Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology

Brown University’s Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences (CLPS) is dedicated to the multidisciplinary study of mind, brain, behavior and language. It offers three PhD programs: in Cognitive Science, Linguistics and Psychology. PhD students are accepted by the department and formally choose one of the three programs after the first year. The department does not accept students interested in obtaining terminal Master’s degrees. The department also has no PhD or Master’s programs in Clinical, Counseling, School, or Applied Psychology. 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. Students will gain a broad competence in the scientific issues, theories, and experimental methods of psychology and will develop expertise in one or more research specializations. Programs of study are highly individualized; decisions about research and coursework are made in close collaboration with a research advisor and graduate committee chosen by each student. Students may change areas, programs, and/or advisors as their interests develop. Students are also encouraged to collaborate with faculty members who are not their primary advisors. Students accepted into the Psychology PhD program are guaranteed five years of financial support contingent on satisfactory progress toward the degree. In addition to the Graduate School's doctoral support, the department also typically provides a summer stipend for a fourth summer if the student continues to work on research over that period. Support normally comes in the form of teaching or research assistantships, and students are encouraged to apply for their own fellowships (e.g., NSF) before or after being admitted to the program.