steps to phd degree

• How to Apply For a PhD: Step-By-Step

Written by Hannah Slack

Deciding to do a PhD is a big step and the road to submitting applications can seem long. To help you wade through all the information out there we’ve put together a simple step-by-step guide to the PhD application process.

Complete with top tips and links to further information, applying for a PhD has never looked simpler.

On this page

Step 1: choose your research area.

The first, and most obvious, step to applying for a PhD is to decide what research area you want to work in. Whether you’re looking for an Arts and Humanities PhD or a STEM one, each individual subject is made up of a vast array of research topics.

Most PhD courses will expect students to have a degree in a relevant field, although your previous qualifications do not have to be in the exact same discipline as the PhD you apply for. Students with a Masters in History, for example, may apply to research within the Religious Studies department. As long as the nature of research is similar and your chosen topic correlates with your experience, it’s possible to apply for a degree in a different department.

It’s worthwhile spending a bit of time considering what department you might want to join and what type of research you want to conduct.

Create a my FindAPhD account

Set-up an account to make your search easier. You can save programmes, send enquiries to institutions, view upcoming events, and see the latest news and updates, all in one place.

Step 2: decide what kind of PhD you want to do

There are two main types of PhDs: predesigned projects and self-proposed projects. The route you choose to take will mainly depend on your personal preference and situation.

While STEM subjects tend to have more predesigned projects, there are many students who choose to plan their own. Similarly, most Arts and Humanities PhDs are self-proposed but there are also many advertised projects out there.

Predesigned project

Advertised projects usually come in three different forms:

• Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
• Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)

The main difference between these three types of PhDs is the level of industry experience offered to students, DTPs usually having the least industry involvement and iCASEs the most. However, all three do offer internship opportunities.

Some of these terms are used interchangeably, but you can read more about the differences between predesigned studentships in our guide.

The benefit of predesigned projects is that they are typically fully-funded four-year studentships. There are also many that come with an integrated Masters during the first year for those applying with only a Bachelors degree.

You also won’t have to research and plan your own project, which can save a lot of time.

However, as multiple students will be applying for the same advertised PhD opportunities, places can be competitive. Your choice of projects will also be limited to whatever research is currently advertised.

Design your own project

Many students in all fields choose to design and propose their own research project for PhD study. This option can be extremely rewarding as it allows students a lot more control over their work.

The downside is that not every self-proposed PhD is funded. While there are lots of funding opportunities available, there is not enough to cover the amount of PhD applications each year. Students may have to apply for part-time work or small grants throughout their studies.

Additionally, you will have to put in more time to your application as you need to design a viable PhD project.

For students choosing this route some additional steps are needed:

Step 2.1: research

To be able to propose a viable research project, you will need to spend a significant amount of time researching your chosen field. You may have already conducted some research during your previous degrees, giving you a good starting point.

The point of this step is to become familiar with the main academic arguments in your research area. You should then be able to identify a gap in the academic discussion which you will be able to fill in the timeframe of a PhD. This could include discussing an underused or new source base, criticising an academic argument or applying a new or different theory to the current discussions.

You should then look to identify a preliminary source base and decide how you intend to use the information.

Step 2.2: draft a research proposal

After completing a period of research, you should write up a draft research proposal. While this won’t be your final piece for submission with your application, having a draft can be useful when it comes to step three, contacting prospective supervisors. You can find out more about how to write a good PhD proposal in our guide.

Step 3: contact prospective supervisors

Once you have decided on which projects you intend to apply for, or drafted a research proposal, it’s time to reach out to prospective supervisors. This is an important step as it allows you to gain more insight into how your potential PhD might go. Our top tips for getting in contact with potential PhD supervisors can help you to reach out.

For predesigned projects the supervisor will be listed in the advertisement. By contacting them you can introduce yourself and discuss the research in more detail.

If you are proposing your own PhD research then you will have to search for potential supervisors yourself. The research stage of step two should mean that you have a good grip on the prominent academics in your field. This is a good place to start. It is also worthwhile looking through staff lists on university websites to find other experts who are perhaps earlier on in their career.

Contacting prospective supervisors is a good opportunity to receive feedback on your ideas and research proposal. You should first ask if they are able to take a look at your draft after briefly explaining who you are and summarising your project. Any feedback can be extremely useful as their expertise and experience could help them notice any holes in your proposal that you should consider and fix before applying.

Receiving feedback from an inhouse academic will also help you tailor your proposal specifically to the expertise of your prospective institution and supervisor expertise.

Step 4: check entry requirements

The next major step is to check the entry requirements of the institution or project. Most PhD applicants should have a Masters degree in a relevant field as well as a history of strong academic achievement.

PhD without a Masters

Some funded studentships will allow Bachelors graduates to apply. There is also the possibility to apply for an integrated programme that will include a year of Masters level training before beginning PhD research.

International applicants

If you are applying as an international student, make sure to check what visas may be required and how to obtain them. To study in the UK, international applicants will need a Student Route visa. To apply for this, you will need:

• a confirmation of acceptance into a university
• proof of sufficient funds
• proof that you meet the English language requirements

Make sure to check beforehand the eligibility criteria of the visa you need to apply for in case you need to undertake a language exam or entry test .

Step 5: check fees and potential funding options

Once you have decided which PhD opportunities you want to apply for, and know that you’re eligible, it’s time to look more deeply at the financial practicalities. PhD study is not cheap and often has many unforeseen costs such as books, equipment, travel and conferencing fees. Knowing your potential funding options can help you plan ahead.

Funding options

Practically all PhD applicants hope to be fully-funded. If you are applying for an advertised project then you will typically receive full funding if successful. This funding most commonly comes from Research Councils who outline their own restrictions on how the money can be used and deadlines for thesis submission. It’s a good idea to read the funder’s terms and conditions and make sure you understand what would be required of you as a researcher.

Those designing their own PhD are likely to apply for Research Council funding. Unfortunately, there is only a set amount of money available from Research Councils for self-proposed projects and so some PhDs are unsuccessful in their application. However, this does not mean you can’t go on and complete a successful PhD.

As receiving fully-funded studentships can be very competitive, it’s important to know other potential sources of funding. These can include:

• Universities – Many institutions offer their own funding , ranging from small fee discounts to full studentships. Make sure to research any financial support your chosen universities may offer and what you and your project could be applicable for.
• Charities, trusts and societies – some independent organisations offer to partially (and sometimes fully) fund PhD students if their research correlates with the groups’ interests. Support is available for a large variety of subjects so make sure to do some research.
• PhD loans – The UK government offers doctoral loans to English and Welsh PhD students who were unable to secure a full studentship. This will not usually cover the full cost of a PhD. Students wishing to self-fund with the help of a PhD loan will potentially have to take up part-time work such as teaching within the university.

PhD funding

Find out more about PhD funding options and how it works on FindAPhD.com.

Step 6: prepare to apply

Now that you have thought about the practicalities of PhD study you can start to gather the required documents to apply.

The most important thing to note down when starting to prepare is the PhD application deadlines. Many universities will have different deadlines and if you are applying for funding, applications may need to be submitted even earlier.

It’s a good idea to aim to submit your application with plenty of time to spare, taking into account any difficulties that might arise gathering together the relevant paper work.

The documents you need for your application will depend on the university and funding you are applying for. Some things you may be asked to provide are:

• Personal statement / cover letter
• Research proposal
• Details of at least two referees (make sure to contact them beforehand so they know what you are applying for and why)
• Academic transcript

International students may also need to provide:

• Proof of language proficiency
• Proof of funds
• Student visa

Step 7: submit your application

Once you have written, polished and gathered all the documents you need, it’s time to apply. Most PhD applications are done through the university’s application portal. Many also allow you to start your application and come back to it at a later date, so don’t feel like you have to submit everything all in one go.

If you are applying for funding separately make sure to read the details of how to apply on the funder’s website. Typically, Research Council funding is applied for with the same application you submit to the university. Other sources of funding may have a different application system.

Still looking for the perfect PhD course?

Head over to our PhD course listings to keep up to date with the latest opportunities.

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

Hannah slack.

Hannah worked at FindAPhD as a Content Writer from 2020 to 2023. She started with us part-time whilst studying for her PhD, giving her personal experience with balancing work responsibilities with academia. Hannah has a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of East Anglia, and both a Masters in Early Modern History and a PhD on Early Modern English seafarers from the University of Sheffield.

You may also like...

We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.

Getting ready to apply for a PhD? Our guides explain research proposals, references and entry tests for doctoral programmes.

Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.

Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.

A checklist of the things you'll need to do when making an international PhD application, from meeting the entry requirements to sorting out your visa.

What documents you need for a complete study abroad application, what they are and what they should and should not include.

FindAPhD. Copyright 2005-2024 All rights reserved.

Unknown    ( change )

Have you got time to answer some quick questions about PhD study?

Select your nearest city

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAPhD, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

• Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
• The latest PhD projects delivered straight to your inbox
• Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
• Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, research proposal tips and much more
• Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

or begin browsing FindAPhD.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Create your account

Looking to list your PhD opportunities? Log in here .

• Skip to main content
• Prospective Students
• Current Students
• Apply Apply
•   Follow Us

How Do You Get a PhD? A Guide to the PhD Timeline

Everyone who considers a doctoral degree knows a PhD is a big commitment. 

Not only will it require all your mental energy, focus, and persistence, but it will also require a significant investment of your time. Your particular area of research, your institution’s policies and procedures, and the standard expectations within your field affect how long it takes to earn a PhD. The average PhD length is five or six years, while some students may take eight or nine years.

