doing phd in clinical

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

Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCaTS)

Ph.d. program.

In support of its mission to develop independent clinical and translational science researchers, the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCaTS) collaborates with Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences in Rochester, Minnesota, to offer a Ph.D. track in clinical and translational science.

While Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences administers the overall Ph.D. Program, CCaTS delivers the clinical and translational science track's course work and oversees the mentored research experience, a cornerstone of the program. Mentors are Mayo Clinic faculty from a wide range of disciplines.

Read more about Ph.D. Program admissions or see profiles of current Ph.D. students in the clinical and translational science track.

Our Education Contacts page contains a listing of team members who can assist you with questions.

Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. Program

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Explore the 10 Best Graduate Clinical Psychology Programs

Graduates with Ph.D. degrees in clinical psychology often work in academia.

(Getty Images) |

Clinical psychologists help treat mental illness.

With the rise in mental health awareness, clinical psychology has become an attractive career path for those who care about mental health issues. Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health problems and often work in private practice or health care facilities. These are the Best Graduate Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs , based on the results of peer assessment surveys sent by U.S. News to academics in the field in fall 2019.

Scott Goldsmith | Aurora for USN&WR

• 10 (tie). Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.3

Key facts about the program: "The main emphasis of the program is research, especially on severe psychopathology," Harvard's website explains. "The program includes research, course work, and clinical practica, and usually takes five years to complete." Required courses for the program include classes in psychological testing, diagnostic interviewing and psychometric theory.

Learn more about Harvard University .

Indiana University |

• 10 (tie). Indiana University—Bloomington

Location: Bloomington, Indiana

Key facts about the program: This graduate program is very small and highly selective; it usually admits between three and five students per year. The curriculum of each student is tailored to the needs of that student, which means that students can define their own majors. "We have minimal course requirements, which enables our students to learn by doing," the program website states.

Learn more about Indiana University—Bloomington .

Andy Colwell |

• 10 (tie). Pennsylvania State University—University Park

Location: University Park, Pennsylvania

Key facts about the program: This clinical psychology Ph.D. program offers two tracks, one that focuses on adults and another that focuses on children. Doctoral students generally spend three to four years on coursework, and then spend a year apiece on producing a dissertation and completing a predoctoral internship. "The program includes courses in clinical psychology, neuroscience, personality, research design, psychopathology, psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and statistics," the Penn State website explains.

Learn more about Pennsylvania State University—University Park .

Temple University photography |

• 10 (tie). Temple University

Location: Philadelphia

Key facts about the program: "The overarching mission of the program is to train creative and accomplished clinical scientists who produce, consume, and disseminate psychological science and who function successfully in academic, research, and applied settings," the program website states. From the start of their Ph.D. program, Temple University clinical psychology graduate students gain research and clinical experience, and they receive education on mental, behavioral and emotional disorders, according to the university.

Learn more about Temple University .

Photo by Glenn Asakawa | University of Colorado

• 10 (tie). University of Colorado—Boulder

Location: Boulder, Colorado

Key facts about the program: The university's clinical psychology Ph.D. students are encouraged to work on interdisciplinary projects, according to the university website, which notes that the school has several interdisciplinary academic institutes that relate to clinical psychology. These include the Institute for Behavioral Genetics, the Institute of Behavioral Science and the Institute of Cognitive Science. The clinical psychology graduate program also operates several clinics, such as The Raimy Psychology Clinic, Sutherland Center for Bipolar Disorder, The Attention Behavior and Learning Clinic, and Brain Behavior Clinic.

Learn more about the University of Colorado—Boulder .

Daryl Marshke | MichiganPhotography

• 10 (tie). University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Key facts about the program: Alumni of this program often find jobs at top-flight academic institutions. "Our recent graduates have obtained post-doctoral appointments at some of the most prestigious programs such as the University of Minnesota, UCLA, and the University of Pittsburgh Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic," the program website states. "Our graduates also hold tenure track positions at leading universities such as the University of Michigan, the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Emory University, and NYU."

Learn more about the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor .

The University of Texas at Austin |

• 10 (tie). University of Texas—Austin

Location: Austin, Texas

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5): 4.3

Key facts about the program: Doctoral students must complete four years of graduate-level coursework, a second-year research project and a clinical practicum sequence to gain hands-on experience interacting with patients. They also need to finish a one-year predoctoral internship at a specific treatment site and successfully defend a dissertation in order to qualify for a doctorate. It typically takes six years, particularly for students who want to compete for academic positions, to complete the program, according to university faculty.

Learn more about the University of Texas—Austin .

Joe Angeles | WUSTL Photo

• 10 (tie). Washington University in St. Louis

Location: St. Louis

Key facts about the program: This clinical science training program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System, according to the program website. Students sometimes specialize in neuropsychology, clinical aging or health psychology. "Our students do not need to choose whether they will be scientists or practitioners; they must see these activities as being inherently intertwined, and they must be able to function in both roles," the program website states.

Learn more about Washington University in St. Louis .

University of Pennsylvania | University Communications

• 8 (tie). University of Pennsylvania

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.4

Key facts about the program: This program is tailored to the needs of aspiring clinical researchers, according to the program website. "Clinical training (in assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy) is seen as an integral part of the education of highly qualified, creative clinical scientists," the website states, adding that "the principal goal of Penn clinical students is to become expert psychological scientists, not simply expert clinicians, and the program is designed to support that goal."

Learn more about the University of Pennsylvania .

University of Pittsburgh |

• 8 (tie). University of Pittsburgh

Location: Pittsburgh

Key facts about the program: The mission of this program is to prepare future research scientists to conduct groundbreaking research on mental health issues and to advance understanding of those issues, according to the university. "Program faculty members include presidents of national organizations, journal editors, and members of federal grant review committees," the program website states. "Faculty research funding was several million dollars for the past year, which supports extensive laboratory facilities."

Learn more about the University of Pittsburgh .

University Relations Department, University of Minnesota Crookston |

• 5 (tie). University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Location: Minneapolis

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.5

Key facts about the program: According to the university, the Clinical Science and Psychopathology Research program's faculty particularly excel in personality and behavioral genetic research, as well as research into psychological disorders. The program's faculty conduct psychological experiments and epidemiological studies. "Our program is designed to train students who wish to become academic clinical psychologists or research scientists, although of course graduates will also find themselves well-prepared for various careers as clinicians or more applied researchers," the university website states.

Learn more about the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities .

Dennis Wise | University of Washington

• 5 (tie). University of Washington

Location: Seattle

Key facts about the program: A goal of the Ph.D. program in clinical psychology is to prepare students to become excellent researchers who can discover new information about mental health conditions and potential treatments, according to the university website. "Our training program is primarily an apprenticeship for a career that will encompass making significant contributions to scientific clinical psychology," the university website states. "The program is not appropriate for those interested solely in clinical practice and not in research."

Learn more about the University of Washington .

Bryce Richter | UW-Madison

• 5 (tie). University of Wisconsin—Madison

Location: Madison, Wisconsin

Key facts about the program: Because this program involves mentorships between faculty and students, one of its admissions criteria is the alignment of student and faculty research interests, according to the university website. Most students selected for the program majored in psychology, but some have majors in other related academic disciplines. The university encourages prospective clinical psychology students to conduct research on the school's faculty in this field.

Learn more about the University of Wisconsin—Madison .

Stony Brook University |

• 3 (tie). Stony Brook University—SUNY

Location: Stony Brook, New York

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.6

Key facts about the program: This Ph.D. program in clinical psychology is most appropriate for students interested in either a research or academic career, according to the Stony Brook University website. The program historically placed a heavy emphasis on behavioral psychology, but it has evolved to embrace a broader array of psychological perspectives while still providing a strong foundation in behavioral psychology. The program is designed to teach students how to take an empirical approach to the practice of psychology, according to the university.

Learn more about Stony Brook University .

Steve McConnell | UC Berkeley Public Affairs

• 3 (tie). University of California—Berkeley

Location: Berkeley, California

Key facts about the program: Doctoral students are matched with a faculty mentor at the beginning of their first year, and that person oversees the student's research, according to the university. The psychology clinical science program involves a combination of research and "hands-on clinical experience," according to the program website. It includes a one-year clinical internship. Berkeley's program is a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science, a coalition of doctoral programs that is focused on advancing clinical science.

