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How the PhD Program Works

Program Overview

Completing your doctorate at Wharton requires 5 years of full-time study. The first 2 years in the program prepare you for admission to candidacy by taking courses, qualifying exams, and starting research projects. In the last few years, you are primarily conducting research full-time including writing and defending your doctoral dissertation.

Admission to candidacy.

You begin by taking courses required for your program of study. All programs requires a preliminary exam, which may be either oral or written.

Some programs may have further requirements, such as an additional exam or research paper. If you enter with a master’s degree or other transfer credit, you may satisfy the formal course requirements more quickly.

Beginning the Wharton PhD Curriculum How the first two years of the Wharton program helped students discover their interests, learn the tools of the profession, and fuel their passion for teaching.

The Doctoral Dissertation

Upon successful completion of coursework and passing a preliminary examination, you are admitted to candidacy for the dissertation phase of your studies.

Your doctoral dissertation should contain original research that meets standards for published scholarship in your field. You are expected to be an expert in the topic you choose to research.

You are admitted to candidacy for the dissertation phase of your studies upon successful completion of coursework and passing a preliminary examination, but you can start thinking about and working on research of relevance at any time.

The dissertation process culminates with a “defense,” in which you defend the proposal orally before your dissertation committee.

While working on your dissertation, you interact extensively with Wharton faculty. Together with interested faculty, you create your own research community that includes your dissertation advisor and dissertation committee.

Policies and Procedures

Get more detailed explanation of course requirements, academic standards, the Teacher Development Program, time limits, and dissertation procedures and requirements.

Sample Program Sequence

Years 1 & 2.

Coursework Examination Research Papers Research Activities Field-Specific Requirements

Directed Reading & Research Admission to Candidacy Formulation of Research Topic

Years 4 & 5

Continued Research Oral Examination Dissertation

Hear From Our Doctoral Community

Phd student creates a new pipeline for women in academia, wharton is the "perfect" place to do research, why this phd student chose to study business ethics at wharton.

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  • Studying For A PhD

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Applying for a phd: step-by-step guide.

Studying a PhD is a big decision and submitting your application can feel like a long process. Though with the right guidance, applying for a PhD will be a lot more straightforward than you think. 

There is a lot of PhD application advice out there. To help you make sense of it all, we’ve put together a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to apply for a PhD. We cover the PhD application process, what you need to consider, what to prepare and how to submit your application.

Follow the steps below to understand everything you need to know when applying for a PhD.

PhD application checklist

Applying for a PhD

  • Choose your subject area
  • Choose your type of PhD
  • Check application deadline
  • Draft a research proposal
  • Contact potential PhD supervisors
  • Check PhD entry requirements
  • Check PhD fees and funding
  • Make your PhD application
  • Submit your PhD application 

In this article, we’re going to look at all these different elements in greater detail to help you with the PhD application process.

1. Choose your subject area

You will be  studying your PhD for a long time – between three- and four-years’ full time and up to eight years part time – so it is essential you choose to study a subject you are passionate about.

Most PhD students study a subject area that they have studied previously, but in much greater detail. Most PhD courses require some previous academic experience in the research area, for example if you choose to study your PhD on William Shakespeare, you are likely to have studied the works of Shakespeare as part of an English Literature masters degree. Similarly, if your PhD research is in a science-based topic it is likely to be going more in depth into a science-related field you studied as an undergraduate and then as a masters student.

However, your PhD does not have to be directly related to your masters degree, for example an English Language masters graduate could expect to be successful if applying to do research in an  English literature PhD if they have achieved the necessary grades.

There are many areas that you can consider when choosing the subject area for your PhD. These could come from the  Arts ,  Humanities , STEM , Social Sciences and  Business .

Research the department at your chosen university to find the perfect PhD program to apply for.

2. Choose your type of PhD

Whilst most PhDs follow a traditional route (completing an independent research project under a supervisor), there are alternatives.

The two main types of PhD include: self-proposed PhD projects and predesigned PhD projects.

Self-proposed PhDs are the most common and traditional type of doctoral degree, although universities also offer predesigned PhD courses that integrate aspects of taught study.

Make sure you’ve considered your PhD options fully before applying for a PhD. Here are the main differences between self-proposed and predesigned PhD projects.

Self-proposed PhD projects

Self-proposed PhDs are the most common type of PhD, where students propose and design their own research.

With a self-proposed PhD, the student has a lot of control over their work and can specialise in any area that interests them with the support and approval of their academic supervisor.

Not all self-proposed PhDs receive funding, so applicants will need to make sure they have appropriate funding in place to pursue their self-proposed PhD.

There may also be some additional steps in the application process for self-proposed to ensure success in their PhD application. The student will have to dedicate a lot of time to their PhD application as it will need to include their PhD study proposal.

Predesigned PhD projects (Doctoral Training Centres)

Many universities now have something known as ‘DTC centres’, or ‘ Doctoral Training Centres ’. Many of these are in economic, social or scientific research areas, so if this is your area of interest, PhDs run out of DTC centres are worth exploring, as they can have substantial funding included. 

Predesigned PhD projects are usually slightly longer in course length than most traditional PhDs, as they’re likely to include a year of lectures and a variety of projects in the first year, before choosing to specialise in the second year.

This option is great if you know you want to do a PhD but aren’t entirely certain of what you’d like to do beyond a general area. Best of all, they often offer fully funded  studentships .

Applying for a PhD

3. Check application deadlines

When applying for a PhD it is important to ensure you meet all application deadlines, this includes the deadlines for your PhD application form and PhD proposal as well as any PhD funding deadlines.

Different universities will have different deadlines, and some universities may even have rolling deadlines, this means it is important to check on the website of the university and department you are interested in, to make sure you get your application in on time.

4. Draft a research proposal

It’s important to draft a PhD proposal when you are applying for a PhD. This is a requirement of most self-proposed PhD applications and can also be necessary when applying for other PhDs.

To ensure the success of your PhD research proposal, it’s a good idea to do some research around the subject area before submitting your research proposal. This will give you a better idea of what it is you want to research and will also help you to present your proposal more clearly.

How to write a PhD research proposal

When writing a PhD research proposal, you will need to include the following:

  • A TITLE that clearly conveys the theme of your research project.
  • The main RESEARCH QUESTION that will be the focus of your research.
  • An EXPLANATION of why your research topic is important.
  • Brief LITERATURE REVIEW demonstrating your knowledge to answer the question.
  • Proposed METHODOLOGY for answering your research questions.
  • TIMELINE SCHEDULE of the research project.  

5. Contact potential PhD supervisors

You want to make sure you choose your potential PhD supervisor in plenty of time. Of course, you should always leave plenty of time for any application, but this is especially important for a PhD, as you will often be applying to a particular supervisor who is a specialist in your area of study.

Therefore, you need to ensure you have enough time to research into suitable PhD supervisors and get in contact with them before you apply for the doctorate.

You shouldn’t rush this research, as  getting the most out of your supervisor is the first step to doing well in PhD study – it’s important to make sure you pick the one best for you.

Another important consideration is  where you choose to study . You’ll want to look at the department’s reputation, and to make sure it excels in research in the area you intend to study do you get the support you need.

6. Check PhD entry requirements

To be eligible to study a PhD, you will usually need a  masters qualification in the subject area or in a closely related subject to the subject upon which you wish to base your PhD research.

However, entry requirements will differ depending on the university, so it is important to check the PhD eligibility requirements of the PhD and university that you are interested in studying at.

Applying without a masters

Some PhD courses will allow you to apply without a masters degree although you will need a bachelors degree. These are only usually offered as integrated masters and PhD programs which include a year of masters study before PhD.

Applying for a PhD as an international student  

If you are an international student applying to study a PhD in the UK, check the  visa requirements that you need to meet.

To apply for a PhD in the UK, international students need a Student Route visa.

The Student Route visa is a points-based visa system for all international students – including EU, EEA and Swiss students – who want to study in the UK. This has replaced the Tier 4 (General) student visa.

You can apply for a  student visa if you meet the following criteria:

  • You have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor.
  • You have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course.
  • You can speak, read, write and understand English – you may need to prove this through a recognised English language test.

Student visas can only be issued for certain courses, and if your course is eligible, your education provider (Student sponsor) will give you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) which you use to apply for a student visa.

The earliest you can apply for a student visa is six months before the start date of the course.

7. Check PhD fees and funding

Before committing to PhD study, it is important to check the PhD tuition fees and these will differ depending on the university and the course.

PhD tuition fees in the UK will be more expensive for international students than for home students. Tuition fees in the UK usually range from £3,000-£6,000 per year for home students and up to £18,000 per year for international students.

As a PhD student you will need to cover tuition fees, living expenses and any other unforeseen costs.

PhD scholarships and studentships are available, as is funding from various research councils, so make sure you investigate all your options and find out what financial help is available.

Funding your PhD

There are various funding options available to PhD students – here are the main ones:

University funding – some universities offer alumni funding support for students continuing their studies at their university. Check funding webpages for details.

PhD loans –  PhD loans are available from the  UK government .

PhD scholarships – many universities and companies offer  PhD scholarships , this includes our  Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries .

PhD studentships –  PhD studentships at your university are a great option as they usually include a stipend that covers full PhD tuition fees and some living costs.

Research councils – there are seven research councils in the UK that can provide funding for PhD students, these are:

  • Arts and Humanities Research Council
  • Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
  • Economic and Social Research Council
  • Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
  • Medical Research Council
  • Natural Environment Research Council
  • Science and Technology Facilities Council . 

Their funding can come as PhD studentships.

Self -funding – as a postgraduate student, you may have saved up money through work to enable you to  self-fund your PhD.

Don’t just apply to the standard big research funding bodies, but do your research and look into charities too. There are plenty of funds, foundations and other sources of money available to people with the right interests – and you might just be one of them!

8. Making your PhD application

Now you’ve done most of the preparation for your application, what about the actual application for a PhD? What does it involve?

When applying for a PhD, you usually apply directly to the university, rather than via a third party such as  UCAS .

PhD applications will differ from university to university, so check on the admissions page of the course you are interested in to make sure you include everything they ask for. You are likely to have to include:

  • Completed application form
  • Research proposal
  • Personal statement
  • Academic CV
  • Academic references
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Student visa documentation

Ideally, you should have already contacted your intended supervisor and talked about it with them, via email or perhaps in person. They will give you a run through of everything to include in your application to help ensure you don’t leave anything out by mistake. 

You should ensure that you’re not too modest in applying for a PhD! If you’ve been published in a relevant area, or if you did exceptionally well or presented a particularly successful paper at a conference, mention it. You don’t need to brag, but you shouldn’t hide your achievements either.

PhD interviews

Unlike with bachelors degrees and many masters degrees, you will probably need to have a PhD interview as part of your application. If you’ve not had a university interview before, make sure you prepare well for it.

Ideally, if you’re still in education, see if a tutor you know can give you tips, or potentially a mock interview. If not, many universities’ careers service will remain open to you after graduating,,so contact them and see what advice they can offer you. 

Ensure you read up on anything you mentioned in your application and have good solid reasons for why you wish to do a PhD, and why you’ve chosen to do it at in that particular topic  at that particular university.

You should already know by now  what it takes to study a PhD and be able to answer convincingly when asked about these things during your interview.

9. Submit your PhD application

  Now you’ve reached the final step – it’s time to submit your PhD application!

This is likely to be online, although it’s important to check this with your chosen university in case you need to send any hard copies of original certificates or documentation in the post.

Follow the university guidelines. They will usually indicate how to submit your application, what to include, and when you should hear back about the success of your PhD application.

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steps to a phd

  • How to Apply for a PhD – Application Process Explained
  • Applying to a PhD

This guide explains the PhD application process and outlines the steps you will need to follow, and information you will need to provide when applying to a PhD programme.

How to Apply for a PhD – Application Process

There is no single guide that can cover the entire application process for applying to PhDs, as it differs not only between universities, but also between programmes. In the same sense, what a supervisor might consider a strong application for one of their programmes, they may consider a weak application for another of their programmes.

Furthermore, the process of applying for a PhD in the UK can be slightly challenging to navigate as there is no centralised application system, as is the case with undergraduate degrees, and the process can vary from university to university.

Regardless of this, the below outlines the most common steps you will need to follow when applying for a PhD. Pay particular attention to each stage, as slipping on a single one of them can significantly affect your chances of securing the PhD you want.

1. Find Research Projects you like

Identify research areas that align with your research interest.