Regardless of how long a PhD program takes,  there are some common stages of a PhD that all doctoral students share. These significant and essential milestones shape the timeline for earning your doctorate . Read on as we take you through each step and explore the typical steps to a doctorate degree.

How Long Do PhD Programs Take?

The number of credit hours that you need to complete your doctoral coursework might depend on several factors: do you already have a master’s degree? Will you earn one en route to the doctorate? Or do you even need one? 

Different disciplines and research interests have their own PhD process, but even within your field of study, institutions may have diverse pathways for obtaining that terminal degree. For most, coursework will take anywhere from two to three years to complete.

During this time, students can serve as graduate research or teaching assistants or could even lead their own courses as instructors. In many degree programs, students develop their potential dissertation topics through their coursework and define their research plans in the next few years.

Steps to Getting a PhD: PhD Qualifying Exam and Comprehensive Exam

Many programs set up academic checkpoints to help keep students on track during their PhD journeys. The timing varies by program, but one of the most common – and possibly most stressful – forms of benchmarking is the PhD comprehensive exam or qualifying exam. Often administered around the end of the student’s coursework, these exams are your chance to demonstrate what you learned in your classes.

A faculty committee from your department oversees testing. Usually comprised of at least three members, your professors ask questions or assign writing prompts based on your experience in the program thus far. The format is generally a combination of written and oral exams designed to test your expertise in your discipline’s methodologies and significant content areas.

To better prepare yourself, research the number and kind of qualifying benchmarks the program will require in the university catalog before you begin your program. This will allow you and your advisor to effectively plan out the first few years of your degree and give you an idea of how you’ll be evaluated throughout your program.

Doctoral Dissertation Prospectus and Defense

You may be required to complete and defend a dissertation prospectus before officially becoming a PhD candidate. A prospectus is a document outlining your dissertation plan, which includes an explanation of your research topic, a potential outline of your dissertation, the methodologies you intend to employ, the significance of your research question, and a bibliography including sources that form the foundation of your research.

Your prospectus allows your dissertation advisor to understand the scope of your project. It should be thorough enough that they can provide useful feedback to help shape your research plan. After some revisions, an approved prospectus is the green light to move into the next stage of your PhD.

Advancement to Doctoral Candidacy

If you have heard the term ABD – “All But Dissertation” – then that means you are in the home stretch of your doctoral program!

Well, sort of…only your dissertation remains!

Doctoral Dissertation Research and Writing

While you’ve made it through the coursework and qualifying exams, the dissertation is the culminating component of the doctoral degree. At this point, your approved research plan is ready to be set into motion. Depending on your discipline, this could be the stage where you travel extensively to conduct fieldwork, explore archives, or visit labs to collaborate on projects that relate to your dissertation work. For many students, the research phase can take a couple of years, but some may be able to complete it in one.

Writing your dissertation can be one of the most challenging parts of the whole PhD process. Not only are you condensing years of research into a single cohesive document, but you are also formulating graphs, charts, and other textual references to help clarify your argument. Often, formatting can be a major challenge for many students. 

In this stage, it’s most helpful to seek out resources to help you with the writing process. Many universities have dissertation writing workshops where you can learn best practices, as well as support groups where students meet regularly and help keep each other accountable. Most universities also offer competitive dissertation completion grants, supporting students with additional funding so they focus more of their time and effort on completing this undertaking.

Dissertation Defense

Everyone gets nervous about this major rite of passage. It can be difficult to take criticism over something you have poured your heart and soul into for years. Remember, though, that a good advisor will not let you defend if you’re not ready, and you literally wrote the book on your topic!

The dissertation defense is not intended to tear your work apart but rather is your opportunity to prove your expertise to your dissertation committee. Many defenses are open to observers, so you should attend a few in advance of your own, especially within your department, to get a sense of what it’s like. 

First, you’ll present the main points of your thesis. Then the committee will ask questions so they can clearly understand your arguments. Finally, they’ll send you out of the room while they deliberate and decide if you pass or not. If all goes well, you’ll be addressed as “Doctor” the next time you walk into the room!

Get Started on Your PhD Journey Today

No matter what your particular timeline looks like as you work toward your doctorate, know that the faculty and other students within your program are frequently a huge source of support — which means you won't do this alone! Additionally, every school has resources to assist PhD students, from libraries to writing centers to dedicated student support services. 

If you are excited about beginning your PhD journey, we invite you to request more information or reach out to one of our admissions professionals today. Best of luck as you begin this transformational experience!

learn more about

what it takes to apply to and succeed in a PhD program. Explore our resource — A Guide to Choosing, Applying for, and Thriving in a PhD Program!

hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(3974384, 'aeb4e03d-f8e9-4232-9726-8852204e83e1', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"});

Request more, information.

Complete the form to reach out to us for more information

Published On

More articles, recommended articles for you, how to choose a phd program and compare offers.

You’ve been patiently waiting for your decision letters to roll in. Now you have the results, and...

Is Getting a PhD Worth It?

Perhaps you’re finishing up a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or maybe you’ve hit a wall in your...

The 6 Best Types of PhD Programs for English Majors

If you’re reading this, you’re probably exploring your options for advancing your undergraduate...

Browse articles by topic

Subscribe to.

PhD Admission Guide

Gain admission to your dream school, guide to phd admission.

While some students swear off further education after undergrad, some love the thrill of intellectual discovery and research. For these students, graduate school is a natural choice. Graduate degrees are separated into “professional” and “academic” categories. Professional degrees are JDs and MDs, while academic degrees are PhDs (literally “Doctorates of Philosophy” regardless of what field you actually study).

Whether or not you need to pursue a PhD depends entirely on what career you wish to have. Some require higher education, while many others do not. In this guide we’ll go over how to apply to PhD programs, what they are looking for, and how the application process works. This guide is focused on the US and Canada; Europe has a system which is simultaneously similar and very different.

What PhD Programs Look For

PhD programs want to make sure you are prepared academically for the rigors of the program, and that you have a concrete research goal in mind. PhD programs culminate with each student answering a research question they devise, contributing new knowledge to the world in the process. 

Thus these programs seek to evaluate your intellectual ability, research goals, previous research experience, and how you will contribute to their program. To determine this, they ask for the following:

Letters of Recommendation

We’ll go through each of these in turn, and explain what graduate programs are looking for from each.

Your GPA in undergrad is the single most important factor in PhD admissions. If your GPA is too low your application will be dismissed out of hand. While there are no hard limits, we suggest a minimum GPA of 3.5 for serious contention, especially at top schools. If your GPA is below 3.0 then you will likely not get admitted into any PhD programs.

The reason for this is that PhD programs are a lot of work. Being intelligent is necessary, but is far from sufficient alone. Everyone in PhD programs is intelligent, and everyone is also willing to do the work. Your GPA is seen as the primary indicator of your willingness and ability to do academic work to a high standard, and your preparation for the rigors of a PhD program.

Along with your overall GPA, schools request your major GPA. This is your GPA when calculated only using courses in your major. This is usually expected to be higher than your overall GPA. Your major GPA should be over 3.5.

While taking harder courses in undergrad is a great experience, they can also harm your overall GPA. Of course, the best approach is to take very hard classes and do well in them, but this is not always possible. We recommend taking a blend of courses, so you are never overloaded, and able to give each the attention it needs to do well.

Academic Preparation

Your GPA and transcript is also used to judge your academic preparation for the program. You should have a solid grounding in the field, and have taken advanced courses as well. Taking graduate level courses in undergrad can exemplify this. 

Some PhD programs also require research languages. This is more common in the social sciences and humanities, but all students will benefit from knowing other languages well enough to do research in them. You should look up language requirements when researching programs to apply to.

The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test meant for students who intend to apply to graduate programs. Both MA and PhD programs ask for GRE scores. Much like the SAT or ACT in college exams, the test is meant to be a standardized measure of academic preparation and logical skill.

The test consists of six sections. The first is writing, next are two on verbal reasoning, then two on quantitative reasoning, and finally a research or experimental section, meant to test new questions. The entire test is offered on the computer, with one minute breaks after each section, and a ten minute break after the third section. While there is also a paper-based test, almost all testing is now done on a computer. Due to the pandemic, both testing centers and at-home testing are offered. The GRE is a multi-stage test, and how well you do on earlier sections determines the difficulty of later sections and questions. 

The verbal sections each consist of 20 questions, to be answered over 30 minutes. The whole is scored on a scale of 130-170. The quantitative section is scored the same, and consists of two 20 question sections, each of which should be completed in 35 minutes. The writing section is scored from 0-6. For this section, you write an essay on a given issue in 30 minutes, and offer a response critiquing a provided argument for 30 minutes.

Your total score from the GRE is given from 130-170. While the exact scores you need to enter graduate school vary, higher is better. In addition, some programs only care about your verbal score, while others only care about your quantitative score. How much weight each program puts on GRE scores varies greatly.

We recommend studying for the GRE for some time before testing. You can take the GRE up to five times per year, but must wait at least 21 days between testing dates. Only scores from the past 5 years will be released or considered by graduate programs.

Curriculum Vitae

This is akin to a resume, but is dissimilar enough that the two cannot be used interchangeably. The purpose of a CV is, like a resume, to detail what you have accomplished academically and in your career. It is far more focused on academics however, and is widely used for academic careers.

We recommend finding a template for a CV online, or asking your college’s advisors for help in creating one. If you already have a resume, then you will easily be able to convert it into a CV.

What admissions officers are looking for in your activities is primarily signs of research. This should be in whatever field you intend to pursue a PhD in. Publications are also incredibly valuable. All of academia runs on publication, and getting an early start helps your career at every step.

