best phd programs in clinical psychology

Best Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs

Ranked in 2020, part of Best Health Schools

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental illness

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental illness and psychological disorders. Graduates may find work in private practice, schools and health care facilities. These are the top clinical psychology programs at the Ph.D. and/or Psy.D. level. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

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Clinical Psychology Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 203 results

Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Cambridge, MA •

Harvard University •

Graduate School

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   9 reviews

Other: I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student' in the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Through this School, I will be focusing my time at the John A. Paulson school of Engineering & Applied Sciences. Looking forward to wrapping up my final year on campus! ... Read 9 reviews

Harvard University ,

Graduate School ,

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student'... .

Read 9 reviews.

McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: Northwestern's Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability is a first of its kind professionally focused master's program in the nation. Interdisciplinary by design, MSES covers the technical, policy, and business/economics of the energy and sustainability sector pulling professors from the Kellogg School of Management as well as the McCormick School of Engineering. The industry professionals are leaders in their respective fields and are always willing to help the students. The cohort focused program enables deep connection among the students that will last a lifetime! ... Read 3 reviews

Northwestern University ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Northwestern's Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability is a first of its kind professionally focused master's program in the nation. Interdisciplinary by design, MSES covers the technical,... .

Read 3 reviews.

The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA •

University of Virginia •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Alum: Very good in some areas, excellent in other areas, many academic choices available in all areas of study ... Read 1 review

University of Virginia ,

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Very good in some areas, excellent in other areas, many academic choices available in all areas of study .

Read 1 reviews.

University of North Texas

Graduate School •

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   129

College of Arts and Sciences - Suffolk University

Suffolk University •

University of Houston - Clear Lake

HOUSTON, TX

• • Rating 4.65 out of 5   68

College of Liberal Arts - University of Texas - Austin

Austin, TX •

University of Texas - Austin •

University of Texas - Austin ,

AUSTIN, TX ,

College of Fine Arts - Boston University

Boston, MA •

Boston University •

Boston University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering - University of Rochester

Rochester, NY •

University of Rochester •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   2 reviews

Alum: The Optics program is the toughest offered at the school. Optics grads do twice as much (60 credit hours instead of 30) class work as other degrees. You learn a ton! The field is so diverse you can pick and choose what subfields to focus on, and all fields are offered. Amazing professors. In all my classes, I felt one professor was bad at teaching. All the others were very competent, and the best were extremely passionate about their class/field of research. ... Read 2 reviews

Blue checkmark.

University of Rochester ,

ROCHESTER, NY ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says The Optics program is the toughest offered at the school. Optics grads do twice as much (60 credit hours instead of 30) class work as other degrees. You learn a ton! The field is so diverse you can... .

Read 2 reviews.

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Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences

Dallas, TX •

Southern Methodist University •

Southern Methodist University ,

DALLAS, TX ,

BYU College of Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Provo, UT •

Brigham Young University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: I will be starting the EMPA program at Brigham Young University this fall, and have been so impressed with the communications I have received as a new grad student. BYU's faculty have been professional, welcoming, and enthusiastic, which has inspired an excitement in me to begin studying. ... Read 2 reviews

Brigham Young University ,

PROVO, UT ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I will be starting the EMPA program at Brigham Young University this fall, and have been so impressed with the communications I have received as a new grad student. BYU's faculty have been... .

University of Washington College of Arts & Sciences

Seattle, WA •

University of Washington •

University of Washington ,

SEATTLE, WA ,

GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Washington, DC •

George Washington University •

• • Rating 4.73 out of 5   11 reviews

Doctoral Student: GW selects an eclectic class. I noticed the diverse backgrounds, age groups, and interests among the students. Half the class are women. Students have a wide-variety of interests and talents outside of. medicine and bring this to the classroom and beyond. The location is amazing with major health organizations and hospitals nearby. The curriculum is focused on evidence-based care and cutting edge research. From day one. you dive in hands on. The pace is intense at times, but the faculty is supportive and available. ... Read 11 reviews

George Washington University ,

WASHINGTON, DC ,

11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says GW selects an eclectic class. I noticed the diverse backgrounds, age groups, and interests among the students. Half the class are women. Students have a wide-variety of interests and talents outside... .

Read 11 reviews.

UC San Diego School of Medicine

La Jolla, CA •

University of California - San Diego •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   3 reviews

Other: My experience at UCSD School of Medicine has been exceptional. The curriculum is rigorous yet well-structured, providing a solid foundation in both basic and clinical sciences. The faculty are both experts in their fields and incredibly supportive and approachable, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Access to cutting-edge research opportunities have greatly enhanced my education. Clinical rotations are diverse, offering exposure to a wide range of specialties and patient populations. The emphasis on holistic education, including wellness and professional development, has prepared me well for a future in medicine. Overall, UCSD School of Medicine has been an outstanding place to learn and grow as a medical professional. ... Read 3 reviews

University of California - San Diego ,

LA JOLLA, CA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Other says My experience at UCSD School of Medicine has been exceptional. The curriculum is rigorous yet well-structured, providing a solid foundation in both basic and clinical sciences. The faculty are both... .

Henry Kendall College of Arts & Sciences

Tulsa, OK •

The University of Tulsa •

Graduate Student: Overall, it’s pretty good to be a grad student at TU in A&S, but that is changing rapidly. The faculty care about us and the other students do as well, but neither the Board of Trustees nor the President nor the Provost (now acting President) actually care about this particular group of students. They’d honestly rather A&S disappear to make way for “industry jobs”. If your goal is to pursue Psychology, then TU is a solid option. Other degrees housed under A&S? I’d look elsewhere just to be safe. ... Read 1 review

The University of Tulsa ,

TULSA, OK ,

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Overall, it’s pretty good to be a grad student at TU in A&S, but that is changing rapidly. The faculty care about us and the other students do as well, but neither the Board of Trustees nor the... .

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Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology

Bronx, NY •

Yeshiva University •

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

Yeshiva University ,

BRONX, NY ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

The Wheaton College Graduate School - Illinois

Wheaton, IL •

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   27 reviews

Current Master's student: The staff is phenomenal, in and out of the classroom! Small-town feels, but very close to Chicago so the city life is close by. Academically challenging ! ... Read 27 reviews

WHEATON, IL ,

27 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The staff is phenomenal, in and out of the classroom! Small-town feels, but very close to Chicago so the city life is close by. Academically challenging ! .

Read 27 reviews.

College of Arts and Sciences - Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY •

Syracuse University •

Master's Student: The speech-language pathology program at Syracuse university is ranked very high among graduate programs in New York State. It is clear that the professors are very knowledgeable and provide students with the quality education needed to become excellent clinicians. The clinical faculty does an amazing job at supporting their students and allowing them to develop clinical skills for all types of speech and language disorders. This program does so much more than just providing students with education on the field of speech-language pathology. Students are constantly challenged to use complex skills like analytical thinking, collaborating with peers, and so much more. This program can be very demanding at times and requires students to put in a lot of work in the clinical and classroom settings. The main campus at Syracuse is very nice, however, the building for the speech program is nothing special. Almost all masters classes are in the same, small classroom with no windows. ... Read 2 reviews

Syracuse University ,

SYRACUSE, NY ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The speech-language pathology program at Syracuse university is ranked very high among graduate programs in New York State. It is clear that the professors are very knowledgeable and provide... This program can be very demanding at times and requires students to put in a lot of work in the clinical and classroom settings. The main campus at Syracuse is very nice, however, the building for... .

Graduate School of Education and Psychology - Pepperdine University

Los Angeles, CA •

Pepperdine University •

• • Rating 4.75 out of 5   108 reviews

Alum: Overall, I found that I was one of the most adequately prepared students at my practicum site, including clinical skills, documentation, and treatment planning. The program was sufficient and I remember the experience fondly and learned a ton. Due to the online nature of the program, however, busy work wasn't uncommon, and it was particularly heavy in certain courses. Generally, though, the program was a positive experience, I learned a lot, and I feel that my success as a clinician can be connected back to my graduate education at Pepperdine GSEP. ... Read 108 reviews

Pepperdine University ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

108 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Overall, I found that I was one of the most adequately prepared students at my practicum site, including clinical skills, documentation, and treatment planning. The program was sufficient and I... .

Read 108 reviews.

Auburn University College of Liberal Arts

Auburn, AL •

Auburn University •

Auburn University ,

AUBURN, AL ,

Saint Louis University- College of Arts and Sciences

St Louis, MO •

Saint Louis University •

Master's Student: Saint Louis University (SLU) offers a Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science program, which provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in computer science. Curriculum: The MS in Computer Science program typically covers advanced topics in computer science such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data mining, computer networks, cybersecurity, software engineering, and more. Internships and Co-op Programs: SLU may offer internship or co-op programs that allow students to gain practical work experience in the field of computer science, potentially leading to job opportunities after graduation. Research Opportunities: SLU's MS in Computer Science program may offer opportunities for students to engage in research projects, publish papers, attend conferences, and contribute to advancements in the field. ... Read 3 reviews

Saint Louis University ,

ST LOUIS, MO ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says Saint Louis University (SLU) offers a Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science program, which provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in computer science. Curriculum: The MS in Computer Science program typically covers advanced topics in computer science such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data mining, computer networks,... Internships and Co-op Programs: SLU may offer internship or co-op programs that allow students to gain practical work experience in the field of computer science, potentially leading to job... Research Opportunities: SLU's MS in Computer Science program may offer opportunities for students to engage in research projects, publish papers, attend conferences, and contribute to advancements in... .

