Have you ever thought about having the freedom to decide and opt for a lifestyle where you can choose when and how you work? For many professionals over the age of 35, this may seem like a rather remote possibility. However, a PhD is certainly the first step in opening that door. This is more than an academic degree: today, pursuing a PhD is ideal because it will help you redesign your working future, achieving greater autonomy, purpose, and, of course, sustainability.
Over time, the work culture has changed, and with it, the needs we have, as well as the way we perceive and understand higher education. Doctorates, once linked almost exclusively to rigid, face-to-face academic models, have found ways to adapt to a modern world in constant evolution.
Online doctorates represent an equally valid and respected alternative, offering professionals high-level training without leaving aside their personal or work life. This flexibility responds to a new reality, an environment that values both specialization and the ability to learn autonomously, manage time, and apply knowledge in different contexts.
The new reality of the postdoctoral world
According to a report by the OECD (2024), more than 61% of health professionals in highly developed countries are not only looking to join a research center or university, but many are focused on going further, developing their own companies, independent projects, and advising global organizations from home. This phenomenon is most often seen in professionals who studied for a PhD at a distance, with the clear intention of transforming their academic experience into an opportunity for a new professional life.
A significant example is that of academic entrepreneurship, in which PhDs apply their research experience to introduce startups based on scientific evidence, or offer high-level services in data analysis, professional ethics, or technological development. This is the case of Andrea Suero, a PhD in Education graduate from Atlantic International University (AIU). Thanks to the flexibility of the program, Andrea was able to combine her responsibilities as the director of an educational center with her advanced studies, immediately applying the knowledge acquired in her work environment.
What does it mean to be free after the PhD?
PhD freedom is not only limited to the work environment, it is to be able to make possible the alignment between your career and personal purpose. It means:
Working anywhere in the world, without the need for an office.
Being able to choose with whom to collaborate.
Having time for research, teaching, or entrepreneurship according to your values
Organizing your workday to balance life and career.
Select projects that really catch your attention or that you are passionate about.
Create a solid personal brand to be a reference in the area of specialization.
Share knowledge that fosters social transformation.
Success stories
In Latin America, more and more professionals are taking advantage of the 100% online modality to complete their doctorate and open up new job opportunities. For example, Gisella Margarita Suero Toribio, PhD in Statistics, conducted research focused on data interpretation and process improvement in her home country, the Dominican Republic. Since completing her PhD online at the age of 44, Gisella has dedicated herself to providing statistical consulting to various organizations, working remotely and managing international projects from home.
Another inspiring case is that of Dr. José Silvestre Quezada Sánchez, who completed his postdoctoral degree in Administration with a specialization in Rural Administration 100% online. Thanks to this flexibility, he was able to organize his study time according to his own rhythms, without sacrificing his work or family commitments. Her experience is testimony to the transformative potential of this type of training.
Why does a distance learning PhD enhance this freedom?
Training online somehow forces you to develop self-discipline, digital skills, and a global network. These skills are the same as those required to lead your own projects. Also, you can:
You can apply research to your reality from day one
It saves a lot on commuting costs and time
It makes it easier to keep in parallel employment while studying, easing this transition.
In addition, studying for a PhD at a distance allows you to adapt the learning to your personal and professional context, which makes each class have an immediate and tangible impact. This modality not only respects your pace of life but also encourages you to transform your environment through knowledge, without having to wait until the end of the program to see results.
Statistics that support the change
74% of self-employed healthcare professionals report having more control over their work life, according to Nature (2023).
A Harvard University study shows that those with a PhD are 57% more likely to be able to take on leadership positions without traditional chains of command.
In Latin America, 39% of PhD graduates seek more flexible or collaborative work structures, post-graduation, according to the IDB.
The importance of constant updating
In this professional and academic world that is in constant movement. It is important that after your doctorate, you maintain an active attitude towards updating your knowledge and skills. According to a study by Stanford University (2023), professionals who continue their education after their PhD are able to increase their chances of job success and independent growth by 35%.
For this reason, small courses, seminars, and professional networks are elements that will help you stay active and give way to innovation in your field. Also, allowing you to stay current, relevant, and respond effectively to any challenge that comes your way.
Managing the Balance Between Independence and Collaboration
Beyond the fact that freedom is a highly desirable goal, it is also important to recognize that collaborative work enhances its impact. It is very common for those who work independently, after their doctorate, to find in the collaboration of other experts an ideal complement for their projects. Digital media and academic associations provide spaces to exchange knowledge, seek unions, and open new possibilities.
The International Doctoral Association (2024) tells us that 68% of successful graduates say that collaboration was key to making their venture grow.
Strategies for maintaining an active and useful professional network
It will always be important to maintain, but above all, to expand your network of contacts after obtaining your doctorate. The recommendation is to practice a routine to keep communicating with your colleagues, go to virtual conferences, participate in specialized groups, and add contributions to online communities. This not only represents job opportunities, but also the opportunity to constantly learn and provide mutual support.
A report by LinkedIn (2024) highlighted that 85% of jobs are obtained through networking, which shows us the weight of having a plan for any graduate professional.
How can you begin this journey?
Identify your purpose: What do you want to contribute to the world with your knowledge?
Evaluate a PhD aligned with your vision: Opt for programs with a practical, international focus.
Build a network: From day one, connect with colleagues, mentors, and global communities.
Apply what you learn: Use your thesis and projects as the seeds of your entrepreneurship or consultancy.
Envision the future: Think of your PhD as an investment to redesign your lifestyle.
It's time to take the plunge and transform your career path!
You shouldn't wait until the best years of your professional life to take control of your career. A PhD can open the door to a freer life, connected to your passions and with greater flexibility, all from the comfort of your home. You don't have to sacrifice your job or your daily activities to achieve it.
This new landscape is more than just a trend; it's a reality that many professionals, like you, are already experiencing. This could be your reality too. Sometimes, you just need to dare and take that step to discover all that the working world has to offer. Are you willing to take this step?