PhD in Psychology

What is a PhD in Psychology?

As the standard research degree in its field, the PhD in Psychology is excellent preparation for a wide range of careers. It is also an extremely intensive option, entailing several years of rigorous study and research, so it is unequivocally not for those whose interest in psychology is casual or whose career goals can be met through other means. As with any degree at the Doctoral level, a PhD in Psychology is designed for those who are deeply passionate about psychology and who want to devote their lives to research, teaching, and practice in that discipline.

What sets the PhD apart from other Doctoral degrees in psychology is that it involves more research and comparatively less applied work than a PsyD or Ed.D. The PhD in Psychology takes longer than any other graduate degree to complete (roughly 5 to 7 years), and requires a dissertation based on original research. The dissertation is an independent research project completed after at least two years of coursework and a residency or internship. Those who graduate with a PhD in Psychology are expected to contribute actively to their chosen sub-fields, and usually work as professors rather than practicing psychologists. This is, of course, not always the case – many PhDs go on to work in private practice, school counseling, etc., and others will go on to work in University administrations.

How do I get into a PhD program?

To get into a reputable program leading to a PhD in Psychology, you will need at least a Bachelor’s degree, and probably high scores on standardized tests. Of course, the most prestigious and successful programs have the most stringent requirements. In general, it is helpful but not strictly necessary to have majored in Psychology as an undergraduate. A college degree in the field is important preparation for the rigors of a Doctoral program, and it may be difficult to complete a PhD in Psychology without the right academic background. That said, your undergraduate major is not the sole or even the most salient factor in determining your admissions chances. You will also need strong test scores, convincing letters of recommendation, and an impressive writing sample. Most programs require applicants for a PhD in Psychology to take the GRE General Test, and many require the Subject Test in Psychology as well. Contact admissions offices at your schools of choice to determine their average and/or minimum scores. GRE scores are important, but letters and writing samples are usually weighted much more heavily. In general, your letters should come from professors, rather than supervisors or other acquaintances, unless you have psychology-related work experience that you want to highlight. The writing sample, required by most programs, should illustrate your prior experience in psychology or a related field, and your ability to conduct sophisticated research and present it in a lucid and convincing manner. Remember: the PhD in Psychology is centered on research rather than practice, so your application should reflect your abilities and interest in psychology as a research science.

Completing Your Degree Online

Completing a PhD in Psychology online is something to think twice about. Because the PhD is primarily a degree for aspiring academics, and because academia is a highly competitive and prestigious industry, an online PhD in Psychology may be less valuable than one completed at a more traditional campus. That said, there are those for whom an online PhD is exactly the right option. Completing your degree online offers several distinct advantages, of which perhaps the most important is the ability of students to set their own schedules. For working adults and busy parents, the traditional modes of study for the PhD in Psychology are simply not an option. Online classes make the degree a possibility, and so even though potential academic employers are generally somewhat skeptical of PhDs completed entirely at virtual campuses, it may be worthwhile for those who would otherwise be unable to pursue the degree at all.

Advice for Prospective Students

Before applying for a PhD in Psychology, you will want to ask yourself a few very important questions: Are you prepared to commit the next several years of your life to studying psychology full-time or almost full-time? Do you know enough about the field to choose the right program for you and to determine which of the many sub-disciplines of psychology you will focus on? Are there other degrees, less expensive and time-consuming, that might meet your career needs? You will also want to do considerable research on each individual program before you apply, since degree requirements, admissions standards, and career prospects upon graduation all vary widely from one program to another.