psychology phd programs in washington state

Clinical Psychology Graduate Program Description

The Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program at Washington State University (WSU) is located at the WSU-Pullman campus. Pullman, WA is a rural community in southeastern Washington, 8 miles west of the Moscow, ID (University of Idaho), 80 miles south of Spokane, WA, and 290 miles southeast of Seattle, WA. There are approximately 17,000 undergraduate students and 2,000 graduate students at the Pullman campus. In addition to the main campus in Pullman, the Department of Psychology also has clinical faculty at three regional campuses located in Spokane, Tri-Cities (Richland, WA—approximately 150 miles southwest), and Vancouver, WA (approximately 360 miles southwest).

ACCREDITATION

The doctoral program in clinical psychology has been continually accredited since 1956 by the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation.

For information about our accreditation status, you can contact the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association , which can also be reached at:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation 750 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20002-4242 Phone: 202-336-5979 TDD/TTY: 202-336-6123 Fax: 202-336-5978 [email protected]

PROGRAM AIMS

The Clinical Psychology Program at Washington State University is based on the scientist-practitioner model of training. The Program is designed to integrate theory, research, and clinical practice in the training of students. Students are involved in research activities each semester in the Program and clinical practica beginning in the second year until the start of the 12-month internship. The aims of the program are to produce graduates who (a) have a broad knowledge of scientific psychology; (b) can provide evidence-based clinical services that are consistent with ethical and professional standards, including knowledge of and sensitivity to issues of diversity; and (c) are capable of contributing to current knowledge in clinical psychology.

To accomplish these aims we expect all students to achieve discipline specific knowledge in 1) the history and systems of psychology, 2) basic knowledge in scientific psychology, 3) integrative knowledge in scientific psychology, and 4) methods of inquiry and research; and to demonstrate profession-wide competencies in the areas of

• Ethical and legal standards
• Individual and cultural diversity
• Professional values, attitudes, and behaviors
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Intervention
• Supervision
• Consultation and Interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills

Given that our graduates can potentially make contributions to clinical psychology in academic, research, medical, clinical, or community settings dependent on their interests and goals, the Program provides broad, general clinical training during the four to five years that students are at the University. Our program requires full-time commitment in pursuit of a Ph.D. and, therefore, we do not have a terminal Master’s degree program. Instead, Master’s degrees are awarded during work toward the Ph.D. The program offers both adult- and child-focused training with opportunities in Neuropsychology, Clinical Health Psychology, and Psychopathology. The program is successful in placing students in top internships nationwide. Clinical Program graduates are employed in a variety of professional settings including university and medical center faculty positions and independent practice.

RESEARCH TRAINING

Science is at the core of health service psychology, and the Clinical Program operates on the proposition that research training is an integral part of the education of clinical psychologists, relying on the most current evidence-base when training students. Although the program admits only persons who expect to receive a Ph.D., each student who enters at the bachelor’s degree level is expected to complete an empirical master’s project while in progress toward the doctoral dissertation. In addition to the master’s project and dissertation, clinical students are expected to be involved in research activity under the direction of a faculty member during each semester in residence. Clinical doctoral students present their research at scientific meetings as well as publish their research. These research endeavors are an important part of graduate training and professional development.

CLINICAL TRAINING

Assessment and psychotherapy with clients begins in the fall semester of the second year of graduate training and continues through the completion of the clinical internship. To provide broad clinical training for students, the Department of Psychology offers a variety of supervised clinical experiences working with diverse individuals who present with a spectrum of symptoms and conditions. The Psychology Clinic in the Department of Psychology is staffed by faculty and clinical graduate students and provides adult and child assessment, diagnostic, and psychotherapy services on a sliding scale to the University and surrounding communities. The University Counseling Services is staffed by clinical psychology graduate students, interns, and faculty psychologists, and provides ongoing counseling and emergency services to students. The Cougar Health Services provide assistance to students through the Behavioral Health unit, which is staffed by clinical graduate students, physicians, and a psychiatrist. Additional clinical externship opportunities are available to more advanced graduate students (e.g., Palouse Psychiatry and Behavioral Health; Marimn Health Center). Providing clinical doctoral students with all of these opportunities ensures that by the time they apply for internship in the final year of the program, each student has attained the requisite level of competency.

STUDENT SELECTION

The Clinical Psychology Graduate Program enrolls 6 to 8 students each year from approximately 180 applications. In choosing students for admission, we look for individuals whose interests match our training objectives and whose research interests match those of our faculty. The Clinical Psychology Graduate Program utilizes a mentorship model in the selection and training of students. The degree of fit between the applicant’s research interests and the research interests of their potential faculty mentor is an important consideration in admissions. Therefore, it is to your advantage to articulate clearly how your research interests coincide with the research interests of your potential mentor. The Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data Section provides more specific information on the characteristics of students admitted to the program and their progress through the program.

STUDENT SUPPORT

All of our clinical graduate students are fully funded during their first year of study. This funding includes a tuition waiver; partial fee waiver; a half-time assistantship for the academic (9-month) year, which provides a monthly salary in exchange for 20 hours of work per week within the department, under the supervision of a faculty member, or in an instructional capacity; and basic health insurance for a 12-month period. In subsequent years, full support is provided contingent upon sufficient progress toward completion of the degree as judged by the Clinical faculty and continued availability of funding to the department. It is the policy of the department to attempt to provide complete support to students who are in good standing for four years of study. Graduate students in the department may be eligible for additional summer support as, for example, a summer session instructor or research assistant.

The clinical program also awards two fellowships to incoming graduate students, to supplement the assistantship stipend:

The Laura Asbell Graduate Fellowship, awarded to one incoming student, provides $2500 in summer funding for each of the first four years of training. The guidelines for awarding the fellowship state: “Recipients are to be chosen on the basis of commitment to the profession and to serving others, and not simply on the basis of scholarship achievement. Financial need should also be a consideration. Recipients are encouraged to return the benefit they receive through this scholarship, once their career is established, by contributing to the fund or the psychology program to help others enter the field or to make a difference through community service or the offer of counseling to those who otherwise could not afford it.

The Alan W. London Memorial Graduate Fellowship, awarded to at least one incoming student, provides $2500 in summer funding for the first year of training. The guidelines for awarding the fellowship state a “… strong preference for mature students, those individuals who have had significant life experiences before making the commitment to be a clinical psychologist. Recipients will be chosen on the basis of their qualities of intellectual curiosity, personal integrity, and dedication to serving others. Financial need will also be an important consideration.”

Students are invited to apply for the Asbell fellowship when they are invited to campus for interview day during February.

APPLYING TO OUR CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM

The various links (e.g., Clinical Psychology Program Faculty and Interests; Clinical Curriculum; Clinical Internship Outcomes; Diversity Interests of the Clinical Faculty; Clinical Practica) should answer many of your questions about the Program. I also encourage you to contact the individual clinical faculty if you have questions about their research. Please also feel free to contact me if you have additional questions about the Clinical Psychology Program.

Note to potential applicants: A previous felony conviction could prevent obtaining the predoctoral clinical internship required for a Ph. D. in clinical psychology, as well as future licensure as a psychologist. In addition, drug screenings and a background check may be required prior to the start of clinical practicum placements.

• Seattle Pacific University
• Graduate Programs​

Doctorate (PhD) — Clinical Psychology

5–6 years to complete

$899/per credit

Full time, including two 1-year part-time practicum placements and a full-time 1-year internship

195 credits

American Psychological Association accredited

• Schedule informational appointment

Upcoming deadline: Dec. 15, 2021

Next start: Sept. 2022

Next start date: 9/11/2024

Earn your clinical psychology PhD from Seattle Pacific University

This Clinical Psychology degree program lets you benefit from an APA accredited doctoral program. What will the PhD curriculum include? You’ll examine the interplay among biological, psychological, and social factors related to human adjustment. This biopsychosocial perspective infuses all aspects of the curriculum and training experiences in the context of a Christian university.

Study under dedicated faculty, benefit from research opportunities, and learn from individual instruction.

Program distinctives

This Clinical Psychology doctoral program includes coursework grounded in empirical literature that examines the interplay among biological, psychological, and social factors related to human adjustment. This biopsychosocial perspective infuses all aspects of the doctoral curriculum and training experiences.

Additional distinctives include:

• Fully accredited by the American Psychological Association.
• A full-time, five- to six-year integrated and organized sequence of studies and practice experiences.
• Scientist-practitioner and local clinical-scientist training models featured.
• Providing a biopsychosocial perspective grounded in empirical literature that examines interplay among biological, psychological, and social factors related to human adjustment.
• Dedicated to holistic diversity, addressing individual or group differences and implications of diversity for ethical and effective practice of clinical psychology. We believe a full appreciation of diversity also includes spiritual and religious factors.
• Faculty research teams ensuring our students can participate in real-life research beginning early in their academic careers.
• Graduate faculty who invest in students’ lives with personal mentoring, research opportunities, and individual instruction.
• A master’s of science in psychological science is earned en route to the doctorate.
• Offers of admission are to the doctoral program. However, continuance in the program is formally evaluated when the M.S. in Psychological Science is earned and at the doctoral comprehensive exam. Continuance from the master’s to the doctoral program is also contingent upon viability of the program and institution at large.

