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Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

Verywell / Evan Polenghi

Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.

Job opportunities, earning a degree, specialty areas, alternatives.

Getting a Ph.D. in psychology can open up a whole new world of career opportunities. For many careers paths in psychology-related career paths, a doctoral degree is necessary to obtain work and certification. A Ph.D. is one option, but it is not the only educational path that's available to reach some of these goals.

A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is one of the highest level degrees you can earn in the field of psychology . If you're considering pursuing a graduate degree, you might be wondering how long it takes to earn a Ph.D. in psychology . Generally, a bachelor's degree takes four years of study. While a master's degree requires an additional two to three years of study beyond the bachelor's, a doctoral degree can take between four to six years of additional graduate study after earning your bachelor's degree.

Recently, a new degree option known as the Psy.D. , or doctor of psychology, has grown in popularity as an alternative to the Ph.D. The type of degree you decide to pursue depends on a variety of factors, including your own interests and your career aspirations.

Before deciding which is right for you, research your options and decide if graduate school in psychology is even the best choice for you. Depending on your career goals, you might need to earn a master's or doctoral degree in psychology in order to practice in your chosen field. In other instances, a degree in a similar subject such as counseling or social work may be more appropriate.

A doctorate in psychology is required if you want to open your own private practice.

If you want to become a licensed psychologist, you must earn either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology.

In most cases, you will also need a doctorate if you want to teach and conduct research at the college or university level. While there are some opportunities available for people with a master's degree in various specialty fields, such as industrial-organizational psychology and health psychology , those with a doctorate will generally find higher pay, greater job demand, and more opportunity for growth.

In order to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, you need to first begin by earning your bachelor's degree. While earning your undergraduate degree in psychology can be helpful, students with bachelor's degrees in other subjects can also apply their knowledge to psychology Ph.D. programs . Some students in doctorate programs may have a master's degree in psychology , but most doctorate programs do not require it.

After you’ve been admitted to a graduate program, it generally takes at least four years to earn a Ph.D. and another year to complete an internship. Once these requirements have been fulfilled, you can take state and national exams to become licensed to practice psychology in the state where you wish to work.

Once you enter the graduate level of psychology, you will need to choose an area of specialization, such as clinical psychology , counseling psychology, health psychology, or cognitive psychology . The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits graduate programs in three areas: clinical, counseling, and school psychology.   If you are interested in going into one of these specialty areas, it's important to choose a school that has received accreditation through the APA.

For many students, the choice may come down to a clinical psychology program versus a counseling psychology program. There are many similarities between these two Ph.D. options, but there are important distinctions that students should consider. Clinical programs may have more of a research focus while counseling programs tend to focus more on professional practice. The path you choose will depend largely on what you plan to do after you complete your degree.

Of course, the Ph.D. in psychology is not the only graduate degree option. The Psy.D. is a doctorate degree option that you might also want to consider. While there are many similarities between these two degrees, traditional Ph.D. programs tend to be more research-oriented while Psy.D. programs are often more practice-oriented.

The Ph.D. option may be your top choice if you want to mix professional practice with teaching and research, while the Psy.D. option may be preferred if you want to open your own private psychology practice.

In the book "An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology," authors John C. Norcross and Michael A. Sayette suggest that one of the key differences between the two-degree options is that the Ph.D. programs train producers of research while Psy.D. programs train consumers of research. However, professional opportunities for practice are very similar with both degree types.

Research suggests that there are few discernible differences in terms of professional recognition, employment opportunities, or clinical skills between students trained in the Ph.D. or Psy.D. models. One of the few differences is that those with a Ph.D. degree are far more likely to be employed in academic settings and medical schools.

Social work, counseling, education, and the health sciences are other graduate options that you may want to consider if you decide that a doctorate degree is not the best fit for your interests and career goals.

A Word From Verywell

If you are considering a Ph.D. in psychology, spend some time carefully researching your options and thinking about your future goals. A doctoral degree is a major commitment of time, resources, and effort, so it is worth it to take time to consider the right option for your goals. The Ph.D. in psychology can be a great choice if you are interested in being a scientist-practitioner in the field and want to combine doing research with professional practice. It's also great training if you're interested in working at a university where you would teach classes and conduct research on psychological topics.

University of Pennsylvania; School of Arts and Sciences. Information for applicants .

American Psychological Association. Doctoral degrees in psychology: How are they different, or not so different?

U.S. Department of Labor.  Psychologists . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Norcross JC, Sayette MA. An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (2020/2021 ed.) . New York, NY: The Guilford Press; 2020.

Davis SF, Giordano PJ, Licht CA. Your Career in Psychology: Putting Your Graduate Degree to Work . John Wiley & Sons; 2012. doi:10.1002/9781444315929

US Department of Education. Bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by sex of student and discipline division: 2016-17 .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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Psychology Graduate Program

• Psychology Department

Welcome to the Psychology PhD program at Harvard University!

Our work is united in the focus on the science of mental life, yet highly interdisciplinary.

The Psychology Department is organized into four research areas: 

• Clinical Science/ Experimental Psychopathology  
• Developmental Psychology  
• Social Psychology
• Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB)

Students enrolled in the PhD program may follow one of two tracks: Clinical Science or the Common Curriculum, which includes Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB). Students may only be considered for Clinical Science during the graduate school application process, and may not transfer in at a later date.

Click here to view our current graduate student profiles. 

Clinical Psychology PhD

Ph.d. in clinical psychology.

Welcome to the doctoral program in Clinical Psychology Program at Teachers College, Columbia University. The Clinical Psychology Program was founded in 1947-1948. It was APA-accredited in the first group of programs that were reviewed for accreditation in 1948 and that status has been uninterrupted. Our most recent site visit from the APA occurred in 2021, and we have been accredited until June 2031.

Our program operates according to a scientist-practitioner model. We are, thus, dedicated to training students to generate empirically-based knowledge in clinical psychology and to perform clinical work that is constantly informed by traditional and emerging scholarship in the field. We expect our students to learn to expertly produce, analyze, and discuss scientific material. We also expect our students to become proficient at providing clinical services to a diverse population. And, most importantly, we expect our students to learn to integrate these two goals. As our mission statement in the TC catalog notes, “The driving goal of our Clinical Psychology Program is to provide rigorous training in both contemporary clinical science and clinical assessment and intervention.”

A good deal of the training, especially that related to research, occurs through intensive participation in a research lab directed by a specific faculty mentor. It is this context, through this lab, that students develop their scientific skills and begin presenting their work at professional conferences and publishing in professional journals. Each student, of course, is also part of a cohort of doctoral students with whom they learn, collaborate, and socialize.

In recent years, graduates of our doctoral program have gained employment in tenure-track academic positions, as research scientists in medical schools, and as clinical researchers in a broad range of treatment settings. In addition, many of our graduates practice independently as well as in community settings for under-served populations.

The list of faculty reviewing and potentially accepting applicants for each cycle is listed on the application itself. Please check the application itself or email the admissions office at 

[email protected] for clarification.

Doug Mennin, Ph.D.

Professor, Director of Clinical Training

Research Centers

Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services

The Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services (DHCEPS) is an integral part of the teaching and training programs in Clinical, Counseling, School Psychology, Learning Disability and Reading Specialist. The Center works in a two-folded way; first it offers students the opportunity to integrate theoretical coursework with practicum experience within a multidisciplinary setting. This training is foreseen by highly qualified supervisors. Simultaneously, the DHCEPS offers affordable psychological and educational services to individuals, couples, and families residing in the nearby neighborhood of the New York City area. The emphasis is on respecting and working with clients from diverse, multicultural contexts regardless of age, racial and ethnic background, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, and religious or cultural affiliations. Additionally, DHCEPS is committed to maintaining a liaison with community-based agencies and organizations such as schools, hospitals, and mental health clinics, among others.

Teachers College Resilience Center for Veterans and Families

The Resilience Center for Veterans & Families pairs groundbreaking research on human emotional resilience with clinical training of therapists to assist veterans and their families as they transition back to civilian life.

Dean Hope Center for Psychological Services

The Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services (DHCEPS) is an integral part of the teaching and training programs in Clinical, Counseling, School Psychology, Learning Disability and Reading Specialist. The Center works in a two-folded way; first it offers students the opportunity to integrate theoretical coursework with practicum experience within a multidisciplinary setting. This training is foreseen by highly qualified supervisors.  Simultaneously, the DHCEPS offers affordable psychological and educational services to individuals, couples, and families residing in the nearby neighborhood of the New York City area. The emphasis is on respecting and working with clients from diverse, multicultural contexts regardless of age, racial and ethnic background, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, and religious or cultural affiliations.  DHCEPS also commits to maintaining a liaison with community-based agencies and organizations such as schools, hospitals and mental health clinics.

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2024, Summer 2024, and Fall 2024 terms.

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 95
• Entry Terms: Fall

Application Deadlines

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines , such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

Requirements from the tc catalog (ay 2023-2024).

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

View Full Catalog Listing

The Program requires the following:

The completion of 95 points of academic credit during three to four years of residence at the College.

A full-time, twelve-month clinical internship during the fourth or fifth year of study.

An original piece of empirical research, which also serves as a qualifying paper, to be completed during the second year of study.

A passing grade on the certification examination (on Research Methods) during the third year of study.

A Clinical case presentation as well as a research presentation, during the third year, each demonstrating the student’s ability to integrate theory, research, and practice.

A doctoral dissertation, which must be completed no later than the seventh year after matriculation.

During the first year of study, in addition to participating in a research lab, doctoral students typically take the following didactic courses: Ethical and professional issues in clinical psychology (CCPX 5030); Psychological measurement (HUDM 5059); courses on statistics and modeling; Research methods in social psychology (ORLJ 5040); Child psychopathology (CCPX 5034); Adult psychopathology (CCPX 5032); History and systems of psychology (CCPX 6020); and Dynamic psychotherapies (CCPX 5037). Students also take two semesters of psychological testing and diagnostic assessment (CCPX 5330, CCPX 5333) and a course in clinical interviewing (CCPX 5539).

Second Year

During their second year, students’ didactic courses include Brain and behavior (BBS 5068, 5069); Cognition, emotion, and culture (CCPX 5020); Psychotherapy with children (CCPX 5531); Cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal therapies (CCPX 5038); Clinical work with diverse populations (CCPX 5036); and Seminar on life course development (HUDK 6520). In addition, students sign up for a full year of research practicum with a faculty member (culminating in an empirical second- year project), a full-year adult psychodynamic psychotherapy practicum (CCPX 6335), and an additional elective full-year clinical rotation (e.g., on child and adolescent psychotherapy; on neuropsychological assessment).

Third-year didactic courses include Group dynamics: A systems perspective (ORL 5362); and Dissertation seminar (CCPX 7500). There is also a full-year advanced psychodynamic clinical practicum (CCPX 6336) and a one-semester supervision and consultation practicum (CCPX 6333). Most students also elect a full-year family therapy practicum (CCPJ 6363).

