phd psychology programs san diego

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Graduate Program

History and overview of the program.

The San Diego campus of the University of California was formally established in 1958 around the nucleus of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. It has since become one of the most renowned research universities in the United States. The Department of Psychology was formed in 1965 and first admitted graduate students in 1966. For the 2021/2022 academic year, there are 79 graduate students in the Department's doctoral program. As of June 30, 2021, 426 doctoral degrees have been awarded.

The Department remains committed to the belief that the best training for a career in psychology, even one in clinical psychology, is a strong background in Experimental Psychology . As such, conducting experimental research is the primary activity of graduate students in our program.

Each graduate student in our Department works closely with one or more faculty advisor(s) throughout their graduate career, in an apprenticeship system that distinguishes our Department from others. Our graduate students are actively involved in research design, implementation, analysis, and publication processes, and they are treated more like colleagues than students. 

Graduate students in our program start off by conducting a year-long independent research project, which serves as a major criterion in the evaluation of our first year students. In addition to conducting well-supervised, original research in their respective labs, our students take classes (seminars and proseminars), teach and mentor undergraduate students, participate in lab meetings and journal clubs, and attend Department-sponsored events, such as Brown Bag meetings and our Colloquium Speaker Series .

Our Department and the greater University are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all our members. Click on the following links to read our Department Climate Statement , and the UC San Diego Principles of Community .

• Research Areas
• Undergraduate Program

School : California School of Professional Psychology

Modality(ies) : On-ground

Calendar(s) : Semester

CIP Code : 42.2801

Program Description/Overview

The Clinical Psychology doctoral program prepares students to function as multifaceted clinical psychologists through curricula based on an integration of psychological theory, research and practice. The program is a practitioner and scholar-oriented program. The curriculum has four major areas of study: foundations of psychology, clinical and professional theory and skills, applied clinical research, and professional growth. Students interested in one of the following areas can further their individual career goals by taking a specialized series of courses, research and field placements related to that area.

Emphasis/Concentration/Tracks

Child/family emphasis.

The program provides a solid generalist education and training in clinical psychology in accordance with the accreditation guidelines of the American Psychological Association. In addition, students may wish to focus their electives in a specific area in preparation of the pursuit of further specialization, which typically occurs at the postdoctoral level. 

“Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology is a specialty of professional psychology, which brings together the basic tenets of clinical psychology with a thorough background in child, adolescent and family development and developmental psychopathology. Clinical child and adolescent psychologists conduct scientific research and provide psychological services to infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents. The research and practices of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology are focused on understanding, preventing, diagnosing, and treating psychological, cognitive, emotional, developmental, behavioral, and family problems of children. Of particular importance to clinical child and adolescent psychologists is a scientific understanding of the basic psychological needs of children and adolescents and how the family and other social contexts influence socio-emotional adjustment, cognitive development, behavioral adaptation, and health status of children and adolescents. There is an essential emphasis on a strong empirical research base recognizing the need for the documentation and further development of evidence-based assessments and treatments in clinical child and adolescent psychology.” (Council of Specialties in Professional Psychology, https://www.cospp.org/clinical-child-psychology , downloaded January 14, 2020).

The aim of the Child/Family Emphasis area is to prepare students who are interested in specializing in child/family psychology by augmenting their generalist training with this foundational knowledge.

Health Psychology Emphasis

Health Psychology is concerned with biopsychosocial factors related to health and illness, the individuals affected, and the health care providers and institutions that serve them. Students who elect the Health Psychology Emphasis Area develop knowledge and skills that integrate the medical/biological domains and the psychological/social domains in order to provide a theoretical and practical foundation for the roles that clinical psychologists play in a variety of health care settings.

Military & Veteran Psychology Experience Area

The Military & Veteran Psychology Experience Area is designed to:

1. Provide students with an understanding of military and veteran culture for therapeutic practice with veterans and military personnel and their families.

2. Familiarize students with evidence-based interventions and resources available to clinicians treating these populations.

Multicultural/Diversity Emphasis

Alliant places great value on issues of individual and cultural diversity, and provides many opportunities to deepen students’ appreciation for and study of the role of diversity in people’s lives and their well-being. Our approach to multiculturalism incorporates diversity in many domains, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, national origin and international status, age, social class, religion, and ability levels.

Central to traditional clinical psychology is the examination of factors known to be relevant to mental health/mental illness as western society has largely defined them. The goal of this emphasis area is to go beyond the traditional western, majority cultural viewpoint of individualism to consider cultural and societal level influences on the individual, as well as their influence on our conceptualization of normal and abnormal human behavior as a field.

The aim of the Multicultural/Diversity Emphasis area is to prepare students who are interested in specializing in this area of study and clinical application by augmenting their generalist training with this foundational knowledge.

Trauma Focused Forensic Experience

Competence in performing forensic work requires specialized training and practice at the postdoctoral level and is dependent on underlying foundational competency in the science and professional practice of psychology. The Trauma Focused Forensic Experience prepares students who are interested in specializing in Forensic Psychology by augmenting their generalist training with foundational knowledge of the core principles of the application of psychology to the legal system, including:

• foundations of the legal system (e.g., types of courts, expert witness requirements, responses to subpoenas);
• basic legal principles that are relevant to Forensic practice (e.g., Constitutional rights, statutory provisions, case law);
• differences in methodologies between general clinical assessment and forensic assessment;
• assessment of insanity and competency (relevant laws, sample evaluation materials);
• assessment issues in trauma populations;
• ethical issues that arise particularly in forensic contexts;
• sociocultural considerations relevant to forensic practice.

Program Learning Outcomes/Goals

Through various academic and training activities, including psychology courses, practicum and internship placements, and supervised research experiences, the San Diego PhD in Clinical Psychology program strives to achieve the following aims:

• To prepare students to be effective professional psychologists who are skilled at evaluating psychological functioning and providing empirically supported interventions with diverse clients across a range of settings.
• To prepare students to evaluate and conduct research in clinical psychology, therefore contributing to the knowledge base in the field.