Training: Scientist Practitioner and Local Clinical Scientist Model

Under the LCS model, research and practice are not separate domains. Rather, they are integrated so that practice informs research questions, and research informs the practice of clinical psychology (Stricker, 1997, 2000; Trierweiler & Stricker, 1998).

Described in "The local clinical scientist: A bridge between science and practice" ( American Psychologist, Stricker & Trierweiler, 1995) the LCS model extends the scientific and professional ideals in the original Boulder Scientist-Practitioner model of clinical psychology (Raimy, 1950).

Note: In accordance with the standards associated with the training of health services psychologists , students are evaluated comprehensively aross cognitive, emotional, psychological, interpersonal, technical, and ethical domains.

Research: Scientist Practitioner and LCS Model

Local clinical scientists think like researchers in the practice of psychology and value the use of evidence-based treatment. To this end, our doctoral students are encouraged to produce, consume, and utilize research throughout their doctoral training and into their professional practice.

Our goal is to facilitate your research skills and positive attitude toward research so that you will continue to view research as an integral part of professional psychology.

Learn about your three major research-oriented opportunities in the doctoral program:

• Research methods and statistics courses
• Research vertical teams (RVT) participation
• Preparation and defense of a doctoral dissertation

Degree completion

Our program offers a five- or six-year program plan option. You must complete all requirements for the doctoral degree within seven years from the quarter your first post-admission course was taken. Students who need more than seven years to complete the degree must file a time-extension petition with the director of doctoral studies.

​Lynette Bikos

Associate Dean of Research, School of Psychology, Family, and Community; Chair and Professor of Clinical Psychology PhD, University of Kansas-Lawrence

Thane​ Erickson

Professor of Clinical Psychology; Director of CPY Internship PhD, Pennsylvania State University

Jessica Fossum

Assistant Professor of Psychology; Director of Research-Graduate Psychology PhD, University of California-Los Angeles

Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology; Director of CPY Research PhD, University of Southern Mississippi

Jessie Todd

Clinical Psychology Program Manager

Professor of Clinical Psychology PhD, Columbia University

Jenny​ Lee Vaydich​

Associate Professor of Psychology​; Chair of Research Psychology PhD, University of Notre Dame

The Clinical Psychology doctoral program encompasses broad scientific concepts while integrating the skills of clinical practice. It also includes the core competencies   outlined by the National Council of Schools and Program of Professional Psychology  (NCSPP).

The  clinical training sequence  requires students to complete two years of practicum and one year of internship, and to attend quarterly clinical supervision and consultation groups. These requirements are described below.

Clinical Supervision and Consultation Groups

Clinical Supervision and Consultation Groups (CSCGs) are opportunities for small groups of students to consult with faculty members regarding applied clinical questions.

You are required to attend nine CSCGs during each year of your practicum experience, and three Grand Rounds during each year of your practicum experience, and to be prepared to present one or more cases from your practicum position. CPY Grand Rounds are held at the end of each academic quarter. All CPY students and faculty meet together for a panel of three formal case presentations and discussion.

Each CSCG will be organized around a particular clinical theme or method, and will frequently center on issues of professional development, ethics, and legal standards of practice.

Consultations are aimed at helping practicum students with case conceptualization and the learning of new clinical methodology, and to assist with better enacting a local clinical scientist model of practice. The CSCG does not serve as a substitute for, extension of, or replacement for, onsite individual and group supervision provided by practicum site supervisors.

Practicum training involves 16–20 hours per week of experience in clinical settings throughout the Puget Sound region. SPU works with a variety of sites, including medical centers, community mental health clinics, correctional facilities, and university counseling centers. You may apply to sites based on your clinical interests.

Clinical Psychology practicum definitions

• Clinical skill set.  Practicum involves the acquisition of a clinical skill set through supervised clinical practice.
• Varied experiences.  Practicum usually includes experiences in psychological assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, and treatment evaluation.
• Professional skills development.  Practicum may also include program development, third-party consultation, and other professional skills.
• Approved supervisors.  Practicum falls within the curriculum of the doctoral program; clinical supervisors must be approved by the director of clinical placement and a formal practicum agreement must be arranged with the training site.
• Evaluations.  Practicum students and their supervisors must provide written quarterly evaluations to the director of clinical training.
• Supervisory responsibility.  Practicum supervisors maintain full clinical responsibility for all patients (clients) seen by students.

Practicum training competencies

Each student is evaluated on the following competency objectives, which appear on the Quarterly Practicum Student Evaluation form. Each quarter, students meet with clinical supervisor(s) to review each of these competencies.

Our program works to train students to develop the following competencies:

• Application of evidence-based assessment  and intervention skills through client and patient-care experiences at clinical practicum sites.
• Establishment of therapeutic relationships  with clients and patients.
• Diagnostic interviewing skills  and accurate diagnosing skills using The American Psychiatric Association’s (2022)  Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders  (5th ed., text revision; DSM-V-TR).
• Selection, administration, scoring, and interpretation  of psychological and neuropsychological assessment instruments.
• Effective report-writing skills.
• Evidence-based psychotherapy skills  — the ability to conceptualize clinical cases from a local clinical scientist model.
• Case formulation skills  from a therapeutic orientation(s), using an integrative view.
• Skills in formulating interventions  based upon diagnosis and case formulation.
• Skills in learning cultural competencies  through our students’ practicum clinical experiences.
• The application of ethical principles  and code of conduct guidelines to client and patient care practicum experiences.
• Timely and effective case management  in clinical practicum experiences.

In the doctoral program you are required to complete a 12-month predoctoral psychology internship that is approved by the American Psychological Association. Each internship training site will have its own set of training expectations and objectives.

You will typically obtain internship training in medical centers or mental health settings. You are encouraged to apply to both regional and national training sites based on your clinical interests and professional goals.

The predoctoral clinical psychology internship application process at SPU follows the policies and procedures of the  Association of Psychology Post-Doctoral and Internship Centers  (APPIC). You are expected to seek an APA-accredited internship through the APPIC matching process.

Research plays a significant role in the development of doctoral psychologists. In the Clinical Psychology doctoral program, you will have three major research-oriented opportunities.

Research methods and statistics

The Clinical Psychology doctoral program requires all students to take a rigorous, comprehensive course sequence in statistics and psychometric theory. This sequence begins with basic statistical and data analysis skills, and progresses to more complex modeling.

• CPY 7031 “Quantitative Methods in Research I: Introduction to Inferential Statistics & Analysis of Variance”
• CPY 7032 “Quantitative Methods in Research II: Correlation & Regression”
• CPY 7010 “Quantitative Methods in Research III: Psychometrics/Theory of Test Construction”
• CPY 7033 “Quantitave Methods in Research IV: Multivariate Modeling”
• CPY 7020 “Research Design & Methodology”

Mentored Research Project

Beginning the first quarter of enrollment, students and one or more peers will begin the mentored research project (MRP). This two-year project is usually completed within RVTs. It provides the opportunity to gain start-to-finish experience with research: seeking IRB approval, writing a research proposal, pre-registering your hypotheses, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, and disseminating finds to lay and scientific audiences.

Research Vertical Teams (RVTs)

All SPU Clinical Psychology doctoral students participate in research vertical teams (RVT), which are ongoing programs of research. RVTs are led by core faculty members and include students from all years.

You will meet with your RVT weekly or biweekly to work with your faculty advisor on your program of research. You will be involved in theory development, “operationalization,” data collection, analysis, and/or write-ups of empirical research for presentation at professional conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

As an advanced student, you will get to the point where you independently direct an aspect of your faculty advisor’s research, while training or mentoring newer members of the RVT.

Dissertation preparation and defense

The dissertation demonstrates that you have developed subject matter expertise in an area of research in the field of psychology. The dissertation is expected to make an independent contribution to the field, evaluate an old problem in a new way, or identify a new problem or area of concern in the field.

The dissertation is a learning process, a major component in doctoral training, and an important demonstration of independent and creative thinking. The dissertation from start to finish is your project, and at the end of the process you will have become an independent contributor to the advancement of the field of clinical psychology.

Three primary stages of the dissertation

• You will choose your dissertation committee.  Throughout the program sequence, you will enroll in dissertation credits and work in a mentoring relationship with your dissertation committees to prepare your dissertation.
• You will prepare a research proposal  that includes both the theoretical framework for your proposed study and the proposed research methodology. Following the proposal, you must obtain  Institutional Review Board  approval to begin data collection.
• Once data has been collected , you will prepare for your final defense by analyzing your data, writing your results section, and preparing a comprehensive discussion of those results.

Your dissertation committee must approve your work at the proposal and at the final defense.

2023–24 tuition and fees

application fee; one-time matriculation fee

to complete

In addition to direct instructional costs, Seattle Pacific University’s Clinical Psychology tuition covers academic and student support services. Other benefits include use of athletic facilities (e.g., gym, locker room, and fitness rooms), software downloads such as AMOS and SPSS, and the SPU Library which provides a number of journal articles and e-texts for select classes.

Scholarships and financial aid

Scholarship and other financial aid is available to newly admitted and continuing students in the School of Psychology, Family, and Community. For more information, visit Graduate Students Resources in Student Financial Services.

