what to do with clinical psychology phd

Get Your Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, at a glance, why get a phd in clinical psychology, entry requirements for a clinical psychology phd program, what’s covered in a clinical psychology phd program, how much does a phd in clinical psychology cost, program funding and financial support, program duration and flexibility, location and access to clinical populations, program curriculum and specializations, internship placement and post-graduation outcomes, what jobs can you do with a phd in clinical psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in clinical psychology.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in  clinical psychology  is an advanced academic degree that delves into the scientific study, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders and behavioral conditions. This rigorous program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in research, teaching, and direct clinical practice. Through the blend of coursework, research, and hands-on clinical training, students are equipped with comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in the field of psychology.

Typically, a PhD in clinical psychology takes between 4 to 7 years to complete, with the variation in duration often depending on the specific requirements of the program, the nature of the student’s research, and the requisite clinical training hours. Most programs include a combination of classroom-based learning, research projects culminating in a dissertation, and applied clinical experience through internships or  practicums .

The curriculum for a PhD in clinical psychology encompasses a wide range of topics. Core areas of study usually include foundations of clinical psychology, research methods, psychopathology, psychological assessment, and various psychotherapy and counseling techniques. Additionally, students often delve into specialized subjects such as  neuropsychology ,  forensic psychology ,  child psychology  and health psychology. This comprehensive training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address diverse psychological needs across different populations and settings.

There are a multitude of reasons why students pursue a PhD in clinical psychology, here are a few key reasons to consider it:

Demand for Clinical Psychologists

The demand for  clinical psychologists  has been steadily rising, reflecting the growing awareness and acceptance of mental health services in the general population. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (as of 2019), the employment of psychologists is projected to grow 14% from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the greater demand for psychological services in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and social service agencies. With a PhD in clinical psychology, individuals are well-equipped to meet this increasing demand, providing essential services and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Opportunity for Specialization and Higher Earnings

Pursuing a PhD in clinical psychology opens doors to various specializations, such as neuropsychology, child psychology, or forensic psychology. Specialized psychologists often have the potential for higher earnings compared to their generalist counterparts. For instance, according to a 2019 salary survey by the American Psychological Association (APA), doctoral-level clinical psychologists with a specialization (like neuropsychologists) reported median salaries that were approximately 40% higher than those without a specialization. A PhD program allows for deep dives into specific areas of interest, enhancing expertise and potentially boosting earning potential.

Leadership Opportunities and Policy Influence

One of the often-overlooked advantages of a PhD in clinical psychology is the doors it opens to leadership roles within organizations and the potential to influence public policy. The intensive training and deep expertise gained from such a doctoral program position graduates as thought leaders in the field of mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, psychologists with doctoral degrees often find themselves in positions where they can shape policy, both within healthcare institutions and at regional or national levels. Their informed perspectives are invaluable in advisory roles, committees, or when collaborating with governments to create mental health programs, ensuring that psychological services are both effective and accessible. A PhD not only amplifies their voice but also underscores the weight of their expertise in these pivotal roles.

• Bachelor’s Degree : Typically in psychology or a related field, though some programs may accept applicants from other disciplines if they’ve completed prerequisite courses.
• Master’s Degree : Some programs prefer or require a  master’s degree  in psychology or a related field, while others will accept students directly from a  bachelor’s program .
• Grade Point Average (GPA) : Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.
• Letters of Recommendation : Typically from professors, researchers, or professionals familiar with the applicant’s academic and/or clinical work.
• Background Check : Given the nature of clinical work, some programs might require a background check before final admission.

A PhD in clinical psychology is designed to train students in both the science and practice of psychology. The curriculum typically covers a wide array of topics to ensure that graduates are well-rounded and competent researchers, educators, and clinicians. Here’s an overview of the subjects often covered:

• Foundations of Clinical Psychology : This introduces students to the history, theories, and key concepts of the field.
• Research Methods and Statistics : Comprehensive training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, along with advanced statistical techniques, ensuring students can design and analyze research effectively.
• Psychopathology : Study of various psychological disorders, understanding their origins, classifications, and manifestations across the lifespan.
• Psychological Assessment : Techniques and tools used for clinical assessments, including intelligence testing, personality assessment, and neuropsychological testing.
• Psychotherapy and Intervention : Training in therapeutic modalities and techniques, from cognitive-behavioral therapy to psychodynamic approaches, ensuring students can provide evidence-based treatments.
• Professional Ethics and Issues : Examination of the ethical guidelines and professional standards in the practice of clinical psychology.
• Biological Bases of Behavior : Understanding the neurobiological and physiological processes underpinning behavior, emotion, and cognition.
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior : Exploring how cognitive processes and emotions shape human behavior.
• Social Bases of Behavior : Understanding social interactions, group dynamics, and broader societal and cultural factors that influence psychology.
• Human Development : Insights into psychological development from infancy to old age.
• Diversity and Multicultural Psychology : Training to ensure culturally competent care, addressing the unique psychological needs of diverse populations.

Here’s a sample curriculum for a PhD program in clinical psychology:

• Introduction to Clinical Psychology
• Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Theory and Practice
• Research Methods in Psychology I
• Psychological Statistics I
• Clinical Practicum I
• Psychopathology I
• Psychological Assessment I: Cognitive and Intellectual Assessment
• Research Methods in Psychology II
• Psychological Statistics II
• Clinical Practicum II

Second Year

• Psychopathology II
• Psychological Assessment II: Personality Assessment
• Human Development Across the Lifespan
• Biological Bases of Behavior
• Clinical Practicum III
• Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Therapies
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior
• Advanced Quantitative Methods
• Professional Ethics in Clinical Psychology
• Clinical Practicum IV
• Neuropsychological Assessment
• Multicultural Psychology and Diversity Issues in Treatment
• Social Bases of Behavior
• Health Psychology
• Clinical Practicum V
• Forensic Psychology
• Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy
• Advanced Clinical Seminar (e.g., trauma therapy or substance abuse treatment)
• Supervision and Consultation in Clinical Practice
• Clinical Practicum VI

Fourth Year

• Family and Couples Therapy
• Advanced Research Seminar I
• Clinical Psychopharmacology (for some programs)
• Elective Course (e.g., School Psychology, Military Psychology, etc.)
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Advanced Research Seminar II
• Group Psychotherapy
• Elective Course (e.g., Geriatric Psychology, Positive Psychology, etc.)
• Dissertation Research
• Predoctoral Internship (typically a full-year, full-time commitment)
• Dissertation Completion and Defense

The cost of pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology varies significantly based on the type of institution and residency status.

Generally, private universities tend to have higher tuition rates, ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 per year. Public universities, on the other hand, offer different rates for in-state and out-of-state residents; in-state tuition can range between $10,000 to $30,000 per year, while out-of-state students might pay between $25,000 to $50,000 annually. These figures don’t account for other costs like fees, books, and living expenses.

It’s worth noting that many Clinical Psychology PhD programs provide financial support, often in the form of fellowships, research, or teaching assistantships, which can cover tuition and offer stipends.

What to look for in a PhD program

It can be overwhelming with so many PhD programs out there and so many factors to consider. Choosing a program in clinical psychology is a significant decision that will impact the trajectory of your career. Here are a few key ways to compare programs/institutions:

Fully funded programs, which include tuition waivers and stipends, can drastically reduce student debt and allow students to focus on their studies.The National Science Foundation’s Survey of Earned Doctorates found that over 75% of research doctorate recipients in psychology reported no education-related debt, largely due to funding availability in their programs.

The length of a program and its ability to accommodate part-time students or offer flexible schedules can be vital, especially for those balancing work, family, or other commitments.

According to the APA, the median time to complete a doctorate in psychology has been around 7 years. However, some programs, especially those designed for working professionals, might offer accelerated tracks or part-time options, which can affect this duration.

Being in a location that provides access to diverse clinical populations or specific groups that align with a student’s research interests can be invaluable for hands-on training and research.

A report from the APA emphasized the importance of diversity in clinical training. Programs located in urban settings or areas with diverse communities can offer broader exposure and experience in multicultural clinical practice, which is essential for a comprehensive education in clinical psychology.

The curriculum and available specializations should align with a student’s career and research interests.

In a survey by the APA, PhD recipients emphasized the importance of finding a program that matched their specific interests, as this played a crucial role in their eventual job satisfaction and career trajectory.

High-quality internship placements and positive post-graduation outcomes can significantly influence a graduate’s early career.

The Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) provides data on internship match rates. Programs with high match rates to APA-accredited internships often signal strong training and preparation.

• Licensed Clinical Psychologist : This is perhaps the most direct application of the degree. Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They might work with specific populations, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with severe mental illness.
• Licensed professional counselor : an LPC is a mental health professional trained to provide therapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, and groups for a variety of emotional and psychological challenges.
• Mental Health Counselor :  provide counseling and therapy services to individuals and groups with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
• School Psychologist :  work in K-12 schools to provide counseling and support services to students, including academic guidance, behavioral interventions, and emotional support.
• Professor : A PhD graduate can work in academia, conducting research on various psychological topics and teaching undergraduate and graduate students.
• Forensic Psychologist : Working at the intersection of psychology and the legal system, forensic psychologists might assess defendants’ competency, provide expert testimony, or evaluate the risk of reoffending. Although you might instead consider a  PhD in forensic psychology .
• Neuropsychologist:  diagnose and treat cognitive and behavioral disorders related to brain function, such as traumatic brain injury and dementia.
• Health Psychologist : Focusing on how psychological factors affect health and illness, these professionals might work in hospitals, clinics, or public health settings to improve patient outcomes.
• Director of Clinical Services : Those with a blend of clinical expertise and administrative skills might oversee clinical services at hospitals, clinics, or mental health centers
• Research Psychologist :  conduct research on a variety of topics related to human behavior and mental health, including developmental psychology, social psychology, and cognitive psychology.
• Industrial-Organizational Psychologist : work with organizations to improve productivity and employee well-being through programs such as employee selection, training, and development.
• Licensed Clinical Psychologist : $91,677
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) : $65,000
• Mental Health Counselor : $60,000
• School Psychologist : $90,000
• Professor (Psychology) : $80,370
• Forensic Psychologist : $101,000
• Neuropsychologist : $79,820
• Health Psychologist: $100,000
• Director of Clinical Services: $120,000
• Research Psychologist : $79,000
• Industrial-Organizational Psychologist : $112,690

• Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology is the psychological specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive mental and behavioral health care for individuals, couples, families, and groups; consultation to agencies and communities; training, education and supervision; and research-based practice. It is a specialty in breadth — one that addresses a wide range of mental and behavioral health problems— and marked by comprehensiveness and integration of knowledge and skill from a broad array of disciplines within and outside of psychology proper. The scope of clinical psychology encompasses all ages, multiple diversities, and varied systems. 

Specialized knowledge

• Understanding of psychopathology and mental health across the lifespan 
• Ability to assess cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and interpersonal functioning, and to integrate and synthesize test data with observations, interviews, and other data sources 
• Ability to conduct psychological and behavioral intervention to improve health and functioning using a wide range of evidence-based interventions 
• Ability to conduct, disseminate, and implement research on a range of clinical psychological processes  
• Establishment and maintenance of therapeutic relationships and communication with a broad diversity of populations 
• Ability to recognize and respond to ethical, legal, regulatory issues as they pertain to the practice of clinical psychology 
• Understanding of professional expectations that guide behavior, promote self-reflection, integrity, and accountability 
• Awareness and understanding of how developmental stages and life transitions intersect with the larger biosociocultural context, how identity evolves as a function of such intersections, and how these different socialization and maturation experiences influence worldview and identity 

Problems addressed

The specialty of clinical psychology addresses behavioral and mental health issues faced by individuals across the lifespan including:

• Adjustment issues and traumatic stress reactions
• Emotional and psychological problems, including serious mental illness and crisis intervention
• Interpersonal or social problems and dysfunction
• Behavioral problems including substance abuse and dependence
• Intellectual, cognitive, and neurological conditions

Populations served

Clinical psychologists provide services to individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan, and populations from all ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The problems or needs addressed range from minor adjustment issues to serious mental health problems. Clinical psychologists work with groups and communities to address or prevent problems and intervene in organizations, institutions, and communities to enhance people’s effectiveness and well-being.

