how to phd degree

How to get a PhD: Steps and Requirements Explained

Interested in obtaining a phd learn more about the steps to earn a phd, careers with phd, list of colleges offering programs and more., college monk — how to get a phd, what is a phd.

A PhD is actually just one type of doctoral degree. PhDs are research-focused. The other type of doctorate is application-focused (also known as an applied doctorate).

PhD admission requirements 

Not just anyone can earn a PhD. Given how well-respected the title is, it takes a lot of work and very specific criteria to enter a doctoral program.

Steps to obtain a PhD

Step 1: complete an undergraduate degree, step 2: complete a master's program, step 3: apply for a phd program.

During the application process, you’ll have to submit the following:

Step 4: Complete your coursework

Step 5: prepare a research proposal.

A research proposal is a document that outlines what, exactly, a PhD student will focus on during their research. 

A research proposal should include the major question or questions someone plans to answer with their dissertation, and how exactly they plan to arrive at that answer. 

Step 6: Complete a literature review

Step 7: research and collect results, step 8: produce a thesis and write a dissertation.

Source:  https://www.wikihow.com

Step 9: Viva Voce

Online colleges offering phd programs.

What can you do with a PhD?

Frequently asked questions.

How To Get a PhD [2024 Guide – Campus & Online]

Are you wondering how to get a PhD? Although it requires dedication and focus to complete, the process of earning your doctorate can be broken down into a few simple steps.

Earning your PhD is a way to become involved in a specific academic community while strengthening your research, writing, and presentation skills.

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Professionals who earn their doctoral degree often go on to accept leadership roles in a variety of fields, including academia, education, and healthcare.

How to Get a PhD

Earning a PhD does not have to be a complex process, though it can be a long one. Regardless of the topic you choose to focus on, the journey toward your doctorate will likely begin with earning a bachelors degree and end with a public defense of your doctoral dissertation.

1. Earn an Undergraduate Degree

The road to a PhD begins with earning an undergraduate degree from an accredited school. Bachelor’s degrees generally take about 4 years to complete if you follow a traditional academic schedule.

If you are considering applying for higher degree programs after graduation, it is beneficial to maintain a high grade point average over the course of your undergraduate career. If you aren’t sure whether you’d like to pursue further education, there are generally plenty of career opportunities available for students with a bachelor’s-level education.

2. Obtain a Master’s Program

The next step in your journey will be to obtain a master’s degree from an accredited institution. During your master’s degree program, you will select an area of study on which to focus more. Over the course of your studies, you can develop expertise in your discipline through a combination of theoretical analysis and fieldwork.

Because there are fewer credits required to complete a master’s degree than a bachelor’s degree, a graduate program will typically take 2 years to complete with full-time study. Some schools offer accelerated programs, offering the possibility to finish your degree sooner.

The focus of your master’s degree program will likely inform your professional career or your doctoral field of study. So, it is beneficial to consider the areas you are passionate about and to conduct extensive research into your schools of interest prior to applying.

3. Apply for a PhD Program

After earning your master’s degree, you may be qualified to apply for a doctoral program. One factor that becomes important is the master’s degree GPA needed for a PhD program admission. Admissions requirements will vary from program to program.

Another one of the most important parts of the application process is determining what you will study during your time as a doctoral candidate. Because it may take up to 5 years to complete your PhD, it is essential that you pursue something you are passionate about.

After you decide what you’d like to study, you can begin to research programs and schools to see if they fit your needs. As you conduct your search, you may want to pay close attention to the professors who work in your field of study. You will need someone to advise you, and it can be helpful to have an understanding of the resources available to you before you apply.

4. Complete the Requisite Coursework

If you are admitted to a doctoral program, your first few semesters will be spent completing the required coursework. The courses that you’ll complete will be dependent on your field of study and the specific program you attend.

For example, a student pursuing their PhD in Comparative Studies might take classes on approaches to comparative cultural comparative studies as well as contemporary political problems. Their classes could also cover topics in narrative, culture, and representation.

Taking classes at the start of your program can help you decide on a topic for your final dissertation and may equip you with relevant research skills and tools.

5. Submit a Research Proposal

Once you complete your initial courses, you will be asked to submit a research proposal. A research proposal outlines what topic you are going to focus your research on and what your approach will consist of.

Why is this important? Not only does it give professors a clear understanding of your research, your method, and your thinking, but it also helps you get organized. As you work through your dissertation, you can refer back to what you planned in your proposal to keep you on track.

6. Research and Collect Data

Conducting research and collecting data is a critical component of your PhD. Working toward and completing your dissertation not only allows you to become an expert in your field but also provides the opportunity for you to have a voice in the academic community.

In order to ensure that the information you present is valid, it is necessary to use extensive research to back up your findings.

7. Perform a Literature Review

Once you have chosen a specific research topic, you may be required to perform a literature review. During this review, you will analyze books and papers that are related to your field of study in order to determine any strengths, weaknesses, or gaps. You may also compare different literature and take note of recurring themes.

This review process helps you develop a broader understanding of what research already exists in your field related to your topic of interest. It also helps highlight any gaps that your thesis may be able to fill and identifies prominent authors and works to which you can refer while completing your dissertation.

8. Write and Produce a Thesis and Dissertation

One of the final tasks of your Ph.D. program will be to write and produce a thesis and a dissertation. Your thesis is the question or argument to which all your research will work to answer or prove.

Your dissertation is the collection and presentation of your findings, which should be a comprehensive response to your thesis statement. Dissertations can run in length from 100 pages to 300 pages on average. They often require a significant amount of preparation and effort, along with several months or years of hard work.

9. Defend Dissertation and Public Research

As your final step in your PhD journey, you may be asked to defend your thesis. While this may sound intimidating, it is simply the opportunity for you to present your research and answer questions posed by the thesis committee.

In some cases, this portion of the process is largely symbolic because your dissertation will have already been assessed. Depending on your specific program, this process can take anywhere from 25 minutes to over an hour.

PhD Admissions Requirements

Specific PhD admissions requirements will vary between programs, but most schools typically require the following items:

• GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
• Statement of purpose
• Undergraduate and graduate degree transcripts
• Letters of recommendation

It’s strategic to research the specific admissions requirements for your schools of interest prior to applying. In addition to these items, some programs may ask for an application fee as well as a resume as proof of experience in your field of interest.

Accreditation

Accreditation is an external and internal review process of an educational program. This process signals to applicants, students, and employers that a program is legitimate.

By choosing to participate in the accreditation process, schools are ensuring that the education they offer is up to current standards. This means that you will most likely be taught by qualified staff members and receive appropriate educational materials.

It is beneficial to check for regional accreditation. This information is often posted on a school’s website, but you can also verify a prospective school’s status by looking through the US Department of Education’s list of accredited institutions.

Is Financial Aid Available?

The most common form of financial aid available to qualifying students is provided by government loans. To determine the amount of federal assistance you qualify for, you can fill out the FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid . This form takes into account details about your personal life and income to ensure a fair decision based on your circumstances.

In addition to federal aid, you can also apply for state aid, a process which will vary by state. You can also check for available scholarships at your schools of interests. There are often unique opportunities to apply for financial help at each school.

What Is a PhD?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is considered to be among the highest academic degrees you can achieve. A PhD program is centered around developing an original thesis and conducting the accompanying research.

Your final product is often a written dissertation, in which you showcase your research and present your findings. If you are interested in a career in academia or research, then a PhD may be a good fit for you.

Should I Get a PhD?

The question of whether you should obtain a PhD is one that will be determined by your personal career goals and aspirations. As you make your decision, it might be helpful to consider these factors:

• Time and money . Do you have the time and finances needed to complete a PhD?
• Dedication and focus . Will you be able to stay passionate and motivated about one topic while you work through your doctoral program?
• Career goals . How will earning your PhD help propel you toward your professional goals?

Since every doctoral program is unique, you can search for schools that offer the programs that most align with your goals.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD?

No, you do not always need a masters degree in order to earn a PhD, depending on the school and program. While the traditional path to getting a doctorate consists of earning your undergraduate and masters degrees before applying to a PhD program, there are some exceptions.

For schools that allow you to pursue a PhD directly after earning your undergrad degree, you will likely apply as a Master of Philosophy student. After that, you can have the opportunity to submit a thesis proposal for review. If it is accepted, you may be able to continue your research as a PhD candidate.

How Many Credits for a Doctorate Degree?

The amount of credits needed to complete your doctorate will be determined by a number of factors. These include your specific school requirements, the type of degree you earn, your chosen area of study, and the requirements of your state.

Typically, a PhD program will consist of 60 to 120 credits. Your credits will likely be split between electives, major courses, research core courses, and dissertation requirements. Some fields, such as psychology, may require more time and credits to complete.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

The length of a PhD program varies widely. Most take between 3 to 5 years to complete due to the dissertation requirement.

There are some doctoral programs that require less than 60 credits and do not include a final dissertation. These types of programs can be finished more quickly if you are enrolled full-time. Professional doctorates are more likely to follow this abbreviated structure and are generally intended for students who already have their masters in a specific field.

How Hard Is It to Get a PhD?

Determining how difficult it is to earn a PhD will depend on what you consider to be the biggest roadblocks. As you research your schools of interest, it’s beneficial to check eligibility criteria and admissions requirements. This may be an area of difficulty if you lack the transcripts, finances, or test scores needed to apply.

Alternatively, the admissions process may seem simple, but you might find the prospect of researching one subject over the course of many years a difficult one. It’s strategic to conduct extensive research and consider your career goals as you make your decision.

If Someone Has a PhD, Are They a Doctor?

If someone has a PhD, they are considered a doctor in the academic sense, but they are not a medical doctor (MD).

A doctoral degree is the highest academic degree you can earn. In this case, the term “doctor” simply refers to one’s formal academic standing. Unlike a licensed medical doctor, someone with a PhD is not qualified to perform and provide medical services.