This should be done by thinking about all topics, courses, projects, recent publications, recurring questions or experiences that have caught your curiosity over the past year.

Once you have a better understanding of your preferred research area, browse through our PhD listings  or the ‘postgraduate research degree’ and ‘research centre’ sections of a university’s website if you already have a particular one in mind.

This is probably the most important thing to consider before you apply to PhD programmes given you will be working on your project for the next three to eight years – make sure not to rush it.

Note: If you intend to study part time or via distance learning, make sure to check the university offers this option as not all do.

2. Contact Potential PhD Supervisors

If you are proposing your own research project, which is usually the case with a self-funded postgraduate programme, you will need to find your own potential supervisor.

The best way to find a suitable PhD supervisor is to review the staff profiles on the department’s webpage and examine the topics they have published on in the past two years, as well as the research projects of the students they have supervised in the past. This will help you decide whether their research interests coincide with yours. Outside of research interests, there are other aspects you will want to look for, such as their level of support and patience, and how successful their former students have been. For further information on this, you can learn how to find a good PhD supervisor here .

If you are applying to a pre-determined research project, which is usually the case with funded programmes, you do not need to find a supervisor, as they already have a supervisor assigned to them.

Before you formally apply to funded PhD projects, most PhD supervisors will prefer you to apply informally by  sending them an email with your CV. This is so they can better understand your motives for applying and where your academic strengths lie before you start the formal application process.

3. Online Application Form

Once you have found a research programme you are interested in, most universities will require you to make a formal application via their online application portal. The below outlines the supporting documentation you will likely require when completing your online application form.

Academic Qualifications and Transcripts

If you have completed your studies, you will be asked to provide original or certified copies of your academic qualifications.

If you are still studying, you will need to provide an interim transcript of the grades you have received to date and details of any previous qualifications you have acquired.

Academic CV

An academic CV outlines your contact details, academic background and relevant experience. You can read our guide on how to prepare an effective academic CV  here .

Cover Letter

An academic cover letter can be requested alongside your CV. An academic cover letter explains why you are applying for the particular PhD project, why you are a strong candidate for the position and what you can offer the department as a research student. You can read our guide on how to prepare a strong cover letter  here .

Personal Statement

Instead of a cover letter, you may be asked to submit a personal statement. A personal statement is a short document describing your interest in the research programme and explaining why you believe you are suitable for it.

Research Proposal

Most universities will require you to submit a research proposal, especially if you are not applying to a pre-determined research project.

A research proposal is a short document describing your proposed research project. It outlines your research question, which topic it concerns and why you consider it valuable. It is used to show you have the potential for postgraduate-level research by showing that you can communicate complex ideas and evaluate them at their fundamental level. A research proposal also allows the academic department to match you with a suitable PhD supervisor with the expertise to support you if needed.

To support your application, you will be asked for an academic reference, ideally from one or more academic referees.

This is so the university has evidence from another academic source that you are a person who is capable of undertaking PhD study, not only in terms of your credentials and academic abilities but also in terms of your character, as someone who demonstrates commitment, perseverance, independence and the ability to communicate effectively.

To ensure the legitimacy of your references, universities often have strict requirements for how they are to be provided, such as requiring the use of official letterheads and original signatures from the reference provider. Therefore, you must check the specific requirements of each institution and forward them to your referee to minimise the risk of any rejections.

Other Supporting Information

Most online forms also have sections where you can upload any additional supporting information. This can include example evidence, such as previous papers you have published or conferences you have participated in.

Note that e xample evidence, especially of scientific research, is rarely required for STEM subjects

4. Entry Requirements

Academic qualifications.

The entry requirement for most UK universities is a 2:1 (Upper Second Class Honours) undergraduate degree, or equivalent qualification, in a relevant subject.

Note that while many universities require a Masters degree, not all do; it’s possible to  enrol in a PhD programme with just a Bachelors degree , as many students have successfully done so in the past.

In both cases, you will be asked to submit a copy of your degree certificate if you have completed your undergraduate study.

English Language Requirement

If you are an international student from a non-native English speaking country, most universities will require you to either meet their English language requirements or complete an English course with them before starting your PhD.

The two most common tests used to examine English language proficiencies for postgraduate study are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

Although the score requirements will vary depending on the course and institution, the typical requirements are:

  • IELTS – Overall score of 6.5, and no less than 6.0 in each test category.
  • TOELF – Overall score of 88.

International Applicant

If you’re an international student, you may need a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa to study in the UK. If this is the case, the university will require your passport details or a copy of your first page and photo page.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

5. Other Things to Keep in Mind

In most countries, including the UK, a PhD studentship starts in September or October of each academic year. However, it’s worth noting that most PhD projects are flexible and can therefore start at any time throughout the year.

Application Deadline

The deadline for a PhD position will be indicated in its advert description, however, you should apply to them as early as possible as a PhD position can sometimes be filled before its official closing date.

As well as monitoring the course deadline, also be aware of the closing dates of associated doctoral research funding opportunities. This is because some funded PhD projects require you to apply individually to both the course and the funding opportunity.

Standardised Tests

Depending on the type of doctorate you are applying for, you may need to take examinations as part of the application process.

While this is uncommon in the UK, most graduate schools in the US and Canada integrate standardised tests into their doctoral course admissions process, with minimum test scores set as an entry requirement for their PhD programs.

MPhil Registration First

In the UK, most PhD students first have to register for an MPhil ( Master of Philosophy ) for the first year of their studies, and only if they pass it, which usually requires the production of a report and an informal interview, will their course be upgraded to a PhD.

Making Several Applications

Unfortunately, for various reasons, you may not always get your preferred supervisor or research project, so it is best to apply for several projects on one or more research topics you interest you.

Please note that the application process for a professional doctorate, such as a DBA or EngD, is slightly different from the one mentioned in this guide . Therefore, please consult the guidelines of the university you wish to apply to before applying.

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What are the steps in getting a PhD?

August 22, 2023

Reading Time: 2–3 minutes

The work required to complete a PhD varies across academic disciplines and universities, though earning a PhD typically requires the following elements :

  • Completing coursework
  • Completing one or more doctoral residency experiences
  • Passing a comprehensive assessment or exam
  • Developing and completing an independent research project
  • Seeking approval of your completed dissertation manuscript

Here’s a closer look at each step.

With this primary step in the PhD process, you will participate in courses related to your field of study. The goal here is to develop deep subject-matter expertise.

You’ll also become familiar with the key topics, theories, methodologies and concerns related to your discipline. The skills and foundational knowledge you gain in your coursework will serve as the basis for generating potential research topics, such as those you will use in your dissertation.

Often offered virtually, residencies provide structure, training and detailed feedback to guide you as you develop your research plan and gather essential elements for your dissertation. Residences give you a chance to focus on specific study and activities related to preparing your dissertation.

You will connect with faculty and peers during this rigorous academic experience. They can help you focus your research plan by giving feedback and discussing relevant topics.

Your residency is where you can make significant progress on your dissertation, including selecting an acceptable topic and developing a robust proposal for the project.

Learn more about doctoral virtual residency .

Capella offers both PhD and professional doctorate programs. Here’s how they’re different .

Comprehensive assessment

The comprehensive assessment is where you demonstrate what you’ve learned and present your knowledge of the academic competencies required for your discipline. This examination may be oral, written or both.

Upon successfully completing this step in your doctoral journey, you should be prepared to begin work on your dissertation.

Learn more about the comprehensive exam .

Dissertation

A dissertation is a written compilation of your academic research and provides a detailed description of your project (typically a five-chapter document).

Most dissertations address a question or problem that has not been fully addressed within your field. Before you begin your independent research, other faculty experts representing your dissertation committee and the Institutional Review Board will assess the rigor and ethical underpinnings of your project.

Learn more about the dissertation .

Once the research and writing are complete, the dissertation must be approved by a faculty committee and the school dean.

There is a final defense involved in which you will answer questions about your research, analysis and conclusions.

In many fields, there are also specific professional standards expected of learners. For example, a PhD learner in a Counselor Education and Supervision program will be expected to meet the guidelines of the American Counseling Association.

Once all approvals have been received and you’ve successfully defended, you’ll publish your dissertation. You’ll have then completed all your program requirements and be conferred your PhD.

Capella University offers PhD and professional doctoral degree programs in a number of different fields:

  • Health Sciences
  • Information Technology
  • Social Work
  • Counseling & Therapy

Learn more about Capella’s online doctoral programs

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Your 8-Step Roadmap on Applying for a PhD

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8-Step Roadmap on How to Apply for a PhD

PhD aspirants handbook

Imagine this: you confidently cruise through the academic world, armed with a top-notch application, knowing you're about to start a journey where learning is super cool. Whether you just love to learn new things or dream of changing the world, our guide is your go-to plan for how to apply for a PhD! We're here to make your application journey super fun, from finding the right supervisors to discovering cool funding options. Ready for an awesome ride on how to apply for a PhD?

8 Easy Steps on How to Apply for a PhD

Discover the easy steps to follow your dream of getting a PhD. From selecting the right PhD program to crafting a compelling research proposal, our guide ensures that every facet of your Ph.D. application is finely tuned for success. Now, without any further ado, let's jump into this journey together with our 8-step roadmap on how to apply for a PhD program!

Step 1: Choosing Your Research Area

The first step on how to apply for a PhD abroad is to pick the area of research you're interested in. Here are some tips which you will encounter when choosing your research area:

1. Explore Subjects

One thing to remember at the time of how to apply for a PhD is that many PhDs cover a diverse range of topics that vary from Humanities and Arts to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). Each individual subject has its own set of research areas built into it.

2. Previous Qualifications

While having a relevant degree in the chosen field is beneficial for many PhD programs, it's not strictly mandatory. For instance, if you're pursuing a Master's in Political Science, you can still prefer applying for a PhD in Cultural Studies. The crucial factor is that your research interests should resonate with your previous experience. This alignment is essential as your PhD application undergoes scrutiny based on your past academic and professional background.

3. Think About Departments

At the time of selecting your best options, consider which department you would like to join to pursue your career in. There might be many choices in which you might get interested, such as History, Biology, Arts or Literature. Take enough time to research it and choose the option which suits your career path. Remember, choosing your research area is like picking the right puzzle piece—it should fit your passion and curiosity while applying for a PhD.

Step 2: Deciding Which Type of PhD You Want

Whenever you decide on applying for a PhD you want, you need to understand there are two main types of PhDs, i.e., predesigned projects and self-proposed projects. Now, let's break down these two main types of PhD programs in simple terms:

1. Predesigned Projects

Predesigned projects are like ready-made puzzles waiting for you to solve. These projects are already available at the time of applying for a PhD. Here's what you need to know about the different forms of predesigned projects. These projects come in three flavors:

  • Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) : These programs focus on specific research areas and often involve collaboration with industry partners.
  • Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) : DTPs offer interdisciplinary training and research opportunities.
  • iCASE : These projects provide the most industry experience, including internships.

You don’t need to worry about funding for predesigned projects, as these are usually fully funded for four years. Some predesigned projects even include an integrated Master's degree during the first year. The main advantage of applying for a PhD in a predesigned project is that you can skip the planning phase and directly jump straight into the research phase. Remember, competition can be fierce as multiple students apply for the same advertised PhD opportunity.

2. Self-Proposed Projects

Students who do not wish to pursue a predesigned project can opt for a self-proposed project or their research project for PhD study. This option turns out to be an excellent choice for students who want full control over their work in the research project. Imagine a self-proposed project as you design your adventure! Here's how self-proposed projects work:

  • Your Brainchild : You create your research topic and proposal. It's like crafting your unique puzzle piece.
  • Control : You have more say in shaping your work and direction as you have full control over the project.

While choosing self-proposed projects is advantageous for students, there's a potential drawback. Not all self-proposed PhD projects come with funding. You might need to find diverse funding options to offset the costs associated with PhD applications. Additionally, students can consider applying for part-time jobs and allocate the earnings towards their studies while applying for a PhD. Keep in mind that a PhD stands as the pinnacle of academic achievement bestowed upon a student, and there are many benefits of getting a PhD in foreign universities.

Step 3: Drafting a Research Proposal

Considering students in both cases, i.e. predesigned project and self-proposed project, you have to draft a research proposal after you complete your period of research. Though this draft will not be considered as your final draft for submission, drafting a research proposal is useful and comes in handy in some situations. Below are some pointers on how to write a PhD research proposal:

1. Title Your Research Question

2. abstract (optional), 3. background & rationale, 4. research aims & objectives, 5. research design and methodology, 6. timeline, find comfortable student accommodations in your dream city.

