Psychology
Master of Arts (MA)-PhD Track, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Graduate Program Overview
| Program | Components | Expected Duration |
| MA-PhD Track* | Coursework and thesis | 24 months |
| PhD – Clinical Psychology (CPA Accredited Program) |
Coursework, dissertation and internship | 60 months |
| PhD – Psychological Science | Dissertation | 48 months |
* Admission to the MA clinical psychology graduate program and the MA psychological science graduate program is restricted to those who intend to continue on to the PhD.
The psychology graduate program at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus offers tier-one research-based degrees to students in a collegial, close-knit setting. Our high-calibre graduate students dedicate their lives to bettering the lives of others through research and clinical work.
The Department of Psychology offers graduate education leading to PhD specializations in clinical psychology and psychological science. The MA (PhD Track) is a prerequisite for students with an undergraduate degree who do not have an MA clinical psychology or MA psychological science degree.
Our psychology degrees provide students with theoretical, practical, and analytical expertise, as well as experience in the application of scientific results to real-world problems. Our dynamic faculty and graduate students are engaged in a variety of research projects, many in collaboration with partners in government, non-profit agencies, or industry.
Our developmental learning model promotes research and clinical competence through close mentoring relationships with faculty, who instill in students a passion for lifelong learning that applies to their chosen career paths.
Explore more about our clinical psychology program, which is accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA). The CPA requires disclosure of information on the applicant pool, acceptance rates, diversity, graduates, and other details about our program. This information can be found here.
Students enrolled in the MA (PhD Track) program will learn to apply skills and methods in the science and practice of psychology, as well as undertake practical and/or clinical research in the field.
Formal milestones for the MA program include:
- preparing, presenting, and defending a research proposal
- collecting and analyzing data
- writing and defending the thesis
- ideally, publishing the research results
MA students also become paid Teaching Assistants during their studies in order to gain valuable teaching experience and to learn effective communication strategies.
Clinical Psychology
Our clinical psychology graduate program is based on the scientist-practitioner model of clinical psychology, with an emphasis on evidence-based assessment and therapeutic techniques. Our developmental learning model promotes clinical and research competence through close mentoring relationships with faculty.
The program is designed for students with a background in psychology or related behavioural/health sciences. Upon completion of the program, students will have obtained broad training in the science of psychology, incorporating the biopsychosocial model, as well as knowledge and skills in clinical psychology and the ability to integrate science and practice. It prepares graduates for careers in research, teaching, and clinical practice.
The Clinical Psychology MA program requires completion of a minimum of 42 credits including:
- six credits of graduate-level statistics and methodology
- six credits from each of: Individual Differences, Assessment, and Intervention
- three credits in Ethics and Professional Standards
- three credits of an approved clinical practicum
- successful defence of MA thesis (twelve credits)
Additional coursework may be required at the discretion of the supervisory committee. Find out more about clinical psychology’s practicum placements.
For more information, please see our Clinical Psychology Handbook.
Psychological Science
Our psychological science graduate program allows students to conduct research alongside world-renowned experts in areas such as abnormal, cognitive, health, social, and personality psychology. Topics range from neurocognitive functioning and social relationships to happiness and well-being. Students will conduct scientific research through close mentoring relationships with faculty.
The program is designed for students with a background in psychology or a closely related field who wish to conduct original psychological research under the mentorship of one of our faculty. Upon completion of the program, students will have received training in advanced statistics and research methods and will be proficient in evaluating and carrying out psychological research. The program prepares students for careers in academia, teaching, and research.
This MA specialization requires minimum completion of 30 credits, which includes:
- 12 credits of thesis work
- 18 credits of coursework
Additional coursework may be required at the discretion of the supervisory committee. Exceptional MA students may be able to transfer to the PhD program after one year if they meet program requirements and are approved by the Psychology Graduate Studies Committee.
For more information, please see our Psychological Science Handbook.
The PhD is an advanced research degree program that requires original and substantive contributions to the advancement of the field of psychology.
Graduates of the psychological science PhD program will be prepared for careers that involve conducting independent research, consulting, and/or teaching in academia, government, or industry. Clinical psychology PhD graduates will be similarly prepared, and will be eligible to apply for registration as psychologists.
Formal milestones for the Psychological Science and Clinical Psychology PhD programs include:
- passing comprehensives
- preparing, presenting, and defending a research proposal
- undertaking advanced data collection and applying sophisticated analytical methods
- completing and defending a dissertation
- communicating research results via conference presentations and publications in scientific journals
- Clinical PhD students – completing advanced clinical practica and a program-approved internship
PhD students also become paid teaching assistants during their studies in order to gain valuable teaching experience and to enhance their communication skills.