You should try to do research while still in undergrad. What this looks like depends entirely on what field you are pursuing. While the research does not have to exactly line up with what you wish to pursue, it should teach you skills which are cross applicable. Higher level academic research has its own set of methods and language which must be learned, and students who are already familiar with the forms and structures of research have a leg up in graduate school. 

Publication is not required, but is nice to see. If you have completed a master’s degree, you should have some publication history; of your thesis if nothing else. Speak with your academic advisors about getting your work published.

Each graduate school you apply to will ask for an essay. You will be able to use the same basic form for each, but will need to edit it to be about the particular program you are applying to. Most schools only require a single essay, although some programs ask for a second on diversity.

The purpose of this essay is to explain your research interests, what you have studied, your intended area of specialization, and what your focus will be on. Every PhD student is asking and trying to answer a very specific research question. This question forms the basis of their dissertation, and will be the focus of your life for several years if you are accepted.

Thus the essay is the most important part of your application. Your grades and GRE are required to see if you are academically ready for graduate school, but the essay lets readers know if you are a match for their program, and serious about your research.

Your essay should begin by stating which program you are applying to, and why. Next, go through your previous academic experience in the field, both coursework and research. You don’t have to go through every class, but cover the ones most relevant to your desired research topic.

You should discuss any prior research you have done in the field. If you completed a thesis for your undergraduate degree or a master’s program, cover that here. If you have any publication credits, cover those as well. This should relate directly to the field you are trying to enter. If you wish to pursue lab work, discuss your previous experiences; if instead you are pursuing field work, talk about your experiences there.

Next you should talk about the research you specifically wish to pursue through a PhD. You don’t need to have an exact research question worked out, but it is helpful to have some idea; you should at least know the subfield you will be focusing on. The more specific you are, the better. Having some discussion of methodology can be nice, but is not always necessary.

If there are any ongoing research projects ongoing at the school you wish to work on, cover those next. You should discuss how these projects specifically relate to your own research interests. Finally, you should talk about which professors you wish to work with. Professors take on graduate students to advise, and you ideally want one with a specialization at least tangentially related to your field of interest. The more closely related the professor’s studies are to your own, the better.

You will be able to leave much of this essay the same for each school you apply to, changing only the name of the program, the research projects, and the professors you wish to work with. 

This essay should be a page and a half to two pages long, single spaced. You should go into sufficient detail for those reading it to understand the research you want to pursue. These essays are reviewed by the faculty who run the department, and they make the admissions decisions for PhD programs. There are many more applicants than there are spaces, and admissions rates are low. The more specific and detailed you are in this essay, the better the faculty will understand your research aims, and the better your chances will be.

Diversity Statements

Not all programs ask for these, but you will likely be able to reuse the same essay for those that do. The purpose of the diversity statement is to see what unique points of view and experiences you will be able to contribute to the program. PhDs are about learning, and the more viewpoints and ideas within a program, the broader the experience will be.

If you are a member of an underrepresented group, an immigrant, come from an underprivileged background, or come from an area which is generally underrepresented, we suggest discussing that in this essay. You should not write an essay about your interactions with members of these groups, or a study abroad experience.

Above all, this essay should be authentic to you and your experience. The goal is to show how your background has shaped you as a person, and how it impacts your view of the world.

As with college applications, letters of recommendation are required for PhD admissions. These tell admissions committees who you are as a student and researcher, and give their opinion on how you will perform when doing graduate level work. Academic fields are small and often insular, and the professors writing your letters will often be known by those reading them, either by reputation or in person.

Programs ask for two to four letters. These should primarily come from professors who know you and your work well. If you had a thesis advisor, they should write one of your letters. If you’ve worked doing research for some time, then a mentor or lab director can also be a good source of a letter, even if they haven’t taught you in class. Letters should not come from non-academic sources, unless you have worked professionally in that field. 

While you have the option to read the letters that are written for you, you should always waive that right. If you don’t trust your writers to craft good letters for you, then you shouldn’t be asking them for letters. Asking to see letters is considered a sign of lack of trust, and is gauche. Many professors will decline to write letters if you insist on seeing them.

You should ask for letters well in advance of when they are due; we recommend at least a month or two. If you are asking non-tenured faculty for a letter, more leeway is recommended, as they have more on their plate, and are often more stressed. You may need to send a reminder as deadlines approach. You should also share a copy of your essay with letter writers, so they know exactly what subfield you intend to pursue, and can discuss this in their letters.

Finally, you should be aware of politics when asking for letters. Some professors do not like each other at all. If you are seen as the protege of a professor who others detest, this can impact your admissions chances. Always discuss which schools and programs you are applying to with your letter writers. You should also discuss your choices of writers with an advisor (for example a thesis advisor) familiar with the field. Academic politics are incredibly petty, but if you plan to pursue a PhD you need to be aware of the game, and how it is played.

If your application passes the first review, you will be invited to do an interview. This will be with faculty in the program you are applying to. This is to further get to know you, and to understand your research objectives. 

You should be able to clearly explain what you want to research, and how this program will help you do so. The people talking to you will all be familiar with the field, though not necessarily your specific subfield. They are looking for your ability to communicate and explain your view. Be prepared to answer some questions about the specifics of your goals, though it’s ok if you don’t know everything right now.

Interviews are generally in person, though due to the pandemic, virtual interviews have become more common. This is also your chance to ask any questions you have about the program you were unable to find answers to online. You can practice for this interview with an advisor or mentor; many schools have career centers which hold mock grad school interviews as well.

When and How to Apply to Grad School

There is no unified platform for PhD applications. Instead you must apply to each program individually, through the school’s website. This will mean filling out information multiple times, but they fortunately don’t ask for much. Once you have your documents in order, the rest is personal, demographic, and contact information.

You will need to pay to have your GRE scores sent to each school you apply to. Even though this is all electronic, they still charge dearly for it. 

Applications are generally due in December or January, with interviews held over the next few months. Applications open in September or October. We recommend getting your applications in before the due date, though most programs don’t use rolling admissions. Each program sets their own deadlines, so you should track when each of your applications is due carefully to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

Paying for Grad School

PhD programs are for the most part fully funded. This means you will not be paying tuition, and will also get funding to live on. This funding is generally contingent on academic standing, and doing work TAing, teaching, or on ongoing research projects (or most commonly, all of the above). Many grad students also work full or part time to support themselves. 

While you will not need to take on additional debt to pay for graduate school, you will not be well paid either. While the exact amount graduate students receive varies by school and program, it is generally in the range of $20-30,000 annually. This goes towards food, housing, and supplies.

While you are in a PhD program, you will not have to make payments on any government loans you took out to pay for undergrad, though they will continue to accrue interest. Making payments on them during grad school is difficult, but will greatly cut down on the amount you need to pay back later.

There are also outside scholarships available to help pay for graduate studies. While the amounts offered by these vary, most are small. They can help greatly with paying for the necessities however, and applying to them is usually worth the time investment.

Grad School Admission FAQ

Now we’ll answer some of the most common questions about applying to PhD programs.

Can older students apply?

Yes. Many professionals return to school for a PhD long out of undergrad. We suggest taking some courses at a local university in the field you plan on entering before you do this however. Academic research advances quickly, and this will familiarize you with the latest developments. Further, this will introduce you to professors who can provide you with letters of recommendation.

What are my odds of acceptance?

This depends on both your field and program. Generally, however, it is quite difficult to gain admissions to a PhD program, and admission rates hover around 10%. Only the best students get accepted, and this is even more the case at the top schools and programs.

When should I start thinking about applications?

When you choose your major, you should decide what level you want to reach within that field. Some majors lend themselves to PhDs if you want to work in that field, while others allow employment at various levels.

Where should I apply?

You should find programs with professors who are dedicated to your particular subfield. A prestigious institution which does not focus on your area is far less useful, regardless of how famous its name is. You are looking for someone who will be able to advise you, and help you perform worthwhile research. Further, professors are looking for students studying fields similar to their own when they admit graduate students.

How long are PhD programs?

Generally programs last 4-5 years, though this can vary based on field. The exact structure of the programs also varies a lot based on field and program.

Ivy Scholars is the leading educational consultant in Sugar Land, Texas, providing admissions coaching, test prep, and more to help students enroll at top tier schools.

Get In Touch

Call us now: +1 (281) 215-5148

Houston: 4265 San Felipe St, Suite 1100, Houston, TX 77027

Get Started

Subscribe for updates, © all rights reserved.

LET US HELP

Welcome to Capella

Select your program and we'll help guide you through important information as you prepare for the application process.

FIND YOUR PROGRAM

Connect with us

A team of dedicated enrollment counselors is standing by, ready to answer your questions and help you get started.

• Capella University Blog
• PhD/Doctorate

What are the steps in getting a PhD?

August 22, 2023

Reading Time: 2–3 minutes

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

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

Here’s a closer look at each step.

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about doctoral virtual residency .

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

Comprehensive assessment

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

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

Learn more about the comprehensive exam .

Dissertation

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

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

Learn more about the dissertation .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Capella’s online doctoral programs

You may also like

Can I transfer credits into a doctoral program?

January 8, 2020

What are the steps in writing a dissertation?

December 11, 2019

The difference between a dissertation and doctoral capstone

November 25, 2019

Start learning today

Get started on your journey now by connecting with an enrollment counselor. See how Capella may be a good fit for you, and start the application process.

Please Exit Private Browsing Mode

Your internet browser is in private browsing mode. Please turn off private browsing mode if you wish to use this site.

Are you sure you want to cancel?

• Youth Program
• Wharton Online

How the PhD Program Works

Program Overview

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

Admission to candidacy.

