Best Doctorates in Blockchain: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries
Blockchain technology is the foundation of Web3, an idea many consider to be the next evolutionary step of the World Wide Web. This idea has taken the world by storm and sparked academic interest, leading to research into blockchain technology. These pockets of research have matured into some of the best PhDs in Blockchain.
Blockchain seeks to provide a secure, decentralized, and distributed database of digital ledgers separate from centralized organizations. This article examines the best blockchain PhDs you can obtain to contribute to developing and advancing this emerging technology. It also shows you the best blockchain jobs waiting for you upon graduation.
What Is a PhD in Blockchain?
A PhD in Blockchain is a postgraduate degree awarded to those who have completed either a research project or doctoral program in blockchain technology and other related fields. This degree is the highest academic qualification you can achieve in blockchain. A blockchain PhD program offers many areas of specialization, from computer science to business and finance.
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How to Get Into a Blockchain PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The admission requirements to get into a blockchain PhD program are a bachelor’s degree and/or a master’s degree in any field related to blockchain, a proposal letter to your intended supervisor, and your undergraduate and master’s academic transcripts.
Other admission requirements include a language proficiency certification for non-native English speakers, recommendation letters, and a minimum undergraduate GPA. Many schools also request proof of sufficient funding to cover the duration of your program. In addition to these requirements, you will have to demonstrate knowledge of topics related to the specific program.
PhD in Blockchain Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in blockchain or related fields
- Undergraduate and master’s academic transcripts
- A proposal letter to your intended supervisor
- Language proficiency certification (for international students)
- Sufficient funds to cover the duration of your program
Blockchain PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Blockchain?
It is not very hard to get into a PhD program in blockchain. Blockchain is a relatively new field and it is not yet established as an independent field of study. Consequently, you have to major in another program and study blockchain as a concentration. Note that some of these programs tend to be competitive and accept only the very best of all applicants.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
Best PhDs in Blockchain: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| Fordham University | PhD in Business | No |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | MIT Sloan PhD | No |
| Stanford University | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| University of Bern | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| University of British Columbia | PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering | No |
| University of California, Berkeley | PhD in Finance | No |
| University of California, Los Angeles | PhD in Computer Science | No |
| University of Edinburgh | PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy, and Trust | No |
| University of Portsmouth | PhD in The Economics of FinTech and Digital Money | No |
Best Universities for Blockchain PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Blockchain
The best universities for blockchain PhDs are those that have a strong research focus on blockchain technology and its impact on finance. Most of them feature a research center or laboratory dedicated to blockchain, cryptography, and digital currency research. If you’re wondering where to get a PhD in Blockchain, this section examines the best available options.
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Operating for more than 250 years, Columbia University is the oldest higher learning institution in New York state. It has very high research activity and has pioneered several scientific breakthroughs. Columbia is a leading university in technological innovation, with its researchers producing more than 400 new inventions every year .
PhD in Computer Science
This program has a strong focus on research and emphasizes practical work. The department of Computer Science conducts research in all areas of computer science, including blockchain and network security. In addition, several faculty members serve as advisers to PhD candidates at the Columbia-IBM Center for Blockchain and Data Transparency.
PhD in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 5 - 6 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition: $25,248/semester
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate research assistantship, internal or external fellowship
PhD in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Standard test scores including GRE (temporarily optional)
- Language proficiency scores for TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or DET (for non-native English speakers)
- Three letters of recommendation
- A written statement of purpose explaining your background and intended study
- Application fee of $85
Fordham University
New York, NY
Fordham University was established in 1841, making it one of the oldest Jesuit Catholic universities in the country. Fordham has an active cooperative education program, evidenced by internship partnerships with at least 3,500 companies. The school also has high research activity, with six of its 10 constituent schools and colleges being graduate schools.
PhD in Business
This PhD program from the Gabelli School of Business offers students the opportunity to specialize in one of the eight available fields of study, including accounting, business law and ethics, marketing, and finance. The program curriculum contains several courses in blockchain and digital currency.
