cognitive psychology phd online

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• PsyD vs PhD

Best Online PhD in Cognitive Psychology Programs

According to the APA, cognitive psychology utilizes human learning and development principles, as well as cognitive processing, to overcome problematic behavior and emotional thinking. It uses these vital principles to help people live more productive lives.

Cognitive psychologists have an excellent grasp of applied behavior analysis, cognitive therapy, behavior therapy, social learning theories, emotional processing theories, and information processing theories.

A Ph.D. in cognitive psychology investigates the vital cognitive processes and applies several theoretical perspectives to understanding these complex processes. Doctoral candidates in cognitive psychology often conduct basic and translational research to devise solutions for real-world issues, such as enhancing children’s reading comprehension.

Students in cognitive psychology develop expertise in quantitative methods and take courses in vital cognitive processes, such as decision making, dynamics, language, embodiment, natural language processing, perception and action, and neuroscience.

With a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology, you may work in intelligence, research, computer science, speech synthesis, big data analysis, informatics, or telecommunications. The degree fully prepares you for any field that is based on cognition and technology.

Are you interested in earning your Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology online? Please review the available online programs below.

Schools on This Page

• Grand Canyon University
• George Mason University
• Bircham International University

#1 Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers an online Ph.D. in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Cognition and Instruction . This doctoral program is intended to educate students who want to work with adult students in economically and culturally diverse communities.

Graduates will study how cognitive processes can affect and inform instructional methods. The coursework in this program covers topics that are important for building and analyzing needed learning outcomes, including assessments and social cognition.

Required courses in this four-year, accredited program are:

• Introduction to Research
• Psychoanalysis and Psychodynamic Theory
• Foundations of Research 1 and 2
• Behaviorism
• Social Cognition
• Cognition and Instruction
• Designing a Qualitative Study

Many graduates of this program continue in their current jobs, but others seek new roles as teachers, researchers, professors, and government contractors.

*Visit Grand Canyon University

• Institution type : Private, non-profit
• Delivery method : Online
• Headquarters : Phoenix, Arizona
• Accreditation : Western Association of Colleges and Schools
• Degrees offered : Ph.D. in cognitive psychology
• Expected total tuition : $41,700
• Prerequisites : Master’s degree in psychology

#2 George Mason University

George Mason University offers an online Ph.D. in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience that provides advanced knowledge of the essential areas of psychology and practical experience to apply this information to solve problems in relationships, work, and education.

Core courses cover information essential to doctoral in psychology training, including the biological, social, cognitive, and individual bases of behavior, as well as the long history of psychology in the US and across the world.

The program also focuses on the study of biological substrates of human behavior. Faculty study areas such as neural control of behavioral development; animal models of memory and learning; social brain systems involved in perception, human error, decision making, and movement; and the relation of neural activity to human performance.

Required courses are:

• Biological Bases of Human Behavior
• Social Bases of Behavior
• Special Topics in Psychology
• Advanced Statistics
• Psychometric Methods
• Developmental Assessment
• Emotional Bases of Behavior

Total credits required for graduates range from 72 to 76. If you enter the program with a master’s, you can reduce the number of credits you take by up to 30, if approved by the dean.

• Institution type : Public, non-profit
• Headquarters : Fairfax, Virginia
• Accreditation : Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• Expected total tuition : $56,000
• Visit school : Click here

#3 Bircham International University

Bircham International University offers a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology entirely online . This accredited, four-year program reviews the findings, methods, and controversies in cognitive neuroscience and psychology.

The program uses a comparative and developmental perspective to study brain evolution theories and human cognition by using information derived from young children and animals.

The Ph. D. program has 30 required for graduation, but other courses can be added if you are interested in additional specialties. A 70-page thesis paper is required for graduation that will be reviewed by the program’s academic committee. Several 30-page reports may also be required to complete all credits.

The student must defend their thesis in front of at least three members of the Bircham University Academic Network.

• Institution type : Public, for-profit
• Headquarters : Madrid, Spain
• Accreditation : United States Distance Learning Association
• Expected total tuition : $12,240

Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology Summary

Obtaining your Ph.D. in cognitive psychology can be an excellent way to enhance your career if you intend to work in academia, research, or private practice. Students interested in moving to the highest levels of the field with the best salary will find that this highly-respected degree is worth the time and effort.

Cognitive Psychology

Information about the Cognitive Psychology Graduate Major

This Area’s goal is to produce cognitive psychologists who combine general scholarship with sophistication in research design, theory formulation, experimental and computational methods, and scientific communication. The cognitive program at UCLA is designed to ensure exposure to the content and methods deemed essential for all cognitive psychologists, and to provide the opportunity for exposure to additional knowledge and research tools required for specialized professional positions.

The scope of the study of cognition at UCLA is broad, encompassing perception, the control of attention and motor responses, the formation of mental representations, the dynamics of memory retrieval, learning, cognitive development and cognitive breakdown, the mechanisms of reasoning, language, and problem solving. The range of methodological approaches is broad as well. Efforts to formulate computational models of cognitive processes are combined with empirical research and with efforts to specify the neurophysiological underpinnings of cognition. There are applied research opportunities as well in areas such as human-factors engineering, medical technology, education, psychology and the law, and learning/language disabilities.

Modern cognitive psychology is increasingly merging with the broader fields of cognitive science and cognitive neuroscience, which draw together researchers from a variety of disciplines concerned with the study of mind, brain, and intelligence. UCLA has established programs in cognitive science and cognitive neuroscience that sponsor colloquia, seminars, and interdisciplinary research. UCLA is unique in the breadth and depth of its cognitive programs, which draw upon upwards of 40 faculty from such disciplines as cognitive, developmental, and physiological psychology, along with neuroscience, artificial intelligence, linguistics, and philosophy. Each of the major departments involved are among the most highly rated in the country.

The general facilities and resources at UCLA are outstanding. There are few universities with more extensive central libraries, computing facilities, and brain imaging equipment. Overall, the faculty and resources available in the Cognitive Psychology program at UCLA are among the best in the world.

More Cognitive Psychology Information

• For a list of Required Courses please see the  Psychology Handbook

Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology

Graduate students trained in Cognitive, Developmental, Social, or Quantitative Psychology follow a single curriculum with a uniform set of requirements, but their research programs and seminar courses focus on their unique areas of interest.

Our philosophy can be summed up as cooperative, and the small size of our program ensures individualized attention for all students. Although students work directly with a faculty advisor, following a mentor-apprentice model, they also have considerable freedom to collaborate with other faculty and students within and beyond the Department. Indeed, we encourage students to publish with several faculty members before they graduate. Greensboro’s central location in NC has resulted in close ties to other top departments, creating opportunities for our students to take courses, collaborate, and network.

We are no longer accepting GRE scores from applicants to the MA-PhD program in Cognitive Psychology, for entry starting in Fall 2024.

Application Deadline:

Program highlights.

• Individual attention and mentoring from faculty
• Students have a primary faculty advisor but are also supported to conduct research projects with other faculty if it fits with their goals
• Students typically receive 5 years of funding, including tuition remission
• We’re a highly collaborative group, who not only enjoy “talking science” with each other but who also frequently conduct research together across laboratories
• Methods training in experimental design, experience and thought sampling, protocol analysis, eye-tracking and pupillometry, and psychometrics
• Recent graduate seminars in  Variation in Executive Control ,  Cognition in the Classroom ,  Event Cognition ,  Cognitive Aging ,  Metacognition ,  Working Memory, Memory and Belief , and  What’s the big idea? Competing perspectives on human cognition

Recent graduates have secured postdoctoral and tenure-track positions:

• Appalachian State University [ Matt Meier ]
• Millikin University [Sydney Garlitch]
• Washington University in St. Louis [ Matthew Welhaf ]
• Youngstown State University [ David Frank ]

Faculty in Cognitive Psychology

Yoojin chang.