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

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

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

The Doctoral Dissertation

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

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

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

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

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

Policies and Procedures

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

Sample Program Sequence

Years 1 & 2.

Coursework Examination Research Papers Research Activities Field-Specific Requirements

Directed Reading & Research Admission to Candidacy Formulation of Research Topic

Years 4 & 5

Continued Research Oral Examination Dissertation

Hear From Our Doctoral Community

From phd student to colleague, wharton is the "perfect" place to do research, from undergrad to phd.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Academic Degrees
• Doctoral Studies

How to Apply for a PhD in the US

Last Updated: January 18, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Carrie Adkins, PhD . Carrie Adkins is the cofounder of NursingClio, an open access, peer-reviewed, collaborative blog that connects historical scholarship to current issues in gender and medicine. She completed her PhD in American History at the University of Oregon in 2013. While completing her PhD, she earned numerous competitive research grants, teaching fellowships, and writing awards. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 20 testimonials and 96% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 631,248 times.

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

Ask the wikiHow College Coach

Researching Schools and Programs

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

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

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

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

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

Carrie Adkins, PhD

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

Meeting the Basic Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Writing Your Statement of Purpose

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

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

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

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

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

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

Submitting Your Application Packets

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

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

What Are The Main Reasons People Go To Graduate School?

Expert Q&A

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

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

ReIated wikiHows

• How to Get a Doctorate in Economics
• How to Ask for a Recommendation Letter
• How to Plan for Graduate School
• How to Write a Statement of Purpose
• How to Apply to College
• How to Become an Academic Philosopher
• How to Ask Your Professor for a Letter of Recommendation Via Email
• How to Take Lecture Notes
• How to Do Postgraduate Medical Education in Us

You Might Also Like

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

About This Article

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

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Jul 15, 2017

Did this article help you?

Shrawan Balach

Jul 20, 2017

Malshani Gamage

Aug 31, 2016

Sakshi Jain

Jun 20, 2017

Chitra Pawar

Mar 8, 2016

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

• OU Homepage
• The University of Oklahoma

Steps to Degree

TAKING THE FIRST STEP

Different program formats are appropriate for different students. In making the decision between programs and formats, the first thing students should think about are their long-term goals, their learning styles, and their commitments outside of class. When you know your goals, you're free to evaluate programs and program formats based on how well suited they are to help you reach those goals. Graduate school is intellectually challenging and can last from two to 10 years. Choosing a program in which you like the people and environment, whether that is in-person, hybrid, or online, will ultimately help you be successful.

Please select the section you are interested in

Enrollment Information

Contact your academic unit or advisor for enrollment. Students may browse class schedules by logging into  one.ou.edu  using your OUNet ID and password. Once a term has started, students who have not yet registered should report to their academic unit for advisement. If you are unsure which academic unit you are in, please contact the Graduate College .

Some academic units require students to be advised prior to enrollment and advising requirements vary by program. You may contact your academic unit with enrollment or advising questions.  Information on adding or dropping a class may be found at the Office of the Registrar or with your academic unit. A full list of deadlines to enroll and add or drop classes may be found in the academic calendar .

If you would like to enroll in more hours than what is regarded as "full-time enrollment" you must contact the Graduate College to receive permission to do so.

More information regarding enrollment may be found in the Graduate College Bulletin.

*International graduate students must be enrolled full-time. If fewer credit hours are desired for a semester, international students must complete the Reduced Course load Request with International Student Services (ISS).

**Graduate Assistants must be enrolled in classes by August 5 for the Fall semester and January 5 in the Spring semester to be eligible for the Student FICA (Social Security) Exemption on August and January paychecks. More information is available on the  Graduate Assistantship  page.

Instruction Packets

These Instruction Packets are currently available as a PDF documents. If you have any questions, please contact your  Graduate College graduate degree management specialist or call us at (405) 325-3811.

THESIS/DISSERTATION PACKET

For students who will be writing a thesis or dissertation in order to complete their graduate studies.

Download the Packet (PDF)

NON-THESIS INSRUCTION PACKET

For students who do not need a thesis or dissertation in order to complete their graduate studies.

Review the thesis/dissertation packet for complete information and sample pages.

• Standard, professional 12-point font must be used throughout (headings may be larger).
• Page margins must be consistent throughout the document (minimum 1” and maximum 1.5”).
• The first three (3) pages of the document must appear in the following order: Title Page, Committee Page, and Copyright Page. Do not include page numbers on these pages.
• The text of the Title Page, Committee Page, and Copyright Page must include all text on the sample pages of the instruction packet (format may vary).
• The Title Page must include the exact name of the degree.
• The Committee Page must include the exact name of the academic unit.
• The Committee Page must include the names of each committee member (no signatures; format may vary).
• The document title on the Title Page and Committee Page must match the title on the Approval for Thesis/Dissertation Submission to SHAREOK form.
• Front matter must include at minimum a Table of Contents and Abstract. Roman numeral page numbers begin with “iv” on the page directly following the Copyright Page.
• Arabic numeral page numbers beginning with “1” on the first page of the thesis/dissertation text (e.g., Chapter 1 or Introduction) and continue through the remainder of the document.
• Page numbers must be in a consistent position throughout the document on every page following the Copyright Page.
• All tables, figures, illustrations, and other visual content must be within the margins.
• The document should not contain any blank pages.
• Bibliography or References section(s) must be included.
• SHAREOK submission must include a complete .pdf version of the entire thesis/dissertation document with the file name Year_StudentLastName_StudentFirstName_Thesis or Year_StudentLastName_StudentFirstName_Dissertation.pdf
• SHAREOK submission must include a version in the native file format used to create the document (.docx, .zip, or .tar for LaTeX, etc.) with a file name that matches the .pdf document.

The following collections of links may help you in formatting your document.

Note: These pages are outside the OU website and are neither affiliated with nor endorsed by the University of Oklahoma.

Microsoft Word (Windows)

Document Setup and Page Layout

• Setting margins
• Editing the header or footer
• Inserting page numbers
• Starting pagination later in the document
• Inserting a page break (starting a new page)
• Changing page orientation to landscape
• Changing heading and paragraph styles
• Footnotes and endnotes

Tables and Images

• Inserting a table
• Formatting a table
• Inserting an image
• Rotating an image
• Wrapping text around an image
• Adding a caption to a table or figure

Listing Contents

• Creating a table of contents
• Creating a list of tables/figures
• Creating a bibliography

Other Resources

• Saving as PDF
• Track Changes in Word
• Inserting and deleting comments

Microsoft Word (Mac)

• Setting margins and page orientation
• Page numbers and pagination
• Creating paragraphs and sections
• Creating footnotes
• Text formatting
• Inserting and formatting a table
• Inserting, positioning, and captioning an image
• Creating a table of contents and list of tables/figures

MASTER'S PROGRAMS

A master’s degree hones your critical thinking. Completion of a master’s degree demonstrates an enhanced level of expertise in a specific field or study or practice. To find the completion options available for your program, see the  Master's Program of Study table .

Steps to Degree & Deadlines

All graduate students should familiarize themselves with the Graduate College deadlines below, the deadlines within their academic unit, and the  University Academic Calendar . Any calendar is subject to change when it is determined to be in the best interest of the university to do so.

Visit the Graduate College Bulletin for more detailed information. 

ACCELERATED MASTER'S

An accelerated degree program (ADP) enables qualified undergraduate students to earn a master’s degree in an accelerated time frame by sharing up to 15% of the total coursework required for the stand-alone bachelor’s and master’s degrees. More details may be found in the Graduate College Bulletin .

The undergraduate degree is conferred before the student’s admission to the graduate portion of the ADP. If you are not sure which model your program follows, check the Accelerated Degree Graduate Coursework Plan form for your major.

Applying to the Undergraduate Portion of the Accelerated Degree Program (ADP)

• Contact your academic unit and/or undergraduate college before or during your junior year.
• You will need to follow the application procedures and deadlines established by the academic unit and undergraduate college in order to be admitted to the accelerated degree program (ADP) and changed to the undergraduate accelerated major code.

After Admission to the Undergraduate Portion of the ADP

• You must meet all requirements and deadlines for the master’s degree outlined in the Graduate College Bulletin .
• All shared courses must carry graduate credit and be applicable to both the bachelor’s degree requirements and master’s degree requirements.
• Coursework completed prior to admission to the undergraduate portion of the ADP cannot be considered for shared coursework credit.

Applying to the Graduate Portion of the ADP

• The term of admission must be the semester after completion of the bachelor’s degree. You may not skip a fall or spring semester between the degrees.
• If you do not complete the bachelor’s degree as intended, your admission to the graduate portion of the ADP will not be valid, you will remain in the undergraduate portion, and you will need to reapply to the graduate portion.

Planning Your Program of Study

• See the Non-Thesis Master's Degree, Thesis Master's Degree, or Coursework-Only Master's Degree menu above for your remaining steps toward graduation.

Congratulations!

The undergraduate and graduate degrees are conferred in the same semester. If you are not sure which model your program follows, check the Accelerated Degree Graduate Coursework Plan form for your major.

• You will need to follow the application procedures and deadlines established by the academic unit and undergraduate college in order to be admitted to the Accelerated Degree Program (ADP) and changed to the undergraduate accelerated major code.
•  Coursework completed prior to admission to the undergraduate portion of the ADP cannot be considered for shared coursework credit.
• The term of admission must be the same as the final semester of the bachelor’s degree. Students enrolled in a simultaneous accelerated program are not admitted to the graduate portion of the ADP until the term of their intended graduation from both degrees.
• See the Non-Thesis Master's Degree, Thesis Master's Degree, or Coursework-Only Master's Degree menu on this page for your remaining steps toward graduation.

