To PhD or Not to PhD

In this episode of All Things EAP, hosts Xiaoqing and Michelle explore the question of whether EAP teachers should pursue a doctorate. They are joined by guests Steve Kirk, Qingyang Sun, and David Collett, who share their diverse perspectives and experiences. The discussion delves into the social and structural aspects of doctorate study, individual motivations, and the impact of doctoral qualifications on personal and professional development. They also discuss the challenges of doctorate research, the role of institutional and national culture in decision-making, and offer practical advice for EAP teachers considering this academic path.Hosts:Xiaoqing Bi, Xi'an Jiaotong - Liverpool UniversityMichelle Evans, University of LeedsGuests:Steve Kirk, Durum UniversityQingyang Sun, Xi'an Jiaotong - Liverpool University David Collett, De Montfort University Kazakhstan References:Bell, D. (2025) Strengthening the nexus between English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and Academic Literacies (Ac Lits): A win-win outcome for all concerned? Presented at the Academic Literacies SIG event, BALEAP, 1 May.Campion, G.C. (2016) ‘The learning never ends’: Exploring teachers’ views on the transition from General English to EAP. Journal of English for Academic Purposes, 23, pp.59-70.Ding, A. and Bruce, I. (2017) The English for academic purposes practitioner: Operating on the Edge of Academia. London: Springer, 10, pp.978-3.