PhD in Psychology & Behavioral Sciences in United States

Cognitive Neuroscience Admitting Program (CNAP)

The Cognitive Neuroscience Admitting Program (CNAP) at Duke University is an interdisciplinary graduate program administered by the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences (DIBS). It offers neuroscience graduate students a unique educational experience across multiple departments, guided by distinguished faculty. The program's mission is to train students from diverse backgrounds in innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to studying brain function and applying discoveries to societal and health challenges. CNAP prepares future leaders in neuroscience research and education through a flexible training model.

Doctor of Professional Counseling

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

California Southern University offers an online Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program designed to advance your knowledge in clinical topics and psychological research. The program emphasizes the practical application of psychological principles in professional settings. You can choose between two specializations: Applied Psychology (PsyD-AP) for non-clinical roles, or Psychology: Clinical Specialization (PsyD-CS) for those pursuing licensure. Both programs provide a strong foundation in psychological science and can be completed entirely online.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology

California Baptist University's Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology program trains students to become leaders in health service psychology. The curriculum emphasizes the practical application of clinical psychology principles, grounded in scientific research. Students engage in research teams, complete original empirical projects, and develop essential skills through coursework, practicum training, a full-time internship, a clinical competency exam, and a dissertation. The program aims to prepare graduates for entry-level practice in clinical psychology, equipping them to serve a diverse public ethically and effectively.

Doctoral Program in Psychology

The Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan offers a doctoral program designed to train students for careers in research and academia. The program focuses on advanced study and research within various areas of psychology. Students will engage in in-depth coursework, participate in research, and work closely with faculty mentors. The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories and methodologies, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the field.

Graduate Program in Neuroscience

The Graduate Program in Neuroscience at Brown University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education designed to train future leaders in the field. The program emphasizes close collaboration between students and faculty, allowing trainees to develop deep expertise in the biological, behavioral, and theoretical aspects of neuroscience. Research and training are conducted in well-funded laboratories utilizing cutting-edge technology to explore the complexities of the nervous system. The program aims to prepare scientists for impactful careers in research, teaching, and professional service, contributing to societal advancements in neuroscience.

Health Psychology PhD

Rice University offers a PhD program in Health Psychology, focusing on the intricate relationship between psychological factors and physical health. This program delves into how behaviors, emotions, and social contexts influence health, illness, and healthcare. Students will gain a deep understanding of health promotion, disease prevention, and the psychological aspects of managing chronic conditions. The curriculum is designed to equip students with advanced research methodologies and theoretical knowledge to contribute to the field.

Marriage and Family Therapy, DMFT (Online)

The Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) is a 56-unit professional doctorate designed for master's-trained MFTs. The program aims to deepen clinical expertise, develop skills in supervision and consultation, and foster leadership within the profession. It is a practice-oriented doctoral program that prepares graduates to offer advanced clinical services, supervise future therapists, consult for organizations, and contribute to evidence-based practice through applied scholarship. The curriculum emphasizes systemic, evidence-based assessments and interventions, and integrates ethical, legal, cultural, and spiritual considerations into advanced clinical work.

Ph.D. in Biobehavioral Health

The Ph.D. in Biobehavioral Health at Penn State is an interdisciplinary program that investigates the complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, environmental, and cultural factors influencing health and disease across the entire lifespan. The program focuses on three core training domains related to health, alongside essential training in statistics, research methods, ethics, and professional development. Students in this program engage in research that spans areas such as health and wellness, public health, global health, and health psychology. The program places a strong emphasis on diversity as a critical component for understanding and addressing health disparities, aiming to advance both equality and overall health outcomes.

Ph.D. in Practical Theology, Concentration in Spiritual Care and Counseling

This Ph.D. concentration focuses on advanced research and theory development at the intersection of theological studies, related disciplines like the social sciences, and caregiving practices. It aims to equip students with the skills to contribute to the growing understanding of the importance of spiritual care and counseling for human well-being. The program offers three distinct tracks: Clinical Spiritual Care, preparing graduates for roles in various community settings like chaplaincies and residential services; ACPE Supervision, training students to become certified supervisors in Clinical Pastoral Education; and Spiritually Integrative Psychotherapy, enabling graduates to provide advanced spiritual counseling and psycho-educational services.

Ph.D. in Psychology

The UCLA Department of Psychology offers a Ph.D. program designed to train researchers dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge in the field. The program prepares students for careers as researchers, college and university instructors, and professional research psychologists. It does not offer a separate Master's degree. Students specialize in one of several areas of emphasis.