Clinical Psychology
Minimum PhD program requirements include:
- six credits of graduate-level statistics and methodology
- three credits from each of the cognate areas in psychology (biological, cognitive-affective, and social)
- six credits from each of: Individual Differences, Assessment, and Intervention
- three credits in the historical and scientific foundations of general psychology
- three credits in each of: Ethics and Professional Standards, and Program Evaluation
- one credit in Clinical Supervision
- successful completion of the applicable Comprehensive Examination requirements
- up to 900 hours of clinical psychology practica as needed to reach competency and progress to the next level of training
- successful defence of the doctoral dissertation (PSYO 699)
- development of an acceptable level of clinical skill
- successful completion of a one-year full-time internship in a CPA or APA accredited program.*
(Note: Coursework that was completed for a Master’s degree may be applied towards the PhD coursework requirements.)
Find out more about clinical psychology’s practicum placements.
* It should also be noted that while the above criteria satisfy the minimum requirements, additional courses will routinely be offered that are aimed at further enhancing the breadth of knowledge in one of the above required areas, or that provide instruction in an area that is not reflected in one of the above categories. Additional coursework may be required by a student’s supervisory committee and/or the DCT.
Psychological Science
Minimum PhD program requirements include:
- completion of up to 18 credits of coursework, selected with the approval of the student’s PhD committee
- successful completion of comprehensives
- successful defence of the doctoral dissertation (PSYO 699)
Additional coursework may be required by a student’s supervisory committee.
Research & Supervisors
The professional and research interests of the psychology faculty span a broad range, and their research expertise includes both quantitative and qualitative strategies of analyses.
Graduate students can pursue these and other faculty research and teaching interests:
- Psychopathology
- Cannabis & psychedelic psychotherapy
- Cognitive psychology
- Computer-mediated communication
- Creativity
- Deception
- Forensic psychology
- Health psychology
- Laterality / brain hemisphere interactions
- Neuropsychology
- Positive psychology / happiness and well-being
- Social and personality psychology
- Statistics and research methods
- Rural mental health
Psychology Clinic
Our in-house Psychology Clinic offers a free-of-charge public service for those in need within the Okanagan community. It provides assessment, treatment, case management, and support for those with moderate to severe mental, behavioural and emotional concerns. Clinic staff come from the department of psychology, in cooperation with the School of Social Work.
Our other research centres and facilities include the following, and associated psychology faculty can be found in the Supervisors section above:
- The Centre for Obesity and Well-being Research Excellence (The CORE)
- The Centre of the Study of Services to Children and Families
- Cognition and Substance Use Lab
- Health Psychology Lab
- The Human Sexuality Lab
- The Neuroplasticity, Imagery, and Motor Behaviour Lab
- The Psychopathology Lifespan and Neuropsychology (PLAN) Laboratory
- The Social, Emotional, and Equity Development Lab (SEED Lab)
- Social Interaction and Perception Lab
- Therapeutic, Recreational, and Problematic Substance Use Lab
- Truth and Trust Lab
The success of our graduate program depends in large part on a good mentor match between students and research supervisors.
Please connect with one to three potential faculty supervisors before you start the application process. No applicant will be considered for admission to the program until a faculty member of the psychology department has agreed to supervise the student’s proposed research.
We look forward to hearing about your research interests and career goals.
Search Keyword:
Jan Cioe | Associate Professor | Psychology | jan.cioe@ubc.ca | Office: 250.807.8732; Home: 250-763-1225 | ART 320
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Human sexuality; forensics; student-driven research program based on Directed Studies and Honours work
Paul G Davies | Professor | Psychology | paul.g.davies@ubc.ca | FIP 326
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Intergroup relations; stereotypes; prejudice; discrimination; diverse forms of social identity threat; perceived stereotypicality; levels of prejudice and discrimination that target stigmatized individuals.
Kalee De France, PhD | Assistant Professor | Faculty of Management, Psychology | kalee.defrance@ubc.ca | 250.807.9203 | EME4115
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Emotion and emotion regulation; child development; adolescence; inequality; adversity; poverty;
Liane (Lee) Gabora | Professor | Psychology | liane.gabora@ubc.ca | 250.807.9849 | FIP 235
Graduate student supervisor. Will consider Psychology grad students (Psychological Science stream) for Sept 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Creativity; concepts, especially how they combine and adapt to new contexts; origins of modern cognition; cultural evolution; computer models of the above. I'm not currently accepting graduate students; however, please don't hesitate to contact me if you are exceptionally knowledgeable about and interested in my group's research program.
Susan Holtzman | Associate Professor | Psychology | susan.holtzman@ubc.ca | 250.807.8730 | ASC 283
Graduate student supervisor. Considering grad students(Clinical Psychology & Psychological Science streams)for Sept '25
Research Interests: Health psychology; social relationships; stress and coping; adjustment to chronic illness/chronic pain; psychology of technology; digital communication and wellbeing.
