university of michigan clinical psychology phd

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• Scholarships
• Frequently Asked Questions

Master of Science in Clinical Health Psychology

The behavioral sciences department at university of michigan-dearborn offers a master of science (ms) in clinical health psychology..

The Master's of Science in Clinical Health Psychology is a two-year 48-credit program that trains mental health care providers to work in primary care settings, as well as more traditional clinical psychology settings.

Prospective Students

Our program requires:

• a BA/BS in Psychology or a related major (minimum GPA 3.0)
• undergraduate courses in Introductory Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Statistics
• three letters of recommendation
• personal statement
• letters from academic sources are expected and strongly preferred

For more information about the programs and our policies please see the  MS in Psychology Student Handbook  or email the program.

Admission Requirements

• A BA or BS degree in Psychology or a related field with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0
• Undergraduate classes in Introductory Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Statistics required; Health Psychology and Research Methods recommended but not required
• The Psychology (MS) program has decided to waive the GRE score requirement indefinitely.
• If English not your native language, official scores from an accepted English Proficiency exam are required. Please see further information on our How to Apply page.
• Personal statement instructions for Clinical Health Psychology.
• Three  letters of recommendation  (at least two of which are academic) are needed.

Application Deadline

M.S. in Psychology admits for fall term onlyhas a hard application deadline of the March 15th prior to the August/September start of the term.

Transferring Credit from Other Institutions

Up to six credit hours of graduate credit may be transferred from another accredited institution. A petition for a course from another institution to meet one of the requirements of the MS in Psychology: Specialization in Clinical Health Psychology or the MS in Psychology: Specialization in Health Psychology program will be considered by the Graduate Program Committee if:

• A copy of the course syllabus is provided.
• The course is similar to the course for which it is being substituted (i.e., similar in terms of level, content, grading methods).
• The course was taken in the past five years from a university and program judged to be of high quality.
• The course was passed with an ‘A’ or ‘B.’
• The grade was determined primarily on the basis of papers, presentations, and/or examinations.

Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarships for new and current graduate students:

Graduate Student Scholarships  (main page)

Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship Application

You may be eligible for a non-resident graduate tuition scholarship if you meet the following criteria:

• Classified as a non-resident graduate student (or new admit) in a CASL graduate program taking 500+ level courses.
• Meet the program’s eligibility requirements for merit: 3.0 cumulative undergrad GPA (for new incoming students); 3.2 cumulative graduate GPA (to maintain for continuing students).
• Enroll for a minimum of 6 credit hours per term (3 credit hours in the summer or final term of enrollment).
• Have continued successful academic performance and progress towards completion of the degree and no academic misconduct convictions to assure continuation of the scholarship.
• This scholarship is awarded for consecutive fall and winter terms and the initial amount displayed in the student portal assumes a 6 credit hour registration. If a student enrolls in additional credit hours, an additional amount will be disbursed at the term’s drop/add deadline.
• Scholars may elect to use the scholarship during the summer term. However, a  separate Summer Financial Aid application  must be submitted.  

Clinical Health Psychology Student Admission Data

Current Students

See the  Advanced Psychology Research Guide  for help doing research for your courses, research projects, and theses.

Research Scholarship

Support for graduate student research projects and/or conference presentation is offered through the Office of Research.  For more information, visit the Campus Grants page .

• Graduate Independent Study Form
• Thesis/Project Chair Contract
• Thesis Proposal Defense Form
• Thesis Defense Form
• Application to Transfer to the Clinical Health Concentration
• Application to Transfer to the Health Concentration
• Faculty and Student Guide to Graduate Thesis
• Plan of Work

Program Director: Caleb Siefert

Master of science in psychology faculty, examples of students' thesis projects, the role of self - efficacy in the variation of health outcomes late in life, from culture to the individual: understanding perceptions of and reactions to sexual assault, effect of knowledge on evaluations of palliative care as an appropriate treatment intervention, office of graduate studies.

Ph.D. in Psychology: Clinical

Wayne State's Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology offers intensive training in clinical neuropsychology and child/adolescent clinical psychology, with additional opportunities in clinical health psychology, clinical/community psychology, substance abuse/dependence and trauma psychology. Our extensive network of affiliated faculty and facilities provides research and clinical training in many other areas, including infant mental health, gerontology, rehabilitation, forensics and primary care.

View program faculty

View curriculum

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Our students are prepared first as psychologists, second as clinical psychologists and third as clinical psychologists with specific expertise. Thus, all students receive a) discipline-specific knowledge in the broad areas of psychology, b) didactic and clinical training in psychopathology, ethics, assessment and intervention across the age range and with diverse populations and c) focused training in a specific minor area or concentration.