Dual processes of memory and its implications in various social judgment settings such as truth judgments of general knowledge, information from social media, and stigma related information. Cognitive processes and/or fallacies in courtroom decisions.

Not accepting students

Peter F. Delaney

C.L.A.M. Lab

Memory, planning, problem-solving, skill learning, and expertise.

Accepting students

Michael J. Kane

Professor and Associate Department Head

I.D.E.A. Lab

Individual differences in executive control, attention, action, memory, and intelligence

Chris Wahlheim

Associate Professor

Memory and Cognition Lab

Memory, event cognition, cognitive aging, metacognition, and category learning

Robert W. Wiley

Assistant Professor

Cognitive and Neural Science of Learning Lab

Learning and perception, neural plasticity, cognitive science and education

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS BY CURRENT/RECENT STUDENTS

Adams, R. L. , & Delaney, P. F. (2022). Long-term working memory and language comprehension. In J. W. Schweitzer & Z. E. Wen (Eds.),  Cambridge Handbook of Working Memory and Language  (pp. 98-119). Cambridge University Press.

Garlitch, S. M. , Richmond, L. L., Ball, B. H., & Wahlheim, C. N. (2023).  Adult age differences in subjective context retrieval in dual-list free recall.   Memory, 31 , 218-233 ( OSF Link ) Gilbert, L. T. , Delaney, P. F., & Racsmány, M. (2023). People sometimes remember to forget: Strategic retrieval from the list before last enables directed forgetting of the most recent information. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, 49(6), 900–925. https://doi.org/10.1037/xlm0001178 .

Hermann, M. M., Wahlheim, C. N.,  Alexander, T. R. , & Zacks, J. M. (2021).  The role of prior-event retrieval in encoding changed event features.  Memory & Cognition, 49, 1387-1404.

Kemp, P. L., Alexander, T. A. , & Wahlheim, C. N. (2022).  Recalling fake news during real news corrections can impair or enhance memory updating: The role of recollection-based retrieval.   Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications,  7:85. ( OSF Link ).

Kemp, P. L. , Loaiza, V. M., & Wahlheim, C. N. (2022).  Fake news reminders and veracity labels differentially benefit  memory and belief accuracy for news headlines.   Scientific Reports,  12:21829. ( OSF Link ).

Smith, W. G. , & Delaney, P. F. (2023). Updating and pre-existing semantic associations: Testing can enhance or impair new learning. Memory, 31(4), 530-544. https://doi.org/10.1080/09658211.2023.2173784

Wahlheim, C. N., Smith, S. T., Garlitch, S. M. , & Wiley, R. W. (2023). Interpolated retrieval retroactively increases recall and promotes cross-episode memory interdependence.  Learning & Memory.  ( OSF Link ).

Welhaf, M.S. , & Kane, M.J. (2023). A nomothetic span approach to the construct validation of sustained attention consistency: Re-analyzing two latent-variable studies of performance variability and mind-wandering self-reports . Psychological Research.

Welhaf, M.S., Meier, M.E., Smeekens, B.A.,  Silvia, P.J., Kwapil, T.R., & Kane, M.J. (2022).  A “Goldilocks Zone” for mind wandering reports? A secondary data analysis of how few thought probes are enough for reliable and valid measurement . Behavior Research Methods.

Request more information

Please address all Graduate Application questions to:

Malcolm Mohan

Administrative Assistant

[email protected] 336-334-5014

Please address all additional Graduate questions to:

Professor and Graduate Program Director

[email protected] Eberhart 271

Department of Psychology

Dietrich college of humanities and social sciences.

Cognitive Neuroscience Graduate Program

The goal of the cognitive neuroscience ph.d. program is to train cognitive neuroscientists who deeply understand and integrate cross-disciplinary research findings, perspectives, and tools for the study of mind, brain, and behavior..

A unique feature and strength of our program is the opportunity for students to engage in a set of scientific and social events that foster exposure to behavioral , brain, and computational science research that spans Carnegie Mellon University and, through the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition , the University of Pittsburgh.

Related Links

• Program Requirements
• Cognitive Neuroscience Research
• Neuroscience Institute

These faculty routinely train Cognitive Neuroscience Ph.D. students:

John Anderson

Richard King Mellon University Professor of Psychology and Computer Science

We use neural imaging (fMRI, EEG, MEG) to study the sequential structure of complex tasks like mathematical problem solving and video games. Machine learning techniques combine imaging data and computational models to track mental processes in the performance of a task.

Marlene Behrmann

Thomas S. Baker University Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience

Behrmann's research program is on understanding the psychological and neural bases of visual cognition, with particular emphasis on the recognition of faces, words and common objects. The research involves a multimodal approach using psychophysics, functional MRI and EEG and different populations including normal and brain-damaged adults and children.

Jessica Cantlon

Ronald J. and Mary Ann Zdrojkowski Associate Professor of Developmental Neuroscience/Psychology

We study the developmental, evolutionary, and cultural origins of logic and mathematics using fMRI and behavioral methods with children and adults, comparative studies with non-human primates, and cross-cultural research in the Amazon. Our studies test the kinds of computations that are shared among primates, their developmental trajectory, and what makes the human brain unique.

David Creswell

William S. Dietrich II Professor in Psychology and Neuroscience

David's research focuses broadly on understanding what makes people resilient under stress. Specifically, he conducts community intervention studies, laboratory studies of stress and coping, and neuroimaging studies to understand how various stress management strategies alter coping and stress resilience.

Laurie Heller

Professor of Psychology (Teaching)

My research examines the human ability to use sound to understand what events are happening in the environment. My perceptual experiments address whether there are acoustic cues that reveal attributes of sound events, and how our knowledge of these cue-attribute relationships influences our discrimination of sounds, labeling of sounds, and multimodal perception.

Marcel Just

D.O. Hebb University Professor of Psychology

My research uses fMRI (and occasionally EEG) to determine how concepts, sentences and other knowledge structures are neurally represented, ultimately decoding thoughts from their fMRI signature. I am also investigating the applications of this approach to psychiatric alterations of concepts  (particularly in suicidal ideation) and in the representation and learning of scientific concepts.

Roberta Klatzky

Charles J. Queenan, Jr. University Professor of Psychology and Human-Computer Interaction

I study how humans form perceptual representations in multiple sensory modalities and use them to guide action. My work has a strong connection to application, such as aiding blind people in navigation or augmenting surgery with touch and visual displays.

Associate Professor of Psychology

I work on the organization of object concepts in the brain, and how the brain recovers from injury. 

David Plaut

Professor of Psychology and the Neuroscience Institute

My research involves using computational (neural-network) modeling, complemented by behavioral, neuropsychological, and neuroimaging studies, to investigate the neural basis of cognitive processing in the domains of high-level vision, reading and language, and semantics, over the course of development, in skilled adults, and in patients with brain damage.

Barbara Shinn-Cunningham

Director, Carnegie Mellon Neuroscience Institute, George A. and Helen Durham Cowan Professor of Auditory Neuroscience, Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition and Professor of Psychology (Courtesy)

I work on auditory neuroscience, especially auditory attention and communicating in complex environments, using EEG, MEG, fMRI, behavioral, and computational methods.

Michael J. Tarr

Kavčić-Moura Professor of Cognitive and Brain Science, Head of the Department of Psychology, Professor of Psychology and the Neuroscience Institute, and Professor of Machine Learning (Courtesy)

Using tools drawn from machine learning, computer vision, computer graphics, cognitive science and neuroimaging we are exploring how high-level structures within biological vision systems arise given minimal conditions, as well as how such models can help us to better understand the processes that underlie vision.