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Step 4: Contacting Potential Supervisors for a PhD

Once you’ve settled on your PhD project, conducted research, and drafted a research proposal, the next step is to reach out to potential supervisors. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when contacting potential supervisors for a PhD:

1. Research Your Potential Supervisor

Before you reach out to any potential supervisor, familiarise yourself with their research and publications. You need to understand their research interests and areas of interest. This can also be followed by exploring their academic profile on university websites or other platforms.

2. Craft a Formal Email

In most instances, communication occurs through email. It is crucial to ensure that your initial email maintains a professional and well-structured tone. Begin by stating a clear subject line, introducing yourself, conveying your interest in the research topic, expressing your intention to apply for a PhD, and concluding with courtesy.

3. For Predesigned Projects

The project advertisement will include the supervisor's name. Feel free to reach out to the supervisor via email or message to engage in a more detailed discussion about the research.

4. For Self-Proposed Projects

In this scenario, the responsibility lies with you to identify potential supervisors. Begin your search by exploring staff lists on university websites. When seeking a suitable supervisor, cast a wide net, considering both seasoned experts and emerging academics.

Step 5: Checking Entry Requirements

The next crucial step is to check the entry requirements of your selected institution or project you’re interested in. Below are mentioned some entry requirements responsible for different scenarios based on academics:

1. Master’s Degree (Usually)

Most PhD applicants typically hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field. However, some funded studentships may allow Bachelor’s graduates to apply.

2. Integrated Programmes

If you don’t have a Master’s, consider programs that include a year of Master’s level training before starting PhD research.

3. International Applicants

For international students, it's essential to review visa requirements while applying for a PhD. If you plan to study in the UK , you'll need a student route visa. To apply for the student visa, you must meet requirements such as obtaining confirmation of acceptance from a university, providing proof of adequate funds, and satisfying English language criteria. Be aware of any language exams or entry tests necessary for the visa process.

Step 6: Understanding Fees and Funding Options

As you’ve decided on the PhD opportunities you’re interested in and confirmed your eligibility, it’s essential to explore funding options. Here’s what you need to know about the financial aspects of pursuing a PhD:

1. Fully-Funded Studentships (Advertised Projects)

If you’re applying for a PhD in an advertised project, then in most cases, successful candidates receive full funding. Research Councils often provide this funding, but they have specific guidelines on usage and thesis submission deadlines.

2. Self-Proposed Projects and Research Council Funding

If you’re designing your own PhD, you’ll likely apply for Research Council funding. Keep in mind that funding for self-proposed projects is limited, and some applications may be unsuccessful.

3. Other Potential Sources of Funding

Explore various funding options, including those offered by your selected universities, ranging from fee discounts to full studentships. Independent organisations might offer partial or full funding for PhD students whose research aligns with their interests. Additionally, the UK government provides doctoral loans for English and Welsh PhD students, with repayments triggered once your income surpasses a specific threshold. Many scholarships in the UK help students while they pursue their PhD.

Step 7: Application Deadlines

Up until now, you must have understood all the aspects of a PhD study, but the most important thing to consider is to note down the PhD application deadlines for each university. Some universities have different deadlines, especially if you’re applying for a PhD funding. Just aim to submit your application well in advance to account for any challenges that might arise during the paperwork. 

Checklist of Required Documents

Gather the necessary documents based on the university and funding you’re applying for a PhD. If you’re an international student, you may need to show proof of language proficiency, funds, and student visa eligibility. Some of the common documents you need at the time of how to apply for a PhD:

  • CV : Highlight your academic and professional background.
  • Personal Statement : Explain your motivation and research interests.
  • Research Proposal : Outline your research question and approach.
  • Referee Details : Contact at least two referees in advance. ‍
  • Academic Transcript : Provide your educational history.

Step 8: Submit Your Application

Once you've compiled all necessary documents (CV, personal statement, research proposal, etc.) and arranged them, proceed to submit your application through the university's application portal. Many universities provide an online portal dedicated to PhD applications, allowing you to initiate your application and save your progress for future completion. If you prefer applying for a PhD funding separately, you can do so through research council funding, often integrated into the university's application. For alternative funding sources, refer to the specific application process outlined on the funder's website.

As we wrap up this exhilarating journey through the 8-step roadmap to how to apply for a PhD, take a moment to pat yourself on the back.  You've not only gained insights about applying for a PhD but have also uncovered the secrets to finding the perfect supervisors and securing the funding you need. Remember, applying for a PhD is a significant step, so take your time and prepare thoroughly. Now, go forth, shine bright, and let your journey to PhD greatness begin!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do i start when considering how to apply for a phd, what documents are typically required at the time of applying for a phd, is there an online application portal while applying for a phd program, are there specific language proficiency requirements for international applicants while applying for a phd, what funding options are available for phd students while applying for a phd.

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How to Apply for a PhD in the US

Last Updated: January 18, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Carrie Adkins, PhD . Carrie Adkins is the cofounder of NursingClio, an open access, peer-reviewed, collaborative blog that connects historical scholarship to current issues in gender and medicine. She completed her PhD in American History at the University of Oregon in 2013. While completing her PhD, she earned numerous competitive research grants, teaching fellowships, and writing awards. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 20 testimonials and 96% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 629,358 times.

Getting a PhD is a challenging undertaking that takes years to achieve. It can also be an incredibly rewarding experience: you'll become a true expert in your field, and you'll be able to apply for a number of interesting jobs, including academic ones. If you're considering a PhD, start by figuring out which programs best fit your needs (they may not always be the ones at the biggest or most prestigious schools). Once you know what those programs are, you can tailor your materials accordingly and put together the best possible application packages.

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Researching Schools and Programs

Step 1 Identify your research interests.

  • Keep in mind that it is not necessary for you to have a dissertation topic already chosen or even to have an extremely specific research focus. At this stage, you should just have a general idea of what you want to study and why. For example, if you are considering a PhD in English, then you should at least have an idea of the literary period that you wish to focus on.

Step 2 Search for programs that suit your needs.

  • For example, if you are planning to pursue a PhD in Chemistry, then you should find out more about the lab facilities at the university that you are considering.
  • Try to identify as many potential schools as you can. Graduate school is competitive and you will have a better chance of getting accepted if you submit multiple applications.

Step 3 Identify professors whose research interests you.

  • Keep in mind that you may be working closely with the professor(s) you identify, so it is important to select professors who you really admire and whose research genuinely interests you.

Step 4 Look for funding opportunities.

  • Keep in mind that funding opportunities are competitive. Putting forth a strong application may increase your chances of getting funding, but there are no guarantees.

"Even then, you need a back-up plan (or two or three) before you commit years of your life to a PhD."

Carrie Adkins, PhD

Carrie Adkins, PhD

Step 6 Consider other factors.

  • Location. If you plan to return to your home country during breaks, then some schools may make the trip home less time consuming than others. For example, if you will be flying back to India at the end of each school year, then choosing a school closer to one of the US coasts will make traveling easier than flying out of the Midwest. Keep in mind that it is not a good idea to select a school based solely on location. This will severely limit your choices.
  • Cost of living. Some US college towns can be quite expensive, which can make it hard to get by on your student stipend. Look into the average cost of housing, food, and other expenses in the university areas where you plan to apply.
  • Extracurricular opportunities. Clubs can other types of groups can make the transition to a US university a bit easier. Many schools have clubs for people from certain countries, who speak certain languages, or who share other interests. Check out the extracurricular opportunities that are available at the universities you are considering.

Meeting the Basic Requirements

Step 1 Obtain the appropriate degrees.

  • Taking the GRE three to six months in advance is a good idea. You may even want to take it about year before you plan to apply, just in case you do not get a good score and you need to retake it.

Step 3 Take the TOEFL or IELTS.

  • Score requirements vary by university, so check with each university to learn the score requirements before you apply. For TOEFL, you need to have at least a 600 on the paper-based test OR above a 95 to 100 on the internet-based test. For IELTS, you need to have above a 7.0 to 7.5.

Step 4 Ensure that you can afford the fees.

  • For example, if you plan to apply to 20 different programs, then you will need to ensure that you have about $2,000 for the application fees.
  • Keep in mind that the fees may vary drastically among schools. More prestigious schools may charge higher application fees than less prestigious schools.

Step 5 Compare special requirements for different schools.

  • For example, some programs require applicants to answer a specific question or set of questions in the statement of purpose.

Step 6 Request letters of recommendation.

  • For example, it would be better to ask a professor in your discipline than someone who taught an elective class that you enjoyed.
  • Having one letter of recommendation from an administrator or employer can be helpful to show a different perspective of your academic goals. For example, you might ask your department’s chairperson, one of the university’s deans, or a current or former boss. As with the professors you ask, the administrator who recommends you should be someone who will give you a glowing recommendation.

Step 7 Order transcripts.

  • Keep in mind that most schools require official transcripts.
  • Sending transcripts may or may not require you to pay fees, depending on your university’s policies.

Step 8 Choose a writing sample (if required).

  • If you have a piece that has been published, then this is an especially great choice for the writing sample, but unpublished pieces are fine as well.

Writing Your Statement of Purpose

Step 1 Check for special requirements before you start to write.

  • You may want to write one “basic” SOP and then alter or add to it as needed based on the special requirements of each university.

Step 2 Provide a bit of background.

  • For example, you might say something like, “Since I was a child, I had a passion for the natural world, and this passion led me to my desire to become a biologist.”

Step 3 Talk about your preparation for a doctoral program.

  • For example, you might say something like, “As an undergrad, I participated in on-campus research expos and even attended a local conference. Then, during my MA program, I had an article accepted to Biology Quarterly and presented at a national conference.” [2] X Research source
  • You can also talk about specific courses you took, professors who have supervised your work, and research that you conducted during your BA and MA programs.

Step 4 Explain the types of contributions you would like to make.

  • For example, you might say something like, “I hope to develop a new process for growing corn.”

Step 5 Mention professors with whom you would like to work and explain why.

  • Try reading each professor’s biography on the university website. You may also consider reading one of these professors’ publications, such as an article or book.
  • Try saying something like, “I hope to work with Professor Jones because she and I share a similar interest in botany.”

Step 6 Use examples to illustrate your points.

  • Make sure that you include examples throughout your entire SOP.

Submitting Your Application Packets

Step 1 Complete online application components.

  • Some schools also require letters of recommendation to be submitted via an online system. You may need to submit your recommenders email addresses so that they can access this system.

Step 2 Prepare your application items to mail.

  • Address the packets. Make sure that you double check the addresses for each of your packets to ensure that they will be delivered to the correct location.
  • Pay for postage. International postage can be quite expensive, so make sure that you reserve some money to pay for this cost. Pay the postage for each of your packets and send them out.

Step 3 Wait for responses.

What Are The Main Reasons People Go To Graduate School?

Expert Q&A

Carrie Adkins, PhD

  • Even if a university is unable to provide you with direct funding or a scholarship, there may be other opportunities for you to earn an income while you are there, such as research assistantships. Look into this before turning down an offer from a university you might otherwise want to attend. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
  • Once you are done with everything, do not forget to thank everybody who helped you, especially the referees who wrote letters of recommendation. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
  • Gaining some sort of research or work experience in the field you plan to apply to will greatly improve your chances of admission. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

steps to a phd

  • Keep your address consistent throughout - do not abbreviate or introduce variations. This makes it all the more difficult for the graduate office to file your documents. Thanks Helpful 18 Not Helpful 5
  • Use a reliable courier service to send documents to universities - FedEx, DHL, UPS, etc. Do not use a service for which you cannot track your package. Thanks Helpful 15 Not Helpful 7

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  • ↑ http://grad.berkeley.edu/admissions/apply/statement-purpose/

About This Article

Carrie Adkins, PhD

To apply for a Ph.D. in the US, earn a Bachelor’s degree and take the GRE, or Graduate Record Examination. Then, carefully read the application instructions of each school to increase your odds of getting accepted. In the mean time, request letters of recommendation from professors in your discipline or an employer. You will also need to have your transcripts on hand, and to write a statement of purpose. For tips on writing a great statement of purpose and nailing the rest of the process, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Steps to a PhD

Group photo of the graduating class of 2023 with faculty in their commencement regalia.

