Quantitative psychology is the field of study that involves statistical analysis and modeling of human behavior and attitudes. Graduate programs in this field are often focused on mathematics and statistical processes.
Programs in Quantitative Psychology
Quantitative psychology is typically a doctorate degree awarding field that emphasizes the use of statistics and mathematical models. Because the program is so heavily oriented toward the math field, you will find that you will be studying advanced math concepts alongside psychological ones. Here are a few examples of the courses you can expect to take.
Modeling
Math models are often developed to help researchers better understand phenomena. Models such as linear and equation modeling help researchers better understand relationships between variables. Students are taught these models and expected to be able to identify causality, develop linear equation models, and look for causal relations between variables.
Quantitative Coursework
Of course, as a quantitative branch of psychology, a degree in quantitative psychology typically requires coursework in quantitative courses. These courses are designed to help students better understand how quantitative processes are applied to various branches of psychology. This coursework also includes a range of discussions in areas such as neural networks, behavioral ecology, and theories of measurement.
Cognitive Coursework
Both within a classroom and as a part of their lab work, students are often given the chance to study the quantification of human cognition. This includes using various psychometric tests of both cognition and intelligence. Students work with various psychological models and theory while conducting empirical research that is focused on participant responses. Students are expected to come to better understand how to gauge a participant's mathematical reasoning, verbal comprehension, and other metrics of human cognition.
Statistics
Students will typically need to learn more about statistics and multivariate statistical analysis. Consistent with the title, quantitative psychology must quantify what it is measuring. This requires the application of different statistical analysis and using correlation analysis to find relationships between variables. Students are also expected to learn how to use statistical coursework during the course of this class.
Neuroscience
Neuroscience is the study of what happens in the human central nervous system. Often, studies are first done using animal models to create a general example of what may occur in the neurological system. Neuorscience research investigates each part of the human neural process, ranging from cognitive to motor processes.
Admission Requirements
Although different universities may have different requirements, there are a few common requirements for admission. Students are typically asked to write out a statement of purpose about why they believe they should be accepted into the program. Students will also be commonly asked to submit their GRE scores. Universities don't typically list a minimum GRE score you must have, although they may list the average GRE scores of applicants. You'll also be required to submit three letters of recommendation in most cases. Finally, you will need to submit your transcripts and you will often need to have maintained a GPA of between 3.0 and 4.0 during your bachelor's program.
Getting a graduate degree in quantitative psychology requires a course load that leans heavily toward statistics and advanced understanding of how human psychology is modeled. However, courses vary slightly from one university to another, so consult with the school you are interested in to learn more about their specific course offerings.
