what to do with a phd in developmental psychology

Pursuing a Career in Developmental Psychology

All About Development

The study of developmental psychology is essential to understanding how humans mature. 

Throughout their lives, humans go through various stages of development. While most people follow common patterns in their development, others reach developmental milestones at a different pace. Developmental psychologists study how people grow and adapt at different life stages. They conduct research designed to help people reach their full potential. 

For example, babies who are not walking by 15 months may be demonstrating a developmental delay or signs of a more serious health condition. Developmental psychologists work with parents and doctors to understand the situation and detect and treat any resulting psychological or health problems. By intervening early, developmental psychologists work to help a child get on track to normal development. 

Developmental psychologists work with people of all ages to understand and support their growth.

What You Can Do

Developmental psychologists work in a variety of settings, including academia, government agencies, health care facilities and schools. 

Those working in colleges and universities tend to focus primarily on research or teaching. Others working in applied settings, such as health care facilities or clinics, help to assess, evaluate and treat people living with developmental disabilities. Developmental psychologists may also work in assisted living homes for the elderly, hospitals, mental health clinics and centers for the homeless.

Making It Happen

A doctoral degree is typically required for a career in developmental psychology. While the common educational pathway for a developmental psychologist is similar to that of psychologists working in other subfields — an undergraduate degree in psychology, followed by a master’s degree and then a doctoral degree — specialized developmental psychology programs exist for students interested in entering a more intensive graduate PhD program immediately following undergraduate studies.

What You Can Earn

Salaries for developmental psychologists depend upon geographic location, work setting and job experience. According to Salary.com, the median annual earnings for developmental psychologists in 2009 ranged from $69,000 to $91,000. The highest 10 percent of earners made more than $100,000 per year.

Helpful Resources

Division 7: Developmental Psychology Members of APA’s Division 7 conduct research in the field of developmental psychology and apply scientific knowledge to educational, child care, policy and related settings. 

APA Journal: Developmental Psychology® Developmental Psychology® publishes articles that significantly advance knowledge and theory about development throughout the lifespan. 

Division 33: Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities/Autism Spectrum Disorders APA’s Division 33 focuses on advancing psychology based on scientific inquiry and high standards of practice in the treatment of intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Developmental Psychology PhD

Doctor of philosophy in developmental psychology.

The 75-point doctoral degree prepares students for faculty positions in colleges, graduate schools of education, and universities, and for positions as research associates in research laboratories, biomedical schools,foundations, public policy, and arts and sciences, as well as policy research firms, governmental agencies, and NPOs. Throughout their program, doctoral candidates work in a close apprentice relationship with a faculty advisor of their choice. The Ph.D. degree requires completion of 75 points with an empirical research dissertation.

The aim of instruction at the doctoral level is to produce a psychologist who can make a sound and innovative research contribution to the study of human development, who is concerned with the relationship between development and education, and who is equipped to teach about such matters.Students acquire the conceptual background and methodological skills necessary for faculty positions in colleges and universities or for positions as associates and consultants in research laboratories, biomedical schools, and other applied settings.

While consultation between student and faculty advisor is considered to be the best way to decide which steps should be taken towards these goals, there are specific requirements for all students in Developmental Psychology that serve to define the character of the program and to ensure that all students have a common experience and acquire a common level of expertise in dealing with the core issues in the field.

The courses offered through the program provide content in the research and theoretical literature relating to all phases of the psychology of human development. All age groups are covered, from infancy through childhood, adolescence to adulthood, and later life. Coursework in developmental psychology can be supplemented by courses in the other psychology programs at Teachers College as well as by courses in the social sciences,linguistics, and other fields offered at Teachers College and the graduate faculty of Columbia University (including the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons).The doctoral program is focused primarily on training in the conduct of empirical (e.g., experimental, observational, and interview)research. Other types of research (theoretical, descriptive, and historical) may be undertaken in special circumstances of student and advisor competence.

Developmental Psychology Ph.D. Requirements 24-25

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2025, Summer 2025, and Fall 2025 terms.

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 75
• Entry Terms: Summer, Fall
• Enrollment Formats: Full-Time

Application Deadlines

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

Application Requirements

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

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

View Full Catalog Listing

Courses and Requirements  

Core Courses: 

Students are generally advised to take the following four courses in developmental psychology in their first year of doctoral studies.

• HUDK 5040 Developmental and psychopathology: Atypical contexts 
• HUDK 6520 Seminar on lifespan development 
• HUDK 5023 Cognitive Development
• HUD 4120  Methods of Empirical Research OR ORLJ  5040  Research methods in social psychology I 

Statistics Sequence: 

The following four statistics courses are required, and students are advised to begin enrollment during the first semester of study. HUDM 4122 may be waived for students who have taken appropriate coursework in statistics at the undergraduate/graduate level or who have passed an equivalency examination. Please contact HUD Staff at [email protected]   for more information. 