PhD in Business Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition: $1,732/credit
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Loan programs, gift aid, assistantships, veteran initiatives
PhD in Business Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts for every previously obtained degree
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4-point scale
- Your resume or CV
- A writing sample to demonstrate your research and writing skills
- Standard test scores including GRE and TOEFL, IELTS (for non-native English speakers)
- Three letters of recommendation
- A one- to two-page statement of purpose summarizing your past academic achievements and current interests
- Interview (optional)
- Non-refundable application fee of $75
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is one of the best global universities , second only to Harvard University, according to US News & World Report. It was founded in 1861 and established its MIT Sloan School of Management in 1914. The graduate programs at MIT Sloan are some of the most selective globally and involve collaboration with other top schools like the Harvard Kennedy School.
MIT Sloan PhD
MIT Sloan offers this PhD in General Management Studies. Graduate students can research topics in business, finance, economics, accounting, and behavioral and policy sciences. The school also features a Blockchain lab where students can experiment with cryptographic and blockchain technologies.
MIT Sloan PhD Overview
- Program Length: 6 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition: $80,400/year
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Student loans and scholarships, assistantship, research fellowship
MIT Sloan PhD Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- A strong background related to your chosen concentration. For example, accounting requires calculus
- Knowledge of microeconomics and macroeconomics
- Statement of purpose
- Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended (even if you did not graduate)
- Resume
- Video essay (optional based on program)
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Valid GMAT or GRE scores
- Valid TOEFL or IELTS scores (non-native English speakers)
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Established in 1885, Stanford University is a private research institution with a strong focus on entrepreneurship. This school is one of the four best national universities offering a doctoral computer program. Stanford is helping to shape the future of the Internet through its Center for Blockchain Research .
PhD in Computer Science
This doctoral program is the only available PhD from the Department of Computer Science. It provides a broad range of topics for graduate students to conduct their research on, including blockchain. Several department members work at the Stanford Center for Blockchain Research, and they offer to supervise PhD candidates in blockchain research.
PhD in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition: $18,105/quarter
- PhD Funding Opportunities: 5-year funding guarantee, assistantship, research fellowship
PhD in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Resume
- TOEFL scores (for non-native English speakers)
- 3 letters of recommendation
- A written statement of purpose explaining your background and intended study
- A non-refundable $125 application fee
University of Bern
Bern, Switzerland
The University of Bern, over its 187-year history, has spread out all over the city of Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The university offers more than 100 graduate programs from its eight faculties and 150 institutes. It has also established 10 strategic centers for research to fulfill one of its mission goals.
PhD in Computer Science
This English-taught program involves close collaboration with a supervisor from the Institute of Computer Science. PhD candidates can research areas covered by research groups within the institute, including the Cryptology and Data Security Research Group. This group focuses on applying cryptographic protocols to blockchains, distributed ledger technology, cryptocurrencies, and their economics.
PhD in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 3 - 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: CHF 750 (approx. $753.08)/semester (residents of Switzerland); CHF 950 (approx. $954.14)/semester (non-residents of Switzerland)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Assistantship, doctoral post, funding from the Swiss National Science Foundation
PhD in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree and/or master’s degree from a recognized university
- Certified photocopies of academic transcripts
- A resume showing an uninterrupted timeline of your academic studies
- A photocopy of a valid identification card or international passport
- A declaration of consent
- Fulfill the requirements stipulated by the relevant faculty or graduate school
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, Canada
The University of British Columbia was founded in 1908 and is ranked second among the best universities in Canada and among the top 40 globally. It is notable for its research activities and funds an estimated 10,000 projects with a research budget of $795.1 million. International students make up about 25 percent of the student population at UBC.
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering
This program is designed to provide students the ability to perform independent research in fields like communications systems, energy systems, and micro and nanotechnologies. PhD candidates can also conduct research under the auspices of the Blockchain@UBC research cluster. This group provides blockchain training to augment existing PhD programs.