Fourth and Fifth Year

The fourth year is typically focused on clinical externship (CCPX 5230) and extensive work on the dissertation. A full-year fourth year psychotherapy practicum (CCPX 6338) is recommended, though not required. Year five is usually spent on a full- year clinical internship (CCPX 6430).

The program allows only 12 points of graduate work from another institution to be transferred. No transfer credits are awarded for practica, workshops, or independent study.

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Teachers College, Columbia University 328 Horace Mann

Contact Person: Rebecca Shulevitz

Phone: (212) 678-3267 Fax: (212) 678-8235

Email: shulevitz@tc.columbia.edu

Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences

• PhD Requirements

• Financial Support
• Graduate Courses
• Facilities and University Resources
• Training Programs and Grants
• Graduate Awards

The PhD will typically be completed in five years, with each student’s progress and time to degree evaluated each semester during their first year of the PhD program, and annually thereafter. Satisfactory progress toward the PhD is required for continued stipend funding and tuition remission.

Each graduate student will identify an area in which to concentrate: biopsychology, developmental psychology, or cognitive psychology. The student will develop intensive knowledge and understanding of the area of concentration through advanced seminars, topical seminars, and research experience.

A brief summary of the requirements of the PhD in Psychological and Brain Sciences follows. Complete information for current PhD students and faculty advisers is available in the Graduate Student Handbook.

Courses and Seminars

All courses must be passed with a grade of B- or better (B- is passing, but unsatisfactory).

Fundamentals & Core Topics in Psychology

AS.200.613 Fundamentals of Psychological & Brain Sciences, AS.200.654 Psychological & Brain Sciences Core Topics A, and AS.200.655 Psychological & Brain Sciences Core Topics B will offer an introduction to the fundamental principles of cognitive and physiological psychology and psychological and brain sciences. Students will read seminal and contemporary papers in topics that cover the breadth of the field.

A thorough understanding of statistics is useful in virtually all research settings. Two statistics courses are required during the first year of graduate training. The normal sequence is 200.657 Advanced Statistical Methods in the fall, followed by 200.658 Advanced Research Design and Analysis in the spring. Students with exceptional statistical training may take two more advanced courses by arrangement with the Director of Graduate Studies and their faculty advisor. Students are encouraged to take more statistics, as appropriate.

Topical Seminars

One or more faculty members lead seminars on topics of special interest, such as cognitive processes, developmental psycholinguistics, neuro-physiological aspects of behavior, mathematical psychology, and information processing. Through these seminars a student gets intensive knowledge in particular specialties. Topics vary from semester to semester and are determined by the interests of both faculty and graduate students. The format of the seminar is optional, and the course may or may not require formal tests of knowledge. Students are urged to complete topical seminars as appropriate.

Research Seminars

Students and faculty engaged or interested in research in particular areas organize these seminars. Participants discuss their own research and other current research in the area.

PhD Milestones

First-year research proposal & project.

During the first year, the student, together with the faculty advisor, chooses a research project that will provide extended research experience. Normally, the student designs a study as a larger ongoing project. A project proposal must be submitted by April 15 of the first year; this presents the nature of the problem, reviews the relevant literature, and describes the study in detail, together with the anticipated data, means of analysis, and interpretations. A final report must be submitted by December 15 of the second year; this includes all the information appropriate for published work.

Master of Arts in Psychology

A student who has been admitted into the PhD program can earn a Master of Arts degree in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the PhD degree. Normally, candidates for the PhD degree in psychology will qualify for the MA degree at the end of their second year, after having completed two area seminars and at least two courses in psychological research design and/or advanced statistics, provided that their performance is of the quality judged satisfactory for the MA level. There is no terminal master’s program.

Further information about the Master of Arts degree requirements .

Advanced Examination

The Advanced Examination is designed to assess expertise in the student’s area of concentration. The examining committee will consist of the advisor and two additional faculty members.

The exam must be successfully completed before the fall semester of the third year and will include a multiday written portion and an oral portion. The Advanced Examination is broad; e.g., cognitive psychology, not just attention; psychobiology, not just motivation.

Literature Review

The literature review should be modeled on articles appearing in the Psychological Bulletin or another high-quality journal of reviews, and it should be suitable for publication in such a journal.

Ordinarily, it will provide a background for the thesis plan, but students may prepare a literature review on a topic other than the one selected for their thesis. In either case, the literature review should be a separate document.

The literature review will be evaluated by the same committee of at least three faculty members from the department who evaluate the student’s thesis plan. The literature review should be submitted to the committee prior to or simultaneously with the thesis plan, by April 15 of the fourth year.

Thesis Plan

The thesis plan is a detailed document stating the issue the student wishes to address in a dissertation, the experimental design to be used, and the way the student will interpret the various possible results. In essence, it is a proposal for a research project with predictions and preliminary data, rather than results. The outline of the experiments should be sufficiently clear that the readers will fully understand the procedures; the plan should also include a timeline.

This plan should be completed as soon as possible, but no later than June 30 following the fourth year. Dissertation research cannot proceed until the Thesis Plan has formally been approved. Three or more full-time faculty from this department constitutes the student’s thesis plan committee. This committee is chosen by your advisor.

Dissertation

The dissertation should be your finest and most independent piece of scholarly work to date. It often establishes the pattern for a research career and the basis for post-doctoral study and/or employment.

Faculty members have different styles of working with students on dissertations, but in general you should initially present a detailed outline of the dissertation to your advisor, and then work closely with your advisor until the dissertation is completed.

Graduate Board Oral Examination

The final requirement for the PhD is the Graduate Board Oral Examination, at which you defend your thesis orally before a faculty committee consisting of three faculty members of the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and at least two members of the Hopkins faculty outside the department. Typically, the committee involved in your Thesis Plan will also serve on the Final Oral Exam/Dissertation Defense committee, as selected by your advisor and approved by the Department Chair and Graduate Board.

Learn more about the Graduate Board Oral Exam Process , degree requirements , degree deadlines , and all other Graduate Board information.

Teaching Assistantships

Please see the Graduate Handbook for more information about teaching requirements.

Advanced students may apply for a Dean’s Teaching Fellowship . This prestigious fellowship provides graduate students an opportunity to grow both as educators and scholars by allowing them to propose, design, and offer an undergraduate seminar course.

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

• Prospective Students

PhD Requirements

The following requirements are in addition to, or further elaborate upon, those requirements outlined on the  The Graduate School website .

Coursework Requirements

• PSYCH 401-1 Psychology Proseminar: Biological and Cognitive Bases of Behavior
• PSYCH 401-2 Psychology Proseminar: Social and Personality Bases of Behavior
• PSYCH 519 Ethics: Responsible Conduct of Research
• PSYCH 450: Fundamentals of Statistics
• PSYCH 451: Statistics in Experimental Design
• PSYCH 453: Correlation and Regression
• PSYCH 405: Psychometric Theory
• The Graduate School requires a minimum of 27 courses

 (Additional and specific requirements differ for the five Program Areas. Consult Area Requirements.)

Other PhD Requirements

• Master’s Thesis
• Comprehensive Qualifying Examination
• PhD Dissertation Proposal Defense
• PhD Dissertation Defense
• Research Projects: in addition to master's project and PhD dissertation, students are expected to engage in supervised research projects
• Teaching experience (serving as a teaching assistant, and guest lecturing)

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The clinical program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System.

Your program will typically be fully funded for five years thanks to stipend grant support and guaranteed teaching fellowships. Tuition support is also available for a six-year program. Funding is also available for research, travel, and conferences. You will have access to the latest technology at FAS Research Computing and the Neuroimaging Facility at the Center for Brain Science.

Examples of student dissertations and theses include “Childhood Anxiety Disorders: Developmental Risk Factors and Predictors of Treatment Response,” “Clarifying the Pathway to Suicide: An Examination of Subtypes of Suicidal Behavior and Their Association with Impulsiveness,” and “A Cognitive Neuroscience of Social Groups.”

Graduates have secured positions in academia at prestigious institutions such as Princeton University, Dartmouth College, and Columbia University. Others have embarked on careers with companies such as Facebook, BetterUp, and Apple.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Psychology and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Areas of Study

Cognition, Brain, and Behavior | Experimental Psychopathology and Clinical | Developmental | Social Psychology

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Psychology .

Academic Background

While an undergraduate concentration in psychology is not required, some social science coursework is recommended. Because the program is heavily quantitatively oriented, college-level math and statistics are also advised. Research experience is extremely helpful; successful applicants have often worked for professors, done research projects as part of college courses, written an undergraduate thesis, or volunteered in a psychology research lab.

Please Note: Before making the decision to apply, the program in Psychology suggests checking individual faculty/lab websites or emailing faculty directly to inquire whether they plan to consider applicants for Fall 2024 admission. It’s important to note that while individual faculty members may have every intention of bringing in a new student this year, we cannot guarantee that they will all be able to do so. The total number of offers of admission to be extended by the graduate program is based on applicant preparedness and fit, availability of university advising and support resources, and target class size. Some of these factors are not able to be determined until after the applicant pool has been finalized.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Optional

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Psychology

See list of Psychology faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

Graduate Program Requirements

Aspects of the requirements for the Ph.D. in psychology are explained in greater detail in departmental memoranda available to enrolled graduate students. Complete degree requirements can be found on the Psychology Graduate Studies website

Course Requirements

Students complete at least six graduate courses, three of which must be offerings of the Department of Psychology. At least one of the 6 courses is a “breadth course” and must be outside of the student’s area of specialization. This breadth course can be in another area of the Psychology Program or a relevant graduate level course offered by another department.  Students are required to complete, with no lower than a B grade, three courses in statistics (PSC 204-series) covering psychometrics and the analysis of experimental and correlational data, analysis of variance and covariance, and multivariate analysis.   

Individual Research Project

Each student, under the supervision of a faculty member, designs, conducts, analyzes and writes a publishable report on a research project. This individual research project begins during the first year in the program and is completed prior to the oral qualifying examination. All students are expected to involve themselves in research throughout their graduate studies.

Advanced Inquiry in Psychological Science

The goal of this course is for students to develop expertise in one or more areas of psychology relevant to their research and to demonstrate that expertise, through written work, to their advising committee. The timing of the course will vary from student to student but many students will complete it late in the second year or early in the third year, after the completion of most of the coursework. This course must be completed before the student can schedule their QE.  

Oral Qualifying Examination (QE)

Once the written examination has been passed and all other requirements (including course work) are satisfied, students begin preparation for the oral qualifying examination. The primary purpose of the QE is to validate that the student is academically qualified to conceptualize a research topic, undertake scholarly research, and successfully produce the dissertation required for a doctoral degree. In addition, the QE provides an opportunity for the QE committee to provide important guidance to the student regarding the chosen research topic. The QE should be taken no later than the student’s 9th quarter in the program (end of the 3rd year). Students advance to candidacy for the Ph.D. after passing the QE. A dissertation proposal is due within one year of passing the QE.  

