Study Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology at University of Canterbury in New Zealand, Faculty of Science
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Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

New Zealand

37

What will I learn?

The UC Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-only degree, carried out under expert supervision and using world-class facilities. At UC you can complete a PhD in over 70 subjects, joining over 1,000 students from more than 60 nations. A PhD involves extensive, sustained, and original research in your chosen subject, with the results being presented in a thesis that will contribute to intellectual knowledge of the field. It is a mark of intellectual ability, self-discipline, and commitment. A PhD prepares you for a number of careers, including as an academic. There are many benefits for international students studying towards a PhD in Aotearoa New Zealand, such as the possibility to work while studying, apply for a work visa once graduated, pay domestic student fees, and school and work benefits for your partner and children. 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. Study Involve: UC offers a balanced and comprehensive set of courses, excellent opportunities to undertake work in experimental psychology, and has nationally and internationally recognised postgraduate applied programmes in Industrial and Organisational Psychology, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Child and Family Psychology, and Clinical Psychology (leading to professional registration as a psychologist). UC has more than 25 specialist academic staff offering a diverse range of research and teaching options. You can become involved in research projects and may make significant contributions to the discipline. Te Kura Mahi a-Hirikapo, School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing provides modern computer-based laboratories excellent digital recording and editing equipment an extensive library of psychological tests and laboratories for human performance, human-robot interaction, animal behaviour and neuroscience, perception and cognition, and social, developmental, and applied psychology. UC has a Psychology Clinic where clinical students receive training, and has working relationships with Te Poari Hauora o Waitaha, Canterbury District Health Board, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa, Department of Corrections, offering opportunities for research and clinical internships.

Which department am I in?

Faculty of Science

Study options

Full Time (3 Years)

Tuition fees
NZ$8,085.00 (US$ 4,823) per year
Annual fee estimate- 8,085 - 9,737 (subject dependent) per 120 points

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

December 2026

Venue

UC Ilam Campus

20 Kirkwood Avenue,

Upper Riccarton,

Christchurch,

Canterbury,

8041, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

Entry requirements

For international students

Enrolment in a PhD requires completion of a research-focused honours or masters degree, at First or Second Class (Division I) Honours or Distinction level (or equivalent qualifications).

Applicants with qualifications from outside Aotearoa New Zealand must have been granted admission to the University. Our admissions team, in consultation with the host department, look at your qualifications and transcripts to ensure that you have the background required to complete a PhD. It is possible that you may be required to complete preparatory courses prior to or after admission into a PhD programme.

In exceptional circumstances applicants without the typical academic background, but who can demonstrate the ability to pursue a PhD, may be admitted at the discretion of the Dean of Postgraduate Research.

One or more courses in this degree may also require vaccinations.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

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About University of Canterbury

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