Our clinical psychology graduates routinely take positions of leadership and innovation in dealing with clinical problems within the context of the individual, family and community. Our urban setting and commitment to addressing the needs of the underserved allow us to offer clinical training and research opportunities in numerous clinical settings with a wide variety of health problems across a broad spectrum of socioeconomic, ethnic and cultural populations.

Ever since its initial accreditation by the APA in 1960, the Wayne State University Ph.D. program in clinical psychology has been widely recognized as a leader in the scientist-practitioner tradition. We proudly follow that model, as we educate highly skilled psychologists who competently provide a broad range of professional services, contribute to scientific development by conducting research and disseminate knowledge effectively by educating and training others.

View student admissions, outcomes and other data

Fall 2024 incoming class

We expect to recruit seven or eight new students into the clinical psychology program for fall 2024. These core clinical psychology faculty are open to recruiting new graduate students:

• Christopher Trentacosta
• Emily Grekin
• Mark Lumley
• Valerie Simon

In addition, these faculty in other areas of the Department of Psychology are open to mentoring the research of graduate students who are in the clinical psychology program. Students working with one of these faculty have a clinical area faculty member on their mentoring team to serve as a clinical area advisor:

• Olivenne Skinner
• Ty Partridge

These clinical psychology faculty are not recruiting students:

• Douglas Barnett
• John Woodard
• Lisa Rapport

Note that the GRE General Test and psychology subtest will be accepted as optional or supplementary material to your application for fall 2024 admission. You may submit one or both sets of scores for consideration if you wish. We will review all applications, with or without GRE scores.

Our admissions interviews will be scheduled for mid to late February 2024. We have not yet decided whether interviews will be held in person or remotely. If interviews are remote, applicants who are offered admission will be able to visit the campus prior to making their decision if they wish.

View graduate admissions info

Concentrations in clinical psychology

Our program has long been a national leader in clinical neuropsychology training. We are affiliated with APA Division 40 (neuropsychology) and provide education that is consistent with the Houston conference guidelines for training in clinical neuropsychology. Our program collaborates with Wayne State's Institute of Gerontology and is a member of the Council of Professional Gerontology Training Programs.

Students interested in this concentration are expected to complete courses in the biological basis of behavior, clinical neuropsychology, neuropsychological assessment and may take other courses such as neuroscience and neuroanatomy. These students receive clinical neuropsychology training at various placements in the Detroit area, such as the Rehabilitation Institute of Medicine, Ann Arbor VA, the University of Michigan Medical Center, Beaumont Hospital, Henry Ford Hospital and Children's Hospital, where they are supervised by neuropsychologists. Research related to neuropsychology is usually mentored by Drs. Lisa Rapport or John Woodard (and occasionally by Peter Lichtenberg ) and for those interested in child/pediatric neuropsychology, by Dr. Sarah Raz .

Our program is a member of the Clinical Child and Pediatric Psychology Training Council (CCaPPTC) . Students who wish to pursue a career working with children or adolescents typically complete advanced courses in child psychopathology and various courses related to developmental psychology.

A dual-title Ph.D. in Infant Mental Health is also available. Students receive clinical training at the Children's Center, General Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine (GPAM), Project Challenge at Children's Hospital, Hawthorn Center, The Guidance Center and several private or group practices run by our alumni. Student research in child clinical psychology is usually mentored by Drs. Douglas Barnett , Christopher Trentacosta or Valerie Simon , as well as developmental psychologist, Marjorie Beeghly .

Other training foci

Our program is a member of the Council of Clinical Health Psychology Training Programs (CCHPTP). Students who wish to pursue careers in medically-oriented settings or health-related problems typically will take Health Psychology I and II and Biological Bases of Health Psychology. These students receive clinical training (and often conduct outside research) at Beaumont Family Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Beaumont Pain Clinic and Wayne State Life Stress Center. Student research in health psychology is usually mentored by Dr. Mark Lumley as well as social health psychologist, Dr. Samuele Zilioli .

Students wishing to focus on community-based problems such as homelessness, poverty, serious mental illness and related issues will usually complete Community Psychology or Theories and Methods of Program Evaluation, as well as courses outside the department (e.g., public health). These students receive clinical training in setting such as the Michigan Forensic Center, the Wayne State Counseling and Psychological Services center and local community mental health organizations. Student research is usually mentored by Dr. Paul Toro .

Students interested in this topic usually conduct research with Dr. Emily Grekin and possibly with other departmental faculty such as social psychologists Antonia Abbey , Catalina Kopetz , or Tim Bogg . Clinical training is typically conducted at Wayne State's Tolan Park Substance Abuse Program, which usually includes clinical research opportunities. Coursework in addictions can be taken in the psychiatry department.

General info

Majoring in clinical psychology encompasses:

• Discipline-specific knowledge about the biological, social, cognitive, affective and developmental bases of behavior, along with the history of psychology.
• Profession-wide competencies, including professional ethics, psychopathology, psychological assessment, psychological interventions, supervision and consultation and research methods and statistics.
• Clinical training at our in-house Psychology Clinic , external placements and an accredited predoctoral internship
• Research training in faculty laboratories and sometimes at external training sites.