Some of our graduates at spring 2023 commencement,along with professors Friedrich Sommer, Dan Feldman, Michael Silver, Joni Wallis, Marla Feller, and Ehud Isacoff. Photo by  GradImages (link is external) .

Neuroscience is a broad field that requires multidisciplinary training as well as intensive study of specific concepts and techniques related to each student’s primary research focus. The Neuroscience PhD Program is designed to provide highly individualized, flexible training that fulfills both these needs. Our PhD training program has a standard completion time of 5.5 to 6 years.  The program is PhD-granting only, there is no master’s degree program.  The following is a general overview of the steps to a Neuroscience PhD at UC Berkeley. For detailed policies, see  Resources For Current Students

First-year students begin the program with an intensive, 10-day “Neuro Camp” course held just prior to the official start of fall semester classes. The course features lectures on key neuroscience concepts and on classical and emerging experimental techniques and research seminars by Berkeley Neuroscience faculty. In addition, hands-on research projects in faculty laboratories cover techniques ranging from molecular neuroscience to neurophysiology and optogenetics to fMRI. The goal is to provide an immersive introduction to multiple disciplines and experimental approaches within neuroscience. Our Neuro Camp unites neuroscience-oriented students from multiple PhD programs.

Laboratory Rotations

During Year 1, each student spends three 10-week periods performing research projects in different faculty laboratories. The choice of laboratories is based on student preference. The goal is to expose students to different techniques and approaches in neuroscience and to provide training in experimental design, critical analysis of data, and presentation of research findings. Performance in rotations is evaluated and graded. Rotations also allow students to identify the laboratory in which their thesis research will be performed. Students formally present results from the laboratory rotations in a dedicated course designed to instruct students in clear, effective presentation of scientific findings.

The program has highly flexible course requirements. These are designed to provide students with sufficiently broad training in all areas of neuroscience, while allowing focus in the area of primary research interest.

During the first two years of the program, each student is required to take one course in each of three broad areas: (A) Cellular, Molecular & Developmental Neuroscience; (B) Systems and Computational Neuroscience; and (C) Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience. Each student consults with faculty advisers to determine the most appropriate individual courses within these areas.

Students must also complete a one-semester course in Applied Statistics in Neuroscience, or an equivalent approved course in statistics or quantitative analysis methods, as well as one elective course. 

For additional details, see the Neuroscience Course Curriculum.

Training in Teaching 

Effective teaching is a critical skill required in most academic and research careers. Students are required to serve as Graduate Student Instructors (GSIs; also knows as Teaching Assistants) for two semesters. GSI teaching occurs during Years 2 and 3 and provides supervised teaching experience in laboratory and discussion settings. Teaching is evaluated, and outstanding teaching is rewarded with annual Outstanding Graduate Student Instructor Awards. One to three of our students typically win this award each year.

Qualifying Examination

Students complete an Oral Qualifying Exam during the spring semester of Year 2. This exam is structured around a written thesis proposal and oral examination on this proposal, related research areas, and foundational questions in neuroscience. During the exam, a faculty committee tests the student’s knowledge of these areas and general neuroscience. Students must demonstrate the ability to recognize important research problems, propose relevant experimental approaches, and display comprehensive knowledge of relevant subjects. Students must pass the qualifying examination before advancing to doctoral candidacy.

Thesis Research

Thesis research begins after the completion of rotations in spring or summer of Year 1. During Year 2, students conduct thesis research while completing required coursework and GSI teaching. Years 3 to 5 are spent primarily on thesis research. Progress on thesis research is evaluated by the student, the thesis advisor, and a Thesis Committee of three additional faculty members. Thesis research is expected to lead to publication in top-ranked, refereed scientific journals. Students are strongly encouraged to present posters and speak at scientific meetings and conferences. During Year 4, they make a formal presentation of their research progress to their peers. Completion of thesis research is determined by the Thesis Committee. While there is no formal thesis defense, students present a formal thesis seminar to the neuroscience community in their last semester of candidacy.

Other Program Activities

During training, students are expected to participate in a range of activities to increase their exposure to neuroscience research within and outside their specialty areas. These include the annual Neuroscience Conference, the Neuroscience Seminar Series, as well as other affiliated seminar series and lectures. Students also participate in journal clubs, lab meetings, and multi-laboratory special interest group meetings focused on specific scientific topics. See Program Activities for a comprehensive list.

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PhD Steps to Degree

Steps toward graduation.

Remember to see the PhD Requirements for the rules of each step. You will need to follow these steps along the path to the PhD.

  • (A) Complete the Background Coursework Requirements.
  • (B) Before enrolling in your 2nd semester find a supervising professor and identify a research area. Initially you will not have a specific topic. You also might choose to change topics and/or faculty supervisors a few times. Please be aware that too many changes delays your degree and at some point would be considered unsatisfactory progress by the department.
  • (C) Enroll in at least 1 conference course (CS 395) each semester until admission to candidacy. The CS 395 is supervised each semester by your research supervisor. Your first semester, CS 398T takes the place of the conference course.
  • (D) Choose 3 depth courses in consultation with your faculty research supervisor. Choose courses designed to prepare you for the research you plan to do, at most one of theses courses can be taken outside the CS department.
  • (E) Complete your Diversity Program,
  • (F) Schedule a Research Preparation Exam by the end of the 3 rd year.
  • Submit a Research Qualification (RQ) Document to the Graduate Office by the end of the 3rd year in the PhD program.
  • Write and present your Dissertation Proposal and Advance to Candidacy.
  • Schedule and Pass the Final Defense
  • Submit the Dissertation to the Graduate School - you must follow the Graduate School's rules in preparing your dissertation.

Throughout this process, feedback from your research supervisor and from the faculty as a whole will be very important to you. The CS Graduate Studies Committee (GSC) meets at the beginning of each semester. The GSC is composed of all the CS faculty and a few faculty from other departments who supervise research of CS PhD students.  At those meetings, Research Qualification (RQ) proposals are reviewed and approved and the progress of PhD students is evaluated. Students will be informed if their performance is not satisfactory. Any student whose progress is deemed unsatisfactory for two consecutive semesters will be terminated from the PhD program.

A CS PhD student is eligible to receive the MSCS degree upon completion of all Graduate School requirements for the Master's degree. Check the MSCS degree requirements if you wish to pursue this option.

The 99 Hour Rule

The "99 hour rule" refers to the implementation of Senate Bill 961, passed by the Seventy-fifth Legislature. It is the rule that students at UT Austin with over 99 doctoral hours may be subject to the payment of nonresident tuition. http://www.utexas.edu/ogs/publications/policies/99in99.html 

Special Doctoral Travel Support

PhD students may apply for travel grants from a departmental fund allocated to support their travel to present papers at conferences.  The graduate office calls for the travel requests about 6 weeks into each semester. To apply for the grant:

  • Print the "Application for Graduate Student Travel Support" form listed in the Forms Bank . Type or print your information on the form. Obtain the signature of your faculty adviser. Sign the form.
  • Turn in the form to CS Graduate Office in GDC 2.728
  • At least 2 weeks prior to travel, complete the required online Request for Travel Authorization (RTA) and the additional required forms linked to on the RTA page.

Travel Information for Graduate Students

The university has put into place a travel policy for all students traveling abroad.  Please see http://world.utexas.edu/abroad/itr for more information on the policy and http://world.utexas.edu/abroad/itr/authorization for the steps necessary to obtain travel authorization outside the U.S.

Required for all travel and reimbursement

Request for Travel Authorization (RTA) must be submitted at least two weeks before travel.  Please contact the CS accounting office, [email protected] , if you have any questions regarding this electronic form.

Original, itemized, travel receipts showing proof of payment.  These are needed to receive reimbursement.  If you have any questions on what is required please contact the CS accounting office, [email protected] .

Graduate Student Travel Support

If you wish to apply for CS department travel funding please submit an Application for Graduate Student Travel Support, found in the Forms Bank.   Follow the department deadlines announced by the CS graduate office for submitting the Application for Graduate Student Travel Support.  Applications are usually due late September, late February, and late May.

Please do not request travel support from the department if you are already receiving travel support from your research area.  If the support you expect to receive is directly from your research supervisor or another source, like the conference, you may submit a travel support request.  Please indicate on the request if you are receiving other funding and the amount of that funding.

Professional Development Awards

The department receives some funding for graduate student travel from your dean’s office, the graduate school. They call these Professional Development Awards. We consider that part of the total funding we can award to students and combine it with the departmental travel monies; however, if you receive this the CS graduate office will contact you to complete the graduate school’s required form, http://www.utexas.edu/ogs/funding/travel.html .

Students who decide not to use awarded funds should notify the graduate office at [email protected] immediately. Timely notification allows the funds to be redistributed to other students.

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Doctoral degree steps to completion, director, graduate student support & associate registrar.

Eva Bachman

Eva Bachman Office of Graduate Studies

Throughout these steps to degree completion, Eva will be answering your questions and reviewing your materials.

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  • Academic Leave Form
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NOTE: Departments may have earlier deadlines. Please check with your advisor or graduate handbook.

  • What to submit: Appointment of Supervisory Committee form
  • When to submit: Prior to completing half of the coursework, including transfer hours, but excluding research or language tools.
  • Who to submit to: Doctoral Programs Coordinator

You will be notified by email when your committee is approved.

For full policy, see Supervisory Committee in the Graduate Catalog.

  • What to submit: Program of Studies form

Note: Program of Study forms will not be accepted unless an Appointment of Supervisory Committee form has been submitted.

NOTE: Requests to change an approved Program of Studies must be submitted by the student’s major advisor via email to the Doctoral Programs Coordinator . DO NOT submit a new Program of Studies.

For full policy, see Program of Studies in the Graduate Catalog.

For full policy, see Academic Residency in the Graduate Catalog.

Academic residency requirement must be satisfied before you schedule your final oral examination (defense). The Doctoral Programs Coordinator will note this on your Program of Studies.

Changes to approved Program of Studies must be submitted to the Doctoral Programs Coordinator using the Program Change Form.

For full policy, see Comprehensive Examination in the Graduate Catalog.

Note: be aware of deadlines for Application for Candidacy. See Candidacy section for more details.

Student must pass a written comprehensive examination in the major and minor fields of study. At the discretion of the supervisory committee, an oral comprehensive examination may also be required. The Supervisory Committee arranges for comprehensive examinations at least seven months prior to the final oral examination (defense).

  • What to submit: Application for Admission to Candidacy form
  • When to submit: After successful completion of the comprehensive examination, no later than date TBD

For full policy, including registration requirements, see Comprehensive Examination and Candidacy in the Graduate Catalog.

The comprehensive examination must be completed at least 7 months prior to graduation.

The Application for Admission to Candidacy form must be submitted when language and research tool requirements have been met and the comprehensive examination(s) have been passed.

  • Complete the Application for Graduation in MyRED .
  • All students must complete the Hooding Participation form.
  • When to submit: The Application for Graduation and Hooding Participation form must be completed no later than: date TBD
  • The online Application for Graduation will become available in MyRED the semester following Admission to Candidacy.

Failure to complete these steps will result in a diploma not being ordered for you and your graduation date will be postponed.

Form: Hooding Participation

  • What to submit: Application for Final Oral Examination form, with signatures of the two readers, supervisory committee chair(s), your department’s graduate program chair.

Last day to hold Final Oral Examination: date TBD

For full policy see Final Oral Examination in the Graduate Catalog.

  • What to submit: full dissertation/document rough draft, including title page and abstract.

The formatting will be reviewed and students will be notified of any needed changes. No content will be reviewed. Any formatting changes must be made prior to final dissertation deposit.

  • When to submit: Submit Rough draft with Application for Final Oral Examination at least 2 weeks prior to Final Oral Examination. Last date to submit the Application for Final Oral Examination: date TBD

For full policy see Dissertation in the Graduate Catalog.

  • Formatting resource: Preparing a Dissertation .
  • Following approval by the major advisor, the dissertation and abstract should be presented to the Reading Committee for review at least four weeks prior to the oral examination (defense).
  • What to submit: Final and complete dissertation as a PDF
  • When to submit: after successful completion of your final oral examination, and no later than date TBD

Student will be notified when dissertation has been approved for upload to ProQuest (required) and UNL Digital Commons (optional).

For full policy see Dissertation and Final Oral Examination in the Graduate Catalog.

ProQuest will recognize you are a UNL student and not require payment for basic upload. If placing an embargo, ProQuest will delay distribution of your dissertation. You will need to be specific about the length of time.

