Ask for a leave of absence or to arrange a flexible work schedule while you pursue the degree. All they can say is no. Go for the degree. If you ended up with

Ask for a leave of absence or to arrange a flexible work schedule while you pursue the degree. All they can say is no. Go for the degree. If you ended up with a Senior role then you have lots of experience already, I assume. You'll ALWAYS be able to find another job. With a PhD in Crypto, you'll be able to move towards a Crypto job, or teaching if that floats your boat. Side note: I am very jealous and a bit inspired. Former military and my academic route is mangled with starting late and working full-time as a developer, and so I'm hoping to complete a bachelors by 28 or 29 at my dismal pace. The fact you 're looking at going back to school at 30 for a PhD makes me feel like it will all work out one way or the other.