Resources available to graduate students to offset costs may include:

• Student loans. Includes amounts that exceed tuition and provide for living expenses.
• Graduate research assistantships. Department and grant-funded research and administrative assistant positions are offered to a limited number of graduate students each year. Selection is based on established criteria within each graduate department.
• Graduate teaching assistantships. Department-funded teaching assistantships are offered to a limited number of graduate students each year. Selection is based on established criteria and course need within each graduate department.
• Merit scholarships. Offered by the University as an offset to tuition.
• Department scholarship and awards. Selection is based on established criteria within each department.

Student employment

For part-time student employment opportunities on or off campus, explore these options:

• Student Employment website
• Falcon Connect

Application

Applying to the clinical psychology program.

To be considered for admission into the Clinic Psychology program, you must  apply online . Find the help you need with the admissions process of the program of your choice through  Graduate Admissions . 

If you are an international student, also refer to  International Graduate Students information  about additional admission requirements. 

Learn about the School of Psychology, Family, and Community’s religious hiring compliance  with the American Psychological Association.

Admission process

This program begins in Autumn Quarter and admits students once a year, with about 15 percent of those who apply offered admission annually.

• Application deadline: December 15.
• Preliminary screening: The admissions committee of the Department of Clinical Psychology will conduct a preliminary screening process of all applications.
• Personal interviews: Finalists will be invited to visit campus for personal interviews in late February or early March.
• Program section: Admission to the doctoral program depends upon recommendation by the CPY faculty and approval from the department chair.

This program begins in Autumn Quarter and admits students once a year, offering admission to about 15 percent of those who apply.

• Application deadline: January 8.
• Preliminary screening: The faculty in the Department of Clinical Psychology conduct a preliminary screening process of all applications.
• Personal interviews: Finalists will be invited to a virtual Interview Day for roundtable discussion, personal interviews, and panel discussions with students and faculty in the Department of Clinical Psychology faculty.
• Program section: Consistent with our mentor match model, admission to the doctoral program depends upon academic skills, clinical and research interests and experiences, and congruence of research and clinical interests and experiences with faculty (and their RVTs).

Admission requirements

In additional to fulfilling general SPU graduate admission requirements, you must provide these items specific to admission to Clinical Psychology doctoral studies:

• Online application and $75 processing fee
• From a regionally accredited institution, with a minimum 3.0 grade-point average.
• All applicants should have successfully completed a statistics or tests-and-measurements course, as well as five additional psychology courses. Examples include: abnormal, developmental, experimental, physiological, social, learning, motivation, and personality.
• Official transcript(s) from any college or university that granted you a degree or degrees, and from any institution attended since that time.
• Submission of GRE scores are optional. We consider applications holistically, weighing academic preparedness, interpersonal skills, and research skills. If submitted, GRE scores will be considered as an additional item to all other application materials.
• Three academic references from current or former professors/instructors are preferred, however for one academic reference you may substitute a professional reference from a person in a related field (e.g., clinical supervisor).
• Although a standard reference form is provided in the online application , we prefer that reference letters be individually written on academic or organizational letterhead
• Three–four pages in length, typed.
• Address your career objectives, rationale for seeking a degree in clinical psychology, and why you choose to attend SPU.
• Mention professional and personal strengths as they apply to clinical psychology, related work experiences, research interests, personal values, religious ideals, and other information you deem appropriate.
• Preference is shown to applicants who possess potential for both clinical and scientific work, as demonstrated by prior research, work, and/or volunteer experiences.

Transfer of credit

If you have a master’s degree, or have taken other graduate coursework in psychology at a regionally accredited institution, you may be allowed to transfer up to 20 quarter units.

Courses eligible for transfer must have been passed at a grade of “B” or higher and completed within seven years prior to admission to the program. A petition to transfer credits is submitted only after formal admission to the program and will require transcripts and syllabi of any courses for which you request transfer of credit. Those who have received an offer of admission may work with the assigned faculty advisor for a preliminary review of courses eligible for transfer. The formal transfer can occur only after the student is formally enrolled.

You must complete all requirements for the doctoral degree within seven years from the quarter your first post-admission course was taken. Students who need more than seven years to complete the degree must file a time-extension petition.

International students

In addition to the SPU general and the Clinical Psychology program’s additional admission requirements, international students must also submit:

• An official confidential affidavit of financial support covering the first year of intended enrollment. Without this document, SPU cannot issue an I-20 immigration form.
• Students holding undergraduate or graduate degrees from colleges, universities, and/or seminaries located outside the U.S. are expected to have their transcripts evaluated by a professional credential agency. Such an evaluation is required before an application for admission to SPFC can be granted and before any graduate credits taken elsewhere can be applied to a SPFC degree.
• If you earned an undergraduate degree in a country other than the United States, or your degree is in progress, an official course-by-course credential evaluation must be submitted from a  NACES member-recognized credential service. Acceptable credential services include, but are not limited to,  World Education Services (WES) and  Foundation for International Services (FIS).
• In addition to the evaluation report, we also require official transcripts and diplomas to be submitted, in English. International applicants are responsible for all costs associated with this service.
• English language proficiency: If you do not speak English as your first language, you must also submit scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 600 on the TOEFL paper or 250 on the TOEFL-CBT, or 100 on the TOEFL-iBT is required. ACE scores will not be accepted.

Career opportunities

What can you do with your PhD in Clinical Psychology? Because research and clinical practice are balanced in the curriculum at Seattle Pacific University, our graduates function in various roles after graduation, including: 

• Health care clinicians
• University scholars
• Post-doctoral fellows
• Psychologists
• Behavioral medicine specialists
• Neuropsychologists
• Research professors
• Pediatric psychologists
• Research scientists

Outcome examples: 

• 125 to Watch: Sarah Welton PhD ’12
• The art of mending lives , Stacy Cecchet PhD ’12
• Finding strength in pain

Supporting the careers of our CPY students and alumni is a high priority for the School of Psychology, Family, and Community. The following career resources are available:

• The Center for Career and Calling has Resources for Current Graduate Students , which offers online vocational resources and résumé tips, workshops, and events. 
• Job leads through SPU’s job posting board Handshake and Falcon Connect , the online community where you can engage and connect with the SPU network.

Student admissions, outcomes, other data

Student admissions, outcomes, and other data.

View the program data here (PDF).

Religious Affiliation

Religious affiliation and apa accreditation, request more info.

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Department of Psychology

Understand brain science and behavior. Use your insights to improve lives.

In the Department of Psychology, you’ll explore the fundamental principles of human behavior and learn how to apply that knowledge to positively impact individuals and their communities. The department offers both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees to meet a wide range of student interests. In addition to traditional doctoral education, our graduate program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to effectively address society’s pressing challenges. Our faculty research, which receives more than $12 million annually in grants and contracts, applies our understanding of brain science to enhance social equality, optimize human potential, and strengthen society.

Undergraduate Programs

• B.A., Psychology
• B.S., Psychology

Graduate Programs

• M.A., Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment
• Ph.D., Psychology Animal Behavior; Behavioral Neuroscience; Clinical Psychology; Child Clinical Psychology; Cognition and Perception; Developmental; Social and Personality; Quantitative Psychology
• Ph.D., Psychology: Advanced Data Science Option
• Ph.D., Psychology: Clinical Psychology
• Ph.D., Psychology: Data Science Option

Psychology studies the broad spectrum of behavior, and the career paths it opens up are equally broad. Students who pursue a bachelor of science or graduate study are equipped to succeed in scientific and research-based roles. Students who receive a Bachelor of Arts use their knowledge of human and animal behavior in more general roles. Regardless of which track you follow, the analytical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills developed through the study of psychology will position you for success in many fields, including education, business, government, healthcare and the nonprofit sector.   

Career Paths

Psychology majors pursue a wide range of careers, including: 

• Psychologist
• Philanthropy officer
• Animal behaviorist
• Social worker 
• Human resources manager
• Marketing specialist

Impacting our community, with national recognition

The Department of Psychology is committed to translating its research discoveries into actions that positively impact our communities. Examples include:

• Partnering on PTSD therapies with the Veterans Administration and local refugee communities
• Collaborating with local service organizations
• Providing mindfulness and parenting workshops at our Center for Child and Family Well-Being .

Through the department’s Clinical Psychology Graduate Training Program, consistently ranked among the top 10 programs nationally by U.S. News & World Report, graduate student therapists provide services to Seattle area residents under the supervision of licensed psychologists.

More About Our Community Outreach

Find Yourself in Psychology

Use your knowledge of behavior to address mental health disparities, promote social equality and optimize human potential.   

Follow the Department

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Lisa Dabek (PhD, Psychology, 1994), senior conservation scientist at the Woodland Park Zoo, studies and protects tree kangaroos in the cloud forests of Papua New Guinea. 

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Jeff Lin (2012), obsessed with video games as a child, now leads teams of game developers at Horizon Metaverse — with the help of his UW PhD in psychology.

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• PsyD vs PhD

Washington State Psychology Doctorate Programs

Below is important information to know if you want to earn a PsyD degree in Washington state. You will learn about the schools where you can earn this respected degree, as well as how to earn your license once you have completed your education.

