Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is a research-focused program that equips graduates with advanced knowledge of research methods and the skills needed to conduct independent research in various areas of behavioral science. Students undertake original research that contributes to advancing knowledge in a specialized area of psychology, while developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities applicable in both academic and professional settings.

The program covers key domains of psychology, including Biological Psychology (hormones, brain function, genetics), Cognitive Psychology (attention, perception, learning, language), Developmental Psychology (lifespan development, social and cultural contexts), Individual Differences (personality, intelligence, motivation, mental health), Social Psychology (attribution, attitudes, group processes, close relationships), and Research Methods (systematic data collection, analysis, and interpretation). Graduates will become experts capable of advancing the field of psychology and are well-prepared for careers as academics or independent researchers in psychology.

Bachelor’s Degree

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology or equivalent with a CGPA of 3.00 AND

Master’s Degree

• A Master’s degree in Psychology

Other Qualifications

• Any other qualifications will be considered on a case-to-case basis*

*For case-to-case basis an interview may be required and will  subject to the approval and acceptance by the University Senate. 

English Language Requirements

Any of the following:

• IELTS: 7.0
• TOEFL: 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), 95 (Internet-based)
• PTE Academic: 65
• MUET: Band 5
• Cambridge English: Advanced/CEFR 185 (Grade A)/C1
• SPM English 1119: 2A

Note: Any other qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Research Proposal

The research proposal should comprise between 1,000 and 1,500 words (excluding references), and covers the following structure:

1. An appropriate title for the research project (designated supervisor if known)
2. Introduction and justification of the study, which includes
   • Research background
   • Problem statement
   • Research objective(s)
   • Research question(s)/hypothesis
3. Literature review
4. Research methodology
5. Proposed research schedule
6. List of references

Core Modules

Prior to starting their thesis, students complete two taught modules: Advanced Research Methods and Advanced Statistics. These modules help students develop the necessary skills to complete their research proposal. 

Thesis

In consultation with their research supervisors, students identify a research problem based on findings from existing research. They then design and conduct research on the identified problem or issue using a range of scientific techniques while following the required ethical standards. They, therefore, make a unique contribution to understanding the issue under consideration or developing new solutions to address the identified problem.

Areas of Research

The Psychology Department has three research groups: Well-being & Community Psychology, Organisational & Work Psychology, and Cognitive & Experimental Psychology. This broad range of expertise means we have research supervision in the following areas:

• Healthy Ageing
• Mental Health and Well-being
• Organisational Health
• Individual and the Workplace
• Psychology and Sustainability
• Education
  • i.e. learning environment & technology, Inclusive education, etc.
• Parenting
  • i.e socioemotional development, family mealtime, etc
• Sexual and Reproductive Health
• Cognitive Experimental
  • i.e. face perception, sense of agency, speech perception, body image, etc.
• Psychometrics/Validation Studies