PhD Evolutionary Psychology and Relationship Science

PhD Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 65% as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 or 7.0 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.0.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 92 on the TOEFL is accepted, with no sub-score in any section falling below 20.
• PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.

Students must provide:

• Academic marksheets & transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement - SOP
• Passport
• Other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Abertay University offers several types of scholarships for international Ph.D. students, each with its own criteria and benefits. 

Merit-Based Scholarships: Awards based on academic excellence, research potential, and achievements. Merit-based scholarships aim to attract high-achieving students to contribute to the university's research community.

Research-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are dedicated to students undertaking research in specific fields. These may align with the university's strategic research priorities or emerging academic disciplines.

Partnership Scholarships: Collaborative initiatives between Abertay University and external partners may result in specific scholarships. These aim to strengthen ties with organizations, industries, or governments.

Graduates of Abertay University's PhD in Evolutionary Psychology and Relationship Science program possess a unique blend of expertise in understanding human behavior from an evolutionary perspective and the intricacies of interpersonal relationships. This interdisciplinary knowledge prepares them for diverse and impactful career opportunities in academia, research, counseling, and various industries.

Research Scientist in Evolutionary Psychology: PhD holders can pursue careers as research scientists specializing in evolutionary psychology. They contribute to academic institutions or research organizations, conducting groundbreaking research on evolutionary principles shaping human behavior, mate selection, and social dynamics.

Relationship Counselor or Therapist: Graduates may choose to become relationship counselors or therapists, applying their knowledge to support individuals and couples in navigating relationship challenges. They provide guidance based on evolutionary insights into human behavior and relationship dynamics.

Academic Researcher in Relationship Science: With a focus on relationship science, graduates can pursue academic careers as researchers. They contribute to the scholarly understanding of interpersonal relationships, publishing research findings, and advancing theories related to relationship dynamics.

Couples and Family Therapist: PhD holders can specialize as couples and family therapists, addressing relationship issues within family units. They apply evolutionary psychology principles to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen familial bonds.

Sexuality Educator or Consultant: Those interested in human sexuality can work as sexuality educators or consultants. They contribute to sexual health education programs, provide insights into evolutionary aspects of human sexuality, and support individuals in navigating intimate relationships.

Psychological Consultant for Matchmaking Services: Graduates may explore careers as psychological consultants for matchmaking services. They offer expertise in mate selection, compatibility assessments, and relationship dynamics to enhance the effectiveness of matchmaking algorithms and services.

Marriage and Family Researcher: PhD holders can engage in research focused on marriage and family dynamics. They contribute to understanding the evolutionary foundations of long-term relationships, parenting strategies, and the impact of familial relationships on individual well-being.

Academic Educator in Evolutionary Psychology: Graduates can become educators, teaching evolutionary psychology at academic institutions. They share their expertise with students, fostering an understanding of how evolutionary principles influence human behavior and relationships.

Life Coach with Evolutionary Insights: Those with a passion for personal development can work as life coaches, integrating evolutionary insights into their coaching methodologies. They guide individuals in personal growth, self-discovery, and achieving relationship goals.

Public Speaker on Evolutionary Psychology: PhD holders can become public speakers, sharing their knowledge on evolutionary psychology and relationship science. They may participate in conferences, workshops, and public events, disseminating insights to diverse audiences.

Author or Blogger on Relationships: Graduates may choose to become authors or bloggers, writing about relationships from an evolutionary perspective. They contribute to literature, providing valuable insights on dating, love, and relationship dynamics.

Corporate Wellness Consultant: PhD holders can work as corporate wellness consultants, integrating their understanding of interpersonal relationships into workplace wellness programs. They address team dynamics, communication strategies, and employee well-being.

Policy Advisor on Relationship Education: Those interested in influencing policies can become advisors on relationship education. They engage with government bodies, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations to advocate for policies that support relationship education based on evolutionary principles.