PhD in Psychology

Brigham Young University (BYU) is a private research university in Provo, Utah, founded in 1875 and sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university is known for integrating academic rigor with an emphasis on personal development, ethical leadership and community service. BYU’s campus culture centers on strong student engagement, values-based education and a vibrant student life that emphasizes both scholarship and character formation.

BYU offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, business, engineering, education and the performing arts, supported by active research centers and practical learning opportunities. Students benefit from small-class interactions, faculty mentorship and abundant extracurricular options that develop professional skills and civic-minded leadership. Career services and industry connections help students apply classroom learning through internships and research projects.

International students find at BYU a supportive environment with structured student services, language resources and community networks that facilitate cultural adjustment and academic success. Honor code expectations and campus traditions create a cohesive community, while study abroad, volunteer programs and partnerships extend global learning. For students seeking a values-focused education with strong academic support and experiential opportunities, BYU offers a distinctive blend of scholarship, service and personal growth.

The PhD in Psychology at Brigham Young University is a 4-year doctoral program for students with a Master's degree. It offers a rigorous educational experience leading to a PhD degree in Psychology. The program's main advantages include specialized training in one of three emphasis areas.

The curriculum provides broad acquaintance with the substantive areas of psychology, training in research skills, and introduction to particular areas of emphasis. Students will pursue specialized course work and training in one of three main emphasis areas: Applied Social Psychology, Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, or Developmental Psychology, and a sub-specialty of Health Psychology. The program also includes hands-on research experience.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Clinical Psychologists, Counseling Psychologists, Health Psychologists, Neuropsychologists, or Research Psychologists. They can work in various industries, including healthcare, education, and research institutions, and can be employed by organizations such as hospitals, universities, and government agencies.