harvard university counseling psychology phd

• Introduction

Harvard Griffin GSAS strives to provide students with timely, accurate, and clear information. If you need help understanding a specific policy, please contact the office that administers that policy.

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Questions about these requirements? See the contact info at the bottom of the page. 

The psychology PhD program has two tracks: the common curriculum for students in the developmental, social, and cognition, brain, and behavior (CBB) areas, and clinical psychology for students in the clinical area.

Departmental Requirements for the PhD in Psychology

Section i. common curriculum requirements.

All students in developmental, social, and CBB must complete the following requirements. Course requirements are completed by achieving a grade of B+ or better. Statistics and proseminar courses should be completed by the end of the second year. All other required courses should be completed by the end of the fourth year.

• PSY 2010, Contemporary Topics in Psychological Research
• PSY 1950, Intermediate Statistical Analysis in Psychology  
• PSY 1952, Multivariate Analysis in Psychology 
• two out of the following three survey courses: PSY 2020, Cognition, Brain, and Behavior Proseminar; PSY 2500, Proseminar in Social Psychology; or PSY 2170, Developmental Proseminar 
• two elective courses from a list of courses approved by the Committee on Higher Degrees (CHD). 

Master of Arts (AM)

Students may be recommended for the non-terminal degree of master of arts upon completion of the relevant Harvard Griffin GSAS residence requirements, course requirements listed above, and first- and second-year projects described below under Section III.

Section II. Clinical Psychology Requirements

All clinical students must complete the following requirements. Course requirements are completed by achieving a grade of B+ or better:

• PSY 2010, Contemporary Topics in Psychological Research 
• PSY 3200, Research Seminar in Clinical Science (years 1–3) 
• PSY 2040, Contemporary Topics in Psychopathology 
• PSY 2050, History of Psychology 
• Traditional Option: A six-hour  General Examination  covering in considerable depth the literature in the area of psychopathology and clinical psychology.
• Major Area Paper Option: This can take the form of a comprehensive review paper, a meta-analysis, or an extended grant proposal. The topic of the MAP must be approved by the Clinical Area Faculty in advance. The MAP must be submitted by February 1 of the G3 year. 

Students must take the additional courses mandated by the American Psychological Association:

• PSY 3900 Professional Ethics
• PSY 2445 Psychological Treatment Research 
• PSY 2070 Psychometric Theory and Methods
• PSY 2430 Cultural and Individual Diversity
• PSY 3250 Psychological Testing
• 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 1702 The Emotional Mind); social bases of behavior (e.g., PSY 2500 Proseminar Social Psychology); PSY 3515 Graduate Seminar 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 practicum in psychological assessment and treatment beginning in their second semester of their first year and running through their third year (PSY 3050). Students also attend the twice-monthly clinical science “brown bag” speaker series.

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.

• Students must complete a  one-year clinical internship . Students must complete all of the above requirements described in section II before beginning the internship. In addition, students must meet the course requirements and the practicum placement requirements of the APA and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts licensing board before beginning the internship.
• Finally, students must meet or exceed the  standards for professional conduct and responsibility  that are described in the clinical program handbook. Failure to meet these standards can be grounds for termination from the clinical program, even if a student is in good academic standing.

Students may be recommended for the non-terminal degree of master of arts upon completion of the relevant Harvard Griffin GSAS residence requirements, course requirements listed above, and first- and second-year projects described below under Section III.

Section III: Requirements for All Students

First year project.

Students must complete a  first-year project . Students must write a satisfactory proposal for an original research project (not a review) that is approved by their faculty advisor(s) by the end of the fall semester of their first year. Students must complete the proposed project and submit a satisfactory written report to their faculty advisor by the end of the spring semester of the first year. 

Second Year Project

Students must complete a  second-year project . Students must write a satisfactory report of an original research project (not a review) that is approved by their faculty advisor(s) by the end of the spring semester of their second year. Students must also make a satisfactory oral presentation of this work to the department in May of the second year. 

Dissertation Prospectus 

By the end of the spring semester of their penultimate year, students must complete a  dissertation prospectus  for an original project that is meant to culminate in the dissertation. 

The prospectus committee will comprise three members, at least two of whom must be faculty members in the psychology department. The prospectus committee members are to be nominated by the student and their advisor and approved by the CHD. (Members who are tenured or tenure-track faculty members in the psychology department are automatically approved). The student must supply the CV of any proposed members who are not tenured or tenure-track faculty members in the psychology department. 

The department requires that the prospectus be approved by the end of the spring semester of the penultimate year. (Note that students who wish to apply for the guaranteed Dissertation Completion Fellowship must observe the Harvard Griffin GSAS deadline, which requires that the prospectus be approved by the prospectus committee by early February of the student’s penultimate year. Harvard Griffin GSAS also requires the submission of two draft chapters or one of three articles to the advisor before applying for a completion fellowship). 

Students whose prospectuses have not been approved by the prospectus committee by the end of the spring semester of the penultimate year will be considered to be making unsatisfactory progress and will have to petition the CHD for an extension.

Dissertation and Defense 

In the ultimate year, students must submit a PhD dissertation in one of two formats.

