PhD in Psychological Sciences - Quantitative Methods in Nashville United States | Vanderbilt University

The Quantitative Methods (QM) program faculty instruct students in cutting-edge statistical techniques while conducting research that both advances and implements these methods. Doctoral candidates in QM gain specialized knowledge in research design principles and the theoretical underpinnings of sophisticated statistical models for behavioral analysis. Throughout their graduate studies, students collaborate closely with faculty mentors on research initiatives, frequently partnering with other professors and peers. QM instructors possess collective proficiency in structural equation modeling, factor analysis, network analysis, item response theory, exploratory data techniques, mediation/moderation analysis, longitudinal approaches, multilevel modeling, mixture models, categorical data analysis, and generalized linear models. Faculty explore these methodologies from multiple perspectives, including: creating computational resources to enhance adoption of innovative or established techniques, assessing method effectiveness in practical scenarios, and employing these approaches creatively to address complex research questions. Many QM professors maintain specialized expertise in areas like personality psychology, clinical psychology, learning sciences, developmental psychology, and individual differences, enabling deep examination of analytical methods relevant to these fields. Depending on individual and advisor preferences, students can customize their curriculum with varying emphasis on psychological content alongside quantitative coursework.