What’s On This Page

• Quick Facts
• Washington PsyD Programs
• Other Washington Doctorate Programs
• Washington Psychologist Requirements
• Washington Doctorate Salary Outlook

Quick Facts:

• There are 15 schools located in the state of Washington that offer some form of an advanced degree program in the field of psychology.
• The university with the highest net price in the state is the University of Puget Sound at $40,416. The lowest net price belongs to the University of Washington-Tacoma at $8,539.
• The University of Puget Sound ranked on the Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Psychology Majors for 2018.
• The University of Washington psychology department is its largest department and has faculty that are known for being recognized as pioneers in the field of psychology.
• Both Western Washington University and the University of Washington were ranked in Kiplinger’s Best Values in Public Colleges in 2017

List of PsyD Degree Programs in Washington

The PsyD degree is a newer doctoral degree in the field of psychology. The focus of this doctoral degree is more on clinical psychology practice, while the Ph.D. is more centered on academia and research. The schools that offer PsyD programs in Washington are listed below, as well as programs that offer a Ph.D.

SEE ALSO:   5+ Best Online Clinical Psychology PsyD Programs

Antioch University – Seattle

The PsyD program at Antioch University Seattle provides high-quality doctoral education and training in clinical psychology so you are ready to practice in professional and health service psychology. You will be part of a small team of classmates in a positive learning environment that encourages collaboration and teamwork. Students are offered ample opportunities to develop their applied research, clinical, and assessment skills. There is an emphasis on social justice and multicultural competency. The program may be complete in five years on a full-time basis and is fully accredited by the APA.

• Institution type: Public
• Main campus: Seattle
• Annual tuition: $125,440
• Degrees offered:  PsyD in Clinical Psychology
• Accreditation: APA
• Visit School: Click here

Other Psychology Doctorates in Washington State

While many students obtain a PsyD in psychology, another option is to earn your Ph.D. in psychology with a grounding in psychological research. The universities below offer excellent Ph.D. in psychology programs in Washington state.

The University of Washington

The University of Washington offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that is built to achieve integration of scientific, academic, and professional training. The program is fully accredited by the APA and is a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science. In the five-year, full-time program, students will develop a broad foundation and understanding of clinical psychology. The program is known to develop creative and competent clinical scientists who can function well in research, academic, clinical, community, and global dissemination environments. Students receive superior clinical training because the staff believes that excellent clinical researchers must be excellent clinicians, as well.

• Annual tuition: $16,590 in-state, $29,652 out-of-state
• Degrees offered:  PhD in Clinical Psychology

Washington State University

Washington State University offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that integrates research, theory, and clinical practice in the training of doctoral students, of which there are currently 39 in the program. Each student is heavily involved in research every semester, and in clinical practica starting in the third semester until the 12-month internship begins. The goal of this APA-accredited program is to train competent and compassionate clinical psychologists, will obtain APA-accredited internships, and will make strong contributions to the clinical psychology field. Specialties offered include Clinical Helth and Primary Care Psychology, Neuropsychology, Adult Psychopathology, Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, Diversity, and Quantitative Methods in Psychology.

• Main campus: Pullman
• Annual tuition: $6,025 per semester in-state, $12,903 out-of-state
• Degrees offered: PhD in Clinical Psychology

Seattle Pacific University

Seattle Pacific University offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that features courses grounded in empirical literature that study the interplay of psychological, biological, and social factors as they relate to human behavior. It is a five-year, full-time doctoral program with 195 credit hours that is accredited by the American Psychological Association. It provides each student with a unique biopsychosocial perspective that will assist them in working with patients in the future. It is a program dedicated to holistic diversity as it addresses both group and individual differences, as well as the implications of diversity for the effective and ethical practice of psychology.

• Annual tuition: $851 per credit hour

How to Become a Practicing Clinical Psychologist in Washington

To obtain your license to practice in the state of Washington, the first step in the process is to acheive your educational goals. You will want to start with a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. This portion will most likely take you four years to complete the 120 credit hours needed to achieve the degree if attending full-time.

Once you have completed your bachelor’s degree, you may consider achieving your master’s degree before applying for your doctorate program. It can slightly increase your chances of acceptance, and if not completed beforehand, it will be included in your doctorate program. Most programs take one to two years to complete.

You will also have to secure a PsyD or Ph.D. in psychology from an accredited college or university. Your doctorate program will typically take between four and seven years to complete depending on whether or, not you have secured your master’s before starting. Each program will have a different number of credit hours required.

Once you have successfully completed your degree program, there are a few more steps to complete to achieve your license.

• To get your license from the state, you will need to complete at least two years or 3,900 hours of supervised experience. These hours will need to include time working with patients as well as administrative tasks that are related to clinical work. You will have to complete at least 300 hours during your doctoral program and 1,500 from your pre-doctoral internship. The balance of the hours should come from additional practicum hours.
• After completing your hours, it is time to submit your application for review by the Board. For the state of Washington, you will need to complete both an  online component  and a  Licensure by Examination Application Packet . These should be accompanied by a $206 application fee. Your application can also be submitted through the  Psychology Licensure Universal System  though it requires a $200 fee in addition to the application fee.
• The final step to qualify to receive your license is completing and passing the Washington psychology licensing exams. The first exam is the  Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology  which is a national multiple choice exam that costs $687.50 to take and requires a score of 500 or more to pass. After successful completion of the EPPP, you will need to take Washington’s jurisprudence exam , which is a 25 question test on the laws and regulations of practicing psychology in the state. You will complete the test online. It is open book and requires a score of 90% to pass.

Washington’s Clinical Psychologist Salary and Job Outlook

The average salary for a practicing clinical psychologist in the state of Washington is $86,830 placing it well above the national average listed by the Bureau of Labors Statistics of  $77,000 . While the salary outlook for psychologists in the state is good, so is its continued future.

SEE ALSO:  Washington Clinical Psychologist Salary Outlook

The number of jobs for qualified psychologists is expected to increase over 15% in the next ten years with counseling and school psychologist seeing almost a 20% jump.

Psychology Graduate Programs in Washington

1-6 of 6 results

College of Arts and Sciences - Washington State University

Pullman, WA •

Washington State University •

Graduate School

Washington State University ,

Graduate School ,

PULLMAN, WA ,

Seattle University College of Arts and Sciences

Seattle, WA •

Seattle University •

• • Rating 2 out of 5   2 reviews

Blue checkmark.

Seattle University ,

SEATTLE, WA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 2 stars.

Read 2 reviews.

School of Psychology, Family, and Community - Seattle Pacific University

Seattle Pacific University •

Seattle Pacific University ,

Walla Walla University

Graduate School •

COLLEGE PLACE, WA

• • Rating 4.36 out of 5   14

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

INDIANA, PA

• • Rating 4.32 out of 5   56

School of Health Sciences - Russell Sage College

Russell Sage College •

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA •

• • Rating 4.22 out of 5   23 reviews

Alum: I graduated from Western Washington University in 2018 with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science with an interdisciplinary approach to wildlife ecology. I developed survey experience, strong interpersonal communication skills, and enthusiasm for fieldwork to be a successful biological technician. The downside was that this essential career experience was only nurtured during the final year of classes, and there was no support for bachelor's students eager to publish in scientific journals or early career advice. ... Read 23 reviews

BELLINGHAM, WA ,

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

Featured Review: Alum says I graduated from Western Washington University in 2018 with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science with an interdisciplinary approach to wildlife ecology. I developed survey experience, strong... .

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Eastern Washington University College of Social Sciences

Cheney, WA •

Eastern Washington University •

Eastern Washington University ,

CHENEY, WA ,

Antioch University Seattle

• • Rating 4.28 out of 5   18 reviews

Master's Student: The best part of my experience so far has been the immense personal growth I’ve experienced since beginning my enrollment. I particularly noticed this when I took Alisha Guthery’s Somatic Therapy course. The worst part of my experience has been navigating the internship application process. I spent about a year paralyzed by not knowing how to navigate this with my particular neurospicy brain. ... Read 18 reviews

18 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of my experience so far has been the immense personal growth I’ve experienced since beginning my enrollment. I particularly noticed this when I took Alisha Guthery’s Somatic Therapy... .

Read 18 reviews.

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San Francisco State University

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

• • Rating 4.19 out of 5   52

Russell Sage College

• • Rating 4.28 out of 5   25

Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences

University of Pittsburgh •

PITTSBURGH, PA

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Ph.D. in School Psychology

What you can earn, credits earned, time commitment, upcoming deadline, leaders of school psychology research and practice.

The School Psychology Ph.D. degree prepares leaders in the field of research and practice within school psychology. Our program stresses the expanded role of the school psychologist and offers formal coursework and practica in assessment, consultation, intervention, and counseling.

Our philosophy is grounded in the scientist-practitioner model and offers a strong background in the scientific foundations for the practice of school psychology as well as training in applying current research knowledge and theory to educational services.

The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) , approved by the  National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) , and meets requirements for state level licensure as a psychologist.

Our mission is to prepare scientist-practitioners whose practice of psychology is grounded in scientific knowledge and focused on enhancing the educational and socio-emotional competence of school-age children and youth.

The role of a health service psychologist with a specialty in school psychology is to assess, consult, and provide prevention and direct intervention services that focus on learning, behavior, and mental health. The graduate program in School Psychology at the University of Washington stresses the expanded role of the school psychologist and offers formal course work and practica in assessment, consultation, intervention, and counseling. In addition, the program philosophy is grounded in the scientist-practitioner model and offers a strong background in the scientific foundations for the practice of school psychology as well as training in applying current research knowledge and theory to educational services.