College of Arts and Sciences - Baylor University

Baylor University Graduate School •

Baylor University Graduate School ,

College of Arts and Sciences - University of Dayton

Dayton, OH •

University of Dayton •

University of Dayton ,

DAYTON, OH ,

College of Arts and Sciences - American University

American University •

American University ,

College of Arts and Sciences - University of South Carolina

Columbia, SC •

University of South Carolina •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Current Master's student: My academic program has given me many opportunities to become a social worker post-graduation. The College of Social Work is great. ... Read 2 reviews

University of South Carolina ,

COLUMBIA, SC ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says My academic program has given me many opportunities to become a social worker post-graduation. The College of Social Work is great. .

Graduate School of Professional Psychology - University of Denver

Denver, CO •

University of Denver •

• • Rating 1 out of 5   1 review

University of Denver ,

DENVER, CO ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 1 stars.

University of San Francisco College of Arts and Sciences

San Francisco, CA •

University of San Francisco •

University of San Francisco ,

SAN FRANCISCO, CA ,

College of Sciences - University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL •

University of Central Florida •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Other: Nestled in a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills and a bustling downtown, this college exudes an undeniable aura of fun and excitement. From the moment you step onto its vibrant campus, you're greeted by a palpable energy that permeates the air. The campus is alive with the sounds of laughter, music, and enthusiastic chatter, creating an atmosphere that's both invigorating and welcoming. One of the highlights of this college is its diverse range of extracurricular activities, catering to every interest imaginable. Whether you're into sports, arts, community service, or something entirely unique, there's a club or organization for you. From spirited intramural games and outdoor adventure trips to dynamic student-led performances and cultural celebrations, the options for fun and enrichment are endless. ... Read 1 review

University of Central Florida ,

ORLANDO, FL ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Other says Nestled in a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills and a bustling downtown, this college exudes an undeniable aura of fun and excitement. From the moment you step onto its vibrant campus,... .

College of Health and Human Services - IUP

Indiana University of Pennsylvania •

INDIANA, PA

Suffolk University

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   16

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

• • Rating 4.32 out of 5   56

Showing results 1 through 25 of 203

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Psychology Graduate Program

• Psychology Department

The Clinical Psychology Program adheres to a clinical science model of training, and is a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science.  We are committed to training clinical psychologists whose research advances scientific knowledge of psychopathology and its treatment, and who are capable of applying evidence-based methods of assessment and clinical intervention. The main emphasis of the program is research, especially on severe psychopathology. The program includes research, course work, and clinical practica, and usually takes five years to complete. Students typically complete assessment and treatment practica during their second and third years in the program, and they must fulfill all departmental requirements prior to beginning their one-year internship. The curriculum meets requirements for licensure in Massachusetts, and is accredited by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) and by the American Psychological Association (APA).  PCSAS re-accredited the program on December 15, 2022 for a 10-year term. APA most recently accredited the program on April 28, 2015 for a seven-year term, which was extended due to COVID-related delays. 

Requirements

Required courses and training experiences fulfill requirements for clinical psychology licensure in Massachusetts as well as meet APA criteria for the accreditation of clinical psychology programs.  In addition to these courses, further training experiences are required in accordance with the American Psychological Association’s guidelines for the accreditation of clinical psychology programs (e.g., clinical practica [e.g., PSY 3050 Clinical Practicum, PSY 3080 Practicum in Neuropsychological Assessment]; clinical internship).

Students in the clinical psychology program are required to take the following courses:

• PSY 3900 Professional Ethics
• PSY 2445 Psychotherapy Research
• PSY 2070 Psychometric Theory and Method Using R
• PSY 2430 Cultural, Racial, and Ethnic Bases of Behavior
• PSY 3250 Psychological Testing
• PSY 2050 History of Psychology
• PSY 1951 Intermediate Quantitative Methods
• PSY 1952 Multivariate Analysis in Psychology
• PSY 2040 Contemporary Topics in Psychopathology
• PSY 2460 Diagnostic Interviewing
• PSY 2420 Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Psychological Disorders

Clinical students must also take one course in each of the following substantive areas: biological bases of behavior (e.g., PSY 1202 Modern Neuroanatomy; PSY 1325 The Emotional, Social Brain; PSY 1355 The Adolescent Brain; PSY 1702 The Emotional Mind); social bases of behavior (e.g., PSY 2500 Proseminar in Social Psychology); cognitive-affective bases of behavior (e.g., PSY 2400 Cognitive Psychology and Emotional Disorders); and individual differences (Required course PSY 2040 Contemporary Topics in Psychopathology fulfills the individual differences requirement for Massachusetts licensure). In accordance with American Psychological Association guidelines for the accreditation of clinical psychology programs, clinical students also receive consultation and supervision within the context of clinical practica in psychological assessment and treatment beginning in their second semester of their first year and running through their third year. They receive further exposure to additional topics (e.g., human development) in the Developmental Psychopathology seminar and in the twice-monthly clinical psychology “brown bag” speaker series. Finally, students complete a year-long clinical internship. Students are responsible for making sure that they take courses in all the relevant and required areas listed above. Students wishing to substitute one required course for another should seek advice from their advisor and from the director of clinical training prior to registering. During the first year, students are advised to get in as many requirements as possible. Many requirements can be completed before the deadlines stated below. First-year project:  Under the guidance of a faculty member who serves as a mentor, students participate in a research project and write a formal report on their research progress. Due by May of first year. Second-year project:  Original research project leading to a written report in the style of an APA journal article. A ten-minute oral presentation is also required. Due by May of second year. General exam:  A six-hour exam covering the literature of the field. To be taken in September before the start of the third year. Thesis prospectus:  A written description of the research proposed must be approved by a prospectus committee appointed by the CHD. Due at the beginning of the fourth year. Thesis and oral defense:  Ordinarily this would be completed by the end of the fourth year. Clinical internship:  Ordinarily this would occur in the fifth year. Students must have completed their thesis research prior to going on internship.

Credit for Prior Graduate Work

 A PhD student who has completed at least one full term of satisfactory work in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences may file an application at the Registrar’s Office requesting that work done in a graduate program elsewhere be counted toward the academic residence requirement. Forms are available  online .

No more than the equivalent of eight half-courses may be so counted for the PhD.

An application for academic credit for work done elsewhere must contain a list of the courses, with grades, for which the student is seeking credit, and must be approved by the student’s department. In order for credit to be granted, official transcripts showing the courses for which credit is sought must be submitted to the registrar, unless they are already on file with the Graduate School. No guarantee is given in advance that such an application will be granted. 

Only courses taken in a Harvard AB-AM or AB-SM program, in Harvard Summer School, as a GSAS Special Student or FAS courses taken as an employee under the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) may be counted toward the minimum academic residence requirements for a Master’s degree.

Academic and financial credit for courses taken as a GSAS Special Student or FAS courses taken as a Harvard employee prior to admission to a degree program may be granted for a maximum of four half-courses toward a one-year Master’s and eight half-courses toward a two-year Master’s or the PhD degree.

Applications for academic and financial credit must be approved by the student’s department and should then be submitted to the Registrar’s Office.

Student Admissions, Outcomes, and other data  

1. Time to Completion

Students can petition the program faculty to receive credit for prior graduate coursework, but it does not markedly reduce their expected time to complete the program.

2. Program Costs

3. Internships 

4. Attrition

5. Licensure

Standard Financial Aid Award, Students Entering 2023  

The financial aid package for Ph.D. students entering in 2023 will include tuition and health fees support for years one through four, or five, if needed; stipend support in years one and two; a summer research grant equal to two months stipend at the end of years one through four; teaching fellowship support in years three and four guaranteed by the Psychology Department; and a dissertation completion grant consisting of tuition and stipend support in the appropriate year. Typically students will not be allowed to teach while receiving a stipend in years one and two or during the dissertation completion year.    

Year 1 (2023-24) and Year 2 (2024- 25)  Tuition & Health Fees:                             Paid in Full  Academic Year Stipend:                           $35,700 (10 months)  Summer Research Award:                       $7,140 (2 months)

Year 3 (2025-26) & Year 4 (2026- 27) Tuition & Health Fees:                             Paid in Full Living Expenses:                                       $35,700 (Teaching Fellowship plus supplement, if eligible)  Summer Research Award:                       $7,140 (2 months)

Year 5 (2027-28) - if needed; may not be taken after the Dissertation Completion year Tuition & Health Fees:                             Paid in Full

Dissertation Completion Year (normally year 5, occasionally year 6) Tuition & Health Fees:                             Paid in Full  Stipend for Living Expenses:                    $35,700  

The academic year stipend is for the ten-month period September through June. The first stipend payment will be made available at the start of the fall term with subsequent disbursements on the first of each month. The summer research award is intended for use in July and August following the first four academic years.

