Advice on Doctoral decision

[ibrahimfize]

Hello everyone,

I am a mid-career professional at the State Department and recently received offers to pursue doctoral programs on a part-time basis at two institutions in the DMV area fully funded. I am pursuing a doctorate for strategic career reasons, and while teaching as an adjunct is a potential goal, it remains secondary.

The two programs I am considering are:

1. PhD in Governance and Globalization at Virginia Tech’s School of Public and International Affairs, Arlington campus.
2. Doctorate in Statecraft and National Security (with a focus on economic statecraft and Asia) at the Institute of World Politics.

I am currently undecided about which path to take. On one hand, Virginia Tech is prestigious, and the Governance and Globalization program offers flexibility. However, I am concerned about the potential time to completion, which may exceed five years for 60 credits (30 course credits and 30 dissertation credits). For context, the program requires 90 credits in total, but I have already transferred 30 credits from my master’s degree.

On the other hand, the Institute of World Politics seems highly specialized and focused on the D.C. area, without a broad national or international presence. I am unsure how a degree from such an institution would be perceived, especially if I pursue adjunct teaching in the future.

About me:

• Defense Trade Control at the State Department
• Sanctions Officer at Deloitte
• Financial Crimes Investigator at Wells Fargo

I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights regarding which program might best align with my career objectives.

Thank you in advance for your guidance.

 

Edited May 13 by ibrahimfize