|Evolutionary psychology is a branch of psychology that attempts to use biological approaches to study, analysis and explain human behavior. Evolutionary psychologists, as well as cognitive psychologists, suggest that human behavior can be explained by internal (biological) psychological mechanisms. However, evolutionary and cognitive psychologists differ in that some cognitive psychologist do not support the proposal that relevant internal mechanisms are products of natural selection, which allowed our ancestors to adapt, survive and reproduce. To fully appreciate and understand the central tenants of evolutionary psychology, it is necessary to understand the key concepts in cognitive psychology, evolutionary biology, philosophy of mind and philosophy of science.|
Most careers in evolutionary psychology are research oriented, although more and more evolutionary psychologists can be found working in more traditional psychology roles. Many evolutionary psychologists are apply their unique approach to psychology in the treatment of mental health disorders, such as depression. Many colleges and universities today now have evolutionary psychology departments. There is growing opportunity for qualified evolutionary psychologists to teach at these colleges and universities. And again, there are a variety of research oriented careers for evolutionary psychologists in education, goverment and the private sector.
Students interested in a career in evolutionary psychology should consider undergraduate majors in psychology, biology or anthropology, as each of disciplines addresses key aspects and central tenants of evolutionary psychology. Once a bachelor's degree has been obtained students will then need to apply to a relevant graduate program that offers an evolutionary psychology track. As evolutionary psychology is a research based field, candidates for graduate programs in this discipline must be prepared academically and demonstrate interest in a research oriented career. Most graduate candidates for evolutionary psychology programs have prior research experience, a relevant educational background, and have passed the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Students who have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited program can pursue a master's degree, which takes about two years to complete, or a Ph.D., which usually takes five years to complete. Be aware that evoluationary psychology, as field of study, is treated differently by the various colleges and universities offering relevant degree programs. Some schools offer specific degrees in evolutionary psychology, while others treat evolutionary psychology as way of approaching the study and application of psychology, and only confer degrees in areas such as development, social or cognitive psychology.
|University of Arizona |
|Northwestern University |
|Cornell University |
|University of South Carolina-Beaufort |
|The University of Texas at Austin |