Pursuing a PhD in Business After a Master's and Bachelor's in Aerospace Engineering

Are you considering pursuing a PhD in business, but you hold a master's and bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering? The answer is that it is indeed possible, though it may require significant planning and preparation. This path has been taken by many professionals within companies, who have successfully transitioned to advanced degrees in fields such as Business Administration, Doctor of Management (DM), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Is It Feasible?

Ultimately, the feasibility of pursuing a PhD in business after already having a bachelor's and master's degree in aerospace engineering depends on a variety of factors. These factors include the specific PhD program, the university's admissions criteria, and your personal situation.

The General Rule

According to the general rule for advanced degrees, anyone can apply for a graduate degree in a field other than their undergraduate degree. However, there are some important requirements to consider:

Students may need to complete certain requirements, even entire undergraduate courses to meet the new field's prerequisites. Each university reserves the right to extend, change, or redefine these requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to directly ask the admissions office or the relevant department at the university you are considering. Some universities and departments have significantly different policies in this regard. For example, at MIT, two departments I am familiar with have notably different policies regarding this requirement.

Advice from Experienced Professionals

One of the best sources for concrete advice is the admissions office at your desired college or university. They can provide you with detailed information on the specific requirements and guidelines for your chosen program.

Additionally, reaching out to the department of the desired program can give you a clearer picture of the transition process from aerospace engineering to business studies. Many professionals who have made this transition share that the experience can be both challenging and rewarding.

Why Not?

There are several reasons why this path is not advisable:

Additional Coursework

The student may be required to complete certain undergraduate courses to meet the prerequisites for the business program. This can extend the duration of your studies and increase financial burden.

Departmental Policies

Each university and department has its own set of requirements and policies. Requiring you to complete additional coursework can be cumbersome and may not align with your career objectives.

Changing Curriculum

The requirements and policies can change, making it difficult to follow a clear path. Universities often reserve the right to modify their policies, which can impact your progress.

Direct Inquiry

It is strongly recommended that you ask the university or the relevant department directly. Quora or other online forums may provide generalized advice, but the specific requirements of individual programs can vary greatly.

Conclusion

While pursuing a PhD in business after a degree in aerospace engineering is possible, it comes with certain challenges. These challenges can be discussed and understood more clearly by engaging directly with the relevant university departments or admissions offices. The key lies in thorough research and direct communication to ensure a smoother transition and a successful academic journey.

Remember, the insight and support from the admissions office can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of such a transition. Start your journey by reaching out to the relevant institution.