Jonathan Tsay

Assistant Professor

From brewing the perfect cup of coffee to handling routine lane changes, humans are remarkably skilled at mastering a limitless repertoire of movements. My long-term research goal is to understand how humans achieve this exquisite feat of learning by combining computational modeling, psychophysics, and neuropsychology. I expect these findings to apply broadly to optimize clinical rehabilitation, improve human performance, and inspire the next generation of brain-computer interfaces.

Timothy Verstynen

Associate Professor of Psychology and the Neuroscience Institute

My lab studies how the architecture of cortical and subcortical circuits gives rise to the algorithms of decision-making and learning. We apply this understanding in the context of health neuroscience and artificial intelligence.

Leila Wehbe

Assistant Professor of Machine Learning, Assistant Professor of Psychology (Affiliated)

I use functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Magnetoencephalography (MEG) to investigate how the brain represents complex meaning in everyday life.

• Community Standards
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Brain and Cognitive Sciences PhD Program

Graduate students in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences are among the sharpest, most innovative brain scientists to be found anywhere. In a given year the department admits 5 to 10 percent of applicants, and our PhD program is consistently ranked among the best in the world. Students work hard to get here, and they are highly valued in the BCS community.

Innovative:  Our students often take on riskier projects and pilot studies that probe the edges of our technical and scientific knowledge. They can move among projects more easily, and their successes lay the foundation for not only their careers but the future directions of their mentors’ labs.

Collaborative:  Our students bring bold, fresh thinking to the department, and exploring these potentially transformative ideas often means reaching across boundaries of lab, center, and department to build new collaborations. Graduate students help BCS mesh with the rest of MIT.

Supportive: Graduate students are the most frequent mentors of undergraduate students in UROPs , actively guiding and developing those who will become the next generation of top-tier graduate students. BCS graduate students also are helping make sure the department is a welcoming, inclusive, and equitable community.

Overview of the Program

Graduate students in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences work with an advisor and advisory committee to pursue an innovative and rigorous program of original research. Students should aim to complete their PhD in five to six years.  

• Students take three to four of their required six courses
• Students complete required Responsible Conduct in Science training.
• Students complete a minimum of three lab rotations by March 31.
• Students select a thesis advisor by April 30.    
• Students complete the remaining two to three of their academic course requirements by the end of the Spring Term.
• Students complete teaching assistant training and their first teaching (TA) requirement.
• Students form their qualifying exam advisory committee, have their first committee meeting, and turn in the completed committee meeting form to BCS HQ by the end of the Spring Term.   
• Students complete the second teaching (TA) requirement.
• Students complete the written and oral qualifying exam in October or November.  
• Students form a thesis committee, submit a written thesis proposal to their committee, orally present their proposal to the thesis committee, and receive committee approval, before the end of the Spring Term.
• Students must meet with their thesis committee once per year.
• Students take the final steps to completing the PhD oral examination (also known as the thesis defense) and submission of the approved written dissertation.

For detailed information on courses, rotations, and other program requirements, see Program Details .

Department of Cognitive Science

• PhD Admissions

• PhD Requirements
• Computational Cognitive Science Track
• PhD Sample Program
• PhD Funding
• Alumni Testimonials
• PhD Alumni Placement
• MA Requirements
• MA Sample Program
• MA Admissions
• Graduate Courses
• Professional Development

Our PhD program provides full-time, in-person training and close mentorship in various areas of cognitive science and in the formal methods that pertain to them. We apply a holistic approach to the review of applications and give careful consideration to all the credentials presented by applicants, including academic qualifications obtained in a wide variety of institutions, skills, and experiences that facilitate degree completion and a successful postgraduate career. This results in a diverse group of graduate students, with a sample of different profiles exemplified below:

Example Profiles of Candidates

• Candidates holding baccalaureate or master’s degrees in cognitive science or one of the traditional sub-disciplines (psychology, computer science, linguistics, neuroscience, and philosophy). Such candidates have typically engaged in previous research in one of those sub-disciplines. They are strongly theoretically oriented and their interests in cognitive science are broad. In addition to perfecting their training in one of the sub-disciplines under a close mentorship, they also wish to be trained in methodologies of other sub-disciplines and to produce an integrated body of interdisciplinary research.
• Candidates with no degree in cognitive science or one of the traditional sub-disciplines but one in a formal discipline, such as mathematics, physics, applied mathematics, etc. Such candidates have some knowledge of what cognitive science is about and wish to apply their formal training to an interdisciplinary study of the mind. Upon admission, they are encouraged to do some background readings before the fall of their admission year. Such students typically take a relatively heavy range of courses across the cognitive sciences during their first year in the PhD program to fill in their background.
• Candidates with no degree in cognitive science or one of the traditional sub-disciplines but one in a related or applied field (e.g., education, foreign languages).  Such candidates have some knowledge of what cognitive science is about and may, for example, have done a summer internship in a psychology-related lab or have taken a few linguistics courses at a summer institute. Upon admission, they are encouraged to do some background readings before the fall of their admission year. Such students typically take a relatively heavy range of courses across the cognitive sciences during their first year in the PhD program to fill in their background.

We strongly encourage candidates from traditionally marginalized or underrepresented groups to apply. Our department is committed to supporting diversity . Johns Hopkins offers professional development, fellowships and resources to support graduate students from diverse backgrounds and experiences. See more.

Admissions Resources

• Watch a PhD Program Info Session
• Visiting Campus
• Virtual Tour
• Why Cognitive Science?
• Need-based Relocation Funds for Incoming Graduate Students

Tip:  If your faculty of interest does not post on their website whether they are accepting new students, consider emailing them. There is a lot to gain and not much to lose by doing so.

Prerequisites

Applicants interested in the Computational Cognitive Science Track are required to have programming and math skills that would allow them to take the basic computation courses (e.g. experience with Python or MATLAB, linear algebra, calculus, etc.).

Otherwise, there are no set minimum admissions prerequisites. Competitive candidates tend to present the following credentials among their application materials:

• Previous research experience or significant work experience demonstrating skills that facilitate degree completion.
• Letters of recommendation from people familiar with the candidate’s potential in graduate school, providing detailed evidence of research potential in the sub-disciplines of cognitive science and/or mathematical sciences.
• A focused and detailed statement of purpose.
• International students – TOEFL scores above 600/paper or 250/computer or 100/IBT OR IELTS bandscore of 7 or better.

Application Deadline

The application is expected to open in September 2024 and is due December 1, 2024 to apply for admission in Fall 2025. Read the instructions below thoroughly before submitting your application.

How to Apply

Review both the Krieger School graduate application instructions and the program-specific instructions in this page. Applicants are responsible for reading and for meeting the requirements in both. Questions may be directed to our admissions coordinator .

A separate application is required for each program at Johns Hopkins. For example, the PhD in Psychology , PhD in Cognitive Science , MA in Cognitive Science and Neuroscience Graduate Training Program are distinct programs and require separate applications.

Faculty and Areas of Interest

On the Program Information page, applicants should list which core cognitive science faculty with whom they are most interested in working. Other faculty, including joint / secondary faculty, do not admit students to our program; although applicants may express interest in collaborations. Applicants should also identify their top two areas of interest in this section. Additional areas of interest may be detailed in the Statement of Purpose.

