psychology phd programs prerequisites

PhD Program

The PhD is conferred upon candidates who have demonstrated substantial scholarship and the ability to conduct independent research and analysis in Psychology.

A student typically concentrates in one of several areas within Psychology. Across all areas, the training program emphasizes the development of research competence, and students are encouraged to develop skills and attitudes that are appropriate to a career of continuing research productivity.

Two kinds of experience are necessary for this purpose. One is the learning of substantial amounts of theoretical, empirical, computational and methods information . A number of courses and seminars are provided to assist in this learning, and students are expected to construct a program in consultation with their advisor(s) to obtain this knowledge in the most stimulating and economical fashion.

A second aspect of training is one that cannot be gained from the courses or seminars. This is first-hand knowledge of, and practical experience with, the methods of psychological investigation and study . Therefore, students are expected to spend half of their time on research and to take no more than 10 units of course work per quarter, beginning in the first quarter.

Students achieve competence in unique ways and at different rates. Students and advisors work together to plan a program to accomplish these objectives.

If current students have any questions about the PhD program, please email the Student Services Manager, Dena Zlatunich, at  denamz [at] stanford.edu (denamz[at]stanford[dot]edu) . The current Director of Graduate Studies is Professor Hyo Gwoen.

If you are interested in applying for our PhD program, please carefully review the information on the  PhD Admissions website . Follow-up questions can be directed to the admissions staff at  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) .

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

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

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

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

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

Areas of Study

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

Admissions Requirements

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

Academic Background

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

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

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Optional

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Psychology

See list of Psychology faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

Clinical Psychology PhD

Ph.d. in clinical psychology.

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

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

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

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

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

[email protected] for clarification.

Doug Mennin, Ph.D.

Professor, Director of Clinical Training

Research Centers

Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services

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

Teachers College Resilience Center for Veterans and Families

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

Dean Hope Center for Psychological Services

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

Admissions Information

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

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 95
• Entry Terms: Fall Only

Application Deadlines

• Spring: N/A
• Summer/Fall (Priority): December 1
• Summer/Fall (Final): December 1

Supplemental Application Requirements/Comments

• Online Degree Application , including Statement of Purpose and Resume
• Transcripts and/or Course-by-Course Evaluations for all Undergraduate/Graduate Coursework Completed
• Results from an accepted English Proficiency Exam (if applicable)
• $75 Application Fee
• Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
• GRE General Test

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

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

View Full Catalog Listing

The Program requires the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Second Year

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

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

Fourth and Fifth Year

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

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

• View Other Degrees

Teachers College, Columbia University 328 Horace Mann

Contact Person: Rebecca Shulevitz

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

Email: shulevitz@tc.columbia.edu

Graduate Program in Psychology

Introduction.

The Graduate Field of Psychology includes faculty members from departments across the university including Psychology, Neurobiology and Behavior, Communication, and Philosophy.  M.A. and Ph.D. candidates are admitted. The goal of the Field is to educate students to become researchers, scholars, and teachers who will contribute to the future of psychology as a scientific discipline in academic or other research-oriented settings.

Psychology PhD Program Handbook : download PDF file

Currently: The dominant strengths of the Field lie in three broadly defined areas:  Behavioral and Evolutionary Neuroscience ;  Perception, Cognition and Development ; and  Social/Personality Psychology .

Future Plans: The dominant strengths of the Field lie in four broadly defined areas: Cognition , Development ,  Neuroscience , and Social and Personality . (The future areas will only strengthen our current program). 

Fall 2022 -2023 application cycle for the Fall 2023 - 2024 academic year, will be administered under the current program which will be grandfathered into future plans.

We do not offer training in clinical psychology, counseling, school psychology, community psychology, industrial psychology, or clinical neuropsychology. Applicants with primary interests in these subjects are not admitted.

How to Apply

You must  apply directly  to the Cornell University Graduate School. You may also want to investigate the  Cornell Graduate School  site for additional information about applying. 

Application requirements

• Unofficial transcript of the undergraduate record
• Three letters of recommendation , with a fourth letter optional, which your recommender will upload to the application.

Academic Statement of Purpose

Describe (within 1000 words) the substantive research questions you are interested in pursuing during your graduate studies, and explain how our program would help you achieve your intellectual goals. Additionally, detail your academic background, intellectual interests and any training or research experience you have received that you believe has prepared you for our program. Within your statement, please also identify specific faculty members whose research interests align with you own interests.

