We're excited that you're interested in joining the OSU Psychology PhD Program!
Applications
How to Apply: Admission applications are made to the OSU Office of Graduate Education (http://graduate.oregonstate.edu/admissions/process) and those meeting minimum Office of Graduate Education Requirements are forwarded on to the SPS.
Fee Waivers: SPS does not currently have a program to provide fee waivers. Please see the Office of Graduate Education's website for other eligibility (https://graduate.oregonstate.edu/admissions/graduate-application-fee-waivers).
Deadline: The application deadline for enrollment in Fall 2025 is Sunday, December 1, 2024.
Applicant Qualifications:
We look forward to reading your application.
SPS uses a holistic admissions process to evaluate every applicant and a committee makes final admissions decisions. Submitting GRE test scores is optional. Grade point averages, GRE scores if submitted, and grades in research methods and statistics coursework are considered in the process but represent one evaluation criteria within the holistic admissions process.
Applicants who are a good fit for the OSU Psychology PhD program have a background in research design and quantitative analysis; clear career goals aligned with the program and faculty research labs; and life experiences and background that contribute to the diversity and inclusion of the discipline.
The program admits students only in Fall term on the Corvallis campus. It is not offered in an online version. As the program is not designed to offer a terminal Master's degree, only individuals who intend to earn a PhD should apply.
Application Material Guidance
1. Include a Statement of Objectives, addressing:
- Your proposed focus of study, research interests, career goals, and how the PhD program and specific program faculty with whom you hope to work would help you meet those goals.
- Personal strengths, skills, perspectives, and experiences that will contribute to values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the discipline.
2. Include a Resume/Curriculum Vitae
3. Include contact information for at least one, but no more than three people who will provide a letter of reference.
- References should be able to speak to your research and/or professional skills, or your preparation for graduate training.
- References from personal relationships (e.g., a family friend) will not be considered.
- Contact information for reference writers can be submitted before the final application is submitted, thus allowing as much time as possible for the writers to submit reference letters.
4. Academic Transcripts
5. Test Scores
- Optional: GRE general test scores
- TOEFL scores are required for applicants whose native language is not English, or did not receive a bachelor or higher degree in an English speaking country (see Office of Graduate Education website)
6. If applicable, Resident Noncitizen/Permanent Resident Card and Financial Documentation (See Office of Graduate Education website)
Review of applications will only include the information listed above; other provided documents will not be reviewed by the SPS admissions committee.
Many students find it useful to connect with potential mentors ahead of submitting their application to ensure their research interests align and the potential mentor is accepting students. For brief descriptions of research interests of SPS mentors and links to their contact information, see our About page.
We endeavor to communicate as soon as possible to each applicant an offer of admission, waitlist information, or a decision not to accept so every applicant has the best information to make decisions in a timely manner.