If requesting copyright registration through ProQuest, complete the additional ProQuest form and pay the associated fee.

  • When to submit: After final formatting approval has been given by Graduate Studies. No later than: date TBD
  • Who to submit to: ProQuest
  • While immediate publication in both ProQuest and the UNL Digital Commons is recommended, there is an option to temporarily restrict access to dissertations, known as embargoing .
  • Dissertations will be uploaded to UNL Digital Commons as well as to ProQuest, unless an embargo is requested.
  • If you choose to embargo your dissertation, it will be uploaded to ProQuest on the embargo expiry date, but not to the UNL Digital Commons unless otherwise requested.
  • Upload only after approval by Graduate Studies.
  • What to submit: Doctoral deposit fee - $25.00 (required)
  • When to submit: No later than: date TBD
  • How to submit: Paid in MyRED (To-do list) by credit or debit card.

NOTE: This payment is not part of your student account. You will receive email confirmation of this payment.

NOTE: A majority of the committee must be in attendance and sign the Report of Completion form.

NOTE: Abstracts must be submitted in the exact format as your dissertation/document, including your title, university, name, etc.

  • When to submit: After your defense and no later than: date TBD
  • Who to submit to: Upload Report of Completion & Abstract here

Note: Ph.D. students must complete the Survey of Earned Doctorates . The Doctoral Programs Coordinator will automatically receive a notice of completion.

Note: Committee Chairs are responsible for submitting final 999 grades. Submit outstanding incomplete/no report grades for 999 credits by following this link: Thesis/Dissertation Grade Change

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Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

steps to a phd

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

steps to a phd

Verywell / Evan Polenghi

Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.

Job opportunities, earning a degree, specialty areas, alternatives.

Getting a Ph.D. in psychology can open up a whole new world of career opportunities. For many careers paths in psychology-related career paths, a doctoral degree is necessary to obtain work and certification. A Ph.D. is one option, but it is not the only educational path that's available to reach some of these goals.

A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is one of the highest level degrees you can earn in the field of psychology . If you're considering pursuing a graduate degree, you might be wondering how long it takes to earn a Ph.D. in psychology . Generally, a bachelor's degree takes four years of study. While a master's degree requires an additional two to three years of study beyond the bachelor's, a doctoral degree can take between four to six years of additional graduate study after earning your bachelor's degree.

Recently, a new degree option known as the Psy.D. , or doctor of psychology, has grown in popularity as an alternative to the Ph.D. The type of degree you decide to pursue depends on a variety of factors, including your own interests and your career aspirations.

Before deciding which is right for you, research your options and decide if graduate school in psychology is even the best choice for you. Depending on your career goals, you might need to earn a master's or doctoral degree in psychology in order to practice in your chosen field. In other instances, a degree in a similar subject such as counseling or social work may be more appropriate.

A doctorate in psychology is required if you want to open your own private practice.

If you want to become a licensed psychologist, you must earn either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology.

In most cases, you will also need a doctorate if you want to teach and conduct research at the college or university level. While there are some opportunities available for people with a master's degree in various specialty fields, such as industrial-organizational psychology and health psychology , those with a doctorate will generally find higher pay, greater job demand, and more opportunity for growth.

In order to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, you need to first begin by earning your bachelor's degree. While earning your undergraduate degree in psychology can be helpful, students with bachelor's degrees in other subjects can also apply their knowledge to psychology Ph.D. programs . Some students in doctorate programs may have a master's degree in psychology , but most doctorate programs do not require it.

After you’ve been admitted to a graduate program, it generally takes at least four years to earn a Ph.D. and another year to complete an internship. Once these requirements have been fulfilled, you can take state and national exams to become licensed to practice psychology in the state where you wish to work.

Once you enter the graduate level of psychology, you will need to choose an area of specialization, such as clinical psychology , counseling psychology, health psychology, or cognitive psychology . The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits graduate programs in three areas: clinical, counseling, and school psychology.   If you are interested in going into one of these specialty areas, it's important to choose a school that has received accreditation through the APA.

For many students, the choice may come down to a clinical psychology program versus a counseling psychology program. There are many similarities between these two Ph.D. options, but there are important distinctions that students should consider. Clinical programs may have more of a research focus while counseling programs tend to focus more on professional practice. The path you choose will depend largely on what you plan to do after you complete your degree.

Of course, the Ph.D. in psychology is not the only graduate degree option. The Psy.D. is a doctorate degree option that you might also want to consider. While there are many similarities between these two degrees, traditional Ph.D. programs tend to be more research-oriented while Psy.D. programs are often more practice-oriented.

The Ph.D. option may be your top choice if you want to mix professional practice with teaching and research, while the Psy.D. option may be preferred if you want to open your own private psychology practice.

In the book "An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology," authors John C. Norcross and Michael A. Sayette suggest that one of the key differences between the two-degree options is that the Ph.D. programs train producers of research while Psy.D. programs train consumers of research. However, professional opportunities for practice are very similar with both degree types.

Research suggests that there are few discernible differences in terms of professional recognition, employment opportunities, or clinical skills between students trained in the Ph.D. or Psy.D. models. One of the few differences is that those with a Ph.D. degree are far more likely to be employed in academic settings and medical schools.

Social work, counseling, education, and the health sciences are other graduate options that you may want to consider if you decide that a doctorate degree is not the best fit for your interests and career goals.

A Word From Verywell

If you are considering a Ph.D. in psychology, spend some time carefully researching your options and thinking about your future goals. A doctoral degree is a major commitment of time, resources, and effort, so it is worth it to take time to consider the right option for your goals. The Ph.D. in psychology can be a great choice if you are interested in being a scientist-practitioner in the field and want to combine doing research with professional practice. It's also great training if you're interested in working at a university where you would teach classes and conduct research on psychological topics.

University of Pennsylvania; School of Arts and Sciences. Information for applicants .

American Psychological Association. Doctoral degrees in psychology: How are they different, or not so different?

U.S. Department of Labor.  Psychologists . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Norcross JC, Sayette MA. An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (2020/2021 ed.) . New York, NY: The Guilford Press; 2020.

Davis SF, Giordano PJ, Licht CA. Your Career in Psychology: Putting Your Graduate Degree to Work . John Wiley & Sons; 2012. doi:10.1002/9781444315929

US Department of Education. Bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by sex of student and discipline division: 2016-17 .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Writing Clear Science

Learn to write clearly and succinctly, without sacrificing the accuracy of your topic..

Writing Clear Science

10 stages of the PhD journey: advice from many experts

steps to a phd

Designing, executing and writing up a PhD study takes a large chunk of your time and energy. Here is an overview of each stage of the PhD journey, along with links to excellent articles that will help you along the way. Some of the advice offered here may be specific to a discipline, country or university, or may be heavily dependent upon some author’s experience and background. Nevertheless, you are likely to find most of this advice and instruction helpful.

steps to a phd

It is important to seriously consider why you are undertaking a PhD and what you hope to achieve by completing a PhD. Completing a PhD can be extremely useful even for those who may not continue doing research later on.

steps to a phd

2. Write a research proposal 

You might be offered a PhD project where the research proposal is already planned or you might need to devise a research proposal yourself, either before or after you have chosen a supervisor. This proposal and confirmation of candidature will need to be approved by your university’s research committee.

steps to a phd

3. Choose a PhD supervisor

Some students have one key supervisor with one or two additional supervisors, while it is not unusual for some students to have three or four. It is important to remember that your supervisor may have many students under their direction, so their time may be strictly limited. At Monash University, research supervisors receive accreditation training .

steps to a phd

4. Design your project budget

An essential project management skill when conducting research is the ability to effectively design and manage research budgets. If you need to request finances through a grant application, ensure you thoroughly investigate the necessary guidelines.

steps to a phd

5. Start writing in the early stages of your project

Don’t wait until you have collected and analysed your data before you start writing. Most universities encourage students to write about their project while they are conducting their research. Project proposals can be rewritten and methods sections developed as data is collected and analysed. Literature reviews can be updated and conference talks and posters can be prepared even before you have started to collect data. 

steps to a phd

6. Consider the structure and the format of your thesis

Exactly how to structure and format your thesis will vary greatly depending upon your project, your discipline, your department and your university and your discipline. Always refer to your university’s guidelines for thesis format requirements. For example:

How to find completed PhD theses

It is always a good idea to check other PhD theses that are similar to your topic, have been completed recently and have been produced by your university department. You can gain a wealth of ideas about structure, size and overall thesis design.

And on this page, there are other useful inks:

*   Australian & New Zealand Universities – Institutional Repository Contacts

How to write a literature review

Reviewing the literature is important to assist your knowledge and understanding of your topic and integral to establishing your position in the academic landscape. Writing good literature reviews is crucial to show your examiners how well you know the literature and how well you are able to explain the importance of your project. It is a common requirement that you write a separate chapter as a stand-alone literature review. However, for those theses that are predominantly composed of complete published papers, there might not be a requirement for a separate review section.

steps to a phd

7. Get feedback on your writing

In addition to your supervisor, seek feedback on different aspects of your writing from appropriate advisors: accuracy, clarity and brevity. Increasingly, projects are written for a variety of aim to get academic audiences so ensure that your writing is clear and succinct.

*   Getting Feedback – University of North Carolina (USA)

steps to a phd

8. Learn how to publish peer-review papers

Increasingly, students are expected to submit a large proportion of their thesis as published papers. Not every PhD project can be easily prepared as separate papers; however, remember to look at recently submitted theses within your discipline and within your department to see how people have completed their thesis.

steps to a phd

9. Submit your thesis

The process of submitting your thesis may include preparing additional tasks and preparation of paperwork (i.e. the Originality Statement).

steps to a phd

10. Understand the examination process

Usually there are three examiners. However, the process of thesis examination will vary widely according to discipline and university. Broadly speaking, your examiners will recommend that your thesis be accepted without alteration, accepted with minor alteration, accepted providing major changes are made or rejected. Usually your supervisor will choose who your examiners are and you may have the opportunity to choose one of your examiners.

steps to a phd

If there are any problems...

Most problems with your project are surmountable and remember that your supervisors and your university are there to help you. If things go drastically wrong at any time, it is essential that you seek assistance as early as possible. There are people within your university administration who are there to help you. To help dealing with problems, document any issues as they arise. It is essential for you to have excellent time-management and record-keeping skills.

steps to a phd

and remember...

© Dr Marina Hurley 2019 www.writingclearscience.com.au

Any suggestions or comments please email [email protected] 

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How to get a PhD

How to get a PhD

Study tips Published 5 Apr, 2022  ·  4-minute read

Trying to wrap your head around how PhD programs work? We don’t blame you. Sometimes it feels like you need a PhD just to figure out how to get a PhD.

So, with a little help from our academics and some UQ PhD candidates, we’ve broken down the application and preparation process into 10 manageable steps:

  • Complete prior research
  • Choose your topic
  • Find a PhD supervisor
  • Write your PhD proposal
  • Identify potential scholarships
  • Gather required documents and apply
  • Determine if you'll continue working during your PhD
  • Calculate how long you’ll be researching your PhD
  • Develop the traits and behaviours of a good PhD student
  • Apply and get accepted

Let’s discuss how to get a PhD in Australia – from choosing your topic to getting stuck into the actual research.

1. Complete prior research (if necessary)

You don’t necessarily need a master’s degree to start a PhD. However, you do need to have completed extensive research. This might involve an academic research program (such as a bachelor's degree with an honours year or a Master of Philosophy ), research conducted in your professional career, or a combination of both. The important thing is that you can demonstrate experience in conducting effective research, as this is a key part of the PhD selection criteria.

Learn more about doing a PhD without a master's degree

2. Choose your topic

Whether you’re developing a thesis on a topic you’ve already worked on or branching out into a new area of interest, you’ll want to know early what kind of topic you want to research for your PhD. Finding a niche that sparks your curiosity is important for ensuring you’ll stay inspired during the 3+ years ahead.

Keep in mind that you generally have two options here. You can complete a PhD by:

  • joining an existing research project in an area that interests you 
  • start a fresh research project that aligns with your specific goals.

Get tips for choosing your PhD topic or explore available research projects at UQ

3. Find a PhD supervisor

One of the essential steps to consider when thinking about how to get a PhD is finding someone to guide you through the process.

Approaching academics about your PhD can be intimidating, but shortlisting and selecting the most appropriate person / team to supervise your research project is important. By choosing your mentor carefully, you can ensure you’ve got someone in your corner who understands your research, has relevant expertise, and will be there to support you throughout your journey.