What’s the Difference Between a Professional Doctorate vs. PhD Degree?

A professional doctorate is typically pursued by those who hold a master’s degree in a specific field. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is usually taken on by those interested in conducting extensive research into a topic.

The right degree for you will largely be determined by your career aspirations. Most professionals who pursue a PhD are interested in the field of research or academia.

What’s the Difference Between an MPhil vs. PhD?

An MPhil, or a Master of Philosophy, is a degree that can be taken in place of a PhD or as part of an existing PhD program.

You might consider pursuing an MPhil if you are short on time but would like to conduct research into a certain topic.

Is a PhD Worth It?

Yes, a PhD is worth it for many students. If you are eager to contribute to the existing research around a particular topic, then this degree may be a good fit for you. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists positive job outlooks for a variety of PhD-level occupations.

For instance, 12% job growth is projected for postsecondary teachers over the next ten years, which is much faster than average. Top executives and management positions are also expected to have positive job outlooks.

Additionally, the research you conduct and the dissertation you create will become part of the larger academic conversation around your area of study. This could be a beneficial way to establish yourself in academia.

Getting Your PhD Degree Online

Getting a a degree from one of the best online PhD programs is a lucrative choice for many students. If you are interested in becoming a leader within academia or contributing significant research to a specific subject area, then this may be a fitting path for you.

Positive job outlooks, higher earning potential, and a multitude of career opportunities also make this degree desirable to many. A number of professionals who earn their PhD go on to pursue leadership roles in education, healthcare, and law.

If you are ready to begin your PhD journey, are are looking for the highest paying doctorate degrees , you can start by researching potential programs from accredited universities today.

• PhD in USA – A Guide for 2024/25
• Finding a PhD

A PhD in USA takes approximately 5 – 6 years of full-time study and can cost between $12,000 – $45,000 per academic year. PhD programs in USA differ from that in the UK and Europe in that students must first take taught classes, coursework and exams before starting their research project.

Why Do a PhD in USA?

The United States has long had some of the most distinguished universities and advanced PhD programmes in the world. Combined with curriculum flexibility, rigorous teaching methods, vast funding opportunities, breathtaking campuses and significant career prospects, it’s no wonder that it is one of the most sought-after study destinations for research students.

In addition to comprehensive training standards, here are a few other reasons why a student may choose to undertake their PhD in the United States:

• Longer learning timeframes – A PhD in the US lasts longer than a PhD in the UK or Europe. This allows students to more confidently transition from undergraduate to postgraduate studies; more commonly referred to as ‘graduate studies’ in the US. This gives you the opportunity to learn more about your subject, research methods and academic writing in general before starting your research project.
• World-class universities – It’s no secret that some of the most well-known higher education institutions that continue to dominate global rankings are based in the United States. Although many factors go into determining whether a position is right for you, a PhD at a high-ranking American university will undeniably have many benefits, from excellent learning standards to access to innovative equipment and deep expertise.
• International network – The US has long been a popular choice among PhD students around the world. As such, the US hosts a diverse and multicultural learning environment in which many research students will quickly feel at home.
• Opportunities – With over 4,000 universities in the US, we can safely say you will have plenty of opportunities to find the ideal combination of project, supervisor and university that works for you.

Universities in USA

Universities in the United States can be divided into two types: public universities and private universities.

Public universities are financed by the state in which they are based. Because of this, public universities charge less for students from within the state and more for students from outside the state, including international students.

Private universities are not financed by their state, but by private donors, research funds and tuition fees. For this reason, private universities generally charge higher tuition fees than public universities and require all students to pay the same amount, regardless of whether they come from out-of-state or abroad.

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 , eight of the top ten universities in the world are located in the United States. These are:

Method of Study

The main difference between a PhD in the US and a PhD in Europe lies in the program structure. Whereas a European PhD essentially consists of a single phase lasting three to four years , an American PhD consists of three different phases, each with its own time frame.

• Phase One – The first phase lasts approximately two years and focuses on building a basic foundation for the doctoral student. This phase consists largely of taught components such as lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions, in which the student learns more about theoretical concepts and research methods within their discipline.
• Phase Two – The second phase can be considered an assessment phase, which runs both periodically alongside and at the end of the first phase. Here, students complete coursework and take exams on the basis of the material they have covered of which they must pass in order to proceed to the third phase.
• Phase Three – The third phase lasts approximately three years and resembles the European PhD structure. During this period, the student undertakes an independent research project, including forming a research design, conducting experiments, writing a thesis (more commonly referred to in the USA as a dissertation) and sitting a viva exam.

Teaching Requirements

Besides structure, a key difference between a PhD program in the US and in Europe is the focus on teaching requirements. In the US, doctoral students are expected to lecture, lead tutorials, host laboratory sessions, mark coursework and provide office hours for undergraduate students. Although students studying in European will likely contribute to these at some point during their study, this would normally be on a voluntary basis and involve less time commitment.

Research Flexibility

Another difference is project flexibility. In Europe, students typically apply to a PhD project predetermined by a supervisor, and although there may be some scope to adapt the project, depending on the funding provider , it will usually be limited to how the project is carried out rather than what it is about. In the US, however, a student applies to become a doctoral candidate within a department rather than applying for a particular research project. This is because students are expected to decide on their thesis topic (also commonly referred to as a dissertation research topic) near the end of their first phase after they have developed a better understanding of their subject and know where their interests lie. Therefore, research students in the US generally have more flexibility and influence in the direction of their research than students in the United Kingdom or Europe.

PhD Admission Requirements in USA

PhD admission into US universities can be highly competitive, both because of the limited number of positions and the large number of annual applicants.

The eligibility requirements for a doctoral program in the USA can generally be divided into four sections:

• Grade Point Average ( GPA ) – in the US, a scoring system known as Grade Point Average is used to measure academic ability. A student’s GPA is calculated as a weighted score of the subjects they study during their undergraduate degree; an equivalent score is calculated by universities for international applicants. Although universities rarely set minimum GPA requirements for doctoral study, it’s worth being aware that a GPA of 3.0 is equivalent to a UK second class honours (2:1); the typical entry requirement for UK universities.
• Graduate Records Exam (GRE) – most universities will require you to take a series of examinations known as Graduate Records Exams, which are used to determine your suitability for graduate study. GREs will assess your analytical, reasoning and critical thinking skills as well as your depth of your subject.
• Student aptitude – in addition to academic ability, US universities also look for characteristics of a strong researcher. These include traits such as engaging in the subject in your own time, e.g. by attending talks and conferences, demonstrating a high degree of independence and enthusiasm, and a general passion for your subject.
• English Language Proficiency – international students whose first language is not English must sit language exams such as IELTS or TOELF to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

International students will also require a F1 student visa in order to study in the US, however, you would typically apply for this after you have secured a place into a doctorate program.

How to Apply for PhD in USA

When applying for a PhD position at a graduate school, the application process will differ between universities, however, they will all typically ask for the following:

• Academic CV – a short document summarising your educational background and current level of experience .
• Personal statement – a document which outlines why you believe you are suitable for PhD study and your passion for the subject.
• Academic transcripts – a complete breakdown of the modules and their respective marks you have taken as part of your previous/current degree.
• GRE scores – a transcript of your Graduate Records Exam results.
• Research statement – a condensed version of a research proposal outlining your general research interests, if required.
• Recommendation letters – references from several academic referees who endorse your qualities as a person, your abilities as a student and your potential as a doctoral researcher.

Application Deadlines and Fees

Since PhD programs in the United States have taught components, they commence at the same time as all other taught degrees, and therefore share the same application deadlines and start dates. This corresponds to an application period that typically begins in August and ends in February. Admission decisions are typically made in April, with successful students starting in August/September.

When you apply to a graduate school, you will be expected to pay a fee for each doctorate application to cover the school’s administrative costs for processing your application. The fee varies from university to university, but typically ranges from $50 to $100 .

Funding your PhD in USA

It’s very common for a PhD student to receive financial aid in the form of a PhD scholarship; in fact, this will be the case for the vast majority of students in the US.

PhD funding can be ‘fully funded’ covering the student’s graduate program tuition fees, accommodation and living costs, or ‘partially funded’ covering the student’s tuition fee only in part or full.

Besides funding, a graduate student can take on an assistantship, such as a graduate teaching assistant or research assistant, in which they take on a part-time salaried position at the university alongside their studies.

Due to the international and collaborate nature of American universities, there are also a number of international scholarships available, such as the Fulbright Scholarship and the AAUW International Fellowship .

PhD Duration in USA

In the US, a PhD takes approximately 5 – 6 years to complete if studying full-time, and 8 – 10 years if studying part-time.

If you already have a Master’s degree, your first phase can be shortened by one year at the discretion of the university.

Cost of a PhD in USA

The cost of a PhD program in the US can vary considerably depending on the type of university, i.e. whether it’s a public or private university, the doctoral course, i.e. whether it’s in a STEM subject such as computer science, engineering or a non-STEM subject, and whether you are a home or international student.

In general, however, the typical annual tuition fee for a PhD in the US is between $12,000 and $45,000 per academic year.

As with any doctoral degree, additional costs may include travel for collaborations, bench fees, accommodation and living expenses.

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• Applying for a PhD in the USA

Written by Taru Medha

Applying to a PhD degree in the USA can be quite an extensive and competitive process. Universities want to make sure students end up on the right graduate programmes and therefore put a lot of time and effort into their admissions process. They expect you to do the same with your application.

This doesn't mean that it's harder to get a place on a US PhD degree. But you will need to provide more material and more detail about your existing qualifications than you might be asked for elsewhere.

On this page

When should i apply for a phd in the usa.

US graduate programmes will have specific application deadlines. It’s common for application windows to open between August and December for admission to a PhD in the autumn (or ‘fall’) of the following year.

How should I apply for a PhD in the USA?