Personal statement of interest

Please describe (within 1000 words) how your personal background and experiences influenced your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Additionally, provide insight on your potential to contribute to a community of inclusion, belonging, and respect where scholars representing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn and work productively and positively together. We also encourage you to include information on any of the following areas:

• How your personal, academic, and/or professional experiences demonstrate your ability to be both persistent and resilient especially when navigating challenging circumstances.
• How you engage with others and have facilitated and/or participated in productive teams.
• How you have experienced or come to understand the barriers faced by others whose experiences and backgrounds may differ from your own.
• If relevant, how your research interests focus on issues related to diversity, inclusion, access, inequality, and/or equity.
• Your service and/or leadership in efforts to advance diversity, inclusion, access, and equity especially by those from backgrounds historically underrepresented and/or marginalized.
• Additional context around any perceived gaps or weaknesses in your academic record (including, but not limited to, personal and family struggles with unemployment and health as a result of the pandemic,systemic discrimination and the fight for civil rights, and any other situational factors that may have impacted achievements throughout your life).

Applicants are not required to submit scores on the GRE; GRE subject test in psychology, or to have had an undergraduate major in psychology for the 2022 - 2023 application cycle. Prior research experience is highly desirable; applicants may submit research reports or work. Persons whose primary interests lie in clinical, counseling, industrial, or school psychology should not apply.

The closing date for applications was December 15, 2023. For any questions or concerns please email our Graduate Field Representative at  [email protected] .

The Field Structure

At Cornell, graduate study is organized using a field structure.   Fields are composed of faculty members from a number of departments who come together around a shared intellectual interest, and may draw from different campuses or colleges.  Graduate students are admitted to fields of study.  Within each field, they select major and minor subjects, which are research interests or concentrations.

Fields span departments and even disciplines.  It’s possible for a student in the field of economics to include faculty on his or special committee from industrial labor and economics, civil and environmental engineering, and sociology along with the more traditional economics and management.

For example, the Graduate Field of Psychology includes faculty from

• neurobiology and behavior (College of Agriculture & Life Sciences and College of Arts & Sciences)
• industrial and labor relations (School of Industrial and Labor Relations)
• nutritional science (College of Human Ecology)

Click here for the complete "Fields of Study, Subjects, and Concentrations" in PDF form.

David A. Pizarro, Director of Graduate Studies Uris Hall, Room 234 E-mail:  [email protected] Phone:  607-699-1327

Pamela A. Cunningham, Graduate Field Assistant - Psychology Uris Hall, Room 211 E-mail:  [email protected] Phone:  607-255-3834 Fax: 607-255-8433

Student Life

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 April 15 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 requirements are fulfilled by graduate students serving as teaching assistants to members of the department's faculty, in courses taught in the School of Arts and Sciences.  All graduate students are expected to TA a total of four semesters, beginning in the first semester of their second year, continuing consecutively through the second semester of the third year.  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.

• Graduate Program Requirements

Course Requirements

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

Individual Research Project

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

Advanced Inquiry in Psychological Science

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

Oral Qualifying Examination (QE)

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

Dissertation

Progress reviews.

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

Typical Timeline and Sequence of Events

ANGELA SCULLY Graduate Program Coordinator

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• Graduate Student Funding and Financial Support
• Areas of Specialization
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• How to Apply

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Doctoral Admission Requirements

Doctoral admission.

The Department of Psychology offers graduate studies leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree with a master's in passing as part of the doctoral training program. Six basic areas of study form the core of the doctoral program:

• Behavioral Neuroscience and Comparative Psychology  -  Area Head:  Clive Wynne, PhD
• Clinical Psychology  - Area Heads:   Matt Meier, PhD  and Madeline Meier, PhD
• Cognitive Science  - Area Head:  Samuel McClure, PhD
• Developmental Psychology  - Area Head: Frank Infurna, PhD
• Quantitative Research Methods  - Area Head: Roy Levy, PhD
• Social Psychology  - Area Head: Michael Varnum, PhD

Interactions among faculty and students across these areas are central to a variety of ongoing research and educational programs in the department. Faculty and students are also actively involved with a number of other centers, institutes and research groups on campus that promote transdisciplinary approaches to issues of local and national significance, affording outstanding research and training experiences that extend beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.

If you are primarily interested in becoming a therapist or counselor please review our list of  graduate programs in Arizona  for clinical practitioner options in addition to considering a PhD in psychology.

We also strongly encourage you to explore the department's  Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis  as another possibility for becoming a practitioner. Please note, however, the MS ABA is a professional degree program and its curriculum will not progress students toward a PhD in the department's doctoral program areas.

