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Monitor doctoral student progression and identify students who may need additional guidance or support. * Coordinate doctoral course schedules and proposed teaching assignments in collaboration with ...

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Doctoral Student information

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$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do doctoral student jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for doctoral student in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a doctoral student?

Doctoral students are individuals enrolled in a doctoral (PhD or equivalent) program at a university or research institution. They conduct advanced research in a specialized field with the goal of contributing new knowledge through their dissertation or thesis. Doctoral students often take advanced coursework, participate in academic conferences, and may teach or assist with undergraduate courses. Their work culminates in the defense and publication of their original research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a doctoral student, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Doctoral Student, you need advanced research skills, a strong academic background in your field, and often a relevant master's degree. Proficiency with research methodologies, data analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and academic writing tools is typically required. Exceptional time management, perseverance, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly are standout soft skills. These abilities are critical for producing original research, meeting academic milestones, and contributing meaningfully to your scholarly community.

What are some common challenges doctoral students face when balancing research, coursework, and personal life?

Doctoral students often juggle multiple responsibilities, including conducting independent research, completing coursework, teaching or assisting with classes, and managing personal commitments. Time management and setting boundaries are frequent challenges, as research can be unpredictable and demanding. Doctoral programs typically encourage students to seek support from advisors, peers, and campus resources to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Regular communication with supervisors and creating a realistic schedule can help students navigate these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Doctoral Student vs Research Assistant?

AspectDoctoral StudentResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsEnrolled in a PhD program, often with a bachelor's or master's degreeTypically undergraduate or master's students, sometimes with relevant experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labs, universitiesUniversities, research institutes, labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research settingsAcademic and research organizations, sometimes industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic roles, pursuing a PhDAssisting research projects, gaining research experience

Doctoral students are enrolled in PhD programs and focus on their own research, while research assistants support existing research projects, often working under a supervisor. Both roles are common in academic settings but differ in responsibilities and career stages.

What jobs do doctoral students get?

Doctoral students often work as research assistants, teaching assistants, or in internships related to their field of study. These roles help develop research, teaching, and professional skills, and may be part-time or funded positions within academic institutions or research organizations.

What states have the most Doctoral Student jobs?

States with the most job openings for Doctoral Student jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Doctoral Student jobs?

For Doctoral Student jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Doctoral Student job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Doctoral Committee Chair - Psychology - California Southern University (Terminal Degree in Psycholog

Remote

$170 - $180/day

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Doctoral Committee Chair - Psychology (Clinical or Counseling) - California Southern University (AIU System)
Overview
California Southern University, part of the AIU System, is seeking a Doctoral Committee Chair in Psychology to mentor doctoral learners and guide them through successful project completion. This role is ideal for an experienced academic who is passionate about research, mentorship, and student success in an online learning environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead doctoral committees and guide learners through topic selection, proposal development, oral defense, and final manuscript completion
  • Provide in-depth, actionable feedback on:
    • Research methodologies
    • Literature reviews
    • Data collection and analysis
    • Dissertation writing and formatting
    • IRB applications and compliance
  • Monitor learner progress to ensure milestone achievement and project completion
  • Proactively engage learners to maintain momentum and accountability
  • Collaborate with faculty and academic advisors to address student concerns and performance issues
  • Ensure adherence to university policies, academic standards, and ethical research protocols
  • Oversee IRB compliance and responsible data collection practices

Required Education and Experience
  • Terminal degree in Psychology from an institutionally or regionally accredited institution

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Terminal degree in Clinical or Counseling Psychology
  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist
  • Previous experience serving as a doctoral committee member or chair
  • Experience teaching or mentoring online and/or adult learners
  • Demonstrated scholarly contributions within the last 10 years, including:
    • Peer-reviewed publications
    • Conference presentations
    • Program evaluation reports or related research work

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build collaborative, professional relationships
  • Proficiency working in virtual academic environments
  • Ability to support diverse student populations
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and learning new technologies quickly
  • Expertise or familiarity with:
    • Quantitative analysis tools (R, SPSS, PSPP, JASP, G*Power, etc.)
    • Data visualization tools (GlueViz, Orange, etc.)
    • Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed research methods
  • Willingness to participate in training and faculty development

Why This Role Stands Out
  • Per-student per 8-week course compensation: $170-$180
  • Potential per student compensation for entire doctoral sequence: $1530 - $1620
  • Opportunity to serve on multiple committees simultaneously*
  • Fully remote, flexible academic role
  • Direct impact on doctoral student success and completion

*Student load may vary based on academic leadership guidelines. Faculty may onboard up to five new learners per month until reaching capacity (approximately 20 total students after four months).
Work Environment
  • 100% Remote
  • Flexible schedule aligned to student needs and deadlines
  • Collaborative, mission-driven academic community