Doctor of Philososphy [Ph.D] [Psychology] From Kansas State University

The first two years of graduate study are typically devoted to a broad survey of the major areas of psychology and the acquisition of certain basic research techniques. The first year of this period is spent primarily in basic courses. During the second year, students begin to satisfy related requirements, complete work on their Master’s thesis, and begin to develop a major area of professional interest. 

The third and fourth years of the doctoral program constitute a period of special training during which students are occupied to an increasing extent with pursuing their special research and professional interests. Most of their time is spent in small seminars and directed study. During this time, students must pass a final written examination that covers their major areas of interest, and complete a doctoral dissertation that constitutes an original contribution to the research literature in those areas.

Our graduate training includes an opportunity to gain supervised experience in teaching at the college level. The Teaching Apprenticeship Program provides both coursework on pedagogical methods and supervised experience as an instructor for an introductory level psychology course and, later, one or more of the department’s core or service courses. 

Close interaction between the graduate student and two skilled faculty members is maintained to provide an optimum learning environment. Because most academic positions taken by our graduates involve teaching to a greater or lesser extent, this type of formal training makes our students highly competitive in the job market.