phd in psychology eligibility

Applying to Graduate School

Graduate psychology programs can have different admission requirements, training specializations, and financial resources. Find the program that is the best fit for you.

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FAQ: Graduate education

Find answers to commonly asked questions about pursuing graduate education in psychology.

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Learn more about how the advantages and disadvantages of online education in psychology.

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Finding fit: A roadmap to graduate school

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Researching psychology graduate programs

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List of all graduate psychology programs that currently accept PSYCAS applications.

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Becoming a psychological scientist

The application process for doctoral programs for psychological science has several steps. This eight-part video series offers advice for navigating the process, discusses important considerations for selecting a program, and highlights resources for funding your graduate education.

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Strategies for applying to psychology graduate school

Expert panelists discuss how prospective students can strategically approach the graduate school application process and highlight APA resources to help students find and apply to the program that best meets their professional goals.

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Preparing and applying for graduate school in psychology

This series of 12 videos takes prospective graduate students step-by-step through the preparation, application, interview, and admission processes. The presenters combine decades of advising experience and research findings with evidence-based and anxiety-reducing strategies for mastering each step.

APA publications

Own Your Psychology Major!

Psychology in Higher Education

Journal of Diversity in Higher Education

Training and Education in Professional Psychology

What Psychology Majors Could (and Should) Be Doing, 2nd Ed

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Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

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."

Doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. and Psy.D.) – everything you need to know in 2024

What’s in this guide, ph.d. or psy.d..

• Why get a doctorate in psychology?

Entry Requirements

• PhD in psychology jobs
• How long does it take to study?

How to choose a program

How much does it cost, earning potential , find your degree.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A doctorate in psychology is a terminal degree typically lasting 4-7 years. It prepares graduates for independent research, clinical practice, or university-level teaching careers in psychology.

There are many reasons you may want to pursue a doctorate degree in Psychology, the following guide will provide everything you need to know; from the options, costs, timeframes, career advantages and more.

First up, what are the two types of doctorate degree you can get and what are the differences?

The two doctorate degrees you can get in psychology are Ph.D. and Psy.D.

In simple terms, a Ph.D. in psychology is more research-focused, while a Psy.D. emphasizes clinical practice. The best choice between the two depends on your career goals and whether you prefer research and academia or direct clinical work.

Why study for a doctorate in psychology?

• Doctorate-level psychologists typically have higher earning potential compared to those with a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree in the field.
• Gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in your chosen area of specialization within psychology.
• Potentially make significant contributions to the field.
• Advanced career opportunities in various settings, such as academia, research institutions, government agencies, hospitals, and private practice.
• Connect with other professionals, researchers, and academics in the field of psychology, expanding your professional network

The minimum requirements to study a doctorate degree in psychology will vary from institution to institution. However, there are several common requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree:  all programs require applicants to have completed a  bachelor’s degree , in psychology or a related field. Some programs may accept candidates with a degree in another discipline if they have completed prerequisite coursework in psychology.
• Master’s degree : Some doctoral programs require applicants to have a  master’s degree in psychology  or a related field. Others may admit students directly from their bachelor’s degree and incorporate a master’s degree into the doctorate program.
• GPA : Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement, usually 3.0 or higher. Some competitive programs require a higher GPA.
• Letters of recommendation : Applicants typically need to submit letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to their academic and research abilities.
• Research experience : Prior research experience is often valued by doctoral programs in psychology. This may include experience working on research projects, completing a thesis, or participating in research internships or assistantships.
• Personal statement:  Applicants usually need to submit a personal statement or statement of purpose that outlines their academic and research interests, career goals, and why they are interested in the specific doctoral program.

Doctorate in psychology jobs

• Addiction Counselor
• ABA Therapist
• Mental Health Therapist
• Licensed Mental Health Conselor
• Licensed Professional Counselor
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Organizational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Research Psychologist
• Professor of Psychology
• Child Psychologist

*Outside of the licensed psychologist jobs listed above many of the above roles  do not require a doctorate but it is important to note that employers for these roles are increasingly favoring candidates with a doctorate. 

How Long Does It Take To Study?

For the majority of students, a doctorate in Psychology may take anywhere from 4-7 years to finish, which will include a research dissertation and most likely residency or an internship in clinical or medical environments.

By far and away the question our career coaches get asked most frequently about doctorate degrees is how to choose a program. The choice of institutions and programs is truly overwhelming.

Here are some key factors to consider:

• Accreditation – Ensuring the program is accredited by the American Psychological Association . Accreditation affects the quality of education you will receive, your eligibility for professional licensure, and your job prospects after graduation.
• Program Focus and Curriculum –  Different programs may emphasize various aspects of psychology, such as clinical practice, counseling, research, or specific subfields like neuropsychology or health psychology. Match the program’s strengths and curriculum to your career interests and goals. Investigate whether the program offers courses and training that are critical to your desired career path.
• Faculty Expertise – Look into the backgrounds and areas of expertise of the faculty within the program. Consider how these align with your research interests or the professional skills you wish to acquire. Having mentors who are experts in your area of interest can provide invaluable guidance and opportunities for collaboration.
• Research Opportunities – For those interested in research, evaluate the resources available, such as labs, funding, and support for attending conferences or conducting fieldwork. Check if the program encourages or requires publications and what kind of support it offers to achieve these milestones.
• Clinical Training and Internships – For clinically oriented programs, look at the quality and variety of their practicum and internship placements. These are often required for licensure.
• Funding and Financial Support – Understand the types of financial support offered by the program, including teaching and research assistantships, fellowships, and grants. Funding can significantly impact your experience by allowing you to focus more fully on your studies and research without needing to seek employment externally.
• Alumni Success and Networking Opportunities –  Investigate where alumni of the program are currently working. This can give you a sense of the program’s reputation and effectiveness in placing graduates in jobs. Additionally, networking opportunities through alumni networks, professional associations, and academic conferences can be critical for career development.
• Program Size and Student Support Services – Consider the size of the program and the ratio of faculty to students, which can affect the amount of individual attention and mentoring you receive.
• Location – Certain locations might offer better practicum, internship, and employment opportunities in your field of interest due to the presence of significant healthcare facilities, research institutions, or industries.

Depending upon the institution, method of study, location and type of program then you can expect to pay $25,000-$80,000 per year to study for a doctorate in psychology.

An online program would likely fall at the lower end of this range whilst an out of state student in a private university might expect to pay the upper end of this range.

Many psychology doctoral programs, particularly in research-oriented universities, offer funding packages to their students. These can include full or partial tuition waivers, health insurance coverage, and a stipend to help with living expenses

The average salary for an individual with a doctorate in psychology is $114,768.

Earning potential varies considerably by specialty, location and industry but we see roles requiring a doctorate advertised in the $80,000-$130,000 range.

• PhD in Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Educational Psychology
• PhD in Forensic Psychology
• PhD in Counseling Psychology
• PhD in Behavioral Psychology
• PhD in Child Psychology
• PhD in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Neuropsychology
• PhD in Sports Psychology

Psychology, PhD

Zanvyl krieger school of arts and sciences, program requirements .

The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences emphasizes training and experience in the research methods essential to the development of new knowledge in the various sub-fields of psychology. Our core program for doctoral students emphasizes scientific methodology and provides rigorous research training. Each doctoral candidate is expected to become familiar with both a relatively narrowly defined area and a broad spectrum of knowledge related to the student’s topic of specialization.

In addition to general university requirements, the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences has the following regulations:

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 AS.200.657 Advanced Statistical Methods during the first semester and AS.200.658 Advanced Research Design and Analysis during the second semester. Students with exceptional statistical training should take two more advanced courses by arrangement with the Director of Graduate Studies.  Students are encouraged to take more statistics, as appropriate.