Check the Deadlines and Progress to Degree sections for a timeline of when specific forms are due. Contact your Graduate College graduate degree management specialist if you have any questions.

An accelerated degree program (ADP) enables qualified undergraduate students to earn a master’s degree in an accelerated time frame.

When a student is admitted to an ADP, the Accelerated Degree Graduate Coursework Plan (ADGCP) should be turned in to the Graduate College. This normally takes place in the junior year or early in the senior year.

Accelerated Degree Program Guidelines and Operating Procedures (pdf)

Back to Top

DOCTORAL PROGRAMS

The doctoral degree is awarded for excellence in research scholarship because it signifies the attainment of independently acquired and comprehensive learning attesting to general professional competence. A student should normally expect to spend at least the equivalent of three full academic years beyond the bachelor’s degree to obtain the doctoral degree. During this period the student will take appropriate graduate coursework, successfully complete the general examination, and successfully defend and submit a final dissertation. More information may be found in the Graduate College Bulletin .

GRADUATE CERTIFICATES

A graduate certificate represents completion of a set of courses that provides mastery of a specific area of knowledge. A graduate certificate indicates an advanced, focused inquiry into a defined area of study and is recorded on the student’s transcript. For a degree student, a graduate certificate may indicate an area of specialization; for a professional, a graduate certificate may provide evidence of special expertise. More information may be found in the Graduate College Bulletin .

ADMISSION TO THE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

• You may either be admitted solely into a graduate certificate program, or you may apply to add a graduate certificate while enrolled in a graduate degree program. Students enrolled in a graduate degree program must apply to add the graduate certificate program by submitting the online Addition or Change of Program application.
• If you are not currently enrolled in a graduate degree program, you will only apply for admission to the graduate certificate program.

COMPLETING COURSEWORK FOR THE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE

• All courses must be taken at OU. No transfer credit is permitted.
• No course substitutions are permitted.
• Coursework applied to the certificate cannot be more than five years old at the time the certificate is awarded.
• You must earn a GPA of 3.00 or higher on all coursework applied to the certificate.
• For information on applying graduate certificate coursework to a graduate degree, please see the Graduate College Bulletin .

PREPARING TO GRADUATE

• The GCPR is due no later than the first Monday in October for fall certificate clearance, the first Monday in March for spring certificate clearance, and the first Monday in July for summer certificate clearance.
• Graduate certificates are not awarded retroactively.
• If there are any changes to the coursework listed on your approved GCPR, contact your academic unit promptly. Changes must be endorsed by your graduate liaison and submitted in writing to the Graduate College. Your graduate certificate cannot be issued if the Graduate College is not notified of changes to your GCPR.
• Students who receive only a graduate certificate without completing a degree program do not participate in convocation, commencement, or any other graduation ceremonies.

All graduate students should familiarize themselves with the Graduate College deadlines below, the deadlines within their academic unit, and the  University Academic Calendar .

Any calendar is subject to change when it is determined to be in the best interest of the university to do so.

Graduate Certificate Program Report Form

Students admitted to a graduate certificate program must turn in the  Graduate Certificate Program Report  form to the Graduate College no later than the final semester of certificate coursework.

Graduate Certificate Program Report Forms

INTERDISCIPLINARY PH.D PROGRAM

This program is designed to provide the opportunity for synergistic research beyond established doctoral programs and among the different disciplines currently represented at the University of Oklahoma. It is for admitted doctoral students with strong academic records who have demonstrated the ability to work independently and at a high scholarly level.

Prior to preparing an application, students will discuss the proposed research areas with relevant faculty members who hold the appropriate graduate faculty status. The student will prepare the application in close consultation with the prospective committee members.

IPP Packet (PDF)

Admission Requirements

Cumulative GPA of 3.5 in graduate-level coursework at OU.

Currently admitted to an existing OU Norman or Tulsa doctoral program , which will be referred to as the home unit .

HOW TO APPLY FOR IPP

• Students who hold a master’s degree will be eligible to apply for the IPP during the second semester and before the end of the third semester in the home unit.
• Students who do not hold a master’s degree will be eligible to apply during the fourth semester and no later than the end of the fifth semester.
• Deviations from the timeline above will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• After submission of the application, the student will meet with the IPP subcommittee of the Graduate Council, which is the body that evaluates the application. This meeting will allow the IPP subcommittee to learn more about the student's research plans and provide the student with feedback. The chair and/or co-chair of the student's proposed doctoral committee should attend the meeting. The subcommittee will have read the submitted materials, but the student is welcome to give a 5-10 minute presentation about their project if they wish.

• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• OU Job Search
• Legal Notices
• Resources and Offices
• OU Report It!

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• Applying to graduate school

How to Apply For Graduate School | A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying to graduate school may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!  The whole process can be broken down into 7 key steps:

• Choose which programs you want to apply for.
• Plan out the timeline for your application .
• Request transcripts and recommendation letters .
• Take any standardized tests that the program requires.
• Write your resume or CV .
• Write your statement of purpose and/or personal statement .
• Prepare for interviews , if relevant.

Specific graduate school application requirements may vary between type of program and school, so be sure to check carefully on each school’s website. However, the main steps are usually the same.

Table of contents

Choosing programs to apply to, planning your application timeline, requesting transcripts and recommendation letters, taking standardized tests, writing your resume, writing a statement of purpose, writing a personal statement, preparing for interviews, frequently asked questions about grad school applications.

Choosing a program is the first step of the process. Start by talking to alumni and current students of the programs you’re interested in, as well as individuals in the career field that you’re hoping to pursue afterwards. Ask them questions like the following:

• Do I need a graduate degree at all? It might be possible to pursue this field using the experience and education that you already have.
• How important is school prestige in this field? In fields like law, prestige is extremely important, whereas it matters very little in many medical careers, like nursing or physical therapy.
• Do the faculty and staff of this institution make adequate time for their students? Especially in research, the quality of supervision and teaching determines how much you get out of a program.
• Do I have a realistic shot of getting into this program? Aim high, but don’t waste application fees on schools out of reach, and make sure you have a few backup programs you’re pretty sure you can get into.
• How much will the program cost? Many graduate programs offer some sort of financial aid, but others expect most students to front the whole cost through loans and other forms of financing.
• What is the job market like for alumni of this program? Many programs list the career outcomes of their graduates on their websites. If one doesn’t, you should feel free to contact an administrator of the program and ask for it.

Master’s vs. PhD

One of the biggest choices you’ll have to make is whether to apply to a master’s or a PhD program . Master’s degrees, which take 1–2 years to complete, usually develop skills for a particular career, whereas PhDs, which can range from 4–7 years, are meant to prepare for an academic or research career.

Master’s programs focus mainly on coursework, although they usually also include a semester-long thesis or capstone. In the US, most PhDs include the coursework required for a master’s in the first two years of the program. Afterwards, you’ll spend most of your time preparing a dissertation, a long piece of original research.

Both master’s and PhD programs provide a wage premium (the extra amount that you’ll make over someone with just a high school diploma) of 23 and 26%, respectively. Master’s programs sometimes provide scholarships, but this is rare. PhD programs, on the other hand, often waive tuition fees and provide a living stipend in exchange for being a teaching or research assistant.

Though the master’s degree premium is lower and the upfront cost is usually higher, master’s programs allow you to enter the workforce—and earn the higher wage—much faster than PhDs.

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

• Academic style
• Vague sentences
• Style consistency

See an example

The most important tip for applying to graduate school is to start early! No matter which type of program you’re applying to, you should start considering your plans around 18 months before beginning your program.

Most programs have strict deadlines—usually 6–9 months before the start date. Others have what are called “rolling” deadlines, meaning that the earlier you send in an application, the earlier you get a decision. Either way, you should usually aim to get in all your applications before the new year for a start date the following September or October.

Make sure to carefully plan out your timeline for applying . Each step will take longer than you think it will, so leave plenty of extra time! Below is a table giving an idea of how much time you’ll need for the essential application tasks.

As well as transcripts of your grades, most graduate school applications also require you to provide 2–3 letters of recommendation from former professors or supervisors.

Transcripts

You’ll normally need to provide transcripts from every postsecondary institution that you attended, even if you weren’t a full-time student there. This includes time spent studying abroad or classes taken at universities while still a high school student.

Make sure to check the language requirements of the transcripts. If yours aren’t in English and you’re applying to a US or UK university, you’ll most likely have to get them translated by a professional translator. You can usually find services online where you upload your transcript and receive a translated and certified copy within a few days.

Recommendation letters

The letters of recommendation are one of the most important parts of an application. You should think carefully about who to ask and how to do it. These steps can aid you in finding the best letters possible for your application:

• Decide who to ask. This should ideally be a former professor that you knew well outside of the classroom, but can be a manager or research supervisor who can speak to your ability to succeed in graduate school.
• Request a meeting. It’s best to discuss the recommendation letter in person if possible. If you know your recommender well, you can skip this step and go straight to:
• Ask for a recommendation. It’s a good idea to ask if they can provide a “strong” letter of recommendation, which allows them an easy out if not!
• Share your resume and statement of purpose draft. These can help your recommender write a strong letter that fits with your application’s overall story.
• Remind your recommenders of upcoming deadlines . If it’s within a few weeks of the deadline and you haven’t heard back yet, send a polite reminder.

Most American graduate programs require that you take a standardized exam, while most non-American programs do not, although requirements have shifted greatly in recent years.

You will most likely be asked to submit a resume or CV . Make sure to pay attention to the length limits. If none are given, try to keep it to one page if possible or two pages if necessary.

