Aug 25, 2025  
Academic Catalog 2025-2026 
    
Academic Catalog 2025-2026

Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Psychological Science, PhD (with optional focus area)


Our PhD degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Psychological Science focuses on applied research. It affords students the opportunity to become experts in a subfield of psychology. Students learn the core principles of psychology and then use that foundation to scientifically answer real-world questions.

Students must also hone their knowledge of a specific area within psychology (e.g., teaching psychology, positive psychology, psychology and the law) as they progress through the curriculum. The program emphasizes methodology and analysis, and students are expected to advance their research agenda every term.

The objective of the program is to prepare graduates for careers as full-time faculty at colleges and universities, independent researchers in a variety of settings (universities, research institutes, the government, business organizations, etc.), and as consultants. It should be noted that this program does not prepare students for clinical practice nor does it make graduates eligible for professional licensure.

A pathway master’s is awarded upon completion of the core and research course areas listed below.

Required Coursework:


Effective date: 09/01/2025

Pathway MA Core


Towards fulfillment of the MA, complete these four core courses (16 credits).

Research Pathway MA Core


Towards fulfillment of the MA, complete these six research courses (21 credits).

Additional Required Research Courses


Complete all remaining courses (12 semester credits).

Area of Focus Electives


Students take any combination of 12 credits from the courses listed below and can concentrate their elective studies in the focus areas as listed. This allows students to individualize their doctoral programs and expand their professional expertise. 

Neuroscience Focus Area


Psychological Research Techniques Focus Area


Psychology and Justice Focus Area


Psychology and Well-Being Focus Area


Dissertation Milestones


18 credits total

Total Semester Credits: 79