Lauren Human | Associate Professor | Psychology | lauren.human@ubc.ca | ART 317
Graduate student supervisor. Considering grad students(Clinical Psychology & Psychological Science streams)for Sept '25
Research Interests: Interpersonal impressions; accuracy and bias; well-being; social relationships.
Sarah Kraeutner | Assistant Professor | Psychology | sarah.kraeutner@ubc.ca | ASC 204
Graduate student supervisor. Will consider Psychology grad students (Psychological Science stream) for Sept 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Motor learning; motor imagery; stroke-related neuroscience; neuroimaging; non-invasive brain stimulation
Marvin Krank | Professor Emeritus | Psychology | marvin.krank@ubc.ca
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2024 intake.
Research Interests: Development of substance abuse in adolescence; vulnerabilities related to social learning; cognitive models that differentiate implicit (unconscious) from explicit memories; relative role of automatic associations versus executive control; social experiences, dispositions, memories, and thoughts that predict transitions to substance use and to substance abuse.
Maya Libben, PhD | Associate Professor | Psychology | maya.libben@ubc.ca | 250.807.9026 | ASC 284
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Clinical cognitive neuroscience; stroke; body image; hemispatial neglect; traumatic brain injury; neuropsychological assessment; cognitive bias; eating disorders; bilingualism; eye-tracking.
Jessica Lougheed | Assistant Professor | Psychology | jessica.lougheed@ubc.ca | 250.807.8045 | ART 332
Graduate student supervisor. Considering grad students(Clinical Psychology & Psychological Science streams)for Sept '25
Research Interests: Adolescent emotional development; parent-adolescent relationships; interpersonal emotion dynamics; internalizing symptoms; externalizing symptoms.
Lesley Lutes | Professor | Psychology | llutes@mail.ubc.ca | ASC 203
Graduate student supervisor. Will consider students for September 2025 intake, for the Clinical Psychology stream.
Research Interests: Clinical Health Psychology; innovative cognitive and behavioural change programs aimed at improving physical and emotional well-being and happiness; Integrated primary care; Weight management
Harry Miller | Lecturer | Psychology | harry.miller@ubc.ca
Graduate student supervisor. Will consider co-supervision only, Clinical Psychology grad students for Sept 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Assessment of memory with traumatic brain injury; peripheral vascular disease and cognition; emotional function post stroke; effects of alcohol use on recovery from brain injury.
Elena Nicoladis | Department Head, Professor | Psychology | elena.nicoladis@ubc.ca | 250.807.8461 | ART 322
Graduate student supervisor. Considering grad students(Clinical Psychology & Psychological Science streams)for Sept '25
Research Interests: Bilingual first language learning; second language learning; gestures
Brian O'Connor | Professor | Psychology | brian.oconnor@ubc.ca | 250.807.9636 | ART 330
Graduate student supervisor. Will consider Psychology grad students (Psychological Science stream) for Sept 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Statistics; personality; psychopathology; interpersonal behaviour; especially psychometrics, factor analysis, item response theory, Bayesian methods, dimensional models of personality and psychopathology, and software for statistical procedures.
Jamie Piercy | Associate Professor of Teaching | Psychology | jamie.piercy@ubc.ca | 250.807.8514 | ASC 285
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Lifespan neuropsychology; prematurity; hemispatial neglect; stroke; psychosocial impacts of adverse experiences including grief, loss, and substance use among children, youth, and families.
Carolyn Szostak | Associate Professor | Psychology | carolyn.szostak@ubc.ca | 250.807.8736 | ART 324
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Rural mental health; barriers to accessing mental health services by adults 50 years and older in rural communities; media and mental health-related stigma; role of media in combating stigmatizing attitudes about mental health disorders and suicide.
Leanne ten Brinke | Associate Professor | Psychology | leanne.tenbrinke@ubc.ca | 250.807.8174 | ART 318
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Deception; lie detection; nonverbal behaviour; psychopathy; power and influence; leadership
Zach Walsh | Professor | Psychology | zachary.walsh@ubc.ca | 250.807.9373 | ASC 206
Graduate student supervisor. Will consider Psychology grad students (Clinical Psychology stream) for Sept 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Cannabis use - medical and non-medical; substance use; hallucinogens; harm reduction; personality disorder; partner violence; aggression; third-stream/mindfulness behavior therapies; drug policy.
Derrick Wirtz | Associate Professor of Teaching | Psychology | derrick.wirtz@ubc.ca | 250.807.8276 | ART 328
Graduate student supervisor. Not considering Psychology graduate students for September 2025 intake.
Research Interests: Subjective well-being; happiness; the “good life”; cross-cultural differences in emotion; flourishing & thriving; positive emotions; interventions to increase well-being.
