How long does it take to get a PhD?

Abstract

As part of their most recent strategic plan, the South African Department of Science and Technology have proposed that the training of PhD students should be the ‘driver’ to propel South Africa into a knowledge economy. The intention here is to drive significant economic growth in the country. I support this vision wholeheartedly. However, the length of time it takes for students to get degrees has become a strong point of contention, with higher education institutions seriously challenged to increase their throughput rates. As a deputy dean in a science faculty I am regularly engaged in discussions regarding throughput rates at many levels within the university at which I am employed. An important first step in this discussion is to realise that initiatives to improve throughput rates for bachelor’s degrees will be different to those needed for postgraduate degrees.