All of the above are conducted with substantial exposure to and training in individual and cultural diversity, ethical and legal standards and communication and interpersonal skills.

Admission to our clinical psychology Ph.D. program is competitive. Each year, we receive about 200 to 250 applications, interview about 35 applicants and admit about 10 to 14 applicants to obtain an incoming class of seven or eight students. Admitted applicants' undergraduate (or master's program) GPAs are always above 3.0 (and usually much higher) and they show evidence of strong language and writing skills as well as quantitative abilities (e.g., good grades in statistics or other math courses or evidence or statistical skill in their research).

Although we are a scientist-practitioner program, we are more research-oriented than many programs that follow this model; thus, experience in conducting research and interest in continuing to do so are vital and weighed heavily in admissions . Student match with our program's philosophy and with specific faculty research areas are also very important considerations. Potential applicants should consider the interests and expertise of our faculty, compare them to their own educational goals and discuss this in their personal statement as well as identify potential mentors of interest on the application portal .

Three letters of recommendation should provide us with valuable information about applicants' past level of achievement, their potential for excellence in academic, research, clinical settings and their emotional and interpersonal maturity to become a clinician.

It's important to note that we review applicants' entire portfolio to obtain a holistic picture of their backgrounds and unique characteristics . We seek applicants who demonstrate not only strong academic, research and clinical potential, but also initiative, resilience and leadership characteristics. We seek applicants who are committed to improving the lives of urban populations, including ethnic/racial minorities and the socioeconomically disadvantaged.  We also encourage applications from individuals whose backgrounds are under-represented in clinical psychology .

The program is year-round, intensive and full-time ; students often spend 60+ hours per week in program-related activities. Most of our students spend five years in residence before conducting a year-long internship in their sixth year, at the end of which they graduate. Students entering with a master's degree in psychology may spend one year less in the program (i.e., four years in residence and one year on internship). The department strives to ensure that all students who are making good progress are funded (a stipend plus almost all of their tuition) for the first four years and students are routinely funded in their fifth year as well.

The Clinical Psychology Graduate Student Handbook provides extensive information about our program. We invite you to review this to learn more about our program. Applicants who are made an offer of admission to our program are expected to read this handbook and endorse its content (including ethics policies) as a condition of admission.

As a member of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Training (CUDCP), our program adheres to CUDCP's policies and guidelines for graduate school admissions, offers and acceptance. For additional information about these policies, see the summary of CUDCP policy . More information about clinical psychology and application tips also can be found at clinicalpsychgradschool.org , offered by CUDCP.

The Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at Wayne State University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association through 2028. Questions related to the program's accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

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

Alia Allen , academic services officer III [email protected] ,  313-577-2823

Career insights

This tool provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills, or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.

Department of Psychology College of Social Science

Clinical science.

Welcome to the Clinical Science area at Michigan State University!

Continuously accredited by the American Psychological Association since 1948, we are deeply rooted in the field of Clinical Science education and research. Our graduates have gone on to be leaders and innovators in the field of psychological clinical science. We are very proud of the varied paths they have chosen and the many ways in which they have contributed to clinical psychological science.

Graduate College

Psychology: clinical psychology (ph.d.),   application deadlines.

  For Fall semester: December 1.

  Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) is required; please submit within the online application system.

  Graduate test

The GRE is currently being waived until further notice.

Note: International applicants may have to provide evidence of English language proficiency. More information can be found within the online application.

  Recommendations

This program requires three recommendations letters.

Please send emails requests for such letters from within the online system, and specifically request that your recommenders complete both the ratings checklist AND attach a letter of recommendation.

  Written statement

Please prepare a statement which covers the following information, and attach it within the online application:

Summarize your experiences in academic, professional, research, creative, or scholarly activities, and indicate how these experiences make you an ideal candidate for graduate study in your selected program. Also address how these activities align with the strengths of your chosen program and faculty, and with your professional goals, including future job positions. This statement (double-spaced and between 500 – 1500 words) should demonstrate your communication skills and writing competence.

  Previous written work

Please attach a writing sample within the online application, with this sample being a maximum of 20 pages (e.g., publication, portion of honor’s thesis, presentation, class paper).

  Other program materials

Complete the supplemental questions asked in the online application.

  Transcript requirement

An official transcript from the institution from which you received your bachelor degree is required, as well as a transcript from the institution(s) where any additional graduate level courses or degrees have been taken/completed. Applicants are not required to submit an official transcript of courses taken/completed at WMU.

  Additional information

If you have any questions, please review the website below for program and contact information.

