Motivations for Pursuing Doctoral Education in Non-Elite Universities: A Qualitative Study in China

• In Event: Research in Progress Roundtable Session 2
  In Invited Roundtable: Higher Education in International Contexts: Understanding Pandemic Responses,  Distance Learning, and Institutional Practices (Table 15)

Abstract

While extensive research exists for doctoral experience and career paths, less is known about the initial motives for starting a PhD. In this study,27 PhD students and holders from Chinese non-elite university were interviewed about their reasons for embarking on the doctorate. The data reveal that PhDs have totally different motivations for doctoral study, and they pursuing doctoral education is more of a symbol of status and a way to find a stable job. They may not necessarily have a strong interest in research, and many students hope to obtain a doctoral degree to secure a stable job. This study provides insights into the motivations of doctoral students in China and highlights the importance of doctoral education for ethnic development.

Author

• Hanyu Qin, University of Hong Kong