DOCTORAL PROGRAM APPLICATION PROCESS

The Doctoral Program Admission Instructions and Checklist  provides details and a step-by-step overview to ensure you have successfully completed your application. See the Admission Requirements section below for a list of requirements by area and links to forms.

LAPSYQUPHD: plan code for our Quantitative program. LAPSYCHPHD: plan code for our other 5 programs: Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical, Cognitive Science, Developmental, and Social.

IMPORTANT: To be considered for PhD program, you must complete two applications: 1.) the  ASU  graduate application  and 2.) the department  Slideroom  application.

Actively recruiting faculty for fall 2025 .

• Behavioral Neuroscience and Comparative Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Quantitative Psychology
• Social Psychology

Admission requirements

The Department of Psychology requires two applications for doctoral admission consideration: the ASU graduate application and a department application through a system called SlideRoom (links to each are below in the numbered list). SlideRoom requires a $10 fee per application. 

Please review the Checklist and PhD Applicant FAQ page to ensure you understand the process, required materials (can vary by training area), and where to find answers to common questions. 

Fall 2024 Required Applicant Materials

• ASU Graduate Admission Application
• Slideroom Department Application
• Behavioral Neuroscience and Comparative Psychology: optional
• Clinical Psychology: not required, but can be a supplemental item (optional)
• Cognitive Science: not required
• Developmental Psychology: not required, but can be a supplemental item (optional)
• Quantitative Research Methods: required
• Social Psychology: optional
• Behavioral Neuroscience and Comparative Psychology’s form
• Clinical Psychology’s form
• Cognitive Science’s form
• Developmental Psychology’s form
• Quantitative Research Method’s form
• Social Psychology’s form
• Developmental Psychology's form

Supplemental items (optional; for Clinical Psychology and Developmental Psychology applicants only)

Clinical Psychology (optional) We invite students to submit any materials that will help demonstrate their aptitude and skills. Examples of supplemental materials that can be submitted but are NOT REQUIRED are:  - published papers,  - senior honors theses,  - posters presented at conferences,  - GRE Psychology Subject Test or GRE General scores, or  - video-recorded presentations of research (please submit a YouTube link not the actual recording), etc.

Developmental Psychology (optional) We encourage applicants to submit supplemental materials that demonstrate their preparation and readiness to succeed in a research-focused graduate program.  

Supplemental materials that are accepted include any of the following:  1) GRE scores,  2) writing sample (published papers, senior honors theses, paper from research-focused course work),  3) presentation sample (poster or YouTube link to a recorded presentation),  4) quantitative measures of academic success (honors or awards) 

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume (uploaded to SlideRoom as a pdf)
• Transcripts (upload an unofficial copy into SlideRoom and the ASU application, and  if accepted   you will be required to submit an official copy to the  Graduate Admission Services )
• Three letters of recommendation (list references' contact info in SlideRoom application) 
• Proof of  English Proficiency  if applicable (send official scores to Graduate Admission Services and upload a copy into SlideRoom)

Link to SlideRoom

 Application Deadlines

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UCLA Graduate Programs

Program Requirements for Psychology

Applicable only to students admitted during the 2022-2023 academic year.

College of Letters and Science

Graduate Degrees

The Department of Psychology offers the Master of Arts (M.A.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Psychology.

Admissions Requirements

Master’s Degree

Upon admission to graduate status, each student is assigned an adviser on the basis of the student’s interests as indicated in the application. At the beginning of each fall quarter until Advancement to Candidacy (ATC), all students are required to meet with their adviser to discuss their academic year enrollment plan and to secure their adviser’s endorsement of that plan. The academic year plan will ensure that the advisers provide guidance and support for all course requirements. Students who would like to change advisers may request to do so. Students are evaluated annually, in the spring of each year, by the chair of the major area until they have completed the program. Students who are not making satisfactory progress in the program are notified in writing.

In addition, each spring quarter, areas are required to conduct a comprehensive review of all graduate students in their program. Each student receives from the area a written evaluation letter. Each fall quarter, students in their fourth and sixth year in the program complete progress reports, which are reviewed by their adviser, the area chair, and the Vice Chair for Graduate Studies.

Areas of Study

Not applicable.

