The International PhD in “Applied Psychology: Adaptation and change in contemporary societies" is an advanced research programme taught entirely in English and jointly awarded by three leading European universities:
Designed for researchers interested in understanding and addressing the psychological challenges of contemporary societies, this PhD follows a lifespan developmental perspective and focuses on mental health, wellbeing and adaptation in rapidly changing social contexts.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) - 180 ECTS Language: English
Programme Goals
Provide a robust international research environment, supported by highly qualified research teams from the three partner universities. Offer state-of-the-art conceptual and methodological training in relevant areas of applied psychology. Support the development of high‑quality, innovative research projects with international impact. Promote doctoral mobility and active participation in global research networks. Increase the international dissemination of research produced within the programme.
Structure
Main components:
Doctoral Thesis (160 ECTS) Advanced Research Methods I (15 ECTS) Advanced Research Methods II (5 ECTS)
During the first semester, students develop and submit their thesis proposal, which guides their research throughout the programme.
Rosário Serrão “This International PhD in Applied Psychology gave me the possibility to work with different supervisors, each bringing different knowledge, contributing to expanding my research skills and learning to develop research in an international environment.”
A key feature of the programme is a mandatory 2-semester international research internship:
Students enrolled through UCP or Ramon Llull: complete 2 semesters at Nottingham Trent University. Students enrolled through Nottingham Trent University: complete 2 semesters at UCP and/or Ramon Llull.
An additional mobility period (1 to 6 months) may be taken depending on the needs of the research project.
Human Relationships throughout the life cycle: Couple, family and groups Mental Health and Psychopathology: challenges of a changing and global society Exclusion: social (In)justice, conflict and psychological well-being Adaptive and maladaptive behaviours related to digital technologies
Find out more about the research areasand research teams
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the International PhD in Applied Psychology?
An advanced international research programme taught in English and jointly awarded by three leading European universities.
How long does the programme last?
It is a 3‑year doctoral programme comprising 180 ECTS.
Is international mobility mandatory?
Yes. All students complete a 2-semester international research internship, with an optional additional period.
Which research areas are available?
Human relationships, mental health and psychopathology, social exclusion, and digital behaviour.
Contacts
Coordination of International PhD in Applied Psychology
Universidade Católica Portuguesa (Portugal)