Applications for US PhD programmes are made directly to graduate schools. But bear in mind that US graduate schools will often ask for a lot of supplementary material with your application. Most will also charge an admission fee (usually between $50 and $100 ).

Do I need a Masters to apply for a PhD in the USA?

You won’t necessarily need a Masters to apply for a PhD in the USA. American graduate programmes effectively combine Masters and PhD study. Some students actually receive a Masters at the end of their coursework stage.

If you do already have a Masters , you may be able to receive credit for it and spend less time on the coursework stage of your programme. This decision is made by your graduate school, who will decide how relevant your existing degree is.

To apply for a PhD at an American university, you’ll need to submit a list of documents which include:

• academic transcripts;
• personal statement ;
• letters of recommendation;
• research statements – A research statement is different from a research proposal (required if you’re applying for a PhD in most other countries). You’ll only need to give a general sense of your research interests and possible directions you might like to pursue. The specific details for your project will be developed later in your programme and put forward as part of your research prospectus;
• graduate admission tests – They are a more common requirement in the US education system than they are in other countries. They allow your university to assess general skills such as abstract reasoning, problem solving and critical thinking. A number of tests are in use, but the two most common are the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) . Some PhD subjects may use other graduate entry tests in place of (or in addition to) the GRE such as the LSAT for Law programmes . You must check with your university to know which test it requires;
• English academic language test - If English is not your first language you may need to submit a score from a recognised body such as TOEFL or IELTS. Your prospective university will be able to tell you which test it prefers (many will accept more than one), and the minimum score, or scores, it requires.

Decision on your PhD application

There are three potential outcomes for a US PhD application. You may be successful , waitlisted or unsuccessful . If you’re successful or unsuccessful, your university will let you know straight away. However, you may also be waitlisted as a second-choice candidate. If the first-choice candidate declines their offer or isn’t able to enrol on the programme, you’ll be offered their place.

Once you’ve heard back from your university and you have a confirmed place, you’re all set to start applying for your student visa! Read our comprehensive guides to know more how a PhD looks like in the US and the funding options at your disposal.

Search for a PhD in the USA

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How to Get a PhD

Last Updated: August 24, 2024 Fact Checked

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. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 695,147 times.

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. [1] X Research source 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. By learning the steps necessary to complete your prerequisite education, apply to graduate schools, and complete the work, you'll be well on your way.

Completing Prerequisite Education

• Generally, it's recommended that students interested in pursuing advanced degrees should develop a wide skill-base during their undergrad. In other words, while you may ultimately be interested in studying Zoology, an undergrad degree in basic Biology might provide you with a diverse base that you'll be able to narrow in your future studies.
• Many universities offer majors designed to funnel you into an advanced degree. Pre-law majors and Pre-med majors are two notable examples of this. Talk to your academic advisor about your interest in pursuing a PhD after you graduate, if you've yet to select a major.

• A good way to develop a relationship with a professor is to take multiple classes with her and join her lab, or research team. Go to office hours, introduce yourself, and express your interest in advanced degree work. Most professors are more than happy to work with a talented student who shows a sincere interest in their work.
• It's also a good idea to forge relationships with graduate students at your school. Speak to graduate students and faculty about their experiences at the school, even if you plan on going elsewhere for your advanced degree. Many will be happy to let you know about the advantages and disadvantages of studying for and obtaining a Ph.D. It can be a great way to get insider information and get ahead of the game.

• Work-study programs in your field of interest can also be extremely attractive of graduate applications. If you're studying English, try to secure employment in the Writing Lab, rather than the cafeteria to give yourself an edge and valuable experience.

• National and regional conferences, such as the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR), allow dedicated undergrads the opportunity to rub elbows with experts and contribute to the discussion.

• Look for programs with a good reputation, but give more weight to the faculty and the research interests of the other graduate students at prospective schools. What you're looking for in an advanced degree program is camaraderie and common ground, not an arbitrary ranking on some "prestigious" list.
• The applications are expensive--sometimes $50 or $80 dollars each--so you won't be able to apply to all programs. Try to select a range of programs to apply to: choose a few big dream schools with great facilities and prestigious faculty and lots of competition to see if you can't get in. Apply to smaller programs that you'd also be happy attending. Apply to as many as you can afford to give yourself the best chance.
• For some fields, a master's degree will be a more appropriate subsidiary or even terminal degree. At worst, a master's degree can be an excellent primer for the graduate school life, especially if teaching assistantships or fellowships are available.

Applying to Graduate Programs

• While most Master's programs only require the general test, which is like an advanced version of the SAT, some Ph.D programs will require that you take the subject test, which is given in several sections, including biology, literature, and other fields. It's a much more difficult test than the general--the reading list for the Subject test in lit is several hundred authors from a variety of periods. Make sure you take the correct test for the program to which you're applying. [5] X Research source
• Schedule your test early in the application season, to give yourself enough time to retake it, if necessary. The test can be somewhat expensive, more than $100, so start studying now with a good-quality commercial study guide.
• When you arrive for the test, you can arrange to have your scores sent directly to the graduate programs you'll be applying to. This has the advantage of cutting out an extra step in your application process, but also ensures that the school will see your scores, good or bad. If you're worried about your score, arrange to have them sent to you instead.

• It's important to ask for these letters as early as possible, preferably at least 3 months before you need to submit your applications. Professors will be inundated with letter-writing requests at the last minute, increasing the possibility of them writing a poor evaluation. Don't be one of those students.

Carrie Adkins, PhD

" Ask well in advance, and supply any materials that might help them ," adds Carrie Adkins, PhD in History. "Professors can only write so many thorough, detailed letters of recommendation, so if you help them out by asking a month or two before the deadline and providing them with your CV and statement of purpose, you’ll be more likely to get their best efforts ."

• If you're planning on applying to lots of schools, it can be a time-saver to write a "form" version of your letter, allowing space to customize the letter for more specific programs. It's very important to tailor each statement of purpose to the particular program to which you're applying. This demonstrates your seriousness and interest in the school. Each letter should read as if you're only interested in studying at that school.

• a completed application form
• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• A curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
• Recent GRE scores
• Statement of Purpose
• TOEFL or IELTS scores (for international students)
• 2-3 Letters of Recommendation

• Applying for financial aid will often involve supplementary application materials, like a teaching statement, research statement, or other short writing prompts. Research the specific requirements at each university for specific instructions when applying for financial aid.
• If full funding isn't an option, consider applying for need-based scholarships. Often, these are available to minority applicants or students in financial straits. Likewise, the application fee can often be waived. Contact individual departments when you're applying to check about need-based application waivers.

Completing Your Degree

• Choose people who you can work with, and who share a common research interest, as well as people you get along with personally. Personal differences often pop up during these kinds of working relationships, making it important to avoid them in the beginning.
• Your proposed academic advisor/research supervisor should ideally be named in your statement of purpose, with the reasons you want to work with that person. Those reasons should show that you know something about that person's background and why he or she would make an effective advisor.

• The names and signatures of your committee members , the program director, and the student. You'll also need your student ID number and other personal information.
• A brief statement of your academic and research goals . This will typically be a super-condensed version of your research question or thesis statement, probably no more than 50-100 words.
• A list of the required courses you'll take over the next two years, listing course number, title, department, and instructor, as well as the semester you intend to take the course. Most programs require around 12 hours of required coursework for an advanced degree.
• A list of the elective courses you'll take , with corresponding course numbers, titles, departments, and instructors, as well as the semester you intend to take the course. Most programs require somewhere between 20 and 30 elective hours for an advanced degree.
• Dissertation hours . When you've passed your preliminary examinations, your coursework will change to independent research and dissertation work, but you'll still be registered for a course with a course number and a particular number of credit hours, with your major professor or thesis chair as the instructor. This information will also need to be included on the plan of study form.

• In graduate school, the course load is usually somewhat less than the undergraduate degree, because of the intensity of the coursework and other research or teaching responsibilities. A "full load" is usually considered 6 or 9 hours, though you'll be doing 20 or more hours of teaching or research in a given week. [6] X Research source
• For a PhD student, a typical coursework semester might involve three courses: a required core class and two elective courses. Typically, elective courses will still be in the department the student is studying, if not the particular program. For example, a comparative lit PhD studying Medieval literature may take a 20th century poetry course in the English department as an elective, though probably not a biology class.

• The written examination, sometimes called the "prelim," will typically be submitted to the department chair by your major professor, then administered to you toward the end of your second year of classes. When you pass the exam, you'll be considered "Post-Prelim" and may begin the process of completing your dissertation. [7] X Research source

• Start with a research question. A research question is what you'll hope to answer over the course of your dissertation research. It needs to be narrow, but with broad-reaching implications. A starting research question might be something like, "How are women represented during the silver age of American comic book publishing?" or "What are the implications of spontaneous genetic mutation during breeding in drosophila, and what effect might this have on cancer research?"

• As you complete your coursework and add complexity to the topic in which you're interested, you'll likely change and add depth to your initial research interest. That's fine. Let the research grow your understanding of the topic, and change the way you approach it. That means you're on the right track.

• In the humanities , several semesters following your coursework and preliminary examination will be devoted to completing the research involved with your interests. During this time, you'll be expected to periodically update your committee on your progress, providing them with literature reviews and outlines, depending on your arrangement. You may also be expected to publish supplementary papers periodically in academic journals.
• In the sciences , you'll spend your post-prelim semesters doing lab work, or other field work depending on your field of study. The time will be spent collecting data and performing experiments to move your research forward, to be collected in the dissertation, and probably published in peer-reviewed journals.

• Most "defenses" are cordial affairs, not debates, though you should expect to be pressed and argued with regarding your methods, your conclusions, and other aspects of your work. The best way to prepare for your defense is to know your dissertation and your research inside and out.
• At a successful defense, you'll need to present yourself and your work well both orally and in writing to earn recognition as a PhD candidate and a researcher. Practice delivering your main point quickly and your overall presentation or paper with confidence.