Skills and procedures utilized

• Assessment using interviewing, behavioral assessment, administration and interpretation of psychological test measures
• Intervention using a range of evidence-based approaches for individuals, families, and groups
• Supervision and training of students and other trainees as guided by theory and research
• Consultation with a range of health and behavioral health professionals and organizations

Related resources

Recognized Specialties and Proficiencies

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Commission for the Recognition of Specialties and Proficiencies in Professional Psychology (CRSPPP)

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What Can You Do with a PhD in Clinical Psychology?

The field of clinical psychology provides graduates with a variety of careers.

With millions of Americans suffering from mental health concerns, trained clinical psychologists are one of the most in-demand professions. A clinical psychologist is a broad title for professionals concerned with the prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness. The demand for clinical psychologists is not only high currently, but it is expected to grow in the future.  According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for clinical psychologists with a PhD in Psychology are expected to  grow by six percent * between 2021 and 2031.

Palo Alto University (PAU) offers two doctoral programs to become a clinical psychologist: PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Clinical Psychology and PsyD (Doctor of Psychology). The  PhD in Clinical Psychology has a greater focus on research, and many of the graduates from this program work in academia as a researcher and professor along with working with clients as a therapist. The second doctoral offering, the  PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) , has a greater emphasis on working directly with patients in applied clinical settings, such as hospitals or mental health centers, or in individual or group private practice settings.

*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Psychologists

 Jobs in Psychology with a PhD

There are a variety of career paths for those with a doctoral degree in psychology. Many clinical psychologists offer private therapy to clients, but other professional psychologists are employed by schools, the court system, or business organizations. Most clinical psychologists specialize their training depending on which demographic they want to serve. 

Within the field of clinical psychology, here are some of the most popular career options.  All Salaries are based on 2024 Zip Recruiter averages, these salaries can depend on many factors. 

Psychotherapist 

Avg. Yearly Salary: $90,572

Some graduates of doctoral degrees in clinical psychology choose to concentrate in psychotherapy, which is the treatment of mental conditions by verbal communication (aka talk therapy). Often, psychotherapists specialize in one counseling method such as cognitive behavioral therapy or hypnotherapy. Many psychotherapists open their own private practice, meet with clients one-on-one in clinical settings, and develop ongoing care plans for their clients. However, psychotherapists can also work at institutions that provide mental health services, such as a hospital, clinic, or residential facility.

Marriage and Family Therapist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $77,166 

A clinical psychologist that offers psychotherapy to couples and families is called a Marriage and Family Therapist. Here, the clinical psychologist addresses mental health concerns and negative habits that occur in the home and facilitates problem solving and care plans to address a variety of mental health needs. 

Child Psychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $109,894

Also known as a  Pediatric Behavioral Health specialist, this emphasis focuses on the specific mental health needs of children and adolescents. 

School Psychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $92,813

This clinical psychologist is employed by public school districts, private schools, or learning centers to help students overcome psychological challenges, such as learning disabilities, emotional issues, social adjustments, or other behavioral problems that hinder learning. Some school psychologists work with teachers, parents, and school administrators to create individualized educational programs for students who struggle with learning as well as for gifted students.

Diversity and Community Mental Health Psychologist

Clinical psychologists who want to work with couples and families from underserved communities can specialize in  Diversity and Community Mental Health and be trained to provide culturally-competent psychological services for the public mental health sector.

LGBTQ+ Psychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $63,943

LGBTQ+ psychologists are   clinical psychologists who want to work with the LGBTQ+ community and acquire knowledge and training to effectively address mental health concerns specific to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer populations.

Forensic Psychologists

Avg. Yearly Salary: $87,877

Forensic Psychologists  take psychological insights and apply them to the legal system, such as criminal and civil matters. Some work with law enforcement, court consulting and jury selection. Others offer mental health services in prisons, and work with probation and parole assessment. They can also work with victim advocacy, family law, risk assessment, civil commitment, juvenile delinquency, insurance claims, and other areas of the justice system. 

Health Psychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $120,811  

Health psychologists work collaboratively with medical providers to offer mental health services for clients dealing with a physical illness. 

Geropsychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $360,000

Geropychologists specialize in understanding the mental health needs and best treatment for older adults, aged 65 and older. This branch of psychology focuses on serving seniors and their families to maintain a high quality of life and overcome physical, mental, and emotional obstacles related to aging.

Neuropsychology

Avg. Yearly Salary: $122,928 

Clinical psychologists that are interested in the connection between brain function and human behavior specialize their PhD in Psychology education and training in  neuropsychology , which is a great career path for science-minded psychology students.

Trauma Psychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $92,813 

Trauma psychologists study how traumatic events affect behavior and offer trauma-informed mental health care to their clients. They offer care to mitigate both the immediate and long-term effects of trauma exposure. Trauma psychologists work with various groups that have experienced trauma, such as combat veterans, victims of mass casualty events, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Rehabilitation Psychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $95,844  

 Rehabilitation psychologists work with people who have had an injury or illness resulting in a disability, such as becoming wheelchair bound or having a chronic illness. They focus on the psychology of loss and work with their clients to foster independence and adjustment to living with a disability. Rehabilitation psychologists work in acute care hospitals, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation centers, assisted living and long-term care facilities, and Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Avg. Yearly Salary: $120,524

Many organizational psychologists work in the human resources department of businesses and non-profit organizations to recruit talent, streamline company processes, facilitate courses in group dynamics and leadership, and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. Within the company, an industrial-organizational psychologist may conduct screening tests, performance reviews, and training sessions to help employees work effectively to achieve common company goals, retain employees, and increase efficiency and overall production.

Sports Psychologist

Sport psychologists work with athletes to enhance their wellbeing and overcome psychological blocks to improving performance and achieve their goals. They often offer therapy for such issues as career transitions, eating disorders, rehabilitation after an injury, or other personal problems that may affect their athletic performance. They may also work with teams to improve group dynamics or leadership issues. Along with psychology, they typically have expertise in physiology, biomechanics, and kinesiology. Some sports psychologists research factors that lead to athletic success, the developmental and social effects of participating in sports at different ages, or the psychological effects of physical injury. 

Clinical Psychology Professor and/or Researcher

Avg. Yearly Salary: $101,568

In many universities, doctoral level faculty split their time teaching classes in psychology and conducting academic research on the influences of thought patterns and human behavior on individuals, families, and society. Research psychologists often manage laboratories with student trainees, write grant applications to fund their research, share their findings at conferences, and publish their findings in academic journals. This research may lead to important discoveries in the field of psychology and influence mental health services that are offered to the public.

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Clinical Psychology PhD Program

Founded on a scientist-practitioner model, the overall goal of the Clinical Psychology PhD Program is to graduate academic psychologists who are competent, ethical and productive in the science and practice of clinical psychology. Our program emphasizes the integration of science and clinical practice.

Directors' Message Student Admissions, Outcomes & Other Data Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Social Justice

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Learn more about the criteria for applying to the program as well as tuition and financial aid.

Our curriculum is structured to maximize clinical, research and ethical training for students.

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Meet our current students and their faculty mentors. Each student works closely with a faculty member throughout their tenure at Northwestern. Browse the Faculty Mentor list to learn more about their research projects and see who is currently recruiting new students.

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JD-PhD Program

Northwestern's joint JD-PhD program  is a collaboration between The Graduate School and Northwestern Law. It's designed for applicants who are interested in academic careers examining research topics that are enriched by having both JD and PhD degrees.

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To contact the PhD Program in Clinical Psychology, please email us at [email protected] .

Please DO NOT call the number below as it will go to our clinic; it is reserved for patients. Please DO NOT call any other numbers that you may find within the Feinberg School of Medicine. We will only respond to emails that are sent to the following email address: [email protected] . Please DO NOT  contact via phone or email the MD Admissions Office; they are not involved in the admissions process for the PhD program in Clinical Psychology. 

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• Psychology Programs

What Can I Do With a Clinical Psychology Degree? [2024 Updated]

It is true that it can sometimes take a long time to earn a clinical psychology degree , but for many it is well worth the time, effort and commitment it takes to get it.

One of the main advantages of having an advanced degree (master’s and/or doctorate) in clinical psychology is that it opens up doors for you in a variety of different psychological industries.

For instance, with a doctorate in clinical psychology you can become a college professor, researcher, psychologist (in any field that provides services), etc.

You can also provide counseling services to specific groups: children, families, marital couples, ethnic and cultural groups, the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, religious individuals, etc.

One of the best perks is that you will more than likely have more say in the hours that you work (especially if you have your own practice). You can do a lot of things with a degree in clinical psychology and this article will help you chart the path to success.

What are the Careers in Clinical Psychology?

Following are some of the popular careers you can pursue with a clinical psychology degree:

• Clinical Psychologist

Child Psychologist

Counseling psychologist, medical psychologist, mental health social worker, neuropsychologist, private psychologist, rehabilitation psychologist, school psychologist.

• Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Case Manager

Special Education Teacher

Substance abuse counselor, clinical psychology college professor, behavioral health psychologist.

As a behavioral health psychologist, you typically work with clients in individual and group settings to help them overcome behavioral difficulties like addiction. That means that your job isn’t just counseling your clients, but also helping them identify triggers, learn coping skills, and generally helping them to function in a healthier manner. You may work as a behavioral health counselor with a master’s degree and find many employment opportunities.

One of the most popular fields of psychology is child psychology . A doctorate in clinical psychology can allow you to work as a child psychologist at schools, inpatient or outpatient treatment facilities, juvenile detention centers, mental hospitals, clinics, research laboratories and/or private practices.

Your main responsibilities will include: teaching children and adolescents healthy coping and communication skills, helping children work through emotional distress, improving the learning experience for students, counseling mentally ill children and adolescents, providing academic guidance to students, altering unhealthy, destructive and dangerous thinking patterns and behaviors and providing support.

Your goal will be to develop tailor-made treatment plans for your clients that consist of a variety of psychological techniques, methods and strategies such as role–playing with dolls and/or writing in a journal.

Clinical Case Manager

With a background in clinical psychology, you might work as a clinical case manager . In this position, you would most likely be responsible for managing a caseload of clients with very diverse needs, though, in some employment settings, clinical case managers might specialize with a certain population (i.e., clients with eating disorders).

Primarily, your function would be to maintain periodic contact with each client, connect them with necessary resources, and help them work through problems. Some clinical case management positions can be found with just a bachelor’s degree, but you will find more job opportunities with a master’s degree.

If you enjoy psychology as well as teaching others, a career as a clinical psychology college professor might be a good fit. Typically, psychology professors have had a number of years of experience working in the field, either in a clinical or research setting.

Once you have some experience, you can draw on those experiences to assist your students in better understanding key psychological concepts and practices. Junior professor positions are often open to you if you have a master’s degree, but to become a tenured professor, a doctorate is typically required.

Clinical Social Worker

As a clinical social worker , your tasks might be to assist clients in two primary areas: procuring needed resources to live (i.e., job assistance, rent assistance) and helping them work through personal problems that are causing difficulties in their lives (i.e., depression, anxiety).

Often, clinical social workers are employed in treatment centers, hospitals, and residential facilities, though you can also work in private practice and other settings. Though some clinical social workers have just a bachelor’s degree in social work, many states require social workers to have a master’s degree in order to become a licensed clinical social worker.

If you pursue a career as a counseling psychologist , you may work with clients to improve their well being by addressing behavioral, emotional, and mental difficulties that have negatively impacted their lives.

Typically, you would meet with clients in a counseling setting, and talk through issues in a very personal and non-threatening way. Sometimes you might simply listen; other times you might help them build skills. Many counseling psychologists practice with a master’s degree.

As a medical psychologist , you work with patients whose physiological functioning is negatively impacted by their behavior. That is, you would address topics like disease prevention and healthy lifestyle choices in the context of a clinical psychology setting.