Learn how to find the right PhD supervisor

4. Write your PhD proposal

Check with your supervisor to see if they require a formal PhD proposal (most will, but not all). If so, with their guidance, it’s time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard).

Even if your supervisor doesn't explicitly ask for one, a PhD proposal is a valuable document for outlining the scope of your research and giving your project its initial momentum – so it might be worth writing one either way.

Learn how to write a good PhD proposal

5. Identify potential scholarships

Dedicating yourself to research sometimes means sacrificing your income in the short term, though it can lead to more financial security in the long term . To help support yourself during your studies, you can apply for PhD scholarships and funding.

Learn how to get a PhD scholarship

6. Gather required documents and apply

It’s time to jump online and do the official application process. Aside from your research proposal, you should also prepare to provide your:

  • academic CV
  • academic transcript
  • degree certificate(s)
  • English language documents (if needed)
  • ID (such as a passport)
  • two references / letters of recommendation from people who can comment on your research experience.

  Learn how to apply online for a UQ PhD

7. Determine if you'll continue working during your PhD

Some PhD candidates continue doing part-time or casual work while completing their research. However, this isn't easy and may not be feasible in most cases; it takes serious time-management skills to juggle any kind of job alongside a full-time PhD. So, think carefully about whether you’d like to keep working in some capacity or commit your attention fully to your research.

Learn more about working while doing a PhD

8. Calculate how long you’ll be researching your PhD

To complete your PhD within the standard 3.5-year* timeframe, you'll need to be organised with a clear project plan. Of course, the very nature of research is that you'll discover unexpected things and take unplanned detours along the way. So, your plan should include contingencies for any obstacles you might hit to ensure you still complete your research on time. 

*In special cases, you may be able to request an extension of your tuition for up to 4 years, but that is the maximum time allowed for a PhD.

Explore how long a PhD takes

9. Develop the traits and behaviours of a good PhD student

We know you’ve already got what it takes, but there are some skills and attributes you could cultivate or practise to make your upcoming journey a little smoother. Between writing your proposal and meeting with potential supervisors, be sure to set some time aside to work on yourself as well.

Discover what makes a good PhD student

10. Apply and get accepted

All the preparation is done. You’ve equipped all the gear, chosen your guide and mapped out your route. It's time to apply and set the wheels in motion.

Submit your PhD application

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Related stories

How to choose a PhD topic

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A Step-by-Step Guide on the Research Process for PhD Students

Are you about to commence a PhD? It’s quite an exciting time, with so much anticipation and nerves. You can’t be more of an expert on a topic than having a Doctorate on a particular subject, so you need to be passionate about your subject area to undertake this strenuous, demanding qualification. Some might be unsure about choosing an edD or PhD , but both are valuable qualifications. However, in this informative article, we’re going to focus on the PhD, and particularly the research process for students studying this intense qualification.

Researching for a doctoral thesis is hard work, and without the proper methods, you could find yourself floundering. Lucky for you, this helpful article will cover a step-by-step guide to the research process, so if you need to step up your research game for your postgraduate qualification, you can. Continue reading to learn more.

Consider Your Goal

The first thing to think about is your goal for undertaking a PhD or what you hope to achieve. Are you doing it to become an expert in a niche field, thereby increasing your employability? Or are you just deadly passionate about the topic and want to explore in-depth learning about your field? Before figuring out your research approach, it helps to define the reasons you’re embarking on this full-on journey of learning.

Pick a Research Methodology, and be Careful Here

The first step in conducting effective and efficient research for a PhD is to select the correct research methodology. There are various research methodologies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research . Each approach has its strengths and drawbacks, and you should choose the one that best matches your research question and objectives. For instance, research about people’s experiences in a specific job is bound to be qualitative, but the long-term effects of a biological phenomenon should essentially be quantitative.

Develop and Write Up a Research Plan

Once you have picked your research methodology as described above, the next step is to develop and write up your research plan. A research plan will detail each step of your research in order to help you make sense of it and plot it out. It should include the main research question you’re asking, the research objectives, research design ideas, data collection methods, data analysis methods, interview schedules for qualitative research, and ethical considerations.

Perform a Literature Review

Before you start conducting interviews or collecting data for your PhD research, consider conducting a literature review . You’ll have full access to your tertiary institution’s libraries, including online journal articles, where existing research on your topic should exist.

A literature review will assist you in learning about the current existing knowledge and research dearth in your field of study. It will also help you create a theoretical framework for your research topic and will provide you with rich ideas for your thesis and data collection methods.

Data Collection Methods and Approaches

One essential part of PhD research is data collection for either qualitative or quantitative research. Qualitative data is people’s experiences, stories, and anecdotes – their thoughts, feelings, and impressions. At the same time, quantitative data is pure numbers and percentages. You should collect the data that is pertinent to your research question and objectives, as developed in your research plan that you’ve already prepared.

There are various data collection methods, all with benefits and drawbacks. These include interviews, surveys, experiments, and observations. You can select the data collection method that best matches your research question and objectives as outlined in your plan.

Choose a Supervisor

All PhD students need a supervisor, usually an academic Professor with expertise in their chosen research area. Some students even have a key supervisor with a few additional supervisors. Some may have up to four. You need to approach each one who will review your research plan and methodology and provide guidance throughout the process. It’s important to note that as professional academics, their time and attention are limited, so be sure to work closely with them to fit their busy schedules.

Manage Budgets

Some research projects for a PhD will require a budget, for instance, to book lab time or to reimburse research interview participants with gift cards or cash. You may need to design and manage the research budget for your project and request financial assistance through a grant application, which must be written to precise guidelines to ensure a chance of securing some funding.

Write Often and Early

A mistake some PhD students make is waiting until they’ve collected and analyzed all their data before they start writing their thesis . You should instead begin jotting down ideas and thoughts from the beginning of the process. By getting into the habit of writing early and often, you’ll make the mammoth task of writing your thesis easier as you’ll be in the practice and flow of writing. For instance, writing the literature review and research plan is a good starting point, but you should take extensive notes and jot down hypotheses and questions that arise throughout the whole research process.

A PhD Research Summary

This helpful and informative article has covered a step-by-step guide on the research process for PhD students. If you’re preparing to undergo this rigorous and intense period of study, knowing how to research effectively is critical to your success. So follow this guide and use it to your advantage.

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Become an expert in the exercise science field

Our exercise science Ph.D. program will empower you to become a leading authority whether your career trajectory involves academia, private industry, research, or the government.

This is a full time, face-to-face, research-based doctoral program that includes 90 credit hours of graduate study taught by nationally and internationally recognized faculty.

You will receive training through a rigorous, mentor-based interdisciplinary curriculum with pedagogical and research experiences. You’ll also conduct applied and translational research focused on exercise science, which will help you enhance and prolong the quality of human life.

Meet the faculty from this area

Explore the curriculum

Calculate program costs

  • Learn how to apply

Teaching and research assistantships

A limited number of teaching assistantships are available, and research assistantships are available depending on grant funding. Assistantships include a tuition waiver, health insurance, and stipend. Research assistantships are required of Ph.D. students.

Find research mentors

Monica Teegardin

The exercise science Ph.D. program provides ample opportunity to not only enhance one’s knowledge but also gain experience teaching and engage in research. The faculty within the program are phenomenal and always willing to help. Monica Teegardin, Ph.D. Student, Kinesiology

9% Expected growth rate of exercise physiologists from 2021-2031

$90 K Annual mean wage of doctorate exercise physiologists in the U.S., 2023

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How to tackle the PhD dissertation

Finding time to write can be a challenge for graduate students who often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. Mabel Ho provides some tips to make the process less daunting

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Writing helps you share your work with the wider community. Your scholarship is important and you are making a valuable contribution to the field. While it might be intimidating to face a blank screen, remember, your first draft is not your final draft! The difficult part is getting something on the page to begin with. 

As the adage goes, a good dissertation is a done dissertation, and the goal is for you to find balance in your writing and establish the steps you can take to make the process smoother. Here are some practical strategies for tackling the PhD dissertation.

Write daily

This is a time to have honest conversations with yourself about your writing and work habits. Do you tackle the most challenging work in the morning? Or do you usually start with emails? Knowing your work routine will help you set parameters for the writing process, which includes various elements, from brainstorming ideas to setting outlines and editing. Once you are aware of your energy and focus levels, you’ll be ready to dedicate those times to writing.

While it might be tempting to block a substantial chunk of time to write and assume anything shorter is not useful, that is not the case. Writing daily, whether it’s a paragraph or several pages, keeps you in conversation with your writing practice. If you schedule two hours to write, remember to take a break during that time and reset. You can try:

  • The Pomodoro Technique: a time management technique that breaks down your work into intervals
  • Taking breaks: go outside for a walk or have a snack so you can come back to your writing rejuvenated
  • Focus apps: it is easy to get distracted by devices and lose direction. Here are some app suggestions: Focus Bear (no free version); Forest (free version available); Cold Turkey website blocker (free version available) and Serene (no free version). 

This is a valuable opportunity to hone your time management and task prioritisation skills. Find out what works for you and put systems in place to support your practice. 

  • Resources on academic writing for higher education professionals
  • Stretch your work further by ‘triple writing’
  • What is your academic writing temperament?

Create a community

While writing can be an isolating endeavour, there are ways to start forming a community (in-person or virtual) to help you set goals and stay accountable. There might be someone in your cohort who is also at the writing stage with whom you can set up a weekly check-in. Alternatively, explore your university’s resources and centres because there may be units and departments on campus that offer helpful opportunities, such as a writing week or retreat. Taking advantage of these opportunities helps combat isolation, foster accountability and grow networks. They can even lead to collaborations further down the line.

  • Check in with your advisers and mentors. Reach out to your networks to find out about other people’s writing processes and additional resources.
  • Don’t be afraid to share your work. Writing requires constant revisions and edits and finding people who you trust with feedback will help you grow as a writer. Plus, you can also read their work and help them with their editing process.
  • Your community does not have to be just about writing!  If you enjoy going on hikes or trying new coffee shops, make that part of your weekly habit.  Sharing your work in different environments will help clarify your thoughts and ideas.

Address the why

The PhD dissertation writing process is often lengthy and it is sometimes easy to forget why you started. In these moments, it can be helpful to think back to what got you excited about your research and scholarship in the first place. Remember it is not just the work but also the people who propelled you forward. One idea is to start writing your “acknowledgements” section. Here are questions to get you started:

  • Do you want to dedicate your work to someone? 
  • What ideas sparked your interest in this journey? 
  • Who cheered you on? 

This practice can help build momentum, as well as serve as a good reminder to carve out time to spend with your community. 

You got this!

Writing is a process. Give yourself grace, as you might not feel motivated all the time. Be consistent in your approach and reward yourself along the way. There is no single strategy when it comes to writing or maintaining motivation, so experiment and find out what works for you. 

Suggested readings

  • Thriving as a Graduate Writer by Rachel Cayley (2023)
  • Destination Dissertation by Sonja K. Foss and William Waters (2015)
  • The PhD Writing Handbook by Desmond Thomas (2016).

Mabel Ho is director of professional development and student engagement at Dalhousie University.

If you would like advice and insight from academics and university staff delivered direct to your inbox each week,  sign up for the Campus newsletter .

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  • Best Online Doctorate in Nursing (D.N.P.) Programs

Best Online Doctorate In Nursing (D.N.P.) Programs Of 2024

Cecilia Seiter

Updated: May 10, 2024, 11:58am

Ready to take the next step in your nursing career ? It might be time to consider a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Whether you hope to become a leader in clinical practice, education or administration—or if you simply want to improve your healthcare delivery and patient outcomes—earning a D.N.P. can arm you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a change agent in your field.

