I am debating whether or not I should enrol in a part-time PhD programme in the UK, or continue to informally build upon my existing list of published works. I am not currently employed at a university that offers a PhD by published works, which I know is typically a requirement for consideration for this degree. My plan is to seek employment at a University that offers this once I have a solid collection of at least five interrelated first-author publications.

Does anyone have any advice for someone who is prospectively planning a PhD-by-publication, in terms of increasing the likelihood of one's eventual success in being awarded the degree?

For context, I am in my early 30s and have a master's degree in epidemiology and biostatistics. I am NOT seeking a career in academia, and going back to university full-time is not financially viable given family obligations. I publish regularly through my work in public health practice. A PhD would help me land more research-oriented public health policy jobs and would add to my professional credibility (most of my colleagues have doctoral degrees - either clinical, DrPH or PhD), but a terminal degree is not absolutely necessary for advancement in my field. Career progression is, however, dependent on having a solid publications list. I have good working relationships with colleagues with research degrees who are keen to work with me to develop a portfolio.

While I have not removed a part-time PhD from the table, I am uncomfortable with the idea of paying annually into a degree programme over such a long period (completion would take 6-8 years), especially as I would run a very real risk of not completing the degree given how long it will take. On the other hand, enroling in a university would offer a clearly defined path with check boxes for obtaining a PhD that I wouldn't otherwise have.

Thank you very much in advance for any comments and suggestions.