• HUDM 4122   Probability and statistical inference 
• HUDM 5122   Applied regression analysis OR EDPA5002 - Data Analysis for Policy Decision Making
• HUDM 5123   Linear models and experimental Design OR EDPE6023 - Advanced Causal Methods 
• HUDM 6122   Multivariate analysis 

Once this sequence is finished, students may find it helpful to take one or more of the following courses, which provide instruction on more advanced topics:  

• HUDM 6030   Multilevel and longitudinal data analysis
• HUDM 6055   Latent structure analysis 
• ​​HUDM 5133 Casual Inference Program Evaluation

Breadth Requirement:  

All doctoral students must take at least one course for a minimum of 3 points in each of the following four areas listed below. The courses must be other than courses required as part of the degree program core. Students should consult with their advisors about whether specific courses meet program requirements.  Examples of suitable courses are included below.Students may also consult the TC course catalog for other examples. Note that courses used to fill the Breadth/Foundation course requirements may not be used to fulfill requirements in another area. 

Biological Basis of Behavior:

BBS   5068 Brain & behavior I and BBS 5069 Brain and behavior II (total 3 points)

MSTC 5000 Neurocognitive Models of Information Processing

BBSN 5007 Neuroscience Applications to Education

Cognitive Basis of Behavior:

CCPX 5020 Cognition, emotion, and culture

HBSK 5096 Psychology of memory

HUDK 4015 Psychology of thinking

HUDK 4029 Human cognition and learning

HUDK 5024 Language development

HUDK 5025 Spatial thinking

HUDK 5030 Visual explanations

HUDK 5090 Psychology of language and reading

Social Cultural Factors & Individual Differences:

BBSN 5152  Neuroscience, Ethics and the Law

BBSN 5193  Neuroscience of Adversity

HBSK 5031 Family as context for child development

HUDK 5029 Personality development and socialization across the lifespan

HUDK 5121 Children's social and emotional development in context

HUDK 5125 Cross cultural psychology

HUDK 6036 Child and family policy I

ORLJ  5017  Small group intervention: Theory and method

ORLJ  5106  Psychological aspects of organizations

ORLJ  5540  Proseminar in social and organizational psychology

Measurement:  

HUDM 5059   Psychological measurement 

HUDM 6051   Psychometric theory

HUDM 6055   Latent structure analysis   

Proseminar Requirement: 

Doctoral Students are required to enroll in proseminar during the fall and spring of their first year. The course is taken for 3 credits per semester, totaling 6 credits for the year. This course covers various topics integral to the doctoral experience and is a great way for students to present their work amongst peers and gain feedback. 

HUD 6500 Doctoral Proseminar (2 semesters)

Out-of-Department Requirement:  

Doctoral students must take at least three courses outside the Department. 

Course Assistantship Requirement:   

Doctoral students must be a course assistant for two master's-level courses, which may include HUDK 5324, the Master's Practica. For more information, please visit the Department of Human Development located in Grace Dodge Hall, room 453.

Certification Papers:  

The two advanced requirements that are met prior to presenting a dissertation proposal are an original theoretical paper and an original empirical research paper in the student's area of specialization. For more information, please visit the Department of Human Development located in Grace Dodge Hall, room 453. 

Certification Examination: 

As part of their certification requirements, all students must take a three-hour examination in research methods. 

Post-Certification Requirement:

Ph.D. candidates must take a minimum of 15 additional points after meeting certification requirements, including the points enrolled during the semester in which certification occurs.   

Dissertation Seminar: 

For a dissertation proposal to be approved, the student must enroll in Dissertation Seminar (HUDK 7501). Dissertation Seminar is typically taken for one semester--the semester in which the student wishes to finish the dissertation proposal and have it approved. It can be taken for a maximum of two semesters. If the proposal is not approved in the first semester, the student must register for a second semester. After the approval of the proposal or the completion of the second semester, whichever comes first, the student proceeds automatically into registration for Dissertation Advisement. 

Dissertation Proposal Hearing:

When the student and the advisor have agreed on a proposal for dissertation research, a proposal hearing will be scheduled. 

Advanced Seminar: 

After completing the collection of data, the student will request that an Advanced Seminar be scheduled. The purpose of the Advanced Seminar is for the committee to review data and their analysis before the final Dissertation Defense. 

Dissertation Defense:

Requirements for the scheduling of the dissertation defense and composition of the dissertation committee can be found in the requirements bulletin for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (obtainable from the Office of Doctoral Studies). 

M.Phil. Degree:

The M. Phil is an en passant degree awarded to those nearing the completion of the Ph.D. degree. The student contacts the Office of Doctoral Studies to file for the award of the degree. 

To receive the M. Phil., the student must satisfactorily complete the following requirements: 

File an approved "Program Plan of Study" with the Office of Doctoral Studies 

Complete at least six courses with evaluative grades under Teachers College registration

Pass the Certification Examination 

Complete an approved empirical research paper 

Complete an approved theoretical research paper 

Complete all 75 points of coursework required for the degree. 

Please note: Students must submit a copy of their Program Plan of Study and both research papers to the Department of Human Development for record keeping purposes. 