Dissertation

Once the oral examination has been passed, the student must file for candidacy for the Ph.D., and a dissertation committee is appointed by the graduate dean. The student must then develop and carry out an empirical investigation of a significant problem in the chosen area of specialization. Once the dissertation has been completed, the candidate may be asked to defend the dissertation in a formal oral examination.  

Progress Reviews

Student progress is assessed annual using the Graduate Studies Student Progress Assessment tool. The student’s individual advising committee (pre-QE) or dissertation committee (post-QE) meets to assess progress before filling out the assessment tool.  

Typical Timeline and Sequence of Events  

PhD Admission FAQ

General Information

When is the application due and how do i apply .

NOW CLOSED- The application is due on  November 30, 2023  at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. 

Apply using the  application portal .

How long does it take to get a PhD in Psychology at Stanford?

The PhD program is designed to be completed in five years of full-time study. Actual time will depend on students' prior background, progress, and research requirements. The minimum residency requirement for the PhD degree is 135 units of completed coursework and research units.

What are the requirements for the PhD degree in Psychology?

Please consult the  PhD Requirements page .

What are the different subfields within the graduate program in Psychology?

• Affective Science
• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Social Psychology

What is the Department's teaching requirement?

PhD students must complete at least five quarters of teaching assistantship (TA) under the supervision of a faculty member. Students are required to attend a TA training workshop in their second year. In addition, students are encouraged to take advantage of department and university teacher training programs. Students for whom English is a second language are expected to acquire sufficient fluency in English. All international students must be approved by  Stanford’s EFS department . 

How many students apply to the Stanford Psychology PhD? How many are admitted? What are the demographics?

Stanford provides public reports with summary data about graduate programs and graduate admissions. Please consult the public dashboards published by Stanford's office of Institutional Research & Decision Support on  doctoral admissions ,  doctoral enrollment and demographics , and  doctoral completion and time-to-degree . 

Is there a standalone Master of Arts program in Psychology?

The Department of Psychology does not offer a terminal Master’s degree program. Current doctoral students within the Department or in another Stanford graduate program may apply to be awarded a Master of Arts in Psychology during the course of their PhD program.

Does your department have a program in Clinical Psychology? Are you accredited by the APA?

No. Our department does not have a program in Clinical Psychology. As such, we are not accredited by the APA.

Do you have any advice about getting into grad school?

The Stanford School of Humanities and Sciences offers an online resource for prospective graduate school applicants:  Guide on Getting Into Grad School . We encourage applicants to take advantage of this resource.

Financial Support

What is the annual cost of attending your program.

All students admitted to the Psychology PhD program receive five years of 12-month funding. Financial support is provided through a combination of fellowship stipend and salary, and assistantship salary and tuition allowance. Information about the cost of attendance and funding options are available from the  Financial Aid Office .

What type of financial support do you offer?

All students admitted to the Psychology PhD program receive five years of 12-month funding. Financial support is provided through a combination of fellowship stipend and salary, and assistantship salary and tuition allowance. Funding is contingent upon satisfactory academic progress. Students are encouraged to pursue fellowships offered by the University and by national organizations, such as the National Science Foundation.

Stanford University also offers the  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  program, designed to build a multidisciplinary community of Stanford graduate students dedicated to finding creative solutions to the world's greatest challenges. The program awards up to 100 high-achieving students every year with full funding to pursue graduate education at Stanford, including the PhD in Psychology. To be considered, you must apply to Knight-Hennessy Scholars and separately apply to the Psychology Department. Note that the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program application deadline is in the spring  before  the autumn application cycle.

Do you offer support for the summer months?

Yes, funding is offered for 12 months a year for 5 full years, including 5 summers.

Preparing for Admission

Am i eligible to apply if my undergraduate major is not in psychology.

An undergraduate major in Psychology is not required; applicants from other backgrounds can apply and be admitted. All applicants should have sufficient foundational knowledge and research experience prior to the program to allow them to go straight into graduate-level coursework and conduct research.

My undergraduate degree was completed outside the United States. Is my degree eligible? 

Please refer to the Stanford Graduate Admission Office's table of  minimum level requirements for international academic credentials . These credential requirements are set by the University and nonnegotiable.

If I have prior graduate work, can it be transferred to the PhD program?

No, the Department of Psychology does not allow the transfer of unit credits from your previous program.

How competitive is admission to the PhD program?

Admission to our program is highly competitive. About 10-15 admits enter the program each year and are chosen from a pool of over 600 applicants. These students are selected on the basis of a strong academic background as demonstrated by previous coursework, research experience, and letters of recommendation. Please be assured that the Department reviews each application very carefully and makes decisions on an individual basis.

The Application Process

How do i apply.

Please visit the  PhD Admissions page  for instructions on how to apply to the Psychology PhD Program, graduate application requirements, and the link to the online application. 

Is there an application fee? If so, can I apply for a fee waiver?

The fee to apply for graduate study at Stanford is $125, see  Application Fee . Fee waivers are available for some applicants. Please visit Graduate Admissions for information on applying for an  Application Fee Waiver .

Can I submit another application to a different department within the University?

You may only apply to one degree program per academic year. However, you may apply concurrently to one departmental program and to a professional school program (law, medicine, or business).

I'm interested in the joint JD/PhD in Law and Psychology - how does it work?

Students interested in the JD/Ph.D. joint degree must apply and gain entrance separately to the School of Law and the Psychology Ph.D. program. Additionally, students must secure permission from each degree program to pursue the joint degree. Interest in both degrees should be noted on the student’s admissions applications and may be considered by the admissions committee of each program. Alternatively, an enrolled student in either the Law School or the Psychology department may apply to add the other degree and undertake the joint degree program, preferably during their first year of study. Students participating in the JD/Ph.D. joint degree program are not eligible to transfer and receive credit for a masters, or other degree, towards the Psychology Ph.D.

Students interested in the MPP/Ph.D. joint degree must apply and gain entrance to the Public Policy program’s MPP degree and the Psychology Ph.D. program. Students should note their interest in both degrees on their graduate admissions applications. Additionally, students must secure permission from each degree program to pursue the joint degree

Which faculty are accepting new students this year?

All active faculty are potentially accepting new students each year. In your application, we ask you to list the top 3 faculty you are most interested in working with. Multiple readers will review your application in full regardless of who you list. 

My institution does not report GPAs on a 4.0 grading scale. How should I report my GPA on the application?

Please do not convert your GPA to a 4.0 grading scale. You should enter “0.00” for the GPA and use the “Unconverted GPA” and “Unconverted GPA System” fields instead. A link to detailed instructions for reporting GPA is located near these fields on the application.

I attended multiple undergraduate institutions. In what order should I list them on the application?

The institution where you earned or expect to earn your Bachelor's degree should be listed as "Post-Secondary Institution 1." The remaining institutions don’t have to follow a particular order. List all institutions that were attended for at least one full academic year. Please note that you must submit a transcript for all courses taken towards your undergraduate degree, including those from your nonprimary institutions.

When should I submit my transcripts if my degree will still be in progress at the time of the application deadline?

The most current version of your unofficial transcript must be submitted as part of your electronic application, even if the grades from your fall term are not available. The absence of these grades will have no impact on the review of your application. If you are admitted and enrolled, we will ask you to submit your final transcript showing all grades and proof of degree conferral.

Should I submit official transcripts?

At the time of your initial application, please only submit your unofficial transcripts. Submit the unofficial transcripts as part of your electronic application, per the instructions in the application portal. A short list of applicants who move forward to the next stage of the review process will be contacted with instructions for submitting official transcripts at a later stage. 

It may be helpful to understand the difference.  Unofficial transcripts  are transcripts issued by your college or university directly to you, the student, which you then submit to Stanford for review. Official transcripts  are transcripts issued by your college or university directly to Stanford University, usually by secure electronic transfer and sometimes in hard copy in signed and sealed envelopes. The key difference is that an  official transcript  has never been directly handled by the applicant.

Do you have a minimum GPA score?

We do not require applicants to have a minimum GPA for consideration, and we do not release information about the average GPAs of accepted students. As a guideline, successful applicants typically earn undergraduate cumulative GPAs among the top of their class. However, please keep in mind that admission to our graduate program depends on a combination of factors, and all areas of a student’s application are weighed similarly when applications are reviewed. If our research areas meet your educational goals, we encourage you to submit an application. 

May I contact the faculty directly during the application process?

Applicants are not prohibited from reaching out to faculty directly during the application cycle. However, please understand that our faculty are extremely busy, and it is quite possible that you will receive either a very short response or no response at all. This does not mean the faculty are not interested in your application. All applications will be read and reviewed in full during the formal review process. Note that per Department policy, all faculty are potentially accepting graduate students in any given cycle, so you do not need to contact faculty in advance to see if that specific mentor is accepting students for the coming year.

Can I meet with Department staff either by phone or email before I apply to discuss my application materials or ask general questions about the program?

No, the Department staff do not have meetings with or provide individualized advising for prospective applicants. Please understand that this is a matter of bandwidth and equity. We do not have the ability to offer personalized service to all interested applicants, so we do not offer them at all. By Department policy, our staff do not provide any evaluative feedback on prospective applicants' materials, so please do not contact us with CVs, academic histories, etc to request feedback or ask about odds for acceptance. For support in crafting your application, we recommend that you turn to your existing network of mentors (e.g., your letter writers) and/or the resources offered by your current or prior academic institution(s).

TOEFL and GRE

Is the general gre required is the subject gre required.

No, the Stanford Psychology PhD program does not require the general GRE or the subject GRE. We will not be collecting any information related to GRE exam scores on the application. Please do not submit GRE scores to Stanford for our program.

What is the TOEFL exam, and am I required to take it?

The TOEFL is a standardized test of English language proficiency. Per University policy, the TOEFL exam is required for international, non-native English speakers who apply to any Stanford graduate program. 

The TOEFL score requirements are waived for international non-native English speakers who have received a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an institution in the United States or another English-speaking country. Therefore, applicants with these degrees from the U.S., Australia, Canada (except Quebec), New Zealand, Singapore, Ireland, and the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales) are exempt from taking the TOEFL and do not need to submit the TOEFL waiver request form.

When should I take the TOEFL?

The TOEFL must be taken by the published application deadline. 

What is the minimum TOEFL score required for admission?

Please visit the website of  Stanford's Office of Graduate Admissions  for more information on the University’s minimum requirements.

If my TOEFL score falls below the University’s minimum, am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, you may still apply. If your TOEFL scores fall below the University's minimum requirements and you are admitted, Stanford may require you to take an English placement exam and/or English classes.