For example, if a patient complains of constant, severe headaches, you would strive to understand the behaviors that might make headaches more likely. If headaches result from drinking a lot of coffee in the morning to wake up after not getting enough sleep the night before, you would work with the client to develop better sleeping habits.

With a bachelor’s or master’s degree in clinical psychology, you can become a mental health social worker. Your primary responsibilities will be to provide counseling services and resources (under the supervision of a psychologist or psychiatrist) to clients and/or patients.

Some of your other duties may include: conducting crisis intervention groups, developing outreach programs for at-risk youth, helping clients re-enter the community, helping clients find housing, daycare services, sign up for healthcare and government assistance, taking clients to school, doctor’s appointments, etc. You may also help individuals work through social, work, family, relationship and/or personal issues.

With an advanced degree (doctorate) in clinical psychology you may be able to enter the field of neuropsychology . This field focuses on brain processes and behaviors. If you decide to pursue this career field, you will more than likely work at a trauma centers for brain-injuries and/or stroke survivors, hospitals (in the trauma department) or at a research laboratory.

Your main responsibilities will be to determine the extent of a brain injury or brain damage by assessing the patient’s cognitive performance. You will use a variety of psychological assessments, equipment and techniques to interview, observe, evaluate, diagnose and treat patients with abnormal brain function/activity and cognitive deficits.

If you choose to work for yourself in private practice , you might enjoy many benefits of being self-employed, like being able to focus on an area of psychology that you enjoy the most.

For example, as a private psychologist, you may work primarily with children, people with anxiety, or specialize in mood disorders. Private psychologists must possess at least a master’s degree, though it’s often prudent to pursue a doctorate to open up more job opportunities.

Psychotherapist

If you work as a psychotherapist , you meet with clients, usually in a one-on-one clinical setting, to assist them in bringing about personal change that helps them overcome problems or obstacles in their lives.

Psychotherapy is a form of clinical psychology that emphasizes the value of developing a trusting relationship with the client and relying on talking, listening, and relationship building to bring about positive change.

As a rehabilitation psychologist , you would rely on the principles of clinical psychology to assist your clients in identifying mental illnesses, behavioral disorders, disabilities, and so forth, which have a negative impact on their ability to function normally. For example, you might treat a client for depression as it relates to the recent loss of a limb, such as their leg.

In the context of counseling, you might help the client build skills that help them minimize the impact of their disability or provide exercises that help them focus on the positive aspects of their life to help them overcome their depression.

As a school psychologist , you typically use psychological principles to assist students in improving their ability to learn, improve their behavior, and address their mental health concerns.

Additionally, you might also work directly with teachers to develop age-appropriate lesson plans that support student learning and enhance their ability to develop the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in school and in life. School psychologists usually have at least a master’s degree, of which part of the degree program is a supervised internship period.

With a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology, you may be able to enter the field of education as a special education teacher .

Your educational background may help you provide services to students with mental, physical and emotional developmental delays and learning disabilities. You may work with students that have mild disabilities or you may work with students that have moderate-to-severe disabilities.

Your primary goal will be to make sure that disabled students receive the best education possible. Your main function will be to tweak classroom curriculum to ensure that your students are learning what they need to learn to function to the best of their abilities.

You may teach basic curriculum (math, English, science and social studies) at a slower pace or you may teach independent living skills (brushing teeth, bathing, paying bills, making decisions, cooking, socializing, etc.).

Another possible career path you can take if you have a master’s degree in clinical psychology is substance abuse counseling. It is important to note that some states will allow you to practice as a substance abuse counselor with a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology, so it is important to research your state’s requirements before enrolling a clinical psychology program.

With this degree, you will be able to counsel clients addicted to alcohol, drugs, gambling and/or food. You may also develop community outreach programs, and/or educate the public about the dangers of substance abuse.

Counseling may occur in a private office or it may occur in a group setting. You will primarily work at a substance abuse treatment center, hospital, clinic or private practice.

Related Reading

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker Career
• Career Options With a Degree in Psychology
• What are the Careers in Forensic Psychology?
• Neuropsychologist Schooling and Degree Guide
• NO GRE Online Master’s in Educational And Clinical Psychology

References and Further Reading

• American Psychological Association (APA) – About Clinical Psychology .
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Psychologists – Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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PhD in Clinical Psychology

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Accredited by the American Psychological Association , the clinical psychology PhD program follows a scientist-practitioner model. Students are trained as applied researchers and scientists, developing skills in research and practical methods used to advance knowledge of the causes, prevention and treatment of emotional, behavioral and physical health problems within diverse communities.

We embrace a community psychology orientation that emphasizes multiple influences on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities and values engaging communities in all aspects of the work that we do.

Our training is grounded in developmental and social-ecological perspectives that attend to the intersection of multiple forms of diversity and recognize the impacts of systemic oppression on individuals and communities. We aspire to train behavioral scientists who are able to identify, implement and evaluate strategies to promote equity and social justice and to reduce health and mental health disparities in a variety of settings.

Faculty subscribe to a range of theoretical orientations, including cognitive-behavioral, family systems, social-ecological and community frameworks. These perspectives enable students to develop a broad base of knowledge and the opportunity to specialize in particular areas of research and evidence-based application.

  Apply to GW

  Resources for Current Students

  Clinical Doctoral Student Handbook for Fall 2022 (PDF)

Faculty Mentor Requirement

The clinical program follows a mentorship model. Qualified applicants are chosen based on how their interests fit with the overall goals of the program and with the research interests of specific faculty members. These faculty will be available to mentor students beginning in the 2025-26 academic year: Dr. Sarah Calabrese , Dr. Fallon Goodman and Dr. Sharon Lambert .

Applicants should review bios for these core faculty and indicate their ranking on the online application for the PhD program in clinical psychology.

Faculty Preference Ranking (PDF)

Program Information

American psychological association accreditation.

The clinical psychology program has been accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) Committee on Accreditation (COA) since 1970. COA is part of the Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation (OPCA).

View Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data

Further information on the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences’ accreditation status and the accreditation process may be obtained from the American Psychological Association:

American Psychological Association Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation 750 First St. NE Washington, DC 20002-4242 202-336-5979  [email protected]

The clinical psychology program is also recognized by the Society for Community Research and Action as a doctoral clinical-community training program.

To build real-world clinical experience, students in the PhD program complete a minimum of two assessment practica and two therapy practica in the  Meltzer Psychological and Community-Based Services Center.

Additionally, students complete two externship placements in community settings. Clinical practice is supervised by licensed faculty members and clinicians at field placements.

Finally, as part of the PhD program in Clinical Psychology, students are also required to complete a one-year Psychology Internship Training Program. In almost all cases this will be an APA- approved pre-doctoral internship program.

Our Clinical Psychology program trains graduates who are successfully licensed in many states. No graduate from our program has been turned down for licensure due to insufficiencies in our program’s education and training. However, the practice of psychology (licensure) is regulated at the state level. State licensing authorities, commonly referred to as “State Boards,” determine the specific educational and training requirements for licensure in their State. Licensure requires more training than our degree’s educational requirements and may vary by state. Most states have post-doctoral clinical supervision requirements, and some states have specific training requirements that may not be automatically covered in GWU’s program. For a general description of the licensing processes in clinical psychology and a state by state listing of our recent understanding of educational requirements and how GWU’s program aligns with the requirements of each state, please review our Consumer Disclosure Information report (PDF) .

The program develops students into well-rounded, confident professionals in several roles:

• Researchers and applied scientists
• Interventionists who use methods and substantive findings to inform assessment, prevention and treatment
• Professionals who consider applied problems from a lifespan developmental perspective and from multiple levels within human social ecology
• Clinical psychologists equipped with the specialized skills necessary for implementing promotion, prevention and treatment programs for diverse clients

Clinical Doctoral Student Handbook for Fall 2022 (PDF)

NIMH T32 Training Program for Select Students

The George Washington University is offering full doctoral scholarships* to prepare the next generation of community-engaged researchers to develop and lead social-structural and intersectional approaches to promote equity and improve HIV and related health outcomes. The training program is supported by 18 multi-disciplinary faculty conducting both global and domestic research on HIV, mental health, substance use, and violence.

Trainees will receive instruction and mentorship in:

• Social and structural, critical, and intersectional theory
• Community-engaged research design and methods
• Multi-level intervention development and evaluation

Trainees must apply and be accepted to the PhD program. Individuals from underrepresented populations are strongly encouraged to apply. To learn more about TASHI, visit the website or email [email protected] .​

*Full scholarships include tuition, living expenses, and health insurance.

"Through class discussion, research and clinical experiences, I learned that the symptom is never bigger than the story. This has been a cornerstone of my work as a clinician."

Henry Prempeh PhD '13

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Course Requirements

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

The general requirements stated under  Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs .

The requirements for the  Doctor of Philosophy Program .

72 credits, including 54 credits in required courses, at least 6 credits in dissertation courses, and 15 credits in dissertation or elective courses. Students also take five 0-credit courses and successfully complete a comprehensive examination.

In addition, students are required to obtain clinical training, including a minimum of two assessment practica and two therapy practica in the  Meltzer Center ’s Psychological and Community-Based Services, and to complete a one-year psychology internship training program. In almost all cases this will be an APA- approved pre-doctoral internship program.

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

Our highly ranked program built on the scholar-practitioner model continues to set the pace for doctoral-level training.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Clinical Psychology?

A doctorate in clinical psychology can lead to rewarding careers doing consultation, evaluation or psychotherapy in clinics, hospitals or private practice. You can also pursue a career in academia, focusing on research and teaching.

Common career paths for those with a PhD in clinical psychology include:

• Private practice, seeing clients individually or in groups
• Hospitals and clinics, providing therapy to patients with a variety of mental health issues
• Academia, conducting important research and training for the next generation of psychologists
• Government, providing mental health services to veterans, prisoners or other populations
• Business, providing counseling to employees or conducting research on workplace issues

The job outlook for those with a PhD in clinical psychology is good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of psychologists will grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing demand for mental health services, as well as the aging population, who are more likely to experience mental health challenges.

Why Earn Your PhD in Clinical Psychology at Adelphi in New York on Long Island?

The Derner School of Psychology set the pace in clinical psychology training as the first university-based professional school, accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) since 1957.

Our clinical psychology doctoral program will help you will pursue research and clinical training with faculty members who are known nationally and internationally for their expertise in a broad range of areas, including:

• Personality and interpersonal relations
• Psychopathology, especially anxiety, depression and trauma
• Psychodynamics—from classical to contemporary
• Psychotherapy integration, primarily cognitive behavioral, within a dynamic framework
• Cultural diversity and individual difference studies

Derner Clinical Psychology PhD students gain clinical experience primarily at Derner’s Center for Psychological Services , with locations on the Garden City campus and in Brooklyn. They also have the opportunity to train at the Derner Hempstead Child Clinic. In addition, students continue their externships and internships—including those at affiliated sites in the Derner Internship Consortium—on Long Island and in the New York City area.

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program Accreditation Status

The Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology at The Derner School of Psychology at Adelphi University is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association and has been continuously accredited since 04/01/1957 (American Psychological Association, Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, Commission on Accreditation, 750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242; 202-336-5979; [email protected] ). Full information pertaining to the accreditation status of the Derner School of Psychology   PhD Program at Adelphi University is available at the APA’s website .

Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data

Derner Consortium Internship

The Derner Internship Consortium was granted membership status in the  Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC)  in November 2013, and participates in the APPIC-sponsored Match for all positions. It also became accredited by the  American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation  (750 First St., NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242, telephone number 202-336-5979) in 2015. This consortium was created in order to support our doctoral students by providing additional internship training opportunities and addressing the gap in the number of training sites for students. Phase I of the Match is dedicated solely to Derner students applying through APPIC, and Phase II of the Match is opened up nationwide.

Psychology, at its heart, is about changing lives. That is the driving force of our work at Derner and has been since our inception.

Exceptional Hands-On Learning

As part of our practicum training , you will have the opportunity to gain clinical and research training in each of your four years of residence. The primary clinical training facility is the onsite Center for Psychological Services , under the supervision of the doctoral faculty. Then beginning in your second year, training is more extensive and includes externships in various off-campus inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings in urban and suburban clinics in Manhattan and Long Island.