Transfer Credit:    

Relevant graduate courses with earned grades of B or higher taken in other accredited graduate schools to a maximum of 30 points, or 45 points if completed in another Faculty of Columbia University, may be accepted toward the minimum point requirement for the Ph.D. degree. For more information, please contact the Transfer Credit Coordinator in the Registrar's Office. 

Satisfactory Progress: 

Students are expected to make satisfactory progress toward the completion of degree requirements. If satisfactory progress is not maintained, a student may be dismissed from the program. Where there are concerns about satisfactory progress, students will be informed by the program faculty.

• View Other Degrees

Program Director : Dr. Kimberly Noble

Contact Person: Jonathan Chastain

Phone: (212) 678-4190

Email: hud1@tc.columbia.edu

Developmental psychology

Psychology phd specialization.

Uncover risk and resilience developmental processes from infancy to older adulthood with ASU's doctoral program in psychology, specializing in developmental psychology.

How to apply

PhD program details

Specialization description

Degree awarded: psychology, phd.

Developmental psychology is one of six degree specializations offered through ASU's PhD program in psychology. Students work alongside renowned faculty to understand development, researching topics like:

• The role of curiosity in learning
• Bilingual language development
• Relations among stress, sleep and mental health
• Violence in romantic relationships
• Genetic risk for alcohol and drug use
• Translational research on psychosocial health
• Mental and physical health across the lifespan

This specialization combines basic science with community-based interventions, utilizing modern analysis methods to study behaviors, emotions, cognition and the underlying genetic and biological mechanisms.

The Department of Psychology fosters a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to engage in a unique core curriculum and hands-on research that spans all areas of psychology. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in people's lives.

Important dates

• September 1: Fall 2025 application opens.
• December 5: Fall 2025 application deadline.

Students must submit ASU’s graduate application and the Department of Psychology’s Slideroom application to be considered for admission.

Faculty and research labs

Study with expert, student-focused professors who are leaders in developmental psychology.

Dr. Viridiana Benitez

Learning and development lab.

The Learning and Development lab focuses on understanding how cognition and experience shape word learning across development. Using behavioral experiments and observational methods, they work with infants, children and adults from monolingual and bilingual backgrounds. They aim to identify the factors that promote learning for children growing up in diverse language environments.

Explore the lab

View faculty profile

Dr. Leah Doane

Adolescent stress and emotion lab.

The Adolescent Stress and Emotion Lab studies how daily experiences affect physical and mental health. Using developmental psychology and biopsychosocial frameworks, they collect self-reports and measures hormones and sleep quality in real-life settings through ecological momentary assessment.

Dr. William Fabricius

Theory of mind and father and divorce labs.

The Theory of Mind and Father and Divorce Labs explore how children develop their understanding of the mental and physical worlds. They also study how father-child relationships impact children's long-term physical health, influencing social policy for divorced fathers and children.

Explore the labs

Dr. Thao Ha

@heart: healthy experiences across relationships and transitions lab.

Experiencing romantic relationships and feeling love for the first time is a profound experience for adolescents. The @HEART Lab investigates how adolescents learn to navigate romantic relationships and how these early relationship experiences contribute to their future wellbeing and relationships. They focus on technology’s transformative role (the good and bad) in romantic relationships, such as digital communication, social media, virtual and augmented reality, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Dr. Frank Infurna

Lifespan development lab.

The Lifespan Development Lab studies resilience to adversity, predictors of healthy aging and developmental processes in midlife. The lab investigates these phenomena through the application of contemporary longitudinal methodology to longitudinal panel surveys from across the World, intensive longitudinal designs and RCTs.

Dr. Kathy Lemery-Chalfant

Child emotion center.

The Child Emotion Center studies how early biological and environmental factors influence children's mental and physical health. Using twin studies and measures like genetics, physiology and behavior, investigate development and brain-behavior relationships to identify pathways to resilience. 

Dr. Candace Lewis

Bear: brain, epigenetics, and altered states research lab.

The BEAR Lab explores how our experiences impact our biology, focusing on epigenetic regulation of genes involved in brain development. They aim to understand how experiences shape cognition, mood and behavior, and how stress, trauma or connection affect mental health. They also study how psychedelics can positively influence mental health.

Dr. Kelsey Lucca

Emerging minds lab.

The Emerging Minds Lab investigates cognitive development and curiosity-driven learning in children aged 5 months to 9 years. Using behavioral experiments, naturalistic observations and looking-based paradigms, they study social cognition, communication and the influence of social and cultural factors on children.

Dr. Marisol Perez

Birhd: body image research and health disparities.

The BIRHD Lab explores the genetic, biological, psychophysiological, cultural and environmental factors influencing body image and eating behavior, focusing on their development toward unhealthy lifestyles. They continually translate their basic science research into clinical applications to improve health and quality of life across the lifespan.

Dr. Armando Piña

Courage lab.

The Courage Lab studies the development of anxiety in children and adolescents, using basic science approaches and creating interventions to test theoretical mechanisms of change. They aim to understand how courage, fear, and anxiety shape young lives, enhancing youth and family wellbeing through rigorous, practical research.

