Getting a PhD takes a lot of work. Not only do you have to spend years longer than someone who stops at a bachelor's degree, but you have to do a thesis and research projects to show your understanding and ability to put your knowledge of the subject to work in the field. The hard work and difficulty of attaining a PhD can create great pride in the achievement. Not only will your parents and relatives be proud of you, but you will be proud of yourself.
The more time that is spent on a topic, the more knowledge you will gain about that subject. Research projects done for doctoral programs help students gain and exhibit knowledge on a deeper level. If you are committed to the subject you are studying, gaining more knowledge can be both helpful and exciting. Doctoral programs teach students how to conduct complex research and report it in a professional manner. Those who obtain the degree have the fundamental knowledge and skills to succeed in their chosen fields.
With higher education comes greater financial opportunities. Because people with a PhD have an advanced knowledge of their subject, they usually attain higher-paying careers in fields such as physics, medicine, pharmacology and technology. While a person's salary also depends on title and job experience, education can mean the difference between a living and a comfortable living. In 2009, according to MeasuringUsability, having a PhD meant a 17 percent higher salary in some industries, even without experience.
Working on something with passion for years, as PhD candidates do, shows great dedication. Most employers will look at your dedication as a big plus for future employment. Dr. Kelin Kuhn, an Intel Corporation engineer, says students with PhDs consistently demonstrate "an ability to commit to challenging, long term projects." Attaining a PhD also requires creative thinking and excellent communication skills. This combinations of skills and commitment appeals to potential employers seeking people for complex projects. For companies like Intel, people with a PhD generally have more and better opportunities for high-paying jobs.