Department of Psychology

The BYU Psychology PhD program offers more than advanced academic training—it cultivates scholars in a faith-based environment where collaboration, integrity, and innovation are central. Graduates leave well-prepared for competitive academic, research, and industry roles, having gained extensive experience through publishing and teaching. With dedicated mentorship, broad financial support, and a culture that encourages both intellectual and personal growth, the program provides an ideal environment for those looking to make a lasting impact in the field of psychology.

Emphasis Areas:

Students begin with a solid foundation in psychological theory, research methods, and data analysis. After this core training, each student focuses their studies by selecting one of three emphasis areas:

· Applied Social Psychology: Explores how individuals interact within social environments and how behavior is shaped by societal factors.

· Cognitive & Behavioral Neurosciences: Investigates the brain and mental processes underlying human thought and behavior.

· Developmental Psychology: Studies psychological growth and change throughout the human lifespan. More information on the emphasis areas can be found here.

An optional sub-specialty in Health Psychology is also available for those interested in exploring the intersection between psychological processes and physical well-being.

Mentorship:

A key part of the program is its strong emphasis on mentorship and collaboration. Each student is paired with a faculty advisor and receives guidance from a supportive committee throughout their studies. Opportunities to publish, present research at national conferences, and gain teaching experience are built into the program, helping students grow as scholars and professionals.

Financial Support

The program typically takes 5–6 years to complete and offers robust financial support, including tuition coverage, teaching and research assistantships, and university fellowships. The low cost of living in Provo, Utah further adds to the program’s affordability.

BYU’s Psychology PhD program provides a place for emerging scholars to grow—intellectually, professionally, and personally—while preparing to lead in the field of

psychology. Further information about the program, faculty, and application process can be found at psychology.byu.edu or by contacting psychgrad@byu.edu.