Dr. Jinni Su

Genes, environment, and youth development lab.

The Genes, Environment, and Youth Development Lab studies how genetic and environmental factors influence substance use and related behavioral and emotional health outcomes in adolescents and young adults from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Arizona Twin Project

Led by principal investigators Drs. Kathryn Lemery-Chalfant , Leah Doane , and Mary Davis , the Arizona Twin Project is a longitudinal study exploring gene-environment interplay in mental and physical health development from infancy to adolescence. It spans individual to sociocultural levels, focusing on sleep, pain, stress, health and academic competence. The diverse sample represents Arizona, providing insights into cultural influences on child outcomes.

Courses and electives

Introductory, skill and depth courses (30 credits).

Introductory courses.  Students are required to take at least one theory course and at least one developmental methods course. 

Skill courses. Four required courses that integrate quantitative methodologies into students' work.

Depth courses. A minimum of four courses — with at least two from developmental faculty — that make meaningful contributions to students' developmental psychology training.

Electives (6 credits)

Elective breadth courses. Students are required to take at least two graduate-level courses from other areas within the department or at ASU. These courses are designed to expand students' perspectives and can cover topics like:

Social psychology

• Cognitive science
• Biological bases of human behavior
• ... and more! 

Professional development (6 credits)

Professional development. All students must take at least two courses aimed at enhancing professional growth. A class on professional issues in psychology is required. Additional course options may include:

• Supervised teaching
• Grant writing
• Professional writing and reviewing
• .. and more! 

Research and dissertation (42 credits)

Research seminar and research hours.  Students enroll in milestone courses where they complete independent study and meet regularly with a faculty member to discuss assignments and conduct research.

Dissertation.  Supervised research including literature review, research, data collection and analysis, and writing.

Graduate students in the developmental psychology training are expected to complete 84 credit hours, half of which are research and conference. Courses cover theory, methods, advanced statistics, professional development, general psychology breadth courses and depth developmental psychology courses.

Student Handbook

What career is calling you?

Our graduates work with individuals of all ages in diverse settings, including nonprofits, government agencies, schools, technology and start-ups. Here are a few examples of careers with a doctoral degree in developmental psychology:

Data scientist

Director of practice and validation

Management fellow

Product specialist

Research analyst

Research and evaluation program specialist

Research psychologist

UX researcher

The developmental psychology specialization trains the next generation of leaders in both academic and applied settings. We invite talented individuals to join and contribute to our dynamic ASU community.

Get in touch

• For questions about the specialization, email the developmental psychology area head, Dr. Frank Infurna, directly at [email protected] . 

Other specialized areas of study

Behavioral neuroscience and comparative psychology, clinical psychology, cognititve science, quantitive research methods.

Search NYU Steinhardt

Phd, developmental psychology.

The 39- to 51-credit PhD in Developmental Psychology provides you with the training in developmental theories and research skills required to advance scientific understandings of development in context. Training emphasizes the intersection of biology, culture, and context across domains of social, cognitive, language, and emotional development. You will apply a variety of methods (e.g., physiological, experimental, observational, and interviews) to study individual and environmental influences on development, preparing them to conquer a career in research settings such as academia, foundations, think tanks, industry, and interventions and programs that serve children and families. 

Core Course Sequence

The curriculum for the PhD program in Developmental Psychology provides you with opportunities to take courses in developmental theory and research, gain strong training in research methods, and acquire professional development skills necessary for building and being part of a broader scientific community. The course curriculum includes coverage of developmental content areas, research methods, research practicum, and participation in colloquia. The program of study provides you with opportunities to gain expertise in a programmatic research area and to acquire the skills for professional growth and development. 

Sample Electives

You will have the opportunity to take several electives in research methods and multivariate analysis, equipping them with the skills needed to engage in rigorous developmental science and contribute to the field. Electives include topics such as cross-cultural research methods, case study and ethnographic inquiry, methods for analysis of change, and supervised and unsupervised machine learning. 

Culminating Experience

The PhD in Developmental Psychology culminates in a doctoral dissertation that combines the theoretical and empirical contributions/findings you generated during your research in the program over your years of doctoral study. You will submit a three-paper dissertation, which includes at least two empirical data-based original studies (the third paper is often a conceptual or theoretical paper such as a synthesis and extension of the literature on a topic of expertise), a brief overview, and conclusions. After passing the methods comprehensive exam, successfully defending the comprehensive paper, and filing a doctoral candidacy form, students turn to incorporate the knowledge and skills they gained throughout the program into the preparation and completion of the dissertation.

Curricular Requirements

Program requirements.

Students holding a master's degree or graduate credits in developmental psychology or related field complete 39-48 credits; the total required credits are determined on admission based on alignment of previous coursework with program curriculum. Students admitted with a BA/BS must complete 51 credits.

Credits dependent on previous graduate work; determined by admission.

Students admitted with a master's degree complete 6 credits.

Taken for 0 credits.

Other Program Requirements

Students are expected to participate in a ctive research involvement and attendance at weekly research colloquia, and complete candidacy exams, a dissertation proposal, and  a data-based dissertation and oral defense.