• The  traditional format  is described in detail here. 
• Three articles describing original empirical research that the dissertation committee deems “of publishable quality.”  The student must be the first author on each paper. At least one of the three papers must be under review, in press, or published in a peer-reviewed journal.
• An introductory chapter that thoroughly reviews the literature relevant to the three papers 
• A concluding chapter that describes what was learned from the three papers 

The dissertation must be submitted to the dissertation committee which will comprise the members of the prospectus committee and an additional outside examiner. The outside examiner must be approved by the CHD. The outside examiner is typically a tenured or tenure-track faculty member at Harvard University, though other qualified individuals may be approved by the CHD. The outside examiner should be someone whose primary expertise is in a topic area other than the one covered by the dissertation.

Once the dissertation committee approves the written dissertation, the student may schedule an oral defense of the dissertation. Immediately following the defense, the committee meets privately to make a final evaluation of the student’s candidacy for a PhD. If the committee agrees upon a positive evaluation, they sign the Dissertation Acceptance Certificate, which must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office along with the final dissertation by the deadline.

Teaching is not required, but many students teach to earn a living stipend beginning in the third year. Students are required to take both the fall and spring term iterations of PSY 3555 Instructional Styles in Psychology during their first year of teaching. 

Satisfactory Progress

Students who fail to achieve satisfactory grades in courses (UNSAT, B or lower, Incomplete), fail to make progress in research (e.g., not completing the Second-Year Project in a timely manner), fail to pass the general exam at the PhD level, or fail to receive satisfactory evaluations are subject to termination from the program. 

Contact Info 

Psychology Graduate Program Website

Graduate Office Department of Psychology William James Hall 210 33 Kirkland Street Cambridge, MA 02138 617-495-3810 [email protected]

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Mental health at Harvard

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Psychology Master’s Degree Program

Deepen your understanding of human behavior. Advance your career.

Online Courses

11 out of 12 total courses

On-Campus Experience

2 weekends or a 3-week summer course

$3,220 per course

Program Overview

Psychology is an in-demand field, and a master’s degree in psychology provides a solid foundation for a variety of different career paths. Job opportunities for psychologists are expected to grow, but those in certain specialties — such as substance abuse and family therapy — are even more sought after. And with many companies putting a greater emphasis on their employees mental wellbeing, professionals who have advanced psychology degrees are in greater demand.

Our well-rounded curriculum exposes you to a range of topics in psychology, cognitive science, and human development. Under the guidance of renowned faculty from Harvard and peer institutions, you’ll develop a greater understanding of how environmental and biological factors interact to determine cognitive, emotional, and psychological functioning.

Program Benefits

Customizable path, stackable certificates, & experiential learning

Instructors who are academics and professionals at the top of their fields

Personalized academic advising

Faculty research and internship opportunities

A faculty-supported thesis or applied research project

Harvard Alumni Association membership upon graduation

Customizable Course Curriculum

Our curriculum is flexible in pace and customizable by design. You can study part time, choosing courses that fit your schedule and align with your career goals. In the program, you’ll experience the convenience of online learning and the immersive benefits of learning in person.

As you work through the program’s core courses, you’ll deepen your knowledge of essential psychology concepts, tools, and strategies. You’ll then build on that foundation by selecting elective courses that enable you to focus on the areas that are most important to you — for example, neurobiology, racial equity, or mindfulness. And you’ll culminate the experience with either a capstone or thesis.

Along the way, you can choose to earn a graduate certificate in Topics in Human Behavior by selecting courses that stack toward both credentials.

11 Online Courses

• Synchronous and asynchronous formats
• Fall, spring, January, and summer options

You’ll complete 1 on-campus course, Engaging in Scholarly Conversation, at an accelerated or standard pace:

• 2 weekends (1 in fall and 1 in spring)
• A 3-week summer session

Capstone or Thesis Track

• Thesis: features a 9-month independent research project with a faculty advisor
• Capstone: includes exploring a topic and completing a project in a classroom community

The path to your degree begins before you apply to the program.

First, you’ll register for and complete 3 required courses, earning at least a B in each. These foundational courses are investments in your studies and count toward your degree, helping ensure success in the program.

Getting Started

We invite you to explore degree requirements, confirm your initial eligibility, and learn more about our unique “earn your way in” admissions process.

A Faculty of Psychology Experts

You’ll learn from Harvard faculty and industry leaders who will help you gain real-world perspectives. Our instructors are renowned experts in clinical psychology, neurobiology, psychopathology, and more. They bring a genuine passion for teaching, with students giving our faculty an average rating of 4.6 out of 5.

Shelley Carson

Associate of the Psychology Department, Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Bobbi Wegner

Adjunct Lecturer on Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education

Teaches Motivation, Groups and Culture

Adrienne Tierney

Research Advisor, Psychology Master’s Program, Harvard Extension School

Our Community at a Glance

Many of our students in the Psychology Master’s Degree Program are established professionals looking to make a career change (33%). Others are earning the degree for career advancement (23%) or as preparation for further advanced study (25%).

Download: Psychology Master's Degree Fact Sheet

Average Age

Course Taken Each Semester

Work Full Time

Would Recommend the Program

Professional Experience in the Field

Pursued for Career Change

Career Opportunities & Alumni Outcomes

Graduates of our Psychology Master’s Program work in the fields of mental health, research, healthcare, human resources, and education. Some alumni continue their educational journeys and work toward a PhD, including at Harvard Graduate School of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, or Harvard School of Public Health. They have also pursued further studies in other nationally ranked degree programs, including those at Johns Hopkins University, Columbia University, and Brown University.