Our doctorate in clinical psychology students take advantage of a number of affiliated externships and internships on Long Island and throughout the New York Metro Area including the following hospital systems:

• Mount Sinai

The training and mentorship I received at Derner allowed me to shape my identity as a clinician and an academic. It has provided me with the skills I needed to pursue an independent career and pursue my professional goals. I am thankful for the continued support and guidance of my graduate mentor and the faculty at Derner.

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Program Info

• Foundational academics in psychology, including advanced studies in diversity and difference
• Optional Child and Family Concentration
• Psychodynamics and psychoanalysis
• Cognitive theories and therapies
• Psychotherapy integration
• Cognitive and personality diagnostics
• Child and family theories and therapies
• Clinic and research labs
• Affiliated externships and internships

• Graduate Student Admissions

Application Requirements and Deadlines

The application deadline for fall admission to our clinical psychology doctoral program is December 1 .

Applicants for this program must have a completed undergraduate degree with prerequisite courses in:

• Introductory or general psychology
• Experimental psychology or research methods
• Abnormal psychology
• Developmental psychology

Applicants for this program should submit:

• Application submitted through PSYCAS and $60 Adelphi application fee
• Essay (please see prompt below)
• Letters of recommendation: two or three professional or academic references
• Official transcripts from all prior institutions
• TOEFL or IELTS scores for international candidates  if in the United States for less than three years
• GRE general exam scores required
• GRE Subject Test in Psychology is not required

Note that an interview may also be required.

PhD in Clinical Psychology Program Essay Prompt

In a statement of approximately 500-750 words (maximum 1,000 words) please address each prompt listed below within your essay.  

1.   Describe yourself in a way that would give us more of an opportunity to know you as a person.

2.   Why do you wish to study at the Derner School of Psychology?

3.   Please submit a brief statement describing how your personal and/or professional characteristics, experiences, and interests will advance our program’s deep commitment to diversity and social justice. You are invited to address whichever aspects of diversity or difference are most meaningful to you.  

4.   What are your career goals and reasons for undertaking doctoral studies?

Related Programs to Adelphi’s Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

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Applying to Clinical PhD Psychology Programs

How many applications to send.

Posted July 22, 2018

Now is the time that many individuals are going to be thinking about their future career . For many, their career journey includes graduate program in a clinical psychology PhD program. For these individuals, the next few months will involve carefully researching various programs to determine which programs might be best for them. One big question that will hit all of these potential applicants concerns the optimal number of applications to send.

It might seem like someone or some computer program has figured out the number of applications to send, but like most aspects of the application process for PhD clinical psychology programs, determining this number is complex. To begin, it is likely the case that most applicants know that getting accepted to a clinical psychology PhD program is very difficult. To illustrate this in concrete terms, we looked at the acceptance and matriculation rates of PhD programs that are members of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology. These rates are publicly available for these programs website under the link “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data”. We were able to locate data for 100 programs, and found that the acceptance rate was most often 4%, and the matriculation rate (those who actually enrolled) was most often 2%.

These extremely low values reflect the high standards of all clinical psychology PhD programs, the high number of applicants that apply to each program, and the low number of open slots at each program for an incoming class. One other point should be kept in mind related to the above points: The applicants to PhD programs are at the “highest level.” This means that if you are applying to a PhD program in clinical psychology, you really need to be a strong candidate. There is no hard and fast rule on what constitutes a strong candidate, but rest assured it is a combination of very high GRE scores (on all three components of the exam), a very high GPA in rigorous courses (forget those gym courses and basket-weaving courses!), research experience (remember that a PhD is a research degree), excellent letters of recommendation, and a great fit with a potential mentor.

Besides showing that it is really difficult to be accepted into a particular PhD program, the acceptance and matriculation (enrollment) rates raise other interesting issues that are important to the question of how many programs you should apply to. First, acceptance rates are higher than matriculation rates. This is because not every person who gets accepted to a clinical psychology PhD program ends up attending. For example, an applicant may realize that that being a clinician is not for them. This applicant’s slot is then open for another applicant. Second, applicants to clinical psychology PhD programs almost always apply to multiple programs. This leads to a lot of movement with regard to who gets accepted. Let’s take the example of a fictitious applicant Susan who applies to 15 clinical psychology PhD programs. She receives acceptances from five programs—Michigan State, UKentucky, UDenver, Alabama, and UTexas. Of course, she can only matriculate at one program—she picks UKentucky (not for the basketball!). Her matriculation decision means that the four other slots that were originally reserved for Susan must go unused or go to other applicants in the applicant pool, who may or may not enroll at each of the remaining four programs.

Given the above information, we can now focus on how many programs you should consider applying to. Right up front we should note that there does not appear to be any publicly accessible data that shows the number of applications per clinical psychology PhD applicant. This is different than other types of post-graduate applicants, where data is available on the number of applications per applicant for medical program (16 applications) and law program (6 applications).

Nonetheless, there is some guidance from the Internet on determining how many programs an applicant should apply to:

1) Although neither the American Psychological Association (APA) nor one of the most widely cited websites about applying to clinical psychology graduate program (“Mitch’s Guide”) recommends a specific number, these resources (and others) discuss applications in terms of “fit”. That is, an applicant should apply to programs where there is a fit between a student’s credentials and the characteristics of a particular program, including location, training emphasis, and potential mentor(s).

2) Some sites offer more specific recommendations. These sites discuss applying to different levels of programs. These types are typically defined based on the GPA and GRE data listed in a program’s link to Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data. At the top level are “Dream” or “Reach” programs (programs where your credentials are lower than the data), “Match” programs (programs where your credentials match the data for that program), and “Safety” or “Back-up” programs (programs where your credentials exceed the data). Sites recommending that you apply based on level of program will typically argue that an applicant should apply to perhaps two or three at each level.

3) Some Internet sites offer recommendations on how many programs to apply without mentioning level of program. These sites recommend varying numbers, often as high as 10-20 programs.

The lack of clarity on the number of applications to clinical psychology PhD programs means you may have to adjust your thinking as you move forward with your plans to apply to clinical psychology PhD programs. You will have to decide whether applying to different levels makes sense for you. While some students may need to use the levels approach because of specific gaps in their credentials, others may have a record so strong that the levels approach does not really apply to them—these students are competitive at all programs.

In addition, if you are a highly competitive applicant, it is probably worth you increasing your number of applications. Figuring out additional programs to apply to will involve more work, and it might involve considering multiple research areas you are willing to pursue, but it will likely increase your overall chances to be accepted to a program. You must always keep in mind that your chances of being accepted anywhere is still a function of your credentials, the competition (always an unknown), and what programs are considering. Moreover, each application has an application fee, and takes time and effort to complete. Therefore, you should probably only apply to those programs that you feel you would be willing to attend. With all of the above in mind, good luck as you move forward with your applications!

Please note that the comments of Dr. Golding and the others who post on this blog express their own opinion and not that of the University of Kentucky.

Check out career possibilities for psychology majors at scoutiescareersinpsychology.org

Learn tips to succeed in college at beginnersguidetocollegesuccess.com

Jonathan Golding, Ph.D. , is a professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky. Anne Lippert, Ph.D. , is a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Kentucky.

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PhD in Clinical Psychology

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Program Overview

Please see also:

• Clinical Doctoral Student Handbook (PDF)
• Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data

Licensure Information

Please see details at Consumer Disclosure Information .

The clinical psychology doctoral program at American University aims to prepare students for licensure in many states. Graduating from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited institution with a doctoral degree is often one of the main requirements for licensure in most states, and our program has been fully and continuously accredited by the APA since 1972. However, most states have other requirements for licensure (e.g., predoctoral internship, postdoctoral fellowship, particular scores on the EPPP licensing exam). This disclosure focuses solely on predoctoral courses needed to qualify for licensure as a psychologist. Graduates of AU’s clinical psychology program have successfully obtained licensure in many states.

The Clinical Psychology PhD program is committed to educating students in clinical science with rigorous training in both research and applied clinical work. Our program will provide you with the skills you need for a successful career in academia, research, or clinical practice. Fully accredited by the American Psychological Association Committee on Accreditation since 1972, our doctoral program reflects the scientist-practitioner model of training.

Excellence in Research and Clinical Training

The 72-credit PhD program is designed to provide students with a rigorous classroom education, innovative research opportunities, and exciting and diverse clinical experiences. With faculty guidance and mentorship, students complete a master's thesis, a doctoral dissertation, and one tool of research. Students engage in four year-long practicum experiences. In the first year, students learn humanistic and psychodynamic techniques in the American University Counseling Center. In later years, students learn and practice behavioral and cognitive techniques in the department's James J. Gray Psychotherapy Training Clinic and the Clinic for Youth Anxiety & Related Disorders. Additionally, students complete multiple externships in DC area hospitals, mental health centers, and counseling centers and a one-year internship.

This program takes five to six years of full-time study to complete. Part-time study is not available. See all degree requirements .

At AU, a mentorship model of training will allow you to work closely with a research supervisor throughout the program. You and this faculty mentor will collaborate on research projects and design your master's thesis and dissertation project. Our faculty members maintain productive research labs and mentor graduate students in research design and methodology. Faculty research interests include affective and motivational processes in depression, anxiety disorders (in children and adults), stress and emotion regulation, parenting, minority mental health, trichotillomania, cognitive assessment and therapy, smoking, borderline personality disorder, drug expectancies, personalization of psychotherapy. Faculty research programs offer a mix of applied and basic research opportunities.

Diverse Opportunities In The Nation's Capital

Home to numerous world-class research and clinical institutions, the DC area offers access to an extraordinary array of professional and intellectual opportunities. The clinical program at AU has fostered connections at a wide range of externship sites including the DC and Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, National Institute of Health, Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital, National Children’s Medical Center, private practices, and college counseling centers at nearby universities. Many of our students make lasting connections in the DC area, and are well positioned to find post-doctoral employment in or around the city. There is a rich diversity in DC, so students work with individuals and families from many different backgrounds.

The PhD is your path to career success

At AU, we have a record of placing our clinical psychology PhDs in successful careers at respected institutions. Our students graduate fully prepared for careers in academia, research, and clinical settings. For example, graduates of our program hold tenure-track positions at St. John's University, Williams College, LaFayette College, the University of Cincinnati, and Goucher College.

We are proud of the research and clinical accomplishments of our students and alumni. AU PhDs have conducted research in prominent departments of psychiatry, including Brown University, Ohio State University, and the University of Virginia. Our alumni work in a variety of clinical settings in the DC area and across the country, including Johns Hopkins University, the National Institutes of Health, the New York Presbyterian-University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell, Chestnut Health System of Illinois, Children's National Medical Center, and the District of Columbia VA Medical Center.

News & Notes

More News & Notes

• Alice Coyne  was named the 2024 recipient of the  Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy Early Career Award  in recognition of “accomplishment and achievement related to psychotherapy theory, practice, research, or training.”

AU’s Gray Psychotherapy Training Clinic Offers Low-Fee Psychotherapy

To the Point: The Fentanyl Crisis, Why Now, Why So Deadly?

Alum spotlight, martha falkenstein, cas/phd '16.

Clinical Psychology

I benefitted from being encouraged to pursue my goals — and work/life balance.

Mentored by Dr. David Haaga on treatment development and outcomes for trichotillomania, Martha externed at the DC VA, NIMH Psychiatry Consultation-Liason Service, the Behavior Therapy Center, and Johns Hopkins Medical Center. After a Southwest Consortium Doctoral Internship and post-doc at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, she now serves as Director of Research at the OCD Institute, supported by an NIMH Career Development Award. 

“I benefitted from being encouraged to pursue my goals — and work/life balance.”

Diana cox, cas/phd candidate.

AU’s quality of education prepared me well for the challenges of clinical work

Diana Cox’s research focuses on how experiences of stress affect physical and mental health outcomes, particularly in LGBTQ+ populations. As a member of the Stress and Emotion Lab, she has had the opportunity to design her own research studies and collaborate with other students on lab projects. She refined her clinical skills through externships at the Washington DC VA Medical Center, Neuropsychology Associates of Fairfax, and True North Therapy.

