The Department of Psychology at UCLA stands as a leading institution for individuals aspiring to earn a Psychology Ph.D. degree. Distinguished by its commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry, UCLA’s program is meticulously crafted to cultivate the next generation of leading researchers and academics within the field. It is important to note that UCLA Psychology Department exclusively offers a Ph.D. program; there are no separate Master’s (M.A.) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) programs available.
This premier program provides specialized training across a diverse range of psychological disciplines, encompassing Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Health Psychology, Quantitative Psychology, Social Psychology, and Social and Affective Neuroscience. Regardless of the chosen area of emphasis, the overarching mission remains consistent: to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to significantly contribute to the scientific foundation of psychology. The curriculum is intentionally designed to prepare psychologists for impactful careers as researchers, university professors, and professional research psychologists.
At the heart of the UCLA Psychology Ph.D. program lies a dedication to rigorous scientific training. This commitment extends beyond the department itself, actively encouraging students to engage with the extensive resources available across UCLA’s broader academic community. Students benefit from collaborations with renowned institutions such as the Brain Research Institute, the interdisciplinary Neuroscience and Cognitive programs, the Institute for Social Science Research, and the Neuropsychiatric Institute, all of which offer unparalleled research opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities. Furthermore, the Fernald Child Study Center underscores the department’s enduring dedication to the study of childhood learning and developmental behavioral challenges. The department also houses the Psychology Clinic, providing another valuable resource for training and research.
UCLA’s advantageous location and strong ties with prominent local healthcare providers, including Veterans Administration hospitals, clinics, and various institutes, present students with exceptional year-round training and research prospects in real-world settings. Complementing these resources is UCLA’s exceptional library system. The University Research, Biomedical, and Research libraries offer an expansive collection of scholarly materials, further enriching the academic pursuits of psychology doctoral candidates.
Graduates from UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program are exceptionally well-prepared for a wide spectrum of career paths in both academic and applied domains. Alumni frequently secure prestigious positions at universities and colleges, contribute to research initiatives within governmental and non-governmental organizations, and assume influential roles within business and industry.
The Psychology Ph.D. program proudly stands as one of the 18 distinguished Ph.D. programs within the biosciences at UCLA, highlighting the university’s broader strength and commitment to cutting-edge biological and psychological research.
Discover UCLA: A Vibrant Location for Doctoral Studies
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), a flagship institution within the University of California system, offers an unparalleled setting for graduate studies. Nestled in the vibrant West Los Angeles area, just a short distance from the Pacific Ocean, UCLA enjoys a prime location in one of Southern California’s most desirable regions. The picturesque campus is bordered by the Santa Monica Mountains to the north and the renowned Getty Museum, offering world-class art and panoramic views. At the southern edge of campus, Westwood Village beckons with a diverse array of entertainment options, including theaters, restaurants, and the Armand Hammer Museum. A short drive to the east reveals cultural treasures such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, along with the iconic districts of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and downtown Los Angeles, the city’s bustling center for business and entertainment.