Our alumni have gone on to work in a variety of roles, including:

• Postdoctoral Fellow
• Guidance Counselor
• Clinical Psychologist
• Academic Coordinator
• Research Program Manager
• Clinical Supervisor
• HR Consultant

Career Advising and Mentorship

Whatever your career goals, we’re here to support you. Harvard’s Mignone Center for Career Success offers career advising, online tools, employment opportunities, career fairs — including the Ivy+ Just in Time Virtual Career Fair — and connections to Harvard alumni mentors.

Your Harvard University Degree

Upon successful completion of the required curriculum, you will earn your Harvard University degree — the Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Extension Studies, Field: Psychology.

Expand Your Connections: the Harvard Alumni Network

As a graduate of the master’s degree program in the psychology field, you’ll become a member of the worldwide Harvard Alumni Association (400,000+ members) and Harvard Extension Alumni Association (29,000+ members).

As an international student, I could not have imagined that it’s possible that there would be this kind of community.

Mariam in an entrepreneur who launched her startup through the Harvard Innovation Labs.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.

After admission, you may qualify for financial aid . Typically, eligible students receive grant funds to cover a portion of tuition costs each term, in addition to federal financial aid options.

Coffee Chat: All About Liberal Arts Programs at HES

Are you interested in learning more about liberal arts graduate degree programs at Harvard Extension School? Attendees joined us for an informational webinar where they had the opportunity to connect with program directors, academic advisors, and alumni.

How long does it take to complete the psychology graduate program?

Program length is ordinarily anywhere between 2 and 5 years. It depends on your preferred pace and the number of courses you want to take each semester.

For an accelerated journey, we offer year round study, where you can take courses in fall, January, spring, and summer.

While we don’t require you to register for a certain number of courses each semester, you cannot take longer than 5 years to complete the degree.

What can you do with a master’s degree in psychology?

A master’s degree in psychology can open doors to a range of psychology-related careers, such as a behavioral counselor, career advisor, or drug and alcohol specialist.

This type of degree can also enhance non-psychology careers, like those in the fields of advertising, human resources, and retail sales.

Understanding human behavior is an invaluable skill that spans industries and careers.

What is the difference between a master’s degree in psychology and clinical psychology?

Both types of master’s degrees provide a detailed look into human behavior.

However, a psychology master’s degree can be broader in scope and more widely applicable to a variety of careers, while a clinical psychology masters is more specialized for analyzing and treating a range of mental health disorders.

What skills do you need prior to applying for the psychology master’s degree program?

Harvard Extension School does not require any specific skills prior to applying, but in general, it’s helpful to have solid communication, critical thinking, and active listening skills if you are considering a psychology master’s degree.

Initial eligibility requirements can be found on our psychology degree requirements page .

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

Counseling and Mental Health

Smith Campus Center 4th Floor 75 Mount Auburn Street Cambridge, MA 02138

View our website for hours of operation, as well as services and resources provided by CAMHS.

Phone Numbers: Emergency: Dial 911 Office: (617) 495-2042

How to Find Help

• The CAMHS Cares line 617-495-2042  is a 24/7 support line available to Harvard students who have mental health concerns, whether you are in immediate distress or not, on-campus or elsewhere. At all times, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, students can follow the prompts to speak directly with a CAMHS Cares Counselor about an urgent concern or if you just need to talk to someone about a difficult challenge or mental health issue.
• On business days, same-day CAMHS urgent care appointments are available by calling CAMHS at 617-495-2042, press one, and request an urgent care appointment. CAMHS urgent care appointments are available in-person at our Smith Campus Center location in the CAMHS offices on the fourth floor of HUHS during business hours (8am to 6pm Monday through Thursday and 8am to 5pm Friday). Telemedicine options may also be available.
• In a life-threatening emergency call HUPD at 617-495-1212 or 911.

Care Providers

David abramson, md.

Keyse Angelo, LICSW

Arash Ansari, MD

Amanda Beals, LICSW

Tara Cousineau, PhD

Carmen Cruz, LICSW

Julia Curran, MSW, LICSW

Augusta Davis, LICSW

Matthew Fadus, MD

David C. Gaydos, LICSW

Donald Graham, LICSW

Crystal Han, MD

Kim Herrmann, LICSW

Michael Hinckley, LMHC

Motria (Mona) Huk, MD

Doris Iarovici, MD

Janet Lawrence, LICSW, LADC1

Barbara Lewis, MD

Josué Miranda Quiles, LICSW

Daniel Moreno, LMHC

Rebecca Nelson, LMHC

Melanie Northrop, MSW, LICSW

James O’Rourke, PsyD

Dawn Parker, LICSW

Omni Patel, LICSW

Anjana Rajan, Psy.D.

Sarah Rayner, LICSW

Evy Tran, LICSW

Frances Turnbull, EdD

Kevin Wehmhoefer, LICSW

Megan Willette, LMHC

Rue Wilson, EdD

Kathryn Zioto, MD, MPH

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Harvard University Master’s in Clinical, Counseling & Applied Psychology

The main focus area for this major is Clinical Psychology . For more details on this concentration, visit its profile page.

Clinical, Counseling & Applied Psychology is a major offered under the psychology program of study at Harvard University. We’ve gathered data and other essential information about the master’s degree program in clinical psychology, such as if the program is offered online, ethnicity of students, how many students graduated in recent times, and more.

