PhD in Psychology - Perception 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. This program focuses on four interrelated experimental domains: behavioral neuroscience, cognitive processes, perceptual systems, and social/personality psychology. Note that clinical and counseling psychology are not included in this curriculum. The primary aim is to develop students into skilled researchers and educators in psychological science. This is achieved through an apprenticeship model where graduate students work alongside faculty mentors in research laboratories throughout their studies. Beyond this core mentorship, the program includes first- and second-year coursework, advanced seminars, interdisciplinary opportunities, research colloquia, teaching assistantships, master's thesis work, and doctoral dissertation preparation with oral defense. Following the initial year, the program structure becomes more adaptable to accommodate individual research trajectories and learning styles. Students gain valuable teaching and research experience by supervising undergraduate research assistants. Designed as a continuous five-year commitment, the program maintains small cohort sizes to preserve its mentorship approach, with applicants accepted to work with specific faculty members. Research responsibilities transition progressively from mentor to student, culminating in the doctoral dissertation. While all students complete a Master's degree by their second year en route to the PhD, those entering with a relevant Master's degree are exempt from this requirement.