Foreign Language Requirement

Course Requirements

The M.A. degree requires nine graduate courses (36 units). This course work must include Psychology 250A, 250B, 251A, 251B, 251C, and 16 units from major courses required for the doctoral degree. Up to four units of 596 may be applied toward the 36 unit requirement. In addition, the Psychology 251C research project must be completed. All courses must be taken for a letter grade except 251A, 251B, and 596 are S/U grading. Courses in the 300 or 400 series may not be applied. Any undergraduate deficiencies must be cleared before the M.A. degree is awarded. Students who have earned a previous Master’s Degree in Psychology are not permitted to earn a duplicate Master’s Degree in Psychology at UCLA.

Teaching Experience

All students will be introduced to teaching through an introductory teaching assistant position during one quarter of the first year of matriculation in the degree program. All students are required to take Psychology 495A in the first quarter they serve as a teaching assistant (in the first year of matriculation in the degree program), and 495B in the second quarter they serve as a teaching assistant (no later than end of fourth year prior to doctoral advancement to candidacy). 495A and 495B are S/U grading and must be passed with a S grade.

Field Experience

Not required.

Capstone Plan

Students must complete an individual research project which demonstrates their knowledge of relevant scientific literature and their ability to design and conduct a research project and write a complete research report. Students must enroll in Psychology 251A, 251B, and 251C consecutively, beginning in the winter quarter of the first year and concluding in the fall quarter of the second year.

Thesis Plan

Time-to-Degree

Students are expected to complete the master’s requirements within four quarters of full-time graduate study.

Doctoral Degree

Upon admission to graduate status, each student is assigned an adviser on the basis of the student’s interests as indicated in the application. At the beginning of each fall quarter until ATC, all students are required to meet with their adviser to discuss their academic year course enrollment plan and to secure their adviser’s endorsement of that plan. Students who would like to change advisers may request to do so. Students are evaluated annually, in the spring of each year, by the chair of the major until they have completed the program. Students who are not making satisfactory progress in the program are notified in writing.

Major Fields or Subdisciplines

Students are required to obtain a thorough background in research methodology and psychological theory by completing requirements for a major. Majors are offered in the following seven areas of psychology: Behavioral Neuroscience; Clinical; Cognitive; Developmental; Health; Quantitative; and Social Psychology.

In addition, students admitted to the Behavioral Neuroscience Area may elect to major in Behavioral Neuroscience, Learning and Behavior, or Cognitive Neuroscience. Students admitted in to the Cognitive Area may elect to major in Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, or Computational Cognition. Students admitted to the Developmental Area can major in Developmental Psychology or Social and Affective Neuroscience. Students admitted to the Social Area can major in Social Psychology or Social and Affective Neuroscience. Students remain in their Area of admission for administrative purposes, regardless of major. There are no alternative major tracks for students admitted to Clinical, Health, or Quantitative Areas. Adding a minor area of study is optional.

Students should refer to the Psychology Graduate Student Handbook available on the departmental web site for additional information on courses that can be applied toward the program requirements listed below.

General Course Requirements

All doctoral students must complete the following seven courses: Psychology 250A and 250B, which must be completed in the first year; 251A, 251B, and 251C, which must be completed by the end of the fall quarter of the second year; and 495A and 495B (for a total of 22 units). Depending on their major, students must complete an additional 20 to 38 units, for a total of 42 to 60 units of coursework. Courses must be passed with a letter grade of B or better, unless the course is only offered with S/U grading.

Students must enroll in one independent study course each quarter, beginning with Psychology 251A in the winter quarter of the first year. Students may select from the following independent study courses, depending on their stage in the program: Psychology 251A, 251B, 251C, 596, 597, 599. Beginning in the second year, students must take at least 4 units of Psychology 596, 597, or 599 each year.

Major Area Course Requirements

Behavioral Neuroscience . 8 units of behavioral neuroscience courses; Neuroscience M203; either Neuroscience M202 or Cellular Physiology portion of NS101A (via Psych 596); and 8 elective units. Enrollment in Psychology 212 is required for 6 quarters.

Clinical . Psychology 250C or substitute, 270A, 270B, 270C, 271A, 271D, 273A, 273B, 273C, 277A, 277B and two advanced clinical courses are required. Psychology 271BC are optional. Enrollment in Psychology 289ABC is required for 3 quarters.

Prior to the clinical internship, and in consultation with program faculty, students are required to take courses that enable them to meet the ‘Discipline-Specific Knowledge’ required for program accreditation by the American Psychological Association.