Fundamentals and Core Topics in PBS

AS.200.613 Fundamentals of Biopsychology , AS.200.617 Fundamentals of Cognitive Psychology ,  AS.200.654 Psychological & Brain Sciences Core Topics A , and AS.200.655 Psychological & Brain Sciences Core Topics B  offer an introduction to the fundamental principles and methods of the psychological & brain sciences. Students will read seminal and contemporary papers in topics that cover the breadth of the field. In addition, students become versed in the careful consideration of data and in formulating written and oral arguments.

First-Year Research Report

During the first year, the student, together with the faculty advisor, identifies a research project that will provide extended research experience. Normally, the student designs a study as part of a larger ongoing project. A project proposal must be submitted by June 1 of the first year; this proposal introduces the nature of the scientific problem, reviews the relevant literature, and describes the proposed study in detail, together with the anticipated data, means of analysis, and interpretations. A final written version of this report must be submitted by December 15 of the student's second year; ideally, this "first year project" report includes all the information that would be appropriate for submission to a scientific journal.

Advanced Examination

The Advanced Examination is designed to assess expertise in the student’s area of concentration. This examination, which includes both a written and oral part, is graded by a committee of at least two faculty members. The written and oral portions of the advanced examination offer the student an opportunity to demonstrate both in-depth, focused knowledge in their specialty area of study, and also a breadth of knowledge outside of their area of expertise. The student must pass the advanced examination by the beginning of the third year of study.

Advanced Seminars

Advanced seminars are more specialized in content than a Core Topics course, but are still geared to students with interests both inside and outside the area.  Students are required to complete one advanced seminar outside their concentration area.  Completion of an additional advanced seminar is strongly recommended.

Topical Seminars

The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences offers topical seminars in which one or more faculty members leads seminars on topics of special interest, such as cognitive processes, developmental psycholinguistics, neuro-physiological aspects of behavior, mathematical psychology, and information processing. Through participation in these seminars, students are exposed to findings in subfields of psychology. 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.

Teaching Assistantships

Teaching experience is regarded as an important part of the graduate program, and graduate students are required to teach during their program. More details are available in the handbook.  The Department Chair, Director of Graduate Studies, Department Administrator, and Academic Program Administrator collaborate to assess the instructional support needs of the department and assign these teaching duties.

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.

Literature Review

Students complete a written literature review in preparation of the completion of their dissertation. The literature review is modeled on articles appearing in professional journals, and it should be suitable for publication in such a journal. Typically, the review provides a background for the thesis plan, but for some students it may be prepared on a topic other than the one selected for the thesis. The literature review is evaluated by the same committee that will evaluate the thesis plan.

Thesis Plan

At least one calendar year before receiving the Ph.D. degree, each doctoral candidate must develop a plan for the dissertation research and present the plan before a departmental committee.  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 the end of the fourth year.  Dissertation research cannot proceed until the Thesis Plan has formally been approved.  With the committee’s approval, the student then prepares a dissertation.

Dissertation

The dissertation represents the student’s culminating piece of scholarly work. It establishes the start of a research career and the basis for postgraduate employment. The Graduate Board of the University administers the final oral examination, a defense of the thesis. The doctoral dissertation must be in a form suitable for and worthy of publication.

Financial Support

Support for graduate students comes from many different sources. Domestic and international students in good standing can expect to receive tuition remission and a stipend.

Stipend support is competitive with that at other institutions and provides sufficient funds to live modestly. Stipends may come from research grants held by faculty members, allowing students to collaborate and be paid as research assistants. The university also provides funds for teaching assistants, as well as special fellowships.

All students are encouraged to apply for national awards, fellowships, and scholarships (e.g., NSF Graduate Fellowships). Our students have been remarkably successful at winning these honors.

The Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences is also affiliated with two diverse training programs supported by the Center for Hearing and Balance and the National Institute on Aging , including the NIA-supported training grant titled “Research Training in Age-Related Cognitive Disorders.” Qualified graduate students are encouraged to discuss relevant and appropriate training grant applications with their advisors. Stipend and tuition remission may be provided to accepted applicants through these and other training programs.

For further information on graduate study in psychology, contact the Academic Program Administrator for the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences .

Master of Arts in Psychology

A student who has been admitted into the Ph.D. program can earn a Master of Arts degree in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Ph.D. degree. Normally, candidates for the Ph.D. degree in psychology will qualify for the M.A. 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 M.A. level. There is no terminal master’s program.

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Please check out our  PRO-TiP  (PhD Resources and Online Tips Page)!  PRO-TiP provides easy and open access to resources that help demystify the process of applying to graduate programs in Psychology.

What kind of program does Harvard offer?

The Harvard Psychology Department offers a research-oriented Ph.D. program in four areas: Experimental Psychopathology & Clinical Science, Developmental, Social, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB). The Department does not offer a terminal master’s degree in psychology, though students admitted to the Ph.D. program can earn a master’s along the way. Some graduates of the program seek positions as research psychologists in an academic setting. Other graduates get positions in government, consulting firms, tech startups or larger tech companies, hospitals or social service agencies, and other network or private clinical settings.  The Department offers two tracks, Clinical Science and a Common Curriculum. The common curriculum is composed of three sub-fields: Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB). The Common Curriculum, described in the program section of the graduate program website ,   is taken by all students except those in Clinical Science. Though these area boundaries exist, collaboration is an important aspect of our academic community. As such, faculty and students collaborate within and across these area boundaries.

How do I get information about Harvard doctoral program admissions?

The Harvard Griffin GSAS Admissions website includes information about how to apply, required application materials, test score requirements, deadlines, and FAQs.  The application process is online .  This link connects you to the Psychology Program of Study page on the GSAS Admissions website. You can refer to our PRO-TiP page to find faculty answers to frequently asked questions.

Prospective applicants will want to read carefully about departmental faculty research interests   to decide whether this department is a good match. "Fit" of interests is an important criterion when the Department makes admissions decisions.

This list of theses and dissertations completed by current and previous students in the doctoral program may be useful in figuring out if this department would provide a good fit for your research goals.   

Do I need an undergraduate degree in Psychology to be eligible for the PhD program?

A psychology major is not required, but it is recommended that applicants take some basic psychology courses and obtain research experience. Admitted applicants have excellent grades, test scores, letters of recommendation, research experience and are a good match in terms of research interests with one or more members of the faculty, who serve as advisors.

Do I need to submit GRE scores, and how do I submit them?

*For Fall 2025 admission, the submission of GRE scores is required for applicants to the Clinical Science area and optional but recommended for applicants to the Social, Developmental, and CBB areas.*  GRE scores are valid for five years from the test date. If you have personal score reports available from tests taken within the last five years, you can upload them to your online application for consideration by the admissions committee. However, you will still need to ensure that  Educational Testing Service  (ETS) sends an official score report. Be sure to register for the tests well before administration dates and request that your scores be sent to Harvard University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences using code 3451 (department code is not required).

Does the Psychology Department offer a master's degree?

No, we do not offer a terminal master’s degree in psychology, though students admitted to the PhD program can earn a master’s along the way.   

How long does the program take?

Some students find four years is sufficient to complete the program, although most take five and a few take six years. Financial aid is generally offered for up to six years. 

Who may act as a PhD advisor?

Only tenure-track faculty members in the Department of Psychology may serve as primary advisors to PhD students in Psychology. Affiliated faculty cannot serve as primary mentors for PhD students. Students are welcome to form collaborations with affiliated faculty, but these individuals do not participate in our PhD program admissions.