Sample Plan of Study

APSY-GE 3020 Research Practicum in Developmental Psychology is taken 3 times for credit, and 3 times for 0 credit.

APSY-GE 3023 The Developmental Psychology Seminar: Current Topics in Developmental Science is taken for 0 credits.

Take the Next Step

Advance your personal and professional journey – apply to join our community of students.

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Department of Psychology

• Graduate Programs
• Developmental Psychology (Ph.D.)

Doctor of Philosophy in Developmental Psychology

• Psychological Science (M.A.)
• Psychology and Law (M.A./J.D.)
• Clinical Psychology (Ph.D.)

The Department of Psychology formally established a Ph.D. program in Developmental Psychology (formerly Human Development) in 1965. Areas of study include the full spectrum of the human lifespan. This program has produced nearly 75 Ph.D. graduates, most of whom are now active researchers in university or government laboratory settings. Graduates can be found at colleges such as Lafayette or Smith and at universities such as Rutgers or Kansas State. Many are at government laboratories such as the National Institute of Mental Health, and others do policy studies for private sector firms.

The Developmental Psychology Ph.D. program provides students with a broad base of knowledge in the science of psychology, and human development in particular. Students learn to conduct cutting edge developmental research, understand and analyze developmental change within complex systems, work with diverse populations, and appreciate both basic and applied research. The program prepares students for careers as researchers, teachers, advocates, and more.

Specific requirements include successful completion of the following: (1) Developmental Psychology core classes, plus those recommended outside the program; (2) Suggested sequence of courses in statistics-methods in order to develop competence to design, collection, and analyze complex developmental data; (3) Research apprenticeship; (4) Empirical MA thesis; (5) Ph.D. Comprehensive examination; (6) Dissertation; (7) Completion of all other University and Departmental requirements.

Resources and Experiences

Students may earn a focus in Children, Families, and Cultures (CFC) , which prepares them to contribute to the welfare of children and families within our multicultural society. Our mission is to assist students in becoming well informed about the developmental and sociocultural issues impacting children and families today, design and conduct theoretically grounded research, and translate knowledge into useful applications and policy. The CFC faculty is committed to progressing towards these goals by providing quality training, coursework, research and mentorship.

Students in the program will be expected to be actively involved in developing their research interests and working with their mentors on research projects. There are many opportunities to become involved in research and these efforts are supported at the departmental, school, and university levels, such as travel to present research findings at conferences.

Our program has made the GRE General Test optional for admission to the fall 2024 class. Applications without GRE scores will be given equal consideration. If applicants have GRE scores, they may submit scores and they will be considered by the admissions committee.

Graduate Admission

Apply for acceptance in our master's, doctoral, and joint-degree graduate programs in Psychology.

PhD in Psychology – Developmental Psychology Shape the Future of Psychology

Credit Hours

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Explore Human Development with Liberty’s Online PhD in Psychology

Liberty University’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology – Developmental Psychology provides an in-depth study of human growth and development that can help give you advanced insight into human psychology. Through rigorous research training that can prepare you for a career in academia and research, Liberty’s online PhD in Psychology is ideal for students who want to bring new knowledge of human behavior to the field and find new ways to help people heal, grow, and thrive.

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

With Liberty’s PhD in Psychology, you will have the option of attending on-campus intensives that allow you to meet faculty and other students while you develop your professional and research skills. Unlike many other online doctoral programs in psychology, our students can be a part of an online and on-campus community.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Online PhD in Psychology?

Our online PhD in Psychology can be completed 100% online, providing the flexibility you need to complete your doctorate around your busy schedule. This program also provides a community of psychology professionals and the ability to take optional on-campus intensive courses to allow you to connect in person with your peers and professors.

Liberty integrates a biblical worldview foundation into this program’s in-depth study of developmental psychology. This perspective in your research and practical training in psychology can help you develop professional and academic excellence without compromising an ethical appreciation for human life.

With our online PhD in Psychology, you can learn effective clinical techniques, advanced behavioral theory, and develop your research and writing expertise. You can benefit from a thorough study of human thought and behavior while developing your own research to further the field’s body of knowledge in developmental psychology.

Earning a PhD in Psychology online with Liberty means that you will be trained to engage with research and psychological practice critically and biblically. If you want to pursue a deeper understanding of human growth and development while respecting the inherent value of human life, Liberty’s PhD in Psychology – Developmental Psychology is the program you need.

What Will You Study in Our Doctorate in Psychology – Developmental Psychology?

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

Through this program, you will:

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

Our goal is to help you become a thought leader on a variety of topics related to the human experience. With the specialization in developmental psychology, you will investigate specialized approaches to developmental issues in child psychology, develop an approach to treating adults with childhood trauma, and establish expertise in developmental growth studies.

You can enter the world of psychological research while practicing and offering insights based on biblical foundations of truth that can help patients heal and thrive.