Program Competencies

All students are expected to acquire and demonstrate substantial understanding of and competence in the following nine profession-wide competency areas:

• Ethical and Legal Standards
• Individual and Cultural Diversity
• Professional Values and Attitudes
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Intervention
• Supervision
• Consultation and Interprofessional/Interdisciplinary Skills

The competencies are met operationally through various academic and training activities that include courses, practicum and internship placements, and supervised research experiences. Multiple data sources are used to assess outcomes relative to these competencies. These competencies specify knowledge, attitudes, and skills that students are expected to achieve by the time they graduate from the program.

Discipline-Specific Knowledge

In addition, all students are expected to possess discipline-specific knowledge in the following four categories:

• History and Systems of Psychology
• The basic content areas of scientific psychology, including affective, biological cognitive, developmental, and social aspects of behavior.
• Advanced integrative knowledge in scientific psychology.
• Research Methods, Statistical Analysis, and Psychometrics.

Training Model

The program offers a well-integrated model of education and training in which research and theory clearly inform clinical practice and in which observations made in the clinical arena inform research questions. The curriculum is a well-balanced articulation of the competencies required for productive scholarship and multiculturally sensitive, evidence-based, professional practice.

Multiculturally relevant knowledge and skills are highly valued by the San Diego PhD clinical faculty and are infused throughout the curriculum. In addition, all students take a required course in multicultural competency development followed by one advanced, multicultural elective. Our selection of clinical practicum agencies affords excellent opportunities for our students to develop multi-culturally competent assessment and treatment skills. Similarly, the diverse community provides excellent opportunities for multicultural applied research, and many students take advantage of this opportunity for their dissertation.

Professional Behavior Expectations/Ethical Guidelines

The program requires all students to abide by the University Student Code of Conduct as well as the American Psychological Association’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.

All psychologists who offer direct services to the public for a fee must be licensed or certified by the state in which they practice. Applicants for licensure in the state of California must hold an earned doctoral degree in psychology, educational psychology, education with a specialization in counseling psychology, or education with a specialization in educational psychology from an approved or accredited educational institution. They also must have completed 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience (of which at least 1,500 must be postdoctoral) and have taken and passed the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the California Psychology Supplemental Examination (CPSE). In addition, they must submit evidence of having completed coursework in human sexuality, child abuse, substance abuse, spousal abuse, and aging and long-term care. Continuing education is required to maintain the license. CSPP doctoral course requirements are designed to fulfill the programmatic requirements for licensure in California.

Every state has its own requirements for licensure. Therefore, it is essential that all Clinical PhD students who plan to apply for licensure in states other than California contact the licensing board in those states for information on state requirements (e.g., coursework, practicum and internship hours, supervision, or nature of the doctoral project or dissertation). Students seeking licensure in other states should plan ahead to ensure they meet all of those states’ requirements.

For further information on licensure in California or other states contact:

Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards PO Box 241245 Montgomery, AL 36124-1245 (334) 832-4580, [email protected]

California Board of Psychology 2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1400 Sacramento, CA 95815 (916) 263-2699, [email protected]

Practice Directorate American Psychological Association 750 First Street NE Washington, DC 20002-4242 (202) 336-5979, [email protected]

Programmatic Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association. 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 Phone: (202) 336-5979 Email: [email protected] Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

Internship, Practicum, and/or Dissertation Information

Field Training

Students learn applied professional skills through formal coursework and through clinical training experiences supervised by faculty and professionals in the community. Each student is assigned a professional training advisor who, along with the student’s core faculty advisor, helps the student to formulate an individualized plan for practicum and internship training designed to insure (a) that training experiences are consistent with the student’s growing skill levels and professional goals and (b) that the student is exposed to a breadth of training experiences with a variety of clinical populations and professional role models.

Clinical practica are taken in the second (800 hours) and third (1,000 hours) years of the program after students have mastered the prerequisite knowledge and skills that provide the foundations on which to build clinical competencies. In addition to obtaining training and supervised practice at a minimum of two distinct practicum placement sites, practicum students enroll concurrently in campus-based clinical consultation groups offered by core and senior adjunct faculty. These groups augment the supervision received at the agencies, ensure integration of classroom and clinical knowledge, support evidence-based practice, and allow faculty to directly assess the development of students’ clinical competencies.

Students select their practicum placements from more than 80 agencies. Most of these facilities are within a 25-mile radius of the campus, but some are as far as 80 miles away for the benefit of advanced students who live in Orange County. These agencies have over 350 professional training positions. The Professional Training Office coordinates these experiences and provides continuous oversight to ensure that students receive high quality clinical training experiences.

Students meet with their site supervisor each week a minimum of 10% of their time at the site. One of the hours must be individual supervision and the rest can be individual or group. Students keep track of their hours at the site each week, which is confirmed by the supervisor.

The doctoral internship is the more extensive training experience for advanced students. All students apply for a full-time, APA accredited clinical internship that is expected to be completed in the fifth year of the program.

Research Training

The knowledge and skills necessary to conduct independent clinical research are introduced during the first year of the program and built upon in the years that follow. Students work with a core faculty member under whose direction the student participates in a first year Research Practicum experience. Students learn to design their own studies in the second year and simultaneously begin their enrollment in the dissertation research course sequence that continues through the completion of the dissertation. Students must complete their dissertation proposals prior to applying for the internship training experience.

Credit Units

Total Credit Units: 150

Total Core Credit Units: 138

Total Elective Credit Units: 12

Total Concentration Credit Units: 12*

*Concentration units are elective units

Degree Requirements

The academic year consists of a 15-week Fall semester, a 15-week Spring semester, and an optional 10-week Summer semester. The program is designed to be a 5-year, full-time program; however, in consultation with their Faculty Advisor, students may develop a modified curriculum plan that leads to completion of the program in fewer or more years, not to exceed 8 years, depending on individual circumstances and needs (e.g., courses transferred from previous graduate programs or taken during summer semesters; need for additional coursework, practicum and/or research experiences needed to round out gaps in training).

