PhD in Developmental Psychology

The doctoral program in developmental psychology focuses on human developmental processes—including biological, cultural, social, and psychophysiological factors. Our program values a collaborative, integrative approach to psychological science that fosters intellectual curiosity and innovation, invests in people in a supportive, inclusive environment, and serves the public good. One of our primary goals is to prepare you for independent research, scholarship, and teaching careers. We collaborate with Denver area organizations like the Denver Health Hospital Authority so that you receive unique, hands-on opportunities to develop practical knowledge and skills. You can also participate in faculty grant efforts and pursue independent research grants. The PhD program in Developmental Psychology offers: Developmental research labs that use technologies like structural and functional MRI, genotyping, cognitive testing and video recording to examine developmental processes. Ongoing collaborations with sites like the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, the Institute for Behavioral Genetics and with community partners like local Head Start centers. Professional development and support through weekly faculty-student meetings and a formal mentoring program for incoming graduate students. Regular opportunities to present research at conferences like the Society for Research in Child Development and the International Society of Developmental Psychobiology. Support and encouragement in obtaining external grants to support student work and advance careers. Students are active collaborators with each other and with faculty in diverse projects.

Bachelors degree: All graduate applicants must hold an earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university or the recognized equivalent from an international institution.University GPA requirement: The minimum grade point average for admission consideration for graduate study at the University of Denver must meet one of the following criteria:A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the baccalaureate degree.A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits (approximately two years of work) for the baccalaureate degree.An earned master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the recognized equivalent from an international institution supersedes the minimum GPA requirement for the baccalaureate.A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all graduate coursework completed for applicants who have not earned a master’s degree or higher.