Practicum and Internship Requirements for Clinical Students: At least 500 hours of approved, supervised, pre-internship practicum (Psychology 401) are required, of which 150 hours must involve direct clinical service and 75 hours must be formal scheduled supervision. These hours are usually completed during the second through fourth years. All advanced students working with clients must enroll in Psychology 401 (one to four units). All students must take a second‐year practicum in the Psychology Clinic as well as a practicum in the third and/or fourth years at approved practicum sites outside of the Department or within the Psychology Clinic.

All clinical training must be approved by the Director of Clinical Training (DCT) while students are enrolled in the program. Students are discouraged from making independent arrangements for clinical training and are prohibited from providing direct clinical services in clinical settings not expressly approved by the DCT, including private practice psychological assistantships.

The equivalent of one-year’s full-time supervised internship (Psychology 451) in an acceptable setting approved by the faculty is required. This is usually taken in the fifth or sixth year. Students must enroll in at least 12 units of course work while on internship, including at least eight units in Psychology 451. Students should contact the Department for further information on internship, enrollment, and registration requirements.

Cognitive . 3 cognitive courses from Psychology 261-264, 4 units of methods, quantitative or programming and 8 elective units. Enrollment in Psychology 260AB is required for 2 quarters.

Cognitive Neuroscience . 8 units from cognitive courses, 4 units from behavioral neuroscience courses, Neuroscience M203 and 8 elective units. Enrollment in Psychology 212 is required for 6 quarters.

Computational Cognition . 2 cognitive courses from Psychology 261-264, Psychology 259 or 265, 2 courses from statistics and or computer science, and 4 elective units. Enrollment in Psychology 260AB is required for 2 quarters.

Developmental . Psychology 250C or substitute, 3 developmental courses taught by different faculty members and 2 courses which may be developmental or outside of the area and/or department. Enrollment in Psychology 241 is required for 8 quarters.

Health Psychology . Psychology 250C or substitute, Psychology 215AB, Psychology 218, another Health Psychology course and 4 elective units. Enrollment in Psychology 219 is required for 6 quarters.

Learning and Behavior . 8 units from learning and behavior courses, 4 units from behavioral neuroscience courses, Neuroscience M203 and 8 additional elective units. Enrollment in Psychology 212 is required for 6 quarters.

Quantitative. Psychology 250C, 255A, 256A, M257,254C and 4 elective courses. Enrollment in Psychology 249 is required for 6 quarters.

Practicum Requirements for Quantitative Students : After completing the following courses: 250A, 250B, 250C, M257, 255A, 256A, 258, students are required to enroll in the quantitative psychology practicum Psych 430 for 2 quarters. The practicum serves as a hands-on statistical consultation training for graduate students. Practicum activities include a weekly meeting with a faculty supervisor, consultation with researchers in the psychology department, and outside time spent preparing for and following-up on consultation meetings.

Social. Psychology 250C or substitute, Psych 220A, Psych 220B or substitute and 3 additional courses in consultation with adviser. Enrollment in Psychology 226AC is required for 6 quarters.

Social and Affective Neuroscience. 250C or substitute, one course from methods series, one course from content series, another course from either methods or content series, three additional courses in consultation with adviser, and a workshop course on presenting research. Enrollment in the Social and Affective Neuroscience colloquium series is required for all quarters of years 1-3. Students must also attend their home area talk series as required by the home Area.

Minor Area Course Requirements

Students are not required to complete a minor. However, three optional minors are available for students who are interested: Diversity Science, Health, and Quant. Students may also petition to create an individualized minor program of study.

Diversity Science. Psychology 295 and two additional courses.

Health Psychology. Psychology 215A or 215B, two quarters of 219, and one additional health psychology course.

Quantitative. Psychology 250C, 255A and 2 elective quantitative area courses.

Written and Oral Qualifying Examinations

Academic Senate regulations require all doctoral students to complete and pass university written and oral qualifying examinations prior to doctoral advancement to candidacy. Also, under Senate regulations, the University Oral Qualifying Examination is open only to the student and appointed members of the doctoral committee. In addition to university requirements, some graduate programs have other pre-candidacy examination requirements. What follows in this section is how students are required to fulfill all of these requirements for this doctoral program.

All committee nominations and reconstitutions adhere to the Minimum Standards for Doctoral Committee Constitution .

The qualifying examination consists of two parts: a Comprehensive Examination (C-Exam) administered by the major area, and the University Oral Qualifying Exam. The C-Exam administered by the major area examines in breadth the student’s knowledge of the major field. For information about each major area’s examination, refer to the Graduate Student Handbook. All Ph.D. requirements besides the dissertation, including the C-Exam administered by the major area, must be completed before students are allowed to take the University Oral Qualifying Examination Students are expected to complete the Oral Qualifying Examination no later than spring quarter of the fourth year of the program.

