PhD Cover Letter

PhD is one of the highest academic degrees. It is an abbreviation for the term, Doctorate of Philosophy. Although its says Philosophy it is not confined to the field of Philosophy. One can do a PhD in different fields and subjects. The original meaning of the word 'Philosophy' is 'love of wisdom' and the same applies to this degree. One can apply for a PhD course, or apply for a job that requires a PhD, by writing a PhD cover letter. We would discuss both the cover letters in the coming paragraphs, but let us first discuss in brief, about what it requires to be a PhD.

The eligibility for applying for a PhD degree varies with universities. Different universities have different laws. Some schools in Denmark, Canada, and USA require research and coursework, both to be eligible for PhD. However, in UK, there is no such requirement. The schools mention the requirements such as 2-3 years of fulltime/part time course work, etc. The candidate is required to submit an original thesis, which could be published, to get a PhD degree. Some universities make it compulsory for the candidate to defend the same in front of a team of experts.

In USA, there are three phases to this degree. The first phase is the coursework, which extends over a duration of 1-3 years. The first phase is followed by a preliminary examination to impart more in depth knowledge in the subject. Later the student needs to clear a set of written and oral exams. In addition to these three phases, some PhD programs also require the student to complete a higher level, and undergraduate level-teaching course.

Thus, a PhD in a certain field definitely masters that field, and is expected to possess complete knowledge about the field. One wishing to take up this course must therefore be ready to put in tremendous efforts, and one applying for a job after the same must be aware that he/she is expected to be an expert in the field.

The two sample letters given below will help you write one for yourself as per your requirement.

1. Sample PhD cover letter - Candidate applying for a PhD program

14th December 2011
David J. Carte
1080 Clinton Street
Morrilton, AR 72110
Email: david.carte@chat.com
Ph: 645 125348

To,
Ms. Mascarenhas
The Department Head - PhD
Wella Institute of Higher Studies
AR - 72112

Dear Ms. Mascarenhas,

I am David Carte, and I wish to apply for the PhD program offered by Wella, starting from January 2012. I have completed my Masters in Political Science, and wish to pursue a PhD in the same.

I am very passionate towards this subject and have studied the same with much interest. I have scored very god grades in my Masters and Bachelors, and fit in the eligibility criteria set up by you for academics. I went through the program structure, and believe that Wella is providing the best PhD program in Political Science in the entire US. Thus, I wish to be part of the same, and further enhance my knowledge in this subject. My study in this field has made me realize its importance and application in various fields, and thus believe that a PhD will help me explore it further.

I have filled in the application form, and enclosed the same with this letter. I have also enclosed my resume giving details about my academic background.

Please look into it, and hope to get a positive response soon.

Thank you

Regards

David Carte
david.carte@chat.com
645 125348

2. Sample PhD cover letter - applying for a job

14th December 2011
Marie J. Adair
1340 Orchard Street
Wayzata, WV 26505
Email: MarieJAdair@teleworm.com
Phone: 952-742-5582

To,
Luis M. Rhodes
St. Paul's University
3916 Kelly Drive
Morgantown, WV 26505

Dear Mr. Luis,

I am Marie Adair, and I wish to apply for the position of Organic Chemistry Professor in your college as advertised in WV Times, dated 13th December 2011. I have completed my PhD in Organic Chemistry, and have 5 years of relevant work experience.

I completed my Masters in Science, with honors in Organic Chemistry. I worked with a Reddy Research labs and later applied for PhD. While pursuing my PhD, I also opted for Higher Level Teacher Training course, and completed my PhD in the year 2005. Since then I have been working as a guest faculty with different colleges.

I wish to work with St. Paul's University, as it provides one of the best courses in Organic Chemistry. I thus, feel that I can do justice to this job.

I have attached my resume herewith, and would be eagerly awaiting an interview call from you.

Thank you.

Regards,
Marie Adiar
MarieJAdair@teleworm.com
952-742-5582

Writing a good PhD cover letter is important because you are expected to be good at explaining, and putting forth your point such that the other is convinced. Also, you can refer to Accounting Job Cover Letter and Amazing Cover Letter for more example of letters.