Experimental psychology is a foundational area of psychological science focused on understanding human behavior through controlled research and empirical methods. From investigating memory and perception to exploring learning, attention, and emotion, experimental psychologists design studies that uncover how we think, feel, and act.
For prospective graduate students, the field offers two primary educational pathways: master’s programs, which provide rigorous research training and often serve as stepping stones to doctoral study, and PhD programs, which prepare students for careers in academia, government, and research-intensive roles. While both paths involve scientific inquiry and data analysis, they differ significantly in structure, purpose, and career outcomes.
This article explores what you can expect from experimental psychology master’s programs and PhD tracks, including degree requirements, typical coursework, sample programs, career options, and salary outlook. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a research career or simply want to deepen your knowledge of behavioral science, understanding the differences between these degrees can help you make an informed decision about your next academic step.
What Is Experimental Psychology?
Experimental psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes using empirical research methods. Psychologists in this field investigate a wide range of psychological phenomena—from perception, memory, and language to decision-making, emotion, and learning—by designing controlled experiments and analyzing data to draw evidence-based conclusions.
Rather than focusing on diagnosing or treating mental health conditions, experimental psychology centers on building a deeper understanding of how humans (and sometimes animals) think, feel, and behave in different contexts. It forms the backbone of psychological science and informs many applied fields, including clinical, educational, industrial-organizational, and health psychology.
Core Areas of Research
Common subfields within experimental psychology include:
- Cognitive psychology: attention, memory, reasoning, and language
- Developmental psychology: how psychological processes change over the lifespan
- Neuroscience/biopsychology: brain-behavior relationships
- Social psychology: how people influence and relate to one another
- Quantitative methods: statistical modeling, psychometrics, and data analysis
Core Skills and Methods
Students and professionals in experimental psychology are typically trained in:
- Research design and methodology
- Statistical analysis and interpretation
- Scientific writing and peer-reviewed publishing
- Use of lab-based tools and experimental software (e.g., eye-tracking, EEG, E-Prime, Qualtrics)
This focus on rigorous scientific training distinguishes experimental psychology from more applied psychology fields, such as counseling or clinical psychology, which center on mental health services and therapeutic interventions.
Experimental Psychology Master’s Programs: What to Expect
A master’s in experimental psychology is typically a research-intensive, thesis-based degree designed to provide foundational training in scientific methods, psychological theory, and data analysis. While these programs do not usually lead to clinical licensure, they serve several important purposes:
- Preparing students for entry into PhD programs in psychology or related fields
- Equipping graduates for research-focused roles in academia, industry, or government
- Offering a bridge for students transitioning into psychology from another discipline
Program Structure and Curriculum
Most experimental psychology master’s programs emphasize hands-on research and faculty collaboration. Students typically complete:
- Advanced coursework in research design, statistics, and psychological theory
- Electives in cognitive psychology, neuroscience, social psychology, or other subfields
- A master’s thesis based on original empirical research
- Lab work or research assistantships alongside faculty mentors
Programs usually take two years of full-time study to complete, though some may offer part-time options.
Degree Titles and Terminology
Not all relevant programs are labeled “experimental psychology.” Degrees may be titled:
- MA or MS in Psychology
- MA in Psychological Science
- MS in Behavioral and Brain Sciences
- MA in General Psychology with a research concentration
It’s essential to look beyond the title and review program descriptions to determine whether the curriculum aligns with experimental psychology master’s programs in terms of research focus and faculty expertise.
If you’re still considering multiple graduate-level options in the field, it may be helpful to review the different types of psychology master’s programs to understand how experimental tracks compare to clinical, counseling, industrial-organizational, and other alternatives.
Admission and Academic Requirements
Typical experimental psychology master’s requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field
- Coursework in statistics and research methods
- GRE scores (optional at many schools)
- Strong letters of recommendation and a clear statement of research interests
Competitive applicants often have research experience, such as an undergraduate thesis, lab assistant work, or independent study projects.
Examples of Experimental Psychology Master’s Programs
Many universities offer research-focused master’s programs in psychology that fall under the umbrella of experimental psychology, even if they are not labeled as such. These programs typically emphasize rigorous training in empirical research, statistical methods, and psychological theory.
When reviewing potential programs, look for the following features:
- Thesis requirement: Most experimental psychology master’s programs require students to complete an original research thesis under faculty supervision.
- Faculty research alignment: Programs often highlight the research interests of their faculty. Finding a good match with a faculty mentor is essential for success.