Michael Woodworth | Professor | Psychology | michael.woodworth@ubc.ca | 250.807.8731 | ASC 205
Graduate student supervisor. Considering grad students(Clinical Psychology & Psychological Science streams)for Sept '25
Research Interests: Psychopathy; violent offending; deception detection; computer-mediated communication; assessment and treatment of forensic populations; memory and psychiatric issues primarily within a legal context.
Students & Theses
Meet Our Students
See what our students and alumni are up to— research interests, supervisors, alma maters, and contact information are in the below psychology graduate student and alumni profiles.
Iana Bashmakova
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: iana.bashmakova@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Creativity; metaphor production; cognitive control; cognitive flexibility; consciousness; fundamental problems in psychology.
DEGREES
MA Psychology, Saint Petersburg State University
BA Psychology, Saint Petersburg State University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Cassidy Biener (Wallis), She, Her, Hers
PHD STUDENT, Psychological Science
Email: wallisca@mail.ubc.ca
Office: ART 360
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Childhood Maltreatment and disclosure; intimate partner violence, technology-assisted harmful sexual behaviour; homicide and violence.
DEGREES
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours MacEwan University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Cameo Brown
MA STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Email: cameo.brown@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Deception, Nonverbal Behaviors, Law, Crime, and Justice
DEGREES
BA Psychology and Communication Studies, Loyola Marymount University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Chloe Briggs
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: cbrigg01@mail.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Mindfulness and self-compassion; social media and well-being; subjective and psychological well-being.
Alisha Davis
MA STUDENT, Psychology – Psychological Sciences
Email: davis07@student.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Neuropsychology; Brain injury recovery and rehabilitation; Transcranial magnetic stimulation to assess brain function; Learning through non-physical modalities
Website
Degrees
BSc Microbiology and Psychology, UBC Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Zak Draper
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Office: ART 280H
Email: zakary.draper@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Quantitative methods and statistics; technology and wellbeing in families with young children.
WEBSITES
Zakary Draper’s Website
Family Screen Time
DEGREES
BSc Honours University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Kirthana Ganesh
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: kirthana.ganesh@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Creativity, cross-cultural research, the process of psychotherapy, and integration of Indian philosophy into psychology.
Rebecca Godard, She, Her, Hers
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: rebecca.godard@ubc.ca
Office: ART 367
Website: rebeccagodard.com
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Technology and social relationships; social support; social media; texting; online support groups; quantitative methods.
DEGREES
MA UBC Okanagan
BA (Hons) Rice University
THESIS TITLE
A meta-analysis and intensive longitudinal investigation into the relationships between active and passive social media use and social and emotional wellbeing
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Marcus Gottlieb, He, Him, His
PHD STUDENT, clinical PSYCHOLOGY
Email: mgott15@mail.ubc.ca
Office: ASC 2017
Twitter: @marcusdgottlieb
Website: emotion-dynamics-lab.psych.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Fatherhood; family dynamics; childhood bereavement; adolescence; child development
DEGREES
BA (Hons) Western University
MA Western University
THESIS TITLE
Fatherly Perceptions of Parenting Adolescence
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Nina Gregoire
PHD STUDENT, Psychology
Email: Nina44@student.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
My research focuses on applied health psychology, investigating perceptions, and analyzing policy implications health issues. I aim to examine the interplay between individual and societal beliefs, contributing insights for informed health policies that enhance overall well-being.
Website
DEGREES
BSc (Hons), MA, LLB (Candidate)
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Amané Halicki-Asakawa, She, Her, Hers
MA STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: amaneha@mail.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Eating disorder treatment; motivation; equity and inclusion in mental health treatment; technology-assisted interventions; emotion dysregulation; psychophysiology.
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Nataasha Khattar
PHD STUDENT, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Office: ASC 201
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Cultural Humility and Cultural Competence; Item Response Theory; Psychometrics; Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Mental Health Services
DEGREES
BSc. Psychology (hons) – Christ University, India
M.A. Clincal Psychology – University of British Columbia, Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Ethan Klukas, He, Him, His
MA STUDENT, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Email: eklukas@student.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Therapeutic use of psychedelics; psilocybin, microdosing
Website
LinkedIn
Zach Walsh Research Lab
DEGREES
B.A. (Hons.) – UBC Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Lisa Masini
PHD STUDENT, Psychological Science
Email: lmasini@mail.ubc.ca
Office: ART 366
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Psychophysiology; qualia; ecological momentary assessment.
DEGREES
BA Honors University of British Columbia
MA University of British Columbia
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES/AFFILIATIONS/COMMITTEES
Okanagan Behavioral Research Ethics Board (BREB) – Student Representative
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Bahare Mazinani, She, Her, Hers
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: bahare.mazinani@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Personality; Psychopathy; Emotion Dynamics; Partner Violence; Romantic Relationships; Subjective and Psychological Well-being of women, Toxic Relationships.