All students are required to complete a minimum of four years of full-time study (or the equivalent), amounting to 120 total units, including 30 internship units. The program requires three years in full-time residence, with two years of residency prior to advancement to candidacy for students entering with a Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of the equivalent of one full-time year of residency for students with a Master’s in psychology from a regionally accredited institution who have been granted credit for previous work. Units are considered for transfer after careful review of the previous course syllabi by core faculty members to ensure comparable training. The maximum number of units allowable for transfer from another graduate psychology program is 30 units.

Writing Proficiency Assessment

Please refer to the Writing Proficiency Assessment    requirement in the Academic Policies section for more information.

Program Meeting

During G1 Fall semester, students will engage in a semester long non-coursework, required Program Meeting taught by a Core Faculty member. This meeting is designed to assisting students to becoming acclimated to the full-time, doctoral level lifestyle. This meeting will provide students with vital tips, guidance and information pertinent to their success in the program.

Competency Examinations

All students must pass Competency Exams in Research Methodology (Research Design, Measurement, & Statistics) and Clinical Proficiency.

Timeline for competency exams are as follow:

• Research Methodology Competency Exam: Students are required to pass the exam prior to the fall of their G-3 year. Students who are on a moderated (less-than-full time) schedule must complete this exam by the time they complete 65 units (the equivalent of 2 years in the Program).
• Clinical Proficiency Exam: Students are required to pass the exam prior to Fall of their G4 year. Students who are on a moderated (less than full-time) schedule must complete this exam before accumulating 95 units.

Failure to complete these exams within the stated time period will result in the equivalent of a ‘C’ or Marginal Pass grade for the purpose of evaluation of one’s academic record by Program Faculty and the Student Evaluation & Retention Committee (SERC). Students may not be advanced to doctoral candidacy or apply for the doctoral internship until both exams are passed.

Advancement to Candidacy

Students may apply for Advancement to Doctoral Candidacy when all the criteria below have been satisfied:

• Successful completion of the first two years of the general clinical psychology curriculum and the accrual of at least 60 units of graduate study
• Successful completion of the Writing Proficiency Examination
• Successful completion of all Competency Exams
• Status of academic standing is good (i.e., student is not on warning or probation)
• There are no incomplete grades on the transcript
• The Dissertation Proposal has been approved

Advancement to Doctoral Candidacy is an important event. The decision whether to advance a student is made collectively by the core faculty of the program. It signifies that the core faculty members have reviewed all aspects of the student’s professional preparation and performance and have collectively determined, in their best professional judgment, that the student has demonstrated sufficient competence, and is therefore qualified to enter the final stages of doctoral study. It is unlikely that a student will be proposed for advancement if serious doubts exist about professional suitability.

Students are expected to advance to Doctoral Candidacy by the end of their third year and must be advanced prior to submitting applications for the doctoral internship in clinical psychology.

Prerequisite Courses

Applicants must have completed one of the following three options prior to matriculation. All coursework used to fulfill graduate entry requirements must have been completed prior to beginning the program. All coursework must have been taken at fully accredited institutions. Applicants should use the designated space in the online application to indicate how the graduate entry requirement will be met.

• Earned a BA/BS degree in psychology. (A master’s degree will not fulfill this requirement.)
• Abnormal Psychology or Psychopathology
• Experimental Psychology/Research Methods in Psychology
• Physiological Psychology, Learning/Memory, Cognitive Psychology, Sensation/Perception
• Statistics: The nature of normal distribution, principles of sampling theory, probability, simple statistics (t-tests, F-ratios, chi-square, r, non-parametric), introduction to analysis of variance. May be taken outside the psychology department.
• Abnormal Psychology/Psychopathology: Major disorders, personality disorders, sexual disorders, psychophysical disorders, adjustment reactions, alcoholism and drug abuse, child psychopathology, organic brain syndromes.
• Experimental Psychology: Introduction to scientific procedures and methods in psychology. Directed experience in research design and control, analysis, bibliographic and report writing techniques. May include a specific research techniques course in perception, physiology, learning, or complex behavior (social, cognition).
• Physiological Psychology: The study of human behavior from a physiological viewpoint. Sensorimotor systems, sleep, dreaming and attention, motivation, neural transmission and synaptic function, heredity, drugs, organic brain pathology. Must focus on the relationship between the psychological and physiological aspects of behavior.

Experience with clinical work and research is desirable, but not required.

Emphasis/Concentration/Track Requirements

The following courses are required: 

• PSY85560 - Neuropsychology: Advanced (3 units)    
• PSY63260 - Diversity and the Family (3 units)    
• PSY76020 - Theory and Practice of Psychotherapy: Child (3 units)    
• PSY75030 - Family Psychotherapy (3 units)    
• PSY76530 - Group Therapy for Children and Adolescents (2 units)    
• PSY85430 - Family Violence: Child Abuse (3 units)    

Field Work: 

It is required that students complete two (2) field placements (2 practicums or 1 practicum and 1 internship) in a setting that emphasizes interactions with children and/or families.

Students also are expected to address family, child, and/or development issues in their dissertation.

• PSY66220 - Clinical Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (3 units)
• PSY66200 - Introduction to Behavioral Medicine/Health Service Psychology (3 units)
• PSY76330 - Health Psychology Intervention: Research and Practice Addressing Health Disparities (3 units)
• PSY85560 - Neuropsychology: Advanced (3 units)
• Practicum or internship involving clinical health psychology supervised practice that provides training and supervision in an area of health psychology.

(Note: Students will need to apply and go through the regular application process for the related field experience placements, i.e., APPIC/APA internship application process. The program does not guarantee a field placement in the experience area.)

