Graduate Research Training

Embarking on the journey toward a doctoral degree in psychology at Rosemead School of Psychology is a profound intellectual odyssey where students transcend their prior academic landscapes. In this academic realm, the journey is not just about reaching milestones; it's about becoming architects of psychological knowledge.

 

Ph.D. Research Requirements

Building upon the foundation laid during the M.A. project, the Ph.D. model propels scholars into a realm of more intricate inquiry and sophisticated research design. The Ph.D. dissertation becomes a crucible, demanding not just depth but the creation of an independent, substantial contribution to the field. Meanwhile, the M.A. project serves as a precursor, a canvas for honing research skills, allowing students to delve into psychological topics using archival data or direct replication studies.

• M.A. Project
  The M.A. project involves the planning and development of a research project on a psychological topic that will give the student valuable experience in research, and will enhance the successful completion of the dissertation. The use of archival data and direct replication studies is permissible for the M.A. project.
• Ph.D. Dissertation
  The role of dissertation research in Rosemead’s doctoral program is to provide an opportunity for students to make a major, independent contribution to the field of psychology. The Ph.D. dissertation demonstrates the student’s competency to conduct original, scholarly research.

 

Psy.D. Research Requirements

For those pursuing a Psy.D., the path diversifies, offering a trio of dissertation options — empirical research, program evaluation and theoretical synthesis. Each option, a distinct avenue, invites students to carve their mark in the realm of psychology through the rigorous collection of data, the evaluation of pertinent programs or the synthesis of previous research on a contemporary psychological topic.

• Empirical Research
  The empirical research dissertation involves the collection and analysis of data. Typically, the data used in a Psy.D dissertation will be survey data, but other research methods can be used. Implications of the findings for the practice of psychology are expected.
• Program Evaluation
  Program evaluation dissertations involve the evaluation of a specific program relevant to the practice of psychology. Findings, limitations and implications for program enhancement will be made, as well as the application of the results to a similar program.
• Theoretical Synthesis
  Theoretical synthesis can take two forms: 1) a comprehensive review of the professional literature on a specific topic relevant to the practice of psychology or 2) the theoretical development of an evidence-based program that is consistent with current theories and practice, and relevant to the practice of psychology.