In the third and fourth years, the guaranteed income of $35,700 includes four sections of teaching and, if necessary, a small supplement from the Graduate School. Your teaching fellowship is guaranteed by the Department provided you have passed the General Examination or equivalent and met any other department criteria. Students are required to take a teacher training course in the first year of teaching.

The dissertation completion year fellowship will be available as soon as you are prepared to finish your dissertation, ordinarily in the fifth year. Applications for the completion fellowship must be submitted in February of the year prior to utilizing the award. Dissertation completion fellowships are not guaranteed after the seventh year. Please note that registration in the Graduate School is always subject to your maintaining satisfactory progress toward the degree.

GSAS students are strongly encouraged to apply for appropriate Harvard and outside fellowships throughout their enrollment. All students who receive funds from an outside source are expected to accept the award in place of the above Harvard award. In such cases, students may be eligible to receive a GSAS award of up to $4,000 for each academic year of external funding secured or defer up to one year of GSAS stipend support.

For additional information, please refer to the Financial Support section of the GSAS website ( gsas.harvard.edu/financial-support ).

Registration and Financial Aid in the Graduate School are always subject to maintaining satisfactory progress toward the degree.

Psychology students are eligible to apply for generous research and travel grants from the Department.

The figures quoted above are estimates provided by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and are subject to change.

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

The Director of Clinical Training is Prof. Richard J. McNally who can be reached by telephone at (617) 495-3853 or via e-mail at:  [email protected] . 

• Clinical Internship Allowance

Harvard Clinical Psychology Student Handbook

Clinical Psychology

Mission statement.

Our mission is to advance knowledge that promotes psychological well-being and reduces the burden of mental illness and problems in living and to develop leading clinical scientists whose skills and knowledge will have a substantial impact on the field of psychology and the lives of those in need. Our faculty and graduate students promote critical thinking, innovation, and discovery, and strive to be leaders in their field, engaging in and influencing research, practice, policy, and education. Our pursuit of these goals is guided by the values of collaboration, mutual respect, and fairness, our commitment to diversity, and the highest ethical standards.

Information about the Clinical Psychology Graduate Major

UCLA’s Clinical Psychology program is one of the largest, most selective, and most highly regarded in the country and aims to produce future faculty, researchers, and leaders in clinical science, who influence research, policy development, and practice. Clinical science is a field of psychology that strives to generate and disseminate the best possible knowledge, whether basic or applied, to reduce suffering and to advance public health and wellness. Rather than viewing research and intervention as separable, clinical science construes these activities as part of a single, broad domain of expertise and action. Students in the program are immersed in an empirical, research-based approach to clinical training. This, in turn, informs their research endeavors with a strong understanding of associated psychological phenomena. The UCLA Clinical Science Training Programs employs rigorous methods and theories from multiple perspectives, in the context of human diversity. Our goal is to develop the next generation of clinical scientists who will advance and share knowledge related to the origins, development, assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health problems.

Admissions decisions are based on applicants’ research interests and experiences, formal coursework in psychology and associated fields, academic performance, letters of recommendation, dedication to and suitability for a career as a clinical scientist, program fit, and contributions to an intellectually rich, diverse class. Once admitted, students engage with faculty in research activities addressing critical issues that impact psychological well-being and the burden of mental illness, using a wide range of approaches and at varying levels of analysis. Their integrated training is facilitated by on-campus resources including the departmental Psychology Clinic, the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the David Geffen School of Medicine.

Our program philosophy is embodied in, and our goals are achieved through, a series of training activities that prepare students for increasingly complex, demanding, and independent roles as clinical scientists. These training activities expose students to the reciprocal relationship between scientific research and provision of clinical services, and to various systems and methods of intervention, assessment, and other clinical services with demographically and clinically diverse populations. The curriculum is designed to produce scientifically-minded scholars who are well-trained in research and practice, who use data to develop and refine the knowledge base in their field, and who bring a reasoned empirical perspective to positions of leadership in research and service delivery.

The program’s individualized supervision of each student in integrated research and practice roles provides considerable flexibility. Within the parameters set by faculty interests and practicum resources, there are specializations in child psychopathology and treatment, cognitive-behavior therapy, clinical assessment, adult psychopathology and treatment, family processes, assessment and intervention with distressed couples, community psychology, stress and coping, cognitive and affective neuroscience, minority mental health, and health psychology and behavioral medicine. The faculty and other research resources of the Department make possible an intensive concentration in particular areas of clinical psychology, while at the same time ensuring breadth of training.

Clinical psychology at UCLA is a six-year program including a full-time one-year internship, at least four years of which must be completed in residence at UCLA. The curriculum in clinical psychology is based on a twelve-month academic year. The program includes a mixture of coursework, clinical practicum training, teaching, and continuous involvement in research. Many of the twenty clinical area faculty, along with numerous clinical psychologists from other campus departments, community clinics, and hospitals settings, contribute to clinical supervision.  Clinical training experiences typically include four and a half years of part-time practicum placements in the Psychology Clinic and local agencies. The required one-year full-time internship is undertaken after the student has passed the clinical qualifying examinations and the dissertation preliminary orals. The student receives the Ph.D. degree when both the dissertation and an approved internship are completed.

Accreditation

PCSAS – Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System

The Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology at UCLA was accredited in 2012 by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). PCSAS was created to promote science-centered education and training in clinical psychology, to increase the quality and quantity of clinical scientists contributing to the advancement of public health, and to enhance the scientific knowledge base for mental and behavioral health care. The UCLA program is deeply committed to these goals and proud to be a member of the PCSAS Founder’s Circle and one of the group of programs accredited by PCSAS.  (Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System, 1800 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 402, Washington, DC 20036-1218. Telephone: 301-455-8046). Website:  https://www.pcsas.org

APA CoA – American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation

The Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology at UCLA has been accredited by the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation since 1949. (Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, American Psychological Association, 750 First Street NE. Washington, DC 20002-4242. Telephone:  202-336-5979 .) Website:  http://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/

Future Accreditation Plans:  

Against the backdrop of distressing evidence that mental health problems are increasingly prevalent and burdensome, the field of psychological clinical science must think innovatively to address the unmet mental health needs of vulnerable populations. UCLA’s clinical psychology program remains committed to training clinical psychological scientists who will become leaders in research, dissemination, and implementation of knowledge, policy development, and evidence-based clinical practice. This commitment is firmly rooted in our overall mission of promoting equity and inclusion, adhering to ethical standards, and developing collaborations in all aspects of clinical psychology.

Increasingly, we believe that significant aspects of the academic and clinical-service requirements of accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) obstruct our training mission. Too often, APA requirements limit our ability to flexibly adapt our program to evolving scientific evidence, student needs, and global trends in mental health. Like many other top clinical science doctoral programs, we see our longstanding accreditation by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) as better aligned with our core values, including advancement of scientifically-based training.

Accordingly, we are unlikely to seek renewal of our program’s accreditation by APA, which is set to expire in 2028. The ultimate decision about re-accreditation will be made with the best interests and well-being of current and future students in our program in mind. To that end, we will continue to monitor important criteria that will determine the career prospects of students completing a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from programs accredited only by PCSAS. For example, we are working to understand the potential implications for securing excellent predoctoral internships and eligibility for professional licensure across jurisdictions in North America. Although the UCLA clinical psychology program has no direct influence over these external organizations, we are excited to continue to work to shape this evolving training landscape with the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (APCS) and leaders from other clinical science programs.

Our ongoing monitoring of trends in clinical psychology training is encouraging for PCSAS-accredited programs. However, evolving circumstances could result in our program changing its opinion with respect to seeking APA re-accreditation in the future. In the spirit of transparency and empowering potential applicants to make informed choices for their own professional development, we are pleased to share our thinking on these important issues.

Notice to Students re: Professional Licensure and Certification

University of California programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the University of California and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The University of California has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a University of California program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

NOTE:  Although the UCLA Clinical Psychology Program is not designed to ensure license eligibility, the majority of our graduates do go on to become professionally licensed.  For more information, please see  https://www.ucop.edu/institutional-research-academic-planning/content-analysis/academic-planning/licensure-and-certification-disclosures.html .

