PsyD Programs
PsyD programs are intensive educational training programs designed for the
ambitious student who hopes to earn the hard-won professional doctorate degree
required to become a doctor of psychology. The Psy.D. credential enables an
individual to become either a counseling psychologist or practicing clinical
psychologist.
PsyD programs follow a slightly different structure than Ph.D. programs. While it is
true that the doctorate of psychology is similar to a Ph.D. in the sense that it requires
extensive coursework and original research, PsyD programs differ in that the focus
is on applied research. Since the ultimate aim of a PsyD candidate is to practice
clinical psychology, it follows that he or she would derive the greatest benefit from a
heavily application-based approach. For these reasons, the Ph.D. is considered a
research doctorate while a PsyD is considered a professional doctorate.
PsyD programs are organized on the basis of direct and frequent application of
students’ theoretical knowledge. Although there is some variation in the details of
the program from country to country, clinical psychology is rooted in a deep
understanding of the scientific method and the behavioral sciences (e.g. psychology,
cognitive science, psychobiology, social neuroscience, etc.). Consequently, PsyD
programs train candidates to apply this knowledge in a clinical setting.
The majority of PsyD programs take between 4 and 7 years to finish. During this
time, the candidate receives training in assessing and diagnosing patients,
measurement and testing, clinical psychotherapy, neuroscience training, research
methods, experimental design and more. PsyD candidates also have to complete
practicum programs under professional supervision. This then leads to a
supervised internship at clinics. Finally, in order to receive the PsyD credential, the
candidate must typically submit a doctoral dissertation.
An attractive alternative to attending traditional PsyD programs is to earn your
degree online. Most individuals who have never worked toward a degree with
demanding coursework understandably assume that online programs are less
intense or less educational. The truth is that online PsyD programs make the same
demands upon students as physical attendance-based programs. They both require
the same extensive coursework, timely completion of assignments, participation in
class discussions via webcam and communication with one’s professors to ensure a
thorough understanding of the assigned material. While this approach lacks reallife interactions, there are also many benefits including location independence and
lower tuition costs.
After completing their PsyD programs, psychologists have one remaining hurdle:
they must take and pass the local licensure examinations. After successfully passing
the exams, there is a wide variety of work that they can do. Psychologists can work
in hospitals, schools, offices and mental health clinics. Some psychologists choose to
work primarily with children or the underprivileged. One very lucrative career
option that has become increasingly popular among graduates is private consulting
with corporations, startups, sports teams and other clients seeking to optimize the
performance of their organizations. Many psychologists prefer to work with
individuals one-on-one and open their own psychotherapy practices.
PsyD programs are difficult and immensely rewarding for the student who truly
loves psychology. Here are some final things to consider before applying for a Psyd
program:
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You will need a Master’s degree from an accredited institution with
coursework pertinent to your field of study
You will need a specific GRE score (requirements vary by institution)
You will be required to provide personal and professional references
You may be required to have already acquired some clinical experience
PsyD programs can cost in the tens of thousands of dollars per year