And with access to high-quality, accredited online programs across the country, busy nurses can pursue their doctoral degrees while balancing work and other commitments. Keep reading to discover the best online doctorate in nursing programs of 2024.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

  • 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
  • 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
  • All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
  • Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
  • Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked 99 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online nursing doctoral programs in the U.S. using 14 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

  • Student-to-faculty ratio
  • Socioeconomic diversity
  • Availability of online coursework
  • Total number of graduate assistants
  • Portion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

  • Fully accredited
  • Programmatic accreditation status
  • Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

  • In-state graduate student tuition and fees
  • Alternative tuition plans offered
  • Median federal student loan debt
  • Student loan default rate

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 98% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Degree Finder

Best doctorate in nursing programs, should you earn a doctorate in nursing online, accreditation for online doctoral degrees in nursing, how to find the right online doctorate in nursing for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in nursing, university of central florida, clemson university, mount carmel college of nursing, university of st francis, messiah university, university of massachusetts-amherst, west chester university of pennsylvania, university of cincinnati-main campus, maryville university of saint louis, concordia university-wisconsin, featured online schools.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial credit and much more by clicking 'Visit Site'

Program Tuition Rate

$327/credit (in-state)

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

The University of Central Florida ’s online D.N.P. program prepares learners to enter clinical leadership roles after graduation. The curriculum covers topics including clinical management, practice model design and healthcare technologies. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Students are required to complete a six-credit doctoral project that demonstrates knowledge of advanced clinical practice applications. The project may encompass topics such as policy review, design and evaluation of new care models, quality improvement and program review. UCF also offers an executive D.N.P. for aspiring nurse administrators.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
  • School Type: Public
  • Application Fee: $31
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 42 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Nursing environment management, epidemiology principles in advanced practice nursing
  • Concentrations Available: Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner
  • In-Person Requirements: No

Clemson University

$800/credit (in-state)

Clemson University —located in Clemson, South Carolina—offers a fully asynchronous online post-master’s D.N.P. and a hybrid post-baccalaureate D.N.P. program. The D.N.P. programs are accredited by CCNE.

Both programs prepare students to become change agents in the healthcare system and create new strategies for patient treatment, disease prevention and overall health promotion. Before graduation, students must complete a D.N.P. project that demonstrates their ability to apply evidence and attend a handful of immersion experiences on campus.

  • Application Fee: Free
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 35 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Clinical epidemiology and biostatistics; genomics, ethics and health policy
  • Concentrations Available: Family NP, adult-gerontology NP, pediatric NP, health systems leadership
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an in-person immersion

Mount Carmel College of Nursing

$955/credit (in-state)

Mount Carmel College of Nursing is a private college in Columbus, Ohio. Its nursing D.N.P. program is fully online, but students are required to attend two on-campus immersion experiences during their first and second semesters of study. Each immersion is between four and five days. Keep in mind that online students must pay a $200 technology fee per semester.

Mount Carmel College of Nursing is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and the D.N.P. program is CCNE-accredited.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
  • School Type: Private
  • Application Fee: $30
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 37 credits
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Ethical practices and policies in global population health; health care economics, finance and fund development
  • Concentrations Available: Clinical practice leadership, executive healthcare leadership, executive academic leadership
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for in-person immersions

University of St Francis

$799/credit (in-state)

The University of St. Francis ’ online D.N.P. curriculum focuses on managing the collective health of vulnerable patients, including elderly and low-income patients. Courses are delivered online, but the program includes practicum and translational research opportunities.

Throughout the program, students learn to manage populations experiencing health disparities, influence healthcare policy, and provide direct care to individuals and families.

The University of St. Francis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

  • Degree Credit Requirements: 40 credits
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare finance and practice management, translational research
  • Concentrations Available: N/A
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for residency

Messiah University

$940/credit (in-state)

Messiah University is a private school located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The online D.N.P. program is accredited by CCNE. There are no additional fees outside of tuition.

While most classes are delivered online, two three-day, on-campus summer sessions are required for graduation. Students have the option to learn full time, part time or on an accelerated schedule.

The program includes a final D.N.P. project that evaluates students’ abilities to apply their skills to real-world nursing scenarios, including emotional intelligence, data collection and strengths-based leadership.

  • Degree Credit Requirements: 86 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time, accelerated
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Health informatics, advanced writing for healthcare professions
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus summer sessions

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

$825/credit (in-state)

Other than clinical internship requirements, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst ’s D.N.P. courses are offered completely online. Depending on their prior education, students can pursue either a post-master’s D.N.P. or a post-baccalaureate D.N.P. with a concentration in family care, gerontology, mental health or public health. The D.N.P. program is accredited by CCNE.

A final D.N.P. project is required for graduation. Students apply their research findings to in-clinic practice settings.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: N/A
  • Application Fee: $85
  • Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Leadership of public health systems, healthcare quality
  • Concentrations Available: Family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, public health nurse leader
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for clinical internships

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

$9,288/semester (in-state)

West Chester University ’s CCNE-accredited D.N.P. program is delivered almost entirely online; students are only required to attend their first class for one day on campus. In-state distance learners are charged a $522 technology fee per semester.

The curriculum covers three core components over eight semesters: the science of nursing, practice and leadership. This program is available only to nurses who hold an M.S.N. and RN certification.

  • Application Fee: $50
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Transition to doctoral study, healthcare economics for the advanced practitioner
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for one hybrid class

$836/credit part time (in-state)

The University of Cincinnati ’s online D.N.P. program includes a variety of concentration options, almost all of which are offered entirely online. The nurse anesthesia concentration is on-campus only, and the adult-gerontology acute care concentration has just one in-person class requirement. Remote students are charged an online learning fee of $56.30 per credit.

A final D.N.P. project is required for graduation; common topics explored include policy analysis, quality improvement initiatives and database design.The University of Cincinnati’s D.N.P. program is accredited by CCNE.

  • Application Fee: $65
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 37-38 credits
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Principles of population health, quality improvement and patient safety
  • Concentrations Available: Adult-gerontology acute care NP, adult-gerontology primary care NP, family NP, nurse anesthesia, occupational health nursing, pediatric acute care NP, psychiatric-mental health NP, public health nursing, systems leadership, post-MSN D.N.P.
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, in-person thesis defense expected for local students

Maryville University of Saint Louis

$947/credit (in-state)

The D.N.P. program at Maryville University of Saint Louis allows students to earn their degrees fully online—no campus visits required. Students attend in-person clinical experiences in their local communities. Distance learners are charged a $725 technology fee per semester.

This program can be completed in as little as 20 months and is CCNE-accredited. Students also have the option to enroll in NP specializations while working towards their D.N.P.

  • Degree Credit Requirements: 33 credits
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Principles of epidemiology and biostatistics, ethics for advanced nursing practice
  • Concentrations Available: Adult-gerontology acute care NP, adult-gerontology primary care NP, pediatric NP, psychiatric-mental health NP, pediatric/family NP

Concordia University-Wisconsin

$840/credit (in-state)

Concordia University-Wisconsin ’s CCNE-accredited D.N.P. is an accelerated degree for working advanced practice registered nurses. It can be completed in two years. The only on-campus requirement is an introductory course. The rest of the program can be completed online and does not incur extra technology fees. Students can complete residencies in locations of their choice.

Concordia University-Wisconsin’s campus is located in Mequon, Wisconsin.

  • Application Fee: N/A
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 30 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Business management for the doctor of nursing practice, healthcare informatics
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus meeting

Online college is known for its flexibility and relative affordability compared to traditional degree programs. Still, earning a degree online may not be for everybody . Here’s what to consider before enrolling in an online nursing doctoral program.

  • Your budget. Online degree programs tend to cost less than in-person degrees, and many online programs charge students the same tuition rate regardless of whether they live in or out of state. Moreover, distance learning often eliminates expenses associated with housing and transportation.
  • Your learning style. If you feel comfortable setting your own study schedule and learning independently, you could do well in an online program. However, an online program probably wouldn’t suit students who learn best with in-person teaching and real-time support.
  • Your schedule. Distance learning often affords students the flexibility to work while earning their degrees. If you plan to continue working during your studies, an online program could provide you with the flexibility you need. Keep in mind that most nursing D.N.P. programs require a few days of on-campus immersions, internships or practicals, so ensure your schedule will allow for this.

To demonstrate their adherence to high quality standards, many colleges and universities pursue institutional accreditation. The college accreditation process involves an evaluation from an independent agency approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education (ED).

Individual programs within a school or university may earn subject-specific accreditation as well. This is called programmatic accreditation and validates that a program meets industry standards for education.

Accreditation ensures the validity of the school or program you attend. It demonstrates that your degree comes from an institution that meets peer-reviewed, expert-developed criteria. You can only qualify for federal student aid if you’re enrolled in an accredited institution. Plus, many employers and other higher learning institutions only recognized degrees from accredited schools.

Most colleges advertise their accreditation status on their websites. You can check a school’s FAQ page if this information isn’t readily available on its website. You can also browse ED’s searchable database for accredited institutions.

In general, most nursing programs are usually accredited by one of two programmatic accreditors: CCNE or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). CCNE is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of State and ensures the quality and integrity of undergraduate, graduate and residency programs. ACEN is recognized by ED and CHEA as an accrediting body for programs of all levels.

There’s no shortage of reputable D.N.P programs on the market. How do you know which school is right for you? Think about the following factors when weighing your options.

Consider Your Future Goals

A D.N.P. is a terminal degree that prepares graduates for the highest level of nursing practice. It equips graduates with the skills to bring evidence-based practice, quality improvement and leadership into clinical settings. As a result, the D.N.P. enables you to enter a variety of medical specializations and career paths, including as a nurse practitioner , a midwife or a nurse anesthetist .

Unlike a Ph.D., the D.N.P. is not research-intensive and instead prepares graduates to work in clinical settings. If you’re interested in working in a lab—or potentially for a research or government organization—the D.N.P. might not be the best fit. Instead a Ph.D. could be the right option.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

The cost of earning a D.N.P. depends on the individual program and your status as an in-state or out-of-state student. Tuition for the programs ranked on this page ranges between $327 and $955 per credit. Total tuition among the top 10 online D.N.P. programs averages $44,510.

Some schools also charge distance learners technology fees per semester.

Achieving your D.N.P. shouldn’t break the bank. Here are a few common financial aid options available.

  • Scholarships: Students may be awarded scholarships from individuals or organizations to fund their education. These are usually based on need or merit and don’t need to be repaid.
  • Loans: Student loans are provided through private or public lenders, including the U.S. government. They accrue interest over time and need to be paid back.
  • Assistantships: Nursing students may have part or all of their tuition waived in exchange for work. This usually comes in the form of teaching or research.
  • Grants: Students with demonstrated financial need may apply for grants from local and state governments. These don’t need to be repaid.

To ensure you qualify for federal student aid, make sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid ® (FAFSA). Individual universities and other aid providers may also use FAFSA data to determine their awards.

Can a D.N.P. be called a doctor?

No, not in clinical settings. Though a D.N.P. is a nursing doctorate, nurses who hold this degree are not licensed physicians.

Which is better, a Ph.D. or a D.N.P.?

It ultimately depends on your education and career goals. Both Ph.D. and D.N.P.s are terminal degrees, but earning a Ph.D. can be a faster route given that the curriculum doesn’t require clinical hours. Nurses with D.N.P.s generally work in clinical settings, often in leadership positions; nurses with Ph.D.s hired as leaders in laboratories and research facilities.

How many years is a doctoral degree in nursing?

Most D.N.P. programs take around one to two years to complete, though some part-time programs can take longer. It also depends on how long it takes you to complete your required clinical hours.

Why would a nurse get a doctorate?

Earning a nursing doctorate can open the door to higher-paying jobs and leadership opportunities. Through leadership, nurses can become change agents within their organizations.

Cecilia Seiter

Cecilia is a freelance writer, content marketing strategist and author covering education, technology and energy. She is a current contributor to the Forbes Advisor education vertical and holds a summa cum laude journalism degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

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UGC NET June 2024: Registration date extended till May 15, notice here

N ational Testing Agency, NTA has extended the UGC NET June 2024 registration date. Candidates who want to apply for UGC NET June 2024 examination can find the direct link through the official website of UGC NET at ugcnet.nta.ac.in.

As per the official notice, the last date for submission of online application form for UGC – NET June 2024 has been extended till May 15, 2024. The last date for submission of examination fee can be done from May 16 to May 17, 2024. The corrections window will open on May 18 and will close on May 20, 2024.

The decision to extend the registration was taken after NTA received various representations from the candidates to extend the last date for submission of online application.

The Agency has also postponed UGC NET June 2024 exam date . The UGC NET June 2024 examination will be conducted on June 18, 2024, instead of June 16, 2024.

UGC NET June 2024: How to apply

All the interested and eligible candidates can follow the steps given below to apply online.

