Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Performance Psychology


The PhD in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Performance Psychology focuses on the psychology of human performance, in particular, professions that demand excellence in psychomotor performance. This program applies theories of emotion, cognition, and motivation to understand peak performance. The goal is to improve learning and performance conditions including regulating emotion, attention, information processing factors, strategies and decision-making. Course topics include foundations of performance psychology, psychomotor performance, principles of behavior modification, psychology of leadership, and performance enhancement.

In earning a PhD in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Performance Psychology, learners will examine empirical, research-based approaches to understanding mental and thought processes including memory, reasoning, intelligence, motivation and learning. Scholars will examine the social, group and multicultural factors affecting individual behavior, the influence of mass communication on social awareness, and control. The construction, analysis and interpretation of psychological tests to measure learning outcomes are also taught.

The application of performance psychology is broader than that of industrial/organizational psychology, though both share a common goal of improving employee performance through similar means, such as goal setting.

Students are advised to inquire directly with their state if they intend to pursue licensure, as this degree does not lead directly to licensure in and of itself. Entry to this program requires a graduate degree and related coursework.

For those seeking a doctoral level degree designed for those who want to consult or lead change management in an organization, you may also want to consider:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

For some individuals, a doctoral degree may seem out of reach. At Grand Canyon University, we have developed a program that includes an integrated dissertation process as well as a dynamic community that supports you along your doctoral journey.

Unlike many programs where learners are expected to complete a core set of specializations prior to beginning their dissertation; at GCU learners begin the dissertation process from the beginning of their program of study. From the very first course where learners are introduced to the doctoral dispositions, through subsequent residencies and milestones, scholars progressively build the skills and understanding necessary to research, write the results and, finally, defend their dissertation.

Program Disclosure

Category Non-Traditional Traditional
Books & Supplies (Per Program) $1,900 N/A
Tuition & Fees (Per Program) $38,350 N/A
Room & Board (Per Semester, If Applicable) $3,434
On Time Graduation Rate N/A N/A
Median Private Loan Debt N/A N/A
Median TIV Loan Debt N/A N/A
Median Institutional Financing Plan Debt N/A N/A

Program SOC

Occupations
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Training and Development Specialists
  1. It is the policy of the University to collect and remit sales, use, excise and/or gross receipts taxes in compliance with state and local taxing jurisdiction regulations which require the University to remit tax where applicable. These regulations vary by location. Please note: It is also the policy of the University to require payment of sales, use, excise, and/or gross receipts tax. Payment of tax is ultimately the student's financial responsibility to the University regardless of financing arrangements. Per Hawaii requirements: It is hereby stated that students residing in the State of Hawaii will be charged Hawaii General Excise Tax on all transactions. Students living in the District of Oahu will be charged 4.5%. Students residing in other Hawaii districts will be charged 4.0%.
  2. Book costs are based on an average. Costs may increase or decrease depending on electronic availability or publisher's book costs.
  3. Room and board costs may be higher or lower depending on housing and meal plan choice. This number is based on an average for students on campus.
  4. Some Non-Traditional programs may be offered on the ground campus or on-line.
  5. N/A identifies that a program is not offered in that modality or that fewer than 10 students graduated within the reported timeframe.
  6. Tuition and Fees for each program are based on current rates. Future Tuition and Fee Rates may vary. Tuition was calculated using the number of credit hours in the program times the current tuition rate and includes the Graduation Fee. Full time students enrolled at a program taken at the main campus include a Student Activity Fee, charged every semester. Online programs include a one time Learning Management Fee. Some programs may also include additional fees based on course materials.
  7. On-time graduation rates and median loan debt are based on students who graduated in the 2011-2012 award year.
  8. Not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities.
  9. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment.

Disclosure Information

* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Program subject to change.

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