What you'll learn

The following are the nine profession-wide competencies and the specific objectives for graduates. Students' learning experiences are guided by the Discipline Specific Knowledge areas of APA and by the Profession-Wide Competencies in the APA Standards of Accreditation.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to be critical consumers of research, to have the knowledge and skills to conduct scientific inquiry, and to disseminate research.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to be competent in navigating and legal and ethical challenges and engaging in best practices associated with the APA Ethical Principles for Psychologists and Code of Conduct.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to integrate self-awareness, cultural knowledge, and culturally responsive skills in all professional activities including research, teaching, and clinical service.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to reflect the values and attitudes of psychology through integrity, professional identity alignment, professional behavior, and responsiveness to supervision and feedback.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to maintain effective relationships with colleagues, communities, organizations, supervisors, supervisees, and clients.

Program Objective: to prepare health service psychologists to incorporate the diversity characteristics of clients in psychological assessments and to present findings in an effective manner that is appropriate for audiences outside the discipline of psychology.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to implement evidence-based interventions with fidelity to empirical models along with the flexibility to adapt the interventions to the cultural and linguistic context of the clients.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to provide effective supervised supervision to less advanced students and peers appropriate for the service setting.

Program Objective: To prepare health service psychologists to demonstrate the ability to effectively collaborate in interdisciplinary contexts and integrated healthcare settings.

After graduation

Graduates are prepared for college teaching, clinical, and research positions in a variety of settings:

• School settings to serve students from all cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds
• University settings as trainers of school psychologists and continue to generate new knowledge for the practice of psychology
• Research settings where investigations are conducted related to learning, development, and behavior of school-aged children
• Teaching hospitals and other health agencies providing outpatient services for patients with school-related problems

Let's connect

We're excited that you're interested in our program! By joining our mailing list, you can receive updates on info sessions, deadlines, financial aid and more!

Connect with us

Related programs

The first three years of this Ph.D. program follow the sequence of the Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) program . The final three years of the Ph.D. program build upon and extend the training.

School Psychology Clinic

The UW School Psychology Clinic serves as a training site for graduate students in the School Psychology Ed.S. and Ph.D. programs. All services are supervised by a licensed psychologist/clinician, along with a program faculty member. The center also services as a clinical-research site for faculty and students.

The Ph.D. degree is a six-year, full-time program that requires three years of Ed.S. degree coursework, two years of Ph.D. coursework and one year of a predoctoral internship. If you already have an Ed.S. degree, the Ph.D. course of study can be shortened to three or more years.

With the support of your advisor, you will design an individualized program of study that is guided by a supervisory committee and chaired by a core school psychology faculty member.

Students who complete their Ed.S. degree at UW will use that coursework as their specialty area. Students who completed their Ed.S. at another institution will have their transcripts reviewed to determine course credits that may be applied to their Ph.D. program of study.

As doctoral students are completing the individualized program of study requirements, they must also complete the Ph.D. degree milestones (research and inquiry, general exam, dissertation proposal, dissertation defense). These procedures are described in the program handbook sections under “Ph.D. degree milestones.”

For details,  download the student handbook

The first three years of the Ph.D. degree follow the course sequence of our Ed.S. degree . The Ed.S. course sequence is organized so that all basic foundation courses are completed the first year, the second year is centered on applied experiences in schools and at the University of Washington, and the third year is a full-time, school-based internship in public schools. Students who have already earned their Ed.S. degree may begin the Ph.D. coursework immediately.

Autumn quarter

• EDPSY 565: Adv Practicum in Clinical Practice (4)
• EDPSY 508: Adv Practicum- Supervision & School Mental Health (2)
• EDLPS 525: Educational Inquiry (3)
• EDPSY 529: Developmental Psychopathology and the DSM (3)
• Additional cognate courses (including research methods courses)

Winter quarter

• EDLPS 526: Educational Inquiry (3)
• EDPSY 538: Multiple Regression (3)
• Additional cognate and research methods courses
• Prospective Candidacy

Spring quarter

• EDPSY 585: History, Systems, & Contemporary Issues in School Psychology (3)
• Research and Inquiry

Summer quarter (session A)

EDPSY 581: Seminar in APPIC/CDSPP internships (2)

• EDPSY 579: Advanced Practicum in Assessment and Intervention (3)
• R & I presentation (Nov)
• General Exam (Nov or Dec)
• If not doing APPIC, start working on creating a local CDSPP-aligned Internship
• Register only if completing the general exam this quarter
• To obtain an add code for dissertation credits, go to  education.uw.edu/practicum , select your advisor, EDUC 800 course, and describe your dissertation project.
• General Exam (if not completed in Autumn)
• Dissertation Proposal (or in Spring)
• Internship interviews and APPIC Match Day
• Register for 25 dissertation credits (total) by the end of the academic year. Leave 2 credits for the following year when you defend your dissertation (final orals).
• Dissertation Proposal (if not completed in Winter)
• EDUC 800: Dissertation (8-10)

Students apply for “on leave” status EVERY quarter except the quarter of the dissertation defense. If a student does not apply each quarter, they will drop from the University system and have to reapply for active status and pay a $250 fee to the Graduate School. During the quarter of the dissertation defense, students MUST register for the remaining 2 credits.

Each doctoral student is required to identify two supportive cognate fields in addition to the area of specialization. Depending upon your academic background, the range of credits required for each supportive cognate is between 6 and 15. The breadth and depth of each cognate is normally defined by the graduate advisor and the faculty member selected to represent the cognate area.

Each student must form a specialization from a unit outside of the College of Education.  The specialization outside the College will normally be in a single department (e.g., Social Work, Public Health). In exceptional cases, it may be a series of courses from different departments containing a common thread (e.g., Ethnic Studies, which may draw upon courses based in several departments). The breadth and depth of the specialization outside the College is normally defined by the graduate faculty representative from that specialization serving on your Supervisory Committee. 

The culminating experience for the Ph.D. degree is a predoctoral internship, which includes advanced, integrative, supervised experiences in applying science to practice. The predoctoral internship must be completed after the general exam is passed and the dissertation proposal has been approved.

The predoctoral internship requires an additional 1,500 hours of experience and can be completed in a school or non-school setting. Students are strongly encouraged to apply to APA-accredited predoctoral internship programs through the Association of Postdoctoral Psychology and Internship Centers (APPIC) Match process. Those who do not have the ability to complete APA accredited internships must complete local predoctoral internships that are CDSPP compliant.

Students take a required 27 dissertation credits after passing the oral general examination, complete an approved dissertation proposal prior to predoctoral internship,  and complete the dissertation either before or during the predoctoral internship.

Admission requirements and process

Preferential consideration is given to applicants who have had employment or volunteer experiences in P-12 schools and who also have research training and experience.

We accept applications once a year, for autumn quarter admission.  You must apply to the Graduate School by December 1 . Faculty reviews commence in January and continue until all vacancies are filled.

We are committed to recognizing and fostering the values derived from a diverse student population and are striving to promote increased diversity among practicing school psychologists. Toward this end, we apply a variety of criteria when evaluating applicants. We strongly encourage racially and ethnically diverse students to apply to this program.

A bachelor’s degree is required for applicants who will complete their Ed.S. degree coursework first. A degree may be in-progress when applying but it must be completed before the Program starts.

Applicants may apply to begin the Ph.D. coursework under ONE the following conditions:

• They are enrolled in the UW Ed.S. degree in School Psychology Program and have completed at least two years of coursework,
• They have completed their school psychologist certification, or
• They have earned a master’s degree or Ed.S. in school psychology.
• Include one transcript from each institution from which you've earned a degree and one from every institution you have attended in the previous 5 years.
• Your transcripts must include your name, coursework, and degree (if completed).
• If you are offered admission, the UW Graduate School will request an official transcript from your most recent degree earned.

The UW Graduate School requires a cumulative GPA of 3.0. However, we review your application holistically. If your GPA is below 3.0, contact us at [email protected] for advice on how to strengthen your overall application.

During the online application process, you will be given instructions for adding your recommenders and getting their letters submitted electronically. Your recommenders should be able to address:

• your communication skills, both written and oral
• your ability to interact productively with supervisors, peers, and children
• your ability to function without supervision
• your research competence and experience
• your teaching, counseling and/or assessment skills 
• other relevant aspects of your academic or professional development

A current academic and professional resume or vita is required. In addition to educational degrees and professional experience, you should include a list of all relevant awards, publications, presentations or other achievements that will help us to evaluate your application.

The admissions committee uses your statement of purpose, along with other evidence, to determine whether your goals are well-matched with our Program. Your statement should address goals, relevant experience, future plans, and how the desired specific program meets your needs. Include personal experiences that have prepared you for the challenge of graduate school, topics like:

• Reasons for seeking entry into this program 
• Post-baccalaureate experiences in teaching, counseling, and assessment  
• Your professional aspirations
• Your research interests

Your statement must be no more than 750 words (3 pages double-spaced) using 12-point font and 1-inch margins.

While optional, you can add to your application by submitting a personal history statement with each application. This statement should address your intellectual growth and development, inclusive of and beyond your academic goals. 

Statements should be no longer than two pages long, double-spaced, with 12-point font and 1-inch margins.

