Resolve to Earn a Doctoral Degree in 2012

You'd be forgiven for thinking a PhD is only for pretentious academic types. After all less than one percent of the population -- 0.9 percent according to the Census Bureau, to be exact -- have earned the title. So chances are your opinion of doctoral degree holders is largely shaped by the stereotype of the stuffy college professor. However, the reality is a PhD can be put to use in a variety of occupations across a number of industries.
Resolve to advance your education in 2012
While a college education is almost universally accepted as the ticket to a better job and more income, most students are content to finish their academic career after two or four years. Some ambitious individuals might go on to a master's degree, but relatively few brave the doctoral degree programs.
For many students, earning a doctoral degree can be an intimidating proposition. They envision a process that requires a total commitment and overwhelming tuition costs. In addition, a PhD seems unnecessary. Other doctoral degrees such as those in law, veterinary science and medicine seem applicable only to specific occupations.
Given the misconceptions about PhDs and other doctoral programs, it is no wonder so few students seek out this advanced education. However, a doctoral degree can be a practical addition to your credentials. Furthermore, online programs offer flexibility and can be surprisingly inexpensive.
The facts about doctoral degrees
Advanced degree programs are valuable across a variety of industries and can significantly boost your earning potential. Rather than focusing only on traditionally cerebral subjects in the humanities, today's doctoral degrees often have a more vocational flavor. The Council of Graduate Schools found 42 percent of doctoral degrees in 2010 were awarded in the following sectors:

• Health sciences
• Biological and agricultural sciences
• Social and behavioral sciences

In addition, while PhDs used to be largely a man's world, many schools have worked to make their programs more accessible to women. In 2010, the CGS found women earned 52 percent of doctorates. Minorities have also been traditionally underrepresented in doctoral degree programs, but organizations such as The PhD Project have been working to promote advanced degrees to these individuals.
The payoff for those who pursue a doctoral degree can be significant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2010, those with an advanced degree such as a master's degree, doctoral degree or first-professional degree earn an average of 30 percent more than those with only a bachelor's degree. While you may think that extra income will be offset by the student loans needed to earn the degree, The PhD Project says many schools actually waive tuition and fees for their doctoral candidates, sometimes in exchange for work such as teaching or research assistance.
Career options for those with doctoral degrees
If you are intrigued by the possibility of earning a doctoral degree, here are just some of the careers that benefit from advanced education.

1. Nursing instructor: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing says U.S. nursing schools turned away 67,563 qualified applicants in 2010 partly because there were simply no instructors to teach them. There is a national nursing faculty shortage of 7.7 percent, and the vast majority of vacancies are a result of schools being unable to find doctoral degree holders. A doctorate in nursing can put you on the fast track to filling one of these jobs.
2. Computer scientists: A doctorate in computer science can take you beyond the help desk and into the research lab. Unlike software engineers who create applications using computer technology, computer scientists are the ones creating the technology itself. Often, you can go directly from a bachelor's degree to a PhD program in computer science.
3. Psychologist: You don't have to have a doctoral degree to work as a psychologist, but you do if you want to work independently. Psychologists with a PhD can own their own private practice, but that is not their only career option. Others with a doctorate in psychology may go on to teach or conduct research.

Weight loss and exercise may be popular New Year's resolutions, but they are not the only good things you can do for yourself in 2012. This year, try something new and resolve to earn the doctoral degree you deserve.