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Tuition and Fees: $5,301.54 CAD (approx. $4,135.90)/year (residents of Canada) ; $9,313.92 CAD (approx. $7,266.08)/year (nonresidents of Canada)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: PhD minimum funding, scholarships, research assistantships, internal or external tuition awards, additional funding for Blockchain students
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree and/or master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields
- Minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4-point scale
- Three letters of recommendation
- Citizenship verification for permanent residents
- A statement of interest
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
The University of California, Berkeley offers more than 100 graduate programs from its 14 schools and colleges. UC Berkeley has high research activity and is host to several research centers, including the Space Sciences Laboratory. It also has nine Nobel prize winners among its current researchers.
PhD in Finance
This PhD program is one of the fields of study available at the Berkeley Haas Business School. It aims to contribute to the latest innovations and technology in finance. One such innovation is blockchain, and the UC Berkeley Haas Blockchain Initiative aids in its development. The initiative funds research in distributed ledger technology, applied cryptography, and global financial inclusion.
PhD in Finance Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Tuition and Fees: $35,822.75/year (in state); $39,051.25/year (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Grants, awards, research fellowships
PhD in Finance Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited university
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale
- IELTS and TOEFL test score (non-native English speakers)
- Three letters of recommendation
- A personal statement and a statement of purpose
- A non-refundable application fee of $120
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
UCLA, formerly the southern branch of UC Berkeley, was established as a separate university in 1951. UCLA has over 14,000 graduate and professional students enrolled in its eight professional schools.
PhD in Computer Science
The UCLA computer science PhD program provides nine fields of study to students including computer network systems and artificial intelligence. The school also features the UCLA Connection Lab where PhD students can research blockchain and applied cryptography under the supervision of computer science faculty members.
PhD in Computer Science Overview
- Program Length: 6 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $17,756/year (in state); $32,858/year (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: University-wide fellowships, research grants, departmental funding, teaching assistantships, traineeships
PhD in Computer Science Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution
- An academic transcript from every post-secondary institution attended
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale
- At least three letters of recommendation
- GRE scores (optional)
- A personal history statement and statement of purpose
- Application fee of $120 (US citizens and permanent residents); $140 (all other applicants)
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Operating since 1583, the University of Edinburgh is the sixth-oldest running university in the world . The school is proud to be a global university and offers hundreds of PhD programs to local and international candidates. It also hosts more than 20 research centers and institutes.
PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy, and Trust
This PhD program trains students as researchers in digital information security, privacy, and trust topics. It also teaches students how to design technologies based on the understanding of the law, business processes, cost, and useability. Presently, the Blockchain Research Laboratory at the university is advertising open positions for PhD candidates from the School of Informatics.
PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy, and Trust Overview
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: £4,596 (approx. $5,779.24)/year (domestic & UK); £28,000 (approx. $35,205.77)/year (international)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: UK government postgraduate loans, scholarships, departmental funding, fellowships
PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy, and Trust Admission Requirements
- A minimum of UK 2:1 honors or its international equivalent in computer science, mathematics, or a related discipline
- A master’s degree in a relevant subject
- A research proposal
- English language competency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS
University of Portsmouth
Portsmouth, United Kingdom
The University of Portsmouth is a public university that was founded in 1870. It offers 150 postgraduate degrees and 65 research programs from its five faculties and 25 departments. Portsmouth is one of only four universities in the southeast region of the UK possessing the highest gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework.
PhD in the Economics of FinTech and Digital Money
This program focuses on understanding the benefits and risks of FinTech. It also aims to contribute to the development of financial technology such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The three areas of research in the program are Central Bank Digital Currency (CBCD), cryptocurrency, and alternative finance.
PhD in the Economics of FinTech and Digital Money Overview
- Program Length: 3 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: £4,500 (approx. $5,665.70)/year (United Kingdom and Europe); £16,300 (approx. $20,522.43)/year (international)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Government doctoral loans, scholarships, referral awards
PhD in the Economics of FinTech and Digital Money Admission Requirements
- A minimum of second class upper honors in bachelor’s degree or equivalent or a Master’s in Economics, Finance, or related degrees
- English language proficiency at a minimum IELTS score band of 6.5
- A research proposal of 1,000 words
- Strong quantitative skills including statistics, programming, and mathematics.
- Competency in MATLAB, Stata, Python, or R software packages
Can You Get a PhD in Blockchain Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Blockchain online. Blockchain is a suitable field for online studies due to its digital nature. Several schools provide online PhD programs with blockchain courses where you can conduct research using a flexible schedule. The following section outlines some of these schools and the programs they offer.