Website
DEGREES
MA in Clinical Psychology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences
BA in Psychology and Education of Children with Exceptional Needs, University of Tehran
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Kaylee Misener
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: kaylee.misener@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Body image; prevention; self-compassion; mindfulness; eating disorders; cognitive biases; cross-cultural research; and stigma.
DEGREES
BA Honours University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Carley Paterson
PHD STUDENT, clinical PSYCHOLOGY
Email: carley.paterson@ubc.ca
Office: ASC 281
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Rural mental health; older adult mental health; access to mental health services; social support; mental health stigma; mental health literacy.
DEGREES
MA Clinical Psychology, University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA (Hons) Psychology, University of Calgary
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Maya Pilin
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: maya.pilin@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Affective forecasting; cannabis use in young adults; adult development; history of psychology
DEGREES
Hons. B.A. University of Ottawa
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Katherine Rose
PHD STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: katherine.rose@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Criminal behaviour; youth sexual violence; personality; trauma; childhood maltreatment; deception; computer-mediated communication; internet crime.
DEGREES
BA Honours Memorial University
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Tatiana Alejandra Sanchez, She, Her, Hers
PHD STUDENT, clinical PSYCHOLOGY
Email: tatisanz@student.ubc.ca
Office: ASC 207
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Culturally-responsive treatment and research; mental health equity; therapeutic, recreational, and problematic substance use; psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy; social norms of cannabis use.
DEGREES
BSc Honours McGill University
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
Jason Scott, He, Him, His
MA STUDENT, clinical PSYCHOLOGY
Email: Jlscot1@mail.ubc.ca
Office: ASC 281
Website: libbenlab.com/jason-scott
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Hemispatial Neglect; Psychological Flexbility in TBI; Acquired Brain Injury and functional outcome; Stroke Assessment Methods; Eye-Tracking.
DEGREES
BA (Hons)
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
THESIS TITLE
A Multilevel Meta-Analysis of Hemispatial Neglect Assessment Measures
Jayme Stewart, She, Her, Hers
PhD STUDENT, Clinical PSYCHOLOGY
Email: jstewar@student.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Psychopathy; violence; violence reduction and management; victimization; vulnerability; nonverbal behaviours; supporting survivors of violence.
DEGREES
BA (Hons.) Psychology, MacEwan University
MA Experimental Psychology, Carleton University
MA Clinical Psychology, University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Jacqueline Tams, She, Her, Hers
MA STUDENT, clinical PSYCHOLOGY
Email: jtams@student.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Child welfare system; childhood bereavement; equity in mental health systems; poverty; risk
DEGREES
Bachelor of Arts in Honours Psychology
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Jamie Piercy and Dr. Kalee De France
Anne Tseu, She, Her, Hers
PHD STUDENT, clinical PSYCHOLOGY
Email: anne.tseu@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Cross-cultural and well-being research – biculturalism, immigrant experiences, acculturation, and how they impact factors of well-being and happiness
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Sage Wiebe, She, Her, Hers
MA STUDENT, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: sagelynn@student.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Chronic illness; computer-mediated communication and support; social media and well-being; rural access to mental health services; psychology of music.
DEGREES
BA Honours University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Anna Myfanwy Bakker
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: myfanwy.bakker@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Self-compassion, mindfulness-based interventions, emotion regulation, post-traumatic stress and trauma-related psychopathology (e.g., PTSD), depression, health psychology, intervention research and evaluation.
DEGREES
BA McGill University
Stefanie Ciszewski
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: sciszews@mail.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Obesity; obesity intervention and prevention; behavioural treatment; predictors of treatment success; targeted treatment/treatment matching for obesity.
DEGREES
BA Honours University of Ottawa
MA University of New Brunswick
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Maxine Crawford
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: maxine.crawford@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Nature; aesthetics; urban planning; well-being; life satisfaction; individual differences.
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours Thompson River University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Jacqueline Kanippayoor
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: jacqueline.kanippayoor@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Cross-cultural differences in psychopathy; psychopathy; dark triad; criminal behaviour and recidivism; deception detection.
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours Wilfrid Laurier University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Jennifer Langille
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: jennifer.langille@alumni.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Greenberg’s emotion focused therapy; motivational interviewing; programs for offenders; therapeutic approaches for PTSD.
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of Regina
BA Honours Kwantlen Polytechnic University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Damien Leitner
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: damien.leitner@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Predictors of functional outcome in stroke populations; neuropsychological testing; return home and community reintegration.
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BSc Honours University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Diana Lisi
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: diana.lisi@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Health psychology; relationships; emotion regulation; mood; pain/distress.