Can I get training in clinical psychology at Harvard?

The Department offers a research-oriented program in Clinical Science. Our program was designed and is perhaps best suited for individuals who aspire toward careers in clinical scientific research and teaching. As compared with some more clinically oriented programs, we place relatively more emphasis on research training and experience in our program admissions and our training program for admitted graduate students. That said, the clinical training opportunities afforded by the program provide excellent training in clinical intervention and assessment as well. The Clinical Program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS).

Is there a part-time or distance learning option?

This is a full-time, in-person program. In unusual circumstances, the Department may grant permission for an enrolled student to temporarily register for a part-time schedule. It is required that students be in residence for at least two years in the program, and almost all students are in residence for the entire program. It is possible to receive permission to be a "traveling scholar" and do research or writing away from Cambridge, but this is most typical for students at an advanced stage of the program who have finished data collection. There is no online or distance-learning program.

Can I apply if I already have a master's degree?

Yes. Students that have completed prior graduate work can petition, after a semester of satisfactory work in the Department, to receive credit for up to eight relevant half-courses, the equivalent of a year's worth of work. However, many students in the program don't bother to apply for this credit since it is rare for a student to be exempted from any courses required by the department. In addition, the bulk of time in the doctoral program is spent on research projects, and the department very rarely exempts students from these. Even students coming in with a master's degree take between 4-6 years to complete the program, though an incoming student with more education may naturally be more focused at an earlier point in their program. By the time a student has finished all requirements for the doctorate, including research requirements, they will have many more than the required minimum number of credits.

Is there financial aid available?

Funding is in the form of grants in the early years and teaching or research fellowships in later years. Typically all admitted students are offered a funding package consisting of up to six years of full tuition, three years of living stipend, and two years of guaranteed teaching fellowships (which would provide a similar level of living support). Additional teaching is usually available in the fifth year. Both international and U.S. applicants are eligible for this financial package. Because funds are limited, applicants are urged to apply for any outside fellowships they may be eligible for.  NSF graduate fellowships  and those from the  Department of Defense  are examples of national fellowship competitions open to U.S. citizens. There are also the  Ford Foundation Fellowships , available specifically for URM scholars.    Receiving an outside fellowship may allow you to have a higher stipend, to decrease your teaching commitment or to have an additional year to complete your degree. Receiving an outside fellowship is also a professional honor that will help you in applying for jobs after graduate school.  

How can I maximize my chances of being admitted?

We use a holistic approach in evaluating applicants and admitting graduate students to the program. Among the factors considered are grades from undergraduate coursework, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, application essays, prior research experience, and focused research interests, with an emphasis on those that are compatible with those of faculty members. The department is also actively committing to building an inclusive field. Part of that commitment is prioritizing diversity and support for diverse individuals within our own department.

While we do not require an undergraduate concentration in psychology, 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.

Candidates’ research interests and compatibility with the program are determined in large part by the candidate's application essay, the Statement of Purpose. Here is some advice from a professor for writing a good application essay:

Over the past 12 years, I have been reading graduate school admissions’ essays. These include essays from students applying to work with me as well as those from my own students who are preparing to apply to other graduate programs. When my own students apply to graduate school, I give them very specific advice about the nature of the essay, what I think most candidate schools and advisors are looking for. I have always had a particular view about what makes for a good read , of course from a personal perspective. I have been struck by the fact that many of the incoming essays lack the kind of content that I am looking for, having the appearance of an undergraduate application essay. This seems unfortunate because I often use the essay more than almost anything else to get a sense of the applicant’s intellectual potential and passion. Many students that apply have stellar GPAs and GREs, but only a few present carefully reasoned essays that really motivate the reasons for going to graduate school. In essence, essays that capture my attention are ones that develop ideas, propose experiments, point to holes in the literature, and do these things with passion and excitement. These very general comments, which will certainly not capture every advisor’s perspective, or even the majority, can be distilled to a few essential ingredients, presented below as questions:

• Why continue on with your education? Why do you need to learn more? What skills, theories, and knowledge do you lack?
• What are the kinds of discoveries and theories that sparked your interest in the chosen discipline?
• In graduate school, what kinds of questions do you hope to address? Why do you think that these questions are important? Given the set of questions that you will focus on, what kinds of methods do you hope to apply? What skills do you bring forward as you enter graduate school and which skills do you hope to acquire?
• What holes do you see in the current discipline [big picture stuff]? In what ways do you think that they can be addressed during your graduate career?
• What kind of graduate environment are you looking for? Are you particularly keen on working with one faculty advisor, and if so, why this particular person? If you are leaning more toward a cluster of advisors, as well as the department more generally, why? Hint: faculty are engaged by students who have read some of their work, have thought critically about it, and wish to develop some of the issues addressed. Further, it helps with admissions to have one or more faculty championing your case.

Essays that have the above ingredients are truly informative. They tell each faculty member why the candidate wants to go to graduate school, what problems they hope to tackle, what skills they bring, and which skills they hope to acquire. Following this format is, of course, not a ticket of admission, but it will certainly make your application more interesting and informative.

More information from faculty in this program can be found on our PRO-TiP page .

Can I take courses without being admitted to the degree program?

The only way to take Harvard FAS courses, unless you are enrolled in another Harvard graduate program or MIT, is to be admitted as a  Special Student , which allows you to take between one and four courses a semester. Foreign national students  have  to take a full-time load in order to get a student visa. Students are issued a transcript, but no degree or certificate, for their work in the Special Student program.

Admitted Special Student applicants should be aware that the Department does not have the resources to provide the same support, academic and otherwise, to Special Students as it does to PhD students. Special Students are not assigned advisors, office space, research space, research funds, financial aid, library keys, or computer lab accounts. They are restricted from taking the Department's proseminar (PSY 2010), and other courses at the discretion of the instructor. 

Many Special Students hope eventually to enroll in a psychology graduate program; some plan to apply to Harvard's Ph.D. program. However, applicants should consider the Special Student year an opportunity to take courses, rather than a way to get an early start on the PhD program. While Special Students are certainly eligible to apply, potential applicants should be aware that admission as a Special Student does not guarantee admission to the PhD program. Special Students who are later admitted to the doctoral program receive credit for appropriate graduate-level courses taken during the Special Student term(s).

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Doctoral Admissions

We are glad that you are considering our program for your doctoral training. We have a group of faculty, students, and staff dedicated to performing rigorous and meaningful research, and are always looking to add engaged new students to our community.

The Department of Psychology offers a course of study leading to a PhD in Psychology. Doctoral study typically spans five years and includes a common curriculum of eight courses with other requirements set by the student's area of specialization. In addition, each student will complete a trial research project under the guidance of a faculty advisor or advisors and complete a dissertation. Advisors are a critical component of students' experience in the doctoral program, providing guidance and collaboration in conducting research and academic advising. Students receive practical pedagogical experience, usually through completing five teaching assistantships. 

As you make a decision about where to attend graduate school, we encourage you to explore the five research area specializations and the research programs of the individual faculty in our department. The PhD program in Psychology is not a clinical or counseling training program, and the program does not offer online or part-time study. Enrolled students in the Division of Social Sciences receive a financial package that includes tuition, the graduate student fee, student health insurance, as well as a stipend for living expenses.

The Department of Psychology does not have a terminal Master’s degree program. However, the Division of the Social Sciences offers two Master’s degrees that may be of interest to prospective psychology students. The Master of Arts Program in the Social Sciences (MAPSS) allows for a concentration in psychology. The MA in Computational Social Science provides the ability to tailor your coursework to your academic or professional interest.

