/Qualifying Exams
08:13 Dissertation Proposal
11:11 Dissertation Writing
14:00 Dissertation Defense

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[Stephanie-A]

I really like how you presented the PhD program and the refreshing energy you're putting into it. I will be starting my PhD this September and I am excited about this learning journey I will be having.

[Gnina]

Hi Casey! Thanks for your videos. The information you share is always helpful! I have a PhD admission offer (I am really happy!) and I want to thank you for your work in youtube.

[natashagates]

I LOVE my PhD program. It’s awesome compared to the masters stage because it’s all about learning everything I’ve ever wanted to know about everything I’m passionate and interested in.

[Jay-efii]

I like this video from A to Z. Learned a lot. You simplified the process. I am so glad that this was direct. I don't think I would have received this type of information from a local educator (in my area). Ms. Fiesler, you take out the bunny so easy from Out Of The Hat. Yes, I say this with humility but I got accepted into a Ph.D. program. July 19, 2021, Monday.

[Jubair]

Great to see more PhD youtubers! We need more like us.

[wisdomofthecosmos]

Hi, professor Fiesler! My name is Holly, and please allow me to show you my utmost gratitude to you, for the information you provide us really light a torch to the people who’s on this uncertain path to PhD, including me. Through your videos, I realize PhD is not just a degree, but an important role that has the responsibility to advance human knowledge in our society. I’m so inspired. I wanna become an economics PhD in the future; after watching your channel, I feel surer and surer that I want to stick to this road. I would love to explore the boundaries of knowledge. Thank you so much for helping us!

[talhaminhasvlogs]

Hi Casey! Love your videos, they are a motivation for me and help me answer so many questions. Keep them coming :)

[taura]

Thanks for making this video, it’s really helpful!

[Mubarakaahshakirah]

10:28 i really appreciate the insight made here

[jhamdan]

Is it wise to start the viva voce by saying "here is my work, give me my PhD"?

[so_so_online]

Your videos are so helpful! Could you make a video about choosing between programs in different disciplines? I’ve applied and been accepted to PhD programs in two disciplines and I know the fields are super different but it’s proving to be a hard choice!

[hamodeykadrya]

Hello Casey, thank you for the informative content. I want to ask you, does not having previous publications has a major impact on the phd application? Because i see this section in almost all phd applications, and it feels like you lose some advantage among other candidates if you leave it empty.

[Mubarakaahshakirah]

Hello. I have a proposal defense next month. I have no idea what to expect. Any tips on how to prepare? I’d really appreciate your help Dr. Casey!

[eddieibarra]

Hi Casey I am planning to work on a master's after I receive my bachelor's, however I can't work on a Ph.d, a master's is the highest I could work I know with a master's I could be a college professor and lecture. The bottom line I want to be a communication professor teaching at a university and a community college.

[natashagates]

My main goal is to become a professor. ❤

[fatimaad]

Hi Casey... you have said that being good at school does not mean you are a good researcher. my question is how can we change the way of thinking from learning to create new stuff. How to get the mentality of a researcher, is it something you can learn??

[lisajlamb]

What if your chair and committee members are not helpful? I feel like I'm blinded in a dark forest, trying to find my way ...

[umeshamedhavi]

Hi Casey! Thank you for sharing these valuable opinions with us. You are such a motivator.You are very interesting professor. Can I be your student? Computer Studies specialized and more interested on Human computer Iteraction. I do have a proposal too.

[djangowilliams]

All followers are now thirsting for a video on snake fight