Areas of Interest

• architecture of the grammar
• cognitive development
• cognitive neuropsychology
• cognitive neuroscience
• cognitive psychology
• computation in cognition
• computational linguistics
• computational neuroscience
• deep learning
• functional neuroimaging
• language acquisition
• language and thought
• language emergence
• language learning in aging, stroke, and neurodegenerative disease
• language processing
• machine learning
• neurocognitive mechanisms of language recovery
• neurocognitive mechanisms of word learning
• optimality theory
• orthographic processing
• philosophy of mind
• psycholinguistics
• reading and writing
• representation
• scene perception
• semantics/pragmatics
• sign languages
• spatial cognition
• special populations (Williams Syndrome)
• speech perception
• theoretical linguistics
• visual cognition

Required Application Materials

All required application materials must be submitted online, on time, and in English to be reviewed for admission.

• Unofficial Transcripts
• For example, candidates wishing to pursue computational approaches to cognition are encouraged to discuss their math background; cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, and language processing candidates their laboratory experience; and linguistics candidates their background in generative linguistics.
• Candidates with no previous background in cognitive science should convey their formal background, previous exposure to cognitive science issues, particular interests in the field, and why our program is an appropriate choice for their study and research.
• 8.5″ x 11″ document, 1″ margins, 11-12 pt font, double-spaced, and standard font style such as Times New Roman or Arial. If citations are necessary, use the style of your chosen field.
• Duo-degree candidates must explicitly mention the relevant dual disciplines they hope to study.
• Sample of Written Work. A research paper, writing sample, thesis, conference poster, etc. that demonstrates the applicant’s analytical thinking. (Average: 10-20 pages)
• Three Letters of Recommendation . Detailed letters that address the applicant’s suitability for research in cognitive science, and—if relevant—provide an evaluation of the candidate’s previous research experience and future promise.
• TOEFL/IELTS Scores (international applicants)
• Application Fee is required. The fee may be waived for VTSI applicants as well as applicants with documented registration/participation in certain programs . If an applicant believes they may be eligible for waiver, but does not fit the fee-waiver criteria on that website, contact our admissions coordinator with a justification for review.

Optional Materials: Personal Statement and GRE Scores

Graduate Student Resources

• Cognitive Science Graduate Handbook
• Graduate & Postdoctoral Affairs Website includes policies, credit hours, services, professional development, student life, graduation guide
• Alumni Placements

Degree Checklists

• PhD in CogSci Checklist
• PhD in CogSci CCS Checklist

Psychology, PhD (Cognitive Science)

On this page:.

The Doctor of Philosophy program in psychology with an emphasis on cognitive science at Arizona State University investigates core cognitive processes and applies multiple theoretical perspectives to understanding these processes.

Program Description

Degree Awarded: Psychology, PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy program in psychology with an emphasis on cognitive science at Arizona State University investigates core cognitive processes and applies multiple theoretical perspectives to understanding these processes. Doctoral candidates conduct both basic and translational research in the spirit of the New American University  to generate solutions for real-world problems, such as improving children's reading comprehension.

The Department of Psychology’s doctoral program offers collaborative and interdisciplinary training in innovative, mentored research that is tailored to the unique needs of student. Doctoral candidates will develop expertise in quantitative methods from one of the nation’s top-ranked programs. The program also offers a breadth of courses in cognitive processes such as decision making, dynamics, embodiment, language, memory, natural language processing, neuroscience, and perception and action. Careers in cognitive science can be anywhere from research, computer science, intelligence, marketing, speech synthesis, telecommunications, medicine, informatics, and big data analysis. A graduate degree in cognitive science prepares you for any field that includes cognition and technology.

Cognitive Science Faculty

Cognitive Science Research Laboratories

Decision Neuroscience Laboratory  (McClure)

Dynamics of Perception, Action, & Cognition  (Amazeen)

Laboratory for Embodied Cognition  (Glenberg)

Memory & Language Lab  (Goldinger)

Perception, Ecological Action & Learning Lab  (McBeath)

Science of Learning and Educational Technology  (McNamara)

Memory and Attention Control  (Brewer)

Visual Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory  (Bae)

Student Handbook

Concentrations

Training in Cognitive Science (CS) follows an apprenticeship model and most students work closely with one advisor/mentor. Depending the student’s interests, however, the student may participate in several laboratories. 

Training in cognitive science follows an apprenticeship model. Students work closely with a mentor to complete required coursework, research training, a first-year project, a comprehensive examination and a doctoral dissertation. The goal of the program is to prepare students to become independent and creative scientists who publish findings in major, peer-reviewed outlets.

Courses and electives

Training in Cognitive Science (CS) follows an apprenticeship model and most students work closely with one advisor/mentor. Depending the student’s interests, however, the student may participate in several laboratories. The goals of the program are to train students through a series of projects and courses and to become independent and creative scientists. An important part of this training is developing skill in publishing and students are expected to have several publications in major, peer-reviewed outlets by the time they graduate.

At a Glance

• Location:   Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement:  No

Degree Requirements

The 84-hour program of study includes a first-year project, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive, a prospectus and a dissertation. Prospective doctoral candidates should have a passion and interest in cognitive science, have demonstrated research skills in a senior thesis, have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA and score in the upper quintile of GRE scores.

Admission Requirements

The Department of Psychology application process is completed online through  ASU Graduate Admissions . Prospective students must submit the admission application form along with the fee and official transcripts.

For the department’s doctoral programs, students must submit supplemental application materials through  SlideRoom , which requires an additional fee. For complete instructions for applying to the PhD program, visit our  Doctoral Admission requirements  page.

+ Core courses (24 hours)

2 – Graduate Level Statistics

• PSY 530 Intermediate Stats
• PSY 540 Advanced Stats

6 – courses taught by at least five CS core faculty (3 credits each), sample courses include:

• 528 Sensation and Perception
• 529 Embodied Cognition
• 535 Cognitive Processes
• 576 Dynamical Systems in Psychology
• 591 Seminar (in various topics)
• 598 Psychology of Language

+ Electives (6 hours)

In consultation with their research advisors, students select courses to meet their research and training goals.

2 – electives, sample courses include:

• PSY 598 Cognitive Science
• PSY 573 Psychopathology
• PSY 591 Social Cognitive Development: Theory of Mind
• PSY 591 Behavioral Neuroendocrinology
• PSY 598 Cognitive Science seminar
• PSY 512 Advanced Learning

+ Research (42 hours)

First Year Project . The first year project involves designing, conducting, and reporting research under the direct supervision of the student’s advisor.  By the end of the student’s first semester, two additional faculty members, called "readers," are selected to assist in the development of the project. The student must meet with the readers (either separately or as a committee) at least once. Also by the end of the first semester, the student will give a presentation of the plans for the first year project in the CS Seminar. No later than two weeks before the end of the second semester, the student provides to all CS faculty a written draft describing the project. The readers provide feedback to the student. The student gives an oral presentation to the CS Seminar by the end of the student's second semester.

Master’s Thesis.  The master's thesis is typically undertaken in the second year and defended during the third year. It is an original piece of research, closely supervised by the research advisor and an advisory committee. The thesis leads to the MA degree, which is considered to be a "masters in passing."  After forming a master’s thesis committee, the student must complete a three-step process:  (1) defend a written prospectus; (2) after data collection, conduct a “data meeting” at which the analyses are reviewed by the committee; and (3) pass a defense of the thesis.

Comprehensive Examination

During the third or fourth year of the doctoral studies, the student concentrates much of his or her effort on a scholarly review of the areas of Cognitive Science. The student works with four committee members to put together a reading list upon which the Comprehensive Exams — written and oral — are based. The student has the choice of completing a "closed-book," two-day written exam or an "open-book," two-week written exam. The oral exam is conducted one week after the conclusion of the written exam and serves to clarify the student's answers to the written questions. Often, the literature review that the student conducts during this time period becomes the basis of the doctoral dissertation.