• It is expected that students will focus their dissertation research on a health-related topic.

(1) Two courses designated for the experience area. Course options include:

• PSY85810 - Interventions with Military and Veteran Members (3 units)    
• PSY85820 - Treatment with Military Couples and Families (3 units)    

(2) One field placement focused on military personnel, veterans, and/or their families (Note: Students will need to apply and go through the regular application process for the related field experience placements, i.e., APPIC/APA internship application process. The program does not guarantee a field placement in the experience area.)

• PSY76330 - Health Psychology Intervention: Research and Practice Addressing Health Disparities (3 units)    
• PSY62450 - Substance Abuse in Diverse Populations (2 units)    
• PSY66540 - Psychology of Ethnic Diversity: (3 units)    
• PSY85002A - Clinical Elective: Advanced Gay And Lesbian Issues And Psychotherapy (2 units)    
• PSY85003F - Clinical Elective: Advanced Study of Transgender Issues (3 units)    
• PSY85400 - Family Therapy/Ethnic Families (3 units)     

It is required that students complete at least one year of professional training placement (practicum or internship) in a setting serving a culturally diverse population. 

Students also are expected to focus on issues of individual or cultural diversity in their dissertation.

• PSY66313 - Introduction to Clinical Forensic Psychology (3 units)    

One Trauma related course, options include:

• PSY76800 - Diversity and Trauma (3 units)    

One Advanced Assessment course, options include:

• PSY75240 - Clinical Inference (3 units)    

Field Work:

At least one of the two required practicum placement involves 30% clinical contact with clients who are frequently seen in forensic settings (e.g., incarcerated individuals; patients in forensic hospitals or pretrial defendants; individuals diagnosed with a serious mental illness; children and families of divorce; clients with trauma histories).

Students are encouraged but not required to develop a research study or their dissertation in a forensic and/or trauma area.

All alternate courses must be approved by the Program Director.

Elective Requirements

Twelve (12) units of elective are required.

Students must take one (1) Cultural Seminar Elective (PSY76100*) and three (3) General Clinical Electives (includes PSY85003A-Z, PSY85013B-N). All electives must be approved by the Program Director. Students are permitted to take up to two (2) electives online with Program Director approval.

Curriculum Plan

Semester calendar, academic year 1 - semester 1 (13.5 units).

• PSY60210 - Advanced Statistics I (3 units)
• PSY61050 - Biological Aspects of Behavior (3 units)
• PSY65230 - Advanced Psychopathology (3 units)
• PSY65240 - Theories of Personality, Pathology and Psychotherapy: Psychoanalytic (3 units) (All emphasis areas, except Health Emphasis students.)
• PSY66220 - Clinical Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (3 units)    (Health Emphasis students)
• PSY60450 - Research Practicum (1.5 units)

Academic Year 1 - Semester 2 (15.5 units)

• PSY60030 - History and Systems of Psychology (1 unit)
• PSY60220 - Advanced Statistics II (3 units)
• PSY65010 - Intellectual Assessment (3 units)
• PSY65200 - Introduction to Psychotherapy (2 units)
• PSY65250 - Theories of Personality, Pathology and Psychotherapy: Behavioral/Social Learning (3 units)
• PSY70100 - Foundations of Measurement (2 units)

Academic Year 2 - Semester 1 (16 units)

• PSY60230 - Principles of Research Design (3 units)
• PSY61160 - Issues in Chemical Dependency and Treatment (2 units)
• PSY65030 - Personality Assessment I (Objective) (3 units) (All emphasis areas, except Health Emphasis students.)
• PSY65240 - Theories of Personality, Pathology and Psychotherapy: Psychoanalytic (3 units)    (Health Emphasis students)
• PSY61290 - Foundations in Multicultural Psychology (3 units)
• PSY75252 - PhD Practicum I (2 units)
• PSY75560 - Practicum Consultation and Ethics (1.5 units)
• PSY70450 - Dissertation Proposal Development (1.5 units)

Academic Year 2 - Semester 2 (17 units)

• PSY61013 - Cognitive & Affective Bases of Behavior (3 units)
• PSY61123 - Social Basis of Behavior (3 units)
• PSY61403 - Developmental Psychology/Lifespan Development (3 units)
• PSY75010 - Theory and Practice of Psychotherapy Individual (CBT) (3 units)
• PSY75262 - PhD Practicum I (2 units)

Academic Year 3 - Semester 1 (15 units)

• PSY71563 - Psychopharmacology (3 units)
• PSY85550 - Neuropsychology: Foundations (3 units)
• PSY85350 - PhD Practicum II (3 units)
• PSY85520 - Clinical Consultation Group (1.5 units)

Academic Year 3 - Semester 2 (12 units)

• PSY84000 - Third Wave Therapies (3 units) (not Health Emphasis students)
• PSY65030 - Personality Assessment I (Objective) (3 units)    (Health Emphasis students only)*
• PSY85360 - PhD Practicum II (3 units)

Academic Year 4 - Semester 1 (11 units)

• PSY75650 - Advanced Ethics and Professional Issues (2 units)
• PSY81200 - Clinical Supervision and Consultation (2 units)
• General Clinical Elective (3 units)*
• PSY89904 - Ph.D. Doctoral Dissertation Research Design and Research Seminar (4 units)

Academic Year 4 - Semester 2 (13 units)

• Cultural Seminar Elective (PSY76100*) (3 units)*
• PSY76330 - Health Psychology Intervention: Research and Practice Addressing Health Disparities (3 units)     (Required for Health Emphasis students; optional Cultural or General Elective for all students)
• General Clinical Elective  (3 units)*

 or 

              PSY84000 - Third Wave Therapies (3 units)    (Health Emphasis students)

Academic Year 5 - Semester 1 (15 units)

• PSY95310 - Full-Time Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology (11 units)

Academic Year 5 - Semester 2 (14 units)

• PSY89903 - Ph.D. Doctoral Dissertation Research Design and Research Seminar (3 units)
• PSY95320 - Full-Time Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology (11 units)

Academic Year 5 - Semester 3 (8 units)

• PSY95330 - Full-Time Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology (8 units)

Summer Semesters are not part of the required program course curriculum (except practicum and internship placements). However, courses that fulfill requirements are sometimes offered in the Summer, such as PSY65030    and elective courses such as Trauma and Diversity and Introduction to Forensics. Students are advised to consult with the Financial Aid office to determined impact of taking summer courses on their Financial Aid during the summer and subsequent semesters. Each student is required to complete four (4) Elective courses, including one (1) focused on cultural or diversity issues. Note that some Emphasis and Experience areas require specific electives. Students must refer to the Student Handbook for more information.