Best Online PhD Programs in Blockchain
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Bircham International University | Online Doctor PhD Degree in Cryptocurrency | 2 years |
| Erasmus Research Institute of Management | Online PhD in Business and Management – Cryptocurrency and Blockchains specialization | Summer program |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Blockchain?
It generally takes five years to get a PhD in Blockchain. You will spend the first year meeting with your supervisor and attending lectures. In the second to fourth years, you will conduct research, collect results, and plan your thesis layout. During the fifth year, you will spend much of your time writing your thesis and completing any research.
A PhD takes noticeably longer than a master’s degree to complete because it is an advanced degree and requires extensive study. You have to present satisfactory research results to the examining body to get approval for your degree. Moreover, your program duration may increase if you do not complete your research within the allocated time.
Is a PhD in Blockchain Hard?
No, a PhD in Blockchain is not hard. Most blockchain PhDs research the societal, economic, and financial impact of blockchain without delving deep into its technological aspects. This research direction is relatively easier to pursue compared to other blockchain PhDs.
Nevertheless, you should note that blockchain involves some advanced concepts like applied cryptography, smart contracts, and distributed ledger technology. PhDs in these research areas may seem challenging, but your program’s faculty can aid in your research. You can also use online resources to guide you on how to learn blockchain technology .
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Blockchain?
It costs between $1,000 and $80,000 per year to get a PhD in Blockchain. The exact cost depends on your university and program of study. Generally, private universities cost more money to attend than public universities.
In many US universities, rather than you paying for the program, the school pays you a monthly stipend. This arrangement is tailored more to research PhDs than academic PhDs. These funding options are worthwhile to consider when searching for funding for your degree.
How to Pay for a PhD in Blockchain: PhD Funding Options
The PhD funding options that students can use to pay for a PhD in Blockchain include research grants from the government or university, scholarships, tuition waivers from the university, and salaried research fellowship positions. In rare cases, your supervisor might make a special request for you as a research student and offer to bear the cost of your education.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
What Is the Difference Between a Blockchain Master’s Degree and PhD?
The difference between a blockchain master’s degree and a PhD is the length of study. A master’s degree in blockchain usually requires one to two years of study with a semester-long thesis concluding the program. On the other hand, a PhD in Blockchain requires three to five years of advanced research and results in peer-reviewed publications.
Another difference is that a master’s degree is more career-oriented and provides more employment opportunities. A PhD is research-oriented and focuses more on contributing to the blockchain field. Finally, a PhD is a higher academic qualification than a master’s and costs more money to attain.
Master’s vs PhD in Blockchain Job Outlook
A PhD in Blockchain is most useful when you want to pursue a career in academia like lecturing or a research fellowship. Corporations usually do not require a higher qualification than a master’s degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 12 percent job growth for blockchain academic positions through 2030.
Difference in Salary for Blockchain Master’s vs PhD
The average salary for a Master’s Degree in Blockchain or other related fields is $107,000, while the average salary for a PhD in the same fields is $133,000, according to PayScale. This significant difference shows the prestige proffered upon a PhD by employers. Job seekers with a blockchain PhD get more offers for senior positions than their contemporaries with a master’s degree.
Unfortunately, these figures do not tell the entire story. Corporate jobs that require a PhD qualification are few and far between, hence the lucrative salary. Many blockchain PhD holders have to settle for jobs that they are overqualified for or go into academia. However, you should know that most blockchain jobs that do not need a PhD still have salaries much higher than the national average.
Related Blockchain Degrees
Why You Should Get a PhD in Blockchain
You should get a PhD in Blockchain because it enables you to contribute to the development of revolutionary blockchain technology. An undergraduate or Master’s Degree in Blockchain will only teach you how to use the technology developed by others. Other reasons why you should get a PhD in Blockchain are listed below.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Blockchain
- Academic Recognition. Blockchain is an emerging field with relatively few people pursuing an advanced degree, meaning fewer competitors. If you get a PhD in this field, you can gain recognition among the world’s leading blockchain experts.