Clinical Program Policy on Diversity-Related Training 

In light of our guiding values of collaboration, respect, and fairness, this statement is to inform prospective and current trainees, faculty, and supervisors, as well as the public, that our trainees are required to (a) attain an understanding of cultural and individual diversity as related to both the science and practice of psychology and (b) provide competent and ethical services to diverse individuals.  Our primary consideration is always the welfare of the client.  Should such a conflict arise in which the trainee’s beliefs, values, worldview, or culture limits their ability to meet this requirement, as determined by either the student or the supervisor, it should be reported to the Clinic and Placements Committee, either directly or through a supervisor or clinical area faculty member.  The Committee will take a developmental view, such that if the competency to deliver services cannot be sufficiently developed in time to protect and serve a potentially impacted client, the committee will (a) consider a reassignment of the client so as to protect the client’s immediate interests, and (b) request from the student a plan to reach the above-stated competencies, to be developed and implemented in consultation with both the trainee’s supervisor and the Clinic Director.  There should be no reasonable expectation of a trainee being exempted from having clients with any particular background or characteristics assigned to them for the duration of their training.

Clinical Program Grievance Policies & Procedures

Unfortunately, conflicts between students and faculty or with other students will occur, and the following policies and procedures are provided in an effort to achieve the best solution. The first step in addressing these conflicts is for the student to consult with their academic advisor. If this option is not feasible (e.g. the conflict is with the advisor) or the conflict is not resolved to their satisfaction, then the issue should be brought to the attention of the Director of Clinical Training. If in the unlikely event that an effective solution is not achieved at this level, then the student has the option of consulting with the Department’s Vice Chair for Graduate Studies. Students also have the option of seeking assistance from the campus Office of Ombuds Services and the Office of the Dean of Students. It is expected that all such conflicts are to be addressed first within the program, then within the Department, before seeking a resolution outside of the department.

More Clinical Psychology Information

• For a list of Required Courses please see the  Psychology Handbook
• Psychology Clinic
• Student Admissions Outcomes and Other Data

• English Language Programs
• Postdoctoral Affairs
• Training Grant Support
• Request Information

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

• Academic Programs
• Explore Programs

Clinical Psychology

• MA Requirements
• PhD Requirements

Learn more about the program by visiting the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

See related Interdisciplinary Clusters and Certificates

Degree Types: MA, PhD

The PhD Program in Clinical Psychology within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine is one of only a handful of programs in the United States based in an academic medical center and housed in a psychiatry department. This unique setting provides opportunities for translational research and practice that span molecular to social models of disease, and epidemiologic to clinical and neuroimaging methodologies.

This scientist-practitioner program effectively balances clinical and research training to produce graduates who are competent in the science and practice of clinical psychology. The PhD program also provides opportunities for major areas of study within clinical psychology, including Adult Clinical Psychology, Behavioral Medicine or Clinical Health Psychology, Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, and Forensic Psychology. Training is provided through core and emphasis-specific curricula, intensive research mentoring, and exceptional clinical practica. Major milestones include a research qualifying paper and master's thesis, a clinical qualifying exam, an empirical dissertation with original research, and an APA-accredited clinical internship.

Our mentor-based program prepares students to be competitive for careers as clinical psychologists in academic health centers, children's hospitals, VA medical centers, and related medical facilities.

The Clinical Psychology Master of Arts (MA) Program within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine is intended for students interested in pursuing a career in academic clinical psychology. The MA program is designed to provide a foundation in academic clinical psychology at the graduate level, while also allowing students to gain educational and research exposure to major areas of study within clinical psychology, including Adult Clinical Psychology, Behavioral Medicine or Clinical Health Psychology, Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, and Forensic Psychology. 

The goals of the MA Program in Clinical Psychology are to:

• Develop foundational competencies in research design, analytics, and ethics within academic clinical psychology.
• Explore major areas of study within academic clinical psychology.
• Understand educational and career opportunities within academic clinical psychology.

Note: the MA Program in Clinical Psychology does not include clinical training and is not intended to prepare students for clinical practice. Given the academic and research focus of the MA Program, the degree will not lead to licensure for independent practice.  For those interested in master's level programs that prepare students for licensure and practice, please visit the  MA in Counseling website , the  MS in Marriage and Family Therapy website  and  The Family Institute website . 

The MA Program in Clinical Psychology was designed for a variety of students, including students who:

• Are not yet ready to apply to a PhD program, but are considering doing so in the future.
• Wish to improve their competitiveness for a PhD program.
• Are interested in exploring a career in academic clinical psychology.
• With interests in related fields for which a background in academic clinical psychology may be of value.

The MA Program is embedded in the Clinical Psychology PhD Program, with coursework and lab work completed alongside PhD students. Although students in the MA Program are welcome to apply to Northwestern's PhD Program in Clinical Psychology, the MA Program is not intended to be a "gateway" into the PhD Program in Clinical Psychology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Additional resources:

• Department Website
• Pro gram Handbook

Program Statistics

Visit Master's Program Statistics and PhD Program Statistics for statistics such as program admissions, enrollment, student demographics and more.

Program Contact

Contact Sarah Bratta Program Coordinator

Degree Requirements

The following requirements are in addition to, or further elaborate upon, those requirements outlined in  The Graduate School Policy Guide .

MA Degree Requirements

Total Units Required: 17

The MA program requires at least 17 units for graduation across five (5) quarters (15 months) of full-time enrollment; part-time and early graduation is not permitted. Students are required to take the Research Core, including Research Methods/Statistics (3 units), Advanced Research Methodology (1 unit), and Scientific and Professional Ethics in Psychology (1 unit). In addition to these required courses, students are expected to select between five to eight elective courses across the Summer I, Fall, Winter, Spring, and/or Summer II quarters. Elective courses can include Discipline Specific Knowledge and Profession Wide Competency courses, as well as courses in one or more Major Areas of Study. 

In addition to the Research Core and Elective courses, all MA students participate in the weekly Professional Development Seminar for the first four quarters of the MA Program. This Seminar orients students to the MA program, introduces students to various mentors and labs across Northwestern, explores career options in academic clinical psychology, refines interests in academic clinical psychology, and prepares students for the next steps in their careers (e.g., developing applications for PhD programs; preparing for interviews). 

Other MA Degree Requirements

• Research/Projects:  In addition to completion of the coursework requirements, students engage in a Research Lab Experience for at least 10 hours a week.
• Master's Thesis :   Optional (see below)
• Master’s Culminating Academic Experience:  Through the Research Lab Experience, the student will work with her or his research mentor to complete a Capstone Project. The Capstone Project is the culmination of the Research Lab Experience provided by the research mentor, providing the final evaluation of the student’s research competencies. Examples of capstone projects include: Substantial participation (i.e., authorship level) on one or more empirical studies submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. First author submission of one or more peer-reviewed poster/oral presentations at regional, national, or international conferences. A comprehensive review paper that is submitted to and graded by the research mentor. A grant proposal (e.g., F31 style) that is submitted to and graded by the research mentor.  

Last Updated: September 12, 2023

PhD Degree Requirements

Total Units Required: 30

Other PhD Degree Requirements

• Examinations:  defense of a research paper and a clinical qualifying project serving as examination for admission to candidacy
• Research/Projects:  independent, empirical research study completed in fulfillment of the research qualifying paper
• PhD Dissertation:  original research following third year of coursework
• Final Evaluations:  oral defense of dissertation

Secondary Menu

• 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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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

Teachers College, Columbia University 328 Horace Mann

Contact Person: Rebecca Shulevitz

Phone: (212) 678-3267 Fax: (212) 678-8235

Email: shulevitz@tc.columbia.edu

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• Decision Making Linked to Composition of Gut Microbiota
• U.S. Issues Worldwide Alert Warning of Anti-LGBTQ Violence
• Former OpenAI Leader Says Safety Taking Backseat to "Shiny Products"
• Government Tells Schools in England Not to Teach About Gender Identity
• Climate Change May Worsen Stroke, Migraine, Alzheimer's
• Gov. Ron Desantis Signs Law Erasing Climate Change From Florida Policy
• 90% of Floridians Believe Climate Change Is Happening
• Cognitive Decline Rates Higher Among Older Native Americans

Source: Psychology News Center

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20 Best Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) Graduate Schools

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: April 25, 2024 , Reading time: 12 minutes

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In this article, we will be covering...

Although our efforts in life bring splendid results, we deal with pressure, urgency, tension, and anxiety that can affect our mental and emotional state. Consequently, the world is demonstrating a rising demand for:

• Psychologists

Psychology professionals who can assess, interpret, and offer solutions to alleviate mental, behavioral, and emotional problems for people who desperately need them are the key to health and happiness for so many.  

A Doctor of Clinical Psychology is the highest level of education that allows professionals to become experts in the field of mental health and counseling. Let’s explore today’s top PsyD programs.

Quick Audio Summary:

Methodology

The Clinical Psychology graduate schools and programs are ranked based on institutional prestige, teaching and training standards, and student outcomes. Each program is known for the following features:

• Top-standard admission, retention, and graduation rates
• Rigorous medical coursework featuring up-to-date principles and state-of-the-art equipment
• Impressive job placement rates
• An esteemed panel of expert instructors with significant field contributions
• Various student assistance services for networking
• Accreditation from academic agencies and recognition within the medical circle
• Stellar reviews from alumni and Ph.D. students

Best Doctor of Clinical Psychology Graduate Schools

Xavier university.

