Doctoral work culminates in a major piece of original research, your dissertation. In professional programs you must demonstrate that you have learned a specific body of information and can apply it. Assessment usually involves both examination and observation. For example, in teacher training and in clinical programs, such as clinical psychology, your performance will be assessed through supervised internships as well as examinations. Admission Coursework .
Programs vary widely in the specificity of their requirements for admission.
Some professional programs, such as law, allow you great latitude in your undergraduate coursework. Most Ph.D. programs require that you have majored in the field that you intend to pursue or at least have a nearly equivalent amount of coursework in it. As early as possible, learn what you will need for the type of program that interests you. If you don't meet all the requirements, particularly fo rless competitive programs, don't be unduly discouraged. You may be able to arrange to make up work once you are enrolled.