Program Overview

Introduction to the Psychology Doctor of Philosophy Program

The Psychology Doctor of Philosophy program at Ohio State University is noted for its long history of excellence in research, teaching, and service. With approximately 50 faculty members, 150 graduate students, and 1800 undergraduate majors, it is one of the largest departments at the university.

About the Department

The department is recognized as one of the top-ranked psychology departments in the country, providing extensive course offerings and research opportunities in seven program areas. Faculty members work in diverse areas of human and animal cognition, emotion, and behavior, and engage in many interdisciplinary research activities.

History of the Department

The study of psychology is part of a long and distinguished tradition at Ohio State University. The first psychology course was offered in 1879, and in 1907, an independent Department of Psychology was formed. The first Master of Arts degree in Psychology was awarded in 1915, and the first Ph.D. in 1917. Since that time, about 2,800 master's degrees and 2,000 doctorates have been conferred.

Faculty

The Psychology Department faculty at the Columbus campus consists of about 60 professors, many of whom are recognized both nationally and internationally for their contributions to their fields. Many faculty members hold joint appointments, which means they are also members of other department faculties at Ohio State. Faculty members are recipients of the discipline's highest awards for professional and scientific achievement and serve as editors of major journals and presidents of professional societies.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

International graduates of this major are eligible to apply for up to three years of work permission in the United States after graduation.

Program Information

• The program is designed to prepare students to sit for applicable licensure or certification in Ohio.
• If students plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, they should review state educational requirements for licensure, certification, and state licensing board contact information.

Research Areas

Faculty members work in diverse areas of human and animal cognition, emotion, and behavior, and engage in many interdisciplinary research activities. The department provides extensive course offerings and research opportunities in seven program areas.

Alumni

Department graduates hold respected teaching, research, and professional positions across the United States and many practice in other countries. In fact, there is at least one Ohio State graduate on the psychology faculty of almost every major university in America.