WEBSITES
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours York University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Holli-Anne Passmore
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: holli-anne.passmore@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Nature connectedness/exposure to the natural environment; various indices of well-being; positive psychology interventions to promote well-being in adults and children.
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Grant MacEwan University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Jill Robinson
MA, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: robinjil@mail.ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Substance (alcohol and cannabis) use and abuse in child, teen and young adult populations; substance prevention programs in those who are at risk of developing substance use problems.
DEGREES
BA Honours University of Regina
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Michelle St. Pierre
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: michelle.stpierre@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Therapeutic and recreational use of cannabis and psychedelics; substance use; partner violence.
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours University of British Columbia
Kara Turcotte
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: kara.turcotte@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Developmental trajectory of pain response and pain perception over the lifetime; psychosocial aspects of pain experience and pain perception; emotional regulation; attachment relationships; behavioural coding.
WEBSITES
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours York University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Megan Udala
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: megan.udala@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Clinical psychology; infanticide.
DEGREES
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours University of British Columbia Okanagan
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Carmela White
PHD, PSYCHOLOGY
Email: carmela.white@ubc.ca
RESEARCH SUMMARY
Positive psychology interventions; well-being; health psychology; prevention and early intervention; predictors of treatment success.
DEGREES
PhD University of British Columbia Okanagan
MA University of British Columbia Okanagan
BA Honours Mount Royal University
FACULTY ADVISOR/SUPERVISOR
Theses and Dissertations
Search all UBC Okanagan psychology student publications at cIRcle, the University’s digital repository for research and teaching materials.
Admission Requirements
Admission to UBC graduate programs is competitive. Applicants must meet the following criteria.
Please review the entire list of frequently asked questions prior to contacting for psychology graduate admissions.
MASTER OF ARTS (MA) APPLICANTS
Clinical Psychology
Applicants to the MA clinical psychology program are expected to have an Honours degree in psychology or a related field, with a minimum average of A (equivalent to 80% at UBC) or better, over third year-level courses and above. This must include coursework in statistics and research methodology.
Admission is restricted to those who intend to continue on to the PhD. Applicants must also have the ability to clear a criminal record check for working with vulnerable adults and/or children in order to be eligible for admission to the program and the Clinical practica.
Psychological Science
Applicants to the MA psychological science program are expected to have:
- an Honours degree in psychology or a related field, with a minimum average of A (equivalent to 80% at UBC) or better, over third year-level courses and above, or
- at least 12 credits in third- and fourth-year classes in their intended field of study with an A (equivalent to 80% at UBC) or better average, or
- significant formal training and relevant professional experience
Your background training must be sufficient for advanced work in your chosen field.
Admission is restricted to those who intend to continue on to the PhD.
DOCTORAL APPLICANTS (PhD)
Clinical Psychology
Applicants to the clinical psychology PhD program will normally have a BA or BSc and MA (or equivalent) in clinical psychology or a related field, with clear evidence of research ability or potential. Your background training must be sufficient for advanced work in your chosen field.
Applicants must also have the ability to clear a criminal record check for working with vulnerable adults/or children, in order to be eligible for the program and the practica.
Psychological Science
Applicants to the psychological science PhD program will normally have a BA or BSc and MA in psychology or a related field, with clear evidence of research ability or potential. Your background training must be sufficient for advanced work in your chosen field.
EXCEPTIONAL CASES
In exceptional cases, applicants who do not meet the requirements stated above, but who have had significant formal training and relevant professional experience, may be granted admission on the recommendation of the Psychology Graduate Studies Committee and approval of the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies.
MORE INFORMATION
Visit the UBC Okanagan Academic Calendar for full admission and program requirements information; the calendar is a comprehensive guide to all programs, courses, services, and academic policies at the University of British Columbia.
Note: In case of a discrepancy between this webpage and the UBC Calendar, the UBC Calendar entry will be held to be correct.
The College of Graduate Studies defines additional requirements and degree equivalencies.
MASTER OF ARTS (MA) APPLICANTS
Clinical Psychology
Applicants to the MA clinical psychology program are expected to have an Honours degree in psychology or a related field, with a minimum average of A- (80%). This must include coursework in statistics and research methodology.
Admission is restricted to those who intend to continue on to the PhD. Applicants must also have the ability to clear a criminal record check for working with vulnerable adults and/or children in order to be eligible for the program and the practica.
Psychological Science
Applicants to the psychological science MA program are expected to have:
- a BA or BSc in psychology or a related field, with a A- (80%) average or better in their third- or fourth-year classes, or
- at least 12 credits in third- and fourth-year classes in their intended field of study with an A- (80%) or better average
Your background training must be sufficient for advanced work in your chosen field.
