Are you driven by a profound curiosity about the human mind and behavior? Do you aspire to contribute to the field of psychology through groundbreaking research and impactful teaching? The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Psychology at The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) offers a rigorous and enriching pathway for ambitious students like you to become leading scholars and scientists. This program provides advanced study and comprehensive research training across diverse areas within psychology, preparing graduates for impactful careers in academia and beyond.
Our doctoral program distinguishes itself by encompassing a broad spectrum of psychological specialties. Whether your interests lie in understanding human development across the lifespan, unraveling the complexities of cognitive processes, or exploring the nuances of social and personality dynamics, our program provides the depth and breadth to nurture your intellectual passions. We delve into both typical and clinical populations, from the earliest stages of infancy to the wisdom of older adulthood, ensuring a holistic and comprehensive understanding of the human experience.
From the very beginning of your doctoral journey, you will be immersed in hands-on research within our faculty mentors’ cutting-edge laboratories. Our department thrives on interdisciplinarity, fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. While our research spans numerous areas, we maintain a strong emphasis on three core domains:
- Developmental Psychology: Explore the fascinating trajectory of human growth and change. Our research in this area encompasses critical aspects of children’s development, including their social-emotional well-being, cognitive maturation, language acquisition, and the intricate interplay of these domains.
- Cognitive Psychology: Delve into the inner workings of the mind. We investigate fundamental cognitive processes such as attention, motivation, perception, learning, and memory. Our research extends to specialized areas like face perception, bridging basic science with practical applications, including the development of interventions to enhance cognitive function across different populations.
- Social and Personality Psychology: Examine the social world and individual differences that shape human behavior. Our faculty conduct research on cultural variations in socio-emotional processing, the complexities of moral decision-making, the dynamics of interpersonal relationships – from romantic partnerships to friendships – and critical investigations into health disparities influenced by social and personality factors.
Furthermore, a significant portion of our research labs are dedicated to studies with direct implications for clinical science. We investigate the profound effects of stress on overall health, the intricacies of adolescent mood disorders, and the nuances of social cognition in populations affected by autism and schizophrenia. Recognizing the critical role of quantitative skills in modern psychology, our program offers robust training in advanced statistical methodologies. You will gain expertise in techniques essential for contemporary psychological research, including dyadic group analyses, longitudinal growth curve modeling, multilevel modeling, and advanced multivariate analyses.
The School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences (BBS) at UT Dallas provides an exceptionally rich intellectual ecosystem for doctoral students in psychology. Our vibrant academic community is fostered through weekly lectures and research presentations featuring students, faculty, and distinguished visiting scholars. The school proudly hosts an annual colloquium series, inviting internationally renowned scientists to share their groundbreaking work, providing invaluable exposure to the forefront of psychological research. Moreover, our four specialized research centers regularly organize symposia and workshops, freely accessible to all doctoral students, further enriching your learning experience.
We are committed to supporting your professional development beyond the classroom and laboratory. Doctoral students receive dedicated funding to present their research findings at national and international professional meetings, fostering networking and dissemination of knowledge. Financial support is also available to facilitate your dissertation research, the culminating project of your doctoral studies. Furthermore, we offer diverse professional development opportunities, including avenues to hone your teaching skills, preparing you for future roles in academia.
For those interested in learning more about the faculty shaping our program, we encourage you to explore the Department of Psychology Faculty directory and discover the experts who will guide your doctoral journey.
State-of-the-Art Research Facilities
UT Dallas provides exceptional resources to support cutting-edge psychological research. The BBS offices and research facilities are strategically located on the Richardson campus and within centers in Dallas, near the renowned UT Southwestern Medical Center campus. These locations house state-of-the-art classrooms and specialized research laboratories designed for the study of neuroscience, psychology, and communication across the entire lifespan, encompassing both typical development and clinical populations.