“AU’s quality of education prepared me well for the challenges of clinical work”

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Psychology, PhD (Clinical)

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Clinical psychology is the psychological specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive mental and behavioral health care for individuals and families; consultation to agencies and communities; training, education and supervision; and research-based practice.

Program Description

Degree Awarded: Psychology, PhD

There are multiple training models in Clinical Psychology (Scientist-Practitioner, Practitioner-Scholar, Clinical Science) and these models reflect the relative focus on research and clinical training. The Clinical Psychology Program at ASU adheres to the Clinical Science training model, which is the most research focused. Thus, although students in our program receive excellent clinical training, the focus is on producing Clinical Scientists who will work in setting that take full advantage of their research as well as clinical skills (e.g., Academia, Medical Centers, VA Hospitals). 

Our mission is to prepare students for professional careers in a variety of settings where they engage in research, teaching, or clinical supervision; and who make contributions to clinical science by disseminating research findings and scholarship. Within this general mission of providing high-quality, science-based training, we strive to prepare a significant number of graduates who establish careers in academia and research institutes where they have primary responsibilities for conducting research that advances clinical science and for teaching new generations of clinical scientists. 

The success of our students in meeting program goals is evident based on a) the high rate of students matching in APA accredited internships (40 of 40; 100% in the past 7 years), b) our recent graduates’ success in passing the national licensing exam (100% based on publicly available data from ASPPB), and the high percentage of our recent graduates who have obtained licensure (39 of 44; 88.6% of our recent graduates who are 5 or more years beyond graduation). Although we continue to emphasize high quality clinical training and strongly believe in the reciprocal nature of research and clinical training, we identify with the “Clinical Science” training model based on the long-term goals of our program which are primarily to train clinical scientists rather than individuals who elect to work as full-time practitioners. Outcomes of our alumni survey (students at least five years post-graduation) provide support for our success in achieving Clinical Science outcomes, with 40 of 44 (90.9%) making scholarly/research contributions since graduation from our program.

Our data on graduates from the past 10 years show diversity in their professional activities that is consistent with our clinical science training and special emphases that can be acquired at ASU.  Among those beyond postdoctoral training (n = 54), 40.7% are in academic settings, 33.3% are in clinical or combined research and clinical positions in medical schools/centers, VA hospitals, or other hospital settings, 22.2% are in other practice environments such as mental health centers or private practices, and 3.7% are in government settings (e.g., public health, DoD). These data suggest that our training leads to career trajectories that are consistent with the program’s philosophy and goals.

The Psychology PhD program in the clinical psychology training area is:

• based upon a clinical science model of training;
• fully accredited  by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS);
• a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science;
• a PhD (doctoral) program only;
• designed so that students who were admitted with a bachelor’s degree can finish the requirements in six years including a one-year, full-time internship;
• organized to allow students to begin practicum training in the program’s second year;
• best able to serve the educational needs of students with deep interests in empirical research; and
• highly competitive — in the last several years we have admitted between 3 and 10 new students per year from a pool of 200 to 300 applicants.

IMPORTANT: To be considered for this PhD program, you must complete the application through ASU's online portal AND submit your material through  Slideroom

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Student Handbook

Concentrations

Focus Areas

The Clinical Training Program has three areas of emphases in which students may elect to participate:  health psychology ,  child clinical psychology,  and  community/prevention .

Thus, the descriptions that follow are designed to give you an idea of the available curricular choices.

Child Clinical Area of Emphasis

The child clinical area of emphasis provides training in the etiology, assessment, treatment and prevention of childhood disorders. A major focus is on the prevention of child mental health problems among children and families under stress. Thus, most of our child clinical faculty also participate in our community-prevention area of emphasis. Table of Child Clinical Faculty. 

Health Psychology Area of Emphasis

Clinical students with interests centering on the interface of psychology and medicine may select Health Psychology as an area of emphasis. In our program, health psychology is broadly interpreted to encompass the theoretical, methodological, and/or procedural (treatment and prevention) contributions from contemporary psychology that bear upon the existing and emerging problems of modern medicine.  Table of Health Psychology Faculty.

Community/Prevention Area of Emphasis

We define the Community/Preventive area of emphasis to include theory, research methods, and interventions that are designed to prevent the occurrence of mental health, substance use or other problems, and to promote healthy adaptation in a range of social environments. Students study theoretical issues such as the influence of stress and coping, family processes, acculturation and cross-cultural issues, neighborhood influences, and economic hardship on the development of mental health or substance abuse problems. Students also become involved in the development, implementation, and evaluation of preventive interventions to promote healthy adaptation for children in a range of high-risk situations. Foci of preventive interventions include children of divorce, inner-city ethnic minority children, bereaved children, and school-based programs.  Table of Community/Prevention Clinical Faculty. 

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The Psychology Doctoral Program at Arizona State University embraces the University’s charter encouraging diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our program.  We strive to create a community that reflects and celebrates the diversity of society-at-large because we believe it is essential to attaining academic excellence, professional development, and personal growth. To that end, we are dedicated to training early career scientists from diverse backgrounds, and we encourage applications from students from backgrounds historically underrepresented in the sciences, including but not limited to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, first generation college students, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

Coursework for the doctoral program is to some extent, determined by APA requirements. For more detailed information about the program's curriculum and milestones or to see a sample schedule, students should view the current Clinical Student Handbook. Once admitted, we require students to be continuously enrolled full-time, excluding summer sessions, until all degree requirements have been met.

A minimum of 84 hours is required. 

Courses and electives

The coursework for each student is individualized and based upon the student's previous training, research goals and mentor. All students are required to complete 27 credit hours of core courses that cover the scientific and technical foundations of clinical psychology. Students will also choose elective courses that more closely align to their specific focus area. In order to satisfy program accreditation, students will take one course in biological bases of behavior, social bases of behavior, cognitive bases of behavior, affective bases of behavior and in human development. Additional requirements include two ATM courses are required which involve integrated science-professional training and are taught by departmental faculty in timely and specific clinical and community modalities.

At a Glance

• Location:  Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement:  No

Degree Requirements

The 84-hour program of study includes a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive, a prospectus and a dissertation. Prospective doctoral candidates should have a passion and interest in clinical psychology, have demonstrated research skills in a senior thesis, have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA.

Student Admissions, Outcomes & Other Data  

Accreditation Status

ASU's Public Disclosure on Licensure Statement

Admission Requirements

Our selection of new doctoral students is based on several factors:

• academic excellence;
• strong undergraduate preparation in psychology;
• experience in conducting psychological research;
• compatibility with research interests of our faculty;
• evidence of strong research skills; and
• personal characteristics that are suitable for teaching and the provision of psychological services to the public.

In addition to significant research experience, successful applicants should have an undergraduate grade point average of B+ or better and compelling letters of recommendation. Specific information about application procedures can be found on the  doctoral admissions  pages.

We also seek a balance of students who have interests in our three research emphases: child clinical, health, and community/prevention. It has been our experience that most of our students will choose one of the three specialty areas which represent domains of faculty interest as well as clinical or preventive specialties for which an employment demand now exists. However, specialization is not a program requirement. Some students might begin a particular emphasis but later decide to move in a different direction. 

Required Core Content (27 units)

Required Core Courses:  Courses covering the scientific and technical foundations of clinical psychology, as well as clinical practica include:

• PSY 530 Analysis of Variance (Intermediate Statistics)
• PSY 531 Multiple Regression
• PSY 573 Psychopathology
• PSY 578 Developmental Psychopathology (required for child emphasis only)
• PSY 600 Clinical Research Methods
• PSY 574/591  Psychotherapy or Child and Family Therapy
• PSY 780  Psychological Assessment or Assessment Advanced Treatment Methods (ATM)
• PSY 591 Clinical Interviewing and Ethics
• Practicum I and II 

Electives (6-27 units)

Electives:  Various courses, seminars, and practica of the students’ choosing are included in this category and are used to satisfy additional program requirements.

Required Accreditation Courses (6-27 credit hours)

In order to satisfy requirements for program accreditation, students are also required to take at least one course each in:

• Biological Bases of Behavior:  PSY 591 Psychopharmacology  or  PSY 591 Biological Bases of Behavior  or  PSY 591 Advanced Neurobiology of Cognition
• Social Bases of Behavior:   PSY 550 Advanced Social Psychology: Interpersonal Processes  or  PSY 551 Advanced Social Psychology: Intrapersonal Processes
• Cognitive Bases of Behavior:   PSY 535 Cognitive Processes  or  PSY 591 Embodied Cognition  or  PSY 541 Research in Cognitive Development.*
• Affective Bases of Behavior:   PSY 591 Emotions  or  PSY 542 Social Emotional Development*  or  PSY 591 Emotional Development*  or  PSY 591 Emotions, Stress and Health  or  PSY 598 Socio-emotional Development
• Human Development:  PSY 541 Research in Cognitive Development*  or  PSY 542 Social Emotional Development*  or  PSY 591 Emotional Development*  or  PSY 591 Children’s Peer Relationships  or  PSY 591Resilience Processes in Development  or  PSY 598 Developmental Transitions.

*PSY 542 and PSY 591 can only be used to either fulfill the Affective Bases of behavior requirement OR to fulfill the Human Development requirement. PSY 541 can only be used to fulfill the Cognitive Bases of behavior requirement OR the Human Development requirement.

• History and Systems:  PSY 591 History of Psychology  or  PSY 591 Clinical Issues Seminar: History and Systems of Psychology

Substantive Curriculum (6-27 credit hours)

Other Course Requirements:  Two ATM courses are required which involve integrated science-professional training and are taught by departmental faculty in timely and specific clinical and community modalities.

• PSY 780  All topics listed as ATMs in Psychology.  The Assessment ATM also meets the requirement for Psychological Assessment
• PSY 501  Supervised Teaching (can count for 1 of 2 ATMs)

Master's Thesis and Research (12 credit hours) - For Master's in passing

• PSY 592 - Master's Research (6 credit hours) Independent study in which a student, under the supervision of a faculty member, conducts research that is expected to lead to a specific project such as a thesis or dissertation, report, or publication. Assignments might include data collection, experimental work, data analysis, or preparation of a manuscript
• PSY 599 - Master's Thesis (6 credit hours) Supervised research focused on preparation of thesis, including literature review, research, data collection and analysis, and writing.

Dissertation and Research (18 credit hours)

• PSY 792 Dissertation Research (6 credit hours) Independent study in which a student, under the supervision of a faculty member, conducts research that is expected to lead to a specific project such as a dissertation, report, or publication. Assignments might include data collection, experimental work, data analysis, or preparation of a manuscript.
• PSY 799 Dissertation (12 Credit Hours) Supervised research focused on preparation of dissertation, including literature review, research, data collection and analysis, and writing.

Sample Schedule: General

Listed below is a sample schedule. Note that, although we outline a five-year sequence in which the degree can be completed, most students finish the degree in six years including internship.

Sample Schedule: Clinical Child Emphasis

SAMPLE SCHEDULE:  CHILD CLINICAL EMPHASIS

Listed below is a sample schedule for students who chose a child clinical emphasis. Note that, although we outline a five-year sequence in which the degree can be completed, most students finish the degree in six years including internship.

Financial Support

The Department of Psychology typically pays ASU tuition for full-time doctoral students with 20 hour-per-week graduate teaching or research assistantships. Tuition and fee information can be found on the ASU's  general tuition webpage .

An appointment as a 50% Graduate Teaching Assistant (TA) for the 2024-2025 academic year (9-month TA) provides financial support in the form of a stipend in the amount of $24,586 for the academic year.

Fellowships and awards

Doctoral students are encouraged to apply for fellowships through the National Institutes of Health  National Research Service Award  program and through the National Science Foundation's  Graduate Research Fellowship Program . Other funding opportunities exist within specific areas of study and doctoral students should explore these possibilities with their faculty advisor/mentor.

