A doctorate is the highest degree you can get in philosophy.Hard work and perseverance are required to get a PhD in philosophy.The process of getting a PhD in philosophy varies from program to program.The majority of programs will require a completed degree.It's difficult to get a PhD in philosophy, but with hard work and dedication, you can get it.
Step 1: You can choose the PhD programs you want to attend.
Different programs have strengths and weaknesses.One program may have a strong political philosophy department.You should have an idea of what you want to do with your degree.The PhD program you attend should have a strong background in your field.Consider applying to the universities of the leading philosophers in your field.Many people apply for a few spots in philosophy graduate programs.To increase your chance of acceptance, you may want to apply to many different programs.
Step 2: Take the GRE.
Many different schools use the standardized test.It is similar to the SAT but only for students applying to graduate school.Not every school requires it, but it is a good thing to do before you start the application process.The GRE has a verbal, writing, and mathematics section.The first two are important for a philosophy major, but a strong score in all sections is needed to be accepted into graduate programs.
Step 3: A writing sample should be prepared.
Every philosophy PhD program requires a writing sample as part of the application.This should show your organizational and writing skills as well as your research skills.The sample should be written on a philosophy-related topic.If your program required a thesis, you should submit it as a sample.If a thesis wasn't required, write one for the application.Your sample should be of the highest quality.
Step 4: You can take classes in your first two years.
A variety of philosophy disciplines are required for many programs.This will help you understand the entire field of philosophy.PhD programs require 3-4 classes a semester for the first two years.It's important to get the majority of your work done in your first two years.The rest of the PhD program should be spent on researching and writing your thesis.
Step 5: A research proposal should be prepared.
The aims and objectives will form the core of your PhD program.You should use what you learned in your classes to refine your thesis topic.The research proposal should give you an idea of what your research will add to the field of philosophy.During your first two years of graduate school, you should discuss the topic with your professors.The plans for completing your thesis should be outlined in the research proposal.Explaining how your work will build on existing scholarship and outlining each step of the writing process is what it should do.Your proposal will need to be accepted by the department before you can begin writing your PhD thesis.
Step 6: If you have to, complete your oral exam.
You need to take an oral exam before you begin writing your PhD thesis.Depending on the program, the specifics vary.It can include an oral examination on philosophy.After the successful completion of the coursework and exam, many programs will award a master's degree.Some programs won't give you a test, but will still require formal approval before you can move on to the writing stage.
Step 7: Pick an advisor.
Your advisor should have expertise in your field of study.You should choose an advisor who is the best fit for both your research and as a mentor.Try to imagine working with several faculty members.Make sure you are comfortable working with the professor you ultimately choose, and that they will be available to advise you over the next several years.
Step 8: Take a look at the existing scholarship for your topic.
This should be a survey of the field of philosophy.What has been written about your topic should be reviewed.It's included in the beginning of your final thesis.You should be aware of the history of research into your field and how other scholars have contributed to it.Your adviser can suggest books to read.The research that has already been done should be used in your thesis.
Step 9: Do a research on your work.
It is important to research your thesis.Your original research should be the basis of your thesis, as the research portion of the process may take months or years.You should visit libraries and archives.Depending on your topic and subfield of philosophy, your research might include interviews, surveys, and data analysis.Your thesis should show your arguments and original research, not just an overview of other people's work.The research process depends on your advisor.They can point you in the direction of sources and help you analyze your research.
Step 10: It is advisable to begin writing your thesis several months before the due date.
If you want to make new and innovative arguments, you need to analyze your data.Due to the length of the final product, you should give yourself plenty of time to write your paper before the submission date - if you have a year or more, that would be ideal.Depending on your university's requirements and your subject, the exact length of your thesis will vary.Typically, they are between 70,000 and 100,000 words long.A literature review, a summary of your research, and an explanation as to how you arrived at your conclusions are required in addition to your main arguments.
Step 11: Take care of your thesis.
Your advisor should give you feedback on the sections you submit.It's a good idea to begin the writing process early if you're going to go through major rewrites before the final product.Other professors and philosophers can review your work with your advisor.The less changes you have to make after your defense, the better.
Step 12: Defend your thesis.
You will have to present your work.The panel will ask you questions about your argument, resources, and methodology.They are checking to make sure that your work is your own.They are making sure that your argument is logical and sound.The process of defending your thesis can take 1-2 hours.The manner in which the panel is selected varies from institution to institution.There is at least one member of your department present and one expert from outside.The expert should be a philosophy expert because they are often professors from other schools.Your advisor is usually present at the defense, but not on the panel.
Step 13: The panel suggests some changes to be made.
It is very rare for a thesis to be completely rejected during the defense process.Changes will be made if your thesis isn't accepted, so it's common for it to be passed with an understanding.Minor changes are required.They should be made and you should submit your thesis.You will get your doctorate as planned.You might have to take more time to implement the changes.Your doctorate may be delayed because of this.
Step 14: If you want to graduate, apply.
You have earned your PhD in philosophy.You fill out an application to graduate, but it will vary by school.Your application will be approved once your department confirms that you have completed all the requirements.