How to Go From a MA to a PhD in Psychology

Do you have a master's degree in psychology? Are you interested in getting a PhD? With an MA in general psychology, you could get a PhD in any area of psych: social, cognitive, clinical, counseling, and developmental.

Things You'll Need

  • MA degree
  • Transcript of graduate level coursework
  • Applications for PhD schools
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal experience
  • BA Degree
  • BA Transcript
  • GRE scores
  • GRE psychology scores*
  • *GRE psych scores may be optional at some PhD programs.
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Instructions

  1. What now?

    • 1
      Reading is a big component of a PhD program

      Now that you have your master's in psychology, you need to decide which doctoral degree is right for you: The PhD or the PsyD?

      The PhD stands for doctor of philosophy and is a six- to seven-year program, and generally requires research and a dissertation. The PsyD stands for doctor of psychology, is a four- to five-year program, and generally requires clinical training.

    • 2
      Practice for the GRE

      Take the Psychology GRE, if required by your schools. Send the results at least four weeks before the application deadline.

    • 3
      Get A's in your MA courses

      Make a list of the schools where you plan to apply, gather your application materials, and send your BA and MA transcripts to the admissions office at least four weeks before the deadline.

    • 4
      Get gold-star recommendations

      Get recommendations from professors in your master's program. Choose professors who can accurately discuss your work and interest in a doctorate-level program.

    • 5

      Write your personal statement. Some questions to ask yourself: Why are you interested in this area of psychology? Why do you want a PhD? What can you bring to the program?

    • 6
      Good luck!

      Apply! Make sure to follow up after submitting your application.

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