Cincinnati, OH

Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.)

Xavier’s PsyD degree aims to equip students with the ability to practice professional clinical psychology in diverse settings. This program offers various internships practical experiences, and customization options. 

There are three interest areas in this PsyD: 

• Children and Adolescents Psychology
• Persons with Chronic Psychopathology
• Health Care Psychology

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

UCLA’s research-based doctorate in clinical psychology aims to develop students into experts in advanced psychology research and teaching.

Students who aspire to careers in organizational psychology, industrial psychology, counseling psychology, or forensic psychology are not advised to apply to this program and look for schools that offer PsyD in Psychology instead.

Palo Alto University – PGSP/Stanford University Consortium

Palo Alto, CA

PsyD in Clinical Psychology

This degree is a practitioner-scholar program designed for individuals who aspire to pursue a career providing direct, thorough, and evidence-based clinical psychological services.

The program takes pride in its effectiveness in developing the student’s awareness and skills on the nine Health Service Psychology Profession-wide Competencies like research, ethical and legal standards, assessment, and more. 

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, Maryland

Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.)

Loyola’s PsyD degree develops and prepares students to lead in the clinical psychology profession. This program includes more than 1,500 hours of supervised field experience in any of its 100 externship locations across the Baltimore-Washington, DC region.

Pepperdine University

Pepperdine’s PsyD courses are delivered through a practitioner-scholar method of doctoral training to allow students to understand, absorb, and digest the practical application of the academic and clinical education they receive. This is among the US psychology institutions with a 100% placement rate.

George Fox University

Newberg, OR

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

George Fox’s offers a PsyD program that allows you to earn a non-terminal master’s of Clinical Psychology within your five years of academic and clinical training. This accredited program offers students some of the best and most renowned clinical psychology faculty. Students can focus on one of the following training tracks: 

• Broad and General Psychology
• Primary Care Psychology
• Child & Adolescent Psychology 
• Assessment Track

University of Denver GSPP

PsyD Clinical Psychology

The PsyD in Clinical Psychology at DU allows students to apply via Georgetown University’s Graduate School of Professional Psychology.

This program is known to provide students with a solid background in clinical psychology with various specialization options. Students can focus on any of the following topics: 

• Latinx Psychology
• Military Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health and
• Substance Use Disorder Psychology

The George Washington University

Washington, DC

This PsyD in Clinical Psychology offers a curriculum that combines extensive practical experience and theoretical knowledge of psychology.

Students will receive mentorship from experienced professionals, clinicians, and researchers with unquestionable authority on cognitive, behavioral, and a host of other psychological disorders. Students will choose one track: 

• Child & Adolescent Track
• Adult Track

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program (Psy.D.)

UNC at Chapel Hills offers an intensive PsyD in Clinical Psychology degree that combines research and clinical science training. The program offers two clinical tracks:

• Adult Clinical track
• Child/Family Clinical track

It’s an extremely competitive program that chooses only eight students from scores of applicants who want to get into the program.

Baylor University

Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology

Baylor’s Clinical Psychology PsyD program equips students with theoretical and clinical competencies through intensive coursework plus 1,000 – 1,200 hours of clinical practice and research experience. With only a 2% acceptance rate, it’s also one of the most competitive PsyD programs.

Yeshiva University – Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology

Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology

Yeshiva University’s PsyD program is considered one of the best psychology schools in the US. It exposes students to various academic, research, and field training, molding them into excellent practitioners of clinical psychology.

Aside from its Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology offers a Doctor of Psychology in School-Clinical Child Psychology program.

Widener University

Chester, PA

Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)

Students of Widener University’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology are guaranteed empirical and practical learning experiences for professional success. Students can pursue certificates in:

• Biofeedback
• Neuropsychology
• School Psychology

In addition, they also have the option to pursue concentrations: 

• Child, Adolescent, & Family Psychotherapy
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy/Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (CBT/ACT)
• Consulting Psychology
• Cross-Cultural & Diversity Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Psychodynamic Psychology

Long Island University

Brookville, NY

• Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

This program is designed for those who want to serve underserved populations. It offers a rigorous core curriculum that can provide you with mastery of your courses and allow you to choose two of its major areas of focus:

• Serious Mental Illnesses
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and
• Interventions with High-Risk Families

Chestnut Hill College

Philadelphia, PA

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology

CHC’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology uses the practitioner-scholar model and develops students’ skills as they accumulate theoretical knowledge. It offers optional concentrations:

• Psychological Assessment
• Couple, Family, and Child Therapy

Students who can meet the optional requirements will be awarded a Certification of Concentration aside from their graduation diploma.

University of Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN

Clinical Psychology Doctorate (Psy.D.)

UIndy exposes PsyD students to more advanced course content and allows them to master an area of focus like:

• Child and Adolescent Psychology
• Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine
• Adult Psychopathology and Psychotherapy

The university has more than 40 quality practicum sites and over 75 placements, including in:

• correctional facilities
• psychiatric hospitals
• university counseling centers
• VA medical centers
• specialized facilities for drug addicts, people with eating disorders, and victims of domestic violence

Biola University Rosemead School of Psychology

This PsyD in Clinical Psychology delivers its curriculum through rigorous academic training, aiming to equip students with outstanding abilities to provide professional services. The university integrates science with Christian theology to mold students into God-ordained practitioners of Clinical Psychology.

University of Washington

Seattle, WA

UW’s clinical psychology doctorate is a research-based program designed for individuals who want to pursue advanced education in psychology with scientific, academic, and professional training.

The department offers research mentorship, evidence-based clinical training, and opportunities for specialized training in diverse science, data science, and quantitative methods. 

Students can choose between the General and Child Track.

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program (Ph.D.)

UW Madison’s PhD in Clinical Psychology employs the scientist-practitioner method as its training model. It uses a mentor model for research training, integrating theory and practice through closely aligned research interests, coursework, and clinical practicum experiences, with financial support for all students.

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY

Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology (Ph.D.)

Stony Brook’s intensive PhD in Clinical Psychology aims to produce clinical scientists who are qualified and skilled to assess and analyze psychological problems from a scientific, evidence-based perspective.

Students participate in a research lab, complete two projects, and present papers at conferences. The program is highly competitive, accepting only four to eight out of over 300 applicants.

Rutgers University

Piscataway, NJ

Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D)

The PsyD program at Rutgers offers a Clinical Psychology specialization that equips future psychologists with a solid foundation in clinical practice, incorporating diverse theoretical orientations and individual differences.

Additionally, students will face new knowledge and clinical needs for practical learning experiences. It strongly emphasizes clinical values and knowledge-based practice for lifelong development and leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a doctor of clinical psychology degree.

A Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) degree is a doctorate in scientific psychology, psychotherapy, and psychoanalysis, qualifying for a licensing exam. Various US universities now offer it in fields like:

• Business Psychology
• Counseling Psychology

Doctoral degrees in Psychology include:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D)

Psy.D. prepares individuals for a career as a clinical psychologist , allowing them to take a licensing exam and work directly with clients with emotional, behavioral, or mental health problems.

Meanwhile, Ph.D. provides training in research and teaching . It prepares students for a career in academia or a business organization where knowledge of psychology is needed.

How do I choose between a Ph.D. and a Psy.D. program?

The difference between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. can be confusing, but choosing the right program depends on your career goals. Ph.D.s are best for academic settings or experimental studies, while Psy. D.s are ideal for practicing with patients.

What should I consider when choosing a Psy.D. program?

Consider these six factors when choosing a Psy.D. program:

• Emphasis on Clinical Practice and Research
• Specializations or Areas of Focus
• Faculty Expertise 
• Field Experience
• Alumni Stories
• Student Success Rate

What are the different types of Psy.D. degrees?

Some present-day schools have made it possible for students to earn a Psy.D. degree with a specialized or highly focused degree. This led to the emergence of four other Psy.D. specializations. Let’s identify the most popular of them:

What are the disadvantages of Clinical Psychology?

Every job comes with a few disadvantages, right? Here are a few to consider in the field of Clinical Psychology:

• High cost of treatment
• Limited access to care
• Time-consuming
• Potential side effects of medication

What can I do as a Doctor of Clinical Psychology?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics explained the demand for clinical psychology jobs is likely to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032 and will provide 12,000 job openings each year for the same period.

One of the many benefits of completing a doctorate in clinical psychology is its potential to open doors for you in several careers in psychology .

Here are some of the most probable jobs you can get with a doctorate in clinical psychology:

• Counselor to specific groups, e.g., children, elderly, married couples, families, etc.
• Behavioral Health Psychologist
• Child Psychologist
• Clinical Case Manager
• Clinical Psychology College Professor
• Counseling Psychologist
• Psychotherapist
• Rehabilitation Psychologist
• School Psychologist

Key Takeaways

Clinical Psychology Ph.D. programs further your career in the field of mental health. Students are taught advanced psychological theories, research methods, and scientific knowledge.

