A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cognition/Cognitive Development is a research-oriented degree that focuses on the study of the human mind and its development. This degree program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and empirical aspects of cognitive psychology, including attention, perception, memory, language, reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Students pursuing a PhD in Cognition/Cognitive Development typically engage in rigorous coursework, research projects, and dissertation work. They also receive training in various research methods, including experimental design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, or private industries. They may work as professors, researchers, consultants, or analysts in fields such as psychology, neuroscience, education, human-computer interaction, or artificial intelligence. Some of the key skills that students can expect to develop during their PhD in Cognition/Cognitive Development program include critical thinking, analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and research design and execution. They also gain valuable experience in data analysis, scientific writing, and communication, which are essential for success in any research-oriented career.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course Name | PhD in Cognition/cognitive Development |
Course Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Cognition/cognitive Development |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Course Duration | 3 Years |
Course Fee | Notified Soon |
Course Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
Typically, students can expect to spend four to six years completing the program, including coursework, research, and dissertation. |
Admission to a PhD program in Cognition/Cognitive Development is highly competitive, and selection criteria may vary depending on the program.
In general, applicants are evaluated based on their academic performance, research experience, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and performance on entrance exams.
To apply for a PhD program in Cognition/Cognitive Development, applicants must typically apply online, including transcripts from previous academic institutions, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and entrance exam scores.
Some universities may also require an interview or additional application materials.
It is recommended to check with each program for specific application instructions and deadlines.
The application form for a PhD program in Cognition/Cognitive Development can be found on the website of the university or college offering the program.
Applicants are required to submit the completed application form along with all the required documents, including transcripts, entrance exam scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
The fee may range from Notified Soon and some universities may offer fee waivers for eligible applicants. |
Academic Researcher/Professor: Many PhD graduates choose to pursue careers in academia, conducting research in universities or colleges. They may teach courses related to cognition, cognitive development, psychology, neuroscience, or related fields while also conducting their research.
Research Scientist: PhD graduates can work as research scientists in various research institutions, such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private research firms. They may focus on basic or applied research in areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, neuroscience, or human-computer interaction.
Industry Researcher: Companies in industries such as technology, healthcare, gaming, or consumer behavior often hire PhDs in cognition to conduct research related to human behavior, decision-making, user experience, and product design. They may work in research and development departments, user experience labs, or innovation teams.
Consultant: Some PhD graduates work as consultants, providing expertise on cognitive processes, learning theories, human factors, and decision-making to businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, or non-profit organizations. They may offer services such as program evaluation, training development, or organizational development.
Government/Public Policy Analyst: Individuals with a PhD in cognition may work for government agencies or non-profit organizations, conducting research on issues related to cognitive development, education, public health, or social policy. They may analyze data, evaluate programs, or develop policies to address cognitive challenges in society.
Clinical Psychologist/Therapist: While less common, some PhD graduates pursue careers as clinical psychologists or therapists specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy or other evidence-based approaches to treat cognitive disorders, learning disabilities, or mental health issues.
Educational/Instructional Designer: PhD graduates with expertise in cognition and learning may work as instructional designers, developing educational materials, curriculum, or digital learning platforms that optimize learning outcomes based on cognitive principles.
Neuroscientist: For those with a strong interest in the neural mechanisms underlying cognition, pursuing a career as a neuroscientist can be an option. This might involve conducting research on brain function, neural networks, or neurodevelopmental disorders in academic or industry settings.
Science Writer/Communicator: Some PhD graduates choose to work as science writers, journalists, or communicators, translating complex research findings in cognition and cognitive development for broader audiences through articles, books, blogs, or media platforms.
Entrepreneur: Individuals with entrepreneurial ambitions may start their own companies or ventures focused on products or services related to cognition, such as brain-training apps, educational games, or assistive technologies for individuals with cognitive impairments.
Some of the career opportunities for graduates with a PhD in Cognition/Cognitive Development include:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
University of California, Berkeley |
Stanford University |
Harvard University |
University of Pennsylvania |
Carnegie Mellon University |
University of Michigan |
Yale University |
Princeton University |
Duke University |
Q.1 - What is the procedure for PhD Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in the form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - What will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.