How to Earn a PHD in Philosophy

The PhD in Philosophy will take an average of 3 to 4 full-time years, or 4 to 8 half-time years to complete. Most institutions prefer that PhD candidates dedicate themselves to their studies and research, and so most offer stipends and fellowships. In return for the fellowship or stipend, the PhD candidate will often work as a research or teaching assistant at the institution.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Minimum of a bachelors degree
• Completion of some graduate coursework

1. Expect 1 to 3 years of coursework, depending on amount of graduate coursework previously completed. The coursework is designed to fully develop the candidate's knowledge and understanding of the field of study.
2. Prepare for qualifying exams. The Philosophy candidate will be expected to pass exams that will help determine if the candidate has mastered the core aspects of the Philosophy materials.
3. Request a preliminary oral examination. Though not all universities require the preliminary oral examination, most do. Review the policies of your chosen institution so that you are prepared for this very important examination.
4. Obtain approval for research. You will spend up to 2 years completing your research and writing your doctoral dissertation. The standard dissertation is up to 450 pages long and thoroughly explains the history, reasoning, process and outcomes of all research performed.
5. Defend your dissertation in front of a board of experts. The board is commissioned by the institution and will be experts in the field of Philosophy.
6. Apply for graduation and publish your thesis if appropriate. You are now a full-fledged PhD and will be able to apply your knowledge as a researcher, or as a professor of philosophy at national institutions of higher education. Philosophers also pursue positions in law, government and in private sectors.

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