Department of Psychology — College of Arts and Sciences

Start my application now

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• Clinical Psychology

The Clinical Psychology Program at Duke University is a Ph.D. program for students seeking excellence in academic, scientific, and clinical training.

This program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). Our program has a strong history of training based on the scientist/practitioner (Boulder) model and more recently has adopted a clinical science model of training in which the science of psychology and its clinical application are mutually interdependent and mutually evolving.

The Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology at Duke University has been accredited by the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation since 1948.

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

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 First Street NE Washington, DC 20002-4242 Telephone: (202) 336-5979   Email:  [email protected]   Web:  www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

Questions about the Duke clinical program itself should be directed to Director of Clinical Training - Moria Smoski, PhD,  [email protected] , (919) 684-6717

Additional Information

The Clinical Psychology Program at Duke University is a Ph.D. program for students seeking excellence in academic, scientific, and clinical training. This program is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). Our program has a strong history of scientist practitioner (Boulder) model and more recently has adopted a clinical science model of training in which the science of psychology and its clinical application are mutually interdependent and mutually evolving. That is, our program is designed to train clinical scientists who are capable of functioning successfully in academic, research, clinical, and community settings. Within this multifaceted training framework, we seek to develop students who are interested in careers in which the science of psychology is applied to address public health issues related to mental and physical diseases both nationally and internationally. The program is not appropriate for students interested solely in clinical practice and not in research. Rather, we strive for excellence in both the science and practice of clinical psychology.

At Duke, graduate training in clinical psychology emphasizes three domains of knowledge: adult clinical, child clinical, and health psychology. The expertise of the faculty, drawn from the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience and the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in the Duke University Medical Center, extends to a large number of interdisciplinary problems involving human behavioral and physical adaptation in its varying social contexts. Duke University’s Clinical Psychology Program is annually ranked among the top clinical psychology programs in the United States. Duke’s doctoral program in Clinical Psychology is a member of The Academy of Psychological Clinical Science, which is a coalition of doctoral training programs that share a common goal of producing and applying scientific knowledge to the understanding, assessment, and amelioration of human problems.

Specific interests include intervention and prevention methods across the life course for such phenomena as aggression and antisocial behavior, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders and obesity, substance abuse, HIVAIDS, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pain. Our faculty also study behavioral cardiology, behavioral medicine, global mental health, reducing disparities in minority mental and physical health services, assessment and intervention in pediatric psychology, and gene-environment interaction.

Clinical program faculty are also actively involved in University Institutes, including the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences (DIBS) , Social Science Research Institute (SSRI) , and Duke Global Health Institute (DGHI) .

Each year the Department admits 2-5 clinical graduate students, which will result in approximately 25 students being advised by our faculty at one time. As of August, 2023, our faculty advise a total of 23 students receiving clinical training, (8 males and 15 females, 6 of whom are from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups).

In accordance with American Psychological Association requirements, a more complete description of the clinical program's goals, clinical training resources, and special requirements can be found in the on-line Clinical Graduate Student Handbook.

The Duke Psychology Clinic has been providing psychological services to the Triangle community for over twenty years and is committed to working with adults who are seeking services for a range of psychological and adjustment difficulties. As part of the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Duke University , the Clinic functions as a training center for the Ph.D. program in clinical psychology. Psychotherapy is provided by advanced graduate students who are supervised by experienced clinicians. With our commitment to training and intensive supervision, the Clinic is dedicated to providing high-quality care to our clients.

The Duke Psychology Clinic offers short- and long-term individual psychotherapy for adults seeking treatment for a range of psychological difficulties. The Clinic treats a wide-range of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, inattentiveness/hyperactivity, self-esteem, eating concerns, relationship difficulties, adjustment, and coping with stressors. In addition, the Clinic has a long-standing reputation in the community for effectively assisting individuals who have experienced traumatic events. Therapeutic work is individually-focused and clinicians work with their supervisors to tailor treatment to the needs of each client. The treatment approach utilized integrates principles from a range of evidence-based treatments in order to best address the client’s presenting concerns, including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and interpersonal approaches.

• Respected community reputation in the treatment of mental health concerns

• Affordable session fees

• Convenient location and flexible hours

• Assessment to further tailor treatment

• Availability of long-term treatment 
• Enthusiastic therapists receiving supervision from experienced clinicians

Obtaining Services

Services are available to individuals throughout the community. Those seeking services or who would like to make a referral should begin by calling a Clinic Coordinator, (919) 660-5771. Because the Clinic is a training center, utmost care is taken to ensure we can provide appropriate services; clients in crisis or in need of a higher level of care are typically referred to a more suitable clinic.

The Clinic is located in Suite 312 of the Psychology/Sociology building on Duke's West Campus .

During the academic year, clinic hours are 9a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays. Hours are slightly abbreviated during the summer months.