Licensed clinical psychologists offer psychological services , develop treatment plans, and provide guidance in mental wellness practices. They work in mental health centers, sports psychology, forensic psychology, organizational leadership, or other clinical settings.

Additional Resources:

• Best Online Doctor of Educational Psychology Degree Programs
• Organizational Leadership vs Industrial Psychology: Career ROI
• What Jobs Can You Get With a Graduate Degree in Forensic Psychology?

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15 Best PsyD & PhD Clinical Psych Programs – 2024

January 19, 2024

The following list looks at the best clinical psych programs, some of which result in a PsyD while others lead to PhDs. The Doctor of Psychology, or PsyD, degree is a doctorate in psychology focused on clinical practice rather than research. So, depending on the program, your coursework will be dedicated more toward developing a patient-facing practice and less on conducting experiments and publishing research than with the PhD programs listed. Finding the best PsyD programs or PhD in clinical psych programs that suit you and your needs doesn’t need to be difficult. The first thing to look for will be a school that’s accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and/or the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS).

The APA “assures the public, licensing boards and potential employers that you have a sound educational and scientific foundation on which to build a successful career in psychology,” and the school accreditation process guarantees that you’ll be receiving an education that will solidify your career and create credibility for you and your future clients.

Best Clinical Psych Programs (Continued)

Not only that, you’ll be entering a growing field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the “overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032.” When you break out the average increase in demand for clinical and counseling psychologists, however, the BLS projects that the number of jobs will increase by about 11 percent . That’s faster than the average for every other occupation. There will be an estimated average of 12,800 new jobs for all psychologists each year until 2023. The median salary for psychologists was about $85,000 in 2022. This is higher than the average U.S. annual take-home pay across the board.

We’ve compiled the following list of accredited PsyD and PhD programs worth highlighting. The following schools will send you well on your way to serving the mental and emotional health of others while ensuring that you have ample opportunity to work closely with faculty, get real-world exposure, and enter the workforce competitively.

US News and World Report Methodology and Rankings 

US News and World Report has ranked the top accredited clinical psych programs in the country. In order to rank the schools, they survey faculty at 231 different, accredited PsyD and PhD clinical psych programs.  Faculty rate programs on a 1-5 scale judging academic quality. The rankings are determined by averaging each program’s scores. Unsurprisingly, this means there are a lot of ties. This also means that there are a ton of great schools out there. Therefore, you can’t go wrong with these top-tier, accredited programs.

Best PsyD Programs & Clinical Psych PhD Programs – Important Factors to Consider 

When applying to any graduate school, it’s important to assess how competitive admissions are, the amount of time you’ll spend in the program, the costs of the program, if funding is available (either full or partial), and what career placement possibilities look like upon graduation. In a field like clinical psychology, graduating without going into debt will make your career all the more successful. It will also allow you to give care to patients without attaching a dollar sign to them.

Let’s dive into the rankings: 

1)  UCLA

The University of California, Los Angeles is so universally renowned in psychology that it tops the list.

In addition to a dedicated Clinical Psychology concentration, the doctoral program also allows students to pursue Behavioral Neuroscience, Cognitive, Developmental, Health Psychology, Learning and Behavior, Quantitative, and Social Psychology.

The program is competitive; in 2023, there were 28 admitted students out of 1,226 applicants. Funding is available through fellowships, training, and teaching or research assistantships. The department strives to match students with funding upon admission, according to UCLA. However, they also recommend that students apply for external funding, as well. This means that full funding may not be guaranteed for everyone.

UCLA also touts a chapter of Underrepresented Graduate Students in Psychology (UGSP). This a student group which offers support and community to students from diverse racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic backgrounds.

2)  University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill’s PsyD program boasts a long-running accreditation with the APA—they’ve held the status since 1949. The program is also accredited by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). The program emphasizes “training in clinically-informed research and evidence-based clinical work,” and they recognize that your needs, desires, and goals may change over the course of your time in the program.

UNC is highly selective. Out of 681 applicants in 2023, just eight students were offered admission. Starting in 2020, UNC Chapel Hill stopped considering GRE scores as a factor in admissions, which saves you the pain and expense of the test (if you’ve applied only to other schools that also didn’t require the GRE).

The school also provides full tuition remission, health insurance, and a nine-month stipend for all incoming Clinical Psychology students for the first five years in the program. Chapel Hill proudly states that they have offered this package for the last 50 years. The stipend for the 2022-2023 academic year was $20,000. The full funding package is one of the many reasons that Chapel Hill is a competitive, highly-ranked option for aspiring clinicians.

Best PsyD Programs and PhD Programs in Clinical Psychology (Continued)

3) stony brook university (suny) .

Stony Brook’s Clinical Psych program began in 1966, and they’ve done well since then, maintaining a top spot on the US News and World Report rankings for decades. The program claims to prepare students for both research and clinical work from a broad range of psychological perspectives. Stony Brook says that their program is best suited to students who want to pursue academic and research-related careers, and that many graduates end up balancing their research with time spent serving patients in a clinical setting. In that way, Stony Brook is a great option for anyone who wants to work with patients while also contributing to the body of psychological research.

Stony Brook is accredited by the PCSAS as well as the APA. In the 2022-2023 academic year, 444 people applied, nine were offered admission, and six students accepted. All students admitted received a full, nine-month stipend (currently $17,502), full tuition remission, and health insurance. Summer funding is also available in the form of teaching assistantships, fellowships, research grants, and work studies. On average, students receive about $4,000 of summer funding, as well.

4) UC Berkeley

Taking into consideration that this is one of the best programs in the country, one of the most interesting things about UC Berkeley is its newly changed accreditation status. The program is PCSAS accredited, however, its APA status is “accredited – inactive,” and students will no longer matriculate through the APA version of the curriculum.

In short, the faculty and administration decided that the “evolving curricular and other demands” associated with APA accreditation were inconsistent with the kind of training they were trying to give their students, a training that would place paramount “reducing the burden of mental illness and related problems in living.” You can read the full statement here .

If that kind of pedagogical philosophy appeals to you, you might also consider that Berkeley has a rigorous program guided by its faculty advisor/mentor program. Students are matched from their first year with a faculty advisor who follows their progress throughout their four-to-six-year residency at the school.

There were 308 students who applied for the 2022-2023 academic year, four were granted admission, and four accepted. All of those students received an assistantship that includes a full tuition waiver. You can find out more about UC Berkeley’s financial assistance packages for psychology doctoral students here .

5)  University of Minnesota, Twin Cities 

An incredibly sought-after program, the University of Minnesota is both APA and PCSAS accredited. Following Berkeley’s lead, however, the school is considering letting go of its APA accreditation in the future.

The program offers students the options of an “adult” or “developmental” track, and the chosen focus does not limit students to practice with either children or adults. There were 10 total students for whom 2022-2023 was their first year of enrollment.

The University of Minnesota offers a wealth of funding options for students. All admitted students receive full tuition remission, health care, and a nine-month stipend. They also receive a new laptop computer to support their research. Beginning in 2022, all students were also guaranteed summer funding through a variety of diverse opportunities. Having a healthy funding package can make a huge difference in the life of a graduate student, and Minnesota does not disappoint. You can find more details about assistantship opportunities on their website .

6)  University of Washington, Seattle (tie with Minnesota)

According to the University of Washington Graduate Study in Psychology website, “We do not make offers to U.S. or International applicants unless we can fund them with either a Teaching or a Research Assistantship for half time (expected workload of 20 hrs/wk).” Sometimes, the program can also offer fellowships, which do not entail an expected workload. This financial security undoubtedly keeps UW performing well and ranking high on the list.

The department generally receives 800-1000 applications for 20 funded positions.

7)  University of Wisconsin, Madison (tie with Minnesota)

UW Madison’s Psychology Ph.D. program is highly competitive. It receives more than 400 applicants annually and accepting fewer than 10 percent of students.

While the program does not explicitly state that it guarantees full tuition remission and a stipend as the previous programs do, it does state that students frequently receive NSF and NIH predoctoral fellowships to complete their programs. Teaching and research assistantships are also available.

8)  University of Pennsylvania

If you’re going to UPenn, you’ll be living in the heart of Philadelphia. This, of course, also means a high cost of living. Luckily, this Ivy League institution boasts a stipend of at least $40,500 per year, full tuition remission, and summer funding opportunities. Funding is guaranteed for five years, the expected length of time to complete the program.

In terms of competitiveness, you’re looking at similar rates of acceptance as similarly ranked schools. The program website states, “Last year we received over 800 applications. We can accommodate about 8-10 new students per year.”

9)  University of Pittsburgh (tie with UPenn)

If you don’t go to UPenn, you can study in the western half of the state and still enjoy the same academic caliber.

Pitt also provides financial support for six years, and perhaps longer, depending on the student. The support includes a stipend which covers “living expenses, health insurance, public transportation, and tuition reimbursement.” It’s good to be a Panther!