In addition to government and external organizational fellowships, the Department of Psychology currently offers  graduate scholar awards  of $1,500 each to two students in any psychology doctoral program area in any year of study. Made possible by the generous donations of department faculty and others, these awards are intended to recognize the accomplishments of students who are demonstrating overall excellence in the psychology doctoral program. Excellence will be judged with respect to contributions to psychological science; and/or the teaching of psychology; and/or community involvement reflecting application of psychological knowledge. The deadline for all application materials, including a letter of support from a psychology faculty member, is typically mid-March.

Two other fellowship awards are also available to the department's doctoral students through endowed scholarships: The Robert B. Cialdini Dissertation Project Prize and the Martha E. Bernal Memorial Scholarship Award Endowment. Doctoral students in the developmental psychology and social psychology may similarly apply for endowed fellowships within their program areas.

Financial aid

There is no financial aid available through the department although such aid is available through the ASU Financial Aid and Scholarship Services; visit their  site  to explore financial aid opportunities.

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Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

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SDSU / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology

About the Program

The program provides outstanding education and training to scientifically oriented research professionals who will make significant contributions to clinical psychology in their areas of specialization. The program combines the scholarly resources and offerings from the Department of Psychology in SDSU’s College of Sciences and the Department of Psychiatry in UC San Diego’s School of Medicine.

As a clinical science program, we emphasize integrating research and practice in training, activities, and experience, allowing students to participate in clinical research activities throughout the program. The development of research skills and attitudes is the foundation of training; clinical psychologists will have duties encompassing teaching, research, diagnosis, treatment, consultation, and program evaluation and design, including applying research skills and knowledge to various areas and settings. Our doctoral program enables students to be at the forefront of developments and applications in clinical psychology.

The program includes an initial two-year core curriculum of formal instruction followed by additional experience/instruction in the student’s chosen major area of study. The SDSU/UC San Diego JDP in Clinical Psychology curriculum is based on a twelve-month academic year. Students typically complete the program within five to six years, including an American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited internship.

Completion of the core curriculum ensures that all students have a common background in:

• Empirical psychology (biological, cognitive, affective, developmental, and social bases of behavior).
• Conceptualizations of psychopathology.
• Theory and techniques of psychological assessment.
• Therapeutic interventions and therapeutic skills.
• Experimental design and statistics.

Clinical activities, integrated with formal instruction, begin in the second year. Students will acquire higher clinical proficiency through practicum placements at nearly 30 training sites supervised by SDSU/UC San Diego joint-doctoral faculty representing research and clinical expertise in virtually every topic relevant to clinical psychology.

Major Areas of Study:

Specialized training is conducted through seminars, tutorials, and extensive research and clinical experience under faculty supervision. The APA-accredited clinical internship typically occurs in the fifth or sixth year. Whenever possible, clinical practica and therapeutic activities are coordinated with the student’s progression through courses and research activities. Summers are utilized to offer more concentrated research and clinical training.

For more information about the three areas, visit our Major Areas of Study page.

Program History

The SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology began in 1985, was first accredited by APA in 1990, and has been reaccredited consistently since then. Since 1949 and 1964, SDSU and UC San Diego, respectively, have been regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission . In addition, the School of Medicine at UC San Diego is accredited by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) .

The program emphasizes and appreciates broadly defined human diversity and offers extensive opportunities for students to become involved in research and clinical activities focused on diverse, underserved populations.

Recently, rankings calculated by the National Research Council (NRC) placed the SDSU/UC San Diego joint doctoral program among the top five psychology programs in the country, regardless of whether they were clinical or nonclinical. Similar rankings have been reported by Academic Analytics in 2010 and by Stewart, Roberts, and Roy (2007).

This program is a good-standing member of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology (CUDCP), the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (APCS), the Council of Clinical Health Psychology Training Programs (CCHPTP), and the Association of Psychology Training Clinics (APTC). These organizations strive to provide quality education and training at the doctoral level, ensuring the doctoral program stays abreast of changes and developments in the field. 

Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 E-mail: [email protected]

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Clinical and Non-clinical Psychology PhD Programs: What’s The Difference?

Authored By: Michelle Ackerman, PhD

Many people, including students of psychology, frequently get confused about the different “types” of psychology and psychologists that exist. Not all jobs in psychology require a clinical license, which is one of the main differences between clinical and non-clinical Psychology PhD programs. I got my PhD from a non-clinical PhD program, and it has confused friends, family, and strangers about what it is that I actually do. I often tell people that I’m a “lab coat and clipboard” psychologist to try and explain my focus on research and teaching. That is, of course, an oversimplification. Many clinical PhD holders work in research or teaching, and many non-clinical PhD holders work in helping professions, but it has been an easy way for me to explain to people that having a PhD in psychology is not the same thing as having a clinical practice and seeing clients.

What is a clinical PhD program in psychology?

Clinical PhD programs usually focus on licensure eligibility. Students in clinical psychology programs participate in face-to-face residencies and may need to complete supervised field training to qualify for state licensure after graduation. If your goal is to work in a job or career where state licensure to practice psychology is required, then a clinical PhD program in psychology would be the right place for you. However, there are many positions where you might work directly with people or within the mental health field that do not require state certification. To figure out the right path for you, you will have to do some legwork. Contact state and national psychology organizations to request information about licensing requirements. You can call your state licensing board and speak with an advisor about what jobs and positions require licensure. You can even browse through local job listings to see what their requirements are.

What is a non-clinical PhD program in psychology?

A non-clinical PhD program usually focuses on the knowledge of psychology without the focus of specifically working with clients. Usually, non-clinical PhD programs focus on information rather than practice – how the mind works, how humans develop throughout their lives, or even how changing conditions (in the environment, in a community, or in a family) can impact different populations. Non-clinical programs also focus on research skills – how to conduct research that contributes to the body of knowledge about psychology.

If you need a clinical PhD in psychology to be a clinician, what can you do as a non-clinical PhD in psychology? Individuals with a PhD in Psychology work in a wide variety of career fields. Recent research suggests 50% of those with a psychology PhD reported working as either a clinical psychologist or psychology professor. However, the other 50% of respondents reported working as counselors, top-level managers and administrators, training and labor relations specialists, and managers in the medical and health services fields (Pappas & Samm, 2021). The National Science Foundation (2021) reported that over the past 10 years, those with a doctorate in psychology entering business or industry has increased by 10%. This information just demonstrates that the skills you learn in a PhD psychology program – clinical or non-clinical – are valuable in many different industries.

Develop New Skills

There are a surprising number of skills that you will develop as you gain your PhD in psychology, including communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, management, leadership, and teamwork. A recent article in the American Psychological Association’s Monitor on Psychology (Pappas & Stamm, 2021) reported that many job postings during the pandemic (March-July, 2020) specifically listed these skills: 84% of the job posting listed at least one of those skills, and 30% listed 2 or more.

Some organizations will be interested in your knowledge and expertise a psychologist, while others might be more focused on transferable skills. For example, using your experience conducting independent research during your dissertation to help an organization analyze data to better understand how consumers use their organization’s website

The online psychology PhD program at National University is a non-clinical program

Consider what your goals are in obtaining your PhD, then decide which program best aligns with those goals. Feel free to reach out to professors, professionals in the field you are interested in, as well as organizations of interest. You will need to do some soul-searching and some research, but these efforts will help you choose the best path toward realizing your goals

National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, National Science Foundation. (2021). Doctorate Recipients from U.S. Universities: 2020. NSF 22-300. Alexandria, VA. Available at https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf22300/ .

Pappas, S. & Stamm, K. (2021). Psychologists’ skills are in great demand. Monitor on Psychology, 52(1), 56-57. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2021/01/trends-psychologists-skills

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Offering master’s and doctoral degrees, UTulsa’s Clinical Psychology Department trains students to do exactly what psychologists in modern society do: ethically apply knowledge of psychology along with skills to handle challenging clinical cases. Formal coursework covers core areas such as psychology, research methods, personality, psychopathology, principles of psychological assessment and intervention, and professional issues in clinical psychology. The program is based upon the scientist-practitioner model: Psychological practice is the application of the theory, methods, and results of scientific psychology to clinical problems.

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• Students gain experience through practicums in UTulsa’s behavioral health community health centers, prisons, hospitals, and private practice groups.
• Job opportunities include roles in agencies, organizations, health care, consulting, and academia. Alumni employers include Stanford University, Harvard University, U.S. Army, Cedars-Sinai, and many others.

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What Are Common Topics In (DClinPsy) Clinical Psychology Doctorate Interviews?

Saul McLeod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul McLeod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Prepare for common interview themes, not specific questions.

While it might be tempting to try and predict exact interview questions, we caution against this approach.

Clinical psychology (DClinPsy) interviews are designed to assess your potential and suitability for the field, not to test your ability to provide “correct” answers.

Instead, focus on common topical themes that underpin many clinical psychology interview questions.

These themes include the applicant’s understanding of the NHS, their knowledge of clinical interventions and relevant research, their experience in multidisciplinary teams, and their reflections on their own personal and professional development.

By thoroughly reflecting on these themes and preparing to discuss them in the context of their own experiences, applicants can demonstrate a deeper understanding of the field and their place within it.

Common topics discussed in clinical psychology interviews include:

NHS Structure & Values

Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the National Health Service (NHS) and its impact on clinical psychology. Be prepared to discuss current healthcare policies, service delivery challenges, and your awareness of relevant debates within the field.

Simply listing current issues is not enough.

Applicants should be prepared to discuss how these issues shape their own thinking about mental health services and the role of psychology within the NHS.

For example:

• Changes in mental health structure (interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being)
• Changes in the NHS and how they might affect the role of a clinical psychologist
• Changes in NHS funding
• The impact of privatization within the NHS
• Role of technology

This goes beyond simply listing topics like privatization. It involves articulating how these issues impact the role of a clinical psychologist.

The role of a clinical psychologist

Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the role of a clinical psychologist and how your skills and experiences align with this role.

Interviewers are not seeking candidates who have mastered every type of therapy or worked with every client group. Instead, they are interested in individuals who demonstrate potential for growth and development within the field.

Privatization

For instance, simply stating “privatization is a current issue” lacks depth.

Instead, consider discussing how the increasing privatization of mental health services might influence a clinical psychologist’s referral pathways, treatment options, and professional autonomy.

You could also explore the ethical dilemmas this trend might pose for practitioners committed to equitable access to care.

NHS funding

When discussing changes in NHS funding, avoid generic statements and focus on the practical implications for clinical psychologists.

For instance, you could discuss how funding cuts might impact service provision, waiting times, and the availability of resources for clients with specific needs.

Additionally, you could explore how these challenges might influence your role in advocating for clients’ rights and navigating ethical dilemmas related to resource allocation.

NHS policies

Familiarizing yourself with relevant NHS policies influencing clinical psychology is crucial.

This might involve understanding local delivery plans, equality and diversity initiatives, and other policy drivers shaping mental health service delivery.

• Ethics: Ethical dilemmas and scenarios are common topics in clinical psychology interviews, designed to assess your ethical reasoning and decision-making skills during patient interactions. Show respect for individual autonomy and preferences when making decisions about treatment options like medication management, where patient perspectives are paramount.
• Formulating informed opinions about the future of the NHS: Articulating a vision for how clinical psychology can contribute to a more equitable and effective NHS.
• Critiquing existing systems and policies: Demonstrating an ability to engage in critical thinking about the NHS’s strengths and weaknesses, particularly as they relate to mental health provision.
• Service issues: Be prepared to discuss current service issues and how clinical psychology can address them. This might involve demonstrating awareness of waiting times, access to services, and the need for innovative service delivery models.
• Local delivery plans: These plans outline how local NHS organizations intend to meet the needs of their population. Familiarizing oneself with these plans demonstrates an understanding of local priorities, service gaps, and opportunities for innovation within a specific geographical area.
• Increased emphasis on evidence-based practice: The NHS prioritizes interventions supported by research evidence. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of evidence-based practice and how they would ensure their clinical work aligns with current research findings.

Clinical Experience

Showcase a well-rounded understanding of clinical practice, acquired through diverse experiences that highlight your commitment to the field and readiness for the challenges of a clinical psychology doctorate program.