Psychology Graduate Programs in the San Diego Area

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UC San Diego Division of Social Sciences

La Jolla, CA •

University of California - San Diego •

Graduate School

University of California - San Diego ,

Graduate School ,

LA JOLLA, CA ,

School of Leadership and Education Sciences - University of San Diego

San Diego, CA •

University of San Diego •

• • Rating 4.17 out of 5   6 reviews

Alum: The MALS and other Leadership Graduate programs provided by USD prepares academics and professionals alike to generate the best possible organizational outcomes across industries. Balancing theory, research, pedagogy, and applied practice students develop their leadership skills to serve individuals and groups in a variety of settings. The innovative perspective of business has made a significant impact on management structures in recent year and offers a spectrum of career opportunities for multi-dimensional individuals. ... Read 6 reviews

University of San Diego ,

SAN DIEGO, CA ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says The MALS and other Leadership Graduate programs provided by USD prepares academics and professionals alike to generate the best possible organizational outcomes across industries. Balancing theory,... .

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College of Sciences - San Diego State University

San Diego State University •

San Diego State University ,

American University

Graduate School •

WASHINGTON, DC

• • Rating 4.55 out of 5   149

Valparaiso University

VALPARAISO, IN

• • Rating 4.7 out of 5   10

Houston Christian University College of Education and Behavioral Sciences

Houston Christian University •

HOUSTON, TX

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   10

College of Letters and Sciences - National University

National University •

National University ,

College of Humanities, Arts, Behavioral and Social Sciences - California State University - San Marcos

San Marcos, CA •

California State University - San Marcos •

California State University - San Marcos ,

SAN MARCOS, CA ,

University of Arizona Global Campus

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   146 reviews

Master's Student: It has been fifteen years since I have been in college and my last online experience was nothing like it is today. The University of Arizona Global Campus has so many resources and great communications with advisors you're absolutely set up for success. The site is completely user-friendly, making it VERY easy to navigate. I love everything about my online experience this go-around and couldn't be happier at The University of Arizona Global! ... Read 146 reviews

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

Featured Review: Master's Student says It has been fifteen years since I have been in college and my last online experience was nothing like it is today. The University of Arizona Global Campus has so many resources and great... .

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The California School of Professional Psychology

Alliant International University •

• • Rating 4.4 out of 5   5 reviews

Master's Student: I am in the process of starting the Couples/Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Alliant International University. So far I have enjoyed the process with the admissions counselors being very helpful and kind. I have reached out to people in the program and have received very good reviews about the process and curriculum. I have been able to meet some of my future teachers and I am very much excited for the discussions we will have in class and the ability to learn so much more about how the human mind works in relation to our emotional and mental well being. ... Read 5 reviews

Alliant International University ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am in the process of starting the Couples/Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Alliant International University. So far I have enjoyed the process with the admissions counselors being very... .

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School of Social and Behavioral Sciences - Northcentral University

Northcentral University •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   5 reviews

Master's Student: After a year at this school, I have only had positive experiences. The 1:1 ratio of teachers and students has been a very positive experience for me because I feel like I have less busy work, and the work that is assigned is actually helpful in getting me closer to my goal. It was daunting at first to have all online classes, but with the staff being as responsive as they are, it does not feel as isolating as your typical online classes. ... Read 5 reviews

Northcentral University ,

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

Featured Review: Master's Student says After a year at this school, I have only had positive experiences. The 1:1 ratio of teachers and students has been a very positive experience for me because I feel like I have less busy work, and the... .

Southern California Seminary

El Cajon, CA •

• • Rating 1 out of 5   1 review

EL CAJON, CA ,

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

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Tarleton State University

STEPHENVILLE, TX

• • Rating 4.69 out of 5   54

Mississippi State University College of Arts and Sciences

Mississippi State University •

MISSISSIPPI STATE, MS

The New School for Social Research

The New School •

NEW YORK, NY

• • Rating 2.5 out of 5   2

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PhD in Clinical Psychology

Develop your expertise and leadership in clinical psychology.

Offered at these campuses:

Los Angeles

San Francisco

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Phd in clinical psychology program overview in california.

A PhD in Clinical Psychology is a great way to expand your knowledge and skills and increase your career options in the field of clinical science. The clinical psychology PhD program trains clinical students to conduct psychological assessment and research. With a focus on mental health and human behavior, the PhD program prepares you to understand the psychological processes underlying human behavior and the tools used to apply this knowledge in clinical practice, improving communities’ health and well-being.

Whether you’re helping patients with anxiety disorders or studying new advancements in cognitive-behavioral therapy, our APA-accredited Clinical Psychology PhD programs will help you gain the clinical skills needed to get to where you want to be in the mental healthcare industry. You will explore deeper into developmental psychology, community psychology, health psychology, social psychology, and cognitive psychology to name a few in the broad spectrum of psychological science. The California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) offers four PhD degree programs in Clinical Psychology: Fresno, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco Bay Area, each accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). Our experienced faculty members in the program teach challenging courses that meet a variety of guidelines outlined by the APA and offer unparalleled education within the mental health field. Explore our programs below.