Timothy Strauman, Ph.D. Director, Duke Psychology Clinic Professor, Department of Psychology & Neuroscience Licensed Psychologist

David Rabiner, Ph.D. Research Professor, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Licensed Psychologist & Supervisor

Moria Smoski, Ph.D. Director of Clinical Training, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Licensed Psychologist

Rachel Guetta Graduate Student, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Clinic Coordinator

Current Practicum Supervisors

• David Rabiner 
• Melanie Bonner 
• Sarah Cook 
• Geraldine Dawson 
• Christian Mauro 
• Rhonda Merwin 
• Zach Rosenthal
• Moria Smoski
• Tamara Somers
• Rebecca Shelby 
• Julia Woodward
• Nancy Zucker
• Naomi Davis 
• John Mitchell 
• Julia Schacter  
• Sarah O’Rourke 
• Kyla Blalock 
• Nicole Heilbron 
• David Goldston 
• Jill Howard  
• Adrienne Inscoe
• Ashley Hill

Practicum descriptions

Internships:.

• Alpert Medical School of Brown University
• Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital
• Cambridge Hospital, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
• Central Regional Hospital, Butner, NC
• Children’s Hospital, Boston, Harvard University, Boston, MA
• Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
• Children's Hospital at Stanford / Children's Health Council
• Clarke Institute (Center for Addiction and Mental Health), Toronto, Ontario
• Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH
• Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
• Emory, Atlanta, GA
• Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
• McLean Hospital, Harvard University, Belmont, MA
• Medical University of South Carolina (Charleston Consortium), Charleston, SC
• Miami/Dade County Department of Human Services, Miami, FL
• Miami Veterans Administration Health Care System, Miami, FL
• Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY
• MUSC/Charleston Consortium Internship
• Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH
• New York Univesity/Bellevue Hospital
• North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Administration Medical Center, Gainesville, FL
• Rush University Medical Center
• University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ
• University of California-Los Angeles
• University of California-San Diego/Veterans Affairs, San Diego, CA
• University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
• University of Colorado Health Center, Boulder, CO
• University of Florida Health Science Center, Gainesville, FL
• University of Kansas Medical School
• University of Michigan/Rackham Institute
• University of Mississippi Medical/VA Jackson
• University of New Mexico Health Science Center
• University of North Carolina Medical School, Chapel Hill, NC
• University of Pennsylvania, Department of Psychiatry
• University of Texas Health Science Center - Houston
• University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
• University of Wisconsin Medical Center, Madison, WI
• Veterans Administration Medical Center, Durham, NC
• Veterans Administration Maryland Health Care System/Univ. of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
• Veterans Administration Medical Center, Northport, NY
• Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
• Veterans Administration Medical Center, Salem, VA
• Veterans Administration Puget Sound-American Lake, Tacoma, WA
• Virginia Treatment Center for Children, Virginia Commonwealth Univ., Richmond, VA
• Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA

NOTE: Our program has made the GRE General Test  optional  for admission to the fall 2024 class. You may submit scores if you have them, and they will be considered by the admissions committee. Applications without GRE scores will be given equal consideration. 

Each year we receive between 350 and 400 completed applications for admission to our clinical psychology program. A variety of bases for admission are utilized, although some common themes emerge. In our search for qualified graduate students, we look for the potential to conduct original research, to engage in scholarship, to work effectively with others, including future clients, and to have an impact on the broader field of clinical psychology. We seek applicants who are interested both in research and in clinical practice. It is important for applicants to consider and to articulate potential matches with the research interests of one or more potential faculty mentors. While an undergraduate integrative psychology major is not required, most of our students were psychology majors, and most had post-baccalaureate research experience in psychology prior to application. Every year about 20 applicants are contacted for virtual interviews with our faculty. Interviews are required for clinical applicants. Interviews take place in late January - early February with invitations extended a few weeks prior to interviews.

All students accepted into the program are guaranteed five years of stipend support, as well as full tuition. Stipends may be based on fellowships, research or teaching assistant positions, or, for more senior students, their own external research support.

Applicants: Please see our Departmental Application FAQ .

Our program follows a mentorship model in which students are admitted to work with specific faculty members for their research training. 

Admitting students for the fall 2024 class

• David Goldston (Need to type in name on application)
• Timothy Strauman

Not admitting students for the fall 2024 class

• Gary Bennett
• Melanie Bonner
• Ernestine Briggs-King
• Karen Appleyard Carmody
• Scott Compton
• Francis Keefe
• Terrie Moffitt

Students and faculty in the Clinical Psychology Program established the Anti-Racism Community (ARC) in July 2020 as a response to the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, the rampant police brutality at subsequent nationwide protests, and the preceding 401-year legacy of anti-Black racism in the United States. The mission of the ARC is to:

• Establish an anti-racist culture in all activities conducted by students, faculty, and staff
• Acknowledge the impact of centuries of systemic and individual racism at the national, statewide, and university levels, and
• Take all possible corrective action to eliminate these effects on our program