PhD in Educational Psychology

The PhD in Educational Psychology program at PCOM is designed for working professionals seeking advanced training to make a positive impact on student outcomes. It follows a scholar-practitioner model, equipping individuals with a master's degree to gain deeper understanding of educational and psychological processes. The program focuses on research and data-based decision-making, allowing students to specialize in areas like neuropsychological assessment, cognitive behavior therapy, or applied behavior analysis, and develop a unique research program aligned with their professional goals. While graduates are not eligible for licensure as psychologists, the program prepares them for leadership roles in educational systems and teaching positions in higher education.

Psychology - PhD (Clinical Psychology - Research Focused)

Northwestern University offers a PhD program in Clinical Psychology within the Department of Psychology at the Evanston campus. This program is research-focused, aiming to train scholars and researchers capable of advancing knowledge at the forefront of the field. It is distinct from the scientist/practitioner program affiliated with the Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. Prospective students should be aware that faculty members have varying capacities for taking on new graduate students each admission cycle. It is crucial to check the faculty recruiting status before applying to ensure your interests align with available mentorship. The program seeks highly motivated students with diverse backgrounds who are passionate about psychological research and possess a strong desire to contribute to the field through rigorous academic and research endeavors.

Psychology Doctoral Program

The Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan offers a doctoral program designed to train future leaders and researchers in the field. The program focuses on providing a strong foundation in psychological science, with opportunities for specialization in various areas. Students engage in rigorous academic coursework, extensive research experience, and close collaboration with faculty. Admission to the doctoral program is highly competitive, and the department seeks applicants with a strong academic record, demonstrated research potential, and a clear alignment with the research interests of the faculty. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, and other professional settings where advanced knowledge of psychology is required. The University of Michigan is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within its graduate programs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the department's research areas and faculty profiles to identify potential mentors whose work aligns with their own academic and career aspirations.

Psychology PhD

The Psychology PhD program at UC Davis offers a comprehensive doctoral education designed to prepare students for research and academic careers. All admitted students are guaranteed full funding for five years, encompassing teaching assistantships, graduate student researcher positions, and fellowships. This funding package covers tuition, fees, non-resident supplemental tuition, and student health insurance.

Psychology PhD

Brown University's graduate program in Psychology is designed to prepare students for careers as scientists and teachers who will make contributions to society in academic and applied settings. The Department of Cognitive and Psychological Sciences is dedicated to the multidisciplinary study of mind, brain, behavior, and language, offering two Ph.D. programs: Cognitive Science and Psychology. Students are accepted by the department and choose their specific program during their first year. The department does not offer terminal master's degrees or programs in clinical, counseling, school, or applied psychology. The Psychology Ph.D. program aims to equip students with broad competence in psychological theories and experimental methods, fostering expertise in specialized research areas. Study plans are highly individualized, with research and coursework decisions made in close collaboration with a research advisor and graduate committee. Students are encouraged to explore different research areas and collaborate with faculty outside their primary advisory. This program guarantees five years of financial support, typically through teaching or research assistantships, with opportunities for summer stipends and external fellowships.

Quantitative and Qualitative Methodology, Measurement and Evaluation (QUERIES) PhD

The PhD program in Quantitative and Qualitative Methodology, Measurement and Evaluation (QUERIES) is housed within the Department of Educational Psychology. This program focuses on the development and application of new methodologies in measurement, statistics, evaluation, and research design. Faculty and students are actively involved in multiple research activities within these specializations.

School Psychology PsyD

The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in School Psychology program at PCOM is designed to prepare doctoral-level school psychologists. It follows a practitioner-scholar model, emphasizing applied behavior analysis, cognitive behavioral intervention, and comprehensive psychoeducational assessment. The program aims to equip graduates to provide ethical, empirically-based services that promote the learning and well-being of children and families, with a strong focus on cultural sensitivity and diversity. Graduates will be prepared to serve in schools, hospitals, community health clinics, and other mental health settings.

Social and Decision Neuroscience PhD Program

The Social and Decision Neuroscience PhD Program at Caltech is a highly interdisciplinary program focusing on the neural mechanisms underlying social behavior and decision-making. This program integrates methodologies and theories from neuroscience, economics, political science, and psychology to offer a comprehensive understanding of how the brain processes social information and makes choices. Students in this program engage in rigorous coursework, extensive research, and professional development activities. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in both social sciences and neuroscience, preparing graduates for advanced research and leadership roles in academia and beyond.

Social Psychology Graduate Program

Purdue University offers a leading doctoral program in Social Psychology within the Department of Psychological Sciences. This program is designed to provide comprehensive training in core areas of social psychology, including social cognition, social influence, prejudice and discrimination, group dynamics, and interpersonal relationships. The curriculum emphasizes research, offering students the opportunity to work closely with world-renowned faculty mentors on their research expertise. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects early in their training and have flexibility in choosing research areas. Teaching experience is also considered an important component of the graduate training.