Becoming a Ph.D. is not an easy task.
For all the respect the world associates with the word "Ph.D.," the actual journey is an arduous one that will often test the student's patience more than his knowledge. If you harbor dreams of becoming a Ph.D., it is vital you understand this before venturing further. Once you have made your decision, the process of earning a doctorate will involve taking the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and gaining entrance to a university. This will be followed by courses, teaching assignments and working nonstop on your dissertation for a final approval by the doctoral committee.
Instructions
1. Examine your motives for wanting to become a Ph.D. and decide if getting a doctorate will help you achieve your aspirations. For example, if you are interested in law, research or teaching, taking a Ph.D. course is definitely right. However, if you want a doctorate to get a high paying job, it may not be a realistic aim. Except for cutting edge research in areas such as computer technology and nanotechnology, Ph.D.'s are not always paid a lot.
Speak to people who have completed their Ph.D. degree, such as friends, contacts on social networking sites and teachers at college. Find out about the realities of research and decide if you are passionate enough about research to devote anywhere between three to five years to work rigorously on a doctoral degree.
2. Visit websites such as the Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report. Find out about universities that offer doctoral programs in your chosen field and visit the individual institutions' websites to get more information on qualifying criteria and application procedures.
3. Register for the GRE General Test on the Education Testing Service (ETS) website. Procure study material and prepare for the test. When you feel sufficiently confident, take this test and any additional subject-related tests that may be specified for your specialization. Ensure you take the test in time to meet application deadlines of your chosen universities.
4. Apply to the university with the necessary documentation, which will include a completed application, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, copies of official transcripts of previous education and GRE scores.
5. Complete you admission formalities at the institution which accepts you and begin with your courses and any teaching assignments. Take the comprehensive exams, also called as "orals" at the specified time -- which can range between a few months to a few years after admission -- and clear these to proceed to the next stage.
6. Consult your adviser and select the area of interest on which to conduct your original research. Maintain regular contact with your primary adviser and take guidance to ensure your work is relevant and will contribute to the existing knowledge in the field. Make sure you establish a cordial working relationship with your adviser as this will play a significant role in your success at achieving the Ph.D. degree.
7. Work with dedication and discipline to complete your research work. Prepare your draft dissertation and present it to the doctoral committee. Incorporate changes they suggest and prepare your final thesis. Perform well during the thesis defense interview and wait to receive your Ph.D. degree.
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