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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 the 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 2025 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.

Personal Statement

Standardized tests.

GRE General: Optional for Cognition, Brain, and Behavior, Developmental, and Social Psychology. Required for Experimental Psychopathology and Clinical. GRE Subject: Optional

Theses and Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Psychology

See list of Psychology faculty

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Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

Program description.

The PhD program in psychology is an experimental psychology program that prepares students for leadership roles in research and teaching. Our program offers training in developmental, cognitive and social/personality psychology with an emphasis on interdisciplinary research and tailored training experiences that adapt to the specific needs of each student.

The PhD in psychology requires 75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree. For complete admission and degree requirements, view the Graduate Catalog at  catalog.utdallas.edu .

Career Opportunities

Our graduates seek faculty positions at both research-intensive universities and smaller teaching institutions, as well as in hospitals, school systems, research institutes, not-for-profit organizations and private sector; and professors in private or public colleges and universities.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Requirements

Degree requirements:  The psychology admissions committee evaluates applications according to a variety of criteria, including official transcripts, GRE scores, three letters of reference from people qualified to evaluate your potential for successful doctoral study, and a statement of purpose detailing your previous research and professional experiences, your current research interests, and your career goals.

GPA:  Required

Test score required:  Yes

Both GRE math and verbal scores are required to be considered for admission.

Admissions essay required : Yes

Deadlines:  University  deadlines  apply.

Contact Information

Karen Rodrigue Email:  [email protected] Phone: 972-883-2697 Office:  JO 4.310

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PhD in Clinical Psychology

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Fielding’s doctoral program in Clinical Psychology is accredited by the American Psychological Association. It is the only distributed learning program accredited by the APA. The Psychology PhD serves adults, many of whom who have trained or worked in the mental health field. Our unique distributed learning model blends the best of in-person learning opportunities with digital formats.

Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation: Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 / E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

For questions regarding the Clinical Psychology PhD Program contact [email protected].

About the Clinical Psychology Program

Application requirements.

Earning your doctorate in Clinical Psychology includes online and in-person seminars, meetings with faculty and other students in your region, weeklong residential sessions, as well as research and clinical training experiences.

The unique mix of online and residential learning provides flexible opportunities for individuals with career, family, and community responsibilities to achieve their advanced educational goals. Faculty are active scholars and practitioners with a wide variety of expertise, making it possible to offer training in a variety of therapeutic orientations and specialized concentrations in some of the most exciting growth areas of psychology.

• Conferred Bachelor’s Degree
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Online Application Form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose
• Critical Thinking Writing Sample
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Official Transcript
• No GRE Required

Start your application NOW!  

Apply now for fall 2025, student admissions, outcomes, and other data.

In accordance with requirements of the American Psychological Association (APA), Fielding Graduate University provides Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data pertaining to the education of our graduate students.

The Fielding Experience

• Become a member of a dynamic and diverse community of colleagues
• Interact with and learn from our expert faculty located all across the country
• Attend monthly professional development seminar in your geographic area
• Engage with alumni, faculty, and other students at sessions

Mission & Aims of the Program

Fielding’s APA accredited Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program is strongly aligned with the university’s mission to create a more humane, just, and sustainable world, and the university’s values that include academic excellence, community, diversity, and social justice.

Consistent with these values, a core mission of our program is to foster the inclusion of students from under-represented populations. These populations include students living in small communities, rural, or remote locations of the United States, students currently in the military or spouses of military members, adult learners with families, and students whose ongoing participation in their current communities cannot be halted for doctoral study elsewhere. These are student populations who are often unable to enter the field through preparation at a traditional university campus, yet these are the future psychologists for which the discipline and profession have expressed an urgent need.

In addition, our program aims to graduate entry-level scholar-practitioner psychologists who bring social justice values to their work as licensed health service professionals. Consistent with this overarching aim, we have four specific aims for our students, which must be achieved by the time of graduation.

• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level discipline-specific knowledge that represents the scientific and theoretical knowledge areas of the discipline of psychology (i.e., history and systems of psychology and the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social bases of behavior).
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level conceptualization, evaluation, analysis, and integration of discipline-specific knowledge across the curriculum.
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level ability to understand and critique research; design, conduct, analyze, and communicate theoretically informed research; and conduct research in a manner that is culturally sensitive and consistent with legal code and ethical standards, including the APA ethics code.
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level competence in the profession-wide competencies, including conducting an evidence-based diagnosis, assessment, and psychotherapy; and applying theory and research to develop case conceptualizations, treatment plans, and interventions that are consistent with legal and ethical standards and individual and cultural diversity factors.

Serving adults, many of whom have trained or worked in the mental health field, our unique distributed learning model blends the best of face-to-face learning opportunities with digital formats.

Faculty are active scholars and practitioners with a wide variety of expertise, which allows us to offer specialized concentrations and training in a variety of therapeutic orientations.

Geographic Eligibility

The program only considers applicants who reside in the contiguous United States and Canada. The program is not available to those residing internationally (except Canada). Applicants from Alaska and Hawaii may be considered pending confirmation of their ability and resources to attend local professional development seminars in contiguous U.S. on a regular basis, access to acceptable practicum training sites, and ability to relocate for internship. (Contact [email protected] to be put in touch with the Program Director for consideration prior to applying.)

Due to state licensing requirements, graduates of the program are not eligible for licensure in Oklahoma. For licensure information on your particular state of interest, please visit our Professional Licensure page [CLICK HERE].

School of Psychology News

The latest news, announcements, and special events from Fielding’s School of Psychology.

Dr. Lauren Mizock Appointed 2024-25 Ruthellen Josselson Chair in Qualitative Inquiry

By Kaylin Staten | 2024-07-08T11:18:31-07:00 July 8th, 2024 |

Fielding University Press’ Struggling with Infertility Explores Devasting Effects of Infertility

By Kaylin Staten | 2024-05-10T07:48:56-07:00 May 10th, 2024 |

AWC-SB Honors Four Leaders in Education at Fielding Graduate University Sponsored Women of Achievement 2024 Awards Luncheon

By Fielding News | 2024-05-09T08:50:53-07:00 May 9th, 2024 |

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Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

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SDSU / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology

About the Program

The program provides outstanding education and training to scientifically oriented research professionals who will make significant contributions to clinical psychology in their areas of specialization. The program combines the scholarly resources and offerings from the Department of Psychology in SDSU’s College of Sciences and the Department of Psychiatry in UC San Diego’s School of Medicine.

As a clinical science program, we emphasize integrating research and practice in training, activities, and experience, allowing students to participate in clinical research activities throughout the program. The development of research skills and attitudes is the foundation of training; clinical psychologists will have duties encompassing teaching, research, diagnosis, treatment, consultation, and program evaluation and design, including applying research skills and knowledge to various areas and settings. Our doctoral program enables students to be at the forefront of developments and applications in clinical psychology.

The program includes an initial two-year core curriculum of formal instruction followed by additional experience/instruction in the student’s chosen major area of study. The SDSU/UC San Diego JDP in Clinical Psychology curriculum is based on a twelve-month academic year. Students typically complete the program within five to six years, including an American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited internship.

Completion of the core curriculum ensures that all students have a common background in:

• Empirical psychology (biological, cognitive, affective, developmental, and social bases of behavior).
• Conceptualizations of psychopathology.
• Theory and techniques of psychological assessment.
• Therapeutic interventions and therapeutic skills.
• Experimental design and statistics.