Specifically, the PhD program in psychology boasts outstanding research facilities on the Richardson campus. These include laboratories equipped with advanced technologies for studying event-related potentials, eye tracking methodologies, infant visual and auditory preferences, child learning and development, parent-child interactions, and the complexities of adult interpersonal relationships. Furthermore, the school’s distinguished Center for Children and Families, situated at the Callier Center-Richardson location, extends research and outreach capabilities. This center hosts a wide array of clinical and community engagement activities centered around three core initiatives: promoting healthy families, strengthening interpersonal relationships, and enhancing children’s cognitive skills and learning abilities. Our strong partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, agencies, and schools significantly expand the scope of research opportunities available to our students, providing diverse and real-world research settings. Doctoral students also benefit from collaborative opportunities with faculty mentors affiliated with the esteemed Center for BrainHealth and the Center for Vital Longevity, further broadening their research horizons.
Program Curriculum and Degree Requirements
The PhD program in psychology is designed to be completed in four to five years and requires a minimum of 75 semester credit hours beyond a bachelor’s degree. Upon admission, students choose a concentration in one of four areas: developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social/personality psychology, or neuroscience. The program is structured to provide a comprehensive and rigorous academic experience, culminating in significant research contributions. Key milestones include a qualifying thesis research project, demonstrating your ability to conduct independent research, and a dissertation research project, representing your original and significant contribution to the field. Throughout your program, you will work closely with your faculty mentor and dissertation committee, receiving personalized guidance and support to successfully complete all program requirements and milestone projects.
For detailed information regarding specific degree requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in psychology, please consult the UT Dallas graduate catalog. For the most up-to-date information and any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected]. To explore the program’s specific courses, please visit the university’s CourseBook, CourseBook. Information on academic and university policies can be found through the Office of Graduate Studies academic and other policies.
Admissions Process and Requirements
The psychology admissions committee employs a holistic review process to evaluate each application. This comprehensive approach considers various factors to gain a well-rounded understanding of each applicant’s potential for success in our demanding doctoral program. Key factors in the evaluation include prior GPA, letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic abilities, quantitative and verbal scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) (note that GRE scores are currently waived for Fall 2022-25 applicants and are optional), and a thorough assessment of your statement of purpose. Crucially, admission is contingent upon a strong match between the applicant’s research interests and those of our esteemed faculty. Therefore, we strongly encourage prospective applicants to proactively identify faculty members whose research aligns with their own and to contact them to inquire about potential admission opportunities and mentorship.
Successful applicants typically possess an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. While completion of an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related field is highly recommended, it is not strictly required. Applicants without a prior degree in psychology should contact the program head to discuss any necessary prerequisite coursework to ensure adequate preparation for doctoral-level study. Importantly, a master’s degree is not a prerequisite for admission to our PhD program.
A complete application to the PhD program must include official academic transcripts from all prior institutions, GRE scores (if submitted), three letters of recommendation from qualified individuals who can evaluate your potential for doctoral-level research, and a compelling statement of purpose. The statement of purpose is an exceptionally important component of your application, providing you with the opportunity to articulate your previous research and professional experiences, your current research interests, and your future career aspirations within the field of psychology. International applicants are required to provide proof of English language proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores, meeting the University’s minimum requirements.
How to Apply
To begin your application journey, please visit the enrollment page of the UT Dallas Office of Graduate Admissions for detailed instructions on how to submit your application to the PhD program in psychology. The application portal provides step-by-step guidance and outlines all necessary materials.
To be considered for admission for the fall semester, completed applications must be received on or before December 1. Please note that we do not offer spring or summer admissions to the PhD program in psychology. You can conveniently track the status of your application through the university’s Orion program, check the status of your application.
For any questions regarding the application process, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Psychology Doctoral Program
School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences
The University of Texas at Dallas
800 W. Campbell Rd., GR41
Richardson, TX 75080
[email protected]
Graduate Application Fee Waiver Program
UT Dallas is committed to making graduate education accessible. The Office of Graduate Education and the Office of Admission and Enrollment offer a Graduate Application Fee Waiver Program for qualified participants (past or present). This program is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents applying for a PhD or Master’s degree at UT Dallas.