If there’s something special you’re looking for, you can use one of the links below to find it:

• Graduate Cost
• Online Learning
• Student Diversity
• Related Majors
• Focus Areas

Featured Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Become a champion of change and take your first step toward licensure as a clinical mental health counselor with this specialized and CACREP-accredited online clinical counseling master's from Southern New Hampshire University.

MS in Psychology

Our Master of Science in Psychology program is designed to extend your knowledge and discipline in psychology, preparing you for a wide variety of professions and contexts.

How Much Does a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Harvard Cost?

Harvard graduate tuition and fees.

During the 2019-2020 academic year, part-time graduate students at Harvard paid an average of $0 per credit hour. No discount was available for in-state students. The average full-time tuition and fees for graduate students are shown in the table below.

Does Harvard Offer an Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology?

Online degrees for the Harvard clinical psychology master’s degree program are not available at this time. To see if the school offers distance learning options in other areas, visit the Harvard Online Learning page.

Harvard Master’s Student Diversity for Clinical Psychology

Male-to-female ratio.

Of the students who received their master’s degree in clinical psychology in 2019-2020, all of them were women.

Racial-Ethnic Diversity

Of those students who received a master’s degree at Harvard in clinical psychology at 2019-2020, none were racial-ethnic minorities*.

Master’s in Clinical Psychology Focus Areas at Harvard

Clinical, Counseling & Applied Psychology students may decide to major in one of the following focus areas.

Majors Related to a Master’s in Clinical Psychology From Harvard

You may also be interested in one of these majors related to clinical, counseling and applied psychology.

View All Clinical, Counseling & Applied Psychology Related Majors >

*The racial-ethnic minorities count is calculated by taking the total number of students and subtracting white students, international students, and students whose race/ethnicity was unknown. This number is then divided by the total number of students at the school to obtain the racial-ethnic minorities percentage.

• National Center for Education Statistics
• O*NET Online

More about our data sources and methodologies .

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UMass Boston

• Counseling Psychology PhD

Preparing counseling psychologists for advanced careers as scholars and practitioners.

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association since 2015, UMass Boston's PhD in Counseling Psychology prepares doctoral-level professional counseling psychologists for careers as scholars, university faculty, and practitioners.

Our scientist-practitioner training model prepares students to:

• deliver high quality, evidence-based psychological services and interventions
• employ applied research skills to improve practice and explore social and psychological issues
• serve as effective instructors and teachers
• use innovative approaches to solve problems related to educational and mental health care disparities, improve services for underrepresented populations, and employ systems-level change strategies to advance local and global social justice

Why Apply to UMass Boston's Counseling Psychology PhD Program?

The UMass Boston Counseling Psychology program prepares the next generation of counseling psychology scholars, teachers, and social justice advocates. We believe in the benefits of working with a variety of research methods and theoretical approaches, receiving guidance from multiple mentors, and understanding how to think about human rights and social justice as they apply to local and transnational contexts.

Start Your Application

Plan Your Education

How to apply.

Applicants must meet general graduate admission requirements in addition to the following program-specific requirements:

• Test Scores: Effective 2021, GRE scores are no longer required for admission to the PhD program
• Letters of Recommendation: 3
• Writing Sample: Yes
• Applied master's degree required. We are accepting applications from candidates who will have completed an applied master's program with supervised clinical experience (e.g., Mental Health Counseling, School Psychology, School Counseling, Social Work, and other programs) prior to the Fall admission.
• Minimum of five social science classes (preferably psychology, human development, and statistics)
• Completed project or academic paper
• Statement of purpose: The Statement of Purpose is your opportunity to tell the faculty why you are interested in counseling psychology, to share the reasons why you are applying to UMass Boston in particular, and to describe your training and career goals, as well as how our program may support your progress toward those goals. Many people link their interest to specific faculty expertise as that helps us match applicants to specific faculty for interviews on the interview day.
• Transcripts
• Résumé/Curriculum Vitae

Deadlines & Cost

Deadline: December 1 for fall

Application Fee: The nonrefundable application fee is $75. UMass Boston alumni and current students that plan to complete degree requirements prior to graduate enrollment can submit the application without paying the application fee.

Program Cost Information: Bursar’s Website

Graduate training at the UMass Boston Counseling Psychology Program will prepare students for taking the EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology); however, requirements for sitting for the EPPP vary by state licensing boards. The Counseling Psychology Program has reviewed the licensing requirements for all U.S. jurisdictions to determine eligibility (see below). Please note that not all graduates choose to take the EPPP.

U.S. Boards of Psychology in Which Graduates Would Be Eligible to Sit for the EPPP Upon Completion of the Doctoral Program

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia (DC), Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming

U.S. Boards of Psychology in Which Graduates Would NOT Be Eligible to Sit for the EPPP Upon Completion of the Doctoral Program Without Additional Coursework

• California: additional coursework in human sexuality; alcohol/chemical dependency detection and treatment; child abuse assessment; spousal/partner abuse assessment, detection, and intervention strategies; aging and long-term care; and suicide risk assessment and intervention is needed.
• Maine: additional coursework in family or intimate partner violence screening and referral and intervention strategies, including knowledge of community resources, cultural factors, evidence-based risk assessment, and same-gender abuse dynamics is needed.
• New York: Unable to determine if a graduate is eligible. The doctoral program must be registered by the New York Licensing Department as licensure qualifying or determined by the department to be the substantial equivalent in accordance with the Regulations of the Commissioner. Please contact the New York Office of the Professions for specific details on the licensure requirements. Note: We have many alumni who are licensed in NY but historically this state has had additional requirements.