• Gather all required documents
• Visit the Graduate School website
• Log into your account or create a new profile if you are a first-time applicant
• Complete all steps in application process and upload your documents
• You may request a fee waiver during the application process
• Submit your application

Here is our general timeline for decisions.

Step 1: Application processing

• Within 7 business days after the deadline, we will check if your application if fully complete
• We will email you whether your application is complete or incomplete
• If your application is missing anything, you will have a short amount of time submit these items
• You can also log into the online tool and check your status and see any missing items

Step 2: Application review

• Committees begin reviewing applications about two weeks after the deadline
• You will receiving an email when your application has entered the review phase

Step 3: Interview day

We host an interview day during the first or second week of February for finalists who remain competitive after the primary and secondary review of their application. For those who are unable to attend this event, a web based or phone interview with one or more members of the core faculty in school psychology is required. Interviews are only by invitation.

Step 4: Decision notification

• The final decision will be emailed to you
• Your status will also be updated in the online application tool

We value and welcoming applications from international students! If you are applying from outside the United States, there are additional requirements and application materials.

• At minimum, you must have the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree (a four-year degree from an institution of recognized standing)
• The national system of education in the foreign country
• The type of institution
• The field of study and level of studies completed
• International transcripts must be submitted in the original language.
• Your transcript should include date of graduation and title of the awarded academic degree
• If your transcript is not in English, you must also provide a certified English translation
• You do not need to have your transcript evaluated for the degree by an agency

Per  UW Graduate School policy , you must submit a demonstration of English language proficiency if your native language is not English and you did not earn a degree in one of the following countries:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Trinidad and Tobago

The following tests are accepted if the test was taken fewer than two years ago:

• Minimum score: 80
• Recommended score: 92+
• The UW's 4-digit code is 4854
• University of Washington All Campuses, Organisation ID 365, Undergrad & Graduate Admis, Box 355850, Seattle, WA, 98105, United States of America
• Minimum score: 6.5
• Recommended score: 7.0+
• School information for submission: University of Washington, All Campuses Undergraduate & Graduate Admission Box 355850 Seattle, WA 98195
• Minimum score: 105
• Recommended score: 120+
• Follow the instructions on the Duolingo website to submit your scores

If apply and are offered admission to UW, you will need to submit a statement of financial ability.

Costs and funding

We are a tuition-based program. Estimated tuition rates are based on your residency: 

• Washington state residents: $19,584 per year
• Out-of-state students: $35,352 per year

Estimates are subject to change and may differ due to course load and summer quarter enrollment. Estimates include building fees, technology fees, U-Pass, etc. Additional program-specific fees are not included in this estimate.

View the UW tuition dashboard → Visit the Office of Planning & Budgeting →

Graduate Student General Scholarships

Disclosure, outcomes and other data.

We post Program data, including students’ time to completion, program costs, internship placement, attrition, licensure, and other disclosures.

View outcome data

Program Director

Kristen Missall

Program faculty.

Janine Jones

Alexa Matlack

James Mazza

Program staff.

Jen Haveman

Psychology Department

Graduate Study

Students are welcome to speak with a Psychology Department advisor concerning graduate study in psychology. Advisors can recommend courses to take at WWU and suggest experiences specific to the students' interests. The ideal time for this conversation is during the second year or beginning of the third year of college.

To learn about schools that offer graduate psychology programs, admission requirements, and how to apply, please consult Graduate Study in Psychology , an excellent book published by the American Psychological Association. It contains a description of each master's and doctorate graduate program in the United States as well as admissions information. A copy of this book is available in the Psychology Graduate Office, Academic Instruction Center 453. 

Our resources page provides information about applying to graduate school as well as recommendations on courses and activities undergraduate students should consider.

We also recommend visiting the websites of other psychology departments to learn more about their program.

Psychology Doctoral Programs in Washington

For those looking to enhance their educational experience, there are a number of doctoral programs in psychology in Washington. Though most people think of Washington as the unofficial capital for coffee shops, for beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities like rafting or fishing, there are also a number of educational opportunities available. The Evergreen State is home to several world class colleges and universities with programs that are accredited and well known for training some of the best psychologists in the country. When seeking out a doctoral program in Washington, it can be in your best interest to look into and consider the following programs:

Seattle Pacific University

School of psychology, family, and community.

The School of Psychology, Family, and Community at Seattle Pacific University has a strong commitment of educational excellence for its students. The curriculum is faith-based and rooted in academics. Additionally, the school teaches a commitment to service in the community. The school also puts a focus on research and effective practice of the psychological discipline. The curriculum at the school is comprehensive and covers a variety of consulting, clinical training and service both on campus and off. Students are also encouraged to participate in a number of professional opportunities. The faculty is devoted to their work and often invites students to participate in their research.

Clinical Psychology Ph.D.

The clinical psychology Ph.D. that is offered by Seattle Pacific University is ideal for those who embrace a worldview from a Christian standpoint and those who are committed to enhancing the lives of those who struggle with psychological conditions. This is one of the accredited doctoral programs in Psychology in Washington and offers students an exceptional opportunity to earn their degree.

This is a full-time program that typically takes about five years to complete. The curriculum is based on a “local clinical scientist” model which is seen as an expansion of the scientist-practitioner model in clinical psychology. The program features a balanced curriculum of research as well as clinical practice. Coursework is designed to bring together biology, psychology and sociology to give graduates a solid understanding of people.

Upon graduation, students will often work as clinicians, but also as scholars, program directors and as supervisors.

Accreditation

• The School of Psychology, Family and Community is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Contact Clinical Psychology Seattle Pacific University 3307 Third Ave. W., Ste. 107 Seattle, WA 98119 Phone: 206-281-2839 Email: [email protected] Program Website

University of Washington

Department of psychology.

The Department of Psychology at the University of Washington is one of the largest at the school. The department is home to an internationally recognized faculty that many consider to be pioneers in psychology. The program looks at all aspects of psychology from clinical and cognitive to development and social perspectives. Graduate students in the department are taught to think creatively and critically about psychology and gain this knowledge through research, internships and classroom instruction. The curriculum for the department is designed to give students the information they need to succeed in psychology and with interdisciplinary studies sprinkled throughout, students will be well-prepared to enter into the workforce.

The program for clinical psychology at the University of Washington is designed to help students integrate the scientific and academic parts of psychology with professionalism. The program has a number of goals for the graduate. One such goal is that the program helps students to develop a strong foundation and understanding of clinical psychology as well as focusing on current psychological issues. Students are taught how to apply their knowledge in the clinical field and how to conduct research, write grant proposals and how to contribute to academic research.

This program is ranked each year as one of the top clinical psychology programs in the country. The program has also been recognized with awards for the quality of training it offers to students. In addition, it has been recognized by the American Psychological Association for its innovative practices and teachings.

School Psychology Ph.D.

The school psychology program at the University of Washington will prepare students to become licensed as a psychologist and will help them to become a specialist is serving school aged children. This is a five to six year program with at least three years focusing on the school psychology aspects of the discipline. Though students who enter into the program are not required to have a degree in school psychology, they will need to follow an Ed.S. program to gain the knowledge necessary to earn a Ph.D. degree.

This program will prepare students to work in school settings, to teach graduate level courses, to work in hospitals and to research. Like other psychology programs at the school, this one takes on an interdisciplinary focus.

• The University of Washington is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Contact University of Washington Department of Psychology Box 351525 Seattle WA 98195-1525 Phone: (206) 543-2640 Email: [email protected] Program Website

Washington State University

Graduate school.

The Graduate School at Washington State University is the home of over 120 different graduate level courses. The school is focused on providing a solid academic basis which will allow students to work with world-class faculty in order to develop their own ideas. Students in the graduate school will be taught to think critically, will learn to work through unfamiliar information and will be able to work within a diverse and dynamic community that has high standards when it comes to integrity and knowledge. There are many opportunities for students who are looking for a graduate level degree at Washington State University including in psychology.

Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology

The Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at Washington State University is a program that is based on the model of training known as scientist-practitioner. The program has been designed to bring research, theory and clinical practice together in order to train students. Students are given the opportunity to participate in research programs and will be required to enter into clinicals before taking on a yearlong internship.

Students who graduate from this program often make contributions to the world of clinical psychology in research, academics, medically, clinically and through community. This is a highly competitive program and students will need to have a minimum of 18 credits in psychology at the undergraduate level and have a minimum of a 3.00 out of 4.00 cumulative GPA. Students will also have to submit GRE scores, letters of recommendation and information on their experience with psychology.

Resource:  What is Considered a Good Score on the GRE?

Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology

The program offering a Ph.D. in counseling psychology is also offered by Washington State University and is ideal for those who are interested in teaching, counseling or research. Graduates of the program generally go on to work in university counseling centers, as academic faculty, in private or group practice and in other mental health environments. Students who successfully graduate with a Ph.D. in counseling psychology will be prepared to take the licensing exam is most US states. This is a program that is well known throughout the country for its high-quality educational experience.

This is an accredited psychology degree program that has received a number of awards including the Suinn Minority Achievement award which is given to schools showing exemplary recruitment and retention of students coming from diverse backgrounds. The program is very proud of their focus on cultural diversity.

