Program Overview
Graduate Program Overview
The Graduate Program in the Department of Psychology at Princeton University is designed to prepare students for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and a career of productive scholarship in psychological science. The program offers specialization in diverse areas, including:
- Behavioral economics
- Cognitive neuroscience
- Culture
- Developmental science
- Diversity science
- Emotion
- Language and communication
- Learning and memory
- Perception and cognition
- The psychology of inequality
- Social neuroscience
- Social psychology
- Systems neuroscience
Ph.D. Program Requirements
Graduate students complete at least 5 courses during their first year, and then focus on research and teaching. In particular, students:
- Carry out independent research
- Write a research paper and theory paper as part of their general examination
- Write a dissertation proposal
- Take advanced seminars
- Present their dissertation to the departmental community
Program Requirement Details
Graduate students take 5 core courses:
- A seminar focused on cognitive psychology
- A seminar focused on social psychology
- Two semesters of statistics
- A course on responsible conduct of research Students enroll every semester in a lunchtime seminar where they hear about the research of both local and visiting scientists. Optional courses are offered regularly, including a course that informs students about current trends in statistics.
Applying to the Graduate Program
Applications to the Ph.D. program should include:
- A statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Transcript
- 3 letters of recommendation Applicants may also submit an essay about how their academic interests or life experiences help fulfill Princeton’s commitment to diversity.
Program Timeline
- In the first year, graduate students take courses and carry out independent and collaborative research.
- At the beginning of the third year, students submit a research paper and a theory paper, and discuss their work with a committee as part of the general examination.
- During the fourth year, students propose their dissertation research.
- At the end of the fifth year, students present their dissertation research to the departmental community.
Finding a Faculty Advisor
Prospective graduate students should reach out to one or more relevant advisors prior to applying. Students are admitted with the intent of working with a particular faculty member as their primary advisor, and must select a secondary/co-advisor by the end of the first year.