- Lab opportunities: Access to research labs, participant pools, and experimental tools (e.g., eye-tracking, psychophysiological recording, behavioral software) is a strong indicator of program quality.
- Graduate placement goals: Some programs are designed to prepare students for PhD study, while others may support entry into industry or teaching roles. Understanding the intended outcomes can help ensure program fit.
Below are several universities that offer master’s-level programs aligned with the experimental psychology model. Each varies in focus, format, and intended outcomes, so prospective students should review program details carefully to determine whether they match their goals.
Appalachian State University
- Program: MA in Psychology – Psychological Science Concentration
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Thesis required
- Focus: This program offers comprehensive training in research methods, data analysis, and core areas of psychology, including cognitive, social, developmental, and biological psychology. It emphasizes a mentor-based model, providing students with hands-on experience in developing, conducting, evaluating, and disseminating psychological research. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for doctoral programs or research-intensive careers.
Radford University
- Program: MA in Psychology – Experimental Psychology Specialization
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Thesis required
- Focus: Provides advanced training in research methodology, data analysis, and core psychological principles, suitable for students aiming for doctoral studies or research careers.
Texas A&M University–Commerce
- Program: MS in Psychology – General Psychology Emphasis
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Thesis and non-thesis options available
- Focus: Includes coursework in cognitive science, research design, and advanced topics in experimental psychology, providing a solid foundation for doctoral studies or research roles.
Towson University
- Program: MA in Psychology – Experimental Psychology Concentration
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Thesis-based; designed for PhD preparation or research careers
- Focus: Offers training in cognitive, social, biological, developmental, and clinical psychology, with a strong emphasis on research methodology and experimental design.
University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)
- Program: MA in Experimental Psychology
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Thesis required
- Focus: Emphasizes theoretical and empirical research training, including experimental design and statistical analysis, preparing students for PhD programs or research positions.
Western Illinois University
- Program: MA in Psychology – General Experimental Psychology
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Thesis required
- Focus: Offers comprehensive training in experimental psychology, preparing students for doctoral programs or research-oriented careers.
Careers and Salary with a Master’s in Experimental Psychology
A master’s degree in experimental psychology equips graduates with strong research and analytical skills, opening doors to various roles in research, data analysis, and education. However, it’s important to note that this degree typically does not qualify individuals for licensure as clinical psychologists.
Common Career Paths
Graduates with a master’s in experimental psychology often pursue positions such as:
- Research Assistant or Associate: Supporting experimental studies in academic, governmental, or private research settings.
- Lab Manager: Overseeing the daily operations of research laboratories, including managing equipment and coordinating studies.
- Data Analyst: Interpreting complex data sets for organizations in sectors like healthcare, marketing, or technology.
- Program Evaluator: Assessing the effectiveness of programs and interventions in educational or social service organizations.
- Community College Instructor: Teaching introductory psychology courses, often requiring additional teaching credentials depending on the institution.
- User Experience (UX) Researcher: Applying psychological principles to improve product design and user interaction.
Salary Expectations
Salaries for individuals with a master’s in experimental psychology can vary significantly based on the role, sector, and geographic location. Because this degree is typically geared toward non-licensed research or academic support roles, there are few direct BLS classifications specific to it. However, typical job titles and their corresponding salary estimates include:
- Social science research assistants had a mean annual wage of $62,370 as of May 2023, according to the BLS.
- Survey researchers earned a mean salary of $66,670, with higher wages in government and tech sectors.
- Postsecondary teaching assistants and lab managers in university settings may earn between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on the institution and responsibilities.
Roles in user experience (UX) research or data analysis—particularly in private-sector industries—can command higher salaries, often starting around $65,000 and rising with experience.
Ultimately, salary potential depends not just on education, but also on industry, technical skill set, and regional demand. While a master’s in experimental psychology opens the door to various research-support and data-centric roles, it generally does not lead to clinical or high-level research positions without further graduate study.
Considerations for Advancement
While a master’s degree provides valuable skills and opportunities, many advanced positions in experimental psychology, particularly in academia or high-level research, often require a PhD. Prospective students should consider their long-term career goals when deciding whether to pursue further education.