- Lucrative Job Opportunities. The jobs available to a blockchain PhD holder have some of the best salaries when weighed against the national average. Furthermore, companies are more likely to employ PhD holders in senior blockchain positions.
- Travel Experience. Pursuing a blockchain PhD often involves moving to other cities or even countries. This program will grant you the opportunity to gain life experiences to bolster your academic prospects.
- Valuable Connections. During your PhD program, you will work with an amazing team of researchers and make new connections. By the end of your program, you will have developed an extensive peer network that can assist you throughout your career.
Getting a PhD in Blockchain: Blockchain PhD Coursework
Getting a PhD in Blockchain means that you have to satisfy several graduation requirements. One of those requirements is that you complete the blockchain PhD coursework. The following section describes some of the blockchain courses you will encounter in a typical curriculum for this program.
Cryptocurrency and Blockchains
This course introduces students to concepts such as cryptocurrency, blockchain fundamentals, smart contracts, digital assets, and decentralized finance. It also studies the applications of FinTech in real estate, banking, and corporate finance. Students will also learn the usefulness of FinTech in their personal finances and investments.
Blockchain in Business Research
In this course, students will learn how to develop conceptual and practical business solutions. In addition, they will examine the inner workings of blockchain technology and its effects on a business model. This course will explain the paradigm shifts occurring from economics, organizational, and computer science viewpoints.
Blockchain Ethics
This course examines the impact blockchain technology has on modern society. Students will learn how blockchain technologies like cryptography and artificial intelligence influence the evolution of blockchain organizations. Students will also explore the history and philosophy of blockchain as well as methods to shape this technology.
Introduction to Cryptography
Students will develop a background in cryptography from this course. This course explains cryptography for blockchains primitives and how to use them correctly. At the end of this course, you will understand several cryptographic techniques and their applications. This course is very complex, and you will need supplementary training from external cryptography bootcamps .
The Blockchain Ecosystem and Applications
This course examines the stakeholders that make up the global blockchain community and their roles, incentives, and organizational dynamics. Students learn strategies to apply blockchain technology in cryptocurrencies and digital assets, governance, and economics.
Best Master’s Degrees
How to Get a PhD in Blockchain: Doctoral Program Requirements
Knowing how to get a PhD in Blockchain goes beyond enrolling in your program and writing a dissertation. There are several other hurdles to jump over to become a successful candidate. Every university uses its own set of doctoral program requirements and the following list highlights the prerequisites common to all universities.
Maintain the minimum required GPA
You have to obtain at least the minimum required grade point average and maintain it through every semester of your program. Most universities stipulate the minimum GPA to be 3.0 but the exact value depends on the university and the program of study.
Complete the minimum required graduate credits
You must complete the required amount of master’s degree and PhD credit hours to be eligible for graduation. The number of credits varies for each school and program but most universities mandate you to complete a large percentage of them during the master’s program.
Pass a qualifying examination
PhD programs require students to complete a final examination and successfully verify the results. In some universities, you may have to complete a series of oral and written tests throughout your program. The examination office then collates the results to access your performance.
Complete the program within the time limit
Universities expect PhD students to complete their research and defend their thesis within five years. You can request an additional one to two years to finish your work, after which the school may withdraw your candidacy.
Thesis for PhD in Blockchain
The entirety of your PhD in Blockchain culminates in a written thesis based on your academic research. You will have to submit this thesis for examination and defend it from scholarly criticism by internal and external examiners. Finally, you must submit a copy of the accepted thesis to the university while adhering to the stipulated guidelines for submission.
Potential Careers With a Blockchain Degree
PhD in Blockchain Salary and Job Outlook
Blockchain is revolutionizing the Internet, and we are only just beginning to understand its potential impact on every facet of a modern economy. To this effect, Indeed states that employers are willing to pay an annual salary of up to $130,000 to employees with a blockchain PhD .
What Can You Do With a PhD in Blockchain?