Advancement to Candidacy

Students are advanced to candidacy and awarded the Candidate in Philosophy (C.Phil.) degree upon successful completion of the written and oral qualifying examinations.

Doctoral Dissertation

Every doctoral degree program requires the completion of an approved dissertation that demonstrates the student’s ability to perform original, independent research and constitutes a distinct contribution to knowledge in the principal field of study.

Final Oral Examination (Defense of the Dissertation)

The Final Oral Examination is required for all students in the program. Students are expected to complete the Final Oral Examination no later than spring quarter of the sixth year of the program.

The normative time-to-degree for doctoral requirements is six years (18 quarters). Students are required to complete various stages of the program as follows:

• Course Work Requirements: Prior to taking the University Oral Qualifying Examination.
• Comprehensive Examinations: Students should refer to individual area guidelines in the Psychology Graduate Student Handbook .
• University Oral Qualifying Examination: No later than spring quarter of the fourth year of the graduate program.
• Final Oral Examination: No later than spring quarter of the sixth year of the graduate program.
• Degree Requirement Completion: All requirements for the Ph.D. degree, including the filing of the dissertation, must be completed within six calendar years of the date of admission to the graduate program.

Academic Disqualification and Appeal of Disqualification

University Policy

A student who fails to meet the above requirements may be recommended for academic disqualification from graduate study. A graduate student may be disqualified from continuing in the graduate program for a variety of reasons. The most common is failure to maintain the minimum cumulative grade point average (3.00) required by the Academic Senate to remain in good standing (some programs require a higher grade point average). Other examples include failure of examinations, lack of timely progress toward the degree and poor performance in core courses. Probationary students (those with cumulative grade point averages below 3.00) are subject to immediate dismissal upon the recommendation of their department. University guidelines governing academic disqualification of graduate students, including the appeal procedure, are outlined in Standards and Procedures for Graduate Study at UCLA .

Special Departmental or Program Policy

In addition to the standard reasons noted above, a student may be recommended for academic disqualification if the student receives two grades of B-, one grade lower than B- in the core program, or does not meet the time requirements for completion of the core program. Such cases are considered by the Graduate Studies Committee. If a recommendation for academic disqualification is approved by the Department Chair, the recommendation is sent to the Graduate Division by the Vice Chair for Graduate Studies.

Area committees may also recommend that a student be academically disqualified. Grounds for a recommendation for academic disqualification include: a pattern of unsatisfactory performance in other course work; and failure of a qualifying examination. A recommendation for academic disqualification also may be initiated by the Graduate Studies Committee for insufficient progress toward the Ph.D. degree, as evidenced by a failure to obtain the degree within six calendar years following matriculation. If approved by the Department Chair, a recommendation for academic disqualification is sent to the Graduate Division by the Vice Chair for Graduate Studies.

Students are informed in writing by the Vice Chair for Graduate Studies when actions concerning them are under consideration by the Graduate Studies Committee. A student may appeal a recommendation for academic disqualification to the Department Chair.

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

• Undergraduate
• Graduate Studies in Psychology
• Areas of Specialization
• Considering Clinical Psychology

What Does It Take to Get Into Graduate School in Clinical Psychology?

Admission to PhD programs in clinical psychology is very competitive. Ratios of 300 applicants to 8 positions are common (though perhaps 10-15 people would have to be accepted to fill the 8 slots; some who are accepted decide to go elsewhere, or enter a different kind of graduate or professional program ). Different programs emphasize different characteristics, but it is safe to say that in all programs GREs and GPAs are examined closely. Graduate students in Northwestern's program have averaged over 1400 on the GRE (Verbal plus Quantitative), with an average GPA of over 3.5. (GPAs for the last two years of undergraduate schooling are most important, so students with uneven early records have a good chance if they've improved.) There are respectable programs whose students score lower on these measures, but students who have lower than 1200 on the GRE or a GPA of less than 3.3 can expect to find it difficult to get into a top graduate program in clinical psychology without other special qualifications.