10)  Harvard University 

Rounding out the top 10 is Harvard.

The standard financial aid package at this university is as robust as that of any school. That shouldn’t come as a surprise given Harvard’s elite status. According to the program website:

“The financial aid package for Ph.D. students entering in 2023 will include tuition and health fees support for years one through four, or five, if needed; stipend support in years one and two; a summer research grant equal to two months stipend at the end of years one through four; teaching fellowship support in years three and four guaranteed by the Psychology Department; and a dissertation completion grant consisting of tuition and stipend support in the appropriate year. Typically students will not be allowed to teach while receiving a stipend in years one and two or during the dissertation completion year.”

The nice thing about not “being allowed” to teach in the first two years is that students can concentrate solely on their coursework and intellectual and professional development, a real boon for clinicians in crimson.

More Great Programs 

The next seven schools all tied with Harvard in terms of rank on the US News and World Report list. They—and many others—certainly merit investigation and application, should you find yourself intrigued by the faculty, the opportunities, and, of course, the stipend.

• Indiana University, Bloomington (tie with Harvard)
• Penn State University, University Park (tie with Harvard)
• Temple University (tie with Harvard)
• University of Colorado, Boulder (tie with Harvard)
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (tie with Harvard)
• University of Texas, Austin (tie with Harvard)
• Washington University in St. Louis (tie with Harvard)

A Note About Online Clinical Psych Programs 

Because the emphasis in these programs is on training students to become clinicians in a therapeutic setting, there are currently no APA-accredited online PsyD or PhD programs . PCSAS doesn’t seem to have a direct statement about the nature of online programs. However, its list of accredited schools can be found here .

The world is changing and many people are pursuing telehealth therapy options online. This may change the educational landscape in the future. Finding the program that works for you means choosing a school that will set you up for the most success. An accredited degree is often the first step in the licensure and employment process.

Best PsyD Programs and PhD Programs in Clinical Psychology) – Additional Resources

If the PsyD program seems a little overwhelming, you might check out the best master’s programs in Psychology  and How to Become a Psychologist . If you’re ready to dive into applications, check out College Transition’s best advice on how to optimize your GRE score , the top GRE vocab words to study , and—if you’re worried—how to overcome a low GPA in the grad school admissions process .

• Graduate School Admissions

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Psychological and Brain Sciences

Clinical science f.a.q..

Where can I find...

General information about the department's psychology doctoral programs?

Visit our Graduate Program webpage. More specific information about your clinical science programs?

Visit our Clinical Science webpage.

Information about faculty research interest and ongoing projects? On the Clinical Science page is a list of clinical program faculty and a brief description of their research interests. Click on individual faculty's names for more information about their research interests, and a list of recent publications, or to download their CVs, and link to their personal or lab webpages.

Quantitative information about your program, such as admitted students' GPA, length of the program, internship placement and licensure rates, etc.? Download our Summary of Clinical Science Graduate Applicant and Student Data for statistical data about our applicants, admitted students, and graduates.

Information on how to apply to your program?

Visit our Application Information webpage.

Questions about the Program

What is your program's training model?

We follow the "clinical scientist" model of training. This means that we strongly emphasize empirical research. Our clinical training is intended to support research training, in the sense that good clinical researchers must have first-hand knowledge of the "subject" of their research.

Do you train your students in clinical work as well as research? Yes, clinical training is part of our program requirements, and all those who obtain clinical science Ph.D.s from our program also complete a 1-year internship.

How long does it take to complete the program?

About 78% of our students finish the program in 5-6 years, plus a 1-year internship. Fewer than 10% take longer than 8 years, typically because of a planned interruption in their studies.

What do students do when they graduate?

40% of our 51 graduates over the past 10 years have taken an academic position involving teaching, research, or both. 49% of our graduates are employed in university or VA medical centers where their positions involve a combination of research, training, and direct service provision. Five graduates are in private practice.

Do your students get licensed as clinical psychologists?

Of the 39 students who graduated between 2 and 10 years ago, 34 are licensed (87%). The remaining 5 students are in academic settings that do not require licensure. Of students who graduated less than 2 years ago, all are currently accruing the postdoctoral hours required for licensure in their respective states.

Questions about the Application Process

What are the requirements for admission into your program?

The minimum requirements of the Graduate College are a U.S. bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or an equivalent degree from another country as determined by the Office of Admissions and a minimum grade-point average (GPA) of 3.00, or foreign equivalent as determined by the Office of Admissions. More detailed information about the qualifications of our applicants and those who are admitted is provided below.

What qualities and qualifications do you look for in a student?

We look for students who: 1. want to pursue a research career

2. generally know the area they wish to research

3. have experience in empirical research (preferably, but not necessarily, psychological research)

4. have research interests that are a good "fit" with one of our faculty members‚ 5. have strong and specific letters of recommendation from their research mentor(s) 6. have a strong science/mathematics background, including in particular biology, chemistry, and statistics 7. have a strong academic record (GPA)

How do you select students for admission to your program?

We have a research mentor-based system of training, so students are admitted primarily to work with a particular faculty member. Therefore, "fit" with a faculty member's research interests is extremely important in selecting new students. We are unable to accept even highly qualified students if their research interests do not match with our current faculty's interests.

How can I strengthen my application to increase my chance of being admitted?

Being directly involved with empirical research is the single most important way to strengthen your application.

What is the typical GPA for the students you admit?

In recent years, our admitted students' average GPA is ~3.7. Note - we no longer require GRE and do not use GRE scores in admissions decisions.

Do I need to take the GRE Psychology subject test?

No, the GRE Psychology subject test is not required. However, if you were NOT a psychology major, then doing well on the Psychology subject test is a good way to document that your lack of a psychology background will not be an impediment to your succeeding in our program.

My junior-senior grades and my grades in Psychology are strong, but my overall GPA isn't great. How much will this hurt my chances of being admitted? It depends. If you have good research experience, and your research mentor writes you a strong letter of recommendation, poor grades in your first 2 years of college probably won't hurt you too much. However, the more aspects of your application that are not "top-tier," the more you're at a disadvantage. Remember, our top applicants are quite strong on all dimensions, and they're your competition.

I got a job after college and haven't done any research since then; is that OK? There's certainly nothing wrong with this as long as you still can get a strong letter of recommendation from your former research advisor. However, current involvement in research is better than past involvement, because that conveys that you have an ongoing research interest that you wish to pursue in graduate school. Most, if not all, of our successful applicants are involved in research at the time of application.

Do you accept applicants who did not major in Psychology?

Yes, we do. Although most of our applicants were psychology majors, many are not.

Can I start the Ph.D. program in the spring or summer?

No, we only accept applications for beginning in the fall semester.

Do you take part-time students?

No, our program is for full-time students only.

Can I complete the program by taking only evening and weekend classes?

No, very few classes are offered evenings and weekends.

Do you admit students into a master's degree program?

No, we only accept students into our Ph.D. program, although most of our students do obtain an MA degree on the way to their doctoral degree.

What does the program cost on a yearly basis?

See Program Costs Table.

Is financial aid available? If so, how do I apply for it?

Yes, all admitted applicants are guaranteed funding for 5 years. You do not need to do anything to apply for financial aid beyond completing the application for admission. All graduate students are supported for at least five years if they remain in good standing. Support includes a stipend of $18,816 plus a tuition scholarship, plus 25% of mandatory fees (~$254). In addition, two months of summer support is normally provided.

Are the following people appropriate to write letters of recommendation? 

For International Students

Do you accept international students?

Yes; about 10% of our students are international students.

Do international students have to take the GRE?

No. We do not require the GRE for admission to the program.

Are there additional admission requirements for international students?

Yes, international students must take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

For Students with a Master's Degree

Will my credits transfer?

Most likely some credits will transfer, but there is no guarantee of this. Admitted students must provide the syllabus of any course for which they would like transfer credit. The clinical-area faculty will evaluate the syllabus and qualifications of the instructor for comparability to one of our own courses (including electives), and will recommend transfer credit for those that are substantially the same. Typically, we accept 1 and occasionally up to 2 semesters of coursework for transfer. Please see the following website for the Graduate College's rules regarding: transfer credit (https://www.grad.uiowa.edu/manual-part-1-section-v-credits)

Will I have to write another thesis?

No, we don't require a thesis. We also don't require a Master's degree, although most of our students complete the requirements and get an MA degree. However, we do require that all new students, regardless of their background, complete a research project as described in the Graduate Student Handbook . See pages 2, 6-7.

NOTICE: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an operational name for the State University of Iowa Foundation, an independent, Iowa nonprofit corporation organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, publicly supported charitable entity working to advance the University of Iowa. Please review its full disclosure statement.

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Ph.D. in Cognition & Perception

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The Program in Cognition & Perception spans multiple subareas of psychology, such as perception, attention, memory, categorization, language, emotion, decision-making, development, motor control, and cognitive neuroscience. How do we identify the letter "a"? How do we perceive depth and shape? What representational resources are innate? How do human cultures, and individual children, go beyond innate representational capacities? How do toddlers make decisions about their world? How are explicit and implicit memories coded in the brain? How do we inhibit inappropriate responses? How are sentences understood? How are new concepts acquired? How does attention affect perception?