May I submit the IELTS instead of the TOEFL to demonstrate English proficiency?

The IELTS is not accepted at Stanford University; only the TOEFL is accepted to provide proof of proficiency in English.

How do I request a TOEFL exemption or waiver?

For all questions related to TOEFL exemptions or waivers please refer to the website of  Stanford’s Office of Graduate Admissions . Please note that the central office makes all final decisions regarding TOEFL waivers; the Department of Psychology is not involved in the approval of TOEFL waivers.

How do I check the status of my TOEFL scores?

Log in to your application account. It may take up to two weeks after submitting your application or sending the scores (whichever occurs later) for your official scores to show as received. Processing may be delayed or halted if the name or birthdate on the score report does not exactly match the information on your application.

Why does my TOEFL status show as “Not Applicable” even though I submitted a TOEFL score?

This may be because you listed English as your first language in the application. Please note that “first language” refers to your native language.

Is there a department code for ETS to use in order to send in my scores?

No, there are no individual department code. Use the Stanford University score recipient code  4704  to send your TOEFL scores.

Statements of Purpose

How long should my statement of purpose be.

We strongly recommend that your statement of purpose be around two pages in length.

What should I include in my statement of purpose?

Please consult the Stanford Graduate Admissions  FAQ page  for more information on the Statement of Purpose.

Letters of Recommendation

When are the letters of recommendation due.

The letters of recommendation have the same deadline as the rest of the application. This year, the deadline is  November 30, 2023.

How many recommendations do I need, and who should I ask to be my recommenders?

Applicants need three recommendations from faculty or others qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study. At least one evaluation and letter should be from a faculty member at the last school you attended as a full-time student (unless you have been out of school for more than five years). Substitutions for faculty recommendations may include work associates or others who can comment on your academic potential for graduate work.

My recommender will not be able to submit his/her letter by the application deadline. Will my application still be considered?

Letters of recommendation must be submitted by the application deadline. As such, we strongly encourage you to contact your recommenders directly to remind them of our deadline. If your recommender misses the deadline, please contact  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . Depending on the circumstances, Department staff may collect the letter via email and forward it to the faculty to add to your file. That said, the program expects applicants to do everything possible to ensure that letters are submitted on time via the secure online system.

Can my recommenders submit their letters via email, fax, or postal service?

No. Recommenders must submit their letters via Stanford’s online recommender system.

My recommenders are having technical difficulties with the online letters of recommendation process. Who should they contact?

Should any of your recommenders experience technical difficulties with the online letters of recommendation process, please refer them to our application database provider's letters of recommendation help page or have them submit a Help Request Form directly to our application database provider.

Additional Materials and Updates

I realized i made a mistake on my application and/or uploaded the wrong version of my documents. what do i do.

Depending on the timing and the nature of the error, our staff may be able to correct your application. Please send an email to  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . Include your full name, a complete description of the error, and attach the correct version of the file (if applicable). The Department reserves the right to decline to update your application after the deadline has passed. Requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

If you need to change your recommenders, please use the Activity Status Page. Note: The order of recommenders cannot be changed.

May I submit a resume/CV, list of publications, etc. as part of my application?

Applicants are permitted to upload one additional document to the online application, under the “Document Uploads” section.

Is there an interview process? 

Yes, our faculty interview prospective students before making final admission decisions. 

When are the interviews?

The interviews for the current admissions cycle are likely to be in February 2021. We anticipate that all interviews will take place virtually.

When can I expect to find out the decision on my application?

The Department of Psychology aims to issue all offers of admission to PhD degree applicants by the end of March.

I applied in a prior cycle and was not admitted. Can I apply again?

Applicants who applied in prior cycles and were previously not admitted are welcome to reapply if they can demonstrate significant progress made since they last applied. We encourage you to use your Statement of Purpose to explain this progress.

All documents must be resubmitted with a new application. We do not keep records from past applications.

I still have questions!

If you have questions that are not answered on this page or the Stanford Graduate Admissions  FAQ page , please email  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . If your questions are already covered on this page, your email may not receive a response.

Note that our Department staff are experts on the logistics and administration of the application, but do not answer questions related to research topics or faculty fit. Per Department policy, Department staff will not offer any evaluative feedback on application materials or applicants' academic background. Unfortunately, due to the extremely high volume of inquiries, we cannot provide individual status updates for applicants at any point in the process.

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Psychological Science Ph.D. Program

Program overview.

The department offers a Ph.D. in Psychological Science, with students specializing in one of 5 areas. Students are trained with a strong foundation in theory, research methods and advanced statistics, as well as in classic and contemporary issues relevant to their specific area.

Students collaborate with faculty on research from the very beginning of their graduate training and are encouraged to gain research experience with more than one faculty member. As student’s interests and skills develop, they pursue more independent research projects.

With 36 full-time faculty to serve as mentors for approximately 80 graduate students, our students enjoy the benefits of a program with an excellent faculty-to-student ratio and with a strong sense of community. Since students work closely with faculty throughout their graduate careers, they regularly have opportunities to co-author conference presentations, journal articles, and book chapters.

Ph.D. students select a primary (major) specialization in one of the following five core areas:

• Affective Science  (not admitting new students at this time)
• Developmental Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Social and Personality Psychology
• Clinical Psychology  (There is a different admissions process for this area. See below for information.)

Specialty 

• Psych and Law

​ For an overview of the curriculum please visit our program information in the UCI catalogue . Please see below for application requirements and instructions for non-clinical areas.

Program Learning Outcomes

Develop Knowledge of the Discipline

• Answer questions concerning history, principles, and theories in the student’s area of specialization (Social/Personality, Health, Development, or Affective Science).
• Discuss central concepts, principles, and ideas in their major area from a broad, historical perspective, including major theoretical constructs, and important emerging themes.
• Master current research within their own area of interest (social/personality psychology, health psychology, developmental psychology, or affective science).  

Research Methods and Statistics

• Master analytical and statistical techniques in psychological research.
• Identify appropriate methods and statistics to address different types of research questions.
• Ability to design studies in their research area.
• Communicate effectively to large and small groups in pedagogical settings in both lecture and discussion formats.
• Identify and effectively deploy suitable digital media for use in all aspects of instruction.
• Assess students effectively, including developing and using appropriate measures.

Scholarly Communication

• Structure a coherent academic argument that rigorously presents and evaluates evidence to support claims.
• Review and cogently synthesize relevant literature.
• Write in a level and style of English consistent with that found in leading academic journals.
• Understand and properly use styles of citing, referencing, and formatting found in psychological research outlets.
• Make clear and cogent oral presentations, including effective use of digital media.
• Cogently summarize their research and its significance for non-specialist audiences.

Professionalism

• Select appropriate conference venues for their research.
• Prepare a presentation suitable for a research conference.
• Prepare manuscripts that meet the standards of psychological research journals and respond appropriately to recommendations for revision.
• Select appropriate fellowship or grant opportunities and prepare competitive proposals.
• Make effective contributions to research teams and lab groups.

Independent Research

• Develop their own research projects that meet high standards of theoretical and methodological rigor.
• Produce scholarship that is comparable in scope and format to articles and books that appear in leading peer-reviewed journals and presses in the field of psychology.
• Supervise research assistants effectively.

Application Requirements for the Ph.D. in Psychological Science

Application requirements and deadline for the Clinical area can be found here. The application deadline for the clinical area is December 1st.

Applications for all other areas (Developmental, Health, Social/Personality) are due December 1st.  Psychological Science applicants will complete an online application  via SLATE. 

PLEASE NOTE - UCI has multiple psychology programs, be sure to select the correct program to avoid a delay in processing your application. If you are interested in Cognitive Neuroscience, please visit the School of Social Sciences.

Statement of Purpose  (essay format, 1200 words maximum)

In your statement of purpose, please describe your aptitude and motivation for graduate study in your area of specialization. We expect applicants to include:

• A description of your background, research experience, current and future research interests, future goals, and how you see yourself fitting in our department.
• The area of interest you plan to pursue (Developmental, Health or Social/Personality) and if you wish to pair an area of interest with a specialty in Psychology & Law .
• Name(s) of the faculty member(s) with whom you are interested in working and why.

Personal History Statement  (essay format, 1200 words maximum)

• Any educational, familial, cultural, economic or social experiences or opportunities relevant to your academic journey
• Challenges and/or obligations you have had to address in order to achieve your educational goals and how you addressed them
• Prior employment, as a student or as a working professional, that is relevant to your pursuit of a graduate degree
• Discuss any leadership roles or plans, outreach, or community service experiences and goals that have or will benefit others or the community
• How your perspectives, activities, or goals have or may contribute to inclusivity and/or broaden your understanding of the experiences of diverse groups of people

We expect applicants to include the following in the context of the above:

• Any experience(s) you have in advocating for diversity in organizations or communities of which you have been a member (3-5 sentences).
• Any significant challenge(s) you have faced and your ability to demonstrate resilience and achievement despite the challenges (3-7 sentences).
• Your interest in an academic career in teaching/research and/or other professional goals and interests you may have (3-5 sentences).
• GRE scores for the upcoming admissions cycle are optional.  We do not require applicants to our graduate program to submit a GRE score report as part of their application. Applicants may choose to submit GRE test scores, and they will be reviewed as one part of the application evaluation. Applications with GRE scores will not be given greater consideration than those without scores. For applicants who wish to include their scores to supplement their application, please note that the Educational Testing Service (ETS) code for UCI is: 4859. Please visit the  Graduate Division Website  for more information.

Transcripts

• Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended after high school. Applicants must upload unofficial transcripts directly into the online application.

Application Fee

• Fee waivers are available to qualified domestic applicants only. Eligibility to apply for a fee waiver is determined by program participation, US veteran status, or demonstrated financial need based on information requirements specified on the application.

Letters of Recommendation

• Three letters of recommendation . Paper letters will not be accepted. They must be uploaded digitally. These letters should speak to your academic and/or professional achievement, describe your strengths and weaknesses, and comment on your character, integrity and motivation are especially useful. Additional information regarding letters of recommendation can be found  here .

English Language Proficiency Requirement

• All graduate applicants, except those who have earned an undergraduate or master's degree from an institution at which English was the sole language of instruction according to the  World Higher Education Database , are required to demonstrate English proficiency for admissions consideration. If English is not the sole language of instruction listed or if no language is listed at all, the waiver does not apply and the applicant is required to take and pass an approved English proficiency test (TOEFL or IELTS).
• English proficiency for Teaching Assistantship - All international students, including those with Permanent Resident status, who wish to serve as a Teaching Assistant or Teaching Associate must pass an oral English proficiency exam approved by UCI. Exemptions to this exam are ONLY given to students who meet specific criteria listed on the  Graduate Division website for English Proficiency for Teaching Assistantships . For more detailed information on these exams of spoken English proficiency, including the respective passing scores, please review the  English Proficiency Summary Chart.