With a PhD in Blockchain, you can work as a researcher or a postsecondary teacher in academia. You can also use the mathematics and programming skills gained during your study to work as a cryptographer or software engineer. The blockchain PhD curricula also equip you with the skills needed for success in a blockchain engineering position.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Blockchain
- Blockchain Engineer
- Cryptographer
- Software Engineer
- Blockchain Postsecondary Teacher
- Blockchain Researcher
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Blockchain?
The average salary for a PhD in Blockchain holder is $110,140, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can earn more than this amount depending on your employer, job location, and experience. As this is a rapidly advancing field, the job prospects and average salary are unsurprisingly lucrative.
Highest-Paying Blockchain Jobs for PhD Grads
| Blockchain PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Blockchain Researcher | $131,490 |
| Blockchain Engineer | $110,140 |
| Software Engineer | $110,140 |
| Cryptographer | $102,600 |
| Blockchain Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 |
Best Blockchain Jobs with a Doctorate
The best blockchain jobs with a doctorate are jobs that have a very lucrative salary and working benefits. They are likely to be in high demand for several years and have numerous open positions presently. These jobs make full use of the doctorate qualification without leaving employees feeling overqualified.
Blockchain Researcher
Blockchain researchers examine current blockchain technologies and infrastructure to identify key areas for improvement. They research these areas to develop better blockchain technology. Blockchain researchers are not limited to working in university blockchain research centers. Corporate organizations like Google and IBM also employ blockchain researchers.
- Salary with a Blockchain PhD: $131,490
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 33,000
- Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, Texas
Blockchain Engineer
A blockchain engineer designs, implements, deploys, and maintains blockchain-based networks or applications. As a blockchain developer or engineer, you will maintain battle-designed security infrastructure for blockchains and ensure frequent security upgrades to the infrastructure.
- Salary with a Blockchain PhD: $110,140
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Maryland
Software Engineer
As a software engineer specializing in blockchain, you will develop smart contracts and secure protocols for blockchain infrastructure. You will also apply your programming skills to create software such as privacy protocol for Web3 apps.
- Salary with a Blockchain PhD: $110,140
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Washington
Cryptographer
Cryptographers develop fool-proof encryption systems for data networks. Their most important task is to prevent unauthorized decryption of secure data. They employ various techniques to perform this task such as lattice-based cryptography and post-quantum cryptography.
- Salary with a Blockchain PhD: $102,600
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 47,100
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Maryland
Blockchain Postsecondary Teacher
This job is arguably the best suited for blockchain PhD holders. A postsecondary teacher applies all the knowledge gained during their PhD program to teaching a new set of blockchain students. Depending on the institution, this job may be described using other terms like a lecturer, instructor, teaching assistant, or professor.
- Salary with a Blockchain PhD: $79,640
- Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, Oregon, Massachusettes
Is a PhD in Blockchain Worth It?
Yes, a PhD in Blockchain is worth it. Blockchain is not just the future of the Internet, it is the present and there is plenty of room for the development of this technology. This means that there are ample opportunities for you to contribute to this field. It also indicates that there are lucrative jobs available to you.
If you have decided to pursue a blockchain PhD, this article should guide you in choosing the best university for your studies. Moreover, the job opportunities and attractive salaries shared above should help sway you if you are undecided.
Additional Reading About Blockchain
PhD in Blockchain FAQ
Blockchain is relevant because it offers a viable alternative to the current method of handling data. Blockchain provides a data network that is accessible, secure, immutable, and decentralized. When combined with cryptography, blockchain forms the foundation for all types of digital currency.
No, you don’t need a computer science background to earn a blockchain PhD. If you already have your master’s and undergraduate degrees in other areas of study, you can still obtain a blockchain PhD. You can conduct your research on blockchain concepts such as business, finance, law, and sociology.
No, blockchain is not the same as cryptocurrency, but rather is the technology behind cryptocurrency. Blockchain was specifically invented to power the first and largest cryptocurrency, Bitcoin. However, it has since evolved beyond that application and can operate anywhere a secure, decentralized database is needed.
Yes, you can get a blockchain job without a PhD in Blockchain. The majority of blockchain jobs do not require a PhD. Several of them do not even require any academic qualifications. Nonetheless, you need to demonstrate your expertise in blockchain and its related fields. You can do so by obtaining a certification from some of the best blockchain bootcamps available.
