The Versatile PhD mission is to help humanities and social science PhDs develop and demonstrate their versatility as professionals. We want you to be informed about academic employment realities, educated about nonacademic career options, and supported in preparing for a range of possible careers, so that in the end, you have choices. The key concept here is versatility: the ability to apply your skills and interests in a wide variety of fields.
Though the name says “PhD,” many of the issues discussed here may be of interest as well to ABDs, MAs, and people from disciplines outside the humanites and social sciences. All interested parties are welcome.
The Versatile PhD site is the new and permanent home of a community formerly known as Work For Us (WRK4US), an email discussion list founded by Paula Chambers in 1999. That listserv developed a wonderful sense of community which lives on here, continuing its tradition of providing a safe, supportive, rich learning environment where nonacademic careers can be discussed positively and constructively. A key part of that community’s strength has been its members, who have offered their collective wisdom in countless conversations. You are invited to join that community here in its new home. Basic membership is free and confidential.
Online Career Panels, formerly known as Guest Speaker Discussions, continue to be a highlight, where humanities and social science PhDs and ABDs working in nonacademic careers share their stories and answer questions.
The Versatile PhD, LLC, a California limited liability company, is supported by institutional subscriptions to the premium content area, with minor additional revenue coming from purchases in the Store.
Thank you for visiting, and may you endlessly discover new strengths as you move forward.
Paula Chambers, Ph.D.
Founder, Work For Us (1999) and The Versatile PhD (2010)