Funding Your Research

• In the hard sciences , money is allocated to provide different labs, projects, and individuals money on a competitive case-by-case basis. To apply, you'll typically write a detailed proposal of your research goals and submit it to the department.
• In the humanities , it's also common to seek subsequent teaching appointments in tangential fields: if your research involves the representation of women in comic books, and you've been teaching in the English department, why not pick up a special-topics course in Women's Studies?

Surviving the Process

• Don't Try to do everything at once. Because you will spend several years to earn your doctorate, it's important to slow down and do everything with the attention to detail the process deserves. You don't want to get your dissertation hung up because of a silly documentation error you rushed through.

• During the time you spend working on your doctorate, you'll face a variety of challenges. The lab's funding may be cut. You may lose grant money. Your paper may get rejected from a conference. Fail early and fail often. Create opportunities for yourself and work around the challenges.

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.findaphd.com/guides/what-is-a-phd
• ↑ https://drexel.edu/soe/resources/career-path/how-to-get-doctorate-degree/
• ↑ https://www.cs.purdue.edu/homes/dec/essay.phd.html
• ↑ http://www.cs.unc.edu/~azuma/hitch4.html
• ↑ https://math.berkeley.edu/graduate/phd-program/preliminary-exam

About This Article

Before you can get a PhD, you'll need to complete your prerequisite education and take the GRE, or Graduate Record Exam. You will also need letters of recommendation from 1 or 2 distinguished professors in your field to submit with your application. Once you are admitted to graduate school, you should seek out funding opportunities, like grants or teaching positions. To earn your PhD, you will need to take courses, pass written and oral exams, conduct original research in your field, and write a dissertation. For more ways to get your PhD for free, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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PhD Programs

• Accounting & Management
• Business Economics
• Health Policy (Management)
• Organizational Behavior
• Technology & Operations Management

Students in our PhD programs are encouraged from day one to think of this experience as their first job in business academia—a training ground for a challenging and rewarding career generating rigorous, relevant research that influences practice.

Our doctoral students work with faculty and access resources throughout HBS and Harvard University. The PhD program curriculum requires coursework at HBS and other Harvard discipline departments, and with HBS and Harvard faculty on advisory committees. Faculty throughout Harvard guide the programs through their participation on advisory committees.

How do I know which program is right for me?

There are many paths, but we are one HBS. Our PhD students draw on diverse personal and professional backgrounds to pursue an ever-expanding range of research topics. Explore more here about each program’s requirements & curriculum, read student profiles for each discipline as well as student research , and placement information.

The PhD in Business Administration grounds students in the disciplinary theories and research methods that form the foundation of an academic career. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program has four areas of study: Accounting and Management , Marketing , Strategy , and Technology and Operations Management . All areas of study involve roughly two years of coursework culminating in a field exam. The remaining years of the program are spent conducting independent research, working on co-authored publications, and writing the dissertation. Students join these programs from a wide range of backgrounds, from consulting to engineering. Many applicants possess liberal arts degrees, as there is not a requirement to possess a business degree before joining the program

The PhD in Business Economics provides students the opportunity to study in both Harvard’s world-class Economics Department and Harvard Business School. Throughout the program, coursework includes exploration of microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, probability and statistics, and econometrics. While some students join the Business Economics program directly from undergraduate or masters programs, others have worked in economic consulting firms or as research assistants at universities or intergovernmental organizations.

The PhD program in Health Policy (Management) is rooted in data-driven research on the managerial, operational, and strategic issues facing a wide range of organizations. Coursework includes the study of microeconomic theory, management, research methods, and statistics. The backgrounds of students in this program are quite varied, with some coming from public health or the healthcare industry, while others arrive at the program with a background in disciplinary research

The PhD program in Organizational Behavior offers two tracks: either a micro or macro approach. In the micro track, students focus on the study of interpersonal relationships within organizations and the effects that groups have on individuals. Students in the macro track use sociological methods to examine organizations, groups, and markets as a whole, including topics such as the influence of individuals on organizational change, or the relationship between social missions and financial objectives. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program includes core disciplinary training in sociology or psychology, as well as additional coursework in organizational behavior.

Accounting & Management  

Business economics  , health policy (management)  , marketing  , organizational behavior  , strategy  , technology & operations management  .

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How to Choose a PhD Program

Successfully completing a doctoral program requires commitment and perseverance. the most important step in this process is to consider whether academic life is right for you and what kind of doctoral program — from discipline to environment — will be the best fit for your goals and preferences., we asked our current students and faculty, “what is key to making this decision” following are some questions they suggested you ask yourself, and answer, in order to select the appropriate program..

First, a basic description of a doctoral program:

As a doctoral student, you will spend the first two years of your program exploring areas of interest through coursework. In the two to three years that follow, you will select and pursue your own research topic, one which will make an original contribution to the existing body of knowledge in your field. Your original research culminates in an extensive written document known as the doctoral dissertation.

General Questions

If you are considering your career options, answering these questions will help you clarify your goals and ambitions — and determine if a doctoral program is the right decision for you.

• Am I the type of person who is suited for a career in academia? Am I independently motivated to answer questions that I find interesting?
• Do I want to spend the rest of my career doing research, as well as reading and talking about it?
• Do I have a strong enough academic background in order to apply and be accepted by the program?
• Is now the time for me to pursue a PhD?
• What are my goals after completing the PhD?

Program Questions

If you know you want to pursue a doctoral degree, answers to these questions will help you select the right program for you.

• How many faculty are working with students?
• How many faculty members are doing research in areas related to my own interests?
• What opportunities are there to work with a variety of faculty and to be exposed to different approaches in research (modeling, work with data, experiment design)?
• Am I technically prepared to learn to do research in this field?
• Most PhD students change their vision of research and many change their intended concentration area after joining the program and being exposed to a variety of research styles. Does my program of choice offer flexibility needed to do so?
• Is there financial support for students to attend academic conferences to present their own research?
• What opportunities are there for students to participate in colloquia, both as an attendee and as a presenter?
• What is the department’s placement record? What types of jobs do graduates take and where?
• Finally, how well do graduates of the program perform in the long term (contributing to the field through publication, practice of management and earning tenure)?

Hear From Our Doctoral Community

From undergrad to phd, why i chose academic research instead of consulting.

Andrea Contigiani

What Brought This CDC Researcher to Wharton's PhD Program

Students sit around a table and discuss with a professor nearby. Photo source: Sallie

PhD Admissions

The PhD program in Psychology trains students for careers in research and teaching. In addition to a wide range of courses, the PhD program is characterized by close collaboration between students and their faculty advisors. 

General Information

The Department of Psychology holistically reviews each candidate's complete application to assess the promise of a career in teaching and research. Consideration is based on various factors, including courses taken, grade point average, letters of recommendation, and the statement of purpose. Additionally, the Department of Psychology places considerable emphasis on research training, and admitted students have often been involved in independent research as undergraduate students or post-baccalaureate settings. Although there are no course requirements for admission, all applicants should have sufficient foundational knowledge and research experience to engage in graduate-level coursework and research.

We accept students with undergraduate degrees and those with both undergraduate and master's degrees. An undergraduate psychology major is not required; the Department welcomes applicants from other academic backgrounds.

Our application portal will open for the AY25-26 admissions cycle on September 15, 2024.

How to Apply

Application and deadline.

Our 2025-26 Admissions application will open on September 15, 2024.

Applications will be due on November 30, 2024

The deadline for letters of recommendation will be  November 30, 2024 . 

Once an applicant submits the recommenders' information, the recommenders will receive an automated email with instructions for submitting the letter. Late letters should be sent directly to psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . Staff will add them to the application file if the review process is still underway. Still, the faculty reviewers are not obligated to re-review files for materials submitted after the deadline.

Generally, students will hear from us by the end of January. 

The status of submitted applications can be viewed anytime by logging in to the   application portal . 

The deadline to apply for the '25-26 PhD cohort this year is  November 30, 2024 . Applicants who are admitted to the program will matriculate in Autumn 2025. 

Our next admissions cycle will open in September 2025 and have a November 30, 2025 deadline.

In addition to the information below, please review the  Graduate Admissions  website prior to starting your application. The Department of Psychology does not have rolling admissions. We admit for the Autumn term only.

Requirements

• U.S. Bachelor's degree or its  foreign equivalent
• Statement of Purpose (submitted electronically as part of the graduate application). You will be able to specify three  Psychology Department faculty members , in order of preference, with whom you would like to work. 
• Three  Letters of Recommendation  (submitted electronically). A maximum of six letters will be accepted.
• Unofficial transcripts from all universities and colleges you have attended for at least one year must be uploaded to the graduate application. Applicants who reach the interview stage will be asked to provide official transcripts as well; Department staff will reach out to these applicants with instructions for submitting official transcripts. Please do  not  submit official transcripts with your initial application.
• Required for non-native English speakers: TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores, submitted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) electronically to Stanford. 

Application Fee

The fee to apply for graduate study at Stanford is $125. Fee waivers are available for some applicants. Please visit Graduate Admissions for information on applying for an  Application Fee Waiver .

Application Review & Status Check

The Department of Psychology welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. The review of applications is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, and admissions essays to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field.

To check the status or activity of your application, please log into your  application account . You can also send reminders to recommenders who have not yet submitted their letter of recommendation.

Due to limited bandwidth, the Department of Psychology staff will not answer any phone or email queries about application status, including requests to confirm the receipt of official transcripts.

Our faculty will interview prospective students before making final admission decisions. Candidates who progress to the interview round will be informed in January. Interviews are generally conducted in February.

The Department of Psychology recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.