Potential Career Opportunities

• Collegiate professor
• Independent consultant
• Organizational mentor/consultant
• Researcher/Writer

Featured Courses

• PSYC 700 – Foundations of Doctoral Study in Psychology
• PSYC 710 – Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview
• PSYC 775 – Teaching of Psychology
• PSYC 830 – Child and Adolescent Development in the Digital Age

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Behavioral Sciences .
• View the Graduate Behavioral Sciences Course Guides (login required) .

Degree Completion Plan

Not sure what to choose?

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

• Tuition & Aid

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

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

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Admission Information for Liberty’s Doctorate in Psychology

Admission requirements.

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

Preliminary Acceptance

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

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

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

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

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Military Tuition Discount

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

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• Psychology Programs

What Can I Do With a PhD in Psychology? – PhD in Psychology Career Options

Professionals who earn their Ph.D. in psychology have many more career options available to them than Masters level and Bachelors prepared individuals.

Not only are incomes generally higher with a Ph.D. but jobs are more plentiful and varied after the completion of doctoral level training. Also, in order to actually be considered a psychologist, a doctoral degree in psychology is generally mandatory .

Doctoral prepared professionals generally choose between applied psychology careers and research oriented careers . Applied psychology careers consist of the professional delivering psychological services directly to clients.

Psychologists deals with the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. They also frequently provide preventative services for various entities. Some psychologists also apply psychological theories to help businesses overcome challenges and improve workplace productivity.

Other doctoral level professionals choose to dedicate their careers to conducting research. In many universities, doctoral level faculty only spend a small amount of time teaching classes as they spend the majority of their time engaged in research. They often manage laboratories, recruit research trainees, and publish their findings in academic journals.

Research psychologists also spend a lot of time giving talks about their research findings, attending conferences, and more experienced professionals are sometimes called upon to give peer reviews for well-respected academic and professional journals.

Additionally, many research psychologists also find themselves writing grant applications to get funding for their research projects.

What are the Career Options With a PhD in Psychology?

Listed below are some of the popular career options that you can pursue with a PhD in psychology:

Clinical Psychologist

Industrial organizational psychologist, forensic psychologist, rehabilitation psychologist, experimental psychologist, school psychologist.

• Sports Psychologist
• Educational Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• Child Psychologist
• Mental Health Psychologist

Clinical psychologists often work in private practice providing evaluations and treatment for individuals who are experiencing mental health issues. However, you will also find a significant amount of these professionals working in hospitals, clinics, residential facilities, and other institutions that provide mental health services. A clinical psychologist in these settings might be a practitioner or an administrator.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical psychologists earn an average mean wage of $102,740 annually, as of May 2023.

Companies hire industrial-organizationalpPsychologists to develop strategies to increase productivity and improve employee retention rates. These professionals focus on organizational structure, employee recruitment and selection, job satisfaction, and the development of better machines and systems for employee comfort. Industrial-organizational psychologists identify methods that work best in the workplace and make recommendations for improvement.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average mean wage of $144,610 annually, as of May 2023.

Forensic psychologists take psychological insights and apply that to legal matters. This specialized area of psychology focuses on criminal and civil matters to include law enforcement, jury selection, probation and parole, victim advocacy, family law, mental status competency, risk assessments, civil commitments, juvenile delinquency, insurance claims, and many other areas of the justice system.

Careers for forensic psychologists are diverse and can include functioning as a court consultant, providing mental health services in correctional facilities, working with law enforcement, or providing victim advocacy.

Although a specific wage for a forensic psychologist was not noted, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians who also serve as Expert Witnesses, earn an average mean wage of $147,585 annually, as of January 2024.

Rehabilitation psychologists work with people who have suffered a significant loss or are struggling with adjusting to life with a disability. These professionals focus on the psychological aspects of loss, disability, and rehabilitation.

Typical clients could include someone who has recently become a paraplegic, is dealing with cancer, or is experiencing a chronic medical condition. Practitioners give their clients the support that they need as they adjust to their new life with the condition.

Researchers in the field of rehabilitation psychology explore how various factors, including biological, social, and environmental issues, affect people with disabilities and other chronic illnesses.

According to ZipRecruiter, the related field of rehabilitation counselor earns an average mean wage of $95,854 annually, as of January 2024.

Experimental psychologists are professionals who specialize in the study of human behavior and cognition. Their research generally explores thinking, learning, attention, motivation, and other cognitive functions. Although they do work with humans, they also study animals such as rats, monkeys, and pigeons.

Experimental psychologists can work in research settings, as consultants for businesses, and are even called upon to develop strategies to help lessen the psychological impact of high intensity training on military personnel.

School psychologists are employed by public school districts, private schools, and learning centers to help students overcome challenges related to disabilities, emotional issues, social adjustment, or other behavioral problems that impede learning. They evaluate the effectiveness of the educational process for students and use available resources as well new strategies to help students improve performance.

School psychologists also help students indirectly by working with teachers, parents, and school administrators to create individualized educational programs for students who are struggling to learn.

In many school districts, they also help administrators with the development of programs for Gifted learners. The goal of school psychologists in this role is to support teachers and parents in implementing individualized instructional strategies for students.

