In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.

Find a Graduate Program

Psychology

Columbian College of Arts & Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Location(s): Foggy Bottom - Main Campus

Program Overview

As part of the social and behavioral sciences discipline, students explore psychological theory, develop research skills and understand how to approach issues within communities and societies. The program offers courses that reflect the wide-ranging field of psychology as the study of normal and abnormal behavior and of the psychological, social and biological processes related to that behavior.

The clinical program is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association. It focuses on research and preventive interventions in behavioral, health, diversity and community issues. The cognitive neuropsychology program provides intense, focused training and research experience in the areas of cognition, learning and memory, with emphasis on the psychobiological determinants of these functions. Students in the applied social psychology program take a core of classes on topics including social influence, attitudes and the behavior of individuals in organizations, in addition to learning basic and advanced research techniques, such as multivariate analyses and survey methods.

Admission Requirements

Admission deadlines: Fall – December 1 (Clinical Psychology); January 15 (all other concentrations)
Standardized test scores:  GRE general test (institutional code 5246)
Recommendations required:  Three (3) recommendations
Prior academic records:  Transcripts are required from all colleges and universities attended, whether or not credit was earned, the program was completed, or the credit appears as transfer credit on another transcript. Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be uploaded to your online application. Official transcripts are required only of applicants who are offered admission.

International applicants should upload only the English-language version of their transcripts.
Statement of purpose: 
In an essay of 250 – 500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field. Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans. Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on the application. If you are applying for an assistantship or fellowship, you should also describe any teaching experience you have had.
Additional requirements:
Applicants to the concentration in Clinical Psychology must submit a current resume and a prospective advisor form (available at www.gwu.edu/~psycdept).
International applicants only:  Please review International Applicant Information carefully for details on required documents and English language requirements.
*Please note that if a deadline falls on a weekend (Saturday or Sunday), or a GW holiday, applications will be accepted the next business day.

For more information on the admission process, please visit the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences Frequently Asked Questions page.

Supporting documents not submitted online should be mailed to:

Columbian College of Arts and Sciences – Graduate Admissions Office
 The George Washington University
 801 22nd Street NW, Phillips Hall 107
 Washington DC 20052

Contact for questions:
 askccas@gwu.edu ~ 202.994.6210 (phone) ~ 202.994.6213 (fax)
 8:30 am – 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday