Obtain a bachelor's degree. Psychology Ph.D. applicants are required to have a four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants are not required to major in psychology, although this may be helpful in gaining the foundation and background necessary to succeed in a psychology Ph.D. program. Psychology majors can expect to complete courses in social cognition, environmental stress, comparative psychology, loss and trauma, psychopharmacology, elementary psychology, introduction to child development and principles of behavior analysis. Students who don't major in psychology should be sure to complete courses in biological sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, mathematics and statistics.
Sit for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination). Most advanced degree programs require students to supply scores from the GRE as a prerequisite for admission. The three-hour examination tests students in analytical writing, verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning.
Obtain a master's degree in psychology. Master's degree programs in psychology typically take two to three years to complete; a small percentage of psychology Ph.D. programs offer the master's degree and Ph.D. together at the close of one five- or six-year collaborative program. Psychology master's degree programs include classroom instruction, as well as supervised clinical experience. Most master's degree programs mandate students complete a thesis based on original research. Students should maintain a high G.P.A., as most Ph.D. programs require applicants to have a 3.0 or higher.
Prepare a professional portfolio. Psychology PhD program admissions and review boards will want to get an idea of an applicant's experience and accomplishments in the field of psychology. PhD program candidates should compile a portfolio detailing any original research, awards, published articles and grants.
Commission and compile letters of recommendation. Psychology PhD programs often require applicants to submit letters from individuals familiar with their personal and professional strengths. Program candidates should include letters from professors, advisers, mentors, and former and current employers.
Prepare for an interview. Several psychology PhD programs require applicants to sit for an interview with one or more members from the admissions board. Applicants should prepare for an interview by researching common questions and recommended answers; mock interviews with professors or advisers would also be beneficial.