The Program in Cognition and Perception spans two campuses: NYU in New York and in Abu Dhabi. Our Cognition and Perception faculty page lists the faculty associated with each campus. A Ph.D. student for NYU in New York typically spends five years in New York taking courses and carrying out research. A Ph.D. student for NYU in Abu Dhabi will typically spend two years primarily in New York with multiple visits to Abu Dhabi. During those two years, students complete all or most of their coursework as well as carrying out research in collaboration with an NYU Abu Dhabi advisor and a co-mentor in New York. The subsequent three years are spent in Abu Dhabi completing the dissertation research and any remaining course requirements. For more information on the Global Ph.D. program, click  here .

In the Program in Cognition & Perception, students and faculty investigate how people perceive, think, and act. Research is central in our graduate training. Students are exposed to a broad range of knowledge in cognition and perception and they are trained to think creatively and to develop independent research careers. Students and faculty work closely with researchers in other departments and research centers:  ( Neural Science ,  Computer Science , Data Science ,  Linguistics , and  Philosophy ). Every week there are journal club discussions and talks by leading researchers that take place within the Psychology Department, in other NYU departments, and at other nearby schools in New York City (see Events link). Ready access to researchers at several great universities and to incredible cultural resources makes New York City a great place to study perception and cognition.

Our graduate students begin research immediately. Research includes behavioral methods as well as measurements of motor responses (arm and eye movements, locomotion), brain responses (using fMRI, MEG and EEG), perturbation of brain responses (using TMS) and other physiological measurements (e.g., hormone levels). Students typically work with one faculty mentor, although lab rotations and cross-lab collaborations are also frequent and encouraged. Ours is a highly collaborative Program with many research projects that combine the expertise of more than one faculty member. Students benefit from interaction with their faculty advisers and the lively exchange of research ideas among students, postdocs, and faculty at theCognition and Perception Area Seminar, many other research seminars and journal clubs in several research areas (Development, Decision-making, Concepts and Categorization, etc.)  and our annual Miniconvention. As a result of this focus on research, our students publish regularly in high-impact journals and go on to become researchers at the best research universities and industrial laboratories.

Students in Cognition & Perception follow a rigorous, highly quantitative/computational curriculum of courses.  Our curriculum is designed to help students master the skills required to accomplish high quality research. Within the first two years, most students have completed the bulk of our primary course requirements. We require students to three courses in Core Content areas, such as Memory, Perception, Attention, Cognitive Development, Psycholinguistics and Cognitive Neuroscience. In addition, we require all students to take at least two courses in quantitative methods, chosen from a wide array of options such as probability theory, simulation, advanced statistical methods, etc. In addition, there are advanced seminars in areas related to the research areas of the faculty and students. The complete curricular requirements for the PhD are listed here .

A key aspect of our program is its strength in cognitive neuroscience. A key aspect of this is our full set of on-site, research-dedicated facilities for cognitive neuroscience research, including fMRI, EEG, MEG, TMS, etc.  The  Center for Brain Imaging  and other cognitive neuroscience resources are designed to allow students the training and opportunity to become experts in cognitive neuroscience. Through a combination of course work and hands-on experience, students receive training in the techniques of cognitive neuroscience and apply these techniques to their chosen research questions.

The department is strong in graduate mentorship. Together with faculty from the Center for Neural Science and the Department of Neuroscience at the School of Medicine, faculty from the Department of Psychology participate in the monthly event series " Growing up in Science " (featured in Science ), in which guests tell their life stories with an emphasis on struggles, detours, doubts, and failures. Many of our PhD students attend. The series organizer, Prof. Wei Ji Ma, is faculty in our department. The students learn outside of courses and labs, including several journal clubs (most student-organized). We also have developed a policy that encourages summer internships (e.g., in industry). Many students also participate in science advocacy through the Scientist Action and Advocacy Network . As a program and as a department we encourage student participation at all levels, including student representatives to Psychology and Program faculty meetings and faculty search committees.

Students join a laboratory and begin to design and carry out a research project in their first semester. Students are required to write up and present their research in our annual Miniconvention at the end of the first and second years, and also present their research in our Area Seminar during the fourth year. We encourage students to collaborate with more than one faculty member, including doing a full laboratory rotation or two. Students may work with primary Cognition & Perception faculty or with affiliates from other programs (e.g., Social Psychology) or departments (e.g., the Center for Neural Science).

We consider the best experience that students can have to become productive researchers is to carry out, write up, and present their research projects. The 1st- and 2nd-year research requirements emphasize this goal. The content and methods courses are designed to provide students with the context and tools they need to produce world-class research on their own. By and large our students are highly successful once they complete the Ph.D. Some students remain in academia, continuing on to postdoctoral research positions and faculty jobs. Because of the particularly string quantitative and computational training they receive, our graduates are in high demand for jobs in Data Science (mostly in New York and the San Francisco Bay Area) as well as other industry positions (e.g., with virtual/augmented-reality companies). After graduating, most of our students have gone on to research careers (see Alumni )

All students accepted into our graduate program are fully funded through the Henry M. MacCracken Program or the NYUAD Global PhD Fellowship.

MacCracken funding is provided through a combination of teaching assistantship, research assistantship, and fellowship, in proportions to be determined. The award package typically includes a full tuition scholarship, comprehensive health insurance and a stipend. Funding is typically guaranteed for five years, although students with substantial graduate credits or a Master's degree may only be guaranteed four years of support.

NYUAD Global PhD Fellowships include full tuition scholarship, health insurance, travel benefits, and a stipend. Funding is for five years, which typically includes two years or less of course work in New York and the remaining at least three years or more of dissertation research in Abu Dhabi. Campus housing in Abu Dhabi is provided free of cost and is available to all Global Fellows.

There is a very limited supply of subsidized housing available for graduate students in New York which is generally used for a subset of each entering class to provide them the opportunity to get settled in New York City during their first year of residence.

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• Capella University Blog

Which psychology field is right for me?

May 15, 2024

Reading time: 4 minutes

Are you interested in using theory, analysis and evidence-based approaches to understand how people think, learn, develop and behave and to help them thrive? If you want to explore new ways to make a difference, the options for discovering your professional path in psychology may seem endless – and you may have found that you need advanced knowledge and skills to take the next step.

What skills can I develop with a psychology degree?

The specific skills that can be useful in the field of psychology will vary depending on the area of study you pursue and your degree level. Some of the broad skills that are important to develop include:

• Communication: Strong communication skills are an asset for helping individuals, groups or organizations, conveying research findings or working with colleagues.
• Ethical awareness: You may be required to handle sensitive information, which means respecting confidentiality.
• Analysis and critical thinking: When you conduct research or work with your stakeholders, you should be able to interpret data and understand how to apply what you know to different situations.
• Patience: Making progress toward specific goals takes time, whether it’s discussing solutions with a patient or conducting research on a study.
• Empathy and active listening: Understanding and recognizing the feelings of others starts with giving your full attention and knowing how to recognize verbal and nonverbal cues.
• Inclusivity: Recognizing the diverse perspectives of people and their communities and examining your own biases can help you adapt your approach to different needs.

Which area of psychology is right for me?

As you explore areas of psychology, these questions may help you figure out your interests:

• Who do you want to help?
• Are you more interested in clinical or applied areas of psychology?
• What issues do you want to focus on?

Your answers to these questions can help you find paths to explore, including degree options that could help you pursue your professional goals. You will need to conduct your own research to understand what opportunities may be available to you. Note that some professional paths may require you to have previous experience, licensure,* certifications or other designations along with a degree.

While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome – such as a job title, promotion, salary increase or other career outcome – we encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

*It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.

What can you do with a psychology degree?

Based on where your interests lie, explore some fields of psychology and degree options offered by Capella.

Clinical psychology:  Study human behavior and help people build wellness and emotional resilience.

• BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling & Therapy
• MS in Clinical Psychology
• PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Behavioral health:  Treat populations in distress to improve emotional, social and mental health.

• BS in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis
• MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis
• PhD in Behavior Analysis

Developmental psychology:  Promote positive development, social growth and emotional changes throughout all stages of life.

• MS in Psychology, Child & Adolescent Development
• PhD in Psychology, Developmental Psychology

Educational psychology: Study how people learn and retain knowledge.

• MS in Psychology, Educational Psychology
• PhD in Psychology, Educational Psychology

School psychology:  Apply principles of educational and developmental psychology to meet behavior and educational needs in a learning environment.

• MS in School Psychology
• EdS in School Psychology
• PsyD in School Psychology

Industrial/organizational psychology:  Support leaders and organizations through an understanding of human behavior to help create efficiencies and advance team performance.

• MS in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology  

Learn more about Capella’s  bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral psychology programs and graduate certificates.

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