The program is designed to take five years of full-time study, including a full-time internship. Students who enter with a master’s degree in counseling or another applied field will have a reduction in required course credits to the extent their master’s level courses match our required courses, however, it is required that students complete a minimum of three years on campus plus internship. The majority of students have completed the program with four years on campus plus one additional year of internship.

Foundational Courses (18 Credits)

• COUNSL 608 - Psychopathology and Diagnosis 3 Credit(s)
• COUNSL 620 - Life Span Human Development 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 641 - Cognitive and Affective Foundations 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 660 - Physiological Bases of Behavior 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 680 - History & Systems in Counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 705 - Social and Cultural Psychology 3 Credit(s)

Prevention, Assessment, and Intervention Courses (6 Credits)

• COUNSL 614 - Counseling Theory and Practice I 3 Credit(s)

Complete one of the following:

• COUNSL 613 - Vocational Development and Career Information 3 Credit(s)
• COUNSL 615 - Counseling Theory and Practice II 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 706 - Personality Assessment 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 713 - Advanced Career and Group Theory and Practice 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 717 - Advanced Theory and Practice in counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 752 - Health Psychology: Current Theory, Research, and Interventions 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 780 - Supervision and Training in Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 783 - Practicum in Counseling Psychology I 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 784 - Practicum in Counseling Psychology II: Evidence-Based Practice 3 Credit(s)
• PSYCLN 727 - Emotion-Focused Psychotherapy 3 Credit(s)
• SPY G 602 - Standardized Assessment and Report Writing 3 Credit(s)

Research Courses (18 Credits)

• CSP 703 - Research in Counseling and School Psychology 1-6 Credit(s)
• CSP 704 - Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods in Counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 708 - Intermediate Statistics in CSP 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 770 - Advanced Statistics in Counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 891 - Dissertation Seminar 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 899 - Dissertation Research 1-9 Credit(s)

Teaching Requirement Course (3 Credits)

• CSP 782 - Teaching in Counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)

Social Justice & Systems Change Courses (12 Credits)

• CSP 701 - Social Justice in Counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 702 - Foundations and Ethics in Counseling Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 787 - Advanced Practicum III in Counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)
• CSP 801 - Transnational Social Justice in Counseling and School Psychology 3 Credit(s)

Graduation Criteria

Complete 73 credits from 19 courses including six foundational courses; two prevention, assessment, and intervention courses; six research courses; one teaching requirement course; and four social justice and systems change courses. Students who enter with a master’s degree in counseling or a related field will have a reduction in required course credits to the extent their master’s level courses match our required courses.

Capstone: Students starting with a Bachelor’s degree must complete a capstone project based on CSP 704 and 708 consisting of a literature review paper on a topic approved by the faculty advisor. Doctoral candidacy: Completion of a qualifying paper, a critical and synthetic review of a focused body of literature in the area in which the student plans to complete the dissertation. Dissertation: Compose and defend a research project (quantitative or qualitative) that makes a substantive contribution to the knowledge base in counseling psychology or school psychology. It is usually completed by the end of the fourth year, although students may choose to complete the dissertation during or following the internship year. Practicum: Participate in two semesters of practicum. Internship: Complete one full-year of Internship. During the fourth or fifth year after having met all course requirements. Teaching: Co-teach at least one semester. Research Team: Participate on at least one faculty-student research team for five semesters.

En Route Master’s Degree: Students may, with the approval of the program director, apply to receive an MA degree en route to the PhD. To qualify, students must complete 36 credits of course work and the capstone project.

Statute of limitations: Eight years.

Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data

Counseling Psychology PhD Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data

Contact & Faculty

Graduate Program Director / Director of Training Sharon Horne sharon.horne [at] umb.edu (617) 287-7495

Counseling & School Psychology Graduate Programs csp.admissions [at] umb.edu

Counseling Psychology PhD Faculty

• Gonzalo Bacigalupe
• Laura A. Hayden
• Sharon Horne
• Sharon Lamb
• Meredith Maroney
• Takuya Minami
• Kerrie Wilkins-Yel

Learn more about faculty, students, alumni, and the program with the Counseling & School Psychology newsletters .

About Our PhD Programs

Hear why our students chose UMass Boston's Counseling & School Psychology PhD programs.

Counseling & School Psychology

Learn more about UMass Boston's Counseling & School Psychology department, our research, and our faculty.

College of Education & Human Development

Learn more about the faculty, research, and programs that make up our College of Education & Human Development.

Accreditation

The Counseling Psychology Program has been continuously accredited since 2015 by the American Psychological Association Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation. Questions related to the program’s APA accreditation status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

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

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Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) - Counseling Psychology

Develop exceptional  mental health counseling skills with a psyd in counseling psychology.

Expert mental health counselors are essential for a healthy society, but there often aren’t enough counselors to meet demand. With a Doctor of Psychology degree in Counseling Psychology from University of the Pacific, you can develop the skills required to fill this vital need.

Our PsyD degree helps you advance a career as a mental health practitioner by providing a deep knowledge base in psychology, clinical skills and research skills. Over the course of the four-year Counseling Psychology program, you’ll study counseling, assessment, ethics, psychopharmacology and more to become a well-rounded, effective counselor.

