Why Academia?
If you are someone who loves learning, generating new ideas, and setting your own agenda you may want to seriously consider pursuing a doctorate degree. While most corporate professionals can make their mark in a field, those in academia have the opportunity to influence both the educational and the corporate sectors. Click here to find out how Academia can help your Work/Life Balance.
I have been in Corporate America for more than 10 years. Is it too late to consider pursuing a career as a College or University professor?
Not at all! Many of the Ph.D.’s, who have come through My ABD Network, have done so after spending a significant period of time in another career. Doctoral students come in all ages – from recent college graduates to mid-career professionals. Click here to read about making the switch to academia after an extensive corporate career.
Is My ABD Network a doctoral program?
No. My ABD Network is a peer support and informational network for African-Americans, Hispanic-Americans and Native Americans (U.S. citizens or permanent U.S. residents) who are interested in getting a doctorate. My ABD Network is comprised of current doctoral students, MY ABD Network alumni, and My ABD Network coaches (all of whom have a doctorate and experience teaching at a major college or university) who help provide access to information and resources about doctoral studies in several areas.
How can My ABD Network help me learn about getting a doctorate?
Take advantage of the information contained in this website – be inspired by the Real World Success stories, read about My ABD Network in the News, and apply to become member of the My ABD Network.
Do I need an MBA to enter a doctoral program?
No. An MBA degree is not required for admission to doctoral programs. Only a Bachelor’s degree is required.Visit Alternate Paths to a Doctorate to learn about the various approaches to getting your Doctorate.
Is the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) required for admission to a doctoral program?
Yes, the GMAT is required for admission to doctoral programs. For more information visit their website at: www.gmat.org.
How can I better prepare for the challenge of a Doctoral Program?
New York Universities’ Stern School of Business offers a Pre-Doctoral program, designed specifically for underrepresented minority students who are seeking to enroll in a Ph.D. program in Business at any university. For more information, visit their website at: http://w4.stern.nyu.edu/phd/predoctorial.cfm?doc_id=2873.
When are applications for most doctoral programs due?
Applications for most doctoral programs are due in January, and offers of admission are usually announced in March.
Where can I find samples of a Statement of Purpose (SoP)?
Visit www.statementofpurpose.com for information and advice on developing a winning SoP.
Can I do a Ph.D. program part-time, or on-line and still participate in My ABD Network?
Yes. Ideally, if you are seriously considering teaching at the university level as a tenure-track professor, you should attend a full-time doctoral program at an accredited business school. Student enrolled in part-time and on-line programs which are accredited are eligible for membership in the My ABD Network.
What costs are associated with pursuing a Doctorate degree?
Unlike undergraduate and graduate schools, most doctoral programs waive tuition and fees. In addition, almost all doctoral granting institutions offer compensated research and or teaching assistantships. Although My ABD Network does not offer any funding to doctoral students, additional sources of funding can be obtained from private foundations and government agencies.