Program Duration

The normative time-to-degree is six years. 

Financial Support

We offer guaranteed support for the first five years of the program, which includes tuition, most fees, and a stipend. Funding  comes from a variety of sources, including  teaching assistantships ,  graduate student research assistantships , and  fellowships

Information Sessions

Online information sessions will be hosted by UCI Social Ecology representatives and are designed for prospective students to learn more about the Psychological Science Ph.D. programs, application requirements, tuition & funding. Archived information sessions and application workshop registration can be found here .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you would like additional information, please review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or contact us here.

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Ph.D. Program Requirements

Quantitative graduate program handbook.

This document outlines requirements for completion of the Ph.D. program in quantitative psychology. Students in the quantitative program are also subject to policies and procedures stated in the Graduate School Handbook and the Psychology Department Rules for Graduate Students. All graduate students in the program are responsible for being familiar with the applicable contents of these documents.

I. Choosing an Advisor

Each student in the quantitative psychology program will have an advisor with a primary appointment in the quantitative program. Initial matches will happen upon admission based on student interests and faculty availability.

Students are encouraged to work with more than one faculty member, and, if necessary, they are permitted to change advisors. The most appropriate time to change advisors is following completion of the Master's thesis, but changes may be considered at other times. A student wishing to change advisors should discuss the matter with both the current and prospective future advisor. Both the current and prospective future advisor must approve the change, and the Psychology Graduate Program Office must be advised of the change after it is approved.

II. Course Requirements

The overall program of study for each student is developed in consultation with the advisor. There are certain course requirements around which the program of study should be built:

A. Students entering the Quantitative program without a degree in Psychology should consider, in consultation with their advisor, completing Psychology 6809, Historical Development of Psychology. Because Psychology 6809 is not always available each year, students who intend to take this course should take the first available course offering.

B. The Psychology department requires completion of Psychology 6810 and 6811, the introductory graduate statistics sequence in psychology, for the Ph.D (see the Psychology Graduate Handbook). For the Quantitative area, these courses are required for the Master’s and will normally be completed in the first year. Students who enter the program with more substantial mathematics and statistics backgrounds, or who intend to complete a dual Master’s degree in Statistics and Psychology, are encouraged to satisfy the Psychology 6810/6811 requirement by substituting either Statistics 6301 and 6302 or Statistics 6801 and 6802. Whether or not a student should or is proficient enough to take these more advanced courses, is at the discretion of the student’s advisor. Similarly, if a student does not have sufficient background for Psychology 6810 and 6811, he or she should consult his or her advisor in devising a plan for remediation. Remedial courses will not satisfy the statistics sequence requirement for the department or for the Master’s in Quantitative Psychology.

If a student, together with his or her advisor, believes that his or her prior course work or experience is equivalent to either Psychology 6810 or 6811, he or she may substitute one or more of the Statistics classes listed above. Students should, however, consider that there are hidden benefits to taking the Psychology 6810/6811 sequence, including:

A unique opportunity to form relationships with other members of their cohort, including students outside their area of study whom they would not in other circumstances have had a chance to meet; An opportunity to refresh or broaden potentially rusty skills in a class that should not be very demanding if the student has already mastered the material; If the student is coming to psychology from another discipline, an opportunity to see how statistics are used in psychology and what kinds of statistics are most relevant to psychological research; and If the student is planning a career in academics, an opportunity to see how statistics is taught and to obtain a set of notes that can later be used in preparing his or her own course after obtaining a university position.

C. Graduate students in Quantitative Psychology should register for Psychology 7896 (the Quantitative colloquium series) every fall and spring semester. This course is an internal colloquium series in which faculty and students in the program give presentations on their work, and outside speakers will be invited as well. Each graduate student in the program is expected to give a presentation to the area at least once per year. It is assumed that each student will register for Psychology 7896 unless they are exempted by their advisor and the course instructor. Reasons for exemption usually involve scheduling conflicts with teaching and other courses.

D. Each student must also satisfy the course requirements for a concentration or minor program outside of Quantitative Psychology. A student may minor in another area of Psychology, or in another department, such as Computer Science, Economics, Mathematics, or Statistics. Specific requirements for a minor are defined by the specific program areas, but must include a minimum of two courses. Minor program requirements should be completed by the end of the third year of study. Students in dual Master’s degree programs are not required to complete an additional minor. Completion of a minor or a dual degree also satisfies the Psychology department’s breadth requirement.

E. Students who intend to complete a dual Master’s degree in Statistics and Psychology will be required to submit a dual-degree program plan approval form to the Graduate School. Per the Graduate School’s requirements, “A minimum of 50 percent of the hours counted toward the credit hour requirement for each degree must be unique to that degree and cannot be used for dual credit. The graduate studies committee may establish a minimum higher than 50 percent.” Pursuit of a dual degree must be approved by the advisor.

F. The Graduate School Handbook specifies minimum grade requirements for coursework. Students must recognize that expected performance in courses is substantially higher than those minimum levels. Because many of the courses offered by the Quantitative Psychology program attract substantial numbers of students from substantive programs in Psychology, Quantitative Psychology students will often constitute a small minority in these courses. The faculty expect that performance by Quantitative students in these courses will generally be superior to students from other programs. The grading scale for Quantitative students in Quantitative courses is viewed according to the following criteria: A = excellent; A- = minimum expected; B+ = below expectation; B = poor. These criteria will be taken into account during the annual evaluation of each student (see below). In addition, area faculty have the option of requiring additional work by Quantitative students in courses where Quantitative students are in the minority.

III. Masters Degree

All students in the Psychology Department are expected to obtain a Master's degree. Degree requirements in the Quantitative area are:

A. Completion of Psychology 6810, 6811, and four additional courses in the quantitative program. Note that students are required by the Graduate School to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours before obtaining a Master’s degree, so students need to take other graduate level courses to meet the 30-credit requirement.

B. Completion and successful defense of a Master's thesis. The purpose of the thesis is to provide the student with experience in conducting research and producing a research document. The topic for the thesis is developed through reading, research, and discussions with faculty, especially the advisor. The student prepares a research proposal, which is evaluated by the student's Master's Examination committee. Upon approval of the proposal, the student carries out the research, writes the thesis, and completes the Master's thesis oral examination. Students who have already carried out research may write their Master’s thesis on the completed work, pending approval from their committee. Students should reference the Graduate School Handbook for university requirements and deadlines.

C. The Master’s examination committee consists of at least three faculty members. Two of these faculty members must be from the Psychology department and at least two of the committee members must be graduate faculty. Further, the advisor must be category M or higher in the graduate program. The advisor serves as chair of the committee. If the advisor does not have his/her primary appointment in the Quantitative area, at least one other faculty member on the committee must have a primary appointment in the Quantitative area and must be able to serve as "co-chair" of the committee.

D. Students who enter the program with a Master’s degree in Psychology (or closely related field) from another university may waive Master’s degree requirements. To be eligible, the student must submit a copy of their Master’s (or other) thesis to the Quantitative area faculty for approval. If the thesis is approved, the student must, in accordance with department guidelines, complete a written first-year project to be kept on file with the Graduate Studies Committee. If the thesis is not approved, the student must complete a Master’s degree as outlined above.

E. Upon completion of the oral defense of the Master’s thesis, the Master’s examining committee, in consultation with the Quantitative area faculty, will recommend whether or not the student should continue in the program as a Ph.D. student. This recommendation will appear on the "Recommendation for Continuation" form provided to the Psychology department. Students who are recommended to continue may pursue candidacy.

F. The Master’s degree should be completed by the end of the second year.

IV. Candidacy Examinations

The candidacy exam is intended to evaluate students' mastery of significant knowledge and literature in the field, and to help students consolidate their knowledge and to prepare for dissertation-level research. The candidacy exam has both a written and an oral component. The written component includes a major area exam in quantitative psychology, and may include a component covering the minor program. The requirement of a written minor exam is left to the discretion of the minor program. The candidacy examination is normally completed during the third or fourth year in the program.

A. The candidacy committee consists of four graduate faculty members. Three of these faculty members must be from Psychology. The advisor must be category P in the graduate program. The advisor serves as chair of the committee and at least two committee members must have a primary appointment in the Quantitative area. If the advisor does not have an appointment in the Quantitative area, one of the Quantitative committee members must be able to "co-chair" the committee. One of the four graduate faculty members must be a representative of the concentration/minor program. A Graduate Faculty Representative may be assigned at the request of the student and the advisor.

B. The candidacy exam proceeds as follows:

• In consultation with the advisor and the candidacy examination committee, the student identifies several relevant topic areas of interest. These topic areas should represent depth within the student’s particular subfield (e.g., mixture modeling) as well as breath in related subfields (e.g., structural equation modeling, factor analysis, hierarchical modeling).
• The student develops a reading list covering these topics. The list could include important books, classic journal articles, and journal articles representing important lines of research in the area, including current research. The reading list must be approved by the members of the candidacy examination committee, excluding the minor area representative unless the minor area requirements state otherwise.
• The student is given time (at least two months, but not more than six months, to be negotiated with the advisor) to study the material represented on the reading list.
• At least three members of the candidacy examination committee shall write questions covering the topics on the student’s reading list. The advisor shall collate these questions and present them to the student at the beginning of the examination period.
• The student will have four weeks to answer the questions, spending approximately one week on the questions from each committee member, unless otherwise specified. Responses should be typed and can be submitted either electronically or as hard copy. Each committee member should receive the responses to all questions.
• About two weeks following the delivery of the written responses, the student will defend his or her answers in a two-hour oral exam.
• If the candidacy examination committee determines that the student’s performance on the exam is unsatisfactory, the student may be given a second opportunity to take the exam at the discretion of the candidacy examination committee. If a second opportunity is given, the second exam, which may consist of only the oral portion or both the written and oral portion, must be completed within two semesters of the unsatisfactory attempt. The members of the candidacy examination committee must not change except with permission of the dean of the Graduate School. In addition, the Graduate School will appoint a representative to be present at the second exam.
• Upon successful completion of the candidacy exam, the student is admitted to doctoral candidacy.

V. Ph.D. Dissertation

The Ph.D. dissertation represents the culmination of graduate training. The dissertation must show evidence of independent and original contributions to the chosen field of study. The doctoral student develops a research topic in consultation with the advisor. The student prepares a proposal of the research and submits that proposal to the dissertation committee, which meets with the student to evaluate the proposal. Upon approval of the proposal, the student proceeds with the research and writes the dissertation. Upon completion of the dissertation, a two-hour oral examination is conducted covering the dissertation research. Successful completion of the oral examination and approval of the dissertation document completes the requirements for the Ph.D. degree. Students who have already carried out research may write their dissertation on the completed work, pending approval from their committee.