Financial Support and Aid
UT Dallas is dedicated to supporting our doctoral students in psychology. Full-time doctoral students receive financial support through competitive teaching or research assistantship stipends and tuition scholarships. All admitted students are automatically considered for these assistantship positions, ensuring broad access to funding opportunities.
For comprehensive information on financial aid for graduate students at UT Dallas, please visit the graduate admissions page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Financial Aid Available for PhD Students?
Yes! Financial support is a priority for our doctoral program. Full-time PhD students in psychology are awarded financial assistance through teaching or research assistantship stipends and tuition scholarships. Admission to the program automatically includes consideration for these funding sources, and the majority of admitted students receive some form of financial support. For more information on additional financial aid options for PhD students, please consult the UT Dallas Graduate Admissions website.
What is UT Dallas Like?
UT Dallas’ main campus is situated in Richardson, Texas, a vibrant city approximately 15 miles north of downtown Dallas. Several centers within the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences are located in Dallas, in close proximity to the UT Southwestern Medical School campus. Both Richardson and Dallas offer dynamic and diverse communities, brimming with opportunities for arts, culture, music, sports, and a wide array of recreational activities. We encourage you to explore the UT Dallas visitors website for more information about the University and campus life.
What are Richardson and Dallas Like?
Richardson and Dallas are located in one of the largest and most rapidly growing metropolitan areas in the United States, offering a rich tapestry of cultural diversity and economic opportunity. The Dallas area boasts an impressive 50,000 acres of public park land, providing ample green spaces and outdoor recreation. It is home to the nation’s largest urban arts district, featuring world-class symphony, opera, and art museums. Sports enthusiasts will find five major professional sports franchises to cheer for, alongside multiple entertainment districts and a thriving culinary scene. The DART rail system provides convenient public transportation connecting the suburbs of Plano and Richardson to the arts district, downtown Dallas, and Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport. While summers are warm, the average daily temperature is a comfortable 65 degrees during spring, fall, and winter, making for pleasant weather for much of the year. The area offers a reasonable cost of living and abundant sunshine, contributing to a high quality of life.
Where Should I Live?
Most doctoral courses are held on the main UT Dallas campus in Richardson. However, some courses may be offered at our Dallas locations, including the Callier Center for Communication Disorders, the Center for Brain Health, or the Center for Vital Longevity. Similarly, teaching or research assistantship duties may be located on the main Richardson campus or at one of the Dallas centers. Given the potential for varying class and work locations, choosing a place to live can be flexible. While public transportation is improving, commuting by car remains relatively easy, and many students opt to live in areas situated between Richardson and Dallas for convenient access to both locations. Some student housing is available on the main campus in Richardson, although on-campus housing primarily caters to undergraduate students. We recommend utilizing online search engines to explore housing options that align with your budget and preferred location. The program office can also provide valuable information and recommendations based on the experiences of current doctoral students.
What is the Admissions Process Like?
We strongly encourage applicants to proactively contact potential faculty mentors prior to submitting their application materials. The admissions committee conducts a holistic review of applications, considering GPA, GRE scores (if submitted), letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Crucially, we assess the alignment between the applicant’s research interests and those of our faculty, as well as the availability and willingness of a faculty member or mentoring team to supervise a new PhD student.
Before final admission decisions are made, promising candidates are invited to visit UT Dallas to meet with prospective faculty mentors, tour their laboratories, and experience our vibrant research environment firsthand. Completed applications must be received by December 1 for admission in the following fall semester. We do not offer spring or summer admissions.
Should I Contact Faculty Members with Whom I Would Like to Work Before I Apply?