Regarding less standardized criteria, most graduate programs in clinical psychology will prefer that you have taken a course in psychopathology, e.g., our Psych 303. Introduction to Clinical Psychology (Psych 306) can also be useful, in part as a way to learn more about the field and your options within it. Most graduate schools also expect students to have obtained some research experience. The primary concern is that students should have conducted some psychological research in order to know whether they find it interesting. From an admissions perspective, it is less important that you have had clinical research experience than it is that you have had meaningful research experiences (e.g., not just entering data). It is also important that you be able to solicit a letter of recommendation from at least one research supervisor. This means that it is important to get involved in research before you do your applications. If you plan to apply to graduate programs during fall of your senior year, then you should begin your research involvement as a junior, or even earlier.

Northwestern’s psychology department offers many  research opportunities  for undergraduate students. Each quarter, many of our students do  research for course credit  through 399-Independent Study or the two-quarter sequence 397-Advanced Supervised Research. You can learn more about 399 and 397, including their requirements and the differences between them, by reading our webpage on research for course credit. This page also includes tips on choosing a professor with whom to do research. Other students obtain paid positions in the department, typically through the federal  work-study program . You should make sure that your research experience provides you with an in-depth look at the nature of psychological research and at the theories and past research relevant for the questions under investigation. Entering data, scheduling research participants, and so on are integral parts of the research process, but it is important to do much more than that.

Some psychology students hope to do research that is outside the specific projects for which their faculty supervisors have funding. In addition, students who want to do research on campus during the summer may need to earn money for living expenses. Northwestern University, Weinberg College, and the psychology department all have funds available on a competitive basis to support student research. Guidelines for applying for the psychology department’s Benton J. Underwood Summer Fellowship are always included in the winter edition of our undergraduate newsletter,  Swift Thinking . See the Weinberg College webpage on  funds for undergraduate research  and the university page on  Research Opportunities for Undergraduates  for additional funding options.

Many graduate schools give a great deal of consideration to the likely match between potential students' interests and faculty interests. Students can convey their interests through the personal statements they include in their applications and in direct contact with relevant professors. If you have strong interests in a professor's research, this will make you a much more desirable applicant to that person. But you must be able to convey that your interests are serious, for example, by discussing a specific study. Faculty will not be impressed if it appears that you merely scanned the departmental brochure searching for topics that sound interesting.

Students may also want to consider trying some hands-on counseling-type work. Many agencies accept and train volunteers. For example, volunteering at a teen drop-in center or a hospital, working as a camp counselor for special needs children, and answering phones for a helpline can all be relevant experiences. If your goal is to work with some specific population – troubled teens, the elderly, autistic children – then you should try to gain some firsthand experience with this population. In part, this may serve as a valuable credential when you apply for graduate training. Perhaps more importantly, it will let you know if working with this population is as rewarding for you as you expect it to be. Two student groups –  Northwestern Community Development Corps (NCDC)  and  OASIS  – are good sources of information about volunteer opportunities in Evanston and surrounding communities

Master’s Study in Psychology

Develop the understanding, professional skills and empathetic approaches that are critical for success in psychology with a master’s degree in psychology from Adelphi University in New York.

Three Degree Options

Choose from MA programs in general psychology, mental health counseling, and school psychology. Each offers optional specializations and valuable field placements.

Making Your Degree Affordable

Adelphi and the Derner School of Psychology offer many ways to help you pay for master’s study, including graduate merit scholarships, scholarships for master’s psychology students, teaching assistantships and even employer tuition reimbursement.

A master’s degree in psychology opens doors to a wide variety of careers and can serve as a pathway to a doctorate.

Derner’s master’s in psychology programs give you the knowledge, training, critical reasoning skills and cultural competence you’ll need to excel in your career. Each includes optional specializations to help you focus on your interests:

• General Psychology: Human Resource Management, Substance Abuse Counseling
• Mental Health Counseling: Global Mental Health, Substance Abuse Counseling
• School Psychology: Bilingual School Psychology, Autism Specialization

Our rigorous master’s programs also offer part-time options and flexible schedules to meet our students’ work or family responsibilities.

Graduate Psychology Programs

Exceptional hands-on training.

As a master’s student at the Derner School of Psychology, you’ll gain clinical skills through practica and internships in local healthcare settings, schools, agencies and organizations, and community services offered by Adelphi. You can also gain valuable experience—and earn money to help cover tuition—in graduate assistantships.

Field Placements

Field experience is a vital part of our master’s degree programs, helping you develop the professional skills and the cultural competence to thrive in any working environment.

Graduate Assistantships

Working with faculty, staff and students helps cover the cost of your graduate education. Choose from research, testing or departmental assistantships.

“A number of professors in this program have made a profound impact on my development. The coursework, practica and internship experiences helped prepare me to obtain a job prior to graduation.

