Off the tenure track: experiences of PhD graduates in academic administrative positions. (3rd July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ewing-Cooper, Allison; Gallien, Kathryn N.
• Is Part Of: Perspectives. Volume 26:Number 3(2022)
• Page Start: 102
• Page End: 108
• Publication Date: 2022-07-03
• Subjects: Academic administration -- career planning -- doctoral education -- qualitative methods; Universities and colleges -- Great Britain -- Administration -- Periodicals; 378.1010941
• DOI: 10.1080/13603108.2021.2012720
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-3108

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Advice for PhD graduates seeking to leave academia has proliferated over the last decade, but little attention has been paid to those who continue to work in universities in administrative positions. This study employs a phenomenological qualitative approach to explore the lived experiences of twelve people with PhDs who have taken this alternative career path. Although participants expressed satisfaction with their careers, they also revealed that they faced obstacles to obtaining administrative positions because of misconceptions about the value and purpose of a PhD. The study concludes with policy recommendations for universities and avenues for future research.