Changing Programs

[Soc-brioche]

Hi there,

I am currently a second year student in a Sociology PhD program, and I am thinking of applying to other programs this fall. I know switching programs isn't easy, and it can be tricky getting the recommendations you need from professors without offending them or tipping off the entire department that you're thinking of leaving. Hence, I could really use some advice from you wise, friendly folks on how to navigate this process!

Briefly, my reasons for leaving: The department and the program are not what I expected or hoped for. On the plus side, there are several really great, supportive faculty members who I work with or have taken classes with, and I love my fellow grad students. However, I've had some really negative experiences with a few tenured faculty and am shocked and dissatisfied with how students are treated in general. Worse still, the powers that be in the department are pushing the program and students in a direction that just doesn't fit with what I want in a program. Also, importantly, my interests are moving in a direction that's not represented in my department.

Has anyone out there on the GC forum successfully switched PhD programs, or have any insights into how to do this tactfully? If anyone has advice on how I should approach professors with the news that I'm applying elsewhere and for recommendation letters, I would so appreciate it!

Thanks!

Soc-brioche

[2400]

I looked into this briefly not too long ago because I have been having a horrible time with my supervisor and wanted to look into my options. In my case, I have one year left of my PhD -- basically just writing up. I emailed a few other PhD programs and one wrote back and told me I could not switch into their program as it has a cohort structure. Another program wouldn't allow me to enter at this point without taking additional classes. I recommend emailing programs you are interested to see what would be involved in switching.

I should also mention that a good friend of mine at my university switched PhD programs -- he was in one previously for one year before 'upgrading' to the program he is in now (he is getting a much better stipend and his current program is in the top 5). Interestingly, this past school year he applied once again to another PhD program because his research project totally fell through (he is in the sciences) -- he did gain acceptance and another generous stipend offer at university #3 but in the end decided to stay where he is at, but he did switch supervisors and projects. Also -- I used to work in a research related position and many of my co-workers had PhD's and many had worked in academia -- one of these co-workers told me that people do switch programs. So...while it seems to be a difficult process, it's not unheard of.

In my case, I have decided against trying to change programs. I have an advisor, not my academic supervisor, but more of a general advisor, who is helping me through the process of getting a second supervisor. I am hoping this helps me get through my (hopefully!) final year.

If you do end up applying to other programs, I'm not sure how you would deal with letters of recommendation without offending your current supervisor. If you are close with another professor and think you may be able to explain your situation and reason for applying elsewhere, that could work. You could also just get recommendations from your previous degree program. If you have worked in your field previously -- you could get a professional reference.

Edited July 13, 2011 by 2400

[Soc-brioche]

Hi 2400,

Thanks for your reply. There is so little information out there on switching programs, it seems like no one ever actually does it. Not offending my current advisor is a pretty tricky thing. I may need to do as you suggest and get recs from my undergrad Soc professors and thesis advisor, who wrote my original recommendation letters. I've heard rumors that programs that transfer students apply to will sometimes call their current programs and talk to their advisors to make sure they're not trouble students or being kicked out for some reason. So, I'm a little nervous he (my advisor) might find out from someone else before me.

In any case, I appreciate your insight.

Thanks again,

Soc-b

I looked into this briefly not too long ago because I have been having a horrible time with my supervisor and wanted to look into my options. In my case, I have one year left of my PhD -- basically just writing up. I emailed a few other PhD programs and one wrote back and told me I could not switch into their program as it has a cohort structure. Another program wouldn't allow me to enter at this point without taking additional classes. I recommend emailing programs you are interested to see what would be involved in switching.

I should also mention that a good friend of mine at my university switched PhD programs -- he was in one previously for one year before 'upgrading' to the program he is in now (he is getting a much better stipend and his current program is in the top 5). Interestingly, this past school year he applied once again to another PhD program because his research project totally fell through (he is in the sciences) -- he did gain acceptance and another generous stipend offer at university #3 but in the end decided to stay where he is at, but he did switch supervisors and projects. Also -- I used to work in a research related position and many of my co-workers had PhD's and many had worked in academia -- one of these co-workers told me that people do switch programs. So...while it seems to be a difficult process, it's not unheard of.

In my case, I have decided against trying to change programs. I have an advisor, not my academic supervisor, but more of a general advisor, who is helping me through the process of getting a second supervisor. I am hoping this helps me get through my (hopefully!) final year.

If you do end up applying to other programs, I'm not sure how you would deal with letters of recommendation without offending your current supervisor. If you are close with another professor and think you may be able to explain your situation and reason for applying elsewhere, that could work. You could also just get recommendations from your previous degree program. If you have worked in your field previously -- you could get a professional reference.