California Institute of Integral Studies
Ph.D. in East-West Psychology

San Francisco, USA

DEGREE TYPE

PhD

DURATION

4 up to

7 years

LANGUAGES

English

PACE

Full time, Part time

APPLICATION DEADLINE

EARLIEST START DATE

STUDY FORMAT

Distance Learning, On-Campus

* 1st Priority deadline: Submit by February 15th at 11:59pm PT for guaranteed review. After this date, some programs may be full and only interview for waitlist spots or not be able to further review applications.

Key Summary

About : The Ph.D. in East-West Psychology focuses on the integration of Eastern and Western psychological theories and practices. This program encourages exploration and research into diverse psychological paradigms, engaging with cultural contexts and philosophical foundations. Students experience a blend of academic study and personal development, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the human psyche and its global dimensions.

Career Outcomes : Graduates can pursue various career paths, including roles in academia, clinical practice, research, and consultancy. They may also work in organizations that promote cross-cultural understanding and holistic approaches to mental health.

The mission of the PhD in East-West Psychology at CIIS is to explore the convergence of Eastern, Western, and Indigenous psychologies and spiritualities in the spirit of dialogue and integral inquiry. Our students engage in research subjects that explore the meaning of this convergence for a diverse, multicultural, and peaceful world.

We encourage students to build bridges between disciplines or fields of research (e.g., psychoanalysis and Buddhism), research methodologies (e.g., theoretical, phenomenological, narrative, heuristic), approaches to knowledge e.g., (using first-, second-, and third-person standpoints), and epistemologies (e.g., Eastern contemplative and Western scientific).

East-West Psychology students contribute their expertise to the expansive field of integral philosophies through original research for their dissertation. Many students use their dissertation to contribute to growing bodies of research in areas such as mindfulness, somatic spirituality, eco-psychology, Indigenous and earth-based wisdom, community-building, restorative justice, integral yoga, and non-ordinary states of consciousness.