ARC members meet monthly to provide general updates and make requests for assistance in completing tasks. Currently, members of the ARC are organized into three Pillars. Members are welcome to join one or more Pillar based on their interests. Each Pillar meets separately to coordinate and work on their specific goals and actions. The goals of the three Pillars are to

Pillar 1 : Enhance recruitment and retention of BIPOC faculty, students, and staff that reflect national demographics

Pillar 2 : Ensure all academic activities reflect anti-racism as a core value of the program

Pillar 3 : Elevate multicultural awareness as a core competency of clinical training and professional development for all faculty, students, and staff

The ARC is an action-oriented community. Below are a few of the actions taken by the ARC since its inception:

• Creation of the Clinical Science Anti-Racism Series , a set of presentations and discussions on the ways clinical practice, research, and professional issues is informed by anti-racist approaches
• Launch an annual  Virtual Office Hours program , an opportunity for individuals underrepresented in psychology to receive individualized feedback on their applications to PhD programs in psychology
• Hosted a weekly writing group for faculty, post-docs, and graduate students, especially those from underrepresented communities and those looking to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within our department
• Establishment of Peer Multicultural Consultation Team , a monthly meeting during which students seek culturally-informed perspectives from other students on diverse patients
• Evaluation of all P&N undergraduate syllabi for content that supports inclusion, reduction of "hidden curriculum" elements, and anti-racist principles. Provided feedback to the P&N Faculty with resources for improving DEI principles in syllabi
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• Department of Psychology >
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Clinical PhD Program

For information regarding the online application and admissions process, please visit the UB Graduate School. 

• UB's General Admission Requirements
• Admissions FAQs
• Check Your Admissions Status

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Admission Requirements and Process

The Department of Psychology at the University at Buffalo uses a holistic admissions process in our consideration of applications.  This means that we evaluate the entire application, rather than any single indicator or a few indicators. Thus, applicants are viewed as a whole person, the sum of their experiences, accomplishments, and aspirations. Consistent with this, we do not rely on or use “cut offs” for numerical indices of an academic record such as grade point average. A holistic approach also means that a candidate who may be less strong in some areas, can still have a highly competitive application by having greater strength in other areas. All elements of an application are taken into consideration, to maximize a good fit of the applicant with our training program and potential mentors, to reduce bias that can result from reliance on a limited number of components, and to reduce inequities in access to opportunities for graduate training. 

Over the years, we have learned that a holistic admissions process helps us identify applicants who are likely to succeed in our graduate programs, brings a diversity of experience and ideas into our academic community, and supports a fair review of all applicants. Our goal is to recruit the next generation of academic psychologists who are passionate about making new discoveries and generating new knowledge in their chosen discipline.  We expect students to bring hard work, professional ambition, resilience, grit, intellectual acumen, and enthusiasm to our graduate programs.

Although we value quantitative criteria like GPA, we take a broad view of academic excellence and recognize that indices of success in our graduate programs and professional achievement cannot be reduced to numbers alone. In short, we endeavor to balance quantitative and qualitative indices of success. Because we want to give students the greatest opportunity to thrive in our program, we place a strong emphasis on fit with our programs and potential faculty mentors. A highly qualified applicant may not be strongly considered if their interests and goals do not provide a good fit with the orientation of our training program or with faculty research interests. Accordingly, we consider the following components in our admissions decisions: personal statement, undergraduate transcript and GPA (and prior graduate record if applicable), letters of recommendation, and resume/research experience. Interviews are required for applicants to the Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical, and Social-Personality doctoral programs, and our MA programs in General Psychology; interviews are not required for applicants to the Cognitive Psychology doctoral program. After initial review of applications, the selected applicants to programs requiring an interview will be contacted by prospective advisors to set up an interview time.

Schomburg statements are optional for applicants to our doctoral programs interested in being considered for a Schomburg Fellowship. These statements are not used for admissions decisions.

Clinical PhD Program:

Components of the application and how they are used, personal statement (required).

Helps contextualize the more quantitative and objective credentials of an applicant.  The statement is used to evaluate the applicant’s goals and fit with the program and research interests of the faculty as well as how they would contribute to the diversity of thought and perspectives.

Prompt for Personal Statement (1000 words or less):

Describe the area of research you are interested in pursuing during your graduate studies and explain how our program would help you achieve your intellectual goals. The statement should include your academic background, intellectual interests and training or research experience that has prepared you for our program. The statement should also identify specific faculty members whose research interests align with your own interests.

Submitting Personal Statement:

Uploaded as part of the online application.

Transcript and GPA (required)

Provides evidence that the applicant is seeking challenging coursework, while excelling and showing academic growth. The University at Buffalo requires an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.  However, applications with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 can still be considered, particularly when other components of the application are strong (e.g., a high graduate GPA, etc.). 