  • Visit the official website of UGC NET at ugcnet.nta.ac.in.
  • Click on UGC NET June 2024 link available on the home page.
  • Register yourself and login to the account.
  • Fill the application form and make the payment of application fee.
  • Click on submit and download the confirmation page.
  • Keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

The application fee for General/ Unreserved is ₹ 1150/-, for SC/ST/PwD and Third Gender is ₹ 325/. The payment of fee should be done through online mode- Credit Card/ Debit Card/Net Banking /UPI.

Also Read: Students with four-year UG degrees can directly appear for NET and pursue PhD, informs UGC Chief

UGC NET will be conducted in 83 subjects in OMR (Pen & Paper), mode. The test will consist of two papers. Both the papers will consist of objective type, multiple choice questions. There will be no break between papers. For more related details candidates can check the official website of UGC NET.

Official Notice Here 

Read more news like this on HindustanTimes.com

UGC NET June 2024: Registration date extended till May 15, notice here

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  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Hachette Go (July 26, 2022)
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Stephanie Moulton Sarkis PhD NCC DCMHS LMHC is a psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, gaslighting, narcissistic abuse, and ADHD. She is the author of eight books and one workbook, including Healing From Toxic Relationships: 10 Essential Steps to Recover from Gaslighting, Narcissism, and Emotional Abuse and Gaslighting: Recognize Manipulative and Emotionally Abusive People - and Break Free and Healing From Toxic Relationships: 10 Essential Steps to Recover from Gaslighting, Narcissism, and Emotional Abuse, Dr. Sarkis is a National Certified Counselor, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, American Mental Health Counselors Association Diplomate (Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Child and Adolescent Counseling), and a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family and Circuit Mediator. She has been in private practice for 20 years. She is a senior contributor for Forbes online, and is also a contributor to Psychology Today. She is the host of the Talking Brains podcast. She is based in Tampa, Florida. You can visit her website at www.stephaniesarkis.com.

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  • Washington State University
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Jay Starratt to step down as Dean of Libraries

Washington State University logo.

Dean Jay Starratt, whose leadership since 2007 has helped define and realize innovation for the WSU Libraries system-wide, will step down as the dean of Libraries due to personal health reasons. He will return to his faculty position as a professor in the Libraries effective immediately.

Associate Dean Trevor Bond will assume the role of interim dean of Libraries immediately and will partner closely with Starratt over the next few months to ensure a successful transition.

“President Schulz and I are grateful for Dean Starratt’s leadership since 2007,” said Provost and Executive Vice President Elizabeth Chilton. “He has led the Libraries with integrity and a deep commitment to the profession. Dean Starratt has hired numerous talented colleagues and set high expectations for creativity and innovation.”

Bond has served as a member of Starratt’s leadership team since 2016, serving as associate dean for digital initiatives and special collections. He also serves as the director of the David G. Pollart Center for Arts and Humanities.

Bond received his Master’s in Library and Information Science with a specialization in Archives and Preservation Management and a Masters in Ancient History at UCLA. He completed his PhD in the Department of History at WSU. Bond is the author of Coming Home to Nez Perce Country: The Niimiipuu Campaign to Repatriate Their Exploited Heritage , a finalist for the 2022 Washington State Book Award for non-fiction.

Bond recently completed a series of grants funded by the Washington State Library in collaboration with the Nez Perce Tribe’s Cultural Resources Program. He has presented widely at professional conferences and published articles on WSU history, collecting, and enhancing access to special collections.

“Dr. Bond is a well-regarded leader, researcher, and instructor,” said Chilton. “Incoming Provost Chris Riley-Tillman and I value his deep knowledge of the WSU’s libraries enterprise and look forward to working with him to advance the Libraries throughout the WSU system.”

The Office of the Provost will launch a search for a permanent dean of libraries during the 2025 fall semester, with the intent of having the position filled by May 2026.

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  1. How Long Does It Take To Get a PhD?

    steps to a phd

  2. Pathways to PhD

    steps to a phd

  3. How to get a PhD: Steps and Requirements Explained

    steps to a phd

  4. Step-By-Step Guide: How To Complete A PhD Dissertation?

    steps to a phd

  5. Your path to a doctoral degree

    steps to a phd

  6. A Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a PhD in India [2023]

    steps to a phd

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  6. PhD entrance preparation|| Research Steps||hnbgu PhD exam topic wise class

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  1. The PhD Journey

    7 stages of the PhD journey. A PhD has a few landmark milestones along the way. The three to four year you'll spend doing a PhD can be divided into these seven stages. Preparing a research proposal. Carrying out a literature review. Conducting research and collecting results. Completing the MPhil to PhD upgrade.

  2. PDF GRAD Guide to Applying to Ph.D. Programs

    A Ph.D. is a research degree that involves the production of original knowledge and scholarship. Doctoral degrees have traditionally been regarded as training programs for academics. As such, a Ph.D. program differs from undergraduate or Master's studies. Most Ph.D. programs involve some initial coursework (specific requirements for ...

  3. How to get a PhD: Steps and Requirements Explained

    Steps to obtain a PhD. Earning a PhD is no easy feat. It takes most students years to do so. Let's look into the steps someone must take to get a PhD. Step 1: Complete an undergraduate degree. Before you can take the next step toward your PhD, you'll first have to receive a bachelor's degree through an undergraduate program at a reputable ...

  4. How the PhD Program Works

    How the PhD Program Works. Completing your doctorate at Wharton requires 5 years of full-time study. The first 2 years in the program prepare you for admission to candidacy by taking courses, qualifying exams, and starting research projects. In the last few years, you are primarily conducting research full-time including writing and defending ...

  5. Applying for a Ph.D.? These 10 tips can help you succeed

    The key is knowing what to do to prepare and how to compile and submit a strong application. We hope these 10 tips will help you get started. 1. Be true to yourself: First and foremost, consider your goals. Many students are initially interested in pursuing a Ph.D. because they want to become a professor.

  6. Applying for a PhD: Step-by-Step Guide

    Here is a checklist of what you need to consider when applying for a PhD: Choose your subject area. Choose your type of PhD. Check application deadline. Draft a research proposal. Contact potential PhD supervisors. Check PhD entry requirements. Check PhD fees and funding. Make your PhD application.

  7. How Long Does It Take To Get a PhD?

    A PhD program typically takes four to seven years, but a variety of factors can impact that timeline. A PhD, or doctorate degree, is the highest degree you can earn in certain disciplines, such as psychology, engineering, education, and mathematics. As a result, it often takes longer to earn than it does for a bachelor's or master's degree.

  8. How to Apply for a PhD

    Regardless of this, the below outlines the most common steps you will need to follow when applying for a PhD. Pay particular attention to each stage, as slipping on a single one of them can significantly affect your chances of securing the PhD you want. 1. Find Research Projects you like. Identify research areas that align with your research ...

  9. A Guide to PhD Success: How to Thrive During Doctoral Studies

    When you enroll in a PhD program, you'll learn to develop a research topic, implement a research plan, and analyze research data. You'll also get opportunities to improve your writing and communication skills. Keep reading to find out what steps you can take to ensure a doctorate is the right academic and professional path for you.

  10. What are the steps in getting a PhD?

    The work required to complete a PhD varies across academic disciplines and universities, though earning a PhD typically requires the following elements: Completing coursework. Completing one or more doctoral residency experiences. Passing a comprehensive assessment or exam. Developing and completing an independent research project.

  11. Your 8-Step Roadmap on Applying for a PhD

    PhD aspirants handbook. 8 Easy Steps on How to Apply for a PhD Step 1: Choosing Your Research Area 1. Explore Subjects 2. Previous Qualifications 3. Think About Departments Step 2: Deciding Which Type of PhD You Want 1. Predesigned Projects 2. Self-Proposed Projects Step 3: Drafting a Research Proposal 1.

  12. How to Get a PhD (with Pictures)

    A PhD, short for Doctor of Philosophy, may help you secure a position as a college or university professor, a researcher in a government or industrial laboratory, a consultant, or an independent practitioner. If you have the curiosity to explore a subject in depth and the tenacity to do so for many years, applying for a graduate PhD program may be an excellent step in reaching your full potential.

  13. How to Apply for a PhD in the US (with Pictures)

    A bachelor's degree is required for all PhD program applications and a master's degree may be required for some PhD programs. 2. Take the GRE. GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores are often required for admittance into PhD programs in the US, so it is a good idea to take the GRE before you can apply.

  14. Steps to a PhD

    The Neuroscience PhD Program is designed to provide highly individualized, flexible training that fulfills both these needs. Our PhD training program has a standard completion time of 5.5 to 6 years. The program is PhD-granting only, there is no master's degree program. The following is a general overview of the steps to a Neuroscience PhD at ...

  15. PhD Steps to Degree

    Steps Toward Graduation Remember to see the PhD Requirements for the rules of each step. You will need to follow these steps along the path to the PhD. In your first 3 years A - F are completed concurrently. (A) Complete the Background Coursework Requirements. (B) Before enrolling in your 2nd semester find a supervising professor and identify a research area.

  16. Doctoral Degree Steps to Completion

    Eva Bachman. Office of Graduate Studies. Throughout these steps to degree completion, Eva will be answering your questions and reviewing your materials. Certification of Full-Time Status. Academic Leave Form. Extension Request Form. Expected Graduation Date. Expand All.

  17. Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

    In order to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, you need to first begin by earning your bachelor's degree. While earning your undergraduate degree in psychology can be helpful, students with bachelor's degrees in other subjects can also apply their knowledge to psychology Ph.D. programs. Some students in doctorate programs may have a master's degree in ...

  18. 10 stages of the PhD journey: advice from many experts

    5. Start writing in the early stages of your project. Don't wait until you have collected and analysed your data before you start writing. Most universities encourage students to write about their project while they are conducting their research. Project proposals can be rewritten and methods sections developed as data is collected and analysed.

  19. Doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. and Psy.D.) Program Guide

    The median BLS salary for psychologists include both graduate and undergraduate level occupations. According to Payscale, of the 25 people reporting in September 2023, the average salary for graduates with a Ph.D. in psychology is $95,000. September Payscale data for 2023 reports the average salary for graduates with a Psy.D. as $92,000.

  20. Steps to Doctoral Degree

    1. Meet with departmental graduate advisor to plan course of study for first semester. Before first semester registration. Graduate advisor. 2. Establish advisory committee; submit your degree plan online. Following the deadline imposed by the student's college and approved no later than 90 days prior to the preliminary exam.

  21. How to get a PhD in Australia

    So, with a little help from our academics and some UQ PhD candidates, we've broken down the application and preparation process into 10 manageable steps: Complete prior research. Choose your topic. Find a PhD supervisor. Write your PhD proposal. Identify potential scholarships. Gather required documents and apply.

  22. A Step-by-Step Guide on the Research Process for PhD Students

    The first step in conducting effective and efficient research for a PhD is to select the correct research methodology. There are various research methodologies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research. Each approach has its strengths and drawbacks, and you should choose the one that best matches your research question ...

  23. Ph.D. Exercise Science: Exercise & Kinesiology: Academics: School of

    Our exercise science Ph.D. program will empower you to become a leading authority whether your career trajectory involves academia, private industry, research, or the government.

  24. How to tackle the PhD dissertation

    The PhD dissertation writing process is often lengthy and it is sometimes easy to forget why you started. In these moments, it can be helpful to think back to what got you excited about your research and scholarship in the first place. Remember it is not just the work but also the people who propelled you forward.

  25. Best Online Doctorate In Nursing (D.N.P.) Programs Of 2024

    Ready to take the next step in your nursing career?It might be time to consider a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Whether you hope to become a leader in clinical practice, education or administration ...

  26. UGC NET June 2024: Registration date extended till May 15, notice ...

    Also Read: Students with four-year UG degrees can directly appear for NET and pursue PhD, informs UGC Chief UGC NET will be conducted in 83 subjects in OMR (Pen & Paper), mode. The test will ...

  27. Healing from Toxic Relationships: 10 Essential Steps to Recover from

    Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, PhD, NCC, DCMHS, LMHC is a psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, gaslighting, narcissistic abuse, and ADHD. She is the author of several books, including the best-selling Gaslighting: Recognize Manipulative and Emotionally Abusive People—and Break Free.Dr. Sarkis is a National Certified Counselor, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Florida Supreme Court ...

  28. Jay Starratt to step down as Dean of Libraries

    Jay Starratt to step down as Dean of Libraries May 10, 2024. By Communications staff, Washington State University. ... Carson College of Business celebrates faculty, staff, and PhD student success May 10, 2024. The exceptional contributions of nine Carson College of Business faculty, staff, and graduate students were recognized at an annual ...