You don’t need to include every activity you’ve participated in, but make sure to include those relevant to the type of program you’re applying for.

You could include things like:

• Publications
• Awards and honors
• Skills (such as computer programming or language skills)
• Professional experience
• Volunteering experience

If you’re applying to a professional program, such as business school, you should focus more on your professional accomplishments. For other programs, you’ll want to concentrate on your academic and research accomplishments.

You can download our resume templates as Word documents and adapt them for your own use.

Resume template 1 Resume Template 2

Your statement of purpose is a short essay that should tie together the rest of your application. Aim to give the admissions committee a clear idea of why you’ll be a good fit for the program and your motivations for applying.

Make sure to carefully read the instructions for your statement of purpose. Some programs provide prompts that you have to respond to in your essay. If you’re applying to multiple programs, tailor your statement to each one.

A strong statement of purpose should include:

• A introduction to your academic and personal background
• Your experience and accomplishments
• Your motivations for applying to this particular program
• Your academic goals for the program, including specific topics you’d like to explore
• Your career objectives for after the end of the program

The statement of purpose should not just be your resume in paragraph form. Add value by describing how you personally contributed to any projects or learned from classes that might be listed on your resume.

Finally, make sure your statement reads well and is free of language errors. Have a friend look it over, and don’t be afraid to use a professional proofreader if you’d like another set of eyes.

Some graduate school applications also require you to submit a personal statement .

A personal statement can usually be a bit less formal that a statement of purpose, giving more space to your personal background. It should craft a narrative of who you are and how your life has led you to apply to graduate school.

Here are some tips for writing a strong personal statement:

• Start with an attention-grabbing opening.
• Describe your personal and academic development over time.
• If you’ve faced obstacles in your academic path, describe how you’ve overcome them.
• Discuss why you’re interested in this field, connecting it to your past experiences.
• Look forward by describing your career ambitions and how this program will help you achieve them.

The graduate school interview is the last step of the process. Not all schools conduct interviews, but if yours does, make sure you’re prepared:

• Read the website of the program you’re applying for.
• Talk to previous students about their experience interviewing.
• Prepare answers to commonly asked questions.
• Read papers in the field of study that you’re interested in.

Many interviews ask the same questions, so you should have a clear idea of how you’ll answer these. The most common questions include:

• What would you bring to this program and why should we admit you?
• Tell us about the research you’ve completed or contributed to.
• What interests you about this program?
• Who would you like to work with in this program?
• What are you planning on doing after you complete this program?

You should also come with a few questions prepared for your interviewers. You may want to ask about funding opportunities, access to advisors, other access to resources, and job outcomes after graduation.

In the US, most graduate school applications require you to include:

• Transcripts from previous educational institutions
• Standardized test scores (such as the GRE or MCAT)
• A graduate resume
• 2–3 letters of recommendation
• A statement of purpose

Some programs may ask you to write a personal statement in addition to, or instead of, a statement of purpose. You may also be asked to an interview .

Always carefully read the application instructions for the specific program you’re applying to.

A good starting point to aim for is about 18 months before you would start the program, or 6–9 months before the applications are due.

In the first few months of the process, research programs and study for any standardized exams you might need.

You can then begin writing your personal statements and statements of purpose , as well as contacting people to write your letters of recommendation . Ensure that you give recommenders plenty of time to complete their letters (ideally around 2–4 months).

A statement of purpose is usually more formal, focusing on your academic or professional goals. It shouldn’t include anything that isn’t directly relevant to the application.

A personal statement can often be more creative. It might tell a story that isn’t directly related to the application, but that shows something about your personality, values, and motivations.

However, both types of document have the same overall goal: to demonstrate your potential as a graduate student and s how why you’re a great match for the program.

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.

Most medical school programs interview candidates, as do many (though not all) leading law and business schools.

In research programs, it depends—PhDs in business usually do, while those in economics normally do not, for example.

Some schools interview everyone, while others only interview their top candidates. Look at the websites of the schools you’re applying to for more information on whether they conduct interviews.

Is this article helpful?

Other students also liked.

• Master's vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences
• How to Write a Graduate School Resume | Template & Example
• How to Write a Statement of Purpose | Example

More interesting articles

• Grad School Interview Questions & How to Answer Them
• How (and Who) to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation
• How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples
• When to Apply for Graduate School | Month-by-Month Timeline

Get unlimited documents corrected

✔ Free APA citation check included ✔ Unlimited document corrections ✔ Specialized in correcting academic texts

• Log in
• Site search

5 routes to getting a Doctorate

While most of those studying for a PhD take the PhD by thesis pathway, there are five viable routes to achieving a Doctorate, with both full-time and part-time options available

PhD by thesis

This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal .

A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions. For instance, the University of Glasgow's College of Social Sciences expects a thesis to be 70,000 to 100,000 words including references, bibliography and appendices, while the University of Cambridge has set an upper limit of 80,000 words.

Once completed, you'll need to defend your PhD thesis in front of a panel of examiners during your viva voce .

Doctorate by publication

This route involves submitting previously published work - such as books, book chapters and journal articles, which together form a coherent body of work and show evidence of an original contribution to a particular field of study.

The PhD by publication route is often taken by mid-career academics that haven't had the opportunity to undertake a standard Doctorate degree.

Generally, a minimum of five to eight published pieces are required, but this varies between institutions and depends on their length. The published work will be assessed to the same rigorous standards as a traditional PhD by thesis.

You must also provide a written supporting statement, which typically ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 words.

For instance, the University of Westminster asks for a commentary of 5,000 words (science and technology subjects) or 10,000 words (arts, social sciences and humanities). On the other hand, Queen Margaret University Edinburgh requires 12,000 to 15,000 words on the rationale and theoretical context for the portfolio of published work.

The work will then be presented to an academic committee. A supervisor will assist you with selecting which publications to submit, as well as guidance on the supporting statement.

Some universities accept only their own graduates for a PhD by publication, while others restrict this route to their academic staff. In general, you should have graduated from your first degree at least seven years ago to be eligible.

For example, The University of Manchester has published its own Guidance for the PhD By Published Work , with eligibility only extending to current members of staff.

Professional Doctorate

This type of Doctorate includes a significant taught component and a smaller research project, and is geared primarily towards current professionals in vocational sectors such as:

• engineering and manufacturing
• teaching and education .

Professional Doctorates are often taken on a part-time basis and can last between two and eight years. Like their standard PhD counterparts, they usually begin in October or January.

While you won't typically be looking to get an academic job , your research is expected to contribute to theory as well as professional practice. Projects often revolve around a real-life issue that affects your employer.

Several professional Doctorates, such as the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), are accredited by a professional body - for instance, the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and The British Psychological Society (BPS) - and may also lead to a professional qualification .

Common titles for graduates of professional Doctorate degrees include:

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
• Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Unlike many professional Doctorates, the EngD is typically offered as a full-time course and is aimed at young engineering graduates with little or no professional experience.

Integrated PhD

This four-year qualification, also known as the New Route PhD, involves studying a one-year research Masters degree (MRes) before progressing onto a three-year PhD.

Offered by a select number of universities across the UK, integrated PhDs are supported by the government and the British Council through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) .

Visit Research Council funding for further information on research and funding for different types of PhD.

The integrated PhD involves a combination of taught materials, practical experience and advanced research. This allows you to learn subject-specific methodologies, while building the transferable skills that will enable you to become a leader in your chosen profession.

Institutions can also develop personalised integrated PhD programmes to meet each student's needs. For example, universities may offer you the opportunity to gain a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education - perfect if you're considering a career as a higher education lecturer .

Online/distance learning PhD

As PhDs are based primarily on independent research rather than time spent in lectures and seminars, distance learning has always been a viable route for many Doctoral students.

PhDs by distance learning offered by course providers such as The Open University are therefore a good option to consider if you've got family or work commitments or are an international student - as this gives you the chance to undertake Doctoral research without having to live close to your chosen institution. It's also a suitable mode of study if your subject requires you to be based in a specific location away from the university.

For the most part, you'll be in touch with your supervisor by phone, email or Skype/Zoom. You'll need to bear in mind that even if you opt for this form of research, you'll generally still need to attend university for one or two weeks of each academic year for meetings and to receive research skills training. Your final exam may be undertaken either face-to-face or virtually.

With online PhDs, you can usually register as a full or part-time student. The level of fees you pay varies between institutions - some charge the same as for a standard PhD while others offer a reduced rate.

Check that any funding you plan to apply for is available to distance learning students, as this isn't always the case.

Search for online/distance learning PhDs .

Find out more

• Discover what is a PhD?
• Sort out funding for postgraduate study .
• Consider what to do after completing your PhD .

How would you rate this page?

On a scale where 1 is dislike and 5 is like

• Dislike 1 unhappy-very
• Like 5 happy-very

Thank you for rating the page

• Facts and Figures
• Accreditation
• Maps and Directions
• Employment Opportunities
• BME Path Forward
• Current Undergraduate Students
• Engineering Honors
• Study Abroad
• Department Fast Track
• Current Graduate Students
• Graduate Student Handbook
• Graduate Degree Programs Summary
• Student Organizations
• Prospective Undergraduate Students
• Scholarships and Financial Aid
• Visit with Us
• Prospective Graduate Students
• Grad Admissions
• Graduate Funding Opportunities
• Graduate Advising
• Faculty Research Labs
• Department Leadership
• Affiliated Faculty
• Research Staff
• Partner With Us
• Capstone Overview
• Summer Enrichment Experience
• BME Design Studio

Steps to Fulfill Ph.D. Degree Requirements

If you have any questions, please arrange for a meeting with the graduate academic advisor or your faculty chair. Deadlines occur earlier than students often expect!