This allows interviewers to assess:

• How applicants have been shaped by their clinical experiences
• How they have handled difficult situations
• Experience in multidisciplinary teams
• Their ability to reflect on their experiences and demonstrate growth and learning
• Ethical considerations and your approach to risk assessment and management

What constitutes clinical experience?

Clinical experience refers to hands-on involvement in settings where you directly interact with patients facing mental health challenges. This experience should provide insights into the realities of clinical practice and demonstrate your commitment to working in a patient-facing role within the mental health field.

Clinical experience encompasses a broad spectrum of roles and settings, extending beyond the conventional pathway of assistant psychologist (AP) positions. While an AP role is valuable, it is not the sole determinant of a strong application.

Here are some examples of what constitutes relevant clinical experience:

• Support worker
• Healthcare assistant (HCA)
• Psychological wellbeing practitioner (PWP)
• Assistant psychologist (AP)
• Roles in mental health charities, such as Samaritans or Mind
• Research assistant positions: While primarily research-focused, these positions can offer valuable clinical experience if they involve direct patient contact.
• Lived experience: Having personal experience with mental health difficulties can provide unique insights. However, it’s crucial to reflect on how this experience might influence your work and to address any potential challenges in a professional manner.
• S ituation – Describe the situation you were in.
• T ask – Explain the task you had to complete.
• A ction – Describe the specific actions you took to complete the task.
• R esult – Close with the results of your efforts.

Demonstrate learning from clinical experiences

It is important to demonstrate what you’ve learned from your experiences and how they’ve shaped you as a potential clinician.

It’s not merely about listing roles but about articulating the skills and insights gained. This can include:

• Applying psychological frameworks
• Understanding different therapeutic approaches, such as CBT
• Gaining experience in risk assessment and management
• Working within multidisciplinary teams (MDTs)
• Reflecting on ethical dilemmas and professional values

When discussing clinical experiences, highlight the importance of reflection, not just description.

Instead of merely recounting what you did, focus on what you learned from challenging situations, how you navigated ethical dilemmas, and how these experiences contributed to your professional development.

For instance, you could discuss when your theoretical assumptions were challenged, how you adapted your approach, and the insights gained about your biases or limitations.

Reflective journals can strengthen interview performance

A reflective journal is highly recommended for aspiring clinical psychologists because it helps develop and demonstrate key skills and qualities valued in the field.

Regularly documenting experiences and analyzing them through a reflective lens helps aspiring psychologists learn from their encounters, both positive and challenging.

This process accelerates professional development and cultivates a mindset of continuous improvement, which is highly desirable in the field.

• While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to reflection, sources suggest exploring different reflective models, such as Gibbs’ model or Rolfe’s model , to find a framework that resonates with the individual. These models provide a structured approach to guide the reflective process and ensure comprehensiveness
• Reading reflective essays or listening to experienced clinicians discuss their practice to gain a deeper understanding of how reflection manifests in the field. Books like “ Surviving Clinical Psychology ” can provide valuable insights and examples to inspire aspiring psychologists in their own reflective writing

When asked about past experiences, challenges, or their motivations for pursuing clinical psychology, applicants with well-maintained reflective journals can draw on specific examples and demonstrate their capacity for self-awareness and growth.

Psychological Models

While not a memory test, interviewers expect applicants to be able to demonstrate an understanding of psychological models and how they can be applied to clinical practice.

• The most common model used, and therefore the easiest to practice with is CBT .
• Familiarity with risk assessment and management is also important.

While knowing specific models is important, interviewers are more interested in your ability to apply theoretical understanding to practice.

Rather than memorizing models, focus on demonstrating how you would use your knowledge to formulate a client’s difficulties, select appropriate interventions, and tailor your approach based on individual needs and preferences.

• Focus on the “why” and “how” of models: Instead of simply listing the principles of a model, applicants should be prepared to explain why they find certain models compelling, how they have used those models in their clinical work, and how their understanding of those models has evolved.
• Highlight experiences that showcase model application: Applicants should reflect on their clinical experiences and identify situations where they effectively applied psychological models. When discussing these experiences, they should clearly outline the model used, the rationale for its application, and the outcomes observed.
• Articulate a coherent approach to model selection: Applicants should be prepared to discuss the factors they consider when choosing a model, such as the client’s presenting issues, their therapeutic goals, and the evidence base for different interventions.
• Acknowledge the limitations of a purely theoretical approach: Applicants should be prepared to discuss the challenges of applying models in real-world settings and how they navigate the complexities of clinical work.

Research Knowledge & Experience

Be prepared to discuss your research background, analyze research papers, and articulate your research interests. Interviewers may also assess your understanding of research methodologies and statistical concepts.

Interviewers may ask applicants to discuss:

• Research they have conducted
• Research papers they have read
• Research ideas they have

When discussing research, highlight your ability to think critically and apply research methodologies.

Instead of simply summarizing studies, articulate what you found interesting, any methodological limitations, and how the findings might inform your clinical practice.

How can research experience benefit an interviewee?

Research experience can significantly benefit an applicant to a clinical psychology doctorate program, as it highlights key competencies desired in aspiring clinicians.

It is crucial for applicants to articulate how their research experience has shaped their clinical perspective and prepared them for the demands of a doctorate program.

Simply listing research activities is insufficient; instead, interviewees should focus on the transferable skills acquired, the insights gained, and the overall impact of these experiences on their professional development.

• Strengthens research skills: Engaging in research, whether through undergraduate projects, master’s theses, or research assistant positions, equips applicants with practical skills in research methodologies, data analysis, and interpretation. This hands-on experience enables them to confidently discuss research concepts during interviews and demonstrate their ability to apply these skills in a clinical setting.
• Demonstrates critical thinking: The ability to critically evaluate research, identify methodological strengths and weaknesses, and propose alternative approaches is highly valued in clinical psychology. Research experience provides opportunities to hone these critical thinking skills, which are essential for evidence-based practice.
• Showcases intellectual curiosity: Applicants with research experience demonstrate a genuine interest in advancing knowledge within the field. This intellectual curiosity is appealing to doctorate programs as it suggests a commitment to lifelong learning and a desire to contribute to the scientific foundations of clinical psychology.

Personal Qualities & Self-Reflection

Interviewers are particularly interested in candidates who can articulate their growth and learning from challenging situations.

They value individuals who can demonstrate self-awareness, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Clinical psychology interviews often involve questions about personal strengths and weaknesses, values, and self-care practices. It’s important to be able to articulate:

• Your motivations for pursuing clinical psychology
• How your personal qualities align with the values of the profession
• Your capacity for self-reflection and personal growth
• Reflections on their own personal and professional development
• Your strengths and weaknesses
• How you manage stress and prioritize your well-being (a crucial aspect of clinical practice)

Connecting personal qualities to clinical practice

Applicant must reflect on how their personal strengths, values, and even perceived weaknesses might influence their clinical work.

This self-awareness is seen as crucial for both effective client interaction and for navigating the challenges of a demanding profession. For instance, an applicant might be asked to reflect on how their personal experiences with diversity might shape their approach to working with a diverse clientele.

It is crucial for aspiring clinicians to critically examine how their own experiences might influence their work, ensuring they can navigate potential triggers and power dynamics appropriately.

This includes engaging in personal therapy and working towards resolving personal issues to prevent them from hindering their professional practice.

Focus on linking your personal qualities to the profession’s values and the specific competencies required of a clinical psychologist.

For example, instead of simply stating you are “empathetic,” provide a concrete example demonstrating this quality in action and how it contributes to your effectiveness as a clinician.

Self-Reflection

Success in clinical psychology interviews hinges not just on knowledge, but also on demonstrating strong self-reflection skills.

Applicants who can articulate their personal journey of growth, connect their experiences to their professional development, and demonstrate an openness to continuous learning are more likely to make a favorable impression.

Strategies for showcasing self-reflection:

Interviewees should go beyond describing what they did and articulate what they learned, how they might approach a situation differently next time, and how specific experiences shaped their professional development.

This demonstration of reflection offers interviewers insight into an applicant’s ability to learn and grow, qualities essential for clinical practice.

• The STAR Model: This model, standing for Situation, Task, Action, and Reflection, provides a structured approach to discussing experiences. It encourages concise and coherent answers that highlight reflection.
• Context, Content, Reflection: A similar framework, focusing on Context (of the experience), Content (answering the question), and Reflection, helps applicants organize their thoughts and deliver impactful responses.

Tell me about yourself

When asked “Tell me about yourself” in a clinical psychology interview, it’s crucial to provide a response that goes beyond a simple recitation of your resume.

Interviewers use this question to gain a more holistic understanding of who you are as a person and how your unique experiences and qualities have prepared you for the demanding and rewarding journey of becoming a clinical psychologist.

One helpful approach is to imagine yourself in a relaxed setting, like a pub, where a friend asks about your aspirations to become a clinical psychologist. This analogy emphasizes the importance of authenticity and ease in your response.

The interviewers want to hear your genuine voice, your passion for the field, and the experiences that have shaped your desire to pursue this career path.

Remember, the goal is to present a genuine and thoughtful representation of who you are, highlighting your unique strengths, experiences, and passion for clinical psychology.

By approaching this question with authenticity and self-awareness, you can leave a lasting impression on the interviewers and demonstrate your potential to thrive in the field.

Current Issues Impacting Clinical Practice

Interviewers assess your awareness and engagement with current issues. Therefore, it’s crucial to stay informed about relevant policies, debates, and developments within the field and demonstrate your ability to think critically about their implications for clinical practice.

Demonstrating a nuanced understanding of these current issues during clinical psychology interviews, going beyond simply listing challenges to critically analyzing their implications for practice.

Aspiring clinicians should be prepared to discuss how these issues intersect with their personal values, career aspirations, and understanding of the evolving role of clinical psychology within the NHS.

Anti-racism work and diversity

Understanding how systemic racism and lack of diversity affect mental health service provision is crucial.

This includes demonstrating an awareness of systemic barriers, a commitment to anti-racism work, and an ability to reflect on how their own identities and experiences shape their approach to clinical practice.

Diversity in this context encompasses not only race and ethnicity, but also factors such as disability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background.

A lack of diversity among practitioners is identified as a significant concern within the field. This lack of representation has contributed to a perception that clinical psychology is “geared to white middle-class people,” which can create additional stress for trainees from minority and marginalized groups.

Interviewees are encouraged to engage in critical self-reflection to identify their own biases and assumptions, particularly as they relate to working with diverse populations. This process of examining one’s privilege is deemed essential for ethical practice.

Anti-racism

Simply increasing diversity is not enough. Clinical psychology training programs must also prioritize anti-racism work, which involves actively dismantling racist structures and practices within the field itself. This includes critically examining:

• Curriculum content: Ensuring that training materials and case studies reflect the experiences of diverse populations.
• Teaching practices: Creating inclusive learning environments that value and incorporate diverse perspectives.
• Placement allocation: Addressing potential biases in placement assignments that may disadvantage trainees from certain backgrounds.
• Faculty and staff diversity: Increasing representation from marginalized groups among those who train and mentor future clinicians.

Climate anxiety

This trending area of concern highlights the need for clinicians to be aware of the psychological impact of climate change.

This highlights the need for clinicians to be well-informed about this issue to engage in modern discussions and address the psychological impact of climate change effectively.

Lived experience in clinical practice

Recognizing the value of lived experience in shaping mental health services is increasingly important.

Aspiring clinicians should be prepared to encounter a diverse range of experiences and perspectives from their patients, including those shaped by factors like race, culture, and personal struggles.

Growing Role of IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies)

IAPT is a national program aimed at increasing access to evidence-based psychological therapies for common mental health problems.

Understanding the role of Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) and its potential benefits and drawbacks is relevant.

For example, you could discuss how the increasing emphasis on IAPT shapes referral pathways and treatment options.

For example, you could discuss the potential benefits of IAPT in increasing access to evidence-based treatments for common mental health difficulties while also acknowledging the model’s limitations in addressing complex mental health needs that might require more specialist interventions.