Clinical activities, integrated with formal instruction, begin in the second year. Students will acquire higher clinical proficiency through practicum placements at nearly 30 training sites supervised by SDSU/UC San Diego joint-doctoral faculty representing research and clinical expertise in virtually every topic relevant to clinical psychology.

Major Areas of Study:

Specialized training is conducted through seminars, tutorials, and extensive research and clinical experience under faculty supervision. The APA-accredited clinical internship typically occurs in the fifth or sixth year. Whenever possible, clinical practica and therapeutic activities are coordinated with the student’s progression through courses and research activities. Summers are utilized to offer more concentrated research and clinical training.

For more information about the three areas, visit our Major Areas of Study page.

Program History

The SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology began in 1985, was first accredited by APA in 1990, and has been reaccredited consistently since then. Since 1949 and 1964, SDSU and UC San Diego, respectively, have been regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission . In addition, the School of Medicine at UC San Diego is accredited by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) .

The program emphasizes and appreciates broadly defined human diversity and offers extensive opportunities for students to become involved in research and clinical activities focused on diverse, underserved populations.

Recently, rankings calculated by the National Research Council (NRC) placed the SDSU/UC San Diego joint doctoral program among the top five psychology programs in the country, regardless of whether they were clinical or nonclinical. Similar rankings have been reported by Academic Analytics in 2010 and by Stewart, Roberts, and Roy (2007).

This program is a good-standing member of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology (CUDCP), the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (APCS), the Council of Clinical Health Psychology Training Programs (CCHPTP), and the Association of Psychology Training Clinics (APTC). These organizations strive to provide quality education and training at the doctoral level, ensuring the doctoral program stays abreast of changes and developments in the field. 

Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 E-mail: [email protected]

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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology Top Colleges, Syllabus, and Salary, 2024

Sushil Pandey

Senior Content Specialist

Ph.D. in Psychology is a 3-year full-time doctorate degree in Psychology. In this 3-year program, aspirants learn a total of 9 subjects, 3 in each year. The course mainly focuses on the clinical psychology part and explores the various psychological treatments and methods

The candidates are required to pass their postgraduate degree in psychology with a minimum score of 55% or equivalent marks from a recognised university. Admission to the course is done on the basis of an entrance examination or merit list. Some such exams held in the country are RAT (Research Aptitude Test) and JRF (Junior Research Fellowship). 

The total course fee for the program varies between INR 20,000-INR and 1 Lakh. The top Ph.D. Psychology Colleges in India are Amity University, Lucknow, Banaras Hindu University, Awadhesh Pratap Singh University, etc.

Candidates after passing the course are hired in various job profiles such as professors, Clinical psychologists, Educational psychologists, lecturers, etc. The average salary after the completion of the course ranges between INR 1.8 to INR 6.8 LPA.

Table of Contents

• Course Highlights
• About Ph.D. in Psychology

2.1  Why Study PhD in Psychology?

2.2  Who Should Study PhD in Psychology?

Ph.D. in Psychology Admission Process

3.1  Eligibility

3.2  Admission 

3.3  Entrance Exams

Ph.D. in Psychology Syllabus

• Ph.D. Psychology Distance Learning

Ph.D. in Psychology Top Institutes

• Ph.D. in Psychology Abroad

7.1  USA

7.2   UK

7.3  Canada

7.4   Australia

• Ph.D. in Psychology Jobs and Salar
• Ph.D. in Psychology FAQs

Ph.D. in Psychology Course Highlights

Tabulated below are some of the major highlights of the course.

Ph.D. in Psychology: What is it About?

• Psychology as an academic discipline encompassing a wide range of studies including attention, perception, comprehension, emotions, intelligence, personality, relationships, behaviour, and even the subconscious. 
• Psychology is the study of the mind and behaviour. 
• Psychologists examine both individual behaviours and the behaviour of groups, working towards understanding human activity, treating mental disorders, and counselling people to help them achieve emotional stability.
• Being concerned with social behaviour, Psychology in many ways is related to the social sciences and humanities, such as Anthropology and Philosophy. 
• They use similar research techniques as these disciplines, including conducting interviews and observing behaviour. 
• Psychologists assess behavioural and mental function and well-being, and study how human beings relate to each other and also to machines, and work towards improving such relationships.

Know More About: Psychology Course

Why Study PhD in Psychology?

There are various reasons as well as advantages for which one can pursue PhD in Psychology. Check them below.

• Good Compensation: After completing the PhD course the candidates will be able to earn anything between INR 1.8 to INR 6.8 Per annum. Apart from that the candidates will be able to gain bonuses and other perks that includes provident funds, DA, retirement benefits as well as medical insurances. 
• The highest qualification in the field PhD is the highest degree a person can attain. Pursuing a PhD in Psychology will make the person highly knowledgeable in the field. The candidates after attaining the PhD Course will be able to help individuals recover from stress or have a deeper understanding in the individual psyche as well as the underlying problem.
• Research and Development - PhD enables an individual to research and execute continuous study in the field which he pursues. Having a doctorate program in Psychology will help the individual to research and continue studying various aspects of the subject matter such as mental stress, self confidence, decision making procedure and many more.
• Choose from various specializations - You will get a variety of fields to execute your specialization on, if you want to pursue PhD in Psychology. This includes - Neuropsychology, Sports Psychology, School Psychology, Engineering Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Social Psychology, Human Factors Psychology, Educational Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Health Psychology, and Developmental Psychology.
• Start Your Own Practice  - A PhD in Psychology degree will also help you to practice on your own. You can open your consultancy , and start practicing. A Psychologist can earn anything between INR 500-INR 2000 for each session. .

You can help individuals recover from their mental issues - The greatest reason for which you should pursue a degree in Psychology is helping others recover from their mental issues. You can assist individuals who go through several mental problems such as anger, stress, mental fatigue as well depression. Aspirants can listen to them, and suggest effective methods to deal with it.

Who Should Study PhD in Psychology?

• Candidates who already have a postgraduate degree in Psychology such as MA Psychology , MSc Psychology should pursue this course.
• Candidates who want to pursue a career in research and development should undertake the PhD in Psychology Program.
• Candidates who have the desire to pursue the career of professor or associate professor in psychology should take up the course. 
• Candidates who have interest in understanding the psychology of criminals should take up the course.
• Candidates who wish to turn entrepreneur and start with their own practice should take up the course
• Also, candidates having a knack in psychology from childhood should certainly pursue the course, to fulfil their dream.
• It is good if a candidate pursuing PhD in the Psychology field has someone in his home who is an expert in his field. A PhD degree needs a lot of guidance as well, and it would be easier if the candidate finds someone like that in his home.

Admission to the course in India is done on the basis of the candidate’s performance in a relevant written test and/or a round of Personal Interview and/or performance in a relevant qualifying examination. Candidates are shortlisted based on both academic record and performance in a relevant nation-wide screening test, such as:

• RAT (Research Aptitude Test)

JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) through UGC NET

Ph.D. in Psychology Eligibility

Aspiring candidates for Ph.D. in Psychology program need to meet the following minimum eligibility criteria:

• Postgraduate degree in Psychology, completed from a recognized institute/university
• A minimum aggregate score of 55% (50 % for SC/ST candidates) or equivalent grade at the level of post-graduation
• At least 5 years of teaching/ industry/ professional experience at a senior level
• In some cases, M.Phil. in Psychology is also preferred

PhD in Psychology: Admission 2024

The following are some of the steps that the candidates can follow in the case of the admission process 

• Candidates have to register themselves first in the official website of the college or the Entrance exam board. The candidates must look at the eligibility criteria and look at the various entry methods.
• The candidates are required to fill in their application form as per the detail required and upload the documents in the format prescribed by the authorities.
• Candidates are required to submit the application form and pay the application form fee and take out the receipt for future reference.
• In the entrance exam, they need to score more than the cut off marks, to qualify.
• Post qualifying the entrances, candidates need to fulfil the eligibility as per the guidelines of that particular college.
• Final selection will follow candidates' performance in the interview and their research proposal .

