Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step1
Research the universities offering your specialization. Some psychology programs are only available through brick-and-mortar schools, while others are available through online or distance education.
Step2
Review the requirements for entry. You need, at minimum, transcripts from all previously attended academic institutions, a statement of intent (sometimes called a personal statement), recommendation letters and Graduate Record Exam scores.
Step3
Request information about graduate loans, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, stipends, grants and tuition remission before applying to a specific program. Doctorate degrees can be costly, and unless you can afford to pay for schooling yourself, finding out about the resources available to you can help you make a decision on a program.
Step4
Review psychology journals and select some faculty members that you would like to study under. You generally spend the first 2 years of school assisting faculty with research and rounding out your knowledge so that you can develop a deeper understanding of the field before pursuing your own research.
Step5
Develop your thesis. Everything from the 2nd year on revolves around your thesis. You need to conduct research and develop your thesis based on your findings. Present and defend your thesis to a board of expert psychologists. Complete a successful presentation and earn your degree.