I am currently enrolled on an MSC but i have been thinking about starting a PHD in the new year instead of MSC. They are both forensic courses
I have some questions.
I undertaking a PHD it is over a long period of time but what is the job market like for PHD students? I am feeling that in some aspects I may get the 'Over Qualified' statement or you are a career student with no real world experience.
Can anyone give advice on the subject. If you have recently got a PHD and what was the job market like for yourself.
Also, are there many companies that would employ somone during a PHD if it was a part time PHD?
Thank you
I am not sure, but generally do you not require a MSc or an equivalent before you embark on a PhD?
I know at RHUL that some of my classmates went on to do the PhD. Aren't PhDs more into research than actually doing 'real world' work?
My recollection of the RHUL situation was that the PhD was a full time commitment so I would think that employment at the same time would be difficult.
A PhD is never a bad thing to have, and certainly can only enhance your credibility if testifying as an expert in the particular area of speciality in which you do a PhD.
However in my experience (at least in the context of my country), experience still comes out tops, and when coupled with qualifications are even better.
For example, in my agency, we require our senior examiners/analysts to have at least a postgraduate qualification in digital/computer forensics, with at least one approved certification (currently CFCE of GCFA), and a minimum of 6 years full time digital forensics experience, coupled with testifying experience in this field.
Hope this helps.
I would get the MSc then think about a PHD later, you may not even enjoy forensics.