Mentoring Future Psychologists

• Our Inclusive Community
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Awards & Recognition

Earn Your Master’s Degree at the Derner School of Psychology

Graduate program contacts.

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MA in Psychology

Program overview.

MA Program in General Psychology Students are exposed to the various aspects of psychology, but may focus their courses, independent study and thesis research in applied and evaluative, social, cognitive and developmental, biopsychology and comparative psychology.

Master of Arts (MA) in General Psychology

The Psychology program consists of 30 credits (12 credits of required coursework, 9 credits across the 3 breadth areas and 9 elective credits).

Students satisfy the breadth requirement by taking a 3-credit course in each of the three content areas listed below. Students can choose courses from any content area to fulfill the elective requirements. All courses listed carry three credits.

You must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be considered for admission. Meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program.

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
• Two letters of recommendation from appropriate academic or professional references
• At least 12 credits of undergraduate courses in psychology, including one course in statistics and one laboratory course in experimental psychology.
• A statement of purpose of approximately 500 words or fewer

Providing an exceptional academic value is what we do best. See how Hunter compares against other top MA in Psychology programs in NYC.

Career Paths

While specific career paths and salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and industry demand, here are ten potential career paths for individuals with a Master's in Psychology in New York City (NYC), along with approximate average salaries:

Providing therapy and mental health services.

Salary Range: $90,000 - $120,000

Providing counseling services in various settings (private practice, hospitals, clinics).

Salary Range: $60,000 - $80,000

Applying psychological principles to legal and criminal justice settings.

Salary Range: $80,000 - $120,000

Focusing on the connection between psychology and health outcomes.

Using psychological insights to recruit, manage, and develop employees.

Salary Range: $60,000 - $90,000

Working in businesses to improve productivity, employee satisfaction, and organizational culture.

Salary Range: Varies, typically $90,000 - $110,000

Analyzing consumer behavior and market trends.

Assessing students' academic abilities and supporting their social-emotional development.

Salary Range: Varies, typically $80,000 - $100,000

Overseeing programs and services to help communities.

Assisting individuals struggling with addiction.

Salary Range: $40,000 - $60,000

Application Deadline

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Hunter College may consider late applications on a rolling basis pending space is still available in the program.

Some programs may extend their application deadlines beyond those listed above. Please contact Graduate Admissions for specific information. For information on how to apply, click the link below.

Students Educated Outside the US

Applicants whose native language is not English and who have taken all or part of their undergraduate education in a country where English is not the native language are required to submit scores on the  Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL ) or the  International English Language Testing System (IELTS ). The following minimum scores must be obtained:

• TOEFL iBT: 80/ Paper Based Test: 550/ Computer Based Test: 213
• IELTS: 6.5 Overall Band Score

Ready to Apply?

Get started on your application now or visit the academic department's website to learn more about this graduate program.

Contact the Program

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Careers with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

The list below highlights some of the jobs one can obtain with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. *Summarized from the APA Guideline for the Undergraduate Psychology Major: Version 2.0*

Note: While not all of the positions listed require a bachelor’s degree, it is often necessary for career advancement and salary increases. A degree in psychology alone will not guarantee acceptance into these job fields. Many of the jobs listed below require specific additional skills and/or prerequisite coursework. Please consult with your academic advisor or a career counselor for more specific information.

Careers starting with:   A-D    |    E-L    |    M-Q    |    R-Z

Activities Director

Advertising Sales Representative

Alumni Relations

Animal Trainer

Army Mental Health Specialist

Benefits Manager

Child Development Specialist

Claims Supervisor

Computer Programmer

Conservation Officer

Correctional Treatment Specialist

Corrections Officer

Criminal Investigator

Customer Service Representative Supervisor

Database Administrator

Database Design Analyst

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Employee Health Maintenance Program Specialist

Event Planner

Financial Advisor

Health Educator

Human Resource Advisor

Insurance Agent

Job Analyst

Labor Relations Manager

Loan Officer

Management Analyst

Market Research Analyst

Medical and Health Service Manager

News Writer/Writer

Paralegal/Legal Assistant

Police Officer

Preschool Teacher

Probation/Parole Officer

Psychiatric Aide/Attendant

Psychiatric Technician

Public Relations Representative

Purchasing Agent

Real Estate Agent

Recreational Therapist

Research Assistant

Sales Manager

Social and Community Service Manager

Substance Abuse Counselor

Systems Analyst

Technical Writer

Training and Development Specialist

Victims’ Advocate

Vocational Training Teacher