freelance consultant

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I posted this already in the "work" forum, but I am posting it here is as well in case some of the people here don't read that other forum.

I would like to get a Ph.D. in a technical field like computer science and become an independent consultant because a) I like to make good money b) I hate having a boss c) I hate corporate culture and office politics d) I want control over my schedule e) I don't want to work 80 hours a week. With all that said, does anyone here know anyone who has done something of the sort? Any recommendations/suggestions for how to be successful at this?

If you enjoy what you're doing, then yer golden. Otoh, I can see it being a real grind, possibly as bad as work is for ya now if ya don't like the subject and just want to make $$$.

To be successful as a consultant, you should (i think), have a minimum of 8 years as an employee just to get all the necessary trainings and practical experience. For a highly technical field such as computer programming or administration, companies rarely look at high educational attainments such as MBAs or PhDs. Rather, they look at certificates, projects accomplished, etc. To pursue certifications on your own could mean huge spending on your part that's why its best to get employed and let the company shoulder the training expenses. Big money in technology/computers usually come when you have spent considerable years in the business having worked with a lot of companies and projects. Unless of course you discovered or invented something new and ingenious and sold your idea.

What is your education level now? It's pretty hard to get a PhD is computer science! Are you ready/willing/able to spend 3-4 years, assuming you have an MS in CS, reasearching one area of computer science and then make a patentworthy breakthrough in that area?

Good luck. I'm working on my BS in CS right now, so I'm curious. I'd love to get a graduate degree myself.