Submitting transcripts:

Upload scanned copies of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts as part of your online application.  Include the English translation, if applicable. 

Letters of recommendation (3 required):

Provides a third-party endorsement of the applicant’s attributes, ability to succeed in the graduate program, and potential to contribute to the field.  The letter offers a perspective on the applicant’s prior achievements and potential to succeed, along with concrete examples of the subjective traits described in other elements of the application.

Submitting Letters:

Letters must be submitted electronically. Further instructions are included in the online application.

Resume and research experience (required):

Provides information on how the applicant has practically applied ideas and concepts learned in the classroom. It helps show that applicants possess the skills and dispositions needed to conduct extensive research and make substantive contributions to their chosen field.

Submitting resume

Interviews are a way for programs to get to know applicants as a person.  They provide a qualitative means of: (a) contextualizing quantitative and objective credentials, and (b) evaluating how well an applicant’s goals and training needs fit with the program and potential mentors. In addition, the Clinical PhD program also uses the interview to evaluate suitability for clinical work.

Schomburg Statement (optional Applications to our doctoral program):

What is a schomburg fellowship.

A Schomburg Fellowship offers support for students in doctoral programs who can demonstrate that they would contribute to the diversity of the student body, especially those who can demonstrate that they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education. In order to be eligible for the Schomburg Fellowship, you need to be either a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident and have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above. 

Here is a link to more information about Schomburg Fellowships.

https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/current-students/funding-your-degree/graduate-awards-fellowships/schomburg-fellowship.html

The Schomburg statement provides useful information in helping the faculty decide whether to nominate an applicant for the Schomburg Fellowship.

Schomburg Statement:

If you would like to be considered for a Schomburg Fellowship, please  upload a written statement with your online application  (maximum of 500 words) describing how you will contribute to the diversity of the student body in your graduate program, including by having overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education.  Please note that such categorical circumstances may include academic, vocational, social, physical or economic impediments or disadvantaged status you have been able to overcome, as evidenced by your performance as an undergraduate, or other characteristics that constitute categorical underrepresentation in your particular graduate program such as gender or racial/ethnic status.

Submitting a Schomburg statement:

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Make a Difference with a Master’s in Clinical Professional Counseling

• Healthcare and Science |

Mental health service providers are needed now more than ever to tackle our nation’s growing mental health crisis. The shortage of qualified professional helpers is calculated to extend into 2036, according to the Health Resources and Services Administration . According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics , rates of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselor jobs are projected to grow 18 percent from 2022 to 2032, with an average of 42,000 jobs opening each year.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) has committed to filling this gap by introducing a new program: the Master of Science in Clinical Professional Counseling (MSCPC). This 60-credit program provides students with fundamental skills, knowledge, and competencies that support counseling licensure. UMGC’s first cohort will begin in fall 2024, and the program will be offered to Maryland residents for the 2024-2025 academic year with plans to expand in the future.

“The clinical professional counseling program at UMGC prioritizes practical and applied skills, equipping students with a diverse set of counseling techniques, emphasizing ethical and legal considerations, and providing training in psychological assessment and diagnosis,” says Phyllis Medina, PhD, program director for the MSCPC program. “The goal is to prepare graduates for licensure and successful practice as independent and effective counselors in various mental health settings.”

UMGC learners grow in their confidence and capabilities through 700 hours of supervised practicum and internship experiences. This gives students the opportunity to perform the work of a counselor under the guidance and supervision of an experienced practitioner.

What is the difference between a master’s degree in clinical professional counseling (MSCPC) and other psychology master’s degrees?

An MSCPC degree prepares students for careers as licensed professional counselors. MSCPC training extends beyond coursework to include supervised clinical fieldwork experiences. During practicum and internships, students apply their knowledge in real-world settings and practice their interviewing, case conceptualization, and therapy skills in an ethical, culturally informed, scientifically supported way under the direct supervision of a licensed professional.

While supervised, in-the-field practicum experiences set a master’s in clinical professional counseling program apart from non-clinical psychology master’s degrees, allowing MSCPC students to learn the fundamentals through focused coursework. Courses in the program emphasize current best practices in counseling theory, psychotherapy practice, assessment methods, cross-cultural and trauma-informed care, and ethical standards.

What careers could a master’s in clinical professional counseling help prepare you for?

With licensure, a master's in clinical professional counseling graduate is equipped for various careers. Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs) can establish private practices, provide therapy in mental health clinics, or take on leadership roles as clinic directors or clinical managers in healthcare settings.

Experienced LCPCs may become clinical supervisors, training the next generation of effective and ethical counselors. LCPCs can work as trauma therapists, forensic counselors, and military and veteran counselors. Additionally, LCPCs can work as Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselors, offering short-term support to employees, or serve as community mental health counselors, addressing the mental health needs of diverse local populations.