+ Doctoral dissertation (12 hours)

Doctoral Dissertation: PSY 799 (12 hours) 

The doctoral dissertation is an extensive piece of original research that demonstrates the capability of the student to act as an independent scholar and use experimental methods. The dissertation is closely supervised by the research advisor and three additional faculty members who constitute the dissertation committee. As with the master’s thesis, there are three components. First, the student writes a formal dissertation proposal and defends it to the committee. After the defense, the student is admitted to PhD candidacy by the Graduate College. Second, following data collection, there is a "data meeting" at which the analyses are reviewed by the committee. The process culminates with the student's defense of the dissertation before the committee and the academic community.

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Psychology (Ph.D.)

The Doctoral in Psychology program provides the student with specialized coursework and opportunities for research in:

• Cognition and Brain Science
• Cognitive Aging Psychology
• Engineering Psychology Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Quantitative Psychology.

Each curriculum includes individualized study and research with a strong foundation in general experimental psychology as a basis for this specialization.

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Online Cognitive Psychology Programs

Choosing the right online cognitive psychology degree program, which cognitive psychology degree is right for me, cognitive psychology degree program curriculum, cognitive psychology degree program clinical requirements, list of cognitive psychology degree programs.

Cognitive psychologists work with people who have problems related to cognition, which includes memory, perception, attention, and language processing. Patients with attention deficit disorder, autism spectrum conditions, learning disabilities, brain trauma, and Alzheimer’s disease may find that their mental health professional is a cognitive psychologist. These psychologists also work in research, medical, and university settings.

On your journey to becoming a cognitive psychologist , it is important to choose accredited degree programs. Always check to make sure a program has this qualification since not all programs are properly qualified – even at some state-level universities. Accreditation is typically provided by the American Psychological Association and is required by most employers and licensing boards.

Which online degree is right for you depends on your career goals. A license is required to be a clinical practitioner, but many positions in this field do not call for licensing. You can work in research positions without licensing, and many non-doctoral positions exist in medical or even mental health facilities.

Bachelor’s Degree

There is no specialist degree at this level. Instead, most will get their bachelor’s in (general) psychology. The coursework will be heavy on psychology classes, but a few math, English, and history classes will be peppered into the mix. It usually takes four years to get this degree online.

Master’s Degree

Specialization begins at this level, and it is also possible to get cognitive psychology-specific careers at this point. Research work, certain teaching positions, and some clinical positions are available to master’s degree holders. A doctorate-level professional will typically supervise the team or facility. Getting this degree online can take as little as two years beyond your bachelor’s, so it’s a fairly quick step up.

Doctorate Degree

This is required to become licensed as a clinical psychologist. Licensure lets you work on your own, or be the boss over a team of other practitioners. The amount of credit hours for a doctorate isn’t very arduous, but there are other requirements for earning a doctorate. A specified number of practicum hours, as well as a dissertation, are common to these programs. The number of practicum hours depends on the university as well as the state it is in. Since you’ll be studying in an online format, you’ll be performing these internship or practicum hours within your own community.

As should be expected, online courses in a cognitive psychology degree program focus on subjects related to the field. The bachelor’s degree has more of a focus on general psychology and underlying theories, and also includes several classes in unrelated subjects like history and math.

• Bachelor’s Degree – This will usually be a general psychology degree. It takes 120 credit hours to complete and is set up so that if you take 15 credit hours each fall and spring, you’ll get it in four years. Because of this, institutions that offer it are known as “four-year” universities.
• Master’s Degree – The specific credit requirement depends on the university, but is typically about 30. Depending on the program, a dissertation may also be required.
• Doctorate Degree – Credit hour requirements range from 85-95, with some possible outliers, depending on the university in question. Most of the work of getting this degree comes in the form of practicum experience. You will also have to do a dissertation. How much practicum experience is involved varies widely; many schools base it on their state’s requirements for licensure. Licensure requirements range from 1,500-6,000 hours of experience.

Clinical practice requirements are typically set according to what the state’s licensing board demands. This lets you get all of the needed experience to apply for a license as part of your doctorate degree study, rather than doing it separately.

States require between 1,500-6,000 hours of practicum experience, so it’s important to check with the state where you intend to practice before choosing a doctorate degree program. The experience can come in the form of an internship, externship, or other such placement.

Normally, this part of the online program will involve you being placed in a real-world clinical situation under the supervision of a licensed clinical psychologist in your own community. At first, you’ll only get to observe the doctor as she or he interacts with patients, and then ask questions once sessions are over. As time goes on, you’ll get to be more hands-on. Finally, you’ll be allowed to practice on your own, with the licensed doctor giving you pointers and commentary after your sessions are done.

Looking for an online or campus-based cognitive psychology degree program near you? Browse our state-by-state school listings below.

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Auburn university at montgomery.

• Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences Program Campus

The University of Alabama

• PhD Cognitive Psychology Campus

University of Arizona

• Ph.D. Cognition and Neural Systems Campus

Claremont Graduate University

• MA Program in Applied Cognitive Psychology:User Experience Campus
• Applied Cognitive Psychology Campus

University of California-Los Angeles

• Cognitive Science BS Campus

University of California-San Diego

• Psychology B.S. with a Specialization in Cognitive Psychology Campus

University of California-Santa Cruz

• Cognitive Psychology, PhD Campus

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

• Cognitive Psychology Campus

University of Colorado Boulder

• Undergraduate Certificate in Cognitive Science Campus

University of Denver

• Affective / Social / Cognitive Psychology Campus

Connecticut

Eastern connecticut state university.

• Cognitive Neuroscience Concentration Campus

University of Connecticut

• Ph.D. program in Cognition, Instruction and Learning Technology Campus
• Ph.D in Language and Cognition Campus
• B.A. or B.S. Cognitive Science Campus

University of Delaware

Florida atlantic university.

• Ph.D. degree in Experimental Psychology-Cognitive Psychology Campus

Florida State University

University of central florida.

• Ph.D. Human Factors and Cognitive Psychology Campus

University of Florida

• Cognitive and Emotion Neuroscience Campus
• Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Track Campus

Emory University

• PhD in Psychology-Cognitive and Computational Sciences Concentration Campus

Georgia Gwinnett College

• Psychology Specialization-Cognitive / neuroscience Campus

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

• Certificate in Cognitive Psychology Campus
• Cognition and Brain Science specialty area for the Psychology Ph.D. Program Campus
• Cognitive Aging specialty area in the Psychology Ph.D. program Campus

Georgia State University

• Psychology, Ph.D., Cognitive Sciences Campus

Illinois State University

• Psychology - Cognitive and Experimental Psychology Campus

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

• Doctorate in Psychology: Brain and Cognitive Sciences Campus

University of Illinois Chicago

• Brain and Cognitive Sciences Campus

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Psychology: Cognitive Psychology, BSLAS Campus

Indiana University-Bloomington

• Computational and Cognitive Neuroscience Campus

University of Notre Dame

• PhD in Cognition, Brain, and Behavior Campus

Iowa State University

Kansas state university.

• Cognitive/Human Factors Campus

University of Kentucky

• PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience Campus

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

• Psychology B.S.-Concentration in Cognitive Neuroscience Campus

Tulane University of Louisiana

• Psychology, PhD: Brain, Cognition and Developmental Science Campus

Massachusetts

Boston university.

• Brain, Behavior, & Cognition Campus

Harvard University

• Cognition, Brain, and Behavior Campus

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

• Cognitive Science Tracks of Study Campus

Minnesota State University-Mankato

• Cognitive Science BS Psychology Campus

Mississippi

Mississippi state university.