• Washington State University is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Contact Office of Graduate Studies Washington State University Cleveland Hall 252 Pullman, WA 99164-2114 Phone: 509-335-9195 Email: [email protected] Program Website

For those who are looking for Ph.D. level programs in psychology, Washington will offer a number of options. It doesn’t matter which program a student chooses; they can be confident knowing that they will get a world-class educational experience that is accredited. By choosing one of the doctoral programs in psychology in Washington, you can be sure to get your career started in a positive way.

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Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology

Become the clinical expert others turn to for insight.

The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree enables students to qualify for professional licensure as a psychologist in Washington State. Graduates are equipped to be culturally competent therapists, diagnosticians, and evaluators. In addition, the PsyD Program prepares emerging psychologists for research or teaching at the college or university level.

The PsyD is a five-year post-bachelor’s program focused on theoretical and applied evidence-based scholarly literature and research. Emphasis is placed on international, multicultural, and social justice issues through a Christian worldview.

Program Quick Facts

• APA accredited
• Next start: August 26, 2024
• Main application deadline: December 15 th
• 121 credits
• $1,025 per credit (2024–25)
• Evening classes 6-10pm usually twice a week

Note : Each year the application needs to be submitted on December 15 th and all application items will need to be received no later than January 15 th .

Virtual Information Session

Join us for a Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology information session:

• Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 4:00pm

View all upcoming info sessions .

APA Accredited

Northwest University’s doctoral program in Counseling Psychology is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association (APA)*, effective 10/28/18 .

*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 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

Making a Place in the World

Auston Ellis found himself with little direction following his undergraduate degree. After being recruited to work with young children suffering trauma, he learned what true happiness looks like in the face of life’s obstacles. His subsequent pursuit of pediatric psychology at NU’s PsyD program has spanned many life milestones—marriage, a medical diagnosis, and the birth of his son. Throughout, PsyD professors encouraged him to find his unique style as an emerging psychologist, within a professional community that has become family. “My cohort and professors have walked every step of the way with me and will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Hear From a PsyD Graduate: Careers

Dr. Edward Suarez Jr. discusses his career path since graduating from Northwest University and the reasons he was drawn to the PsyD program.

My name is Dr. Edward Suarez Jr. Regarding my career, I'm a licensed psychologist and a research assistant professor at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine and the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. I'm also the behavioral health director of IDEA Syringe Services Program, which is Florida's first and only legal needle exchange program. But before all of those things, I was a graduate student at Northwest University. Let me whip out my old jacket, if you don't mind you. But sticking with that career part, I also work with patients living with HIV. I work at the Miami Transplant Institute providing psychiatric evaluations as well. But I'm talking about what I do now. But let me talk about the beginning. So I first heard about Northwest University PsyD program when I was living here where I am now back home in Miami. And the thing that I thought was most interesting about it at the time was its focus on social justice. And then when I got to speak to a few of the professors and understood that they, in their own personal lives or rather careers, well a little bit of both, let's be honest, they chose to advocate for those who are marginalized and living with situations in their own lives when it's related to psychiatric diagnoses or environmental stressors that are a bit complicated. And so once I saw that the professors at Northwest University practiced their own style of servant leadership within the community as psychologists, I learned this through my interview, right? I was like, OK, I want to go to Northwest University.

These professors seem like they're helping the community. And that's kind of what I want to do when I grow up. I guess that was my decision to go to Northwest University. That's why I went. The most influential component of the program again is the social justice piece—to me. It's understanding the multicultural lens which we all view the world through and how that can help you regarding clinical applications. The other piece about Northwest University that I loved so much is that they make sure that you're doing alright as a human being and they have professors that will leave an impact on you. It's just who they are.

I had a very busy schedule, so when I was living out in Washington State, I was working in a Community Mental Health Center full-time, but because the classes were at night, it was doable. And I learned a little bit about psychology, psychiatry, whatever you say during the daytime, right. And then I would learn about the books at nighttime at Northwest University. And so I got my real world experience at work. And when I got the books, at Northwest University. And then year three came about, in year three, that's when you start practicum. And then I got to use both the books and my real world experience and all the professors experience, and I got to use it in the real world and apply my skills.

And it was then that I really started feeling the moment that I could really be somebody who changes the community. And I think if it wasn't for Northwest University, I would have never had that light bulb moment working at the Department of Corrections at a community mental health center. And lastly, a federally qualified health center, again with individuals who are living beneath the margins. I learned that my knowledge, my skill sets, my abilities can add value to the community.

And so if I had one thing to say to someone who's considering enrolling at Northwest University in our PsyD program, I'd have to say go for it. I have to say, if you really want to grow, if you want to be taken out of your comfort zone so you can grow, if you want to learn a little bit about the other, go to Northwest University. Obviously, they're going to train you in everything that you need to know so that you become a licensed psychologist. I'm a product of that, I promise. But beyond the clinical applications, beyond learning how to diagnose the idea of psychopathology, the therapeutic modalities, all those things, you will be helped by those who in their own lives are centered. And that will leave you centered and you will be able to do more for the community because you went to Northwest.

Program Mission

The mission of the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program is to prepare students as counseling psychologists equipped to serve others’ needs in a globally relevant and socially conscious manner. Using the practitioner-scholar model, this applied program trains students to be skilled practitioners who engage in evidence-based and theory-informed practice. With a unique focus on service to the global community, a commitment to social justice, and a Christian worldview, we strive to equip our graduates to serve others with compassion and excellence.

Hear From a Current PsyD Student: Cultural Immersion

Evelia Guizar discusses how our cultural immersion trip helped her to step outside of her comfort zone and gain cultural insights that can only come from first-hand experiences.

My name is Evelia. I am in the PsyD program. I will be graduating in 2025, and with my degree I plan on working with the immigrant community. From the beginning of the program, when I applied, I knew that we would be going on a cultural immersion trip and I was apprehensive about that. But you know, it's something that has to be part of it and I'll do it. But it was really incredible to just connect everything that up until that point, we had learned in class in textbooks and articles about culture. And I knew that a big focus of the trip was to highlight the emphasis of the university has with culture and cultural competencies—and that it was important. But it's not until you're there that you really get a sense of that, that you really step out of your day-to-day comfort zone, environment, and you're coming into an environment where you're just, in a way, an outsider, you're observing. And that's where you start connecting everything that you have learned until that point. So it's in a way a pinnacle of everything that you've experienced. The information in readings and all the papers that we wrote on culture, on theology, on spiritualism, and all these different values that impacts us as human beings and just seeing everything come together was very incredible.

So for me, the biggest highlight was seeing the different value systems in culture. In books and readings, we always hear, OK, the individualistic cultures versus collectivist, but we all experience, in our day-to-day probably aspects of both. But we don't really ever get a clear picture of what it really is to see it from a distance, from our own lenses of perspective and experiences. So being there, just seeing the native Alaska community, how those individualistic values have acted on oppression and historical trauma and seeing those consequences. We visited a homeless shelter, we visited the Heritage Center, and all those experiences really highlighted how individualistic values have, in a way, imposed on those collectivist value systems. And it's created this gap where everybody works to coexist. But it's hard. It's hard because it's communities coming from different perspectives and different experiences and reconciling both. It's not easy, it's challenging, and it's a big task. So I think in summary, just experiencing that firsthand and feeling those emotions and what all that meant throughout the trip really was a strong, strong experience for me.

So a big interest of mine in psychology and in the research that I'm working on and that I plan on doing in my dissertation is cultural values. And it's based on my experience of being an immigrant and assimilating to the host culture and now having a model in my life, where I'm part of both cultures. Where I value both.

So that experience from the trip, I think, really set roots for me and how I want to approach my research. Focusing on what factors from both cultures we use as protective factors to have a healthy wellbeing, to be successful, to lead us to where we are healthy, not just in body, but also in mind. There's so much research on how just having that incongruity with feeling like you're not a whole person, the impact that it has on your health and your mental well-being. Much of my research and my interest was reinforced by that experience and I really want to explore the factors, the positive factors that can come from two cultures coexisting. And not just looking at the negative, because that's a lot of the research that we see and information of how, you know, the negative aspects of it all. But there are positives, too. And I've experienced those positive factors as well.

Program Aims

The three aims of the PsyD program are as follows:

• To produce graduates who have obtained the necessary skills and abilities needed for providing professional psychological and counseling services.
• To develop scholars with the ability to critically analyze scientific research and to conduct psychological research.
• To develop graduates with knowledge of the fundamental theories and scientific foundations of psychology.

