<p>I'm 28 years old and I already have 28 credits. I want to work all the way up to get a PhD and two masters. One in Media Communications and the other in Religious Studies. I really have no formal education before this (it's a long story), and I feel like I'm really old to be starting this, especially since these kind of programs can go on for 11+ years. Has anyone ever seen this? A person just starting at 28 with these high aspirations? Or am I pipe dreaming over here? lol Thanks for your responses in advance.</p>
<p>bumpbumpbumpbump</p>
<p>Why do you want those degrees? What do you plan on doing? PhDs in those fields are for people who want to be professors.</p>
<p>Because I have a real interest in theology and religion and religious history and communications because that degree helps ALL degrees. </p>
<p>What if I had an interest in getting a job for the Vatican? Or another religious institution?</p>
<p>I mean, you’re certainly not “too old”, but why on earth do you want so many degrees? Just go straight to a PhD program after undergrad (if you are sufficiently qualified to get in)</p>
<p>I’d say, just start with your first degree and see how it goes. Many times, one can apply for funding to get advanced degrees if you do a great job with your 1st degree and have some good research and recommendations, as well as internships. Good luck!</p>
<p>28 is not too old. My best friend’s wife got her PhD at 35 after a long break. I’ve taught students who are in their 40s and 50s, as undergraduates. The suggestion that you slow down, that you end up somewhere that can lead to the degrees you want (PS - Master’s are not useful once you have a PhD - a dual PhD or PhD and religious doctorate (D. Div. among others) would be more useful and educational.</p>
<p>I agree that you either need to go step by step, or start as high as you can. There are a handful of colleges that let you use “life experiences” as college credits, that might be a good way to start as a PhD student.</p>
<p>Get one undergraduate degree, then see how you feel about going on. The last degree I finished (my one and only masters) made me think I NEVER wanted to go back into a classroom again. 20 years later I am thinking about taking a class or two… but you are putting the cart before the horse. Get your undergrad degree, then figure out if you want to go on.</p>
<p>These are thoughtful responses.</p>
<p>Also, I didn’t know I could go straight for my PhD and skip getting a masters all together.</p>
<p>A journey can begin with a single step and you’ve done more than that already. Focus on doing well in your current studies and do the research on what the next best steps should be and how to proceed. Congratulations on getting this far and on your plans.</p>
<p>Thank you cptofthehouse!</p>
<p>You’re better off going straight to a PhD program, if that is indeed the degree you want, since the funding would be better. However, if you don’t want to be a college professor and you aren’t independently wealthy, a PhD is not a great choice. </p>
<p>Then should I just settle for a masters?</p>