PhD in Psychology: Entrance Exams

There are multiple entrance exams, which the students can crack to get permission for admission for pursuing PhD in Psychology, Check them below.

A year-wise breakup of the course’s syllabus is tabulated below.

Ph.D Psychology Distance Learning

The candidate has the option to Study PhD in Distance Mode. Let us understand about the distance admission mode for the PhD Distance Learning mode with a bit more detail

• As of now PhD Psychology in Distance mode is available in India only from IGNOU 
• The duration of the course is for a period of 3 years, however, the course can be stretched over a period of 6 years.
• The course is accepted by the distance education Board of India and the UGC. 
• The course fee is INR 16,800.
• The admission is based on a national level entrance examination conducted by the IGNOU.
• The candidates should have completed their masters in required stream with a minimum score of 55%.

The candidates from the reserved categories are allowed a relaxation of 5%.

Some of the top institutes offering the course in the country with the corresponding locations and fees charged by the respective colleges are listed below.

Important Links:

PhD in Psychology: Abroad

There are various colleges abroad where you can pursue PhD in Psychology programs. Candidates often desire to pursue their favorite subjects abroad for the availability of a better infrastructure, research opportunities, etc. Though there are some things that the aspirants must keep in mind before taking this step. Check them below.

• Candidates must have a master degree in the relevant stream from a recognised educational institution.
• Candidates may have to appear for the entrance test, which includes the GRE exam .
• Candidates have to submit their english proficiency proof either via TOEFL or IELTS exam.

Candidates also have to fulfil some other requirements by showing their arksheets of previous exams, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, work experience, medical certificate, etc.

PhD in Psychology in USA

Following are the top colleges for the USA offering the PhD in Psychology program.

PhD in Psychology in UK

Check out the top colleges in the United Kingdom providing PhD in Psychology programs.

PhD in Psychology in Canada

Check out the top colleges in Canada offering PhD in Psychology courses.

PhD in Psychology in Australia

Ph.D. in Psychology: Career Prospects

On successful completion of Ph.D. in Psychology course, candidates have a wide array of options to choose from. They can opt for a career in Social Service and Mental Health which are two of the most popular career fields for psychology graduates. There is a strong demand for professionals in these fields, they can expect to earn a decent income and have the opportunity to work directly with patients struggling with mental illness and other ailments.

A master’s degree in psychology is the minimum requirement for most entry-level career positions; most of the best jobs are reserved for psychologists with a doctorate in psychology.

Read more about Ph.D. courses

Some of the top most professional avenues open to such postgraduates are listed below with the corresponding salaries offered for the respective positions.

Ph.D in Psychology FAQs

Ques. What is the world of a psychologist having a PhD degree?

Ans. The significant job of a psychologist having a PhD degree is to prepare and conduct scientific research and execute professional practice.

Ques. How long does it generally take for an individual to complete the program of PhD in Psychology?

Ans. To complete the PhD degree in Psychology, it generally takes five to seven years. Also candidates have to do a one-year internship program in this time span.

Ques. Which is better in between PsyD and PhD?

Ans. PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) and PhD both are worth pursuing. Both the degrees train the students to practice a variety of clinical settings in psychology. The basic difference between these programs are, PsyD focuses more on the clinical part, whereas PhD focuses more on the research part.

Ques. Is a PhD in Psychology difficult to pursue?

Ans. Getting a PhD degree in Psychology is certainly hard work to execute. A candidate pursuing this program needs to do a lot of hard work with dedication, and is required to do coursework, come through knowledge exams, engage themselves in various internships, etc.

Ques. Is it possible for someone to work while pursuing the PhD in Psychology program?

Ans. Yes. If someone wants to balance both of them, they certainly can. Pursuing the PhD degree as well as doing a full-time job is possible, and many people do the same. However it is recommended to do a part-time job while doing a PhD, as a full-time job on one hand, and doing PhD on the other becomes very tough and sometimes affects the learning as well.

Ques. Do all Psychologists have a PhD degree?

Ans. Most Psychologists have a PhD degree. Only there are few instances where psychologists do their job with a master degree only. Though they have additional certification and license for that.

Ques. What is the basic requirement for pursuing a PhD in Psychology?

Ans. Aspirants desiring to pursue PhD is Psychology, need to have a bachelor’s degree along with in-depth training in Psychology which includes laboratory experience, research, statistics, etc.

Ques. Do Psychologists provide medicine?

Ans. No. Psychologists are not trained with a medical degree, hence can't give medicines to their patients. They can only help the patients recover from their mental issues, by applying some effective techniques.

Ques. Can anyone pursue a PhD in Psychology, without pursuing a Masters?

Ans. Yes. It is not mandatory to pursue a master degree for doing PhD in Psychology. Candidates can skip the postgraduate program in this case.

Ques. Is Psychology a good career?

Ans. Psychology is certainly a good career, especially in the present era where people have so many mental issues. It is highly rewarding and a lucrative field of study. Also, psychologist get a handsome amount of salary, depending upon the person’s area of specialization, qualification, etc.

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8 Reviews found

Course Curriculum Overview

My course of is B.com the faculty of that college is average and the student ratio is 50 students in one section. In my college, there is 4 sections that is A, b , C,D.MAny teachers is having an experience of 14-15 years in our college. the duration of the exam is 6 months every six months there is a semester exam the exam is sem wise there is 6 sem in b.com.It is not that easy and that much diffcuilt te pass .

Campus Life

there is 6th sem which is been given in college there are more than 2000 books in our library for issue a book we have to apply for an id card we are having many extra curicullar activity in my college and celebrate a sports day as well we have the basketball volleyball court in our college .

Hope you'll get the overview

Loan/ scholarship provisions.

As I've mentioned before I'm pursuing a B. A psychology Honors and the total fee is 60000 which is more affordable. And I had a merit scholarship with a 50% cut-off in my semester fees and it is mandatory to maintain the scholarship by scoring more than 7 CGPA.

Internships Opportunities

As we all know the importance of internships and webinars as they help us in increasing of experiences in our fields and knowledge and Psychology internships our provided by the Shobhit University. By the way, I was satisfied with the internship programs.

Physho phd group of RU

In my university, we participate and enjoy many annual fests and sports activities. for example dance fests, singing, art and craft, drawing and painting, and for sports activities cricket, tennis, volleyball, football, etc. in our campus a big library available for students free of cost. There you can learn anytime and grow your knowledge. There are many social groups and clubs charity on our campus

I chose psychology subject because of I'm interested in human-mind process statements and i want to research on human nature so i decide to read phycology and i want to become a psychologist in the future..there are well-qualified and best teachers are here for students. Quality for a psychology teaching job, you can qualify in NET and JRF and you can also pass phd from a qualified university.

Great environment

The candidates who are interested in taking admission in the PG course offered by Children? University must meet the criteria mentioned below: 1.The candidates should have completed 10+2 or equivalent from one of the recognized board of India is eligible to take admission in UG courses The candidates must hold a degree in the relevant subject to seek admission in PG courses. The admission process is done directly without any entrance.

Students of the college are constantly encouraged to shape up their athletic skills as well. The college has a number of sports achievements in its kitty held at various college & university levels. Infrastructure for sports includes a meticulously designed badminton court which can be played upon in day/night, equipment for cricket, table tennis, volleyball & other indoor games.

