You are here:

Career Planning/PhD & Certifications

Advertisement

Expert: Torski Dobson-Arnold - 5/31/2010


Question
Hello,
I'm currently pursuing my PhD in Energy & Environmental Systems, but my background is Computer Science. I'm considering some IT certifications such as Security+ or Linux+, if I possibly get enough time to pursue them. Would the certifications make me more marketable with a PhD or would it be somehow contradictory? Thanks.

Answer
Will,

In my experience the PhD is more common in those job seekers looking to teach on the college level or those interested in research in a specific field.  I do not know that a PhD would make you more marketable for IT job placement in IT security positions and may even confuse the hiring managers.

I would stick with the certifications as they are usually more competitively priced and take less time and commitment as does a doctoral program.

Just my two cents!

Claiming nothing but success in all of your career endeavors,

Torski Dobson-Arnold
Your Career Confidence Coach

Career Planning

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Torski Dobson-Arnold

Expertise

Career assessment, Career planning, job fair participation, teen and young adult job search strategies, resume writing for new job seekers.

Experience

1o years on human resources management specifically in recruitment, staffing, employment, and compensation. Worked and headed groups that built succession plans from the ground-up. Volunteer with local high school and colleges to present workshops on career planning and readiness issues.

Organizations
NAAAHR (National Association of African-Americans in HR) SHRM (Society of Human Resources Management) NRWA (National Resume Writer's Association) AORCP (Association of Online Resume and Career Professionals)

Education/Credentials
MS in Human Resources Management BA in Marketing Management PHR certification (awarded in 2006)

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.