Plan courses for first semester

Complete prior to the start of classes.

• Meet with your faculty advisor(s) to discuss research interests and coursework needs. 
• The Graduate Academic Advisor can provide general guidance but final coursework approval will always come from your faculty advisor(s).

Confirm your committee chair

Must be completed before the end of student’s first semester.

• Failure to submit the required form(s) will result in the student being placed on probation.

Submit degree plan

Finish before completion of 36 hours.

• Meet with faculty advisor(s) to discuss research interests and coursework needs. List all previous, current and planned courses for the degree, as well as all committee members.
• This plan needs to be approved by the graduate academic advisor, committee chair and members, director of Graduate Programs and the Graduate and Professional School. 
• Submit via the  Document Processing Submission System .
• Failure to submit the required degree plan by the stated  Grad School deadlines will result in a registration hold being placed on the student’s account.

Expected Timeline:  Degree plans can take upwards of two months for full approval.

Complete qualifying exam

Must be completed by the end of the student’s first academic year (occurs every May).

• Written exam composed of a critical evaluation of a research article.
• More information is provided in March-April during BMEN 674. 
• Failure to meet the required deadlines will result in the student being placed on probation.

Expected Timeline : QE occurs in May, results published by late June.

Complete coursework

Coursework must be completed within two years and one semester. 

Ensure coursework completed matches the degree plan and make changes if necessary via the  Document Processing Submission System .

Complete preliminary exam and proposal

Ph.D. students entering prior to fall 2022: are required to complete the preliminary exam and proposal by the end of the 8 th   semester in the biomedical engineering program (summers are included).  Failure to meet the required deadlines will result in the student being placed on probation.

Ph.D. students entering fall 2022 and after: are required to complete the preliminary exam and proposal by the end of the 7 th  semester in the biomedical engineering program (summers are included).  Failure to meet the required deadlines will result in the student being placed on probation.

Must be completed before the end of the student’s 7 th or 8 th semester, depending on the term that the student entered the biomedical engineering program (summers are included, please see note above).

Scheduled when no more than six hours of formal coursework remain uncompleted on the degree plan.

The preliminary exam is the oral defense of the proposal.

The proposal must be given to the committee at least two weeks before the exam date.

You will schedule this exam internally and turn in the appropriate forms to the graduate academic advisor.

• Must be approved by the graduate academic advisor, all members of the student’s committee, the director of Graduate Programs and the Graduate and Professional School. 

Submit preliminary examination checklist and report

Must be  initially  submitted at least two weeks prior to the preliminary exam date (see below for more details about the preliminary exam and proposal).

• Form to be completed via ARCS.
• Must be approved by the graduate academic advisor, all members of the student’s committee, the director of Graduate Programs and the Graduate and Professional School.  Form is due, in fully approved format, to the Graduate and Professional School within 10 business days of the preliminary exam. 

Ph.D. Deadlines

Expected Timeline:  Graduate and Professional School preliminary exam approvals, once received in that office, can take several weeks for full approval.

Submit research proposal approval form

Submitted after the successful completion of the preliminary exam.

• Must attach full .pdf of proposal. 
• Must include a timeline for all aims, publishing, defending and graduating. The department requires that the student use NSF/NIH guidelines for formatting. Information on these formatting requirements can be found at https://grants.nih.gov/grants/how-to-apply-application-guide/format-and-write/format-attachments.htm .
• For more details, the student should speak to their faculty advisor before writing the proposal. 

Ph.D. students are required to complete the proposal by the end of the 7 th or 8 th  semester, depending on the term that the student entered the biomedical engineering program (summers are included).  Failure to meet the required deadlines will result in the student being placed on probation.

Expected Timeline:  Graduate and Professional School research proposal approvals, once received in that office, can take several weeks for full approval.

Complete residence requirement

Before scheduling final defense

Complete all graded coursework on degree plan. Ph.D. Deadlines

Apply for graduation

During the first month of final semester .

Visit your Howdy portal or the  Graduation homepage  for more information and pay graduation fee.

Schedule and advertise final defense

Request must be received by the Graduate and Professional School, in fully approved format, at least 10 business days before requested defense date.

• Submit request and announcement of the final exam via ARCS in the student’s Howdy portal.
• Must be approved by the graduate academic advisor, the committee chair, the director of Graduate Programs and the Graduate and Professional School. 
• Approvals can take several weeks so plan accordingly.

Ph.D. Deadlines Expected Timeline : Graduate and Professional School final exam request approvals, once received in that office, can take at least 10 business days for full approval.

Submit final defense results

Votes due within 10 business days after final defense .

• Voting is completed via ARCS in the faculty’s Howdy portal by each committee member.
• Students will not be able to access results until the entire form is submitted and approved by the Graduate and Professional School.

Ph.D. Deadlines Expected Timeline : Graduate and Professional School final exam votes approval, once received in that office, can take at least 10 business days for full approval.

Submit dissertation and Written Dissertation Approval form

Submitted after the successful completion of the final exam .

• Approval form completed via ARCS in the student’s Howdy portal.
• The final dissertation document must be uploaded in Vireo and per the  Thesis Office requirements .
• Must be approved by the graduate academic advisor, all members of the student’s committee, the director of Graduate Programs and the Thesis Office.

Ph.D. Deadlines Expected Timeline : Thesis Office dissertation approvals, once received in that office, can take several weeks for full approval.

Arrange for cap and gown.  Visit the Graduation website .

Additional information.

• Requirements listed above are for biomedical engineering and in some cases, are stricter than the university minimum guidelines. Failure to meet any of the above requirements could result in dismissal from the program.

Students must be continuously registered every fall and spring semester until all degree requirements have been met. 

• All documents (e.g., proposal, dissertation) must be submitted to your advisory committee at least two weeks prior to milestone completion.

Requirements listed above are for BME, and in some cases, are stricter than the university minimum guidelines. Failure to meet any of the above requirements could result in dismissal from the program.

All documents (e.g. proposal, dissertation) must be submitted to your advisory committee at least two weeks prior to milestone completion. 

• Undergraduate Majors & Minors
• Academic Calendars
• Graduate Degrees & Certificates
• Academic Requirements
• Online & Distance Education
• Academic Support
• Transfer Degrees
• Academic Opportunities
• Accelerated Options
• Accreditation
• Colleges, Schools & Departments
• Undergraduate
• Prospective Parents & Families
• Contact Your Representative
• International
• Request Information
• Visit Campus
• Veteran & Military
• Cost of Attendance
• Financial Aid
• Payment Options
• Scholarships
• Payment Dates
• Net Price Calculator
• Tuition & Fees
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Learning Communities
• Organizations & Activities
• Fargo-Moorhead Area
• Student Services
• Health & Wellness
• Safety & Security
• Basic Need Resources
• Club Sports
• Dragon Athletics
• Intramurals
• Community Engagement
• Parents & Family
• MSUM Foundation
• Campus Visit
• Maps & Parking
• Virtual Tour
• Accreditation & Compliance
• Our History & Traditions
• College Profile
• Center for Engaged Learning
• Policies & Procedures
• University Leadership
• Mission, Vision & Values
• Strategic Priorities
• Student Achievement Information
• Meet Our President

MS in Cybersecurity Admission & Application Requirements

Cybersecurity application deadlines.

Applications are often accepted after the deadlines posted below when space is available. Please contact the Graduate Studies Office if you have questions.

• Spring: November 15 (priority)

Part 1: Graduate Studies Application

• Online graduate application

Submit the Graduate Online Application - This is only the first step in the application process .

• $35 Non-Refundable application fee for all graduate applications

After you complete the Graduate Online Application:

• Log in to eServices with your StarID.
• Click on Bills and Payment, and you will be able to pay the application fee using a credit or debit card.

Note: Upon completion of the application form in step one, you will receive an email in 1-2 business days giving instructions for the remaining steps and completing the program application in Part 2 . Please note that the steps below cannot be completed until you receive that email. If you do not receive the email with Self Service Center instructions, please contact the Graduate Studies Office .

• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended

Contact ALL the colleges and universities you have attended and have your transcripts sent to:

Graduate Studies Office, MSU Moorhead 1104 7th Avenue South Moorhead, MN 56563

You do not need to order transcripts from MSUM or other Minnesota State system institutions . See Transcript Policy for more details.

Part 2: Graduate Program Application

• While no specific undergraduate major is required, a prospective student i expected to have some background knowledge in computer programming, computer networking, and systems administration. This knowledge can be acquired through short courses and/or undergraduate coursework in these emphasis areas before starting the program.

This requirement will be verified by the Graduate Studies Office and the department.

• Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or at least 3.25 for the last 30 semester credits
• An essay outlining your educational and career goals, knowledge and interest in the cybersecurity discipline, your ability to identify and analyze problems to present appropriate solutions, and your ability to communicate and create a collaborative environment that supports exchange of ideas (2 pages maximum).
• Log in to the Self Service Center site (allow 24 hours after application submission before logging in).
• Select the “Applications” tab, where you will see your graduate application listed.
• Select “Summary” to see a list of all program requirements and corresponding statuses.
• Upload document by selecting the “Upload” link under the respective “Action” column.

Prepare a resume that includes education, work experience, etc. Put your name on all pages.

*International students please see additional admission requirements .

Cybersecurity MS Application Deadlines

• Summer: April 1 ( priority )
• Fall: July 1 ( priority )
• Spring: November 15 ( priority )

Steps to Apply

You may begin your application before all documents are ready. GradCAS saves your progress, and you may return any time to continue updating your application.

