We offer an M.A. and a Ph.D. in experimental psychology.
Our program uses an apprenticeship model in which students learn to conduct original research by collaborating closely with their advisor. A close match between the research interests of the student and their desired advisor is therefore a critical factor in our admission decisions.
Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2027
We will begin reviewing applications on December 1, 2026. In the application portal, select Experimental Psychology.
Curriculum
Students typically complete the M.A. in two to three years. The 36-credit program combines coursework with hands-on research under the guidance of a faculty advisor:
- First-year project: an original research project completed with your advisor during the first year
- Core course: one of Cognitive Psychology, Social Psychology, or Engineering Psychology
- Content courses: two additional graduate courses in areas such as learning, memory, perception, history & systems of psychology, or seminars in social psychology
- Quantitative methods: a three-course sequence in statistics and computer methodology
- Master's thesis: an independent research thesis, usually completed in the second year
Students who earn the M.A. at NMSU may continue to the Ph.D. without formally reapplying. Full details are available on the M.A. degree requirements and Ph.D. degree requirements pages.
Graduate Assistantships and Tuition
All admitted students are automatically considered for a graduate assistantship (GA). Most assistantships in our department are teaching assistantships, in which students help instructors lead class or discussion sections, assist with labs, grade student work, and proctor exams. Assistantships of up to 20 hours per week (0.50 FTE) may be awarded for each fall and spring semester.
A graduate assistantship includes:
- A stipend: paid every two weeks during the academic year
- Tuition coverage: graduate assistants appointed at 0.25 FTE (10 hours per week) or more receive tuition coverage for up to nine credit hours in each fall and spring semester, a full-time graduate course load
- Professional experience: working closely with faculty, which often leads to research collaborations, strong letters of recommendation, and additional teaching opportunities
For more details, see Graduate Assistantships.
How to Apply
We will begin reviewing applications for Fall 2027 admission on December 1, 2026, and will continue to review applications on a rolling basis after that date. We encourage applicants to apply by December 1 for full consideration.
Apply through the NMSU Graduate School application portal (link to external page). New applicants should create an account as a First-time User, then select Experimental Psychology as their program. Students with a bachelor's degree should apply to the M.A. program, even if their ultimate goal is a Ph.D. Your first NMSU graduate application is free.
Required Application Materials
All materials are submitted through the application portal. The GRE is not required.
- A completed Graduate School application
- Electronic copies of transcripts of all college coursework (minimum 3.0 GPA)
- Three letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or others who can evaluate your potential for graduate work. You will enter your recommenders' contact information in the portal.
- A personal statement describing your research interests and experience, your career goals, and the faculty members whose work particularly interests you
- A curriculum vitae or résumé
- A writing sample, such as a course paper or senior thesis, that shows your ability to write clearly about psychological research
We recommend uploading all materials before you submit your application. Missing documents will delay review of your application. You can add documents later under "Upload Materials" in the portal.
International applicants must also provide certified English translations of any transcripts not in English. See the Graduate School's information for international students and contact International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) for additional requirements.
Questions about the application portal can be directed to the Graduate School at gradadmissions@nmsu.edu.