Learn more about the University of California—Berkeley .

Dan Sears UNC-Chapel Hill |

• 2. University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill

Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.7

Key facts about the program: Students in this program have a choice between two tracks, one focused on adult mental health and the other on the mental well-being of children and families. "We emphasize training in clinically-informed research and evidence-based clinical work and recognize that students have varying career aspirations that may evolve over the course of graduate training," the program website states.

Learn more about the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill .

• 1. University of California—Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles

Peer reputation score (scale of 1-5) : 4.8

Key facts about the program: This is a six-year, full-time-only Ph.D. program. UCLA's psychology department does not offer separate M.A. or Psy.D. programs. The Ph.D. course of study includes a full-time, one-year internship. The Ph.D. program's mission is to train influential experts in the field of clinical psychology.

Learn more about the University of California—Los Angeles .

Learn more about top graduate schools.

Find out what you can do with a psychology degree , and check out all of the 2021 Best Graduate Schools rankings to find the right program for you. Stay up to date on education news by following U.S. News Education on Facebook ,  Twitter  and LinkedIn . 

(Christa Renee | Getty Images)

Explore the highest-ranked clinical psychology doctoral programs.

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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

How to Apply

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.

Meet Our Team

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.

Current Students    Faculty Mentors

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.

Visit the JD-PhD Website

Questions about the PhD program? Find out more.

Read the FAQ

How to Contact Us

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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Clinical Psychology PhD

Ph.d. in clinical psychology.

Welcome to the doctoral program in Clinical Psychology Program at Teachers College, Columbia University. The Clinical Psychology Program was founded in 1947-1948. It was APA-accredited in the first group of programs that were reviewed for accreditation in 1948 and that status has been uninterrupted. Our most recent site visit from the APA occurred in 2021, and we have been accredited until June 2031.

Our program operates according to a scientist-practitioner model. We are, thus, dedicated to training students to generate empirically-based knowledge in clinical psychology and to perform clinical work that is constantly informed by traditional and emerging scholarship in the field. We expect our students to learn to expertly produce, analyze, and discuss scientific material. We also expect our students to become proficient at providing clinical services to a diverse population. And, most importantly, we expect our students to learn to integrate these two goals. As our mission statement in the TC catalog notes, “The driving goal of our Clinical Psychology Program is to provide rigorous training in both contemporary clinical science and clinical assessment and intervention.”

A good deal of the training, especially that related to research, occurs through intensive participation in a research lab directed by a specific faculty mentor. It is this context, through this lab, that students develop their scientific skills and begin presenting their work at professional conferences and publishing in professional journals. Each student, of course, is also part of a cohort of doctoral students with whom they learn, collaborate, and socialize.

In recent years, graduates of our doctoral program have gained employment in tenure-track academic positions, as research scientists in medical schools, and as clinical researchers in a broad range of treatment settings. In addition, many of our graduates practice independently as well as in community settings for under-served populations.

The list of faculty reviewing and potentially accepting applicants for each cycle is listed on the application itself. Please check the application itself or email the admissions office at 

[email protected] for clarification.

Doug Mennin, Ph.D.

Professor, Director of Clinical Training

Research Centers

Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services

The Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services (DHCEPS) is an integral part of the teaching and training programs in Clinical, Counseling, School Psychology, Learning Disability and Reading Specialist. The Center works in a two-folded way; first it offers students the opportunity to integrate theoretical coursework with practicum experience within a multidisciplinary setting. This training is foreseen by highly qualified supervisors. Simultaneously, the DHCEPS offers affordable psychological and educational services to individuals, couples, and families residing in the nearby neighborhood of the New York City area. The emphasis is on respecting and working with clients from diverse, multicultural contexts regardless of age, racial and ethnic background, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, and religious or cultural affiliations. Additionally, DHCEPS is committed to maintaining a liaison with community-based agencies and organizations such as schools, hospitals, and mental health clinics, among others.

Teachers College Resilience Center for Veterans and Families

The Resilience Center for Veterans & Families pairs groundbreaking research on human emotional resilience with clinical training of therapists to assist veterans and their families as they transition back to civilian life.

Dean Hope Center for Psychological Services

The Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services (DHCEPS) is an integral part of the teaching and training programs in Clinical, Counseling, School Psychology, Learning Disability and Reading Specialist. The Center works in a two-folded way; first it offers students the opportunity to integrate theoretical coursework with practicum experience within a multidisciplinary setting. This training is foreseen by highly qualified supervisors.  Simultaneously, the DHCEPS offers affordable psychological and educational services to individuals, couples, and families residing in the nearby neighborhood of the New York City area. The emphasis is on respecting and working with clients from diverse, multicultural contexts regardless of age, racial and ethnic background, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, and religious or cultural affiliations.  DHCEPS also commits to maintaining a liaison with community-based agencies and organizations such as schools, hospitals and mental health clinics.

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2024, Summer 2024, and Fall 2024 terms.

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 95
• Entry Terms: Fall

Application Deadlines

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines , such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

Requirements from the tc catalog (ay 2023-2024).

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

View Full Catalog Listing

The Program requires the following:

The completion of 95 points of academic credit during three to four years of residence at the College.

A full-time, twelve-month clinical internship during the fourth or fifth year of study.

An original piece of empirical research, which also serves as a qualifying paper, to be completed during the second year of study.

A passing grade on the certification examination (on Research Methods) during the third year of study.

A Clinical case presentation as well as a research presentation, during the third year, each demonstrating the student’s ability to integrate theory, research, and practice.

A doctoral dissertation, which must be completed no later than the seventh year after matriculation.

During the first year of study, in addition to participating in a research lab, doctoral students typically take the following didactic courses: Ethical and professional issues in clinical psychology (CCPX 5030); Psychological measurement (HUDM 5059); courses on statistics and modeling; Research methods in social psychology (ORLJ 5040); Child psychopathology (CCPX 5034); Adult psychopathology (CCPX 5032); History and systems of psychology (CCPX 6020); and Dynamic psychotherapies (CCPX 5037). Students also take two semesters of psychological testing and diagnostic assessment (CCPX 5330, CCPX 5333) and a course in clinical interviewing (CCPX 5539).

Second Year

During their second year, students’ didactic courses include Brain and behavior (BBS 5068, 5069); Cognition, emotion, and culture (CCPX 5020); Psychotherapy with children (CCPX 5531); Cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal therapies (CCPX 5038); Clinical work with diverse populations (CCPX 5036); and Seminar on life course development (HUDK 6520). In addition, students sign up for a full year of research practicum with a faculty member (culminating in an empirical second- year project), a full-year adult psychodynamic psychotherapy practicum (CCPX 6335), and an additional elective full-year clinical rotation (e.g., on child and adolescent psychotherapy; on neuropsychological assessment).

Third-year didactic courses include Group dynamics: A systems perspective (ORL 5362); and Dissertation seminar (CCPX 7500). There is also a full-year advanced psychodynamic clinical practicum (CCPX 6336) and a one-semester supervision and consultation practicum (CCPX 6333). Most students also elect a full-year family therapy practicum (CCPJ 6363).

Fourth and Fifth Year

The fourth year is typically focused on clinical externship (CCPX 5230) and extensive work on the dissertation. A full-year fourth year psychotherapy practicum (CCPX 6338) is recommended, though not required. Year five is usually spent on a full- year clinical internship (CCPX 6430).

The program allows only 12 points of graduate work from another institution to be transferred. No transfer credits are awarded for practica, workshops, or independent study.

• View Other Degrees

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Email: shulevitz@tc.columbia.edu

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About the PhD in Clinical Investigation Program

The program is targeted toward internal physician postdoctoral fellows in clinical departments of the School of Medicine. It involves one year of full-time academic classroom work, followed by at least two years of mentored training in clinical research. The combination of a year of instruction and a year of clinicals allows students the scientific grounding for subsequent original research. This research effort is jointly mentored by faculty from the program and a mentor from the student’s SOM department. After fulfilling all requirements, a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Clinical Investigation is awarded by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Curriculum for the PhD in Clinical Investigation

Browse an overview of this program's requirements in the JHU  Academic Catalogue  and explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School  Course Directory .