• Cognitive Science PhD Campus

University of Southern Mississippi

• Psychology Brain and Behavior Campus

Washington University in St Louis

• Behavior, Brain, & Cognition Campus

The University of Montana

• Neuroscience, Cognitive Neuroscience Campus

University of Nebraska at Omaha

• MA in Cognitive Psychology Campus

University of Nevada-Reno

• Cognitive & Brain Sciences Ph.D. Campus

The College of New Jersey

• B.A. in Psychology-Cognitive Psychology Campus

University of New Mexico-Main Campus

• Cognition, Brain & Behavior Campus

Binghamton University

• Cognitive Psychology PhD Campus

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

• Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Campus
• Cognitive and Comparative Psychology Campus

Columbia University in the City of New York

• Ed Psych EdM Campus

Stony Brook University

• Cognitive Science Psychology Campus

North Carolina

University of north carolina at charlotte.

• Graduate Certificate in Cognitive Science Campus

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Bowling green state university-main campus.

• Neural and Cognitive Sciences Campus

Miami University-Oxford

• Brain, Cognitive and Developmental Sciences Campus

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Wright state university-main campus.

• Psychology, Cognition and Perception Campus

Oregon State University

• Ph.D. in Psychology Campus

Pennsylvania

Drexel university.

• PhD in Applied Cognitive and Brain Sciences Campus

Temple University

• Cognition and Neuroscience Campus

The Pennsylvania State University

University of pittsburgh-pittsburgh campus.

• Cognitive Program Campus

Villanova University

• BS in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience Campus

South Carolina

University of south carolina-columbia.

• Cognitive and Neural Sciences Concentration Campus

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

• Applied Educational Psychology Campus

Vanderbilt University

• Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience Campus
• Cognition in Context Campus
• M.S. in Cognitive Psychology in Context Campus

Texas Tech University

• Cognition & Cognitive Neuroscience Campus

The University of Texas at Dallas

• Cognition and Neuroscience PhD Campus

The University of Texas at El Paso

• Bilingualism, Language and Cognition Campus

University of Houston

• Developmental, Cognitive, and Behavioral Neuroscience Campus

University of Utah

• Cognition and Neural Science (CNS) Campus

Utah State University

• PhD in Psychology Brain and Cognition Campus

George Mason University

• Accelerated MA in Psychology (with a Concentration in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience) Campus
• Human Factors/Applied Cognition Concentration Campus
• Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience Concentration Campus
• Graduate Certificate in Cognitive Neuroscience Campus

University of Virginia-Main Campus

University of wisconsin-milwaukee.

• Educational Psychology, MS: Cognitive and Developmental Sciences Campus

University of Wyoming

• Cognition or Cognitive Development Campus

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Graduate Program

The Department of Psychology offers a PhD program in four areas: Clinical Science, Social, Developmental, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB). Admissions information, program requirements, funding and financial aid details, and other resources for the graduate program are detailed on the   Psychology Graduate Program website  and on the Harvard Griffin GSAS website . 

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Applied Cognitive Psychology

PhD in Psychology

The Applied Cognitive Psychology PhD Program is not currently accepting applications.

The phd program in applied cognitive psychology offers students training in cognitive psychology research and theory and a wide range of statistical and methodological skills necessary to do basic and applied research on important issues related to human cognition..

CGU’s PhD programming in Applied Cognitive Psychology offers in-depth scholarship in the theories and research that define the traditional and contemporary areas of cognitive psychology, including cognitive aging, eyewitness memory, intelligence and working memory, and perception and human performance. Intensive research will define your education; you’ll be quickly involved as a student, collaborator, and colleague with globally renowned faculty-scholars, conducting research on applied topics that inform important societal problems.

Program Highlights

• A key component of the Applied Cognitive Psychology program is the apprentice model, in which PhD students collaborate closely with their faculty research advisors throughout their graduate studies.
• Many cognitive psychology students focus their research in law & psychology, including the topics of eyewitness memory, autobiographical memory, and lie detection.
• Cognitive psychology students also collaborate with faculty from The Claremont Colleges on a range of topics, including cognitive aging, decision-making, prospective memory, autobiographical memory, and embodied cognition.
• Cognitive psychology graduate students and faculty gather regularly for Cognitive Brown Bag Lunches to hear research presentations on topics of current interest.
• All Applied Cognitive Psychology students who request financial aid receive fellowships. The Division of Behavioral & Organizational Sciences also regularly hires students for paid teaching assistantships.
• We also offer an MA program in Applied Cognitive Psychology: User Experience. Learn more

Program At-a-glance

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5-7 years | full time*

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Research Interests

Memory & Comprehension, Eyewitness Memory, Autobiographical Memory

Extended Faculty

Lise abrams.

Pomona College

Language and memory, speech production, tip-of-the-tongue (TOT) states, cognitive aging, bilingualism

Gabriel I. Cook

Claremont McKenna College

Cognition, memory

Jennifer Groscup

Scripps College

Intersection of psychology and law

Alison Harris

Cognitive neuroscience, decision neuroscience, neuroeconomics

David Moore

Pitzer College

Cognitive development, development of mental rotation, infant-directed speech, categorization in infancy

Catherine L. Reed

Cognitive neuroscience, electroencephalography, human behavior and human factors, multisensory perception

Shlomi Sher

Rational and psychological levels of analysis; scientific approaches to the mind-body problem

Patricia Smiley

Language development, self-development, achievement motivation

Sharda Umanath

Cognition, education, experimental psychology, memory

Megan Zirnstein

Sentence processing, individual differences in reading behavior and comprehension, bilingual language processing, ERPs, eye tracking

Cognitive Psychology (12 units) Cognition (4 units) Memory (4 units) Applied Cognitive Psychology (4 units)

Cognitive Psychology & Related Electives (32 units) You are encouraged to take elective courses in the School of Educational Studies, the Drucker School of Management, the Division of Politics & Economics, and the Center for Information Systems & Technology.

Statistics & Research Methods (20 units) Research Methods (4 units) Directed Research: Cognitive Psychology (two 2-unit courses) Intermediate Statistics (2 units) Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) (2 units) Applied Multiple Regression (2 units) Categorical Data Analysis (2 units) Additional 4 units of Advanced Methodology

Field/Teaching Experience (4 units) Supervised Teaching Seminar (4 units) or Field Placement (4 units)

Transdisciplinary Core Course (4 units) All PhD students are required to enroll in a transdisciplinary core course from the “TNDY” course sequence during their first three semesters at Claremont Graduate University.

Portfolio In addition to 72 units of coursework, you must complete a portfolio that represents a cohesive set of experiences balancing training in your area of specialization.

PhD Completion • PhD qualifying exam • Dissertation proposal • Dissertation and oral defense

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Cognition and Neuroscience PhD

This degree offers a Cognitive or Systems and Cellular Neuroscience Track

In order to find out about ongoing research opportunities, search our faculty, and learn about admissions, please choose either the (1) Cognitive Neuroscience or (2) Systems and Cellular Neuroscience track by selecting one of the two buttons below.

Choose Your Preferred Track

What’s the difference between “cognitive” and “systems and cellular” neuroscience tracks.

Cognitive neuroscience research in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences (BBS) includes research in human psychology, including memory, perception, music and addiction. It is centered in our Department of Psychology and utilizes human neuroimaging tools such as MRI, EEG and PET. New students are directly admitted to a single research laboratory.

Systems and cellular neuroscience research in BBS focuses on neurobiological approaches in neuroscience, including molecular, cellular and systems approaches in animal models and humans. Research foci include learning and memory, stress, addiction and pain. It is centered in our Department of Neuroscience . New students typically rotate through multiple research laboratories to choose a dissertation laboratory.