The dissertation committee consists of at least three graduate faculty members, chosen by the student in consultation with the advisor. Three of these faculty members must be from Psychology. The advisor must be category P in the graduate program. The advisor serves as chair of the committee. At least two of the committee members must have a primary appointment in the Quantitative area. If the advisor is not a member of the Quantitative area, one of the Quantitative members must be able to “co-chair” the committee. A Graduate Faculty Representative will be assigned to attend the final oral examination.

VI. Progress and Performance in the Program

It is important for graduate students to understand the expectations regarding progress in the program, as well as other aspects of performance. Progress is defined in part by completion of degree requirements in a timely manner. Performance is judged using a variety of factors involving quality and effort in coursework and research activities. This section describes expectations regarding progress and performance, followed by an explanation of mechanisms for rectifying circumstances where progress and performance are not satisfactory.

A. Expected progress in the quantitative psychology graduate program is defined as follows:

• Completion of the Master's thesis prior to the end of the second year in the program;
• Completion of the candidacy exam prior to the end of the fourth year in the program;
• Completion of the Ph.D. dissertation by the end of the fifth year in the program.

Failure to meet these progress expectations may lead to poor annual review ratings (see Section E. below).

B. In addition to maintaining reasonable progress in the program, students are expected to exhibit an acceptable level of quality in their coursework and research activities. Performance will be judged based on course grades, as discussed in Section II.F above, mastery of relevant literature, and ability to conceive, design, and conduct research, as well as to produce professional written and oral reports of research.

C. There are a number of other activities that will be expected of each student. These expectations are associated with the significant role of research in Ph.D. training. A Ph.D. is a research degree, and students are expected to focus on current research in the field, as well as to develop their own research interests and abilities, and to gain the skills for presenting research results in oral and written form. During the first year it is expected that each student will join appropriate professional societies, and begin reading articles from relevant journals. During the first two years it is expected that students will begin to attend professional conferences whenever possible. Prior to taking the candidacy examination, each student will be expected to have (a) made at least one conference presentation, (b) submitted at least one manuscript for publication, and (c) worked on research projects with at least two faculty members. Conference presentations and journal submissions should be high priority activities at every stage of training, but especially for students beyond the candidacy examination. The degree to which students meet these expectations will be taken into consideration during annual evaluations.

D. In the spring semester each year, the faculty of the program will meet to evaluate each student. Following that meeting, each student will meet with his or her advisor to receive feedback on progress and quality of performance in the program, and to discuss plans for the subsequent year. Each student will be provided with a written summary of this evaluation.

This annual review will include a numerical rating of overall performance by the student, using the following scale: 5 = well above expectations; 4 = above expectations; 3 = meets expectations; 2 = below expectations; 1 = well below expectations. A rating of 3 should be considered as indicating minimally acceptable performance.

E. Inadequate progress in the program is defined as either (a) receiving an annual review rating of “1” or (2) receiving two consecutive annual ratings of “2.” A student failing to make adequate progress is considered to be “in difficulty” in the program. When a student is deemed as being “in difficulty,” the program faculty will notify the student by letter of his or her status and will specify conditions that must be satisfied, along with a time frame, for the student to be re-classified in good standing. This letter will be carbon-copied to the chair of the Graduate Studies Committee. If the conditions in the letter are not satisfied, the Quantitative faculty will meet to determine further action. Possible actions include not recommending the student for further financial support, termination of current support, or activation of the mechanisms to deny further registration as specified in the Graduate School Handbook.

F. A student has the right to appeal any performance evaluation and resulting action by the faculty following grievance procedures in the Department of Psychology Graduate Program Handbook.

VII. Students With Prior Graduate Training

For students entering the program with prior graduate training, some of the requirements stated above (e.g., course requirements, minor program requirements, thesis requirements) may be modified or waived. These modifications or waivers will be treated on a case-by-case basis. In addition, an individualized schedule of expected progress in the program may be established. Such students should discuss this matter with their advisor. The advisor will make a recommendation to area faculty, and the faculty will decide which requirements are to be modified or waived and will determine a schedule of expected progress in the program.

VIII. Outside Employment

For students holding half-time GTA or GRA positions, opportunities for additional employment should be considered very cautiously. If such employment would involve substantial commitments of time and energy, students are strongly discouraged from becoming involved. Such activity almost invariably results in severely impeded progress in the program. Students will not necessarily be discouraged from accepting limited additional employment. Such arrangements might include short term consulting projects, or continuing employment for a very small number of hours. Students are expected to discuss opportunities for additional employment with their advisor. The primary issue of concern in evaluating such opportunities will be the impact on the student's academic progress and performance.

IX. Summary of Required and Expected Activities

Coursework (not to exceed three graded courses per semester, except in extraordinary circumstances):

• Take 12 or more credit hours each semester, including the quantitative area colloquium;
• Psychology 6810 & 6811; OR
• For students who want more rigorous training in statistics: Statistics 6301 & 6302;
• For students who have substantial training in statistics and want to further their training: Statistics 6801 & 6802;
• Other appropriate courses in quantitative psychology;
• Possibly one or more courses in concentration/minor program.
• Join professional societies;
• Read articles from relevant journals;
• Begin involvement in research with advisor;
• Complete first-year project to be presented at quantitative area colloquium;
• Develop topic for Master's thesis project;

• Additional coursework in quantitative psychology, including seminars and appropriate courses for selected track of study;
• Additional coursework in concentration/minor program;
• Additional courses in Statistics, as deemed necessary.
• Complete Master's thesis project research;
• Write Master’s thesis;
• Defend Master’s thesis;

Coursework:

• Complete concentration/minor area course requirements;
• If applicable, complete last relevant advanced courses and seminars in Quantitative Psychology;
• Typically 0, 1, or 2 courses per semester in Year 3.
• Submit manuscript for publication based on Master's thesis, or some other research project, for publication;
• Make one or more conference presentations;
• Increase involvement in research projects;
• Work with more than one faculty member on research projects;
• Identify topic areas for candidacy examination and begin developing reading lists.
• If possible successfully complete candidacy examination

• Minimal coursework; advanced seminars only.
• If not yet complete, complete candidacy examination;
• Increase activity in research projects, conference presentations, and submission of papers to journals;
• Develop dissertation proposal and begin dissertation research.

• Coursework should be completed prior to the fifth year.
• Complete dissertation research;
• Write dissertation;
• Defend dissertation;

PhD in Psychology Further Your Understanding of Psychology

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Understand the Human Experience from a Biblical Worldview with an Online PhD in Psychology

Do you want to deepen your knowledge in psychology and use your research to contribute to the field of understanding human behavior? Liberty University’s PhD in Psychology can provide rigorous research training that can better prepare you for a career in academia and research. An online PhD in Psychology is ideal for students who want to bring new knowledge of human behavior to the field and find new ways to help people heal, grow, and thrive.

Liberty’s PhD in Psychology is designed to prepare you to evaluate research and to understand the truth about human behavior from a biblical worldview. Our mission is to  Train Champions for Christ , and we fulfill this mission by training professionals to use science and biblical values to understand the full breadth of the human experience. Our unique, biblically-based approach to this field can help prepare you to make a positive impact on those you work with.

With Liberty’s PhD in Psychology, you can take part in optional face-to-face on-campus intensives that will allow you to meet faculty and other students while you develop your professional and research skills.

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Psychology Degree?

Liberty’s online PhD in Psychology is designed to build on your previous study and experience in human psychology and develop you into a researcher and psychologist who demonstrates ethical and academic excellence while integrating biblical values into your practice.

Through this program, you will:

• Learn how an appreciation of biblical values enhances psychiatric practice by putting human value at the forefront of technique and theory.
• Develop a grounded critical approach to psychiatric research and theory while integrating a biblical worldview into approaches to current issues in psychology.
• Master psychiatric research and writing techniques that can establish your work in the study of human behavior.
• Complete dissertation research through your program with mentorship from your professors so that you have the option to present research at conferences.

Through this program, you will be encouraged to become a thought leader on a variety of topics related to the human experience. Our goal is to help you venture into the world of psychiatric research and practice and offer insights based on biblical foundations of truth that can help people heal and thrive.

Featured Courses

• PSYC 510 — Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology I
• PSYC 710 — Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview
• PSYC 716 — Theories and Research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PSYC 775 — Teaching of Psychology

Degree Information

• This program falls under the  School of Behavioral Sciences .
• View the  Graduate Behavioral Sciences Course Guides   (login required).
• View the  PhD in Psychology Dissertation Handbook
• The online PhD in Psychology is a non-clinical, non-licensure program.

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Degree?

To help you meet your educational goals in a way that fits your life, our online PhD in Psychology provides scheduling flexibility and keeps affordability in mind. Our PhD in Psychology’s online format allows you to take your classes from home without traveling to campus. However, this program still provides a community of psychology professionals and the ability to take optional intensive courses to allow you to connect in person.

Throughout this program, Liberty incorporates a biblical worldview into your instruction. This perspective in your research and practical training in psychology can help you develop professional and academic excellence without compromising an ethical appreciation for human life. Additionally, our caring faculty are devoted to helping you grow personally and academically.

With our online PhD in Psychology, you can learn effective clinical techniques, essential behavioral theory, and develop your research and writing expertise. You can be equipped with a thorough understanding of human thought and behavior while developing your own research to further the field.

Earning a PhD in Psychology online with Liberty means that you will be trained to engage with research and psychiatric practice critically and biblically. If you are interested in becoming a thoughtful, articulate, and research-focused professional, then this is the program for you.

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• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Potential Career Opportunities for PhD in Psychology Graduates

• Corporate psychologist
• Program or department head
• Project manager

Degree Options for Our PhD in Psychology Program

Focus your studies in psychology with a specialization.

Behavioral Health Leadership

Through the  PhD in Psychology – Behavioral Health Leadership , you can hone your research and leadership skills as you prepare to pursue administrative and management positions in mental and behavioral health organizations.

View the Degree Completion Plan .

Developmental Psychology

Through the online  PhD in Psychology – Developmental Psychology , you can learn about research theory related to human development, including cognitive development, social development, and language development.

General Psychology

The online PhD in Psychology – General Psychology provides an in-depth study of advanced psychiatric research and practice while giving you room to customize your course content.

Industrial/Organizational Psychology

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology  track, you will study human behavior in organizations and the workplace. You will focus on deriving principles of individual, group, and organizational behavior and applying that knowledge to developing solutions for challenges in the workplace.

Social Psychology

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Social Psychology  track, you can learn about research and theory related to social processes and relationships, attitudes, and other constructs related to social psychology.

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Theology  track, you can learn how to study the Bible and integrate that study of the Bible with research in psychology to further your understanding of psychological concepts.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for Our PhD in Psychology

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Contact information  for 2 recommenders is required (approved recommenders are the student’s former college professors or supervisors).
• Statement of Purpose  is required (1,000-1,500 words, double spaced).
• Departmental approval is required.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

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We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

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You can meet faculty and fellow students in person through optional on-campus intensives.