English-language competence
For non-native speakers of English, minimum TOEFL scores are:
- 600 (Paper) or 100 (Internet), or
- IELTS minimum overall band score of 7.0, with no other component score less than 6.5, or
- MELAB score of at least 84
DOCTORAL APPLICANTS (PhD)
Clinical Psychology
Applicants to the clinical psychology PhD program must have completed one of the following requirements prior to admission:
- a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in clinical psychology or a related area from an approved institution, with clear evidence of research ability, or
- a bachelor’s degree, with one year of study in a Master’s program with 18 credits of first class average of which, normally, 12 credits must be at the 500 level or above, and
- clear evidence of research ability
Applicants must also have the ability to clear a criminal record check for working with vulnerable adults and/or children in order to be eligible for the program and the practica.
Psychological Science
Applicants to the psychological science PhD program will normally have a BA or BSc and MA in psychology or a related field, with clear evidence of research ability or potential. Your background training must be sufficient for advanced work in your chosen field.
English-language competence
For non-native speakers of English, minimum TOEFL scores are:
- 600 (Paper) or 100 (Internet), or
- IELTS minimum overall band score of 7.0, with no other component score less than 6.5, or
- MELAB score of at least 84
EXCEPTIONAL CASES
In exceptional cases, applicants who do not meet the requirements stated above, but who have had significant formal training and relevant professional experience, may be granted admission on the recommendation of the psychology Graduate Studies Committee and approval of the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies.
MORE INFORMATION
Visit the UBC Okanagan Academic Calendar* for full admission and program requirements information; the calendar is a comprehensive guide to all programs, courses, services, and academic policies at the University of British Columbia.
* In case of a discrepancy between this webpage and the UBC Calendar, the UBC Calendar entry will be held to be correct.
REQUIRED GRADES AND CREDENTIAL GUIDE
Grades and degree credentials required by UBC vary by country. Search the Required Grades and Credential Guide—a guide to assist international students in estimating their eligibility.
INTERNATIONAL ADVISORS
An international student advisor can answer questions about immigration, medical insurance and the transition to UBC’s Okanagan campus in Kelowna, BC. Visit the International Programs and Services website to meet the team.
Tuition & Funding
Tuition
Tuition and fees are subject to change. For official tuition and fee information, visit the UBC Okanagan Academic Calendar, a comprehensive guide to all programs, courses, services, and academic policies at the University of British Columbia.
Tuition is paid three times a year, on the first day of each term: Winter Term 1 (September), Winter Term 2 (January), and Summer Term (May).
Funding Opportunities
Graduate students are typically funded through a combination of internal and external funding awards, Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships.
Students are expected whenever possible to apply for relevant scholarships and fellowships. These include, but are not limited to, Canadian Tri-Council scholarships, University Graduate Fellowships, and Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarships.
If students wish to hold off-campus (external) employment, they should discuss with their supervisor, particularly if the student is a grant-holder, as restrictions on hours of work may apply.
GRADUATE ENTRANCE AWARD
The Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences offers a $15,000 merit-based entrance scholarship to three exceptional individuals entering their first year of thesis-based graduate studies under a supervisor from the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, or an Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies program with a supervisor who is a member of the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences.
All applicants to Irving K. Barber Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences graduate programs who have submitted an application by January 31 will be automatically considered for the award. No additional application is required. Successful applicants will be notified by March 15.
The Department of Psychology has a number of positions available for qualified students.
Teaching Assistantships (TA)
Paid TA positions are provided through the Department of Psychology and allow graduate students to develop skills in teaching, supervision, facilitation, and student assessment. Teaching assistants may lead seminars, help teach undergraduate courses, or assist in student evaluations and marking.
- MA students are eligible for paid TA positions for up to two years.
- PhD students are eligible for paid TA positions for up to four years.
- TA positions usually occur September to April. TA hours and wages are governed by the British Columbia Government Employees Union (BCGEU).
Teaching assistants are mentored by their supervisor and via the Centre for Teaching and Learning. To learn more or apply for a position, see our Careers page.
Research Assistantships (RA)
As paid research assistants, graduate students assist their supervisor or other researchers in conducting high-level research. RAs are typically funded by a supervisor’s external grants, contracts or other sources of funding, and, therefore, are not guaranteed.
Research Assistantships are wholly dependent upon individual research supervisor’s funding. RA positions may take place at any time during the school year and wages and hours will vary. RA positions are not guaranteed. Talk to your potential supervisor about RA opportunities.
UBC Awards
The College of Graduate Studies administers merit-based graduate awards at the Okanagan campus. The College manages a number of award competitions each year and administers payment of all internal awards and selected external awards.
External Awards
All prospective graduate students (Domestic and International) should explore and apply for external awards and fellowships, including awards offered by Canada’s three research councils: CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC.