Absolutely, yes! We strongly encourage you to identify faculty members whose research interests resonate with your own and to reach out to them to discuss potential opportunities for admission and mentorship. A faculty member’s agreement to serve as a student’s mentor is a primary consideration in the PhD admissions process.
When are Admissions Decisions Made?
Admissions decisions are typically finalized in mid- to late-February. Applicants will be notified of their admission status during this period.
For What Careers Will This PhD Prepare Me?
Our psychology PhD program is designed as an experimental psychology program, providing rigorous training for careers in teaching and research. Our graduates are highly competitive for university faculty positions and research roles in diverse settings, including hospitals, school systems, healthcare start-ups, and dedicated research institutes. Graduates also pursue impactful careers in applied research settings, conducting program evaluation research within education and intervention programs.
Does UT Dallas Have a Clinical Psychology or Counseling Program?
No, currently, we do not offer a clinical psychology or counseling master’s or PhD degree program. Our program focuses on experimental psychology and research-oriented training.
Should I Apply for the Master’s Program or the PhD Program?
The most suitable program depends on your individual career goals. A master’s degree in psychology is well-suited for students seeking broad psychology training beyond the undergraduate level or for those seeking additional preparation before applying to doctoral programs in clinical psychology or other specialized areas of psychology. The PhD program is specifically designed for students aspiring to careers in research and teaching, providing extensive and in-depth training in research design and methodology.
Should I Apply for the PhD Program in Psychology or in Cognition and Neuroscience if I Am Interested in Studying Cognitive Psychology?
These two programs share significant common ground, with considerable overlap in coursework and faculty involvement. The psychology program offers broader training in psychology, allowing students to specialize in developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, or social/personality psychology. The cognition and neuroscience program provides a more focused specialization in cognitive psychology or neuroscience. To determine the best fit for you, consider the type of department you envision yourself being affiliated with in the future and which degree program best aligns with your long-term career aspirations.
Program Contacts
Program Head
Karen M. Rodrigue, PhD
[email protected]
Academic Support Coordinator
Ashton Nance
[email protected]
For Additional Program Information
Psychology Doctoral Program
School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences
The University of Texas at Dallas
800 W. Campbell Rd., GR41
Richardson, TX 75080
[email protected]
PhD Student Guide
For detailed policies and procedures relevant to PhD programs within the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, please consult the PhD student guide.
PhD Student Forms and Information
Forms and Information
Degree Plan
Psychology
Registration and Related Forms
Graduate Change of Program
Register, Add, Drop, Withdraw
Repeated Course Grade Adjustment
Transfer of Credit Request
Milestones and Annual Reporting Forms
Milestones Agreement Form
Psychology Guidelines for Completing Theses and Dissertations
Psychology Annual Report
Qualifying Papers and Projects
Qualifying Plan 1: Thesis
Overview of Qualifying Plan 1
Psychology Guidelines for Completing Theses and Dissertations
Qualifying Thesis Committee Membership
Qualifying Thesis Proposal Approval
Qualifying Thesis Final Approval
Public Presentation of Research Project
Request for Extension
Dissertation
Committee Appointment Form
Dissertation Proposal Meeting
Public Presentation of Dissertation Proposal
Request for Final Oral Exam
In Absentia Registration
Memo – Absent Committee Member
Memo – Committee Member Attending Remotely
Checklist for Final Submission of Doctoral Dissertation
UTDPP1052
Teaching and Research Assistantship Forms and FAQs
UTDPP1075
Requests for Student Travel and Dissertation Support
Student Request for Travel Support
PhD Research Small Grants Program Application
Program Resources
Psychology PhD Fast Facts
This document provides a quick, printable overview of the program.
Please visit the Office of Graduate studies for additional information on academic policies, PhD deadlines, PhD forms, guidelines for preparing dissertations, and a profile of characteristics of doctoral programs at UT Dallas.
Student Achievement Data
View the Student Achievement Data on the Callier Center for Communication Disorders page.