Ethical considerations and power dynamics

Interviewees are encouraged to critically examine their own biases and assumptions, recognizing how social inequalities and systemic barriers can influence mental health presentations and access to care.

This critical lens extends to questioning traditional power structures within clinical settings, advocating for greater service user involvement in treatment planning and decision-making.

Who might applicants encounter at an interview?

It is important to note that the specific composition of interview panels may vary depending on the institution and the stage of the selection process. Applicants should review the information provided by each program to understand the format of their interviews and the types of individuals they may encounter.

At an interview for a Clinical Psychology Doctorate program, applicants may encounter a variety of individuals, typically including:

• Members of the course staff: This may include professors, lecturers, or other academic staff involved in the program.
• Local psychologists: These individuals are typically practicing clinicians from the area where the training program is located. Their presence on the panel provides a perspective on the specific challenges and opportunities of working in that region.
• Service user representatives or experts by experience: Recognizing the importance of service user perspectives, many courses include individuals with lived experience of mental health services on their interview panels. These representatives offer valuable insights into the needs and experiences of the client population.
• Current trainees (often third years): In some cases, senior trainees from the program may be involved in the interview process. This allows applicants to gain insights from students who have recently navigated the program’s demands and can offer a unique perspective on the training experience.

In addition to these common panel members, some institutions may also include:

• Service users and carers: This further emphasizes the commitment to incorporating diverse perspectives into the selection process.
• Individuals involved in specific aspects of the selection process : Applicants may encounter administrative staff responsible for logistics, individuals facilitating group tasks, or those conducting research or clinical vignettes.

What should I wear to the interview?

When deciding what to wear to a Clinical Psychology Doctorate interview, it is important to present oneself professionally while remaining authentic to one’s own identity.

Ultimately, the goal is to present yourself as a capable, confident, and authentic individual who is genuinely interested in the program and the profession. Choosing attire that balances professionalism with your own personal style is key.

• Professionalism is key: Dress in a way that demonstrates respect for the interviewers and the profession, aiming for “smart casual” or slightly more formal attire.
• Comfort and authenticity: While dressing professionally, it is crucial to also feel comfortable and confident in your attire. Interviewers are interested in getting to know the real you, so choose clothing that reflects your personality and allows you to feel at ease.
• Context is important: Consider the specific context of the interview and the program to which you are applying. Researching the program’s culture and observing the attire of current clinicians or trainees might offer helpful cues.

Reflect on experiences to build interview stories

Interviewers look for candidates who can articulate what they have learned from their experiences, how they have grown, and how these experiences have shaped their understanding of the field.

Thinking about experiences in terms of context, content, and reflection can be a helpful framework.

This reflective practice not only helps structure interview answers but also allows applicants to demonstrate the capacity for self-awareness and growth that are essential qualities of a clinical psychologist.

Practice for different interview styles

Clinical psychology interviews can vary greatly in format, often including individual interviews (focused on clinical and research experience), service user panels, and group tasks. It’s beneficial to practice in settings that simulate these diverse formats.

For example, while practicing with colleagues can be helpful, seeking mock interviews with individuals outside one’s immediate circle can provide a more realistic interview experience.

This practice allows individuals to familiarize themselves with the structure and flow of different interview styles, reducing anxiety and enhancing their ability to think on their feet.

Caution against over-preparation and rote learning

While practicing responses to common questions can be helpful, striking a balance is crucial.

Excessive rehearsal can make your responses sound scripted and inauthentic.

Instead, focus on reflecting on your experiences, clarifying your motivations for pursuing clinical psychology, and developing a flexible interview approach.

British Psychological Society. (2023). Alternative handbook 2023: Postgraduate training courses in clinical psychology. https://explore.bps.org.uk/binary/bpsworks/ce5d8f58a20ecf32/fcd8f2a79b191dce9493d5d99041b36b99db8e35b67f53a786fbc5941068eb56/prelims.pdf

Hui, A. (2020, September 21). DClinPsy Applications & Interviews – Frequently Asked Questions [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/HGbYxccVQgY

Murphy, D. (2019, March 24). Success in Clinical Psychology Interviews – Part 1: Preparing for interviews [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/HwlEVev7TSs

Murphy, D. (2019, March 25). Success in Clinical Psychology Interviews: Part 2 – Managing the Interview Day [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/09E_dkZfxyE

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We offer an outstanding research-oriented Ph.D. program in the following areas:

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• Online Courses /

9 Best Online Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programs

• Updated on  
• Aug 12, 2024

The field of clinical psychology offers many rewarding paths for those who are passionate about mental health and well-being. Traditionally, doctorate degree programs require full-time in-person attendance. However, the new education pattern is evolving. This complete article will explore the exciting world of online clinical psychology doctoral programs. We will also explain the advantages of online learning, the curriculum you can expect, and how these programs will help you to learn. For detailed information, you can refer to this article on the best online clinical psychology doctoral programs. 

This Blog Includes:

Doctor of psychology: clinical specialization (psyd-c), psyd in clinical psychology, phd in clinical psychology, phd in psychology, doctor of psychology in counseling psychology, online phd in clinical psychology , texila american university , meridian university, list of best online clinical psychology doctoral programs.

The top doctorate programs in clinical psychology offered online are listed here. Examine the following list to gain advanced knowledge about clinical psychology: 

Psychological doctorates are available at California Southern University . A doctorate program and the completion of 66 credits are prerequisites for the program. See the following for additional details:

The goal of this online PsyD program is to prepare students for licensure as psychologists. Since license eligibility differs from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and is dynamic, students are recommended to get in touch with state licensing offices directly to find out specific criteria.  The curriculum emphasizes the service orientation of a professional clinical degree by offering optional chances for supervised clinical work. 

Website: https://www.calsouthern.edu/behavioral-sciences/doctor-psychology/

Here is a list of some best Clinical Psychology Courses [Complete 2021 Guide]

The PsyD in Psychology degree at Capella University combines classroom instruction with virtual learning. It necessitates finishing a dissertation as well as taking part in internships and clinical practice. See the following for additional details:

Attain professional success while assisting others in realizing their potential. Capella’s online PsyD in Clinical Psychology program lets you become eligible for state licensing while expanding your knowledge of human behaviour. To assist you in putting theory into practice, the program offers coursework, in-person residencies, clinical practice, internships, and research opportunities. You will receive guidance from a group of advisers, teaching assistants, and licensure specialists to help you stay on course for graduation.

Website: https://www.capella.edu/online-psychology-degrees/psyd-clinical-psychology/

A PhD program in clinical psychology is available from Fielding Graduate University, which combines online and classroom instruction. See the material below for more details. 

A doctorate in Clinical Psychology can be obtained through a variety of means, such as in-person and online seminars, weekly residential sessions, faculty and student gatherings in your area, research projects, and clinical training experiences. The American Psychological Association has granted Fielding’s PhD program in clinical psychology accreditation. It is the only program for dispersed learning that has earned APA accreditation. Adults with training or experience in mental health are the target audience for the psychology PhD. Our innovative distributed learning approach combines the advantages of digital and in-person learning environments.

Website: https://www.fielding.edu/school-of-psychology/phd-in-clinical-psychology/

Here you can read about MA Clinical Psychology: Colleges, Jobs, Distance 

The PhD in Psychology program at Liberty University entails completing 60 credit hours of coursework as well as a dissertation under faculty supervision. See the following for additional details: 

The intensive research training offered by Liberty University’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology program can better prepare you for a career in academia and research. For those who wish to advance the field of psychology and discover novel approaches to promoting the growth, well-being, and healing of individuals, an online PhD in psychology program is the best option. The psychology doctorate program at Liberty is meant to equip you with the skills necessary to assess studies and comprehend the reality of human behaviour from a biblical perspective. 

Website: https://www.liberty.edu/online/behavioral-sciences/doctoral/phd-psychology/

The Doctor of Psychology program in Counseling Psychology is offered by Saint Mary’s University. Two community practicum placements and 87 credits must be completed for this program. To learn more, see: 

Saint Mary’s offers a Ph.D. program. Enroll in the Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology program to get ready for success as a licensed psychologist. If you have a master’s degree in mental health, consider advancing your career by enrolling in a course that will help you become knowledgeable and a leader. You can acquire the fundamental skills in evaluation, intervention, clinical supervision, consulting, administration, and research required to become a licensed psychologist in as little as five years. Beyond only imparting technical knowledge, our program delves into the legal, ethical, and social challenges that now influence the area.

Website: https://www.smumn.edu/doctor-of-psychology-in-counseling-psychology/

A PhD in Clinical Psychology is available at Walden University. The program can be finished in large part online. See the following for additional details:

With Walden’s online PhD in Clinical Psychology program, you can work toward becoming a licensed clinical psychologist. Acquire the skills to evaluate mental health and offer successful, research-backed solutions that support individuals in overcoming obstacles in life. Our curriculum helps you develop as a researcher and practitioner by fusing academic study with real-world, hands-on experiences. Develop a broad range of skills that will enable you to operate in telehealth and other settings with a variety of people.

Website: https://www.waldenu.edu/online-doctoral-programs/phd-in-clinical-psychology

A PhD in Clinical Psychology is available online from Saybrook University. Completing the degree typically requires five years of full-time study. See the following for additional details:

The PhD program in Clinical Psychology at Saybrook University lacks programmatic accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA), however, it is regionally recognized by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Certain state professional licensure boards or agencies have criteria regarding a year in residence, which the hybrid online PhD program in clinical psychology may not be able to fulfil. Graduates must verify any additional state-specific requirements with their respective state licensing boards in order to be qualified. Saybrook’s clinical program examines human experience in a variety of highly subjective, historical, contextual, cross-cultural, and spiritual contexts. It is grounded in humanistic psychology. 

Website: https://www.saybrook.edu/areas-of-study/humanistic-psychology-and-humanistic-clinical-psychology/phd-in-clinical-psychology/

Explore the course in Bachelors in Petroleum Engineering

The Texila American University offers an Online PhD in Clinical Psychology program. You can read more about the course here.

This is one of the best online clinical psychology doctoral programs. The degree program comprises 90 credit hours. There is a capstone project, and research work included in the curriculum. The core learning methodology includes forum discussions, BRICS models, case studies, Article reviews, contextual project work, and more. You can talk to your student mentor, or academic advisor for guidance. Besides this, you will receive thesis or dissertation support, and access to e-journals.

Website: https://dblp.ucnedu.org/phd-in-clinical-psychology/

Meridian University offers an excellent PsyD in Clinical Psychology course. Read more about the program below:

This is one of the online clinical psychology doctoral programs that you can enroll in with just a bachelor’s degree. Classes are held hybrid and online and take approximately 33-48 months to complete. You can gain 108 credits after completing this degree program. The program has WASC accreditation. Each quarter you can take 1 or multiple 7-week online classes. Classes are held in asynchronous coursework format via the e University’s custom social learning platform. Synchronous student community engagement and live video calls with faculty are also available.

Website: https://meridianuniversity.edu/academics/psychology/psyd-in-clinical-psychology

The highest degree in the profession, a PhD in clinical psychology, broadens the areas of practice and study. With the improved quality of online learning environments, an online PhD in clinical psychology can boost your resume.

Alliant International University is going to be your greatest option if you’re looking for the top online PsyD program that you can finish the quickest. It takes just two years to obtain a Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology, making it a fairly quick path to a PhD in psychology.

In India, a PhD in clinical psychology can take three to six years to complete. The intricacy of the subject, the type of research, and the candidate’s personal development all affect how long it takes. Generally speaking, tuition structures at government universities are more reasonable and frequently involve little fees.

Hope this blog provides you with all the important details about the  Online Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programs. For more information about such courses, visit our online courses page .

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Aditya Saini

Aditya Saini is a content writer with over a year and a half of experience helping national and international students navigate their journey to work abroad. His expertise lies in “jobs abroad”, all things practical, from writing articles on different topics such as part-time and full-time jobs to understanding salaries for different and highest-paying professions and securing internship programs in different countries. Aditya's passion is ensuring students have all the information they need to make the right decision about their career journeys overseas.

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