About the Ph.D. in Psychology Program
The Department of Psychology offers a doctorate in psychology with various concentration
options. Students may pursue programs in clinical psychology (APA accredited), social psychology, cognitive development or psychology and law.
Clinical Psychology
Students complete a four-year, on-campus sequence of courses. These courses teach
core areas of psychology and clinical competency. Students additionally complete a
thesis, a preliminary comprehensive examination, a dissertation, one summer clerkship
and a one-year APA accredited internship.
Social Psychology, Cognitive Development or Psychology and Law
Students complete course requirements in core areas of psychology, as well as a preliminary
comprehensive examination and a research-based dissertation.
Students receive a stipend and tuition & fee package when in good standing, funding
permitting.
Application materials include the application, a statement of purpose, undergraduate
and graduate (if applicable) transcripts, curriculum vitae and three letters of recommendation.
An application fee of $50 is required.
Applications are evaluated based on the applicants’ academic qualifications, stated
research and (if applicable) clinical interests. Particular attention is paid to the
fit between the applicant’s expressed research and clinical interests and the particular
strengths and offerings of our program.
The deadline for receipt of all application materials is December 1. We only admit students one time per year. Our graduate students begin their programs
of study in the fall semester.
Although our graduate programs technically consist of separate master’s and doctoral degree components, only students who are applying for, and who expect to complete, the doctoral program are considered for admission. That is, we do not offer a terminal master’s degree.
Get your questions answered by visiting our admission process page or giving us a call at (307) 766-6303.
What can you do with a Psychology doctorate degree?
With a doctorate in psychology, you open the door to a wide range of exciting and meaningful career paths. Whether you want to help people through therapy, shape policy, teach, lead research or work in business or healthcare, this degree gives you the skills and knowledge to make a real difference and follow your passion.
- Academic positions at Vanderbilt University, California State University San Bernardino, the University of Mississippi, and Brown University
- Associate Chief of Mental Health at Cheyenne VA
- Drug Treatment Program Coordinator at a Federal Corrections Facility
- Senior Manager at Under Armor
- Research Manager at Nielsen
- Senior Methodologist at Oracle Life Sciences
- Population Health Analyst at Legacy Health
- CVS Health
- University of Wyoming
- University of Colorado
- National Jewish Health
- University of Maryland
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- University of Northern Colorado
- Stockton University
- EDCare
- LIV Health
In recent years, our clinical psychology students have had a 100% match rate with clinical internships, and our non-clinical students have had a 100% employment rate.
Psychology PhD graduates are increasingly sought after in a growing number of fields that recognize the value of psychological expertise. Beyond traditional clinical roles, they are making meaningful contributions in industries such as:
- Healthcare
- Academia
- Government
- Private Sector
- Nonprofits
- Forensic and Legal
- and more!
Real Experience Beyond the Classroom
When you join the University of Wyoming’s doctoral program in psychology, you’re not just learning from textbooks—you’re learning from professors who are also active professionals in the field. They bring real-world experience into the classroom, offering guidance, support and mentorship that helps you grow both academically and professionally. This is the perfect setting to gain hands-on experience as you progress through the program!
“When I interviewed here I noticed that people were collaborating. You can see cross-departmental collaboration and students collaborating with their peers as well, it is really unique."
- Alexandra Bitter, Ph.D '22