To learn more about this program and other offerings, visit our CSPP-dedicated microsite . You’ll find videos featuring our university president, dean of CSPP, and faculty, along with numerous interactive features!

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Explore our program research opportunities, practicum partners, and student communities.

  learn more, program highlights, accreditation.

All CSPP clinical Psychology PhD degree programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association and taught by experienced faculty members.

Research Opportunities

Our Clinical PhD programs are unique in their focus on psychological clinical science research through rich and varied opportunities within the community to help you become a clinical psychologist.

Scholarship Paired with Practice

In our Clinical PhD programs, you will receive clinical training practicum opportunities and will be required to complete a doctoral internship. Depending on your doctoral program, you may also pursue teaching assistantships. All programs provide opportunities to prepare you for licensure and a successful career as a health service clinical psychologist upon graduation.

Get the information you need in order to start your Alliant experience. See the latest admission requirements for your desired program.

Get the information you need in order to start your Alliant experience. Browse our list of diverse faculty members for your desired program.

Degree Information

Specialization.

The clinical psychology programs’ emphasis and experience areas include:

• Clinical health psychology 
• Family/child and couple 
• Multicultural community-clinical psychology 
• Forensic psychology 
• Psychodynamic 
• Clinical health 
• Integrative psychology 
• Multicultural and international 
• Trauma, stress, resilience

Each campus-based APA-accredited program is unique, as are its emphases, specializations, and track offerings. Our clinical psychology program teaches the basic skills needed to work in the field of psychology. In the programs, you'll gain clinical practice experience, which helps to prepare you for entering the workforce as a clinical psychologist. Graduate students of the clinical program will be qualified to give psychological assessments in a clinical setting. Integrating psychological clinical science in the curriculum allows graduates not only to be well-versed in psychological services and public health, but also be prepared to contribute to the advancement of the field.

If you're looking for PhD and PsyD programs in California, please see the doctoral program pages for specifics on emphasis area offerings in the field of psychology.

Both the PhD program and PsyD programs are individually accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association (APA). APA accreditation not only serves as a benchmark for the PhD clinical psychology excellence but also contributes to the professional development of clinical scientists and the overall advancement of the field.

Financial Assistance

Alliant has created a comprehensive program that helps facilitate access and affordability. Financing is available in the form of scholarships, grants, part-time employment, and loans. The federal government, state government, Alliant, and private sources finance these programs. Explore the ways to finance your education here .  

What are the benefits of earning this degree?

Graduates from our psychology department at the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) go on to pursue careers in various fields, leaving a positive impact in both the private and public sectors.

• Your acquired skills qualify you to work in hospitals and medical centers, community mental health clinics, private practice, and universities. 
• You will be equipped to pursue careers in clinical work, research, teaching, or a combination of all three. 
• With a specialization area, you can pursue higher positions in your psychology career

What's the difference between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology?

PhD-based psychology programs are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in research, making it an ideal option for those interested both in clinical practice and in academia. Graduates of the program have a wide range of career options, from conducting clinical research methods to administration and consulting. 

On the other hand, a PsyD program is typically the preferred choice for individuals who are solely interested in the practical application of psychology. It prepares students for a career in clinical practice and provides them with the necessary skills to work in a variety of clinical settings. While a PsyD program places less emphasis on research and academia than a PhD program, it still offers a comprehensive education in the field of psychology.  

What is the typical duration of a PhD program in Clinical Psychology, and can it be completed on a part-time basis?

The duration can vary, but on average, it takes around 5 to 7 years for a PhD student to complete the clinical program. This timeframe includes both coursework and supervised practical experience, such as internships or clinical placements. While some programs may offer part-time options, it's advisable to consult with your Psychology Department to understand the feasibility and implications of pursuing a Ph.D. on a part-time basis.

As an international student, may I apply for the graduate program?

Review the admissions requirements, housing, tuition and other information for international applicants. Learn more

"I couldn’t have asked for more of CSPP—the training opportunities, the practicum, the number of sites that you are given access to— it really delivers in terms of the clinical training…it’s spectacular."

Degree Locations

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Why Alliant

At Alliant, our mission is to prepare students for professional careers of service and leadership and to promote the discovery and application of knowledge to improve lives. We offer an education that is accredited, focused on practical knowledge and skills, connected with diverse faculty and alumni, and aimed at the student experience.

Founded in 1969, CSPP was one of the nation’s first independent schools of professional psychology. Today, CSPP continues its commitment to preparing the next generation of mental health professionals through graduate-level degree programs in clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, clinical counseling, organizational psychology, psychopharmacology, and more.

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Graduate Programs

Doctoral degrees.

All doctoral degrees are offered on the San Diego campus (SDSU) .

How to Apply

• Apply to the university through Cal State Apply .
• Submit required documents to Graduate Admissions .
• Submit department required materials. Please review individual program requirements for more details.

Review more detailed instructions on how to apply on the Graduate Students web page. If you are an applicant who will study in the U.S. on an F-1 Visa , review the International Graduate Students web page.

Department Materials

Submit CSDCAS Program Application . Consult the department website for details concerning required materials.

Fall 2024 Deadlines

• Submit Cal State Apply Application – December 1
• Submit Documents to Graduate Admissions – December 15
• Complete CSDCAS Program Application – January 12

Contact Information

AuD Joint Doctoral Program Campus Location: SLHS 221

Jill Preminger [email protected]

Admissions Coordinator

Janet Park [email protected]

Reya Gredonia [email protected]

Submit Program Application . Consult the department website for details concerning required materials.

• Complete Program Application – December 15

Department of Biology Campus Location: LS 104

Marina Kalyuzhnaya [email protected]

Patricia Swinford [email protected]

Consult the department website for instructions.

Joint Doctoral Program in Ecology Campus Location: LS 102B

Walter Oechel [email protected]

David Lipson [email protected]

Jamie Rhine [email protected]

Submit required department materials using the Program Application . Consult the department website for details.

