PhD in Psychology - Comparative-Neurobiology Psychology in Stillwater United States | Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University | Stillwater United States
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Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 17,890
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
54 months

The primary objective of graduate education in the comparative-neurobiology psychology program is to cultivate deep theoretical knowledge and research skills in comparative psychology and neurobiology. Students collaborate closely with faculty mentors in this specialization. The program's mission is to equip graduates for successful careers in academia.

Comparative focus: Comparative psychology investigates behavioral parallels and contrasts across species. This scientific discipline trains researchers to systematically analyze behavioral patterns across evolutionary, developmental, and cultural dimensions. Those specializing in comparative psychology gain hands-on experience working with diverse species - from pigeons and reptiles to insects and humans - addressing fundamental and practical questions. Research areas include animal cognition, avoidance learning, behavioral toxicology, and neurotransmitter effects on memory. Students also develop expertise in creating behavioral training systems and using animal models to illustrate psychological concepts. Cross-disciplinary coursework with zoology and animal science departments is encouraged.

Neurobiology focus: Neurobiology explores the biological foundations of mental processes. Graduate researchers in this track employ various physiological measures such as saliva testing, nutritional monitoring, EEG, and ECG. Faculty research encompasses immune system function, stress physiology, and developmental neuronutrition. Program alumni have secured academic positions at institutions nationwide (including UC San Francisco and University of Kansas), pursued postdoctoral training, or entered research roles in government and private sectors (such as Brown University's medical program).


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.5

Qualification Requirements

TOEFL 79 internet-based 550 paper-based.
IELTS 6.5

Students who are successful in their application typically have GPAs of 3.3 or higher
We do not require that applicants have a bachelors degree in psychology We do require however that the applicant have specific courses on the transcript
We require three letters of reference These letters should be from psychology faculty from whom you have taken classes or under whom you have carried out research If you are applying to the Clinical Program it is advisable that you include letters from individuals with whom you have worked that can attest to your abilities industriousness interpersonal facility stability and so forth Be aware that letters of reference should contain specifics about the referees knowledge of you Positive general letters of reference are not especially helpful to us

We require a two to fourpage Statement of Purpose This statement should be typed and wellwritten This statement should address a why you want to become a psychologist b experiences you have had that enhance your psychology application c future plans after you achieve the doctorate etc For those applying to the Clinical Program carefully chronicle any job experience in the helping professions especially any jobs relating to mental health Include both paid and volunteer experience in these areas

We require that you submit a paper representative of your writing abilities preferably from an experimental psychology course a convention paper presentation or a manuscript submitted or accepted for publication If one of these is not available any paper from a psychology course will suffice Please note however that the paper will be examined for evidence of both writing skills and research expertise

One very important requirement for admission is taking the general aptitude tests of the Graduate Record Examination Average GRE aptitude score for our admitted students is 300 for verbal and quantitative combined

Tuition USD 17,890

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