Prerequisites for the PhD Degree

• Satisfactory completion of 90 credit hours of course work, including one year of full-time in-residency course work
• Five additional courses to be taken in the second or third years
• Continuous registration for the Research Forum and registration for Thesis Research each term
• Completion of a Comprehensive Exam at the end of the didactic year
• Satisfaction of all university requirements for the PhD, including completion of a Preliminary Oral Examination, Thesis Preparation, and Thesis Defense

Admissions Requirements

For general admissions requirements, please visit the How to Apply page. For our PhD specific application requirements, please see our How to Apply page.

This specific program also requires:

Prior Graduate Degree

Advanced medical degree: e.g., MD, MBBS, PhD

Prior Work Experience

Work with human subjects in clinical investigation

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores  are required  for this program. This program accepts the following standardized test scores: USMLE and GRE or MCAT.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all application components.

GTPCI is one of 60 national recipients of an NIH-sponsored CTSA KL2 Award to support institutional career development programs for physicians and dentists, encouraging them to become independent, patient-oriented clinical investigators. This Multi- disciplinary Clinical Research Career Development Program funds clinical research training for a broad group of physicians, dentists, and other scientists who have a doctorate in a health-related field, including pharmacy, nursing, epidemiology, and behavioral sciences. The Johns Hopkins KL2 program will provide career development support for junior faculty physicians or dentists from within Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions.

Information regarding the cost of tuition and fees can be found on the Bloomberg School's Tuition and Fees page.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who  are admitted to PhD programs at JHU  starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a $1500 need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU.   These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need.  View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help.

Director Khalil Ghanem, MD, PhD

Academic Program Manager Cristina A. DeNardo, MEd 410-502-9734 [email protected]

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

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The admissions cycle for Fall 2024 is now CLOSED! 

Applications for the next admissions cycle (Fall 2025) will be accepted starting October 1, 2024. Deadlines for the next admissions cycle will be updated by the end of August 2024. See below for this year’s application deadlines as a reference. Thank you!

JDP Information Day

Our program held an online information session for prospective applicants on  Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 9:00-10:30AM PST . For anyone who was unable to attend, we have posted a copy of the presentation slides below. Thank you!

JDP Information Day Presentation for Fall 2024 Admission

Application Deadlines

Deadlines for fall 2024:.

• November 15, 2023 (11:59 PM EST): Supplemental Program Application Deadline (including letters of recommendation)
• December 1, 2023: Cal State Apply Application Deadline
• January 2024 (check SDSU account for specific dates): Deadline to Submit Transcripts to SDSU
• Mid-January 2024: Interview Offers Extended (Note: You will be notified by email either way)
• February 5 & 6, 2024: Two-Day ONLINE Interview Process

The Application Process has two Steps:

• The Supplemental Program and the Cal State Apply applications may be filled out concurrently.
• DO NOT send any application materials to UC San Diego at this time. Only students who are admitted to the joint-doctoral program must submit a UC San Diego application. After formal notification from SDSU, students will receive material from UC San Diego.

Step 1: Supplemental Program Application

November 15, 2023, at 11:59 PM EST (including letters of recommendation)

Submit your Fall 2024 Supplemental Program Application online: http://apply.interfolio.com/128030

Application materials may be submitted beginning Oct 01, 2023

Faculty Mentors

Choose faculty mentors to include on your application: Faculty Mentorship

Supplemental Program Application: Required Documents

NOTE: The SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program has decided to  waive consideration of all scores from the GREs (General and Psychology Subject Test) for the 2023-2024 application cycle  (for entry to the doctoral program in Fall 2024). We will not review any GRE scores for admission to the program.

1. Statement of Purpose

• Limit your statement to no more than 3 pages, single-spaced, 12-point type.
• In your essay, state your purpose in deciding to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Describe your scholarly and research areas of interest and your plans for your future profession. You are encouraged to indicate specific research interests and potential JDP faculty mentors with whom you would be interested in working during your graduate training.
• In addition, briefly describe characteristics of your background or training that speak to your likely success in graduate school and your chosen career path. You do not need to restate your CV. Instead, highlight the experiences you view as most relevant, formative, or illustrative of your potential and any aspects of your experiences that may not be summarized well on a CV or in a checklist.
• In addition, we are interested in learning about any challenges or adversities you have overcome during your academic journey. Further, describe any aspects of your personal or professional experiences that demonstrate your commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Examples include advocacy, community service with diverse populations, and research examining inequities.

2. CV/Resume

3. unofficial transcripts (for all colleges/universities attended), 4. three letters of recommendation.

(requested through the online Supplemental Program Application and received by the application deadline: November 15, 2023)

Recommenders may include:

• Supervisors or managers
• Colleagues from professional organizations
• Colleagues from charitable agencies
• No friends or relatives, please.

5. Current or Planned Coursework Form (if applicable)

Current or Planned Coursework Form

Interested in also applying to the SDSU Psychology Masters Program? You must submit a separate online Interfolio application to their Department of Psychology Master’s Program .

Having Technical Difficulties? For help signing up, accessing your Interfolio account, or submitting your application, please visit the help and support section or get in touch via email at [email protected] or phone at (877) 997-8807.

Program-Related Questions? For any questions about our program or the Supplemental Program Application that cannot be answered on our website, you may contact us at [email protected] .

Step 2: CAL State Apply Application

Please follow the “Cal State Apply Graduate Student Application Guide” located on the Cal State Apply website when completing your Cal State Apply application.

Applying to Multiple Programs? Applicants are only allowed to select one major per Cal State Apply application. If you wish to apply to additional programs, you can do so by simply completing a Supplementary Program application for each program. If the other program does not have a Supplemental Program application and only uses the Cal State Apply application to review applications, go ahead and select that program on your Cal State Apply application and just submit a Supplemental Program application (through Interfolio) for our program. 

Supporting Information Section: Our Selection Committee ONLY reviews information included in the Supplemental Program application; therefore, we recommend that you complete this section as follows (this only applies when you select our program “ Clinical Psychology San Diego Graduate ,” on your Cal State Apply application).

Experiences Select “I Am Not Adding Any Experiences”

For questions or help using Cal State Apply, visit the Cal State Apply Applicant Help Center .

Note: Application Fee Waivers are no longer available. Refer to our Admission FAQs page for more information.

SUBMITTING OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS

Please refer to the SDSU Graduate Admissions website for general admission requirements and how to submit official transcripts.

International students completing a degree at an institution outside the United States should review and follow the  International Graduate Steps to Apply .

For questions about Cal State Apply or general admission documents (e.g. transcripts, TOEFL scores, etc.), contact the Graduate Admissions Office at (619) 594-6336 or [email protected] . International applicants may contact the International Recruitment Office at (619) 594-6336 or [email protected] .

Masters vs. Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

Know the facts when deciding between a master's or doctorate in clinical psych..

Posted June 13, 2016 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

In choosing a career related to clinical psychology, there are a lot of decisions that must be made. In a previous post we discussed the Ph.D.-PsyD decision. Today, we want to explore another tough decision: Master's (e.g., MA/MS in Psychology, Marriage , and Family (Counseling) Therapy , Mental Health Counseling or MSW) versus Doctorate (Ph.D. or PsyD).

Let’s start with some basic characteristics of each type of degree. First, a Master of Psychology can be in clinical (best suited for those with an interest in psychopathological populations and behavioral health), counseling (best for those interested in vocational and career processes, human diversity, and professional training) or educational (provide counseling services to students, including those with a learning disability or those with behavioral or social problems).

Second, a Master's of Social Work (MSW) degree can be in a clinical direct practice track, or a macro-practice track (i.e., focus on political advocacy, community organizing, policy analysis and/or human services management ).

Third, a PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology degree that is best suited for those with an interest in psychopathological populations and behavioral health, and places greater emphasis on the practice of psychology and less emphasis on research. Finally, a Ph.D. (a Doctor of Philosophy degree) can be obtained in the same domains as a Master’s degree, and puts greater emphasis on research than a PsyD.