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Through your dissertation, you can contribute to the understanding of human experience and behavior.

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School of Psychology

College of sciences, search form, college of sciences announces new minors, ph.d. program and curriculum additions.

This fall, the College of Sciences will debut three new minors, a new Ph.D. program, and a new “4+1” B.S./M.S. degree program. 

The announcement follows curriculum updates for the 2023-24 academic year, including the launch of the Minor in the Science of Mental Health and Well-Being in the School of Psychology and the creation of three new bachelor of science degrees in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. 

“We are excited to announce these additions to the College’s portfolio of academic opportunities for our students,” says David M. Collard , senior associate dean in the College of Sciences and professor in the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry . “The updates reflect our College’s growth and respond to our students’ interest in pursuing advanced study.”

The additions for the 2024-2025 academic year include: 

“4+1” B.S./M.S. Degree Program

The College offers several options for undergraduate students to earn both a bachelor of science degree and a master of science degree as a part of a “4+1” program. Students may apply to the B.S./M.S Degree Program after being at Georgia Tech for about one year. This allows them to tailor their undergraduate and graduate academic requirements to complete both degrees in a timely manner. 

Computation and Cognition Minor 

The Minor in Computation and Cognition is a highly interdisciplinary program that combines advanced computational training with the study of human cognition. Students will learn about the computational mechanisms underlying human cognition and use computational methods to better understand human cognition. Established by the School of Psychology in collaboration with the College of Computing and with support from the Schools of Physics and Mathematics , the minor is open to all students starting this fall.

There are several new courses in the School of Psychology supporting this minor, including PSYC 4690 (Sensation and Perception: A Computational Perspective) and PSYC/PHYS 4745 (Physics of Cognition). These two classes are offered as special topics this fall but will have permanent course numbers in Spring 2025. More new courses in computation and cognition are planned for the next year and beyond.  

Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Ph.D. Program, Neuroscience Minor

The new Ph.D. and minor offerings build on the recently launched Neuro Next Initiative in Research and the Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience , respectively. 

The new Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Ph.D. Program is a joint effort across the Colleges of Science, Computing and Engineering. It is focused on educating students to advance the field of neuroscience through an interdisciplinary approach, with scientists and engineers of diverse backgrounds — ultimately integrating neuroscience research and technological development to study all levels of nervous system function. The program expects to enroll its first graduate students in Fall 2025.

Approved by the Board of Regents in 2017, the interdisciplinary B.S. in Neuroscience degree enrolled more than 400 undergraduate students in 2022, and has been the fastest growing undergraduate major at Georgia Tech. The Minor in Neuroscience is set to become available during the 2024-25 academic year.  

Quantum Sciences and Technology Minor

In response to the explosion of research, development, investment, and hiring in quantum information science taking place across academia, national labs, and private industry, the School of Physics is now hosting a new Minor in Quantum Sciences and Technology . 

Available starting this fall, the program is open to all students, regardless of major, who are interested in learning more about quantum information theory, applications of quantum information to measurement, quantum materials, quantum computation, quantum algorithms, quantum communication, or any other quantum science related topics. The coursework includes basic training in quantum mechanics and quantum information, and a choice of quantum-related electives in physics, math, chemistry, computer science, and electrical engineering. 

The minor was established by the School of Physics in partnership with the School of Mathematics and the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry in addition to the Colleges of Computing and Engineering.

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Doctoral Program

Human Factors (HF) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system and the application of theories, principles, data and other methods of design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance. We take that as our charge, and note that we are especially concerned with the interaction of humans with computer systems, a domain generally known as Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). Our program focuses on cognitive aspects of interaction (e.g., design of displays, procedures, and information) as opposed to physical aspects (e.g., design of keyboards and work stations).

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Primary contact: Mike Byrne

Master's Course Requirements

Please visit the Forms page to access the required paperwork to establish candidacy.

Required Core Courses

• PSYC 502 - Advanced Psychological Statistics I
• PSYC 503 - Advanced Psychological Statistics II

2 of the Following Courses are Required

• PSYC 520 - Foundations of Cognitive Psychology
• PSYC 540 - Foundations of Human Factors/Engineering Psychology
• PSYC 541 - Human Computer Interaction
• PSYC 609 - Methods in Human-Computer Interaction

Course Requirements for Provisional Admission to Master's Candidacy

Required before you can defend your Master's thesis:

• The 2 core courses.
• At least 2 of the 4 additional courses listed above.

Doctoral Course Requirements

Required Core Courses 1. PSYC 502 - Advanced Psychological Statistics I 2. PSYC 503 - Advanced Psychological Statistics II 3. PSYC 520 - Foundations of Cognitive Psychology 4. PSYC 531 - Weekly HCIHF Research Seminar (every semester) 5. PSYC 540 - Foundations of Human Factors/Engineering Psychology 6. PSYC 541 - Human-Computer Interaction 7. PSYC 609 - Methods in Human-Computer Interaction 8. PSYC 660 - Professional Issues

5 of the Following Courses are Required 1. PSYC 504 - Computer Applications in Psychology (or other approved programming experience) 2. PSYC 521 - Psychology of Perception 3. PSYC 522 - Information Processing & Attention 4. PSYC 524 - Memory 5. PSYC 525 - Psycholinguistics 6. PSYC 527 - Reasoning, Decision Making, Problem Solving 7. PSYC 530 - Foundations of I-O Psychology 8. PSYC 535 - Human Factors/Ergonomics 9. PSYC 543 - Computational Modeling 10. PSYC 581 - Vision Science 11. PSYC 601 - Multivariate Statistics 12. PSYC 602 - Psychometrics 13. PSYC 630 - Advanced Topics in I-O Psychology 14. PSYC 634 - Personnel Psychology 15. PSYC 640 - Topics in HCIHF (can be repeated for credit) 16. PSYC 662 - Non-Traditional Interfaces 17. PSYC 663 - Medical Human Factors 18. PSYC 664 - Usability Assessment 19. PSYC 667 - Cyber Security Human Factors 20. PSYC 668 - Human Factors of A.I.

The Many Benefits of Studying Psychology

How and why an understanding of psychology can be essential for anyone..

Posted May 18, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

• What Is a Career
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• Understanding the scientific method helps to make more informed decisions.
• Studying psychology helps better understand relationships in the home and at work.
• Contrary to popular belief, psychology can be a very employable college degree.

Even though psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate majors, many people question the benefits of a psychology degree. This is partially due to the fact that a career in the field of psychology typically requires a graduate degree. Yet, I am going to argue that there are many benefits to studying psychology that are beyond simply finding a rewarding career. Here are several:

A Good Understanding of the Scientific Method

Psychology provides a good grounding in the scientific method. Being a social science, psychology teaches us that rather than operating on our hunches or our own biased experiences, it is important to look for objective evidence to gain a better understanding. Psychology students learn that science strives to make informed decisions but also acknowledges that science is not “black and white” thinking. The scientific method relies on the ”best possible evidence,” meaning that as new evidence is gathered, conclusions may change.

We saw this at play during the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine skepticism. Rather than relying on the best possible evidence of the vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing serious illness and death, skeptics relied more on biased information from uninformed sources or from their own observed (non-scientific) experiences.

Critical Thinking

A great deal of psychological content, and the methods taught and used by psychologists, focus on how to think critically. Critical thinking is considered to be essential to being an educated person. These critical thinking skills can benefit a variety of careers in business, law, and other professions.

Understanding of Relationships and Psychological Well-Being

Although studying psychology doesn’t necessarily make you psychologically healthier any more than studying medicine makes you physically healthy, psychology majors do have this knowledge at their fingertips and should be more aware of the fact that good interpersonal and family relationships require attention and hard work. Psychology also tells us that when we are having difficulties in relationships or in coping with life, it is important to seek out professional help and counseling.

A Better Understanding of Workplace Dynamics

Studying psychology, particularly the area of industrial/organizational psychology provides insights into the world of work. Knowledge of psychology can lead to improved work relationships, and it can benefit professionally, as well. A knowledge of human behavior is one of the "selling points" for psych majors when it comes to gaining employment, and a knowledge of basic psychology makes you a more effective supervisor/manager

Improved Employability

Contrary to popular belief, psychology is a very good general major for careers in law, social services, education , business, and many other occupations. The trick is knowing how to “sell” your psychology degree and background to a potential employer (the employer may hold to stereotypes that psychology is an "empty" major without real skills). However, savvy employers (and savvy job applicants) know that an understanding of human behavior is essential to success in the workplace.

Ronald E. Riggio, Ph.D. , is the Henry R. Kravis Professor of Leadership and Organizational Psychology at Claremont McKenna College.

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What Can You Do With a Psychology Degree?

Author: University of North Dakota May 22, 2024

Psychology has taken center stage.

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With anxiety and depression on the rise —alongside the diagnosis of various mental health disorders such as ADHD, bipolar, and autism—psychology has taken a front-row seat. There are people discussing mental health in all spaces of life, be it mainstream media, movies, books, social media, and conversations between friends and family. 

This exposure, while enlightening, only scratches the surface of the diverse field of psychology, the scientific study of mind and behavior. Psychologists work across various environments and employ a multitude of methods to understand complex mental processes and behaviors. 

So, what can you do with a psychology degree? Well, given the vastness of the field, a degree in psychology opens up numerous pathways and roles, each offering unique contributions to society. Keep reading as we explore the numerous opportunities such a degree unlocks.

What is a Psychology Degree?

A psychology degree is centered on the intricate workings of the human mind and behavior. It aims to understand how and why we think and act the way we do. Common topics covered include cognitive processes, emotional and social dynamics, brain functions, and psychological disorders. 

Psychology career paths begin with a bachelor's degree as students are introduced to fundamental psychological theories and findings. Then, as students advance, they have the opportunity to specialize in more focused areas through graduate degrees or certifications, choosing paths like clinical psychology, forensic psychology, neuropsychology, or organizational psychology. 

Such advanced specializations enable graduates to apply their skills in various professional settings, including mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, corporate environments, and research institutions. Thus, a psychology degree provides a strong foundation for understanding human behavior as well as equips students with the versatility to pursue a wide range of impactful careers in both scientific and practical domains.

What Can You Do with a Psychology Degree?

To demonstrate the broad applicability of psychological principles across various domains and highlight the field's capacity to address diverse human needs through specialized knowledge and skills, let's examine some roles you can pursue with a degree in psychology. Each contributes uniquely to understanding human behavior and mental processes and directly impacts individual and community well-being.

1. Clinical Psychologist

Clinical psychologists are integral in mental health services, offering psychotherapy and behavioral interventions for mental illnesses ranging from depression to schizophrenia. As part of their work, they try to understand a patient's condition through psychological testing and crafting personalized treatment plans based on the results. 