Experimental Psychology PhD Programs: What to Expect
PhD programs in experimental psychology offer comprehensive, research-centered training designed to prepare students for careers in academia, industry, or government research. Unlike master’s programs, which may be terminal or preparatory, PhD programs are considered the standard route to independent research and university-level teaching roles in psychology.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Experimental psychology PhD programs typically span 5 to 7 years and involve:
- Advanced coursework in research design, quantitative methods, and specialized topics in cognition, neuroscience, perception, or social behavior
- Original research projects leading to peer-reviewed publications
- Comprehensive exams to demonstrate mastery of the field
- A doctoral dissertation, based on original empirical research
- Teaching or research assistantships, which also serve as professional development opportunities
PhD students often work closely with one or more faculty mentors in lab-based settings and are encouraged to develop a focused research identity through their dissertation and conference presentations.
Funding and Assistantships
Most reputable experimental psychology PhD programs offer full or partial funding in the form of tuition waivers, research assistantships, or teaching assistantships. In exchange, students typically provide support for faculty research or undergraduate instruction.
Funding packages may include:
- Full or reduced tuition
- A living stipend (often $20,000–$35,000 per year)
- Health insurance or other benefits
Prospective students should evaluate the structure and duration of funding, as well as teaching and research expectations, when comparing programs.
Purpose and Outcomes
While master’s programs in experimental psychology are often stepping stones or career bridges, PhD programs are geared toward those seeking:
- Academic faculty positions at universities and colleges
- Leadership roles in research (e.g., principal investigator, lab director)
- Specialized research positions in federal agencies, think tanks, or corporate R&D teams
PhD graduates are expected to contribute new knowledge to the field through original research and peer-reviewed scholarship.
Examples of Experimental Psychology PhD Programs
Many research universities across the U.S. offer PhD programs in experimental psychology or closely related areas. These programs may fall under broader psychology departments but typically include focused training in areas such as cognitive psychology, neuroscience, perception, learning, or behavioral science.
When evaluating programs, consider the following:
- Faculty research specialties: Look for alignment between your interests and the faculty’s active research areas.
- Lab structure and resources: Investigate whether the program has dedicated labs, equipment, and research opportunities relevant to your focus.
- Funding guarantees: Determine whether funding is offered for the full duration of the program, and whether it’s tied to research or teaching duties.
- Graduate outcomes: Review where alumni have gone—postdocs, academic placements, industry roles—to assess the program’s track record.
- Collaborative and interdisciplinary options: Some programs allow or encourage cross-departmental work in fields like linguistics, neuroscience, or data science.
The following group of diverse institutions offer PhD training in experimental psychology. These examples represent a range of research strengths and specializations.
Central Michigan University
- Program: Ph.D. in Applied Experimental Psychology
- Institution Type: Public Regional University
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Full-time; includes coursework, research, teaching, and dissertation
- Focus: The program is designed to provide advanced training in psychological processes and quantitative-methodological procedures (e.g., statistics, experimental design, computer applications) and their utilization in an applied setting.
Saint Louis University
- Program: Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology
- Institution Type: Private (Jesuit)
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Full-time; includes coursework, research, teaching, and dissertation
- Focus: The program includes three concentration areas: cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology, and social psychology. All areas integrate theory and research in courses, research, and professional experiences.
University of California, San Diego
- Program: Ph.D. in Psychology – Cognitive Science
- Institution Type: Public Research University
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Full-time; includes coursework, research, teaching, and dissertation
- Focus: Emphasizes experimental approaches to understanding cognitive processes and behavioral neuroscience. Students engage in rigorous research training, preparing for academic and research careers.
University of Texas at Dallas
- Program: Ph.D. in Psychology
- Institution Type: Public Research University
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Full-time; includes coursework, research, teaching, and dissertation
- Focus: The Psychology Ph.D. degree program offers advanced study and research training for students seeking to become leading scientists and scholars in the field. The program offers training in developmental, cognitive, and social/personality psychology with an emphasis on interdisciplinary research and tailored training experiences that adapt to the specific needs of each student.
Washington State University
- Program: Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology
- Institution Type: Public Land-Grant University
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Full-time; includes coursework, research, teaching, and dissertation
- Focus: The program is designed to produce highly skilled experimental psychologists with specialized training in one of five areas: Behavior Analysis, Cognition, Biological-Psychology, Sensation and Perception, and Social/Organizational Psychology.
Yale University
- Program: Ph.D. in Psychology – Cognitive Psychology Track
- Institution Type: Private (Ivy League)
- Format: On-campus
- Structure: Full-time; includes coursework, independent research, teaching, and dissertation
- Focus: The Cognitive Psychology program is concerned with basic research in perception, human learning and memory, consciousness, thinking and problem solving, language, and intelligence, as well as with applications of this basic research to everyday settings. Students are encouraged to read widely both in the cognitive area and in related disciplines, such as computer science, linguistics, philosophy, and statistics
Careers and Salary with a PhD in Experimental Psychology
Earning a PhD in experimental psychology opens doors to advanced research and academic positions. Graduates are equipped to lead independent studies, contribute to scientific literature, and teach at the university level.