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Cognition and neuroscience phd faq.

Financial support of full-time doctoral students in cognition and neuroscience is awarded through teaching or research assistantship stipends, as well as tuition scholarships. Admitted students are automatically eligible for these sources of financial support. Please see the UT Dallas Graduate Admissions site for information on other sources of financial support for PhD students.

The University of Texas at Dallas in 2019 was ranked third among U.S. universities founded in the past 50 years and is in the top 20 such universities worldwide. The total enrollment is approximately 30,000, with more than 8,000 graduate students. The main UT Dallas campus is in Richardson, Texas — about 15 miles north of downtown Dallas. However, several research centers of the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences are located in Dallas, near the campus of the UT Southwestern Medical Center. Both Richardson and Dallas are vibrant with opportunities for art, drama, music, athletics, and other activities. Visit the UT Dallas visitors website for more information about the University.

Richardson and Dallas are richly diverse cities located in one of America’s largest and fastest growing metropolitan areas. The Dallas area boasts 50,000 acres of public park land, the nation’s largest urban arts district with an excellent symphony orchestra, opera, and art museums, five major sports franchises, multiple entertainment districts, and a thriving culinary scene. The DART rail system runs from the suburbs of Plano and Richardson to the arts district, downtown Dallas, and DFW airport. Yes, it is hot in the summer, but the average annual daily temperature is 65 degrees (spring, fall, and winter are great!). The area offers a reasonable cost of living and an abundance of sunshine.

Most doctoral classes are held on the main UT Dallas campus in Richardson. Depending on the lab location of your faculty advisor, your duties as a research assistant may take place on the main campus in Richardson or at one of the centers in Dallas. Some student housing is available on the main campus in Richardson, but on-campus housing caters primarily to undergraduates. You can use online search engines to find options that fit your price range and target location.

The admissions committee evaluates applications on several dimensions, including research experience, GPA and GRE scores (optional for both tracks), letters of recommendation and personal statements. In addition, the fit between the research interests of the applicant and faculty is very important. One to three preferred faculty mentors should be named in the application.

The admissions committee invites a short list of qualified candidates to visit UT Dallas for an interview. Admissions decisions generally are made in February, and admissions offers must be accepted or declined by April 15 .

Yes. We encourage you to identify faculty who share your research interests and contact them about current opportunities for admission. A primary consideration in PhD admission in the Cognitive Neuroscience track is a faculty member’s agreement to serve as a student’s mentor. For the Systems and Cellular Neuroscience track , there are options to do rotations with multiple faculty to determine the best fit for you.

Decisions on admission are made in mid- to late-February.

There typically are 70-80 students enrolled in the cognition and neuroscience PhD program. We accept, on average, 10-20 new students per fall semester.

Over the last five years, the cognition and neuroscience program has graduated 43 PhD students. Of the 43 graduates, 30 have continued their careers at institutions of higher education, while 11 of our graduates have found employment in the private sector.

The PhD program in cognition and neuroscience overlaps with other programs in BBS. For example, many students do research and take courses in neuroscience, psychology and audiology. BBS provides an atmosphere where students are encouraged to learn from and work with experts in other programs. The cognition and neuroscience program can be distinguished from the other BBS programs by the focus on understanding the neural basis of behavior, cognition, perception, and sensory and motor processing.

This depends on your goals. The master’s degree is appropriate for students interested in cognition and neuroscience training beyond the undergraduate level, or additional training to prepare them for doctoral programs or medical school. The PhD program is appropriate for students interested in careers in research and teaching and involves extensive training in research design and methodology.

These two programs have a number of things in common. There is overlap in some coursework of these programs and many of the faculty members involved in the Cognitive Neuroscience track are involved with both programs. The cognition and neuroscience program focuses more narrowly on cognitive neuroscience or systems and cellular neuroscience, including basic neurobiology (e.g., animal behavior and neurophysiology). The psychology program allows for broader training in psychology; students can select a concentration in developmental psychology, cognitive psychology or social/personality psychology. One way to decide what program may be best for you is to think about what type of department with which you see yourself affiliated in the future, and which degree best serves your career goals. The main departments serving the PhD programs are the Department of Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, and Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing.

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Cognitive PhD Program

For information regarding the online application and admissions process, please visit the UB Graduate School. 

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Admission Requirements and Process

The Department of Psychology at the University at Buffalo uses a holistic admissions process in our consideration of applications.  This means that we evaluate the entire application, rather than any single indicator or a few indicators. Thus, applicants are viewed as a whole person, the sum of their experiences, accomplishments, and aspirations. Consistent with this, we do not rely on or use “cut offs” for numerical indices of an academic record such as grade point average. A holistic approach also means that a candidate who may be less strong in some areas, can still have a highly competitive application by having greater strength in other areas. All elements of an application are taken into consideration, to maximize a good fit of the applicant with our training program and potential mentors, to reduce bias that can result from reliance on a limited number of components, and to reduce inequities in access to opportunities for graduate training. 

Over the years, we have learned that a holistic admissions process helps us identify applicants who are likely to succeed in our graduate programs, brings a diversity of experience and ideas into our academic community, and supports a fair review of all applicants. Our goal is to recruit the next generation of academic psychologists who are passionate about making new discoveries and generating new knowledge in their chosen discipline.  We expect students to bring hard work, professional ambition, resilience, grit, intellectual acumen, and enthusiasm to our graduate programs.

Although we value quantitative criteria like GPA, we take a broad view of academic excellence and recognize that indices of success in our graduate programs and professional achievement cannot be reduced to numbers alone. In short, we endeavor to balance quantitative and qualitative indices of success. Because we want to give students the greatest opportunity to thrive in our program, we place a strong emphasis on fit with our programs and potential faculty mentors. A highly qualified applicant may not be strongly considered if their interests and goals do not provide a good fit with the orientation of our training program or with faculty research interests. Accordingly, we consider the following components in our admissions decisions: personal statement, undergraduate transcript and GPA (and prior graduate record if applicable), letters of recommendation, and resume/research experience. Interviews are required for applicants to the Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical, and Social-Personality doctoral programs, and our MA programs in General Psychology; interviews are not required for applicants to the Cognitive Psychology doctoral program. After initial review of applications, the selected applicants to programs requiring an interview will be contacted by prospective advisors to set up an interview time.

Schomburg statements are optional for applicants to our doctoral programs interested in being considered for a Schomburg Fellowship. These statements are not used for admissions decisions.

Cognitive PhD Program:

Components of the application and how they are used, personal statement (required).

Helps contextualize the more quantitative and objective credentials of an applicant.  The statement is used to evaluate the applicant’s goals and fit with the program and research interests of the faculty as well as how they would contribute to the diversity of thought and perspectives.

Prompt for Personal Statement (1000 words or less):

Describe the area of research you are interested in pursuing during your graduate studies and explain how our program would help you achieve your intellectual goals. The statement should include your academic background, intellectual interests and training or research experience that has prepared you for our program. The statement should also identify specific faculty members whose research interests align with your own interests.

Submitting Personal Statement:

Uploaded as part of the online application.

Transcript and GPA (required)

Provides evidence that the applicant is seeking challenging coursework, while excelling and showing academic growth. The University at Buffalo requires an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.  However, applications with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 can still be considered, particularly when other components of the application are strong (e.g., a high graduate GPA, etc.). 

Submitting transcripts:

Upload scanned copies of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts as part of your online application.  Include the English translation, if applicable. 

Letters of recommendation (3 required):

Provides a third-party endorsement of the applicant’s attributes, ability to succeed in the graduate program, and potential to contribute to the field.  The letter offers a perspective on the applicant’s prior achievements and potential to succeed, along with concrete examples of the subjective traits described in other elements of the application.

