How to earn a psychology doctorate: complete guide.
A doctorate in psychology is time consuming, but worthwhile in creating opportunities to work in clinical settings, research, academia, or organizational consulting. They usually fall under two main umbrella categories, a Ph.D. In psychology which is heavily research and academia focused, or a PsyD in psychology which focuses more heavily on the practical, hands on aspects of the career.
Step 1: Meet the prerequisites.
Many programs are willing to accept students with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or an related field and who possess a solid academic background and some knowledge of statistics, along with letters of recommendation, and a compelling statement of purpose. Many applicants are also willing to obtain their Master's degree prior to application, but it is not always a prerequisite.
Step 2: Gain experience.
Most strong applicants have some research experience or experience in a related field like an internship or a job in a mental health care setting. An year or two of lab work or experience out in the field could mean a significant difference in the probability of admission.
Step 3: Get ready to face exams.
Some universities might ask applicants to take tests like the GRE and other tests to assess English speaking ability like the IELTS or TOEFL. Applications usually consist of transcripts, a resume or CV, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and possibly a research proposal.
Step 4: Choose an appropriate institution.
Where a degree is earned matters so research the institution and their programs for such things as accreditation, faculty expertise, research programs offered, financial aid options available and internship placement support. While major universities may have stellar research programs, there are several excellent accredited programs out there that would produce good candidates as well.
Step 5: Complete course work and training.
Your doctorate in psychology will involve two to three years of intensive study including research methodology and statistics, and classes that are psychology-specific. It's then time to decide whether you want to study something specialized like neuropsychology, forensic psychology, or counseling psychology.
Step 6: Obtain a dissertation and experience.
An enormous part of your psychology degree will be completing and writing a dissertation based on your research, and defending your findings in an oral presentation. A student going through a clinical program will spend time getting supervised training.
Step 7: Apply for a license and pursue a career.
To get your psychology license you will need to obtain your degree and some amount of supervised practice and pass a written exam. After that you could start your career as a psychologist, counselor, or professor depending on which road you chose to take, where the income would depend on where you are living and your level of experience.
Conclusion.
The Doctorate degree in psychology generally takes between six to ten years of devoted study and practice. It takes dedication and patience, but if you are driven, it opens you up to rewarding opportunities where you can help improve people's lives.
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