Applying to study for a PhD in psychology

Are you a psychology student or graduate? Are you interested in studying for a PhD at some future point? Do you want to learn more about PhD study in the UK? Do you know how to apply?This free OpenLearn course is about studying for a PhD in psychology. Even if you have met PhD students and heard about their projects, it’s likely that you have only a vague idea of what PhD study entails. In this course, you’ll learn how it differs from other study options.In Session 1 you will obtain more information and do self-assessment activities to decide whether doing a PhD is the next step for you.If you decide that you’re ready for PhD study, you can use Session 2 to help you apply. This session provides more guidance on application processes. It gives advice on writing a research proposal, approaching prospective supervisors and preparing for an interview.

• Session1Session 1: Why do you want to do a PhD in psychology?
• Introduction
• 1 Taking forward a career in psychology: some options
• 2 Checking your expectations: the PhD skillset
• 3 Finding your starting point: a PhD research area and topic
• 4 Understanding the application procedures
• 4.1 Step 1: Finding a supervisor
• 4.2 Step 2: Formal application procedures
• 4.3 The funding step
• 5 Self-appraisal activity
• Acknowledgements
• Session2Session 2: Beginning the process
• Introduction
• 1 Consider necessary life changes
• 2 Plan your schedule
• 3 Online searches
• 4 Preparing an initial PhD proposal
• 4.1 Thinking through your proposal
• 5 Writing the research proposal, CV and application letter
• 5.1 The research proposal
• 5.2 The CV
• 5.3 Covering letter and application form
• 6 Preparation for an interview
• 6.1 What do the interviewers want?
• Conclusion
• Acknowledgements