The time frame for completing each of these graduate degrees is MSW: 2 years, MA: 2 years, PsyD: 4-6 years, and Ph.D.: 5-7 years. During these years of study, it is important to note that (in general) only Ph.D. students will receive support (tuition paid and a stipend) during their years in graduate school.

Of course, there are funding exceptions, especially in cases where a university only has a Master’s program. In addition, scholarships are sometimes available to MSW, MA and PsyD students, but this is generally rare. Support during graduate school might be very important for you, because you can rack up literally tens of thousands of dollars each year in financial assistance, and the amount of money you will earn with your graduate degree may not be as high as you imagined.

Master’s and PsyD programs, in general, are unable to provide the same type of support as a Ph.D. program. Part of this is tied to the fact that typically only Ph.D. students serve as Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants. Also, because Ph.D. programs have far fewer graduate students than PsyD programs, schools are able to afford to support their Ph.D. students.

As far as deciding to go Master or Doctorate degree, there are several issues to keep in mind. First, the general state of affairs for graduate school acceptance is that there is a hierarchy, with Master's programs being easier to get into than PsyD programs and Ph.D programs being the hardest to get into. For the sake of this post, ease of being accepted is defined in terms of grades and GRE scores, although other factors (e.g., clinical and research experience) do come into play. Of course, there are exceptions to this hierarchy, and you may decide to seek a degree at a for-profit school where grades and GRE score are not deemed as important as a non-profit public or private institution.

Our point is simply that your decision about going for a Master’s or Doctorate degree in a graduate program may be a function of what type of program your grades can get you into. We are not saying this is fair, but we hope you understand that schools need some way to pare down the number of students they will accept, with grades and (especially) GRE scores are seen as two important criteria to make these decisions.

We want to add one more point about all of this. It may be the case that your undergraduate academic record is not strong enough to get into a Doctoral program, but you can get accepted into a Master’s program and you do very well in this program. This can work to your advantage if you still want a Doctorate. The thinking here is that if you do well in the Master’s program, you show a Doctoral program that your undergraduate academic record was not indicative of your true potential. However, your stellar record in your Master’s program can show you have what it takes to continue your education in a Doctoral program.

The second issue to think about is the length of time you will be in graduate school. As stated above, the time in graduate school is shorter for a Master’s student than a Ph.D. student. Of course, this means a typical Master’s student can be earning a real salary a few years before a Ph.D. student. Although this is true, one must keep in mind (1) a Master’s degree leads (on average) to a lower salary than a PhD, and (2) a Master’s student will typically have some debt incurred during their two years in school. Let me add that to find out tuition costs for any APA-accredited graduate program, go to their website and look for the link that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data.” I think you will be very surprised to see the tuition costs at graduate programs—they’re pretty high. As stated earlier, a Ph.D. student will typically not have any tuition debt hanging over their head. Thus the extra salary for a Master’s student in the time they are out of graduate school working compared to the stipend of a Ph.D. student will probably be offset by the debt the Master’s student must repay.

Third, whether you go for a Master’s or Doctoral degree, you need to consider issues of accreditation of your graduate program and (for Doctoral degrees) your clinical internship. The reason for this is that graduating from an accredited program will offer a greater range of job opportunities. In fact, some employers will only hire those from accredited graduate programs (e.g., the Veterans Administration). If a school does not indicate that it is accredited (e.g., from the American Psychological Association) it should be viewed with caution. With all of this in mind, you should know that to be licensed (certified to practice by a state) in your chosen field it is often the case that you need an accredited graduate degree or internship. Also, note that licensure requires supervised professional experience, an examination at both the state and national levels. Specific courses may be required if a state deems it necessary.

Fourth, as discussed earlier, you must be clear about the issue of job opportunities and salary. In general, it is the case that Master’s degrees lead to fewer job opportunities and lower salaries than Doctoral degrees. One could argue that this is a function of the amount of training--employers are looking for potential employees who have more experience and supervised training. Some might argue that in this regard, a Doctoral student has a stronger foundation of training than a Master's student.

Fifth, you need to decide how much research training versus clinical practice training you want. If you are hoping for the former, then a Ph.D. is definitely for you. A Master’s in Psychology degree may include some research experience. An MSW and a PsyD will likely offer the least research training. One must keep in mind, however, that regardless of the clinical degree you pursue, there will always be some discussion of research, since the basis of diagnoses, testing, therapeutic techniques, etc. is based on research. The key point here is that certain clinical degrees do not require you to be actually conducting research.

Finally, give some thought to how much independence you want to have when you graduate. This all revolves around the issue of licensure that was raised earlier, and it gets very complicated because every state has its own laws regarding licensure for psychology-related degrees. Make sure you understand the laws for the state where you will practice. Of course, you might not know where you will end up, but you must be aware that the state where you end up living may have very different laws than what you expected or from where you originally were working. An important point to keep in mind about licensure is that once you are licensed, if you decide to go into private practice, your fee schedule is typically market-driven.

With all of this in mind, licensure issues require you to consider the following (also check out this info from the APA ):

You need to see what are the licenses your state approves. For a PsyD and PhD, this is not a problem, because all states will have a license for a Psychologist. The issue gets tricky when you have a Master's degree, because states tend to have different types of licensure for these individuals.

• If your state does not have a license that meets your background, what requirements are needed to get a license in a different area? For example, your Master’s degree may not allow you to be licensed as a Psychologist, but after meeting additional requirements you might get licensed as a Licensed Clinical Counselor.
• You need to be clear which licenses require you to be supervised (by a colleague with a certain license) and which allow for autonomous functioning (i.e., functioning on your own). Keep in mind that an employer typically likes an employee to be autonomous—they do not like paying for two hours of supervision (your time and that of your supervisor).
• When you apply for a license that will eventually allow autonomous functioning, what are the requirements to ultimately receive this license (e.g., supervision hours, direct service hours) that you must fulfill?

In presenting these important factors to think about with regard to a Master's vs. Doctoral degree], we, of course, understand that each individual has unique circumstances that must be taken into account. Still, we hope that presenting these factors gives you some food for thought as you consider your ultimate career path in clinical psychology.

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

Want more? Check out our website for more psychology-related career information.

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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Unleash Your Potential: 6 Key Skills for Clinical Research PhD Program

Blog summary .

• Introduction 
• 1. Mastering Literature Review 
• 2. Proficiency in Experimental Design 
• 3. Skills in Data Collection 
• 4. Communicating Findings Effectively 
• 5. Emphasizing Collaboration and Networking 
• 6. Adaptability and Innovation 
• Challenges in Developing Research Skills 

Dreaming of a fulfilling career in clinical research?

Introduction  .

Beginning a PhD program in clinical research requires a deep comprehension of the area’s complexities, making it a complicated intellectual endeavour. This introduction explores the fundamentals of a PhD programme in clinical research and highlights the significance of developing certain research abilities. As we explore the critical components that define success in this academic pursuit, it becomes evident that mastering these skills contributes to educational excellence and prepares individuals for impactful contributions in the dynamic realm of clinical research. 

1. Mastering Literature Review  

Mastering the art of literature review is paramount for any individual pursuing a PhD in Clinical Research . Beyond the basics, efficient utilization of online databases is a skill that will be frequented throughout the program. Aspiring researchers should become adept at navigating platforms like PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to access the latest and most relevant literature. 

Critical analysis techniques play a crucial role in this skill set. Evaluating the credibility and relevance of sources, identifying key themes, and synthesizing information are essential aspects of constructing a robust theoretical framework for research studies. The literature review sets the stage for formulating research questions and hypotheses, making it a cornerstone skill. 

2. Proficiency in Experimental Design  

At the core of any research endeavour lies the design of experiments. Crafting clear and testable hypotheses is a fundamental aspect of this skill. As individuals pursue a PhD in Clinical Research, the ability to choose suitable methodologies and plan statistical analyses becomes increasingly critical. 

The selection of appropriate methodologies depends on the nature of the research—whether qualitative, quantitative, or a combination of both. This decision shapes the data collection methods and, consequently, the reliability and validity of the research findings. Proficiency in statistical analysis is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions and ensuring the overall rigour of the study. 

