Program Overview
The PhD in Psychology, Cognitive Science & Mental Health at NIRU is designed for scholars, practitioners, and researchers seeking to push the frontiers of understanding the human mind, brain, and behavior while addressing pressing challenges in mental health globally. This program integrates interdisciplinary training in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, computational modeling, and mental health policy, preparing graduates to lead in research, clinical innovation, and policy reform.
Duration: 3–5 years full-time (5–7 years part-time)
Delivery: Hybrid/online options for select seminars
Award: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Language: English
Program Aims & Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the program will be able to:
Conduct independent, original research in psychology, cognitive science, or mental health.
Employ advanced research methodologies (quantitative, qualitative, experimental, neurocognitive, computational).
Develop interventions, frameworks, and models to advance mental health outcomes and cognitive science research.
Translate scientific findings into clinical practice, educational innovation, workplace well-being, or public policy.
Demonstrate academic leadership in teaching, mentoring, grant writing, and knowledge dissemination.
Target Candidates
Psychologists, neuroscientists, cognitive scientists, and social scientists.
Clinicians (psychiatrists, mental health professionals, counselors) interested in research.
Professionals in education, technology, or social sciences aiming to bridge research and application in mental health.
Early-career researchers committed to advancing the science of cognition, behavior, and wellbeing.
Admission Requirements
Academic Qualification: Master’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, mental health, psychiatry, or a related discipline. Exceptional candidates with a strong Bachelor’s and research portfolio may be considered.
GPA: Minimum 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
Research Potential: Demonstrated through a thesis, publications, or significant professional research projects.
Professional Experience: Strongly encouraged for applicants with clinical/mental health backgrounds.
English Proficiency: TOEFL/IELTS (for non-native English speakers).
Application Materials:
CV/resume
Academic transcripts
Statement of purpose & preliminary research proposal (1,000–1,500 words)
Writing sample (e.g., thesis chapter, publication, technical report)
Three recommendation letters (at least two academic)
Interview with faculty panel
Curriculum & Structure
Year 1 – Foundations & Coursework
Advanced Cognitive Psychology
Mental Health Research Methods & Ethics
Neuroscience & Cognition
Quantitative & Qualitative Research Methods
Seminar in Global Mental Health Challenges
Research Practicum
Year 2 – Advanced Specialization & Proposal Defense
Advanced Topics (e.g., AI & Cognitive Science, Psychopathology, Mental Health Policy, Cross-Cultural Psychology)
Electives (Neuroimaging, Computational Modeling, Counseling Psychology, Developmental Disorders)
Teaching/Research Assistantship (optional)
Doctoral Candidacy Examination & Research Proposal Defense
Years 3–5 – Dissertation Research & Dissemination
Fieldwork, data collection, lab studies, or clinical research
Manuscript preparation for peer-reviewed journals
Policy/clinical translation outputs (e.g., intervention models, policy briefs)
Dissertation submission & oral defense
Research Themes
Cognitive neuroscience of learning, memory, and decision-making
Computational models of cognition and mental health
Cross-cultural psychology and global mental health systems
Stress, trauma, resilience, and mental health interventions
Digital mental health: AI, VR/AR, and technology-enabled interventions
Neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders (autism, ADHD, Alzheimer’s)
Social determinants of mental health and policy evaluation
Supervision & Mentorship
Each candidate is paired with a primary supervisor (faculty in psychology, neuroscience, or mental health) and a secondary advisor with complementary expertise.
Annual reviews ensure research progress.
Opportunities for interdisciplinary supervision with faculty in AI, public health, or policy.
Assessment
Coursework assessments (assignments, exams, presentations).
Research proposal defense (end of Year 1/early Year 2).
Annual progress reviews & milestone reports.
Peer-reviewed publications strongly encouraged (2–3 articles).
Final dissertation and viva voce (oral defense).