Course details

Summary

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is awarded by the University for research carried out under the supervision of at least two staff members. A PhD can also be presented as a PhD with Publication or a PhD with a Creative Practice Component. The research, which must be the candidate's own work, is written up as a thesis, and may include papers published or intended to be published. The thesis is required to present the case for the research, outline the research undertaken and the findings and conclusions of that research. There is no course work for this degree.

From analysing the reasons for anger to considering the best way to train dogs, the study of Psychology allows insight into countless intriguing facets of cognitive function. As a social science, Psychology focuses on individuals within the context of families, organisations and other groups, communities, cultures and societies. As a biological science, Psychology studies the senses (hearing, vision, touch) and how the brain and physiological systems relate to behaviour. As a cognitive science, Psychology studies perception, attention, memory, thinking and language understanding. The study of development, personality, learning and motivation are also part of Psychology at Waikato, as is animal behaviour and welfare.

Career Opportunities

• Behaviour Analyst
• Clinical or Community Psychologist
• Community Programme Coordinator
• Human Resource Adviser
• Private Practitioner
• Research Scientist

Entry criteria

A bachelors with honours or masters degree with a research component of at least 30 points and have achieved at least Second Class Honours (First Division) or Distinction.

English Language Requirements

an IELTS Overall score of at least 6.5 overall (including at least 6.0 or better in the Writing band), or an iBT (Internet Based TOEFL) score of 90 with a Writing score of 22, or a B grade or better at Level 8 in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic English, or an overall score of C (with at least a C in the Writing band) in the Foundation Certificate in English for Academic Purposes, or a PTE Academic overall score of 65 with no less than 58 for each communicative skill.