Proficiency in experimental design is essential for success in clinical research PhD programs , as it empowers individuals to craft clear hypotheses, select appropriate methodologies, and plan statistical analyses, thereby ensuring the reliability and validity of research findings.

3. Skills in Data Collection  

Accurate and reliable data collection is the bedrock of successful clinical research. The selection of appropriate instruments, ensuring data accuracy, and navigating ethical considerations are integral components of this skill. As individuals pursuing a PhD in Clinical Research, these aspects are vital in producing research that stands up to scrutiny. 

Choosing the suitable instruments involves a meticulous evaluation of their validity and reliability. Researchers should align instruments with research objectives, ensuring they provide trustworthy data. Ensuring data accuracy demands attention to detail and adherence to standardized protocols, while ethical considerations necessitate a keen awareness of participants’ rights and ethical guidelines. 

4. Communicating Findings Effectively  

Even groundbreaking research remains incomplete without effective communication. Crafting clear and concise research reports, developing compelling visuals, and honing presentation skills for conferences are indispensable subtopics within this skill. 

The ability to craft clear research reports involves structuring information logically and ensuring the narrative flows seamlessly. Researchers should communicate their findings in a manner accessible to experts and non-experts, emphasizing the practical implications of the research. 

Presentation skills for conferences are essential in disseminating research findings. Individuals pursuing a PhD in Clinical Research should be prepared to articulate their work confidently, engage with the audience effectively, and participate in meaningful discussions. 

5. Emphasizing Collaboration and Networking  

Clinical research is inherently collaborative, making building professional relationships, active participation in research communities, and fostering teamwork essential to success. As individuals pursue a PhD in Clinical Research, the ability to collaborate becomes a valuable asset. 

Building professional relationships involves networking with colleagues, mentors, and professionals in the field. Networking opportunities arise at conferences, workshops, and collaborative research projects. Building a solid professional network opens doors for information sharing and possible teamwork on upcoming research projects. 

Active participation in research communities, whether local or virtual, allows individuals to stay informed on current trends, share insights, and seek advice from peers. The collective wisdom of a research community can significantly enhance individual research endeavours. 

Active participation in online PhD in clinical research programs offers invaluable networking opportunities, enabling students to build professional relationships, stay abreast of current trends, and leverage the collective wisdom of virtual research communities for enhanced academic success.

6. Adaptability and Innovation  

The research landscape is dynamic, requiring researchers to navigate changes, embrace technological advancements, and foster innovations in clinical research. Adaptability and innovation are indispensable subtopics within this skill set. 

Navigating changes in the research landscape involves staying informed about emerging methodologies, technologies, and trends. As individuals pursuing a PhD in Clinical Research, researchers should be proactive in updating their skills and methods to stay at the forefront of advancements in their field. 

Embracing technological advancements enhances the efficiency and precision of research activities. Investigating the combination of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and data analytics can improve the calibre of data gathering, processing, and sharing. 

Don’t miss out on exploring our insightful blog on “ Current Trends in Quality Assurance of Clinical Research ” to gain deeper insights into ensuring the integrity and excellence of research practices in the field.

Challenges in Developing Research Skills  

While developing research skills is rewarding, it is not without challenges. Overcoming common obstacles and strategies for skill enhancement are vital aspects of this subtopic. As individuals pursue a PhD in Clinical Research, acknowledging and addressing these challenges is key to success.  Common obstacles in developing research skills include time constraints, resource limitations, and the complexity of research methodologies.

Researchers should approach these challenges with resilience, seeking solutions and prioritizing continuous improvement.  Developing new skills requires a dedication to lifelong learning , looking for mentorship, and taking advantage of professional development opportunities. It is crucial for people pursuing a PhD in clinical research to adopt a growth attitude and acknowledge that skill improvement is a continuous process. 

Conclusion  

Mastering the essential research skills this comprehensive guide outlines is paramount for success in a Clinical Research PhD Program. These skills collectively shape well-rounded researchers, ranging from the meticulous art of literature review to proficiency in experimental design, data collection, effective communication, collaboration, and adaptability. Beyond academic excellence, these competencies prepare individuals for impactful contributions in the dynamic landscape of clinical research.  

As aspiring PhD candidates navigate the challenges inherent in skill development, acknowledging and addressing obstacles while embracing continuous learning and a growth mindset is key. By doing so, individuals not only overcome challenges but also position themselves as adept professionals ready to innovate and lead in the evolving field of clinical research. 

Turn your dreams into reality by mastering critical research skills.

The program primarily focuses on advanced research methodologies and applications within clinical research. 

Mastering the literature review is vital as it forms the foundation for constructing robust theoretical frameworks, research questions, and hypotheses. 

Effective communication is crucial for crafting clear research reports, developing visuals, and honing presentation skills, ultimately enhancing the impact of research. 

Because clinical research is collaborative by nature, networking with other professionals and participating in research communities can help exchange knowledge and encourage future collaboration. 

Strategies include a commitment to continuous learning, seeking mentorship, and actively engaging in professional development to address time and resource limitations. 

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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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Ten tips for aspiring Clinical Psychologists

***Please note, this blog post was written in 2019. For 2023 updates, see my recent post by clicking here***

The competition to become a Clinical Psychologist is fierce. In the UK, the constituent parts of the training are a three-year undergraduate degree which is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), and a three-year taught Clinical Psychology doctorate. The doctorate is full-time; candidates are employed by the NHS and complete a series of six-month placements in addition to coursework and a research project.

Psychology undergraduate students self-fund their degrees and as such, courses have flexibility about the number of students they can enrol. Psychology is consistently the second most popular degree in the UK , with an estimated 13,000 graduating each year . However, until recently, the only places offered on the doctorate were NHS funded, and therefore carefully regulated. Between 2012 and 2018, doctorate courses enrolled around 590 students per year altogether; just 15% of the total number of applicants . While three courses now include self-funded places, these come with a price tag of £20k+ a year, putting them out of reach of most graduates.  

Here, I offer 10 tips for aspiring Clinical Psychologists:

1. Know the bottom-line .  If you are at the point of applying for the doctorate, look at the particular courses you are interested in on the Clearing House website . What are their non-negotiables? Many courses now stipulate that candidates must have a 2:1 or a score above 65% in their undergraduate degree. Others require that applicants have a year’s clinical experience supervised by a qualified psychological therapist. If you don’t meet their stipulations your application will be automatically excluded, even if it is otherwise strong.   It is therefore worth researching each course’s bottom-lines before you apply.

2. Look into placement-year degrees . Several universities including Aston, Bath and Leeds (where I am based) offer applicants the opportunity to undertake a placement year ‘in industry’ between the second and third year. This means that students can gain relevant clinical experiences which can help them to be competitive applicants for graduate jobs. These placements are overseen by the universities, helping to ensure that they provide students with more useful experiences than they may gain through general volunteering. Some placements also offer a contribution towards expenses or a stipend, which volunteer roles generally do not.  

3. Consider the ‘Increasing Access to Psychological Therapies’ (IAPT) initiative for an alternative career as a psychological therapist . IAPT was launched in 2007 to provide greater access to psychological interventions for people with mild-to-moderate anxiety and depression. It is now planned to expand in order to provide therapies to 1.5million adults per year by 2020/2021 . There are two main types of psychological therapists working in IAPT: Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners (PWPs) and High-Intensity CBT Therapists (HITs). PWPs are recruited into training positions with IAPT services on an NHS band 4; once they are qualified, they are paid at band 5 and can progress to band 6 ( for information on NHS pay bands, see here ). Similarly, HITs apply to train with specific NHS services. They train on band 6 and are paid on band 7 once qualified. Sign up to NHS jobs   for alerts about these roles. A follow-up of HITs suggested that 79% stay in IAPT services after qualifying, 61% become CBT supervisors and 23% progress to more senior roles. It also possible to self-fund training to qualify as a CBT therapist, by undertaking a postgraduate course accredited as Level-2 by the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies ( BABCP ).  

4. “Remember at the end of the day, it’s just a job” . This was the best advice I was given before I attended my interviews for the Clinical Psychology Doctorate. A qualified Clinical Psychologist called me to give me some advice, and these words helped remind me that I wasn’t auditioning for the X-Factor: at absolute best, I would become a qualified psychological therapist. Imminent fame, stardom and riches were not around the corner. Being a Clinical Psychologist in the NHS is a wonderful job, but it is not without stress and strain, like any other healthcare related job. So, relax: it’s just a job.

