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Doctoral education in the biomedical sciences: back to the future?
1Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology, University of Texas Medical School, Houston 77030, USA. knobil@girch1.med.uth.tmc.edu
Summary
Reforming graduate education requires historical perspective. Current debates on PhD programs echo 19th-century discussions, suggesting no easy solutions exist for scientist and engineer employment challenges.
Area of Science:
- Higher Education Policy
- Science and Technology Workforce Development
- Graduate Education Reform
Background:
- Contraction of employment opportunities for scientists and engineers fuels debate on graduate education.
- Current criticisms of PhD programs include excessive length, narrow focus, and vocational training over education.
- These criticisms and proposed reforms have historical precedents dating back to the late 19th century.