Evolutionary Biology Campus Location: LS 104

Elizabeth Waters [email protected]

Katherine Zumstein [email protected]  

Medora Bratlien [email protected]

Department of Chemistry Campus Location: GMCS 209 [email protected]

Fall 2024 Deadlines*

• Complete Program Application – November 15

*Applications received by December 1 will be given full consideration. Consult the department website for additional information.

Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology [email protected]

Computational Science Research Center Campus Location: GMCS 206

Jose E. Castillo [email protected]

Parisa Plant [email protected]

• Submit Cal State Apply Application – February 1
• Submit Documents to Graduate Admissions – February 15
• Complete Program Application – April 15

SDSU/CGU Doctoral Program in Education Campus Location: EBA 250 [email protected]

Consult the department website for details concerning required materials.

• Submit Cal State Apply Application – April 1
• Submit Documents to Graduate Admissions – April 15

Department of Administration, Rehabilitation and Postsecondary Education Campus Location: EBA 246

Wendy Bracken [email protected]

• Complete Program Application – March 1
• Submit Cal State Apply Application – August 31
• Submit Documents to Graduate Admissions – September 15
• Complete Program Application – September 15

Educational Leadership Department Campus Location: NE 166

Vicki Park [email protected]

Dalia Corrigan [email protected]

Engineering Joint Doctoral Program Campus Location: E 203

Temesgen Garoma [email protected]

Donovan Geiger [email protected]

• Complete Program Application – January 12

Department of Geography Campus Location: SH 314

Piotr Jankowski [email protected]

Anna Daniels [email protected]

Department of Geological Sciences Campus Location: GMCS 237

Kim Olsen [email protected]

Irene Occhiello [email protected]

School of Social Work Campus Location: HH 119

Campus Director/Adviser

Maria Luisa Zuniga [email protected]

Submit required department materials using the CSDCAS Program Application . Consult the department website for details.

SDSU/UCSD Joint Doctoral Program in Language & Communicative Disorders Campus Location: SLHS 221

Irina Potapova [email protected]

Phil Holcomb [email protected]  

• Complete Program Application – January 7

*All application steps must be completed by January 7 for full consideration for admission. Late Program Applications will be considered on a space-available basis to February 1.

Math and Science Education

Susan Nickerson [email protected]

Debbie Escamilla [email protected]

• Complete Program Application – December 7

*Applicants are encouraged to submit all required materials by December 1 to receive full consideration.

School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences Campus Location: ENS 141

Program Director

Mitchell J. Rauh [email protected]

Gloria Hartman [email protected]

Submit SOPHAS application . Consult the department websites for detailed instructions.

• Epidemiology
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*Applications submitted by November 15 will be given priority consideration. Please consult the department website for additional information.

Joint Doctoral Program in Public Health Campus Location: HT 119

Brenda Fass-Holmes [email protected]

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VASDHS/UCSD Psychology Internship Program

In the AAPI, our site is listed as:

Univ California-San Diego-Consortium/Vet Affairs

Our Program

For over 40 years, the UCSD/VA Psychology Internship Training Program has been training advanced graduate students in clinical psychology to become the next generation of psychologists. We are one of the largest internship programs in the country. Our internship program has been APA-accredited since 1986. We are also a member of the Internship and Postdoctoral Programs in Professional Psychology (APPIC). Our psychology internship program provides rigorous and comprehensive scientist-practitioner training across a diverse range of settings and patient populations. We offer training in evidence-based practices with mood disorders, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, and neuropsychology, among others. Our rotations include both in- and outpatient experiences, with training opportunities across the lifespan, from children to older adults. The psychology internship training program is well integrated into the many training programs within the VA and UCSD Department of Psychiatry, affording psychology interns the opportunity to work alongside other trainees including psychiatry and psychology residents and fellows. Our large program affords a myriad of training resources but there is still a strong sense of community and collaboration as our trainees progress toward independence. Our faculty are strongly committed to training the next generation of psychologists. Interns graduating from our program have been highly competitive and have gone on to post-doctoral fellowships and often to academic faculty positions. Interns are supervised by approximately 40 licensed psychologists, most of whom have ongoing research programs in addition to their clinical work.

Applicant Selection

We especially seek to recruit a diverse internship class as a reflection of our strong commitment to achieve excellence and diversity among our faculty, staff, and trainees. We are interested in applicants who are committed to the highest standards of scholarship and professional activities, and to the development of a climate that supports equality and diversity. We take great pride in our program and our graduates and their professional successes. We look forward to hearing from you and wish you success in meeting your academic and training goals.

For more information on the accreditation status of our program, contact the APA:

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Applicant Manual

Important Dates

If you have any questions about the UCSD/VA Psychology Internship Program, please contact:

• VASDHS/UCSD Clinical Research Postdoctoral Residency
• VASDHS/UCSD Internship
• SDSU/UCSD Joint Doctoral

(Major Code: 20011) (SIMS Code: 778302)

In addition to meeting the basic requirements for the master’s degree as described in Requirements for Master’s Degrees   , the student must complete a graduate program of at least 30 units (36-38 units for the Master of Science degree). Only classified graduate students are permitted to enroll in any 600-numbered (or higher) courses in psychology. The departmental graduate adviser must approve all programs of study except the Master of Science in clinical psychology. For the Master of Science in clinical psychology, departmental approval is provided by the program director of the joint doctoral program.

PSY 670A   - PSY 670B    or PSY 770A   - PSY 770B    are required in all master’s degree programs in the Department of Psychology. In addition, for all degrees other than the Master of Science in clinical psychology, PSY 600 - Research Orientation   , PSY 799A - Thesis   , and an oral examination on the thesis are also required.