• Diversity and Engagement in Psychology PhD Programs 
• Vice Provost for Graduate Education
• Stanford IDEAL
• Graduate Application Fee Waiver Information

For More Information

Please see our  list of Frequently Asked Questions  and  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (contact us)  should you have additional questions.

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• Master’s vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences

Master's vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences

Published on November 27, 2020 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on May 10, 2024.

The two most common types of graduate degrees are master’s and doctoral degrees:

• A master’s is a 1–2 year degree that can prepare you for a multitude of careers.
• A PhD, or doctoral degree, takes 3–7 years to complete (depending on the country) and prepares you for a career in academic research.

A master’s is also the necessary first step to a PhD. In the US, the master’s is built into PhD programs, while in most other countries, a separate master’s degree is required before applying for PhDs.

Master’s are far more common than PhDs. In the US, 24 million people have master’s or professional degrees, whereas only 4.5 million have doctorates.

Table of contents

Master’s vs phd at a glance, which is right for you, length of time required, career prospects, costs and salaries, application process, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about master's and phd degrees.

The table below shows the key differences between the two.

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A PhD is right for you if:

• Your goal is to become a professor at a university or some other type of professional researcher.
• You love research and are passionate about discovering the answer to a particular question.
• You are willing to spend years pursuing your research even if you have to put up with a lot of dead ends and roadblocks.

A master’s degree is the better choice if any of the following apply:

• You want to continue studies in your field, but you’re not committed to a career as a professional researcher.
• You want to develop professional skills for a specific career.
• You are willing to pay a higher upfront cost if it means finishing with your degree (and thus being able to work) much faster.
• You want the option to study part-time while working.

The length of time required to complete a PhD or master’s degree varies. Unsurprisingly, PhDs take much longer, usually between 3–7 years. Master’s degrees are usually only 1–2 years.

Length of a master’s

Master’s degrees are usually 2 years, although 1-year master’s degrees also exist, mainly in the UK.

Most of the degree consists of classes and coursework, although many master’s programs include an intensive, semester-long master’s thesis or capstone project in which students bring together all they’ve learned to produce an original piece of work.

Length of a PhD

In the US, a PhD usually takes between 5 and 7 years to complete. The first 2 years are spent on coursework. Students, even those who choose to leave without finishing the program, usually receive a master’s degree at this point.

The next 3–5 years are spent preparing a dissertation —a lengthy piece of writing based on independent research, which aims to make a significant original contribution to one’s field.

Master’s degrees tend to prepare you for a career outside of academia, while PhDs are designed to lead to a career in research.

Careers for master’s graduates

There are two types of master’s degrees: terminal and research-intensive. The career prospects are different for each.

Terminal master’s degrees are intended to prepare students for careers outside of academia. Some degrees, known as professional degrees, specifically prepare students for particular professions; these include the Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees.

Other master’s degrees, usually Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Sciences (MS or MSc) degrees, do not necessarily lead to a specific career, but are intended to be a final degree. Examples include an MS in Communications or MS in Data Analytics.

In research-intensive master’s programs, students take coursework intended to prepare them for writing an original piece of research known as the master’s thesis . Such programs are usually intended to prepare for further study in a doctoral program.

Careers for PhD graduates

As research degrees, PhDs are usually intended to lead to an academic career. A PhD can be thought of like an apprenticeship, where students learn from professional researchers (academics) how to produce their own research.

Most students aspire to become a university professor upon the completion of their degree. However, careers in academia are highly competitive, and the skills learned in a doctoral program often lend themselves well to other types of careers.

Some graduates who find they prefer teaching to producing research go on to be teachers at liberal arts colleges or even secondary schools. Others work in research-intensive careers in the government, private sector, or at think tanks.

Below are a few examples of specific fields and non-academic careers that are common destinations of graduates of those fields.

• Computer Science
• Lab Sciences

Many government jobs, including economists at a country’s central bank, are research-intensive and require a PhD. Think tanks also hire economists to carry out independent research.

In the private sector, economic consulting and technology firms frequently hire PhDs to solve real-world problems that require complex mathematical modeling.

Graduate students from the humanities are sometimes hired by museums, who can make use of their research and writing skills to curate exhibits and run public outreach.

Humanities PhDs are often well-suited to research and grant-writing roles at nonprofits. Since so much of research is funded by grants, PhD students often gain a lot of experience applying for them, which is a useful skill in the nonprofit sector.

There are a wide range of non-academic research jobs for lab scientists with doctorates in subjects like chemistry, biology, ecology and physics.

Many PhD graduates are hired by pharmaceutical companies that need to perform research to create and test their products. Government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), also hire lab scientists to work on research projects.

Job prospects after graduation vary widely based on the field. In fields like management, computer science, statistics, and economics, there’s little underemployment—even graduates from less well-known programs can easily find jobs that pay well and use the skills they’ve gained from the PhD.

However, in other fields, particularly in the humanities, many PhD graduates have difficulty in the job market. Unfortunately, there are far more PhD graduates than assistant professor roles, so many instead take on part-time and low-paid roles as adjunct instructors. Even non-academic careers can sometimes be difficult for PhDs to move into, as they may be seen as “overqualified”  or as lacking in relevant professional experience.

Because career options post-PhD vary so much, you should take the time to figure out what the career prospects are in your field. Doctoral programs often have detailed “placement” records online in which they list the career outcomes of their graduates immediately upon leaving the program. If you can’t find these records, contact the program and ask for them—placement information should play an important role in your choice of PhD program.

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Although PhDs take far longer to complete, students often receive a living stipend in exchange for being a teaching or research assistant. Master’s degrees are shorter but less likely to be funded.

Both master’s degrees and PhDs lead to increased salaries upon graduation. While PhDs usually earn a bit more than those with a master’s degree, in some fields, the wages are identical, meaning that no financial benefit is gained from going on to a PhD.

Cost of a master’s

The upfront cost of a master’s degree is usually higher than a doctoral degree due to the lower amount of financial aid available. However, increased salaries also arrive faster than with a doctoral degree, because people graduate much earlier from a master’s program.

Some master’s students do receive stipends for their degrees, usually as compensation for being a teaching or research assistant. In addition, many people complete master’s degrees part time while working full-time, which allows them to fund their living costs as well as tuition.

The cost varies significantly by school and program. Public schools are usually cheaper than private ones. Some master’s degrees, such as MBAs, are notoriously expensive, but also result in much higher wages afterwards that make up for the high cost.

The master’s wage premium , or the extra amount that someone with a master’s degree makes than someone with just a high school diploma, is 23% on average. Many universities provide detailed statistics on the career and salary outcomes of their students. If they do not have this online, you should feel free to contact an administrator of the program and ask.

Cost of a PhD

PhDs, particularly outside the humanities, are usually (though not always) funded, meaning that tuition fees are fully waived and students receive a small living stipend. During the last 3–5 years of a PhD, after finishing their coursework (and sometimes before), students are usually expected to work as graduate instructors or research assistants in exchange for the stipend.

Sometimes students can apply for a fellowship (such as the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Program in the United States) that relieves them of any obligations to be a teaching or research assistant. Doctoral programs in the US tend to be better funded than in the rest of the world.

Sometimes, PhD degrees can be completed part-time, but this is rare. Students are usually expected to devote at least 40 hours a week to their research and work as teaching or research assistants.

The main cost of doctoral programs comes in the form of opportunity cost—all the years that students could be working a regular, full-time job, which usually pays much better than a graduate school stipend.

The average wage premium for PhDs is 26%, which is not much higher than the master’s degree premium.

In the US, the application process is similar for master’s and PhD programs. Both will generally ask for:

• At least one application essay, often called a personal statement or statement of purpose .
• Letters of recommendation .
• A resume or CV .
• Transcripts.
• Writing samples.

Applications for both types of programs also often require a standardized test. PhDs usually require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which tries to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative, critical thinking , and analytical writing skills. Many master’s programs require this test as well.

Applying for a master’s

Master’s degrees programs will often ask you to respond to specific essay prompts that may ask you to reflect upon not just your academic background, but also your personal character and future career ambitions.

Northwestern University’s Kellogg Business School requires Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) applicants write two essays, one about a recent time they demonstrated leadership and the second about their personal values.

Who you should ask for your letters of recommendation varies by program. If you are applying to a research-intensive master’s program, then you should choose former professors or research supervisors. For other programs, particularly business school, current work supervisors may be a better choice.

Some professional master’s programs require a specific test. For example, to apply to law school, you must take the Law School Admissions Test, or LSAT. For business school, you must take either the GRE or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT).

Applying for a PhD

When applying for a PhD, your resume should focus more on your research background—you should especially emphasize any publications you’ve authored or presentations that you’ve given.

Similarly, your statement of purpose should discuss research that you’ve participated in, whether as an assistant or the lead author. You should detail what exactly you did in projects you’ve contributed to, whether that’s conducting a literature review, coding regressions, or writing an entire article.

Your letters of recommendations should be from former professors or supervisors who can speak to your abilities and potential as a researcher. A good rule of thumb is to avoid asking for recommendations from anyone who does not themselves have a PhD.

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

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A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

This depends on the country. In the United States, you can generally go directly to a PhD  with only a bachelor’s degree, as a master’s program is included as part of the doctoral program.

Elsewhere, you generally need to graduate from a research-intensive master’s degree before continuing to the PhD.

This varies by country. In the United States, PhDs usually take between 5–7 years: 2 years of coursework followed by 3–5 years of independent research work to produce a dissertation.

In the rest of the world, students normally have a master’s degree before beginning the PhD, so they proceed directly to the research stage and complete a PhD in 3–5 years.

A master’s degree usually has a higher upfront cost, but it also allows you to start earning a higher salary more quickly. The exact cost depends on the country and the school: private universities usually cost more than public ones, and European degrees usually cost less than North American ones. There are limited possibilities for financial aid.

PhDs often waive tuition fees and offer a living stipend in exchange for a teaching or research assistantship. However, they take many years to complete, during which time you earn very little.