Some professionals specialize in working with specific groups of students such as children with Learning Disabilities, Gifted learners, or Adult learners.

According to ZipRecruiter, school psychologists earn an average mean wage of $92,813 annually, as of January 2024.

Sports psychologists are qualified professionals who help athletes to overcome problems, improve performance and achieve their goals. They draw their knowledge from many fields such as physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and kinesiology.

Sports psychologists explore the link between the psychological and physical factors that affect performance and try to establish what issues are preventing athletes from performing at full potential.

Their role may also involve acting as a consultant, a trainer or a therapist. Therapy may be needed for issues such as career transitions, eating disorders or off-field problems that effect on-field performance.

Working as a trainer may include assistance with rehabilitation after an injury. Athletic teams often consult with sports psychologists or employ one to help with various issues such as group dynamics and leadership issues.

Some sports psychologists become researchers who explore issues such as factors that lead to success, the effects of athletic participation on individuals or the psychological effects of a physical injury.

According to the American Psychological Association’s (APA), sports psychologists can expect to earn between $60,000 and $180,000 a year, with some annual salaries reaching $100,000.

What is the Job Outlook for Psychology Careers?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that although the employment growth of psychologists is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, career prospects are far better for those who have a doctoral degree in psychology.

Related Reading

• How to Prepare for a Career in Psychology
• Top Psychology PhD Programs That Don’t Require GRE
• What is the Difference Between a Master’s and a PhD in Psychology
• Associate Degrees
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• Addiction Counselor
• Criminal Psychologist
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• General Psychologist
• Health Psychologist
• Industrial-Organizational
• See More Careers
• Applied Psychology
• Business Psychology
• Child Psychology
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• Educational Psychology
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• Sports Psychology
• See More Programs
• Clinical Psychology Degree
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• School Counseling Degree
• Behavioral Psychologist Career
• Clinical Psychologist Career
• Cognitive Psychologist Career
• Counseling Psychologist Career
• Forensic Psychologist Career
• School Psychologist Career
• Social Psychologist Career

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]

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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Your roadmap to PhD success: freshman year advice for aspiring researchers

By JOHN CINTRON | August 19, 2024

COURTESY OF JOHN CINTRON

Cintron sitting at his workspace on the 9th floor lab, part of the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at the Broad Institute.

First off, welcome to the Nest! As a freshman, you’re probably not even sure what you want to pursue yet or you might simply be feeling overwhelmed by all the possibilities you can take with your life and career path. As someone who’s tried it all — Pre-Med, Economics, Consulting, Marketing, Filmmaking, Engineering and much more — I can safely say that acquiring a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is the end goal that I intend to achieve.

To apply for a doctorate program, you need to maintain excellent grades and demonstrate your ability to manage a rigorous course load with other extracurricular and leadership activities. However, joining a lab (wet: manipulating liquids, biological matter and chemicals or dry: computational, physics and engineering) and beginning to work on actual research at university is arguably the most important thing you can do as a pre-PhD, pre-MD-PhD or even pre-med freshman. This will not be your average Chemistry lab experience as it will allow you opportunities to partake in independent research.

Independent research has been my greatest academic passion for as long as I can remember, from winning high school science fairs to participating in various forms of undergraduate research. As an undergraduate, I am motivated to pursue independent research in order to gain as much exposure and training as possible before beginning a Ph.D. program. I am interested in working in a research lab at Hopkins, not only because of how renowned the institution is for research, but also to make the most of my college education. 

Here’s what you need to do to get into a research lab as a freshman. Be ready to scour the internet; look around at all of the research labs Hopkins offers. Find what you think suits your current interests. Look into ForagerOne , an online platform designed specifically to connect undergraduate students with Faculty conducting research. You can look into department websites as well for faculty research profiles.You already made it here, which was the hardest part! Hopkins, being the nation’s oldest and best-funded research university, allows you access to labs that conduct cutting-edge research in their respective fields, so there is no shortage of opportunities.

​​Once you find a lab that resonates with you, reach out to the principal investigator (PI) of that lab by using your Hopkins email. Cold emails truly work best, as long as you keep it concise and make it known that you’re willing to commit to the research. You’ll end up meeting the PI or a post-doctoral researcher in the lab, which is where you can each lay out your expectations to one another (in terms of research, time commitment, recommendations, etc.) and see if the lab is a good fit for you. You’re going to want to start this process sooner rather than later!

Even if you end up realizing you don’t have a passion for or enjoy the lab you’re in as a freshman, that’s perfectly normal; you simply need experience. Many students switch labs for sophomore year and beyond!

Additionally, a research experience at Hopkins can be helpful to secure your dream summer research experience. My research experiences at Hopkins allowed me to realize my passion for working in the lab, even in the midst of my busy class schedule. I realized being a part of a summer research experience would allow me to put a 100% focus on my research and cultivate my interests further. 

You will not only be able to gain practical skills from your lab, but you can also ask for a letter of recommendation from your supervisor. Most REU programs value your letter of recommendation the most, so you need to make good impressions as a student researcher in your lab as early as possible, since applications have due dates around January/February.