5. Vary your experiences . Working as a research assistant or assistant psychologist will give you great experience for the Clinical Psychology doctorate, but more than a year in any one post will have diminishing returns. While you will always need to balance the opportunity to gain varied experience with the need to pay your rent and bills, it’s worth remembering that having a broad skillset will give you the strongest CV and application.

6. Treat applications like assignments and interviews like exams . You cannot assume that the knowledge and experience you have will naturally shine through: work hard to sell yourself. Consider carefully the range of experiences you have had. For example, what is the range of client groups you have worked with? What experiences have you gathered? Think carefully about the knowledge you have in relation to engaging different client groups, conducting assessments, collecting and storing sensitive data, managing risk, and applying psychological theory to individuals, for example by contributing to formulations or interventions. Also consider carefully the job which you are applying or interviewing for: who is interviewing you, and what is their area of interest? Which client group will you be working with, and what things might you need to be conscious of? Which therapeutic modalities might you be using, such as CBT or psychodynamic approaches? One way to impress your interviewers is to appear prepared for the opportunity they are offering. For more tips on improving your chances of being successful in your applications for assistant psychologist posts, see my more recent blog post here .

7. Consider alternative psychology disciplines . If you have a BPS-accredited undergraduate degree, Clinical Psychology is not your only option for working therapeutically. For example, many posts which are open to Clinical Psychologists are also open to Counselling Psychologists. To train as a Counselling Psychologist, you can either do a self-funded doctorate degree or the BPS qualification in counselling psychology; this involves three years of supervised practice. More information is available here . Alternatively, for psychologists interested in working with forensic populations, Forensic Psychology may offer a fulfilling alternative career to Clinical Psychology. In some secure hospitals, much of the work of Forensic Psychologists involves delivering psychological therapy. To train as a Forensic Psychologist you can either complete a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology or a Masters in Forensic Psychology followed by two years of BPS training and supervised practice. More information on becoming a Forensic Psychologist is available here . It is also worth noting that the University of Birmingham now runs a four-year doctorate which offers candidates a dual qualification in both Forensic and Clinical Psychology (see here ).  

8. Look for research opportunities . As an undergraduate I undertook some voluntary work as a research assistant with a professor and lecturer in my department. It was one of the best decisions I made: it paved the way to my Medical Research Council-funded PhD in Resilience to Suicidality and kick-started my love of improvement in healthcare. It also helped me to gather a range of experiences in working with clinical populations, as my PhD involved undertaking psychological assessments with people with psychosis and testing a novel mood-boosting intervention in this group. I would highly recommend seeking research opportunities to aspiring Clinical Psychologists. If you are currently a psychology undergraduate, seek opportunities with clinically-oriented researchers in your department. If you are a psychology graduate, sign up for job alerts at jobs.ac.uk and look for opportunities which would allow you to gain experience working with clinical psychologists and/or researching with clinical populations.

9. Keep your eye on the proposed role for ‘Clinical Associate Psychologists’. This is anticipated to take t he form of an apprenticeship which w ill last 18 months and produce psychology professionals who undertake psychological assessment and formulation, and who deliver psychological interventions. At the moment, it is suggested that each Clinical Associate Psychologist will train on a Band 5 salary and be paid at Band 6 once qualified. The plans are currently in development ,   but should be in place in the coming year.   ***For current information on this role, please see my more recent update blog by clicking here***

10. Take heart: the need for psychologists is not diminishing . While the sense of competition may feel overwhelming, the demand for psychological therapies is increasing, which is reflected in the introduction of the IAPT initiative and the new role of the Clinical Associate Psychologist. While getting a place on the Clinical Psychology Doctorate may be challenging, if you have a passion for psychological work, the future is bright!

Finally, I want to note that while the cap on funded places for the Clinical Psychology doctorate produces a low success rate at the point of enrolment, I believe it also offers significant benefits. First, the competition that the cap creates means that aspiring Clinical Psychologists need to seek additional experience and training after their undergraduate degrees to strengthen their applications. This experience ensures that all doctoral trainees know the discipline they are working in and can feel confident in their career choice before they sign-up to the three-year course. This is reflected in the high retention rates of courses ( 99.4% ): students rarely fail to complete their doctorate, once they’re on it. Second, it means that once qualified, Clinical Psychologists have good job prospects: 95% are employed in a clinical psychology job within 12 months of graduating . Deregulating the number of doctorate training places could shift this balance, creating the possibility that qualified Clinical Psychologists could become unable to find employment. By ensuring that applicants are experienced and committed, I believe that continuing to fund all forms of postgraduate psychological training offers the best outcome for applicants, healthcare providers and clients.

Please note that unfortunately I am unable to offer personalised career advice.

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Can overseas clinical psychologists register in the …, which psychology masters course should i do …, 33 comments.

I completly agree with all of your points. However I have a point to make regarding your last paragraph.

I feel that there are not enough qualified Clinical Psychologists, particuarly in certain NHS trusts. Working as an Assistant Psychologist in several services, I have witnessed CP’s far too stretched in their work and therefore unable to give 100%. So although having a tiny bottleneck to get onto clinical training means that the best of the best become trainee CP’s, however, once qualified they often struggle to perform to the best of their ability.

Obviously there are several factors for why this may be the case (e.g. many CP’s working in private practice- maybe they wouldn’t move to private practice if working in the NHS was more manageable?).

Thanks for reading and for your comment! It’s great to hear you found it interesting. I absolutely agree that many mental health services are overwhelmed and therefore the staff in them, including CPs, are burnt-out (see my blog on this). The point I was trying to make was a little different- that is that the current system allows the number of qualifying CPs to be linked to the number of available jobs in a regulated way, so that there are not far more qualifying staff than jobs. This is seen in some other countries were the doctorate is self funded, and results in many CPs- with huge educational debt- unable to find work. I believe that our current situation could be improved by 1) increasing funded training places on all psychological therapist postgrad training courses; 2) creating more jobs in services and 3) improving working conditions so fewer staff feel the need to leave the NHS.

Hi Judith, great article and very informative.

I am currently a producer working in fashion. I have always had a love of psychology and studied sociology and youth work when I was 21. I didn’t finish the degrees because I decided to move into the media but have always regretted not finishing as I always seem to ‘swing back’ to a career in psychology.

I am now 37 and still have a deep fascination with Clinical Psychology. Currently researching my options but thought you may have some advice and tips on how I can move over to this career?

I am currently considering an online course with Arden university, so I would be curious in hearing your views on my approach and what tips you may have for me.

Hi Shayne, thanks for reading and for your comment. Have you seen my blog on becoming a psychotherapist for people who don’t have undergrad psychology degrees? Might be relevant: https://judithjohnsonphd.com/2019/05/29/how-to-become-a-therapist-without-completing-a-bsc-psychology-degree/ 🙂

thank you very nice website article

Well, thanks a lot for this very informative article. I’ve a 4 year bachelor’s degree in psychology from Malaysia and a 2 years Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from Istanbul, Turkey.

I also have unconditional offers from UCL and KCL for another Masters degree. But I couldn’t secure the funding unfortunately. As a foreigner the doctorate in clinical psychology has to be self-funded which is impossible for me. So, as a foreigner to qualify as a clinical psychologist in the UK, are there any alternate routes or funding opportunities that you know of?

I really would appreciate your feedback.

Hi Yaqeen, thanks for reading! I’m afraid that there is only one way to become a Clinical Psychologist in the UK and that is to complete the Clinical Psychology Doctorate. However, there are other routes to become a qualified therapist more broadly. I’ve written a blog which touches on this- I hope something in it may be useful for you: https://judithjohnsonphd.com/2019/05/29/how-to-become-a-therapist-without-completing-a-bsc-psychology-degree/?preview=true&frame-nonce=0c86812ac1

Hi Judith, thanks for your article. I found it educating and interesting.

I have a Bsc in psychology and graduated with a 2:2. I presently studying philosophy and should graduate next year either with a first class or a 2:1.