Becoming a clinical psychologist requires a Psy.D. or Ph.D., followed by a supervised clinical internship of 1-2 years and successful completion of licensing exams. This extensive training prepares them to handle complex psychological issues in various settings such as clinics, hospitals, or private practice.

2. Counseling Psychologist

These psychologists perform many of the same functions as clinical psychologists but often deal with less severe psychological conditions. They focus on helping clients adjust to life transitions or cope with stress and anxiety, providing tools for personal development and better mental health management. 

Counseling psychologists work in diverse environments, including academic, health, corporate, and community sectors. To reach these professional environments, they need to have a license to practice, which typically involves obtaining a diploma from an accredited master’s or doctoral program in psychology, completing an internship, and passing state-regulated exams.

3. Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychological theories to organizations and the workplace to boost morale, increase productivity, and optimize organizational structure. They also engage in leadership development, training, policy planning, and recruitment strategies. Thus, these psychologists have an important role in society as they have the capacity to shape the way we work and interact during working hours. 

To take a role as an organizational psychologist, a master’s degree can be suffiecient. However, for higher-level positions a Ph.D. may be necessary.

4. School Psychologist

School psychologists are crucial in educational settings. They help students succeed academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. Moreover, they collaborate closely with teachers, parents, and administrators to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments. 

Typical tasks may include conducting psychological assessments, counseling, and designing educational and behavior management programs. School psychologists typically require an Education Specialist degree (Ed.S.), which consists of three years of graduate study and a one-year internship.

5. Forensic Psychologist

The work of such psychologists blends psychological practices with the legal and criminal justice systems. They assess the psychological state of individuals involved in legal proceedings, prepare psychological evaluations for court cases, and provide expert witness testimony. They may also work with offenders, providing rehabilitation programs or risk assessment. 

Forensic psychologists need a doctoral degree, specialized training in forensic psychology, and a state license to practice. In addition to psychological knowledge, their work often requires them to understand legal standards, making their role particularly complex. 

6. Health Psychologist

Health psychologists focus on how behavior and social context influence health and wellness. They work to improve patient outcomes through behavioral change programs, stress management techniques, and by addressing psychosocial factors that affect health. 

This role is key in chronic disease management, preventative healthcare, and system-level intervention to promote health at a community or population level. Practitioners usually need a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in health psychology, and many also pursue postdoctoral work to specialize further, mainly if they aim to provide clinical services where licensure is required.

7. Research Psychologist

Research psychologists play a significant role in advancing the understanding of human behavior and mental processes through empirical research. These professionals design and implement studies, analyze data, and publish results that contribute to the scientific foundation of psychology. 

They often specialize in areas like cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, or social psychology and find careers in academic settings, government research institutions, and the private sector. A Ph.D. in psychology is typically necessary to lead research projects and teach at the collegiate level.

8. Neuropsychologist

Neuropsychologists focus on understanding the relationship between the physical brain and behavior. They assess cognitive function, diagnose conditions, and treat patients suffering from brain injuries or neurological disorders. 

These professionals work in hospitals, clinical settings, and research facilities. To enter the field and achieve board certification, they must undergo extensive training, including a doctoral degree in neuropsychology or clinical neuropsychology, followed by a postdoctoral residency in neuropsychology.

9. Rehabilitation Psychologist

These psychologists focus on helping individuals cope with disabilities and chronic health conditions, aiming to enhance their functional abilities and quality of life. They assess psychological needs, provide counseling, and develop treatment strategies that promote personal and social adjustment. 

A doctoral degree in psychology, typically specializing in rehabilitation, is necessary, along with a clinical internship and licensure to practice independently.

10. Social Worker

Lastly, social workers support individuals, families, and communities to overcome life's challenges, such as poverty, abuse, addiction, and mental illness. They provide therapy and crisis intervention as well as connect clients with other resources to improve their circumstances. 

While closely related to psychology, social work emphasizes social systems and social change, focusing on direct community involvement. A degree in social work (BSW for entry-level positions and MSW for clinical roles) is required, along with state licensure to practice clinically.

Benefits of a Psychology Degree

One of the primary benefits of a psychology degree is the vast career opportunities discussed so far. However, a psychology degree also equips individuals with a skill set that encompasses skills highly valued in any profession, making psychology graduates well-prepared for challenges and leadership roles in their chosen fields. 

Additionally, careers in psychology can be incredibly lucrative and personally satisfying. Psychologists often work directly with individuals or communities to improve their mental well-being, providing a unique opportunity to make a tangible, positive impact on others' lives. This rewarding aspect attracts many to the field.

Is a Psychology Degree Worth It?

Absolutely, a psychology degree is worth it. In addition to the rewarding career paths it encompasses, which can profoundly impact people's lives, the degrees also provide a strong foundational skill set applicable in virtually every industry today.

With the growing recognition of mental health's critical role in overall health, the demand for trained professionals in psychology is high, ensuring that graduates find meaningful and stable careers.

The Bottom Line

So, a psychology degree opens a world of possibilities, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations. Whether your passion lies in understanding the criminal mind, assisting those in need of mental health support, or exploring the depths of human cognition, UND provides the perfect starting point with its Bachelor in Psychology . 

For those aiming to specialize further, UND offers advanced opportunities, including a master's in Forensic Psychology , Ph.D. programs in Clinical Psychology , Counseling Psychology , and General Experimental Psychology , as well as an undergraduate certificate in Forensic Psychology . Each program is designed to deepen your expertise and enhance your professional impact. At UND, you won't just be studying psychology; you'll be preparing to help others.

What pays the most with a psychology degree? ( Open this section)

While salaries can vary widely in psychology, the highest earners typically are found in specialized areas such as clinical neuropsychology or industrial-organizational psychology, where professionals can earn six-figure salaries. These high earnings often depend on factors such as the specific role, industry, and geographic location.

Does psychology require math? ( Open this section)

Yes, psychology degrees generally require some math, particularly statistics, to support psychological research and data analysis.

What is the hardest field in psychology? ( Open this section)

Clinical psychology is often considered one of the hardest fields due to its demanding nature, intense emotional engagement, and the extensive education required to practice.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist? ( Open this section)

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and tend to focus on biological factors of mental health conditions, while psychologists primarily provide psychotherapy and treatment based on behavioral interventions.

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• Universities /

Study Psychology at the University of Florida: Programs, Requirements, Ranking, and More

• Updated on  
• May 25, 2024

Do you want to bring a positive change in the mental well-being of society? If so, consider pursuing a University of Florida psychology course. The institute’s Department of Psychology is committed to the pursuit of excellence in the application and dissemination of psychological science. Located in Gainesville, Florida, United States , it is globally renowned for its high standards of education and research. So, if you aim to excel in the field of psychology, the University of Florida is the right institute to do so. Now, let’s discuss the psychology programs offered here. 

University of Florida Psychology: Overview 

The University of Florida psychology courses are designed to equip you with all the skills and knowledge required to excel as a psychology professional. With more than 1500 majors, psychology is among the most popular on the University of Florida campus. Faculty possess expertise in five different areas of specialisation, namely:

• Behavior Analysis, 
• Developmental Psychology, 
• Counselling Psychology, 
• Social Psychology,
• and Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience.

Also Read: University of Nottingham Courses: Fees, Masters, PG

University of Florida Psychology: Programs and Fees

The University of Florida’s psychology programs are offered at bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels. These degrees are renowned for their excellent curriculum and course structure. See these world-class courses along with their tuition fees below. 

See below the psychology courses offered at the bachelor’s level:

Master’s 

Here are the master’s in psychology programs at the institute:

The university’s psychology degrees offered at the PhD level are as follows: 

University of Florida Psychology: Requirements 

Before you apply for a University of Florida psychology course, make sure you are aware of its eligibility requirements. See below the criteria you must meet to be deemed eligible for a psychology program at the institute. 

• If you are applying for a bachelor’s level course, you must have completed your class 12th level education. In the case of a graduate-level course, you must hold a bachelor’s degree. 
• Moreover, you need a minimum GPA of 4.4 to 4.6 to secure your admission.
• You also need a score of 1360+ on the SAT (for a bachelor’s) and 465+ on the GMAT (for a master’s).
• Here are the English language proficiency test scores accepted at the university:

Application Process

If you fulfil the eligibility requirements for the University of Florida psychology, let’s proceed with the application process. Follow the steps given below to apply for admission to a psychology program at this institute. 

• Gather all the mandatory documents. 
• Now, apply via the Common Application if you want to enrol in undergraduate courses. However, for postgraduate degrees, you can apply on the official website of the university.
• Complete the application form, submit all the needed documents, and pay the required application fee. 
• Now, wait for the institute’s decision regarding your application. 
• You can check the status of your application on the UF admission page . 

Documents Required 

Here are the documents you need to submit during your admission process:

• Letter of Recommendation
• Statement of Previous Training and Preparation (for PhD)
• Statement of Purpose
• WES Evaluation
• TOEFL/IELTS Scores
• Official Transcripts
• Transcripts

University of Florida Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate of the University of Florida is around 23%, making it a very selective institute. This low admittance rate doesn’t come as a surprise, provided this institute is among the most prestigious and prominent globally. However, don’t allow the admission’s difficulty level to discourage you from applying. You can secure your admission at the University of Florida with the right approach and qualifications. 

Also Read: Strathclyde University Courses: Rankings, Admissions and Fees

The University of Florida Ranking

The University of Florida ranks at the top every year as per various global frameworks, reaffirming its eminence consistently. See below its rankings as per several popular ranking systems. 

Popular Scholarships

Studying in the US can be expensive for international students. If you are finding University of Florida psychology courses to be expensive, then don’t worry. The scholarships listed below can support you financially in your pursuit of education. 

Career Scope 

Completing a University of Florida psychology course positions you for a bright career in the field of psychology. See below some of the popular job roles you can assume after completing your studies. 

Relevant Reads:

Answer: Yes, it is renowned for its psychology programs that equip you with all the skills and knowledge needed to excel as a psychology professional.

Answer: Yes, the psychology major is among the most popular at the University of Florida.

Answer: The university’s acceptance rate is 23%, making it a very selective institute. However, you can gain admission here with the right qualifications. 

So, this was all about the University of Florida psychology courses. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad .

Abhishek Kumar Jha

Abhishek Kumar Jha is a professional content writer and marketer, having extensive experience in delivering content in journalism and marketing. He has written news content related to education for prominent media outlets, garnering expansive knowledge of the Indian education landscape throughout his experience. Moreover, he is a skilled content marketer, with experience in writing SEO-friendly blogs. His educational background includes a Postgraduate Diploma in English Journalism from the prestigious Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Dhenkanal. By receiving an education from a top journalism school and working in the corporate world with complete devotion, he has honed the essential skills needed to excel in content writing.

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