Why don't more ICT students do PhDs?

Abstract

Compared to many other disciplines, ICT has relat ively few students choosing to continue into doctoral studies. We have explored some of the perceived barriers to undertaking doctoral studies in ICT in three Australian universities. Current students were surveyed to establish their post-course intentions regarding employment and further study. Their reasons for not choosing to go onto research degrees were linked largely to concerns about the financial implications of such study and a limited understanding of what research in ICT involves. We recommend that ICT students be given accurate informat ion about the costs involved, that students have authentic undergraduate experiences of research, and that smooth pathways be developed to allow students to return to doctoral studies after working in industry.