This past summer, I was given the amazing opportunity to conduct research in the field of Neuroimmunology at the Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard as a participant in the Broad Summer Research Program. I gained so many useful skills from this REU, including improving my scientific writing, quickly learning extensive information about my specific field of research, creating an engaging research poster and delivering effective scientific presentations. 

REUs allow you to use your summer to conduct meaningful research and expand your network. The wide array of skills I gained from participating in an REU will allow me to more thoroughly engage and contribute ideas in my research lab back at Hopkins!

Again, good luck as you begin your academic journey, and welcome to the Nest!

John Cintron is a sophomore from Fort Myers, Fla. majoring in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. He is a News Writer for The News-Letter.

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Master’s Degree in Psychology: Beginner’s Guide

A Master's Degree in Psychology is typically a 2-year graduate degree that provides advanced study in human behavior and mental processes, building upon an undergraduate psychology degree. This degree offers specializations such as counseling, applied, or forensic psychology, and can be a stepping stone to various career paths or further academic pursuits, with studying abroad offering diverse perspectives and opportunities.

Highlights:

• Why Pursue a Master's in Psychology: A Master's in Psychology can open doors to various career opportunities, including roles such as therapist or counselor, researcher, human resources specialist, market researcher, educator, and forensic consultant.
• Types of Master's in Psychology: The focus of a Master's in Psychology can vary widely, with common specializations including clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, school psychology, experimental psychology, and forensic psychology.
• Why Study Psychology Abroad: Studying for a Master's in Psychology abroad offers global exposure to different cultures and their impact on human behavior, networking opportunities with international peers and professionals, and enhanced career prospects with a globally recognized degree.

Through  Yocket Premium , we have got you covered. Here, we have expert counselors with years of experience to guide you through every aspect of your higher education. Also, helped 10,000+ students get admitted into top universities around the world. If you are interested in pursuing master’s in Psychology, but you’re confused about where and how to apply- don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Why Pursue a Msc. in Psychology?

A Master's in Psychology offers academic depth and practical application, providing a deeper understanding of human behavior, critical thinking development, and enhanced problem-solving skills.

Career advancement is a significant benefit, qualifying you for higher-level positions, increasing earning potential, and enabling specialization in areas like clinical, industrial-organizational, or counseling psychology.

Additionally, personal growth is fostered through empathy, improved communication, and better interpersonal relationships.

Potential career paths include clinical, counseling, industrial-organizational, and school psychology, research, human resources, and marketing.

Pursuing a Master's in Psychology abroad combines academic excellence with cultural immersion and professional growth. It broadens your perspective on cultural diversity and global psychological theories, while providing access to unique programs, research opportunities, and internships.

Types of Msc. in Psychology

The field of psychology is vast, and so are the options for a Master's degree. Here are some of the most common types:

Suggested: Best Universities for Psychology in USA

Best Universities for Pursuing Msc. in Psychology

Here are some globally renowned universities offering exceptional psychology programs:

Application Requirements for Msc. in Psychology

The application process for a Master's in Psychology abroad involves several common elements:

Bachelor's Degree: In psychology or a related field.

Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 from professors or professionals.

Statement of Purpose: An essay outlining academic and career goals.

English Language Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native speakers.

Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT scores, if required.

Resume/CV: Detailing academic and professional experience.

Curriculum and Coursework for Msc. in Psychology

The specific curriculum for a Master's in Psychology can vary significantly depending on the program's focus, whether it's clinical, counseling, industrial-organizational, or research-oriented. However, there are some core subjects that are commonly included:

Core Courses:

Specialized Courses:

Suggested: Masters in Psychology in UK: Complete Guide

Career Prospects of Msc. in Psychology

A Master's in Psychology offers a wide range of career opportunities, with specific roles varying based on the chosen specialization. 

From the Desk of Yocket

A Master's in Psychology provides a strong foundation for a fulfilling and impactful career. It offers a versatile skill set, opens doors to diverse opportunities, and equips you with a deep understanding of human nature. 

Searching for the best global university for Master’s in Psychology can be a task.If you’re looking for further help with university shortlisting or any other higher education issues, hop on a FREE call with our Yocket counselors today to clear your doubts!

Frequently Asked Questions on pursuing a Msc. in Psychology

How to study master's in psychology?

In order to be eligible to apply for MSc must hold a BA or B.Sc . Psychology degree from a recognized university with an aggregate of at least 50% marks. However, students holding any other degree such as Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), BA Sociology, B.Sc . Home Science, B.A. Philosophy or B.

What experience do you need for psychology masters?

You will most likely also need research experience to get into a graduate level Psychology program.

What is the average duration of a Master's program in psychology?

Usually 2 years, depending on the program and whether it's full-time or part-time.

What is the difference between a Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MS) in Psychology?

MA programs focus on research and theory, while MS programs emphasize applied skills and practical knowledge.

Do I need a license to practice as a psychologist?

Licensure requirements vary by state or country. Typically, clinical and counseling psychologists need additional education and supervised experience to obtain a license.

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