In the US, the graduate school application process is similar whether you’re applying for a master’s or a PhD . Both require letters of recommendation , a statement of purpose or personal statement , a resume or CV , and transcripts. Programs in the US and Canada usually also require a certain type of standardized test—often the GRE.

Outside the US, PhD programs usually also require applicants to write a research proposal , because students are expected to begin dissertation research in the first year of their PhD.

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Doctorate Degree: What Is a Doctoral Degree?

Maybe you recently completed a master’s degree program and want to take your education — and your earning potential — to a higher level. Maybe you’re a high school senior who’s planning on a future career that requires you to hold a doctorate degree, such as becoming a psychiatrist or surgeon. Or, maybe you’re currently working toward your master’s or bachelor’s degree, and you want to know more about whether continuing your education is worthwhile.

Whichever stage you’ve reached in your academic or professional career, this guide will help answer the crucial question: What is a doctorate or doctoral degree, and is earning one the right choice for you? It covers all of your FAQs about doctorate degree programs, including answers to questions like:

• Is a doctorate degree the same as a PhD?
• What are the different types of doctoral programs?
• What are the stages of earning your doctoral degree?
• How much does a doctorate degree increase your earning potential?

If you’ve ever wondered about the answers to any of these questions, read on to discover the basics about doctoral degrees and PhD programs.

What is a Doctorate Degree?

A doctorate degree — also called a doctoral degree — is the most rigorous and advanced type of degree that a student can earn in any field of study. Regardless of which academic area is being studied, successful completion of a doctorate program demands years of intensive research — and the ability to contribute meaningful new data, solutions, theories, or analyses to the field. Professionals who obtain doctorate degrees have extensive experience and are regarded as authorities in their specialty areas. They are frequently sought after for consulting, management, or research positions in a variety of industries. By earning a doctorate degree, you can greatly enhance the power of your resume — and with it, your earning potential.

For more details on that subject, skip ahead to the section about average salaries for students who obtain doctorate degrees. Or, continue reading for the answer to one of our most frequently asked questions: is a doctorate degree the same as a PhD?

Doctorate vs. PhD Degrees

What’s the difference between a doctoral degree and a PhD? Put simply, a PhD or Doctor of Philosophy is a doctorate degree — but only one of several varieties. Read on to learn more about the major categories of doctoral degrees and some important ways in which they differ from one another.

Types of Doctoral Degrees

You already know that there are different types of graduate and undergraduate degrees, such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) versus a Bachelor of Science (BS), or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) versus a Master of Public Administration (MPA). A similar idea applies to doctoral degrees, which are also divided into several categories. Namely, there are two different types of doctorate degrees that students should be aware of:

Applied Practitioner-Based Doctoral Programs

Theoretically based doctoral programs.

The sections below will compare and contrast the important differences between these two-degree types.

Applied practitioner-based doctoral programs are also referred to as terminal or applied doctoral degrees. In contrast to PhD degrees, which the following section discusses in further detail, applied practitioner-based degrees place more of an emphasis on real-world problem-solving and the practical application of knowledge, as opposed to exploring new advancements or ideas in research and analysis.

These degrees are essential for those who wish to pursue certain career paths. For example, in addition to meeting other academic and professional criteria like passing the bar exam, you will need to obtain a Juris Doctor (JD) degree if your goal is to become an attorney. In addition to the JD for lawyers, here are four additional examples of professional or applied doctorate degrees:

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
• Doctor of Education (EDD)

This category includes the Doctor of Philosophy, also known as a PhD degree, which is applicable to various fields, such as holding a PhD in economics or psychology. However, it also includes various degrees whose titles and abbreviations may sound less familiar. For instance, did you know that a Doctor of Arts is actually a type of PhD, despite being called a DA? Here are four other examples of PhD degrees:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD-BA)
• Doctor in Organizational Innovation (EdD)
• Doctor of Theology (ThD)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD-PSY)

In contrast to a professional degree, such as a JD or EDD degree, a PhD is intensely research-oriented with a strong focus on presenting new knowledge or theories via the student’s dissertation. This is also the reason why PhD programs which have nothing to do with “philosophy” in the conventional sense are described using this term.

Steps To Obtain a Doctorate

Depending on factors like the format and pace of the program, it may require anywhere from three to eight years to obtain a doctorate degree, depending on your program and commitment to your dissertation, as the section below discusses in further detail. So, what will you be doing as a student throughout that time?

To make your academic journey manageable and help ensure you remain focused on your goals, it’s important to have a clear road map to success. When comparing programs, it’s helpful to have an understanding of the four basic stages to earning your doctorate degree:

• Complete undergraduate and graduate degree programs to gain the prerequisite knowledge, training, skills, and qualifications you will need to enter your chosen doctoral program.
• Research and compare different options in detail, then apply to a doctorate program that’s aligned with your professional goals.
• Complete all of your coursework requirements.
• Complete an original dissertation on your chosen topic of research.

Read on to learn more about these key steps to earning a doctorate degree — and what will be required of you at each checkpoint. Or, if you’re ready to apply now, get in touch with our friendly team of enrollment counselors to learn more about the coursework and criteria for your program.

Step 1: Complete Your Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree

Doctorate programs, which are growing more sought-after by students and employers alike, have rigorous and competitive application requirements. In addition to meeting other criteria which vary by institution and major, students will also generally need to possess a graduate or undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor’s degree, from an accredited college or university.

If you’re at the beginning of your academic journey and are applying to undergraduate programs, you should strongly consider selecting a program that is directly relevant to the master’s and/or doctorate program you intend to eventually enroll in — for example, mapping out a career in healthcare that begins with your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and culminates with a doctorate, like your Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD). However, it’s also possible to change careers if you’ve already completed your undergraduate degree.

With online classes and accelerated coursework, plus the option to transfer credits, National University provides the framework for you to launch or advance a rewarding career — no matter which stage of your journey you’ve reached. Explore our accredited master’s degree programs and bachelor’s degree programs for graduate and undergraduate students.

Step 2: Apply to Doctorate Programs

A doctorate program is a major investment in terms of the time, effort, and dedication required to reach your goals. It’s important to select a program that is not only reputable and accredited, but also, one that provides the support and flexibility you need in terms of scholarships and financial aid options ; is designed to help you complete your degree at an accelerated pace; features resources for U.S. military service members and Veterans, which you can learn more about here; and offers the option to complete portions of your doctorate coursework online.

National University offers three WASC-accredited doctoral programs in the fields of healthcare, psychology, and education, which you can read more about below. For additional information, contact our admissions office online or explore the following program pages.

• Doctor of Clinical Psychology Program (PsyD) — Students in our PsyD program complete a total of 180 program units covering coursework like Group Dynamics, Informed Treatment Planning, and Psychopharmacology. The PsyD program at National University is comprised of Ethnographic Placement, Beginning Practicum, Advanced Practicum, and Predoctoral Internship components culminating in a dissertation, and is designed to prepare students for roles as consultants, clinicians, evaluators, program administrators, and more.
• Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) — The Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice, or DNAP degree, is a fast-paced, three-year hybrid program that integrates online coursework with a 15-month didactic residency at NU’s Fresno campus. The DNAP degree program at National University prepares students for challenging roles in anesthesia care delivery via coursework like Anesthesia Pharmacology, Principles of Anesthesia, and Anesthesia Physiology, along with clinical rotations and a capstone project.
• Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation — Organizational innovation is an exciting academic field that looks at how to design and implement visionary solutions to a variety of challenges facing businesses, government entities, and other organizations. Coursework includes Innovation Theories and Application, Knowledge Management for Innovation, and Emerging Issues and Trends, concluding with a culminating project.

Step 3: Complete Program Coursework

In a doctoral degree program, students will typically complete a blend of core or required courses, seminars, practicums, labs, and electives, ultimately culminating in a dissertation or capstone project. Of course, as with any bachelor’s or master’s degree program, the specific nature and focus of your coursework is dependent on your area of study. For example, students in the Ed.D. program at National University complete mandatory courses in innovation theory and methods of inquiry, whereas students in our PsyD program are required to complete courses in subjects such as psychopathology, clinical theory, and multicultural awareness.

Whether it consists primarily of online or in-person study, you can expect your doctorate coursework to be rigorous. By this stage of your academic career, you’ll have completed your basic education and training and moved onto more challenging and scholarly areas of research, tackling complex real-world problems and presenting innovative, potentially even experimental solutions.

Step 4: Complete Your Dissertation

Most doctorate programs culminate in a major research project known as a dissertation, in which the student contributes to the scholarly body of work in their field by presenting their own original theories, research, or data analysis, or by building meaningfully upon the work of previous scholars and researchers. A dissertation usually takes the form of a written paper ranging anywhere in length from 100 to 300 pages, depending on the volume of data and complexity of the subject matter.

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Doctorate?

The time it takes to finish a doctorate program and earn your degree varies. However, most doctorate programs require anywhere from three to eight years to complete. The exact length of time depends on factors like the structure of your degree program; whether or not you decide to work and/or take time off between any of your courses; whether you attend your program on a full-time or part-time basis; the amount of time it takes you to finish researching, writing, and editing your dissertation; and, of course, which degree you’re pursuing.

At National University, our flexibly scheduled yet aggressively paced programs enable students to complete their education sooner — and advance along their chosen career paths faster. For example, our PsyD program may be completed in five years, while our Ed.D. and DNAP programs may be completed in as little as just three years, including options to complete portions of the program online while also integrating hands-on experience like the residency component of our accredited DNAP degree.

Demand for Doctoral Degrees

The demand for doctoral degrees continues to grow as industries seek highly specialized knowledge and advanced research skills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in doctoral and professional-level occupations is projected to grow by about 13% from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations​. This increasing demand is particularly evident in fields such as healthcare, education, and technology, where the expertise and innovation brought by doctoral graduates are highly valued.