ONE GOOD UNIVERSITY IN INDIA

I was interested in joining the Children's University, because of my interest in the education sector, so I took admission here to enhance and learn more in this sector. I enrolled for a PhD in Education, the minimum requirement for getting enrolled as being a post-graduate in any field. The admission process was quite simple; I was interviewed and successfully reserved my seat for the course.

The faculty were skilled teachers, who had years of experience in teaching. They helped us achieve a lot in a short duration and were also quite friendly. The teachers were also highly qualified and treated us with a sense of respect as we were students of a Doctorate course. We enjoyed learning under them

Cool environment of this college

It was fantastic with more practicals and in depth theories. The period is two years and total four semesters. It has exposure to more practical coupled with theory knowledge regarding psychology and human resource. The course also has seminar for all the two years where field expert person takes the seminar with various psychology and human resource subjects and scope of it. Electives can be chosen from various subjects across the departments.

The head of the department is Dr.karunanidhi and he is the head of the department since 2004.He is the professor. There are two associate professors and two professors and two research scholars. All were PhD holders. Dr.lavanya, dr.sasikala,are associate professors dr.swaminathan (professor). dr.swaminathan has 32 years experience in teaching. dr.lavanya has 10 years experience in teaching and dr.sasikala has 6 years experience in teaching.

Neda Karbalaei's Review On Jamia Millia Islamia University-[JMI], New Delhi

Entrance preview.

I didn't pass entrance exam,it was interview. For foreigners there is no any entrance exam. But the procedure of interview and the following structure is so difficult to pass out from the procedure . For indian students there is an entrance exam which you should ask from the indian student of lamia itself.

There is more than 6 months source work which according to me it was somehow beneficial but one of the subject was not related to our exact field . There should be more concentration on the course choices , and it is happening in all universities there .

Best Place to Study in India.

Banaras Hindu university is one of the best university in india and it largest residential university in Asia. Situated in one of the oldest cities that is Varanasi. University provides good and proper facility to all their student to study and develop his /her skills .BHU have largest library in india with Cyber library for poor student those who cant afford their computer and laptops with 24 hour connectivity of local area network. There is no bad thing about my college except some...social issues that is part of our life.

Gender diversity is almost equal, and extracurricular activities are frequently organized on regular basis.

Ph.D. (English)

Ph.d. (economics), ph.d. (history), m.phil. (english), ph.d. (hindi), bachelor of arts [ba], master of science [ms], bachelor of science [b.sc] (nautical science), bachelor of science [b.sc] (psychology), ph.d. (psychology) colleges in india.

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Department of Psychology

Prospective Graduate Students

We offer an outstanding research-oriented Ph.D. program in the following areas:

• Behavioral Neuroscience
• Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Social/Personality Psychology

We also offer specialized training in the following subfields of study:

• Quantitative Psychology
• Health and Well-Being Psychology
• Diversity and Inequality Psychology

Our graduates secure positions in academic institutions, research institutes, government health and social service agencies, and corporate research and consulting companies.

Please note that we do not offer a terminal master’s degree, nor do we provide training in Clinical, Counseling, Educational, or School Psychology. Applicants interested in Educational or School Psychology should consult the  Graduate School of Education .

Currently, our students are admitted for the Fall quarter only. The Application Portal opens in early September for the following fall quarter. The deadline to submit your application and all supporting documents for the Psychology Graduate Program is December 1st.

PhD Admission FAQ - Under Construction

Please review commonly asked admissions questions while we update our website.

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• Psychology /

PhD in Psychology

• Updated on  
• Apr 28, 2023

The human brain is the most complex and mysterious object in the world which to date puts professionals into a fix. To explore and understand an individual’s behaviour, building a research career in Psychology is one of the most suitable routes. Apart from identifying the intricacies of the human brain, Psychology, as a discipline, provides an opportunity for researchers to test how people seem to think, speak or act. While the undergraduate and graduate courses in this domain deal with the scientific study of the human mind, in the context of behaviour, feeling, attitude and reaction, a research degree in psychology delves deeper into the aspects pertaining to personality and social operation. Through this blog, we will provide you with an in-depth understanding of PhD in Psychology and related details. 

This Blog Includes:

Program overview, phd in psychology: syllabus, popular study destinations, phd in psychology: top universities and fees, eligibility criteria: phd in psychology, admission process, skills required, specializations, job profiles and salary, future scope of phd in psychology.

A PhD in Psychology is a doctoral-level program that provides rigorous training in research for individuals who want to pursue a career as an academician or the ones who want to practice as a clinical psychologist . The course covers various aspects of psychology such as cognition, perception, neuroscience , behaviour, etc. This program typically runs for a period of 4 years for full-time and 7-8 years for a part-time course. While in the initial years, the students undergo theoretical training, the course comes to an end with a dissertation project and thesis. The typical curriculum of this doctorate program in Psychology includes: 

• Perception and Reality
• Graduate Research Methods
• Affective Science
• Advanced Statistical Modeling
• Developmental Psychology
• Attitudes and Social Judgement
• Foundations of Cognition
• Advances in Neuroscience

Must Read: An Ultimate Guide to PhD Courses

Because there are numerous sub-disciplines available for research, the syllabus for a PhD in psychology is quite subjective. Students select extra subjects and study areas based on their interest in the issue. However, the following table summarises the common curriculum for a PhD in psychology:

Apart from selecting a specialization, it is equally important to lay emphasis on choosing the best study-abroad destinations and universities to pursue a PhD in Psychology. A place that gives you access to world-class facilities and promotes achieving academic excellence. Listed below are the top destinations to study psychology.

• United States of America
• United Kingdom

With psychology becoming more and more popular amongst students, top universities across the world, apart from offering bachelor and master-level courses, are now offering a PhD in Psychology. Providing world-class facilities and educational infrastructure, listed below are some of the top universities offering this program: 

Also Read: Psychology Universities in Canada

For enrolling in the PhD in Psychology program, a candidate needs to meet certain criteria for eligibility. Although, the parameters may vary from one university to another, listed below are some common prerequisites: 

• An undergraduate degree in psychology or any such related course, such as BSc Psychology .
• Usually, to get admitted into PhD programs, it is necessary for the candidates to pursue masters-level courses like MSc Psychology , MSc Clinical Psychology , etc. However, this is not mandated by some universities and one can easily enrol in the PhD program just after completing a bachelor’s degree . 
• The candidates must have a good GRE score apart from English language proficiency test scores like IELTS / TOEFL / PTE . 
• SOP , LOR s, Transcripts , CV , etc form the other essential documents for admission. 

Must Read: How to Write a Motivation Letter for PhD Programs?

Every institute that offers a PhD in psychology course follows a similar admissions procedure. Admission is an entrance examination, and national-level counselling is used to confirm admission. The following are some of the most crucial admission steps for a PhD in psychology:

• Prospective candidates must ensure that they meet all of the university’s qualifying requirements.
• Prospective candidates must then take the admission examination and pass it with an estimated cutoff.
• Following the results of the entrance exam, students must complete an application form with all personal and academic information.
• Participants in group discussions and personal interviews are chosen from among the students.
• Applicants who pass all of the rounds will receive their offer letters .

