Pursuing 2 PhDs Simultaneously: Questions and Advice Needed

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In summary, the individual is currently in a Physics PhD program and is considering pursuing another PhD in electrical engineering. They have already taken two electrical engineering classes and their advisor is very supportive. However, they are hesitant to express their ambitions to avoid offending the department, as they have received a generous stipend for their current research project. They have asked for advice on how to initiate this plan, how to talk to their advisor, and how to plan for submitting their plan of study in a year's time. They also have questions about using classes for credits in both programs, the expected additional time for the EE PhD, potential difficulties, and dealing with politics and funding from the department. The individual has not been able to find much information on pursuing two
  • #1
kesdiq
1
0
Hello.

I am in the Physics PhD program and thinking of of doing another PhD in electrical engineering. There is some overlap in our coursework and i have taken 2 electrical engineering class this semester.

This is my first semester in the department and my advisor likes me a lot.
I have not expressed my ambitions in fear of offending my department since they have given me a generous stipend to work on a research project.

TO make it worse, I asked around and never heard of anyone in my school who has done 2 PhDs at one time.
How do I initiate this?

a) how do i talk to my advisor? i have to submit my plan of study in about 1 year's time and wonder how should be planning for this. once the POS is submitted, any changes have be approved by the dean. hence, i need to reveal my ambitions before a year is up.

b) will I be able to use some classes for the credits for both programs? how do i go about starting 2 PhD?

c) how much extra time must i expect to spend on the EE phd? i am thinking 1 more extra year for the dissertation.

d) what are some difficulties i am expected to encounter?

e) will I have to deal with the politics from the graduate advisory committee?

f) will the department try to remove my funding?
I will really really appreciate any opinions. I have tried searching many places but didn't get any information.
Thanks Katherine
 
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  • #2
It won't happen, it doesn't even make sense to do it.
 
  • #3
Through my searches in google I found only one scholar (so far) who did get two PhDs pretty much at the same time from two different places in different departments, though her speciality in both seems to be the same, quantum computation.

I do wonder how she pulled that off and still be sane (or is she?).
So it's possible.
 
  • #4
This is a very worrying thread, since it is clear that you have no idea what a PhD involves. I don't see why anyone would want, or need, to do two PhD's, let alone at the same time.
 
  • #5
You're probably not even allowed to, notwithstanding the total infeasibility of the proposition in the first place just due to the number of hours in the day (assuming you like to sleep).
 
  • #6
fss said:
You're probably not even allowed to, notwithstanding the total infeasibility of the proposition in the first place just due to the number of hours in the day (assuming you need to sleep).

Fixed :approve:
 

FAQ: Pursuing 2 PhDs Simultaneously: Questions and Advice Needed

Can I pursue two PhDs simultaneously?

Yes, it is possible to pursue two PhDs at the same time. However, it requires a significant amount of dedication, time management, and support from your advisors and institutions.

What are the benefits of pursuing two PhDs simultaneously?

Pursuing two PhDs simultaneously can provide a unique and diverse educational experience, broaden your knowledge and skill set, and potentially increase your job opportunities or academic credentials.

What are the challenges of pursuing two PhDs simultaneously?

The main challenges include managing a heavy workload and balancing responsibilities between two programs, potential conflicts between research topics and advisors, and potential financial and time constraints.

How can I manage my time effectively while pursuing two PhDs?

It is important to have a clear and organized schedule, prioritize tasks, and communicate effectively with your advisors and institutions. It may also be helpful to seek guidance from others who have successfully pursued two PhDs simultaneously.

Do I need to have a specific academic background to pursue two PhDs simultaneously?

While having a strong academic background in both fields of study is ideal, it is not always necessary. Some programs may require certain prerequisites, so it is important to research and plan accordingly. It is also helpful to have a strong passion and motivation for both fields of study.

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