There is a growing societal need for psychology professionals with
advanced training beyond the master's degree. In response,
Northcentral University offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD in psychology online) program that
emphasizes the integration and application of psychological theory
and research. The program culminates in a dissertation.
NCU's 100% online Psychology PhD program provides the knowledge
and skills for professional growth through advanced study in the
field and completion of dissertation research.
- The PhD in psychology online program structure
enables individuals to integrate formal academic learning with
individual and community problems so that meaningful personalized
learning takes place.
- Personal growth, self-improvement, intellectual
accomplishment, and global awareness are encouraged in the process.
Objectives
The objectives of the PhD in psychology online programs are:
- Provide the knowledge and skills for professional growth through advanced study
in the field and completion of dissertation research.
- Encourage personal growth, self-improvement, intellectual accomplishment,
and global awareness.
- Enable individuals to integrate formal academic learning with individual
and community problems so that meaningful personalized learning takes place.
Requirements
The Psychology PhD degree with specializations in Gender Studies, General Psychology, Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine,
Industrial/Organizational Psychology requires 51 graduate semester credits beyond the master's degree,
including 24 semester credits in dissertation preparation and dissertation courses. The Psychology PhD with the Marriage and Family
Therapy specialization requires 60 graduate semester credits beyond the master's degree.
A comprehensive assessment is required prior
to approval of the dissertation proposal. To satisfy the dissertation requirement, the Learner researches
and reports on a topic in such a way as to contribute original research findings to the discipline and the
academic community’s body of knowledge.
The Psychology PhD is offered in five
areas of specialization, allowing Learners to focus on what is meaningful to their professional
growth and development. Learners who complete at least 18 credits in a specialization may elect to have that
specialization recorded on their transcript and diploma. A specialization is not required.
About the Dissertation
The dissertation is the capstone academic achievement of the Psychology PhD. The dissertation is, at its heart, a
scholarly documentation of your research. To earn the PhD in psychology online you must demonstrate the ability, motivation,
and commitment; and NCU will provide the mentors and process to assist you to reach this
high academic goal.
Many who aspire to the Psychology PhD are intimidated by having to produce the dissertation. We understand the
potential for anxiety—since we went through it ourselves—and developed a logical
step-by-step process at NCU to assist you in completing your dissertation.
Four required dissertation courses will guide you in choosing a topic, documenting its
importance to the field, planning the methodology for your study, conducting the research, writing the
dissertation, and presenting the oral defense. A detailed Dissertation Handbook explaining the NCU process is
provided. NCU's Writing Program/Dissertation
Center, a specialized support program, is another outstanding resource.