I've just finished an MSc in IT with Liverpool Uni.After working in a commercial environment for the last 20 odd years, I find I've really enjoyed the challenge, and the academic approach required by the Masters.

I guess I'd love to carry on and do a PHD, but I'm not sure how someone in my age group might fit ..... any comments gratefully received :-)

I dont see why you would have a problem. If you want to do it cos you enjoy the academic side to the area then go for it.

There are certainly mature students (40s and 50s) undertaking research degrees at my institution, so it's not impossible! Have you had a chance to discuss this with your MSc tutors? I'm sure they would be able to advise you. Good luck! :o)

Im sure you'd fit in fine, and, sorry if im offending anyone, but there are a lot of 'younger' PhD students who seem alittle old for their years anyway! Why should age stop you from doing what you want to do? and 50s not exactly ancient

finished with 38. The problem is in my opinion more the other acadmics than the students. They will treat you like the 21 year olds. That is a bit hard to take. Consider a country that is more used to older PhD's. Germany, Netherlands. I am German and was amazed at the Kindergarten attitude here. In my undergrad project I was more independent than in my PhD. Consider looking fo a Prof that lets you be grown up if you want to stay in the UK system. If you can really do independent research definitly go for it.

That's exactly the same dilemma as I have. Due to my finalcial hardship and family issues during last 20 years, I could not start my Ph.D program. Now I am not sure if it is worth econimically.

"Now I am not sure if it is worth econimically"

At 38 hitting 39 it certainly changed my life. Now I am considered overqualified for many positions. Be careful, it really depends, in what your PhD will be. If you are in Computing, chances are that in 4 years you are outdated commercially and they have loads of 20 year olds that can program 72 hours a piece while being cheaper than you.