Common Career Paths
- Academic Faculty: Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, mentoring students, and conducting research in universities.
- Principal Investigator: Leading research projects in governmental agencies, private research institutions, or non-profit organizations.
- Industry Researcher: Applying psychological principles to product development, user experience, or organizational behavior in corporate settings.
- Government Analyst: Designing and evaluating public policies or programs based on behavioral research.
Salary Expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for psychologists was $92,740 as of May 2023. However, salaries vary by role and sector:
- Postsecondary psychology teachers earned a median annual wage of $82,140 in 2023, with potential for higher earnings at research universities or with tenure.
- Government and industry researchers can earn $100,000 or more, depending on seniority, specialization, and location.
While a PhD increases access to higher-paying and leadership roles, salary outcomes also depend on factors like research funding, institutional type, and geographic region.
How to Choose the Right Program (Master’s or PhD)
Selecting between a master’s or PhD program in experimental psychology depends on your long-term academic and professional goals. While both pathways offer valuable training in research and analysis, they differ in scope, intensity, and outcomes.
Define Your Long-Term Goals
Start by asking:
- Do you want to conduct independent research or become a college professor? → You’ll likely need a PhD.
- Are you interested in working in research support, education, or data analysis, but not ready to commit to a doctoral program? → A master’s might be the right first step.
- Are you considering a career pivot into psychology from another field? A master’s degree can provide foundational skills and clarify whether a PhD is the right next move.
Evaluate Program Design and Fit
Look closely at each program’s:
- Curriculum: Does it include the topics and methods that interest you?
- Faculty research areas: Can you see yourself working with a specific advisor or lab?
- Resources and facilities: Are there active research labs, funding opportunities, or collaborative projects available?
- Program length and structure: Does the format (e.g., full-time vs. part-time, online vs. in-person) work for your life?
Consider Funding and Cost
- PhD programs often offer tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for teaching or research assistantships.
- Master’s programs are more likely to be self-funded, though some offer scholarships or part-time work opportunities.
Weigh the cost of attendance against your expected career outcomes and whether the degree will significantly advance your professional goals.
Review Placement Rates and Alumni Outcomes
Some programs publish data on where their graduates go after completing the degree. This might include:
- PhD acceptances for master’s graduates
- Faculty placements for PhD alumni
- Non-academic roles in tech, healthcare, or government sectors
If this data isn’t available online, consider asking admissions staff or current students about recent outcomes.
FAQ: Experimental Psychology Degrees
Is a master’s required for a PhD?
Not always. Some students enter experimental psychology PhD programs directly after completing a bachelor’s degree. However, a master’s degree can strengthen your application—especially if you need more research experience, academic preparation, or time to clarify your interests. Some PhD programs also confer a master’s degree en route to the doctorate.
What’s the difference between experimental and clinical psychology?
Experimental psychology focuses on research and theory—investigating how people think, learn, and behave under controlled conditions. Clinical psychology centers on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions through therapy and intervention. The two paths differ significantly in terms of coursework, licensure, and career outcomes.
If you’re unsure which path aligns with your goals, it may be useful to explore the different types of psychologists and how they contribute to the field in diverse ways.
Are online programs available?
Fully online experimental psychology master’s programs are rare, due to the research and lab work involved. However, a few hybrid programs may offer online coursework combined with in-person research or mentoring. PhD programs in this field are generally not offered online, as they require full-time lab engagement and close faculty collaboration.
How long do these degrees take?
- Master’s in experimental psychology: Typically 2 years of full-time study
- PhD in experimental psychology: Usually 5–7 years, including dissertation research and assistantships
Program length can vary depending on funding structure, research progress, and individual circumstances.
Exploring Your Next Steps
If you’re considering graduate study in experimental psychology, start by clarifying your career goals—whether you’re aiming for research, teaching, or data-driven roles. Explore program websites, review faculty interests, and reach out to departments with thoughtful questions about curriculum, mentorship, and outcomes.
A well-aligned master’s or PhD program can shape your academic and professional future. Take the time to evaluate your options carefully, and focus on finding a path that matches both your interests and long-term aspirations.
