Columbia University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines theoretical and empirical work across cognitive, social, developmental and decision sciences. Early years emphasise core research skills: advanced statistics, experimental design, data collection methods, computational modelling and research ethics. Seminar and laboratory work cover topics such as judgement and decision making, learning and memory, social cognition, motivation, behavioural economics, causal inference, psychometrics and cognitive or affective neuroscience approaches where relevant.

Students typically undertake lab rotations or collaborative projects to gain hands‑on experience with experimental paradigms, neuroimaging, eye‑tracking, field experiments and large observational datasets. The degree culminates in a substantial, original dissertation that contributes new theory, methods or applications to behavioural science.

• Core methods courses: statistics for behavioural research, experimental design, computational methods
• Advanced topics: decision making and behavioural economics, social cognition, learning and memory, developmental approaches
• Practical training: lab rotations, teaching assistantships, grant writing and science communication
• Dissertation research: independent project under faculty supervision, culminating in written thesis and oral defence

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a strong undergraduate degree in psychology, neuroscience, economics, statistics, computer science, mathematics or a related social or quantitative discipline; many successful applicants also hold a relevant master’s. Demonstrable research experience (e.g. laboratory assistantships, undergraduate thesis, publications or research employment) is expected.

Key materials typically required include academic transcripts, a statement of research interests, a curriculum vitae, three academic or professional references, and representative writing or research samples. A solid quantitative background (coursework in statistics, linear algebra, programming or equivalent experience) is important; some faculty supervisors prioritise applicants with specific methodological skills such as coding, modelling or neuroimaging experience. Standardised test requirements (if any) and language proficiency expectations follow the University’s current admissions policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme pursue a variety of research‑oriented careers. Common pathways include tenure‑track positions in psychology, interdisciplinary behavioural science or cognitive science departments; research scientist roles in industry (tech, healthcare, finance) where behavioural insight and experimental methods are applied; policy and public‑sector research positions addressing public health, education or regulatory design; and applied roles in consulting, user experience research, behavioural design and programme evaluation.

Graduates are also well placed to join research institutes, nonprofit organisations, or corporate research labs where they lead teams, design large‑scale experiments, and translate behavioural findings into interventions or products.

Why study at Columbia University

Columbia offers a highly interdisciplinary environment with access to world‑class faculty across psychology, economics, neuroscience, public health and business. Students benefit from affiliated research centres and institutes that focus on decision sciences, computational social science and behavioural economics, providing collaborative opportunities and methodological breadth.

Being located in New York City gives students unique access to diverse populations, policy institutions, industry partners and a wide network of research collaborators. The University provides structured mentoring, funding support for doctoral students, and opportunities for teaching and professional development that prepare graduates for research leadership in both academic and applied settings.