Is it even possible to work full-time while pursuing a PhD?

[cathbuzz]

I'm about halfway through a Master's in applied anthropology and am actually working full-time at a site that is directly related to the research area in which I am writing my Master's thesis. I want to pursue my PhD, but I don't want to leave this awesome job. Also, my husband would not want me to leave this awesome job, so there's the family to think of.

I know that many disciplines construct PhD programs that do allow for concurrent work, but I've never heard of such a thing in Anthropology. Am I dreaming?

[Distant Wizard]

You have to check with your institution, but I know that my program explicitly prohibits working during my PhD. And, in all honesty, I can't imagine trying to juggle a full time job with how many things the department expects me to show up to and participate in. Sorry I can't be more helpful but to say that you need to ask wherever it is you go for PhD, but its not very common.

[far_to_go]

In my program, it's not possible to work full time outside the department. There are rules against it, but even if there weren't, I can't imagine that anyone would actually be able to pull it off! 60-70 hours of work per week of coursework/teaching/research is the norm around here, so throwing a full-time job on top of that just wouldn't be feasible.

Your program may allow it, but I doubt that it's the norm at most programs. Good luck to you.

[theancient1]

You may be able to find some UK schools who are willing to work with you on a limited residency program. I've seen some schools that only require one year of residency before letting you loose (more likely if you already have a Masters) and some that require 3 years of coursework (Emory).

I would like to know about this too. If I were starting over and had this figured out when I was 23, this would not be an issue and would be preferable. Since I have attached life responsibilities and less time for new career building, it becomes more of an issue.

If you are younger and free to move, take the plunge.

[Rendar]

Early in your PhD career, no. Well, there are always ways but I really wouldn't recommend it.

It all comes down to the individual program and their requirements but if you hope to bash through coursework and comps as quickly as possible then you'll probably need to free yourself up from full time work.

Or go crazy

Even getting a job after being ABD can really hinder your final progress. It's hard to come home after a full day of work and sit at the computer/research for another 4/5 hours.