A flexible approach to earning your Doctor of Psychology degree

This PsyD program is taught through a flexible hybrid model that helps you fit your coursework into your busy schedule. Online you will find lectures, discussions, quizzes and more, so you can study new material when it’s most convenient to you.

Meanwhile, you’ll spend your valuable in-person class time on interactive learning. In-person learning takes up just one to two days a week, minimizing the time you have to spend commuting.

Stockton Campus Location

Hybrid course format, in-person 1-2 days/week.

Our PsyD in Counseling Psychology is crafted to give you in-depth knowledge in all the topics needed to be an effective counseling psychologist. What sets this Counseling Psychology program apart, though, is our commitment to giving you hands-on experiences and a flexible learning model.

Get In-Person Experience in the Field

Every PsyD candidate completes an internship before graduating, so you’re guaranteed to enter the workforce with practical experience on your resume. You’ll also have opportunities to practice your skills in practicum placements in various types of counseling settings.

Fit Your Studies Around Your Busy Schedule

We understand that you have a lot going on, from existing jobs to family obligations and more. So we’ve designed a hybrid PsyD program that mixes synchronous and asynchronous online learning with one to two days of face-to-face classes. Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid learning without sacrificing valuable in-person interaction.

Connect with Practioners and Researchers

The faculty of our counseling psychology program includes expert practitioners engaged in impactful research. You’ll also gain networking opportunities through practicums and your internship, so you’ll be able to establish a professional network while completing your PsyD degree.

Learn Alongside a Cohort of Peers

Courses for this Doctor of Psychology follow a predetermined sequence, so you’ll have no confusion about what to take next. More importantly, you’ll get to progress through the program alongside a cohort of fellow students, learning from and supporting each other as you take classes together.

“At University of the Pacific, we value and teach students to be reflective practitioners, collaborative leaders and lifelong learners. Students benefit from close working relationships with dedicated and passionate professors. Our distinguished faculty members are firmly engaged in the local community and provide students with exceptional opportunities for experiential learning.”

-Justin Low, Program Lead, University of the Pacific

What Can You Do With Your Doctor of Psychology Degree?

Once you’ve graduated with your PsyD degree, you’ll be able to help fill San Joaquin County’s pressing need for mental health professionals. Counseling jobs are available in mental health clinics, hospitals, private practices and schools — essentially, almost any setting you may be interested in

Mental health counseling is a growing field in high demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that jobs for mental health counselors will grow by 22 percent by 2031, a rate that’s much higher than the national average. Earning a PsyD in Counseling Psychology positions you to take advantage of this growth.

Explore Courses for the Doctor of Psychology

We’re committed to providing a foundation in both theory and practical applications for every aspect of counseling psychology in our PsyD program. Topics you’ll study include:

• Development
• Ethical practice
• Psychopharmacology
• Neuropsychology
• Research methods

Specific courses for the PsyD degree include practicum-based classes dedicated to developing hands-on experience, a group counseling course that teaches the theories of group dynamics through participation in group learning, and more.

Take the Next Step to Your Doctor of Psychology Degree

We take a hands-on approach with our students. This means we want to get to know you throughout your discovery and application process. Help us connect with you by taking the next step toward earning your PsyD in Counseling Psychology

Graduate Degree Programs Related to Counseling Psychology

3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton, CA 95211

Nevada Today

College of education and human development hosts awards ceremony, this year, 24 awards were given to outstanding students, faculty and staff in the college during the spring celebration.

Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED) received the Excellence and Innovation Award in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

The College of Education & Human Development held its annual Spring Celebration awards ceremony on April 16, 2024. More than 125 people gathered for the event at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa Paradise Ballroom.

The celebration honored the outstanding accomplishments of the College's students, faculty and staff. It also recognized the generous donors who support the students and the impactful work within the College.

President Brian Sandoval opened the evening by describing the College's historical significance and remarking that it is close to his heart, as both his mother and daughter are graduates of the College. He also congratulated the award-winners and spoke about their commitment to excellence and outstanding work in advancing education in Nevada. Donald Easton-Brooks, Ph.D. , dean of the College of Education and Human Development, thanked the donors for generously supporting the students through scholarships, the faculty for producing cutting-edge research, and the students for their incredible perseverance and hard work. “The Spring Celebration honored the achievements of faculty and students and recognized our donors for their wonderful support,” Easton-Brooks said. “It also celebrated the profound impact these individuals have on our community and reaffirmed the College’s commitment to life-changing learning.”

Quentin Smith, M.Ed. , director of development, was the master of ceremonies. He also held a silent auction featuring playful artwork creations from the children in the Child and Family Research Center .

Smith emphasized the importance of collaboration and working together to achieve any endeavor that a group can accomplish expeditiously. He exclaimed, "Why walk through life when you can run with the Pack?"

Keynote speaker Kristen Remington, 2 News Anchor, gave an inspirational message about an educator who made a difference in her life. By believing in her and having high expectations, her teacher helped shaped her from being a shy student to now a news anchor. She remarked that our faculty and students make such a positive impact through their mentorship. The highlight of the evening was Associate Dean Eleni Oikonomidoy, Ph. D. , honoring the Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities with the Excellence and Innovation Award in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

“It was wonderful to celebrate the numerous accomplishments of the College's students, faculty and staff," Oikonomidoy said. "We would like to thank President Sandoval and our keynote speaker Kristen Remington for their powerful words and Quentin Smith for a wonderful job hosting the event. A special thanks also goes to our donors for believing in our mission and contributing to the College’s success.”

