Clinical Psychology Degrees
Considering graduate education in clinical psychology? Check out the guide from the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology.
MSW (Masters in Social Work)
|
Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology)
|
Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy)
Click here for a comprehensive guide to clinical Ph.D. programs: (Prinstein, 2017) |
Differing Curriculums for Psychology Programs
Psy.D.
|
Ph.D.
|
Psy.D. curriculum tends to focus on clinical training and practice, though research is still a part of it to a lesser degree. As a result, those who earn a Psy.D. should most often be motivated towards a career in clinical practice, as opposed to research or academia-related careers.
|
Ph.D. curriculum tends to focus on research rather than clinical practice, though the ratio between the two can differ based on the program. While those with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology can become licensed for clinical practice, and often do, the education tends to better lend itself to a future in research and academia (teacher, administrator).
17) |
Links for Examples of Curriculums for Psychology Programs
Differing Careers and Specializations for Psychology Programs
MSW
|
Psy.D.
|
Ph.D.
|
Additional Licensing
MSW
|
Psy.D.
|
Ph.D.
|
Link for Additional Information on Becoming Licensed
Differences between MSW, Psy.D., and Ph.D.
|
Ph.D.
|
Weekly Time Commitment
- The time commitment of a Ph.D./Psy.D. work week can drastically vary based on the individual and the work one wishes to put in.
- Much of the work that is often undertaken by graduate students is external to classes- such as teaching, research, clinical experiences.
Planning to apply?
Check out the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology guide.
Look for accredited programs:
Look for accredited programs:
- Be sure to evaluate:
- Acceptance rate, Average GREs, GPAs (What is the likelihood that your application will be accepted?)
- Program cost (Is this financially possible for you?)
- Time to completion (Does this fit with your goals?)
- Attrition rate (Are other students staying in the program?)
- Licensing rate/ EPPP pass rate (Will your program prepare you for licensure?)
- Acceptance rate, Average GREs, GPAs (What is the likelihood that your application will be accepted?)