Submitting Letters:

Letters must be submitted electronically. Further instructions are included in the online application.

Resume and research experience (required):

Provides information on how the applicant has practically applied ideas and concepts learned in the classroom. It helps show that applicants possess the skills and dispositions needed to conduct extensive research and make substantive contributions to their chosen field.

Submitting resume

Schomburg statement (optional applications to our doctoral program):, what is a schomburg fellowship.

A Schomburg Fellowship offers support for students in doctoral programs who can demonstrate that they would contribute to the diversity of the student body, especially those who can demonstrate that they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education. In order to be eligible for the Schomburg Fellowship, you need to be either a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident and have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above. 

Here is a link to more information about Schomburg Fellowships.

https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/current-students/funding-your-degree/graduate-awards-fellowships/schomburg-fellowship.html

The Schomburg statement provides useful information in helping the faculty decide whether to nominate an applicant for the Schomburg Fellowship.

Schomburg Statement:

If you would like to be considered for a Schomburg Fellowship, please  upload a written statement with your online application  (maximum of 500 words) describing how you will contribute to the diversity of the student body in your graduate program, including by having overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education.  Please note that such categorical circumstances may include academic, vocational, social, physical or economic impediments or disadvantaged status you have been able to overcome, as evidenced by your performance as an undergraduate, or other characteristics that constitute categorical underrepresentation in your particular graduate program such as gender or racial/ethnic status.

Submitting a Schomburg statement:

What You Need to Know About Becoming a Cognitive Science Major

Cognitive science majors explore the mind and intelligence through different disciplines, including psychology, neuroscience and philosophy.

Becoming a Cognitive Science Major

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Cognitive science might be a good fit for you if you find yourself wondering what drives people to think, behave and communicate in certain ways.

Cognitive science majors study how the mind works. Students learn about cognition through an interdisciplinary curriculum that engages them in critical thinking and problem-solving. Those who are interested in better understanding cognitive processes such as memory, language, reasoning, motor control and attention, as well as how these processes affect our ability to learn, communicate and experience the world around us, might be a good fit for a degree in cognitive science.

What Is a Cognitive Science Major?

Cognitive science majors follow an interdisciplinary degree path that challenges them to examine and better understand cognitive processes. Because the field of cognitive science encompasses ideas and concepts from a number of disciplines, students in this major take classes in areas, including biology, psychology, computer science, neuroscience, linguistics, mathematics, anthropology and philosophy, to help inform their understanding of cognition.

Undergraduate coursework typically focuses on understanding foundational theories and developing practical skills so students are prepared to apply their training to their chosen fields. Cognitive science majors might also focus on a problem of interest and tailor their coursework to delve into that issue. They can also engage in research, working with faculty members on specific projects or in affiliated research labs.

Cognitive science major vs. psychology major: What’s the difference?

Given the interdisciplinary nature of cognitive science, it should come as no surprise that there is some overlap with psychology – at some schools, cognitive science is a degree offered by the psychology department. While both majors involve studying the mind, psychology is only one aspect of cognitive science. Psychology is a more concentrated major wherein students focus on human behavior and cognition. Psychology majors can specialize in particular parts of the human experience that are examined in clinical, developmental or industrial-organizational psychology.

Cognitive science majors do take some of the same courses as their psychology counterparts, but they can concentrate on other disciplines such as linguistics, artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction. Cognitive science majors may need to meet with their academic advisers to determine their course selection based on their goals and the interdisciplinary options available, so the exact degree path may look different for each student.

Common Coursework Cognitive Science Majors Can Expect

As with most majors, the cognitive science degree path often requires undergraduate students to take introductory classes that build foundational knowledge in areas such as cognition, psychology and philosophy. Once they’ve completed their introductory coursework, and depending on their program, students can typically choose from a wide selection of elective courses.

Some students might choose to focus their elective coursework in a specific area. For example, Marquette University students interested in studying cognitive science through the lens of psychology might take the psychology of racism and introductory social psychology classes to learn more about how the mind affects human behavior. Other students might even be able to choose from a tailored mix of electives offered at their school. Yale University, for example, outlines custom course plans delving into areas such as comparative cognition, gender and prejudice, and human-computer interaction.

How to Know if This Major Is the Right Fit for You

Cognitive science might be a good fit for you if you find yourself wondering what drives people to think, behave and communicate the way they do. Cognitive science also explores how we might be able to use artificial intelligence and computing to advance our ability to develop and share information.

With its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking skills, the cognitive science degree path prepares students to apply what they learn to fields including health care, business, law, psychology and education.

What Can I Do With a Cognitive Science Major?

Cognitive science majors can pursue a range of career paths and advanced study after they graduate. The degree path instills strong writing, research and analytical thinking skills that can prepare cognitive science graduates for jobs in fields such as software development , marketing, medical research, health care management, game design and education.

For graduates interested in furthering their education and research interests, master’s and doctoral programs in neuroscience, linguistics, psychology , education and other disciplines that draw on an understanding of cognitive functioning might be a good fit. Some cognitive science graduates might also choose to pursue medical school, law school or business school.

The table below contains a sampling of jobs people with a cognitive science background might pursue . Some positions, such as those in marketing or human resources, may only require a bachelor’s degree, while others, such as occupational therapist or school counselor, require an advanced degree and licensing. Whether cognitive science majors need to continue their studies or earn a professional license after obtaining their bachelor’s degree depends on each student’s chosen career.

Data is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' most recent estimates of annual salary by occupation and the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

What Cognitive Science Majors Say

"The cognitive science major allowed me to explore my interdisciplinary passions and delve into multiple academic topics. It was fascinating to learn about the human mind through different lenses. In particular, I feel fortunate to have acquired strong skills in psychology, computer science and linguistics. It is very nice to have learned the methods from these diverse disciplines and be able to blend them into a cohesive academic pursuit. For instance, in one semester I was coding the technical details behind machine learning models in one course, while discussing the philosophical implications of artificial intelligence in another, and learning the ways in which computational methods can support psychology research in yet another class. In essence, the major has been an inspiring and challenging journey, nurturing my intellectual curiosity beyond the confines of any single discipline."

- Daniel Verdi do Amarante , University of Richmond, class of 2024, cognitive science major.

"As a student majoring in cognitive science at Rice University, I’ve had a unique chance to dive into a world that’s as varied as it is fascinating. This major is like a melting pot of subjects – linguistics, psychology, neuroscience, philosophy and computer science all come together here. It’s this mix that has really pushed me to explore beyond what I thought I was capable of. In this major, there’s no shortage of chances to get hands-on with research. For me, this has meant stepping out of my usual comfort zone. I’m currently gearing up for a linguistics honors project next year. This summer, I’ll be interning at a neuroscience lab, and right now, I’m working as a research assistant in a psychology lab."

- James Belanger , Rice University, class of 2025, cognitive science major.

"Cognitive science is the study of understanding intelligence through the intersection of computer science, psychology and neuroscience. At CMU, from working as a computer vision researcher in the HyperSense Lab to developing a social distancing AI detection system, I have learned how technology can address real-world challenges by empowering others with dependable tools during uncertain times. The program’s interdisciplinary approach, along with technology-focused curriculum, provides me with a solid foundation to contribute to the evolving landscape of cognitive science. CMU’s cognitive science program is truly a dream come true for anyone aspiring to gain hands-on experience and make a positive impact in this dynamic field."

- Samhitha Srini , Carnegie Mellon University, class of 2024, Bachelor of Science in cognitive science.

Schools Offering a Cognitive Science Major

Check out some schools below that offer cognitive science majors and find the full list of schools here that you can filter and sort.

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