I shall be 27 next year and I hope to study become a clinical psychologist. As a foreigner and one who did not get a 2:1 in my undergraduate psychology, it may be difficult to get funding and admission into schools in the UK.

I am currently researching my options but would like to hear your advice and tips on how to go about it.

I’m afraid I don’t have much information regarding overseas students applying for the doctorate in clinical training in the UK. However, if you contact the Leeds Clearing House https://www.leeds.ac.uk/chpccp/ who manage applications for all the UK training courses, they should be able to advise you. You should also contact the British Psychological Society to explore whether your psychology degree would be provide you with the Graduate Basis for Registration within the UK. Finally, Miriam Silver provides training days for people looking to improve their applications: https://www.clinpsy.org.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=21468

Hi Judith, Thanks for this information it is really useful. I have a BSc in Applied Psychology which is accredited by the BPS; unfortunately I only gained a 2:2 (I had personal circumstances and didn’t apply for mitigating circumstances) I’m not sure of the exact mark but I’m pretty sure it wasn’t far off a 2:1! I then went onto complete a bsc in mental health nursing where I received a 1st and an award. I have worked as a qualified mental health nurse for the past 8 years in a range of different settings including a research nurse post and camhs. I have always wanted to be a psychologist but I have always thought I wouldn’t get anywhere because of my 2:2 in psychology – I’m just wondering if you have any advice around this? I.e. Do I need to do a conversion masters, what are my chances of getting onto a doctorate, and do I need experience specifically as an assistant psychologist. Thanks a lot Lindsay

Hi Lindsay, thanks for reading and this positive feedback! Your situation is unusual and I don’t think there is a straightforward answer, however I have a few points and suggestions:

*You have a BPS accredited degree and as such you wouldn’t need to do a conversion masters. If you did a psychology masters however, this would strengthen an application *Some courses have a 2:2 as an exclusion criteria (they screen all these applications out). However, some of these courses would regard you as a mature student and so would not apply this criteria. As such I would encourage you to contact individual courses that you want to apply to, to find out how they would view your situation. *While your career as a mental health nurse would be viewed positively, many courses have a “bottom line” regarding the amount of time and experience you have in psychological therapies specifically. As such, I would encourage you to seek experience as an assistant psychologist or psychological well-being practitioner (you would need training for the latter role, but this is funded by the NHS).

I hope this information is useful and wish you the best of luck with your next steps.

Most of this would not fly in the US. Here is the short version from my experience: Undergraduate 4 years, masters 2 years, 1 year thesis research and internship, PH.D. 4-5 years, 1 year predoc plus research dissertation and 1 year postdoc internship. Overall, over 12 years of education, training and supervision and 2 board exams EPPP and CPLEE ethics exam to be a clinical psychologist.

Indeed, I am British and this blog is written for a British audience, not a US audience.

Your blog is very nice…

I found this article extremely helpful as I feel extremely disheartened at the moment when applying for a PhD in Clinical Psychology.

In short, I have a First Class Degree in BSc Psychology which is accredited by BPS. I am currently waiting to start my Masters in Developmental Disorders at University of Nottingham.

I had the opportunity to work as a Research Assistant with my Supervisor as my dissertation received funding. (Still awaiting data analysis but this is paused due to COVID19) I have worked as a Teaching Assistant in a behavioural school, I have worked as Mental Health Assistant in a secure unit. I am currently working as a Health Care Assistant in the NHS.

How did you find the application process? What experience did you have before you applied?

I feel like I’ve tried so hard getting to where I am now, the experience I have obtained but feel like this is just not good enough.

Megan Bale.

Hi Judith. I hope your well.

Great blog. Really great to read. I graduated in 2016 with a 2:2 in psychology. I didn’t complete a masters but I am currently training as a PWP in IAPT. I qualify in January and I am hoping to train as an accredited CBT therapist in a couple years.

Do you think I would have enough experience by then to strengthen my application, even though I got a 2:2? Do you know anyone who was in a similar position to me and got a place? I was 0.5 off a 2:1 (so annoying).

Hi Jess, I’ve approved your comment- hopefully someone with a similar experience will read and be able to offer advice. Good luck with your journey!

Come to the United States, the doctoral education and training requirements in clinical psychology is an entirely different ball game!

I’m not sure of the use of comparing UK and US clinical psychologists. US training for clinical psychologists tend to favour academic/research experience and the UK aims for as close a split as possible, arguably leaning towards slightly more clinical competencies, alongside clear skills in advanced research. Both have their strengths.The experience you described above would be similar to academic psychologists and their career paths (minus the clinical elements of course). The majority of trainees in the UK typically do a 3/4 year Psychology degree, with many doing academic Masters degrees/ postgraduate degrees/ Masters degrees with clinical placements alongside years of working in academia/a variety of clinical (inpatient and/or community settings). So the range of time it takes to qualify as a CP can range from an absolute minimum of 7 years to 15 + years.

merci pour vos efforts

http://virtuelcampus.univ-msila.dz/facdroitsp/ Thank you very much. Your article is very useful Merci pour ce partage et ce travail. Merci pour cet article très complet.

Hi Judith, This is a very informative guide. As an industrial chemist who wanted change to psychology, is there a future for me? Regards, Ron

Hi Ron, there is always a future 🙂 I’d suggest researching centres where you can do a conversion course for psychology and seeing what their entry requirements are. You might meet them already or you can at least find out what they would need from you first. Good luck with your next steps!

Thank you for this helpful article as I am looking for resources to support my friend who as has been having a hard time studying to this field. I should advice her that there are alternative disciplines she could still undertake such as pursuing Forensic Psychology which may be a more fulfilling career for her. She’s also worried about her EPPP and I believe it would not hurt for her to seek an expert tutor that help direct her on how to effectively study for it.

Thanks so much for your comment Claire! I’m glad it was useful.

Very useful information, thank you

Hello, thank you for the information

Merci en tout cas

Merci beaucoup pour vos efforts

Hello, thank you for the information Hello, thank you for the information

Thanks for sharing this.. Nice one

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Ph.D. Clinical Psychology

Ut tyler psychology and counseling, ph.d. clinical psychology (underserved populations), program brochure.

Program Objectives and Goals                                            

The Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the University of Texas at Tyler is a scientist-practitioner based program which provides high quality academic, research, and clinical training with under-served populations.  Our focus is on training students to work with veterans, in rural mental health settings, and in geropsychology.   Training in cultural diversity issues is infused throughout the curriculum.  Students will receive additional courses and clinical training in these 3 emphasis areas during their time in the program.   Students are mentored by clinical faculty in research and provide supervision of their clinical work along the way.  A thesis and dissertation are required.  Clinical training is provided in our on-campus clinic and in a number of agencies in the East Texas area.  Students receive a stipend /financial aid package that allows them to focus on their academic and professional goals and involve research and teaching activities.   Upon completion of our program, students will be able to become licensed psychologists and work in a variety of academic, medical, or clinical settings.   Since we are a new Ph.D. program, we are in the process of seeking contingent accreditation from APA.  Our program objectives are as follows: 

• Program graduates are trained as scientist-practitioners who have a diverse knowledge of the scientific and behavioral foundations of psychology.
• Program graduates are capable of developing, conducting, and reporting research knowledge through their own program of independent research.
• Program graduates are competent to assess, diagnose, and treat psychological disorders using evidence based practices.
• Program graduates are trained in ethics, diversity issues, and professional issues related to clinical practice and research.
• Program graduates have additional clinical and research training in underserved populations such as with military veterans, older adults, and persons in rural settings.

Our program values diversity with respect to gender, ethnicity, age, religious beliefs, and/or sexual orientation. We do not discriminate based on these factors regarding program admission or completion.

Questions can be directed to Ceselie Tobin, MS, LPC graduate admissions advisor, or Dr. Dennis Combs , director.

IMPORTANT UPDATE:  All admissions materials are due by January 15th, 2024 for the Fall 2024 cohort.

