Doctorate: Finding Your Way
‘This book is an extremely welcome development for a wide range of healthcare professionals who are considering applying for a doctoral course. Whether it's a PhD or a professional doctorate, or for those who are already undertaking doctoral studies. To have access to a book that relates to experiences of a range of healthcare professionals, including podiatrists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses, midwives, speech and language therapists, orthoptists and radiographers will be a huge benefit to all those involved or considering being involved in doctoral studies. The book will also give new insights into the doctoral experience to experienced researchers and doctoral supervisors.
The book consists of two sections. The first section includes 13 chapters based on Dr. Janet Deane's personal doctoral experience and journey, including her extensive doctoral process and key learning points. In section two, Janet interviews a range of very experienced healthcare professionals. The focus of each interview is unique and is very valuable, adding depth and validity to the author's personal reflections. The chapters in both sections provide exceptional useful and interesting information, which can be drawn upon by those considering doctoral studies, doctoral students, and research supervisors in all the health professional fields.
Reading through the book made me reflect on my own doctoral experience full stop. I registered for a PhD in 1981 and at that time I was only the sixth physiotherapist to register for a PhD. Those were the early research days for all our professions then! I would have been delighted to have had access to a book like this during my doctoral process.
This book is very accessible to everyone across the healthcare professions. The range of experiences shared in the book will certainly enhance the reflections of those involved in research and doctoral supervision activities through the encouragement of readers' personal reflections on their previous and or current research activities. The book also provides a wide range of tips that may help in making decisions and planning the way forward.
The book is an easy read, and those who have a heavy workload don't have to read the whole book at the same time. Choose one chapter that is most relevant to you at a time and read it through. You can pick up other chapters at other times to suit your availability as they become relevant.
The novelty of this book comes from the aspects pertaining to the doctoral process that are not always included in other books. For example, being a parent or carer while carrying out your doctorate, career planning, celebrating success, and sharing your experiences for the benefit of the next generation. All of these areas are of great importance for future, professional/research activities.
The whole book is an excellent read, and I believe will be immensely helpful for all those thinking of taking up doctoral studies. Many congratulations, Janet, on the formulation and completion of this very welcome book. Also, congratulations to all those who were interviewed. I am sure all of the information published in this book will be extremely helpful and fulfilling for all its readers.’
Ann P. Moore, CBE, PHD, MCSP, Grad Dip Phys, FCSP, Cert Ed, FMACP, FHEA, Professor Emerita, University of Brighton, Eastbourne, East Sussex, UK.
Coaching and Writing resources available to you at The Academic Coach Space:
If you are navigating your postgraduate journey (Pre-doc, MSc, PhD, Post-doc) and would like to explore bespoke coaching and/or writing support, why not reach out for a free consultation (with no commitment) by simply clicking the button below.
We’re here to partner with you, offering a non-judgmental, safe and confidential space to thrive and realise your potential.
