I took the huge step the next stage of my quest for educational enrichment yesterday by calling Walden University to inquire about their PhD in Applied Management and Decision Sciences.  Some might not consider calling and asking for information as a big step, but I believe it to be a huge step.  The fact that I did it tells me that deep down inside I really want to follow through with it.  I have been on the fence for so long and could not make up my mind.  Actually making contact was a big step for me.

From what I can tell thus far is that the program is usually about 4 years in length.  Some people do it a little quicker and some take longer.  The good thing is that some of my credits from Norwich University will transfer in and eliminate the need to take some of the core courses in the program.  This will knock off a year from the original schedule.  That brings it down to three years.  This is more manageable for me.  It’s twice as long as my MBA and does put some things into a time/space perspective.

If I had no transfer credits, the program would cost over $70,000 when it’s all over.  That’s about as much as my undergrad and MBA combined.  Ouch!  My tuition will be somewhat less if I am able to transfer some credits into the program.  That’s a lot of money.  But I hope I can get a teaching position somewhere to help cover those costs.  I think that’s what I ultimately want to do.

The next class (after my MBA graduation) starts September 7.  I will have about three month off between degree programs.  Perhaps the reality and gravity of what I am facing will kick in during those three months.  Maybe not.  We shall see what happens.

I will process some thoughts and share at a later time.  If anyone has a PhD, I would appreciate some feedback on this potential journey.  I like to go into situations like this with as much information as I can get my hands on.