ABSTRACT
This first chapter asks the vital question ‘What do you want to get out of doing research?’ It looks at the many career opportunities that doing research at master’s or doctoral level can create, but emphasises that it is only by making these possibilities explicit that the candidate can eventually make them possible. Issues about identity and creating ‘possible selves’ as a guide to the future are explored. It looks at the changes to the doctoral process from its evolution as a licence to teach through to the current emphasis on the doctorate as preparation for careers in academia, the professions, business and public service. The role of departments and institutions in creating an environment where good supervision flourishes and employability is discussed. Examples of work on the modern doctorate across Europe and the USA will be explored.
