PhD in Psychology - Behavioral Neuroscience in Boston United States | Northeastern University

The Psychology Department's PhD program explores diverse aspects of modern behavioral science through an intimate academic environment where faculty and students collaborate closely. Students can specialize in four interrelated experimental domains: behavioral neuroscience, cognitive processes, perceptual systems, and social/personality psychology. Note that clinical and counseling psychology training is not available. This doctoral program aims to cultivate research scholars and educators in psychology by employing a mentorship model. Students work as research apprentices under faculty guidance, supplemented by first- and second-year core courses, advanced seminars, interdisciplinary studies, research colloquia, teaching assistantships, and culminating in master's thesis and doctoral dissertation projects. Following the initial year, the program offers flexible coursework tailored to individual research trajectories. Students enhance their pedagogical and investigative abilities by supervising undergraduate researchers. This intensive five-year, year-round program maintains small cohorts to preserve its mentorship approach, matching each student with a specific faculty advisor. Research responsibilities transition progressively from mentor to student, culminating in original dissertation work. While most candidates earn a Master's degree in their second year en route to the PhD, those entering with relevant Master's degrees are exempt from this requirement.