Northcentral University

FROM OUR DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATES… James S. Cawood Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (2016) Dr. James Cawood was attracted to Northcentral University because he wanted to earn an accredited, non-clinical PhD in Psychology, while also having the flexibility to work full-time and maintain a hectic travel schedule. Dr. Cawood previously earned a master's degree in forensic psychology, and spent the past 25 years working as a threat/violence risk assessment professional for government and private organizations. He published two editions of a book on violence risk assessment, has written numerous chapters for other textbooks, and has lectured nationally and internationally. Dr. Cawood searched for a program that would challenge him and further broaden his psychological knowledge. He sought to hone his scientific writing skills while focusing on violence risk assessment. He found this at NCU. "Every class and every assignment helped me become a clearer thinker and better writer," Dr. Cawood said. "I was able to shape most of my writing assignments around the violence risk assessment subject matter, which expanded my exposure to scientific literature. By the time I reached the dissertation phase, I had a large bibliography of literature to draw from and a honed research idea to pursue." The flexibility provided at NCU ensured he could continue his education, despite the life challenges that arose. "Because of the flexible nature of the NCU program, the quality of the NCU online library, a series of good academic advisors, and a fantastic dissertation chair, I was able to complete my degree in just under six years, graduating in spring 2016." Since graduation, an article derived from Dr. Cawood's dissertation work has been published in one of the American Psychological Association's journals, and he presented that paper at the American Psychology-Law Society's annual conference (Division 41 of the American Psychological Association). He has another collaborative research paper in the final stages, and is also being offered expert witness work that he believes would not have been offered if he did not have a doctorate in psychology. "The doctorate in psychology program is rigorous," Dr. Cawood said. "The coursework is relentless. But if you want to challenge yourself and build a solid foundation for expanding your knowledge of psychology, and use that knowledge to create new scientific knowledge while giving you more options in life, I would recommend the program." 21

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