Salary Expectations for a Doctorate Degree

Pursuing a doctorate degree will expose you to new challenges and place you on the cutting edge of exciting new research in your field — and from a financial perspective, your degree will also help you to qualify for higher paid, more specialized positions. A doctorate degree or other advanced degree can also help you stand out favorably from other job applicants. So just how much can you expect to earn with a doctoral degree, depending on your chosen field and career?

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), holding a doctoral degree is correlated with increased earnings, as you can see in the following table . For example, the BLS reports that holders of doctorate degrees earned median weekly pay of approximately $1,900, compared to that of master’s degree holders (about $1,570) or the holders of bachelor’s and associate’s degrees (about $1,330 and $960, respectively). While pursuing a doctorate degree requires an investment in your education, it also offers a worthwhile return in the form of enhanced lifelong earning power — especially if you are able to qualify for scholarships and/or financial aid.

Who Is a Good Fit for a Doctoral Program?

Doctoral programs are ideal for individuals with a passion for deep research and a commitment to advancing knowledge in their field. “At NU, our Doctoral programs are specifically designed to accommodate non-traditional working students with many different competing responsibilities, from individuals being employed full-time and raising children to military service members serving across the globe… thus, our flexible online approach to learning combined with individualized mentoring from our faculty truly supports these busy and demanding schedules, assisting our students to realize their dream of earning a doctorate, and going on to do great things for themselves, their families, and for others in their communities,” says Andy Riggle, Associate Vice President, O ffice of Graduate Studies .

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Career?

A doctorate degree enhances your marketability when applying for a wide range of jobs, qualifying you for complex managerial and leadership roles in fields ranging from medicine to psychology to engineering to law. Challenge yourself and elevate your career by taking the first steps toward a doctoral degree today. Contact our admissions office to learn more about the doctorate programs we offer and how they are accredited, or apply online today.

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Explore the Doctoral Program

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Prepare for careers in multidisciplinary research environments.

Through courses and experiences, gain the knowledge and skills to conduct public policy and management research and inform practice.

Core Coursework

All doctoral students take core coursework on the professional and intellectual foundations of public affairs, public policy, public economics, organization theory and behavior, and research methods.

Public Affairs Foundations and Inquiry

• PUBAFRS 8000: Public Policy and Management Foundations & Approaches
• PUBAFRS 8890.01: First Year Doctoral Seminar
• PUBAFRS 8890.02: Second Year Doctoral Seminar
• PUBAFRS 8890.03: Third Year Doctoral Seminar

Public Policy Processes and Analysis

•  PUBAFRS 8030: Seminar in Public Policy & Analysis

Public Sector Economics and Finance

• PUBAFRS 8050: Seminar in Public Sector Economics
• PUBAFRS 6040: Public Budgeting and Finance

Organizational Theory and Behavior

• PUBAFRS 8040: Seminar in Organizational Theory & Public Management

Research Design and Methods

• PUBAFRS 8782: Policy Modeling Seminar
• Econometrics I & II (or equivalent)
• Two additional methods courses (qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods) aligned with student interests.

Specialized Coursework

In addition to core coursework, students take three or more elective courses within the Glenn College or across the university to develop specialized expertise in a focus area. Many students take additional specialized courses to obtain official graduate minors or interdisciplinary specializations. Explore  a full listing of minors, interdisciplinary specializations, and certificates available to OSU graduate students.

Common Focus Areas

• Public management
• Nonprofit management
• Education and workforce policy
• Housing and community/urban/economic development policy
• Social policy
• Energy and environmental policy and governance
• Food policy and food system governance
• Science and technology policy and management
• Criminal justice policy and management 

Common Graduate Minors

Common interdisciplinary specialization.

• Data-Driven Sustainable Energy Systems
• Quantitative Research Methods

Additional Degree Requirements

• First year paper: Student work closely with a faculty member on an empirical manuscript during their first year, and each student presents their completed paper during autumn of their second year.
• Candidacy Exams: Students take written and oral exams during the summer between their second and third years in the program. Passing these exams typically marks the completion of core coursework and the beginning of students’ dissertation research.
• Dissertation Proposal: Students defend their dissertation proposals by the end of the third year or the very beginning of the fourth year in the program.
• Dissertation Defense : Students complete the program with an oral defense of their completed dissertation, typically at the end of the fourth or fifth year.

Funded Opportunities

Energy system resilience and equity, assessing the early childhood policy landscape in ohio.

Read more about Glenn College’s selective, research-oriented doctoral program:

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A&T Expands Graduate Degree Programs Amid Unprecedented Growth

By Hope Baptiste / 09/03/2024 Academic Affairs

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EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Sept. 3, 2024) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has added five new graduate degree programs to its curriculum — three of which gained approval in a single academic year. The university now offers nearly 50 graduate programs across nine colleges and two schools.

 The university welcome the first cohorts of students this fall to its M.S. and Ph.D. programs in criminal justice , as well as its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The doctoral program in criminal justice is the only one of its kind in North Carolina.

N.C. A&T is also launching a Ph.D. program in applied psychology, which is awaiting accreditation by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) , an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education; and an M.S. in physician assistant studies, which is awaiting specialized accreditation. These programs hope to enroll students beginning Fall 2025.

“Data show that the greatest need for advanced-degree training is centered in healthcare and STEM-related fields,” said Clay Gloster Jr., Ph.D., P.E., vice provost for Graduate Research and dean of The Graduate College. “These new programs will help address those critical needs in the workforce and expand opportunities in law and criminal justice, as well.

“As the nation’s most affordable doctoral research university , A&T is making exceptional graduate education accessible and strengthening its position as a top research and doctorate producing institution."

Housed in the Department of Criminal Justice within A&T’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences , the criminal justice master’s and doctoral programs provide exceptional graduate education and training in criminal justice with four areas of specialization: investigative science, digital forensics, research methodology and social justice. The Ph.D. is the college’s first doctoral program.

The two programs emphasize an interdisciplinary approach to academics, research, professional development and leadership. The curriculum and training build on the department’s partnership with local and regional law enforcement agencies. The master’s program is available on campus and online, while the Ph.D. program is offered on campus only.

A&T’s School of Nursing , housed within the John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences, offers the entry option for the BSN, the traditional four-year BSN, the accelerated one-year BSN for graduates with a bachelor’s degree and the RN-BSN completion for registered nurses.

The new DNP prepares BSN and master trained nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership. Delivered in a hybrid format, the DNP curriculum integrates emerging technology as well as health equity and social justice components to strategically address healthcare challenges. The overall goal is to increase minority students' representation in advanced nursing practice and leadership.

The program bridges workforce gaps in two critical areas: Psychiatry/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providers and Nursing Leadership. More importantly, the program equips future nursing leaders with emerging healthcare technology skills (e.g. telehealth, artificial intelligence, sensors and virtual reality) and competencies to address health equity and social justice.

 “North Carolina A&T’s longstanding commitment to academic excellence ensures future generations of practitioners, public servants and change-makers are well prepared to make positive, lasting impacts in our communities and beyond,” said Tonya Smith-Jackson, Ph.D., provost and executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “These programs further bolster our place among the nation’s leading doctoral research universities and give our students the tools, training and support they need to learn, thrive and succeed.”

These new degree programs punctuate A&T’s phenomenal growth over the past decade. While final enrollment figures are not yet available,  the university has enrolled  more than 14,000 students for academic year 2024-25, eclipsing its enrollment of 13,885 for academic year 2023-24 . The university continues to invest in infrastructure, resources, support services and student success efforts to sustain and enhance its excellence as it grows.

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Congratulations to the 2024 EPP/MSI Graduate Fellowship Program recipients

The NOAA Office of Education selected two recipients, Keneshia Hibbert and Nigel Lascelles, for the José E. Serrano Educational Partnership Program with Minority Serving Institutions (EPP/MSI) Graduate Fellowship Program, class of 2024.

The EPP/MSI Graduate Fellowship Program announced two recipients in 2024, Keneshia Hibbert (left) and Nigel Lascelles (right). Keneshia is a Ph.D. student supported by the NOAA Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technology II. Nigel is a Ph.D. student supported by the NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems II. (Image credit: Elvis Efamba/NOAA Office of Education)

The EPP/MSI Graduate Fellowship Program is a one-year research and professional development experience at a NOAA facility. Applicants must be current full time students attending one of NOAA’s EPP/MSI Cooperative Science Centers and pursuing graduate degrees in disciplines aligned with the NOAA mission. 

Keneshia and Nigel will each conduct their research at a NOAA facility under the guidance of a NOAA mentor and their graduate advisors. Through this fellowship experience, they will become familiar with NOAA’s mission of science, service, and stewardship and build their professional networks at NOAA.

"I am delighted to welcome Keneshia and Nigel! They bring so much great expertise. We look forward to seeing their valuable contributions to NOAA’s research and professional community," said Louisa Koch, Director of Education.

2024 Graduate Fellowship Program awardees

Keneshia Hibbert

Keneshia Hibbert is an atmospheric and ocean sciences Ph.D. student at the City University of New York and a NOAA Center for Earth System Science and Remote Sensing Technology II fellow. Keneshia will conduct her fellowship research in NOAA NESDIS STAR under the mentorship of Thomas Smith, Ph.D., and her academic advisor, Jorge González-Cruz, Ph.D.

I look forward to mentorship from experienced NOAA scientists and subject matter experts who can offer guidance, professional development, and insights into career pathways within NOAA. Keneshia Hibbert , 2024 EPP/MSI Graduate Fellow

What do you expect to accomplish during your tenure as an EPP/MSI graduate fellow?

My goal is to expand and build on my research experience and skills, and to build my understanding of how my research aligns not only to the NOAA mission, but also to my personal professional goals. I expect publication and presentation opportunities, personal growth, and insight on development of policy and operational decision-making within NOAA. I look forward to mentorship from experienced NOAA scientists and subject matter experts who can offer guidance, professional development, and insights into career pathways within NOAA.