Candidates for a PhD in psychology must have a wide range of skills that are not only essential but also aid in their advancement. A PhD student is active in research and analysis for an extended period of time and is expected to have particular talents that will help them excel in their field. Some of the most critical abilities that a student must have are included in the table below:

Being a diverse field with several specializations, students have the option of building a career in a subject of their choice. Listed below are the various courses related to PhD in Psychology that you might want to consider: 

• PhD in Medical Psychology and Psychopathology
• PhD in Psychology (Clinical Psychology)
• PhD in Clinical and Counselling Psychology
• PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Clinical Neuropsychology
• Doctorate in Educational Psychology and Educational Studies
• PhD in Organizational Behaviour
• PhD in Health Psychology
• PhD in Community Psychology

Also Read: Clinical Psychology Courses

Candidates who successfully complete the PhD in Psychology course have a wide range of possibilities to choose from. They can pursue a profession in one of the most common employment fields for psychology graduates, social service or mental health . Professionals in these professions are in high demand; they may expect to earn a good living and work directly with patients suffering from mental illnesses and other disorders. Here are the top positions and their average salaries listed below:

Must Read: Psychology Scholarships

In the medical field, the scope of a PhD in psychology is fairly broad. The degree prepares students for a broad understanding of human psychology and mental health. Aside from working as a medical professional, graduates with a PhD in psychology can also work as a student counsellors in schools and universities. Another alternative is to go into research and development and work in a medical lab with a research team. Following the completion of a PhD in psychology, candidates will have a plethora of job opportunities.

Psychology has been one of the most phenomenal fields to build a career. With a platform to understand the complexity of the human brain in-depth, a PhD in Psychology graduate can work in a multitude of organizations, schools, MNCs, social services agencies, and mental healthcare centres in both the government and private sectors. Professor , Consultant, Technical Writer , Research Scientist, Therapist, etc. are some of the major work profiles where a graduate can work in. 

Ans. Yes, a PhD can be addressed as Dr. without being confused with a medical doctor.

Ans. PhDs in psychology are designed for individuals interested in careers in research, academia, or administration. If you want to be a university professor, researcher, consultant, or programme director, the degree’s emphasis on research and analysis is a good fit.

Ans. PhD in Psychology subjects includes: Biology. Development Psychology. Psychopathology. General Psychology. Statistics. Counselling. Behavioral Neuroscience.

Thus, PhD in Psychology offers many avenues for students to explore. If you are planning to pursue PhD in this or some other field but are confused about the specializations then take the assistance of Leverage Edu ’s AI-based tool which will curate a list of the most suitable universities and the course which matches your interests. 

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• Honors in Psychology
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MAJOR REQUIREMENTS (FOR STUDENTS WHO MATRICULATED IN AND AFTER FALL 2022)

Ten 4-point courses (40 points), completed with a grade of C or higher, are required:

• Introduction to Psychology (PSYCH-UA 1)
• Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (PSYCH-UA 10; cannot count for more than one major requirement)
• Statistics and Data Analysis for Research in Psychology (PSYCH-UA 11; cannot count for more than one major requirement)
• Data Literacy for Psychology (PSYCH-UA 8)
• Statistics and Data Analysis for Research in Psychology(PSYCH-UA 11; cannot count for more than one major requirement)
• From Illusions to Inference (PSYCH-UA 60)
• Computational Neuroscience (PSYCH-UA 300)
• Computer Programming for the Psychological Sciences (PSYCH-UA 300)
• Decision Making (PSYCH-UA 300)
• Other quantitative advanced electives may be added to this list; please regularly check this Bulletin section online, and/or the website of the Department of Psychology, for new options.
• Quantitative advanced electives, if taken, do not count toward the general advanced elective requirement (below).
• Perception (PSYCH-UA 22)
• Cognitive Neuroscience (PSYCH-UA 25)
• Cognition (PSYCH-UA 29)
• Developmental Psychology (PSYCH-UA 34)
• Social Neuroscience (PSYCH-UA 35)
• Personality (PSYCH-UA 30)
• Social Psychology (PSYCH-UA 32)
• Laboratory in Social and Organizational Psychology (PSYCH-UA 38)
• Laboratory in Personality and Social Psychology (PSYCH-UA 39)
• Laboratory in Developmental Psychology (PSYCH-UA 40)
• Laboratory in Infancy Research (PSYCH-UA 42)
• Laboratory in Cognition and Perception (PSYCH-UA 46)
• Psychological Science and Society (PSYCH-UA 53)
• Teaching in Psychology (PSYCH-UA 2)
• Language and Mind (PSYCH-UA 27)
• Practicum in Clinical Psychology Research (PSYCH-UA 43)
• Linguistics as Cognitive Science (PSYCH-UA 48)
• Abnormal Psychology (PSYCH-UA 51)
• Introduction to Psycholinguistics (PSYCH-UA 56)
• First Language Acquisition (PSYCH-UA 59)
• Industrial and Organizational Psychology (PSYCH-UA 62)
• Motivation and Volition (PSYCH-UA 74)
• Political Psychology (PSYCH-UA 75)
• Experiments in Beauty (PSYCH-UA 79)
• Clinical Psychology (PSYCH-UA 81)
• Special Topics in Psychology - Topics Vary (PSYCH-UA 300)

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS (FOR STUDENTS WHO MATRICULATED IN AND BEFORE SUMMER 2022)

Students who matriculated through and including the summer of 2022 may either continue following the requirements below (this is automatic) or request departmental permission to follow the new major requirements (above).

o    Introduction to Psychology (PSYCH-UA 1)

o    Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (PSYCH-UA 10)

o    Statistics and Data Analysis for Research in Psychology (PSYCH-UA 11)

GENERAL POLICIES APPLYING TO THE MAJOR

To declare a major in psychology, students must first earn a grade of C or better in Introduction to Psychology (PSYCH-UA 1). To declare the major, please email  [email protected]  (include your N Number), call (212) 998-7920 or stop by the Academic Affairs Office at 6 Washington Place (Meyer Building), Room 423.

Developmental Psychology (PSYCH-UA 34) and Social Neuroscience (PSYCH-UA 35) can be selected by a student to count as either a Core A or Core B requirement (but not both).

Credit toward the major is not granted for courses completed with a grade of less than C, or for courses taken on a Pass/Fail basis.

Minor Requirements

To declare a minor in Psychology, students must earn a  grade of C or better  in  Introduction to Psychology (PSYCH-UA 1) . 

Four 4-point courses (16 points total) are required to complete the minor:

• One (1) course from the Core A group
•  One (1) course from the Core B group
•  One (1) advanced elective

Note: Developmental Psychology (PSYCH-UA 34) and Social Neuroscience (PSYCH-UA 35) can be selected by a student to count as  either  a Core A  or  Core B requirement (but not both).

CAS Students - Minor Declaration Instructions

To declare the minor, CAS students should email  [email protected]  (include your N Number), call (212)998-7920 or stop by the Academic Affairs Office at 6 Washington Place (Meyer Building), Room 423 upon completing  Introduction to Psychology (PSYCH-UA 1)  with a grade of C or better. 

Non-CAS Students - Minor Declaration Instructions

Non-CAS students must declare the minor through the "Application for Cross-School Minor" form found on the "Academics" tab in Albert. The "host school" for the minor is CAS, and the "home school" is the school in which you are matriculated as a full-time student. The minor declaration request will be processed by your home school so you should speak to your advisor if you have any trouble with this process.

Advanced Placement Exemptions

Entering students with a score of 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in Psychology receive credit for Introduction to Psychology (PSYCH-UA 1) and can complete the major with nine (9) other required courses , or the minor with three (3) other required courses . The same policy applies to students with International Baccalaureate or A-Level credits in psychology.

Entering students with a score of 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in Statistics receive credit for Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (PSYCH-UA 10) and may count this as one (1) of the ten (10) courses required for the major .

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