The growing field of telehealth also opens opportunities for LCPCs to provide online counseling services, while those with specialized training in addiction can work as addiction counselors in rehabilitation centers or outpatient clinics dedicated to substance abuse treatment.

“Counseling provides a safe space for individuals to explore their emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns,” says Medina. “By offering fresh perspectives and understanding, counseling can lead to improved mood and better management of mental health conditions.”

Does a master’s in clinical professional counseling prepare you to become a therapist?

The master’s in clinical professional counseling program intentionally prepares students for careers as therapists.

“Overall, a master's in clinical professional counseling is a recognized and common pathway for individuals seeking to become licensed therapists,” says Medina. “At UMGC, this program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical training necessary to provide therapeutic interventions and support for individuals dealing with various mental health issues and life challenges."

Upon completing a master's in clinical professional counseling and fulfilling any additional state-specific licensing requirements, one can pursue licensure (e.g., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor or similar titles, depending on the jurisdiction). With this licensure, graduates are qualified to work as therapists in various settings, including private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals, community agencies, school counseling, and other healthcare organizations.

Licensing requirements vary by state or country, so those interested in becoming therapists should familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and licensure processes in the location where they plan to practice.

What is the difference between clinical professional counseling and clinical psychology?

Both clinical professional counseling and clinical psychology center around supporting individuals with mental health concerns, but key differences exist in their focus, training, and scope.

“The distinction lies in the depth of training,” says Medina. “Clinical professional counselors specialize in applied counseling techniques, while clinical psychologists have a comprehensive understanding of psychological conditions and therapies.”

Clinical professional counselors focus their training on applied therapies that address a variety of psychological stressors and life events. Licensed counselors typically have master's degrees in counseling or related fields and provide therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. They focus on addressing mood and anxiety issues, personal growth, and relationship challenges using various therapeutic techniques.

In contrast, licensed clinical psychologists carry the protected title “psychologist,” have doctoral degrees in psychology, and are trained to diagnose and treat mental illness using a variety of personality and neuropsychological assessments and evidence-based interventions. Many psychologists have concentrated training in research and often specialize in subfields like forensic, health, or neuropsychology.

UMGC's new program is a master’s in clinical professional counseling, which emphasizes a practical, applied approach to mental healthcare. Graduates do not become psychologists upon licensure, rather licensed clinical professional counselors.

What current and future trends does the UMGC Master’s in Clinical Professional Counseling program prepare students for?

While pursuing a master's degree in clinical professional counseling, UMGC students are prepared for landscape-shifting industry trends, including:

• Telehealth and technology integration. The COVID-19 pandemic saw a huge shift in how professional counselors delivered their services – a trend that has only continued to grow. Technology innovations, like cognitive behavioral therapy “homework” apps, mindfulness reminders, and thought trackers are also on the rise. Those seeking licensure will need to be competent at providing counseling services remotely and incorporating technology into their practice.
• Assessment and treatment of trauma. The field of counseling is also expanding its definition and understanding of psychological trauma. In the MSCPC program, UMGC students will study trauma-informed care, recognize the impact of trauma on mental health, and learn evidence-based approaches to trauma treatment.
• Equity, diversity, and inclusion. Well-trained counselors understand that their clients exist in their own cultural context; and they recognize and make moves to correct mental health disparities that exist across the sociocultural spectrum. Our program acknowledges the importance of inclusive counseling practices, of addressing the unique needs of clients from diverse backgrounds, and of advocating for the needs of underrepresented groups.
• Mindfulness and holistic practices. While earning their counseling degree, students can also learn about evidence-based mindfulness practices and holistic techniques designed to help clients cultivate present-moment awareness, develop greater self-compassion, and enhance psychological resilience.
• Integrated healthcare delivery. As the field of mental health shifts towards an integrated and preventive approach, students can explore the collaborative nature of integrated behavioral health. Mental health professionals work alongside medical professionals, occupational and speech therapists, and psychologists to address both physical and mental health concerns.

Staying up to date with these industry trends enhances students' adaptability and positions them to provide effective, informed, and culturally sensitive counseling services.

“As the mental health field shifts towards an integrated and preventive approach, students can explore the collaborative nature of integrated behavioral health,” says Medina. “Mental health professionals work alongside medical professionals to address both physical and mental health concerns.”

With a master’s in clinical professional counseling , students can meet the growing need for trained mental health professionals ready to take on roles as licensed practitioners. Upon obtaining licensure, graduates are primed and ready to enter the world of professional helping, prepared to join the ranks of those willing to address our nation’s mental health crisis.

Reference on this webpage to any third-party entity or product does not constitute or imply endorsement by UMGC nor does it constitute or imply endorsement of UMGC by the third party. 

Learn More About the Master’s in Clinical Professional Counseling

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