Can you briefly describe your fellowship research and how it aligns with NOAA’s mission?

My fellowship research will examine sea surface temperature warming trends and extremes, and their implications, in the Wider Caribbean Region. It will focus on the association between rising sea surface temperatures and marine heatwaves in the North Atlantic and Wider Caribbean. My findings have implications for coral reef restoration, marine ecosystem health, and vulnerable species populations. The project is associated with the NOAA Caribbean Climate Adaptation Network initiative, a NOAA Climate Adaptation Partnerships program to bridge the gap between scientific research, results, and stakeholder use within local communities. 

This work aligns with NOAA’s mission to understand and predict environmental changes while conserving and managing our coastal and marine resources to support the nation’s economic, social, and environmental needs.

Nigel Lascelles

Nigel Lascelles is a coastal and marine system sciences Ph.D. student at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi and a NOAA Center for Coastal and Marine Ecosystems II fellow. Nigel will conduct his fellowship research at the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Service Hollings Marine Laboratory under the mentorship of Marie DeLorenzo, Emily Pisarski, and Ed Wirth, and his academic advisors, Hussain Abdulla and Paul Montagna.

I aim to refine my analytical chemistry skills while deepening my understanding of ecotoxicology, ensuring that my work contributes to meaningful, big-picture research to help advance NOAA’s mission of protecting coastal ecosystems. Nigel Lascelles , 2024 EPP/MSI Graduate Fellow

I anticipate significant growth as a scientist by conducting cutting-edge research alongside NOAA experts. My goal is to refine my analytical chemistry skills while deepening my understanding of ecotoxicology, ensuring that my work contributes to research to help advance NOAA’s mission of protecting coastal ecosystems. I want this experience to provide a pathway to a career in the future with NOAA, where I can continue making meaningful contributions to environmental science and conservation through the lens of environmental chemistry.

During my fellowship, my research will focus on the leachate from tire wear particles and its potential impact on aquatic species as a source of organic contaminants. This work continues to build on my dissertation research, which previously found that tire wear particle leachate contains a complex mixture of contaminants. It will help close research gaps regarding how these complex contaminant mixtures affect marine ecosystems. Specifically, I will research tire wear particle leachate’s direct toxicity to amphipods, a marine invertebrate, and their potential for bioaccumulation of organic contaminants.

This research aligns with NOAA’s mission to protect coastal ecosystems and supports efforts to mitigate pollution.

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How to make the most of your first year at Harvard

Shop classes, avoid echo chambers, embrace the Red Line — and other faculty tips for new students

Harvard Staff Writer

For the more than 1,650 first-year students who moved in last week, College has already started amid excitement and occasional jitters. We asked faculty to share advice with members of the Class of 2028 on how to make the most of their first year. Here is what they had to say, in their own words.

‘Just about everyone feels overwhelmed, or lonely, or stupid, or unprepared for College at some point’

Alison frank johnson professor of history, department of history.

My first recommendation for new students is to take at least one risk academically. I don’t mean a course that seems like it’s going to be “hard” so much as something off the beaten track for Harvard first-years. There’s a lot of passed-down knowledge about what to do: take a freshman seminar, Ec 10, a big gen ed, expos, and maybe Math 1. Hundreds — literally — of your classmates will choose four out of those five options in the fall. And you might think that if everyone does it, it can’t be the wrong thing to do. Fair enough. But I would still say: Consider doing something else. Consider taking a class in a discipline that didn’t even exist in your high school but that you’re curious about. Maybe anthropology.

My second recommendation is to go to office hours, but I figure everyone says that, so I probably don’t have to elaborate.

As for as things to avoid — I guess I would say suffering in silence. It’s easy — especially at Harvard — to assume that everyone else is having a great time, that everyone else thinks classes are easy and has a ton of friends and is just having the best time ever and so if you are struggling with anything, it’s because you don’t actually belong at Harvard. But I would bet that, whether you know it or not, just about everyone feels overwhelmed, or lonely, or stupid, or unprepared for College at some point. Whatever you’re struggling with, there’s someone who wants to help you with it. There are tutors, and teaching fellows, and faculty; there are counselors, and proctors, and peer advisers, and coaches. Somewhere in that group of people is at least one person who deserves your trust and will help you. Reach out!

Dig deep when picking classes. Don’t overpack schedule.

Jie li professor of east asian languages and civilizations, department of east asian languages and civilizations.

In my last year of high school, I came across a memorable quotation from Arthur Miller at my public library. He recalled his university experience as “the testing ground for all my prejudices, my beliefs, and my ignorance.” I took this as my motto for what I wanted to get out of College as well. College is a space to meet kindred spirits, but this doesn’t necessarily mean spending time exclusively with people like you. Rather than the comfort of any echo chamber, you learn much more from people from different backgrounds. Be an empathetic listener and refrain from making quick judgments.

Don’t be afraid to take risks and venture out of your comfort zone in your choices of classes and extracurriculars. Apart from continuing what you excel at, follow your curiosity and try something new. Browse through lists of courses by department rather than only search for keywords you are already familiar with. Before classes began in my freshman year at Harvard, my roommate and I spent hours reading through a thick printed course catalog and sharing our discoveries of interesting classes and fields unavailable to us in high school. Had I only relied on algorithms to choose classes, I may not have ended up studying anthropology or film studies. Take some small classes. You will get to know your professor and classmates much better, feel more invested in the class, and thus participate more actively. Don’t overpack your schedule. Drop a class or extracurricular commitment if you no longer have time for fun, friends, meals, exercise, or sleep.

Attend events on campus and across the Charles. Explore library treasures.

Joseph blatt senior lecturer in education, harvard graduate school of education.

My daughter Talia graduated from the College last year; I graduated so long ago that I no longer divulge the year. But despite the time lapse, we find that our advice for first-years is quite similar. Our joint recommendations:

Your academic experience will be far richer if you make the effort to get to know some of your professors. Take advantage of office hours — they are often shockingly underattended — and don’t be shy about engaging in conversations that go beyond the boundaries of the course. You can even invite them to dinner, and Classroom to Table will pay!

Think of Harvard as your fifth course (or sixth for the overzealous). The torrent of talks, performances, and other events that flow across campus every week will offer some of the most powerful learning you’ll experience here — along with the chance to meet new people, exercise your body and mind, and indulge in an unbelievable amount of free food.

Explore Harvard’s more than 60 libraries, where you will find treasures not available on screen: wonderfully obscure books, an amazing historical map collection, precious manuscripts, famous people’s recipes … along with brilliant reference librarians who are unfailingly eager to help.

The Red Line, with all its faults, is your ticket to downtown Boston. Don’t miss the Freedom Trail, art museums, music venues, and cuisines from around the world. And that way, when people ask, “Where do you go to college?” and you respond “er … Boston,” you’ll be closer to telling the truth.

This is starting to sound too much like “Let’s Go,” so we leave you with two thoughts focused on your studies: Pay attention to how you learn and choose courses and classrooms that make you happy; and don’t compare yourself to your peers — be pleased for their success, not threatened by it.

Ask for help. Study abroad.

Gabriela soto laveaga professor of the history of science, antonio madero professor for the study of mexico, department of the history of science.

I would definitely tell first-year students to think of asking for help as a necessary part of being successful at Harvard and beyond. Time and again, I see that the most successful Harvard students are the ones who not only reached out for help (either with writing, math, mental health, for instance), but knew who or where to ask. First-years need to explore the support network that is offered to them and use it. It is there for them.

Also, they must all do a study abroad while they are students.

Try everything. Share projects. Requirements can wait.

Stephanie burt donald p. and katherine b. loker professor of english, department of english.

Starting with academics, and moving into the rest of your life:

DO: Take classes that look interesting, especially if they’re small. Your first year can let you explore your actual interests, even if they’re not connected to your planned concentration, grad school, or career. You might even change those plans to reflect a talent, or a power, or a strong interest you didn’t know you had!

DO: Shop. We’ve got an add-drop period for a reason. Listen to the professor and see if you vibe with that teaching style. Speak with the professor if you like! And talk to non-first-years who’ve taken courses with that professor before.

DON’T: Try to get all your requirements out of the way early. You can take the requirements that don’t matter to you (for most people those are gen eds) junior or senior year when your other classes are big-deal, high-effort courses in your concentration. There’s no reason to take more than one gen ed in a term: Especially curious or ambitious first-years might take none.

DO: Study the past. Don’t confine yourself to the present as you choose courses in the arts and humanities. A lot of fascinating people died a long time ago. Some of them made some cool stuff.

DO: Try everything, including stuff you didn’t think you were good at. Many of us got to Harvard by choosing, in high school, mostly to do stuff we considered ourselves very good at. You got into Harvard. You have room to experiment. Comp or do something you never thought you could do.

DON’T: Stay on campus all day every day. The musical, literary, theatrical, gamer-nerd, ethno-cultural, culinary, recreational, and technical offerings of the Greater Boston area far exceed what you can find on campus, even though campus has a lot to offer. You may find your favorite new band at the Middle East (the rock club in Central Square, not the geographic region). You could find your new best friend at MIT.

DO: Look for people like you. Intense Dungeons and Dragons players, fashion plates, curling obsessives — Harvard’s big enough that you can probably find at least a few peers.

DON’T: Assume people unlike you won’t hang out with you. Some of the friends you make this year will have backgrounds much like yours. Some very much won’t.

DON’T: Spend all your time studying. Honestly, Harvard students probably spend less time on average studying — especially if you exclude future doctors — than students at some other super-elite colleges, and that’s a feature, not a bug, for Harvard: You’ve got time to meet students who share your ambitions, and take part in massive shared projects, and build what you want to build, and discover what you want to discover, both with, and far away from, classrooms and grades and professors like me.

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