Student awards included:

Eneida castaneda-sanchez: dana davis award.

The Dana Davis Award recognizes graduate students specializing in secondary education who exemplify the qualities of devotion to high academic standards, personal integrity and love for students. The award is in honor of Professor Dana Davis, who was a distinguished College of Education faculty member for 26 years. 

Nicole Murphy: Mary Demchak Memorial Award for Doctoral Student Research in Intellectual Disabilities

The Mary Demchak Memorial Award for Doctoral Student Research in Intellectual Disabilities was established in honor of Mary Demchak by her daughter, MaryAnn Demchak, Professor of Special Education. Mary enjoyed spending time with her daughter's special education doctoral students. It brought her joy to listen to them discuss their research areas. She was inquisitive about each student's progress and was known to motivate them by asking, "What's next?" in hopes of getting them to expand their research. Through this award, Mary will be remembered for inspiring doctoral students to move their research forward. 

Jake Yoxsimer: The Marshall R. Matley Distinguished Scholar in Special Education

This award recognizes individuals working toward a Master's Degree in Special Education and Disabilities Studies.

Joel Peixoto: Edwin S. Dodson Educational Leadership Award

This award recognizes students who are principals, administrators or others working toward administration preparation. 

Miranda Lopez: Dr. George Hill & Dr. Ginny Knowles Leadership Award

This award recognizes a graduate student pursuing a master's degree in educational leadership. 

Argent Alvarez Maloof: The John A. Bailey Professional Expectancy Award in Counseling

This award recognizes the outstanding graduate of the year in Counseling and Educational Psychology. 

Alixandra White: Ross Family Outstanding Social Studies Education Award

This award was established to reward and encourage outstanding students to pursue a degree in the teaching of social studies and to bring attention to the importance of social studies as part of all students' education.

Outstanding College of Education and Human Development student awards:

• Suzanne Lewis, Outstanding Doctoral Student
• Peji Romo, Outstanding Master's Student
• Marina Vallejo, Outstanding Undergraduate Student

New this year was the Shane and Katherine Templeton Outstanding Doctoral Student in Literacy Award , presented by Dianna Townsend, Ed.D., professor of literacy studies to Stephanie Bacon, Monika Bharti, Rachel Knecht, Widya Ramsey and Vickie Smith Barrios.

College of Education and Human Development faculty and staff awards:

• Nevada Center for Excellence in Disabilities (NCED) : Excellence in Innovation in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Sarah Mitchell, Ph.D., CFLE , assistant professor of Human Development and Family Science: Judith S. Bible Teaching Excellence in Education Award
• Pamela Payne, Ph.D., CFLE , associate professor of Human Development and Family Science: Outstanding Outreach
• Dianna Townsend, Ed.D. , professor of Literacy Studies: Outstanding Graduate Advisor and Outstanding Faculty Research
• Rose Ann Gutierrez, Ph.D. , assistant professor of Equity and Diversity in Education: Outstanding Rising Researcher
• Shane Templeton, Ph.D.: Emeriti Faculty Legacy
• Ramya Fernandez, CPA, MPH , Fiscal and HR Officer: Outstanding Administrative Faculty
• Kristy Reynolds , Learning & Resource Center Administrative Director: Outstanding Support Staff

Impact & Student Success

Faces of the Pack: Micah Woodruff

A Q&A with the recipient of the Sam Lieberman Regents’ Award for Student Scholarship

Makerthon competition has students design products to address challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness

Team Mathemusicians takes home $2,000 prize for ‘c-kube,’ a secure storage solution

Sagebrushers season 3 ep. 2: Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Melanie Duckworth

President Sandoval welcomes new leader who will guide university efforts to enable inclusive excellence for students, faculty and staff

The University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing ranks as top nursing program in the country

2023 National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX®) nursing graduate passing rates place the University at the top of the charts in the state and country

Editor's Picks

Earth Month events focus on increasing campus sustainably, gardening, thrifting and more

Anthropology doctoral candidate places second in regional Three-Minute Thesis Competition

A look at careers of substance and impact

NASA astronaut Eileen Collins shares stories at Women in Space event

Center for Urban Water Conservation celebrates 30 years of research

Public invited to tours, presentations and native plant sale

Reno/Sparks selected to be part of Urban Heat Mapping Campaign

The summer 2024 effort will involve community volunteers and is supported by the National Institutes of Health, NOAA, Climate.gov and Heat Watch

A passion for learning: Ph.D. candidate reflects on the importance of growing from mistakes

Lauren Parker studies cellular molecular pharmacology and physiology

Join Extension to celebrate Arbor Day with a tree planting ceremony

Registered attendees will have the opportunity to learn from arborists and win a prize

Journalism school hosts 59th Scripps Dinner and Lecture, honors four students with scholarships

Steven Waldman, founder and president of Rebuild Local News, was this year’s Scripps lecturer

Wilderness medicine program director leads a life of adventure

Wilderness and sports medicine specialist Arthur "Tony" Islas, M.D., wields his expertise on and off the path

Grand opening of new School of Public Health building

Ribbon cutting ceremony marks the new home of the School of Public Health at the Edna S. Brigham Building

Classical Tahoe returns to the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe

Celebrate music and the beauty of the natural landscape from July 7-August 4

Master’s Study in Psychology

Develop the understanding, professional skills and empathetic approaches that are critical for success in psychology with a master’s degree in psychology from Adelphi University in New York.