Advancement to Candidacy

The student must satisfy the general requirements for advancement to candidacy as stated in Requirements for Master’s Degrees   . Having obtained three grades of C or lower in graduate courses automatically precludes advancement to candidacy.

In addition, students must have an approved thesis proposal prior to advancement to candidacy.

Specific Requirements

The Master of Science degree may be obtained with the following concentrations:

The Applied Psychology Program

The Applied Psychology program (SIMS Code: 778311) has two specializations:

Quantitative Methods Specialization

The specialization in quantitative methods prepares students to properly implement and interpret the results of data analyses common to psychology. The program prepares students to enter into a doctorate program in quantitative psychology or secure non-academic industry positions specializing in analysis of behavioral data.

Of the nine units of graduate electives required, at least six must be selected from psychology; three units of graduate electives should be from other departments with prior approval of the master’s program adviser.

Specific requirements for students selecting the Quantitative Methods specialization (SIMS Code: 778314) are: A minimum of 38 units, 32 of which must be completed in psychology, to include

• PSY 670A - Advanced Statistics in Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 670B - Advanced Statistics in Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 770A - Experimental Design and Data Analysis in Behavioral Research Units: 3
• PSY 770B - Experimental Design and Data Analysis in Behavioral Research Units: 3 But not both.
• PSY 600 - Research Orientation Units: 1 (2)
• PSY 630 - Seminar in Organizational Research and Ethics Units: 3
• PSY 675 - Seminar in Psychological Measurement Units: 3
• PSY 775 - Multivariate Statistics in Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 776 - Multilevel Modeling for Psychological Research Units: 3
• PSY 799A - Thesis Units: 3

Industrial and Organizational Specialization

The specialization in industrial and organizational psychology prepares students to apply psychological knowledge to make decisions and solve problems in organizations. This specialization involves training in theory, research, and practice in industrial and organizational psychology. Although some graduates with a specialization in industrial and organizational psychology continue their studies in a Ph.D. program, most graduates work for corporations or consulting firms in positions involving the development, delivery, and evaluation of human resources interventions.

Three units of graduate electives may be selected from psychology or from other departments with prior approval of the master’s program adviser.

Specific requirements for students selecting the Industrial and Organizational specialization (SIMS Code: 778304) are: A minimum of 38 units, 35 of which must be completed in psychology, to include

• PSY 621 - Seminar in Personnel Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 622 - Seminar in Organizational Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 721 - Advanced Seminar in Personnel Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 722 - Advanced Seminar in Organizational Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 792 - Internship in Applied Psychology Units: 3 (6 units required)

Clinical Psychology

(included within the Ph.D. program; not available separately).

(Major Code: 20031) (SIMS Code: 778309)

UCSD Clinical Psychology 227B (Mind, Brain, and Behavior II) and PSY 897    are optional. Completion of the second year project and approval by a committee consisting of a minimum of three faculty members representing both SDSU and UCSD. For this degree only, all approvals and advancement to candidacy will be completed by the program director of the joint doctoral program.

A minimum of 36 units in psychology to include

• PSY 770B - Experimental Design and Data Analysis in Behavioral Research Units: 3
• PSY 801 - Seminar in History and Ethics in Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 820 - Seminar in Cultural Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 840 - Seminar in Personality and Social Psychology Units: 3
• PSY 849 - Seminar and Laboratory in Counseling and Psychotherapy Units: 4
• PSY 850 - Seminar in Theory and Practice in Clinical Interventions Units: 3
• PSY 855 - Seminar in Psychological Assessment I Units: 4
• Clinical Psychology 227A (Mind, Brain, and Behavior I)
• PSY 856 - Seminar in Psychological Assessment II Units: 4
• PSY 896 - Clinical Practicum Units: 1-15

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Graduate Programs Overview

M.a. program.

Our M.A. Program in Psychology is a research-oriented program designed to prepare students so they are competitive for Ph.D. programs. Students who do not continue onto Ph.D. programs gain experience that prepares them for a number of research jobs in research, medical, and academic settings. In our program, students take classes and conduct research in one of the following exciting areas: Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Physical and/or Mental Health, and Social Psychology.

For more detailed information on our program:  https://psychology.sdsu.edu/graduate/current-ma-students/ma-program-info/

For a handout of program information: https://psychology.sdsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/SDSU-MA-Program-in-Psychology-Overview-2022.pdf For information on faculty research programs:  https://psychology.sdsu.edu/people/faculty-by-research-area/

M.S. PROGRAM

Our M.S. Program in Applied Psychology is a research-oriented program that prepares students for jobs that require the application of psychological knowledge. This program includes a track in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and a track in Quantitative Methods (Quantitative Methods will be replacing the ‘Program Evaluation’ track). This degree enables students to work in corporations, consulting firms, and research labs, and it also can prepare a student for entry into a Ph.D. program. To earn their degrees, students take classes, work in a research lab, complete a required research thesis, and complete 300 hours in an approved internship.

For more detailed information on our program: https://msappliedpsych.sdsu.edu/

HOW TO APPLY

FAQs:  https://psychology.sdsu.edu/graduate/masters-programs/prospective-students/faq-prospective-students/

For a handout of program information: https://psychology.sdsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/SDSU-MS-Program-in-Applied-Psychology-Overview-2022.pdf

Information Session

For more program information, please review the presentation slides from the 2023 Virtual Open House. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ngwqfKiTOYx7qMUppckqP9z1MnH3j5jj

Also, an overview of the department’s programs is available to watch from the 2022 information session  recording .

Other Programs of Interest

I nterested in becoming a counselor.

Our M.A. program focuses on research and not counseling. If you are interested in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or school psychology, please look at the programs offered through the College of Education at SDSU: https://education.sdsu.edu/csp/programs-of-study/school-psychology . SDSU also has a master of social work program: https://socialwork.sdsu.edu/degrees-programs/graduate-programs/

Interested in the Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology?

For information on the joint SDSU/UCSD doctoral program in Psychology:  http://clinpsyc.sdsu.edu/