Frequently Asked Questions Residency Requirement

The UT Tyler Clinical Psychology PhD program is designed as a full-time, five-year program, including four years on campus and an off-site, doctoral internship year.  It may take students an average of between 5-6 years to complete our program to allow for additional clinical training experiences and to make progress on dissertation requirements prior to the doctoral internship.   The program requires a minimum of 3 full-time academic years of graduate study, at least 2 of which is completed in this program, and requires 1 year in full-time in residence.  The PhD degree is awarded after all program requirements are completed and conferred after completion of the doctoral internship.

Program Format 

The PhD program in Clinical Psychology is designed to be an in-person, face to face program.  We are not a fully on-line program and students must attend the program and classes in person.  In our program, the format for classes can vary by instructor which includes face to face, hybrid, and online formats.  We value in person learning as it provides for enhanced training and mentorship and results in a better student community.  Faculty can teach classes in different formats based on their needs and availability.   Practicum training is done in person with some provision for telesupervision and telehealth methods.  Teaching involves lectures, clinical and case examples, discussions, and electronically delivered methods to enhance learning. 

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Ph.D. Program

Students entering through the Integrated Biomedical Sciences program have the opportunity to study with research faculty from the School of Medicine and across USC.

All of our Ph.D. students enter through the Integrated Biomedical Sciences program that includes primary core courses and research rotations that allow you to decide the exact research you want to conduct.

Research Areas and Faculty Mentors

Choosing your research mentor and research area will be two of the biggest decisions you will make during your Ph.D. program. While we encourage you to have an idea of who you would like to work with before you apply, we also give you the opportunity to explore all your options. 

Admission and Application

Admission into our program is on a rolling basis with submissions opening in the Fall semester and decisions being made in the Spring semester.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition and financial aid information for students applying to and entering the Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. program.

PREP Program

USC PREP seeks to increase the number of applicants to biomedical graduate programs from under-represented communities by offering the opportunity to work for a year in a biomedical research laboratory while preparing for graduate school in the biomedical sciences.

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.

Charan Ranganath

Position Title Professor

• 530-757-8750
• [email protected]
• http://dml.ucdavis.edu/
• Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, Northwestern University
• M.S., Clinical Psychology, Northwestern University
• B.A., Psychology, University of California, Berkeley

In addition to his academic appointment in Psychology, Charan Ranganath is an affiliated faculty with the UC Davis Center for Neuroscience, which seeks to understand the function of the human brain in health and in illness. He is also director of the Dynamic Memory Lab at UC Davis and is an affiliated faculty with the Center for Mind and Brain. His research involves the use of functional neuroimaging, electrophysiology and behavioral methods to study the neural basis of human memory and executive control. He previously served as editor for the Cognitive Neuroscience Section of the journal NeuroImage , and currently serves as an editor for the Journal of Neuroscience , which is the most influential academically edited journal in the field of neuroscience. Professor Ranganath has consulted for government and private funding agencies from several countries and has served on review panels for the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation.

Research Focus

Professor Ranganath's research concerns the neurocognitive structure of human memory and executive control. One set of studies currently underway concerns the relationship between short-term, or working memory, and long-term memory. Results from event-related fMRI studies conducted by Professor Ranganath suggest that overlapping regions of the prefrontal cortex and medial temporal lobes are active during both working memory and long-term memory tasks. This research suggests that a common neural system supports both of these types of memory. Currently, Professor Ranganath is investigating how different regions within the prefrontal cortex and medial temporal lobes contribute to working and long-term memory through additional fMRI studies of healthy young adults and behavioral testing of patients with focal brain damage. A second, related area of interest is the role of prefrontal cortex in the control and evaluation of information in memory. Finally, in collaboration with Andy Yonelinas, Professor Ranganath is investigating the roles of different medial temporal lobe regions in recognition memory processes. To address this issue, he is conducting parallel studies using event-related fMRI and event-related brain potentials in healthy young and older adults and amnesic patients with medial temporal lobe damage. In collaboration with another research group, he is also conducting studies to examine field potentials recorded directly from the human hippocampal formation in patients performing recognition memory tasks.

Publications

• Hsieh, L. T., Gruber, M. J., Jenkins, L. J. , & Ranganath, C. (2014). Hippocampal activity patterns carry information about objects in temporal context. Neuron. 81(5):1165-78. PMID: 24607234
• Gruber, M. J., Gelman, B. , & Ranganath, C. (2014). States of curiosity modulate hippocampus-dependent learning via the mesolimbic dopaminergic circuit. Neuron. 84(2): 486-496. PMID: 25284006
• Ranganath, C., & Ritchey, M. (2012). Two cortical systems for memory guided behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience , 13: 713-726. PMID: 22992647
• Addante, R. J., Watrous, A. C. , Yonelinas, A. P. , Ekstrom, A. D. , & Ranganath, C. (2011). Pre-stimulus theta oscillations predict source memory retrieval. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , 108(26):10702-7.
• Axmacher, N., Cohen, M. S. , Fell, J. , Haupt, S. , Elger, C. E., Schlaepfer, T. E., Lenartz, D. , Sturm, V. , & Ranganath, C. (2010). Intracranial EEG correlates of expectancy and memory formation in the human hippocampus and nucleus accumbens. Neuron , 65, 541‚Äì549.

Professor Ranganath has taught courses in Human Learning, Fundamentals of Cognitive Neuroimaging and Current Research in Psychology.

Professor Ranganath’s work has been recognized with several awards, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, Leverhulme Trust Visiting Professorship at the University of Cambridge, the Laird Cermak Award from the Memory Disorders Research Society, the Samuel Sutton Award for Distinguished Scientific Contribution to Human ERPs and Cognition, the Chancellor’s Fellow award from UC Davis, and the Young Investigator Award from the Cognitive Neuroscience Society. In 2015, he was one of 11 researchers in the United States to receive a National Security Science and Engineering Faculty Fellowship. His research has been funded by grants from the Department of Defense, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and several private foundations.

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Companion Animal Hospital in Ithaca, NY for cats, dogs, exotics, and wildlife

Equine and Nemo Farm Animal Hospitals in Ithaca, NY for horses and farm animals

Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists, on Long Island for every horse

Ambulatory and Production Medicine for service on farms within 30 miles of Ithaca, NY

Animal Health Diagnostic Center New York State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

General Information

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Ithaca, New York 14853-6401

Jordyn Boesch, DVM, PhD, DACVAA

Department of Clinical Sciences

Diplomate - american college of veterinary anesthesia and analgesia, associate clinical professor, section of anesthesiology and pain medicine section chief.

Department of Clinical Sciences Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine 930 Campus Road, Box 32 Ithaca, NY 14853 Office: 607.253.3060 Fax: 607.253.3497 Email: [email protected]

Research/Clinical Interest

Research interests include pain assessment and management in all species, particularly interventional pain medicine and chronic pain management, and anesthesia of zoo animals and wildlife.

Education and Training

• 2010   Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Hospital for Animals, Residency in Anesthesiology
• 2007   Rotating small animal internship, Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital and Referral Group
• 2006   Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, DVM
• 2002   University of Massachusetts, BS Animal Science, concentration in pre-veterinary medicine

Dr. Boesch is a 2006 graduate of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.  She completed a residency in anesthesiology at Cornell in 2010 receiving the Veterinary Class of 1954 Clinical Resident Award.  She was subsequently appointed Assistant Clinical Professor of Veterinary Anesthesia at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, and returned to Cornell as a Lecturer in the Section of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine in 2013.  In addition to her lectureship duties she is also currently a PhD candidate with the Department of Paraclinical Sciences at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.  Dr. Boesch focuses her research on pain and its management, particularly interventional and chronic pain management, as well as the physiology, pathophysiology and pharmacology of captured wildlife.  Her interest in anesthesia and pain management applies to all species.

In 2015 Dr. Boesch received the SAVMA Teaching Excellence Award in Clinical Sciences. She is a member of the International Society for the Study of Pain, International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management, and a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia (DACVAA). She serves as faculty advisor for the Student Chapter of the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management.

Publications

Awards and Honors

2015   SAVMA Teaching Excellence Award in Clinical Sciences

2012   Phi Zeta National Veterinary Honor Society

2010   Veterinary Class of 1954 Clinical Resident Award

2006   Isidor Sprecher Wildlife Medicine Award

Professional/Academic Affiliations

• Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia

International Association for the Study of Pain

International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management