Earn a Bachelor's degree. Your can complete this by attending a four-year university and completing all course material related to your major, and the general education requirements. If, at the undergraduate level, you know what field you would like to get your doctorate in, you may major in that subject or one that is closely related.
Earn a Master's degree. In order to be accepted into a Ph.D. program, you have to complete graduate-level coursework. You should get your Masters in the same field as your desired doctorate degree. The difference between earning your Master's and earning a doctorate degree is likely on the way in which you approach the materials. Doctorate programs emphasize research, as doctoral candidates are expected to contribute unique and original theories and ideas into their field.
Take any necessary entrance exams. If you wish to attend law school, you will need to take the Law School Admissions Test. Medical school programs may require the Medical College Admissions Test. It is also likely that you will need the Graduate Record Examination for a traditional Ph.D. program.
Work in the field you wish to study, so that you will be a stronger applicant with a greater understanding of the challenges present in your field. Work with professors in your field on different research projects.
Research Ph.D. programs that appeal to you. Do not simply rely on school reputation when choosing a Ph.D. program. It will be imperative that you research what professors you will be working with and the type of research opportunities available to you.
Complete your doctoral minor of 15 to 18 credit hours in a subject related to your field of interest, if required by your program.
Take any necessary exams in order to gain your doctorate degree. If you are working towards a Ph.D., for example, you will need to take you preliminary exams before becoming eligible to begin working on your dissertation.
Complete any necessary research papers like a dissertation, as well as any required coursework. To earn a Ph.D., your dissertation may take months, or even years to complete.
Take your final exams to complete your doctorate degree.