Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

University of Canterbury

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and associated biological, cognitive, and social processes in humans and other animals. It is a rapidly developing field touching on all aspects of human life. Advances in neuro-imaging and molecular biology are rapidly enhancing our understanding of how the brain works, while increasingly complex theories are being developed to understand behavioural development of individuals and groups. Major advances are being made in understanding and treating psycho-pathologies such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and addictions. Psychology students are trained to: think independently and critically about psychological issues become knowledgeable about the key methods, important findings, and major theories of psychology learn how to distinguish genuine findings from implausible and suspect claims understand modern scientific research in psychology.