What is the PsyD?

The PsyD stands for Doctor of Psychology and is similar to the PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or the EdD (Doctor of Education) in academic standing. The PsyD was developed in the late 1960’s in reaction to the limitations of the scientist-practitioner model (Boulder Model) of the Clinical PhD. The PsyD is designed primarily to train psychologists to be clinicians able to work in a wide range of clinical settings. The emphasis is on clinical work and focused less heavily on research than PhD programs. The degree is rapidly growing in both numbers and respectability therefore making it a viable option to pursue.

What is the difference between a PsyD program and a PhD program?

The most glaring difference between the two programs is that the PhD focuses more on research whereas the PsyD focuses more on clinical training. Many PsyD programs are four years in length whereas PhD programs are five years. Do not think that because a PsyD does not focus as heavily on research as the PhD that research is not required, because it is. In a PsyD program a student will still have to take statistics and write a doctoral dissertation.

Where are the programs located?

PhD programs are located throughout the country in a variety of institutions. There are about 175 APA approved clinical PhD programs. APA approved PsyD programs are only offered at 30 schools around the country, seven of which are in California. APA approval makes licensing easier to attain and also helps with job and internship placement following degree completion. PhD programs tend to be offered in more prestigious institutions. If you are interested in getting a degree from a prestigious institution, then a PhD would be the better option to pursue. PhD programs offer more  financial support than do PsyD programs and there is also a greater opportunity for support within a university than within a professional school.

What do you need to get in?

*scores listed below are for the average student accepted to a university offering both programs

                                                PsyD                                             PhD

Overall GPA                         (3.1) 3.49                                     (3.4) 3.62

Psychology GPA                     3.67                                            3.80

GRE-V                                 (533) 585                                     (598) 620

GRE-Q                                 (544) 580                                     (598) 610

GRE-Psych                           (542) 595                                     (587) 619  *1

          *scores in italics are the average scores of students accepted; scores in parentheses are the minimums requested by the universities
 
 

PsyD’s also emphasize:                                             PhD’s also emphasize:

    Work experience                                                    Research experience

    Clinically related public service                             Letters of recommendation

    Letters of recommendation

    Interview

    In general, admission to PhD programs is more competitive, and an applicant should have research experience including activities such as presentations, contest participation and publications. Although PsyD programs do not have as stringent GPA and GRE score requirements they do look more heavily upon clinical experience such as peer advising, volunteering at a shelter, etc. (More information about such opportunities can be found in Peer Advising.  There is a book called Insider's Guide to Clinical Programs which is very helpful.)
 

What can and can’t you do with a PsyD?

A PsyD prepares you to work in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from family therapy to working with severely disturbed patients in mental institutions. With a PsyD you can get licensed in any state as a clinical psychologist. Pay scales are comparable to those earned by clinical psychologists with PhD’s. You may also teach courses relating to therapy but most of the positions available will be on a part-time basis. PsyDs are limited in attaining full time faculty positions in traditional academic institutions because of their perceived lack of research knowledge. It is also difficult to get employment as a researcher in a business setting.
 

What can and can’t you do with a PhD in clinical psychology?

With a PhD in clinical psychology many avenues are open. It is possible to become a full professor, researcher, practicing therapist, consultant or some combination of these. A PhD in  clinical psychology is the most versatile psychology degree available. It does not close any of your options. This is the better choice for someone who is not absolutely sure what he/she wants to do in the future or who wishes to perform in a variety of roles.

 Who is more satisfied with the job?

PsyD’s tend to be more satisfied with their training whereas PhD’s tend to be more satisfied with their work. This may change in the future because the PsyD is gaining greater acceptance in the field. *2
 

Which program should you go into?

This decision is largely up to you, the student. Keep in mind that you may be spending four to six years in the program that you choose, so carefully explore what you will be doing in your time there. Do not go to the most prestigious school just for that reason, because you may be miserable there and not complete the program. Try to find a program that fits your needs and future goals.
 
 

More information on specific programs offering these degrees can be found in:

-APA Graduate Study in Psychology

-Insiders Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical Psychology

*the peer advisors will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
 
 

                                           References:

   *1.Getting In (1993), A Step by Step by Step Plan for Gaining Admission to Graduate School in Psychology, APA.
   *2.Mayne, T.J., Norcross, J.C. and Sayette, M.A. (1994). Admission Requirements, Acceptance Rates and Financial Assistance in Clinical Psychology Programs. American Psychologist, 45 (9), 806-811.
 

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