Graduate scholarships and awards may also be available from foundations, private organizations or foreign governments (check with your country’s education authority).
How to Apply
Find a Supervisor
Please contact our faculty supervisors before starting your application. Admission to the program requires the confirmed availability and mentor-match with a faculty supervisor as well as meeting program-specific criteria and requirements.
A complete application package will contain:
- Online application and application fee
- Official transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended
- Evidence of adequate English proficiency, where applicable (per our College of Graduate Studies*)
- CV or resumé
- Three reference forms or letters
- Letter of intent describing research interests and plans
- Ability to clear criminal record check (required for practica, as applicable to the Clinical program stream)
*please see more here: gradstudies.ok.ubc.ca/applying/english-proficiency-requirements/
Applying takes time. We recommend you start your application two months in advance.
For full consideration students should submit all application materials by the following deadlines:
| INTAKE | APPLICATION DEADLINE |
|---|---|
| September | December 1 |
UBC’S Okanagan Campus
The University of British Columbia is a global centre for research and teaching, consistently ranked among the 40 best universities in the world. In the psychology program at UBC’s Okanagan campus, you gain all the benefits of attending a globally respected university while studying in a close-knit learning community.
DYNAMIC CITY
UBC’s Okanagan campus borders the dynamic city of Kelowna, a hub of economic development with a population of about 150,000 people—the fourth fastest growing population in Canada. In fact, the Okanagan Valley is rated one of the best communities in Canada to grow your business.
More than 160 buses travel daily from campus to key locations such as Kelowna’s cultural district and thriving downtown waterfront. The campus is two minutes from the Kelowna International Airport, one of the top 10 busiest airports in Canada.
UBC Okanagan is situated within the First Nations territory of the Okanagan Nation, whose spirit of stewardship for the land is reflected in the university’s respect for sustainability.
NATURAL BEAUTY
A diverse natural region with sandy beaches, beautiful farms, vineyards and orchards, and snow-capped mountains, the Okanagan Valley features sweeping stretches of lakeside and endless mountain trails for biking and hiking.
Check out this 360-degree video: Kelowna From Above.*
* Best viewed using desktop Chrome or Firefox (desktop) or YouTube app (mobile).
CAMPUS HOUSING
Full-time UBC Okanagan students can live in residence, which offers modern living with easy access to academic and personal support. Residences are surrounded by hiking and biking trails, plus panoramic views of the campus and valley.
OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING
* UBC does not verify or endorse information shared on this third-party website, which is offered here as a public resource only.
Join the club: Make friends with similar interests, compare notes, and organize and participate in academic and recreational events in the Psychology Course Union.
College of Graduate Studies: CoGS offers orientation events to support you in your first steps as a graduate student at UBC’s Okanagan campus.
Stay active: Take advantage of the many opportunities to get involved and play—from workout space in the new Hangar Fitness and Wellness Centre and our 1,561 square-metre gymnasium, to athletic courts, intramurals, fitness classes, and nationally ranked varsity athletics. Have a ball in Sports and Recreation.
Relax: The Graduate Collegium is a gathering place where grad students can hang out, eat lunch, spend time with their fellow students, and attend or host special events. The lounge-style room is open seven days and week and is outfitted with comfortable furniture, kitchen facilities, and individual and group-work spaces.
College of Graduate Studies: Your hub for administrative support and such things as graduate workshops for professional development and for assisting you from the admissions process through to your graduation.
Centre for Scholarly Communication: Supports graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, staff, and faculty in disseminating their research. The Library’s CSC provides one-on-one consultations and workshops, including writing support for theses, dissertations, journal articles, and grant proposals.
Centre for Teaching and Learning: Provides support related to teaching, TA training, and use of technology in educational programming.
Learn more about graduate student resources and support.
Careers and Occupations
With a psychology MA or PhD degree from the University of British Columbia, graduates are well-positioned to thrive in a variety of occupations, such as:
- Addictions support worker
- Behavioural analyst
- Correctional officer
- Crisis intervention support worker
- Human rights advisor
- Labour relations specialist
- Marketing and public relations professional
- Mental health professional
- Parole/probation officer
- Youth and family support worker
Career Services
Map out your future and prepare to hit the ground running with resources and services provided by the Advising & Involvement Centre.
Tell your story with resumé and cover-letter strategies, and search Work Study jobs for experience relevant to your degree and career goals. You can also book an appointment to meet one-on-one with our career advisor.
alumni UBC
alumni UBC is a member-driven association that offers a variety of lifetime programming and communications to enrich the lives of UBC graduates.
The ‘Your Next Step’ program offers webinars, speaker series and professional development sessions. It is designed to provide advice, tips and resources in areas of career development to graduates for life after university.
Realize the promise of a global community with shared ambition for a better world and an exceptional UBC.