The great majority of our graduates take positions in academic settings, ranging from universities to two-year colleges, public and private research settings, and consulting service providers. Most of our graduates in recent years have found that their quantitative, research and teaching experience in our department benefited them substantially.
Experimental Psychology Ph.D.
Experimental Psychology Ph.D.
The Experimental Psychology Ph.D. focuses on scientific investigation of normal psychological processes. The five-year program of study prepares students for scholarly work as well as basic and applied research in these processes.
Throughout their graduate study, students are expected to be actively involved in research. This includes completing a master鈥檚 thesis and doctoral dissertation. Because of the commitment of the faculty in the experimental psychology program to collaborative, cross-disciplinary research, students often engage in research partnerships with faculty and students outside of their own areas of specialization. Students typically take five years to complete their on-campus requirements for graduation.
Careers with a Ph.D. in Psychology
Major Areas of Study
Students work closely with their faculty advisors to plan programs of study that reflect their own professional interests and goals.
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Specialization in Cognitive Psychology
The strength of this specialization is in complex cognition, particularly in the areas of memory and judgment and decision making.
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Specialization in Experimental Health Psychology
Health psychology is devoted to understanding the impact of psychological factors on health and illness.
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Specialization in Social Psychology
The strength of the social psychology specialty is in social cognition and social judgment.
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Specialization in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
The doctoral program in Industrial/Organizational Psychology provides a broad training in both industrial and organizational topics, while fostering integration with psychology in general.
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Elective Training in Quantitative Concentration
Quantitative methods can improve theory development and representation, measurement, and data analysis, and the Psychology Department provides a breadth of courses in quantitative methods.
Experimental Psychology Degree Requirements & Dissertation
Program requirements include coursework in a broad array of content areas, although students work closely with their faculty advisors to plan programs of study that reflect their own professional interests and goals. As part of their training, students will be expected to complete extensive coursework in statistics and research methodology, reflecting our belief that students who develop skills in these areas will be better prepared to tackle both basic and applied research problems in psychology.
Experimental Ph.D. in Psychology Manual
Additional Requirements
All students admitted without an earned master鈥檚 degree in Psychology must successfully complete and orally defend a master鈥檚 thesis. All students must successfully complete a comprehensive examination designed to assess synthesis of knowledge developed during the course of study.
Culminating Experience
Successful completion and oral defense of a dissertation.
Ready for the Next Step?
How to Apply to Graduate School in Psychology
Making yourself a strong candidate for graduate school requires starting early. A consistent record of academic success, effort, and interest bolsters your chances to stand out to application committees.
Psychology Graduate School Preparation
Contact the Director
Director of Experimental Training: Dr. Brian Wymbs
Related Programs
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Clinical Psychology Ph.D.The doctoral training program in Clinical Psychology trains students intensively in both clinical skills and research. The program has been accredited by the American Psychological Association since 1970.
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Psychological Science M.S.The Master of Science in Psychological Science offers an outstanding and distinctive graduate education that prepares students for careers in academic and other professional settings.