• Create your account in GradCAS
• Select your program from the list and click “+” to add to your cart.
• Complete the three general application sections.
• Complete the fourth, MSUM section (See Application Requirements below).
• Make sure to request all documents before submitting your application. Once you submit, you can no longer amend or upload additional documents.
• Pay the $50 application fee.

MSUM 4 + 1 Students Only: MSUM undergraduates may apply formally for admission to the accelerated version of the MS in Cybersecurity after completing or registering for the following core courses: CSIS 155, CSIS 255, CSIS 304, CSIS 349, CSIS 362, and CSIS 364.

The Admission and Graduate Studies Offices will verify your documents and requirements.

Cybersecurity MS Admission Requirements

• A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.00 should complete the Appeal for Minimum Requirement question.

Cybersecurity MS Application Requirements

• GradCAS application
• A current resume.
• Contact information from one reference.
• If you attended MSUM or other Minnesota State system institutions , you can retrieve your unofficial transcripts from eServices , contact [email protected] and we can assist.
• Upon admission, you must request official transcripts from your degree-conferring institutions and any other transcripts listing possible graduate transfer coursework. Official transcripts can be requested through Parchment or the National Student Clearinghouse and sent directly to [email protected] .
• MSUM or MN system institution students do not need to request official transcripts. The admission team will do this on your behalf.

International Student Requirements

• An official comprehensive course-by-course transcript evaluation by Educational Credential Evaluator (ECE) , World Education Services (WES) or any other NACES accredited evaluation firm, from post-secondary institutions outside the U.S.
• The ECE, WES, or NACES evaluation must certify your international degree is equivalent to a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
• TOEFL scores-550 (paper-based) or 78-80 (online)
• IELTS score of 6.5

On Campus International Students-Visa Sponsorship Requirements

Upload the following documents under the Optional Documents section.

• Completed International Graduate Student Agreement form .
• Completed International Graduate Student Sponsor form listing the availability of adequate monetary support for the duration of the graduate program.
• Verification of additional funds is necessary if you are bringing a spouse or other family members.
• An official bank statement. The current requirement is approximately $29,600.
• Completed International Graduate Student Transfer form . (if applicable)
• University Health Insurance must be purchased. (no exceptions)
• Passport copy.

NOTE: International students will not be granted a visa for the summer term. They may apply and begin the program online in the summer, then request visa sponsorship for the following fall or spring term.

For questions about the program or the application process please call Graduate Studies 218.477.2134 or email [email protected] .

Visit the GradCAS Applicant Help Center  for detailed application instructions.

Questions about completing the application: Call | GradCAS Customer Service at 857.304.2086 Email | [email protected] Chat help for applicants is available. (Google Chrome and Firefox are the preferred browsers)

• Admission & Application
• Careers & Outcomes
• Cost & Aid
• Courses & Curriculum
• Faculty & Staff
• Request Info

DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln

• < Previous Dissertation

Home > gradstudies > UNL Dissertations > 208

Graduate Studies

Dissertations and Doctoral Documents from University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2023–

Fighting racism and hate: a case study of black graduate students' perceptions of a university president's responses to racialized incidents.

Kaleb L. Briscoe , University of Nebraska-Lincoln Follow

0000-0002-6333-9867

First Advisor

Deryl K. Hatch-Tocaimaza

Committee Members

Christina W. Yao, Stephanie Bondi, Sydney Freeman, Jr., Amanda Morales

Educational Studies (Educational Leadership and Higher Education)

Date of this Version

Document type.

Dissertation

A dissertation presented to the faculty of the Graduate College at the University of nebraska in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy

Major: Educational Studies (Educational Leadership and Higher Education)

Under the supervision of Professor Deryl K. Hatch-Tocaimaza

Lincoln, Nebraska, February 2020

Copyright 2020, Kaleb L. Briscoe.Used by permission

This qualitative, single case study examined Black graduate students’ perceptions of a university president’s responses to racialized incidents and how these perceptions inform Black graduate students’ larger contextual understanding of campus racial climate. Guided by Hurtado et al.’s (2012) Multi-Contextual Model for Diverse Learning Environments, the research questions were: What are Black graduate students’ perceptions of a university president’s responses to racialized incidents at a PWI? How do Black graduate students’ perceptions of a university president’s responses to racialized incidents inform their larger contextual understanding of campus racial climate at a PWI? Data was analyzed on an institutional-level through institutional documents, president statements, and one, 60 minute interview with 4 staff members and on an individual-level through a demographic survey and two, 60-90 minute interviews with 12 Black graduate students from a large, predominantly White institution in the Mid-Atlantic, the University of Maryland.

The findings were displayed through narrative summaries. As a result of the president’s responses to racialized incidents, Black graduate students felt othered, marginalized, and silenced. Findings demonstrated the lack of institutional response strategies that the president of University of Maryland used to address racialized incidents. Overall, participants viewed the president’s responses to racialized incidents as being untimely, inadequate, and inappropriate. Almost all students and staff participants shared that the president’s responses to racialized incidents through campus statements used non-performative and anti-Blackness rhetoric. Black graduate students reported that the president’s responses, from their vantage point, lacked action-oriented language, next steps, and strategies to assist them during the aftermath of the incidents.

The findings from this study underscored a direct connection between the president’s responses to racialized incidents and how Black graduate students at one campus perceive racial climate as being negative. This further illustrates the significance of the role of the presidency when addressing issues of race and racism, and how their responses have the power to disrupt or harm both the personal lived experiences of individuals and the broader campus racial climate for Black graduate students. Several implications for practice and recommendations for theory and future research are offered.

Recommended Citation

Briscoe, Kaleb L., "Fighting Racism and Hate: A Case Study of Black Graduate Students' Perceptions of a University President's Responses to Racialized Incidents" (2020). Dissertations and Doctoral Documents from University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2023– . 208. https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissunl/208

Since September 16, 2024

Included in

Educational Sociology Commons , Higher Education Commons , Inequality and Stratification Commons , Leadership Studies Commons , Race and Ethnicity Commons , Race, Ethnicity and Post-Colonial Studies Commons

Advanced Search

Search Help

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Administrator Resources
• How to Cite Items From This Repository
• Copyright Information
• Collections
• Disciplines

Author Corner

• Guide to Submitting
• gradstudies Website

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

• Azerbaijani
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Haitian Creole
• Kinyarwanda
• Kurdish (Kurmanji)
• Kurdish (Soranî)
• Odia (Oriya)
• Scots Gaelic
• Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety Graduate Program

About our program

The Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety offers a comprehensive and award winning 18 month graduate program that equips graduates with the essential skills, experience and networks needed for a successful career in the Western Australian  public sector.

Our program fosters professional growth and development and provides valuable exposure to statewide projects and initiatives that help improve the lives of the WA community.

You get the chance to rotate through our diverse business areas as well as other WA public sector agencies.

In partnership with the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, you benefit from a customised rotational plan across both agencies, including shared networking and learning development opportunities.

We also collaborate with the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation to facilitate rotations that give diverse regulatory exposure. 

Program highlights

• A structured 18 month program with customised rotations through diverse business areas, including interagency rotations.
• A permanent appointment with a 6 month probation period.
• Work independently and collaboratively on impactful projects.
• A comprehensive support network including a graduate manager, coordinator and mentor, and your graduate cohort.
• Extensive learning and development opportunities.
• Attractive salary ($79,156 p.a. plus 11.5 per cent superannuation), annual increments, flexible work arrangements and metropolitan office location.

Attributes we are seeking in candidates

• Collaborative team player
• Analytically minded with strong research and problem solving skills.
• Inquisitive mindset
• Action orientated
• Culture and values driven
• Solutions focused
• Enthusiastic and eager to learn

Application dates

Applications for the 2025 graduate program are now closed.

Find out more on our website .

Lauren Pedeferri Coordinator Graduate and Youth Initiatives T: (08) 9222 3863 E:  [email protected]

Grad stories

Hear more from one of our current graduate officers, Tithira!

Tithira Munaweera - DEMIRS Graduate Program

A place of opportunity

• Mila Kaaditj – Aboriginal Career Escalator Undergraduate Program
• Geological Survey of Western Australia Graduate Program
• Department of Health Graduate Development Program
• Department of Health Aboriginal Graduate Program
• Department of Finance Graduate Program
• Public Transport Authority Graduate Program
• Department of Justice Graduate Program
• Public Sector Commission Graduate Program
• Department of Treasury Graduate Program
• Public Sector Vacation Program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
• Office of the Auditor General Graduate Program
• Government Sector Labour Relations Graduate Program
• Public Transport Authority Vacation Student Program
• Department of Training and Workforce Development Graduate Program
• Department of Water and Environmental Regulation Graduate Program
• Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage Graduate Program
• Digital Public Sector Graduate Program
• Department of Treasury Aboriginal Graduate Program
• Department of the Premier and Cabinet Graduate Program
• Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation Graduate Program
• Economic Regulation Authority Graduate Program
• Department of Education – Education Business Services Graduate Program
• Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries Graduate Program
• Department of Health Aboriginal Cadetship
• Department of Treasury Summer and Winter Vacation Programs
• Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Graduate Program
• Forestry Operations Graduate Program
• Mental Health Commission Graduate Program
• Landgate Graduate Program
• Department of Communities Graduate Program

Provided by

A place of opportunity - To update your content or ask a question about this page Email: [email protected]

• Facebook share (Opens in a new tab/window)
• Twitter (Opens in a new tab/window)
• LinkedIn (Opens in a new tab/window)

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.