PhD requirements

The PhD is the highest certificate that is awarded in a university. It is often misconstrued with a doctorate degree but we must tell you clearly that they are different. PhD requirements are hard to accomplish and not many are able to complete the PhD program requirements. There are certain fields that only offer this program. Keep reading as we take a look at PhD requirements.

The first PhD requirement is the actual coursework that a student needs to fulfill. This usually takes about one to two years to complete. This is followed by a series of tests like preliminary, comprehensive and cumulative exams. This puts emphasis on the amount of knowledge gained by a student in the field. Later as part of the PhD degree requirements, they are asked to pass oral and written examinations. There are actually some courses that offer a test in pedagogy where a candidate must teach undergraduate courses.

Another two or three years are required for a student to make a substantial contribution to their chosen field. One of the vital PhD requirements is to present a written dissertation. This paper ranges from 50 to 450 pages in length. It consists of different chapters ranging from literature review and methodology to analysis. Upon completion, there is an oral exam presided over by experts in respective discipline.

A PhD degree can actually be a first step towards a teaching career at a university. The university might offer the candidate a teaching position once they have attained their educational goals.

In terms of PhD admission requirements, schools typically require a bachelor degree or master’s degree for admission. Other PhD admission requirements include high grades, academic coursework in your chosen field of study, and other policies that may vary by universit