Three Degree Options

Choose from MA programs in general psychology, mental health counseling, and school psychology. Each offers optional specializations and valuable field placements.

Making Your Degree Affordable

Adelphi and the Derner School of Psychology offer many ways to help you pay for master’s study, including graduate merit scholarships, scholarships for master’s psychology students, teaching assistantships and even employer tuition reimbursement.

A master’s degree in psychology opens doors to a wide variety of careers and can serve as a pathway to a doctorate.

Derner’s master’s in psychology programs give you the knowledge, training, critical reasoning skills and cultural competence you’ll need to excel in your career. Each includes optional specializations to help you focus on your interests:

• General Psychology: Human Resource Management, Substance Abuse Counseling
• Mental Health Counseling: Global Mental Health, Substance Abuse Counseling
• School Psychology: Bilingual School Psychology, Autism Specialization

Our rigorous master’s programs also offer part-time options and flexible schedules to meet our students’ work or family responsibilities.

Graduate Psychology Programs

Exceptional hands-on training.

As a master’s student at the Derner School of Psychology, you’ll gain clinical skills through practica and internships in local healthcare settings, schools, agencies and organizations, and community services offered by Adelphi. You can also gain valuable experience—and earn money to help cover tuition—in graduate assistantships.

Field Placements

Field experience is a vital part of our master’s degree programs, helping you develop the professional skills and the cultural competence to thrive in any working environment.

Graduate Assistantships

Working with faculty, staff and students helps cover the cost of your graduate education. Choose from research, testing or departmental assistantships.

“A number of professors in this program have made a profound impact on my development. The coursework, practica and internship experiences helped prepare me to obtain a job prior to graduation.

Mentoring Future Psychologists

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Awards & Recognition

Earn Your Master’s Degree at the Derner School of Psychology

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Find a Meaningful Career With a Counseling Degree

April 15, 2024

Education College

Help Change Lives for the Better With a Counseling Degree

The field of psychology is far-reaching. It includes broad categories, such as the study of mind-body connection, brain and cognitive science, or rehabilitation methods that improve the quality of life for people living with disabilities and chronic health conditions. Contained within these divisions, there are a wide variety of subfields and meaningful career choices that attract students who want to become psychologists. At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, we offer several counseling degrees, including an accelerated bachelor’s degree program, advanced degree programs, and traditional degree programs for psychology majors .

Psychology Degrees Open Career Doors

There is an obvious need for mental health counselors in every global demographic and economic sector today. The professionals who take up this vocation are rewarded with work that helps change lives for the better. For those who want to make a real difference in their community, the counseling degree programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota are a good way to find your niche in the field of psychology. Additionally, if you are searching for fulfilling, worthwhile work that upholds your values, you can explore the role of a mental health counselor.

Counseling Degree Programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

We welcome students, including adult learners, from all backgrounds and stages of life. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers counseling degree programs that include in-person classroom experiences, dynamic online learning options, and hybrid versions that include both.

Our psychology and counseling degree programs include:

Psychology Major, B.A.

The psychology major  is a traditional undergraduate program  held at our Winona campus. In addition, students enrolled in other fields of study can choose to minor in psychology.

B.S. in Applied Psychology

An online program designed for students who have already earned some college credits, the B.S. in Applied Psychology  is an accelerated program focused on helping them complete their degree. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota accepts transfer credits from a wide variety of schools, educational programs, and life experiences.

M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services

Earn an advanced counseling degree either online or by attending in-person classes in Minneapolis or Rochester or our online cohort. The M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services  program can be completed in 2.5 years and prepares students to qualify as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Minnesota.

M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy

Taught on campus in Minneapolis , our M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy  program prepares counselors to help couples and families achieve and maintain emotionally healthy relationships with each other and within their communities. Graduates are prepared to seek licensure with the Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy.

Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology

This on-campus program (Minneapolis) was created for students who have already earned a master’s degree and want to pursue a doctorate. There also is an opportunity for students to take advantage of an accelerated program that combines early entry into the M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services program and direct transition into the Psy.D. in Counseling Psychology  program.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota also offers an Online Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies  for students who want to earn a counseling degree focusing on clients with substance use disorder. Drug use that leads to suicide, overdose, and broken communities is on the rise, and there is a real need for counseling degree holders who specialize in this field.   Upon completion of this program and licensure from the State of Minnesota, pursue a career as a mental health or chemical health counselor, treatment program supervisor, in-patient mental or chemical health treatment provider, or intensive outpatient treatment provider.

Discover the Benefits of Our Lasallian Catholic Education

The tradition of Lasallian Catholic education  at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota blends well with the goals of our counseling degree programs. Our high ethical standards and mission to serve imbues every program, supporting the goals of mental health counselors and psychologists who want to make a difference in the world. We promote the practice of compassion and understanding within the field of psychology, encouraging our students to gain much-needed skills and insights that will help them find fulfillment in counseling roles.

Explore Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota with a virtual or in-person campus visit . We also offer information sessions on programs to help potential students find the right program. Likewise, our admissions  staff is experienced in helping adult learners and other students enroll in programs, transfer credits, and develop personalized educational plans.

Make Your Next Career Meaningful

We all have different talents, gifts, and aspirations. Finding the right career that is fulfilling and shares our value system is a worthy goal. If you want to help people improve their relationships and life situations, consider earning a counselor degree at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. For more information, contact us  today.