Program Competencies

The PsyD Program is designed to help students meet the competencies essential for achieving its three aims. At the completion of the program, the successful PsyD doctoral student will be equipped professionally in the following ways:

• Demonstrate the substantially independent ability to formulate research or other scholarly activities (e.g., critical literature reviews, dissertation, efficacy studies, clinical case studies, theoretical papers, program development and/or evaluation projects) of sufficient quality and rigor to have the potential to contribute to the scientific, psychological, or professional knowledge base.
• Conduct research or other scholarly activities.
• Critically evaluate and disseminate research or other scholarly activity via professional publication and presentation at the local (including Northwest University), regional, or national level.
• The current APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct;
• Relevant laws, regulations, rules, and policies governing health service psychology at the organizational, local, state, regional, and federal levels; and,
• Relevant professional standards and guidelines.
• Recognize ethical dilemmas as they arise and apply ethical decision-making processes in order to resolve the dilemmas.
• Conduct self in an ethical manner in all professional activities.
• Demonstrate an understanding of how their own personal/cultural history, attitudes, and biases may affect how they understand and interact with people different from themselves.
• Display knowledge of the current theoretical and empirical knowledge base as it relates to addressing diversity in all professional activities including research, training, supervision/consultation, and service.
• Show the ability to integrate awareness and knowledge of individual and cultural differences in the conduct of professional roles (e.g,. research, services, and other professional activities), including (a) the ability to apply a framework for working effectively with areas of individual and cultural diversity not previously encountered, and (b) the ability to work effectively with individuals whose group membership, demographic characteristics, or worldviews create conflict with their own.
• Demonstrate the requisite knowledge base, ability to articulate an approach to working effectively with diverse individuals and groups, and apply this approach effectively in their professional work.
• Behave in ways that reflect the values and attitudes of psychology, including integrity, deportment, professional identity, accountability, lifelong learning, and concern for the welfare of others.
• Engage in (a) self-reflection regarding one’s personal and professional functioning, and (b) activities to maintain and improve performance, well-being, and professional effectiveness.
• Actively seek and demonstrate openness and responsiveness to feedback and supervision.
• Respond professionally in increasingly complex situations with a greater degree of independence as they progress across levels of training.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of individuals, including colleagues, communities, organizations, supervisors, supervisees, and those receiving professional services.
• Produce and comprehend oral, nonverbal and written communications that are informative and well-integrated, demonstrating a thorough grasp of professional language and concepts.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills and the ability to manage difficult communication well.
• Demonstrate current knowledge of diagnostic classification systems, functional and dysfunctional behaviors, including consideration of client strengths and psychopathology.
• Demonstrate understanding of human behavior within its context (e.g., family, social, societal and cultural).
• Demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge of functional and dysfunctional behaviors including context to the assessment and/or diagnostic process.
• Select and apply assessment methods that draw from the best available empirical literature and that reflect the science of measurement and psychometrics, collecting relevant data using multiple sources and methods appropriate to the identified goals and questions of the assessment, as well as relevant diversity characteristics of the service recipient.
• Interpret assessment results, following current research and professional standards and guidelines, to inform case conceptualization, classification, and recommendations, while guarding against decision-making biases, distinguishing the aspects of assessment that are subjective from those that are objective.
• Communicate orally and in written documents the findings and implications of the assessment in an accurate and effective manner sensitive to a range of audiences.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with recipients of psychological services.
• Develop evidence-based intervention plans specific to the service delivery goals.
• Implement interventions informed by the current scientific literature, assessment findings, diversity characteristics, and contextual variables.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the relevant research literature to clinical decision making.
• Modify and adapt evidence-based approaches effectively when a clear evidence-base is lacking.
• Evaluate intervention effectiveness, and adapt intervention goals and methods consistent with ongoing evaluation.
• Demonstrate knowledge of supervision models and practices.
• Apply this knowledge in simulated practice with psychology trainees or other health trainees or professionals.
• Demonstrate knowledge and respect for the roles and perspectives of other professions.
• Demonstrate knowledge of consultation models and practices.

Hear From Associate Professor Dr. Nikki Johnson

Dr. Nikki Johnson explains the pillars of our PsyD and MA degrees in counseling, and why they are different and unique from other programs.

My name is Nikki Johnson and I am one of the professors at Northwest in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. I teach in the PsyD program, which is a graduate program for doctoral student study and counseling psychology. I also teach in the master's program for Counseling Psychology.

Something that distinguishes the Northwest program is that it really emphasizes multiculturalism, diversity, and social justice. Those lenses will be integrated into how we see our clients, how we understand cases, and it's really a fundamental part of the curriculum. And I think that distinguishes it from a lot of other programs in the area. The faculty are very accessible to explain concepts and meet and have office hours and talk to students about what they're experiencing and are open to feedback. We really are invested in our students on a personal level. We want to know if you're enjoying the education and learning and how can we supplement you in achieving your career goals.

In the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences it is really important for us that we are minding best practices, staying current with research, but also being active and invested in the communities. So we would like to know and focus on how can we translate what we're learning in the classroom to real life application, real social justice, real community service, and real jobs outside of the walls of the classroom.

The faculty is unique in that they are very supportive, they're very accessible, and the cohorts tend to become very close. We're not interested in creating a competitive environment, but an environment where all students can thrive and they can lean on their classmates and colleagues for support. Not only are you learning, but we hope that you're fostering relationships with colleagues and connections and various networks that you can utilize down the road when you're building your career.

Why Choose Our Doctoral Program?

Licensable degree for the state of washington.

Graduate knowing that you can become a fully licensed psychologist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the median annual wage for psychologists was $102,900 in 2021, ( source ).

Integrate Faith with Learning

Our programs are taught within the framework of a Christian worldview. Psy.D. students also take one theology course titled “Faith Integration with Psychology” to encourage them to think deeply about their own beliefs about the nature of humans in light of contemporary issues in the field of psychology.

Distinguished Faculty

Our professors draw from their academic studies and real-world professional experiences to provide students with the tools and skills they’ll need to be successful in counseling and psychology.

Learn to Treat the Whole Person

We teach you how to engage your clientele from a holistic approach: biologically, psychologically, spiritually, and culturally. The result is even greater effectiveness as a counselor or psychologist.

Accredited at the Highest Level

The APA Commission on Accreditation is recognized by both the secretary of the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation , as the national accrediting authority for professional education and training in psychology.

Our regionally accredited university status represents the highest level accreditation offered by the Department of Education.

Local and Global Immersion Experiences

You will deepen your skills and understanding by participating in local and international immersion experiences. These experiences will not only equip you for your career, they have also proven to be life-changing.

Learn Within a Diverse Cohort

Learn with other students who share your interests and your goals. It’s a supportive environment of peers who will encourage you, challenge you, and become a fundamental part of your professional network once you graduate.

The PsyD program at Northwest University provided a safe place for me to learn and grow and gain a strong foundation of doctorate-level knowledge to later become licensed and specialize in the areas I am most passionate about.

–Dr. Renee St. Jacques

Degree Requirements

• 121 semester hours of coursework
• 10 hours of individual psychotherapy (out-of-pocket expense)—Year One
• Cultural Immersion Experience—Year One A hallmark of the PsyD program is its required international cultural immersion experience in the second year. Psychologists care for people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. The PsyD curriculum prepares students through study, clinical experience, and interaction with culture specialists to work in diverse global contexts. In addition, students are required to participate in a 10-14 day cultural immersion experience. Sites may vary from year to year, and include such places as India, Turkey, China, El Salvador, or Uganda.
• Qualifying Examination—Year Three
• Quantitative research;
• Qualitative research;

The process will include a dissertation proposal, proposal defense, and dissertation defense to the respective dissertation committee. It is also required that the student formulate and deliver a presentation of the dissertation (e.g., publication, speaking engagement, formal report to a clinic or other agency).

As participants in the larger academy, we seek to contribute to psychological science through our scholarship and, in turn, build knowledge that has impact on the world and society. Our faculty have built a policy about this research which can be found on the PsyD Clinical Training and Research page .

• Doctoral Practicum experience which satisfies all program and state requirements.
• Advanced Practicum or Pre-internship experience which satisfies all program and state requirements.
• Internship experience which satisfies all program and state requirements.
• All requirements as noted in the Clinical Training Sequence section of the PsyD Student Handbook.

Admissions Requirements

Learn about admission requirements and application instructions for both domestic and international students.

View Admission Requirements

PsyD Student Handbook

For an in-depth overview of the program, download a PDF of the PsyD Student Handbook.

View Course Descriptions

You can explore program details such as course descriptions and graduation requirements for this program in our academic catalog.

Questions about this program?

I would love to answer any questions about the Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology program that you may have.

Daniela Steinkamp, M.A.

How can we best serve you.

Serving God and neighbor through transforming relationships.

The Seattle School is one interdisciplinary graduate school and seminary offering immersive, holistic graduate degree programs in counseling psychology, divinity, theology, and culture. Discover your calling, and hone your craft with us.

We began as a gathering of a few passionate dreamers who imagined a new kind of theological and psychological training—embracing the human story, in its beauty and complexity.

By the Numbers

Alumni leading in the field as pastors, counselors, artists, and leaders.

The year our school began and matriculated our first cohort.

“The prophet is not an outsider throwing rocks, nor a comfortable insider who defends the status quo; but one who lives precariously with two perspectives held tightly together in a loving and creative tension: the faithful insider and the critical outsider. ” Richard Rohr Explore our Programs

Upcoming Events

Campus tour in seattle.

May 21, 2024  |  May 28, 2024  |  June 11, 2024  |  June 25, 2024

Admissions Coffee Hour: Live Q&A with President McNeil

June 6, 2024

Attuning to the Heartbeat of a Hurting World

At The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology, we train people to attune to the heartbeat of a hurting world, knowing that this can only happen when we are also attuned to our own heartbeats—the joy, pain, grief, and hope of what it means to be human. Our entire learning model is grounded in that conviction.

The Persistent Hope of Transformation

The Seattle School trains pastors, therapists, leaders, and artists who are attuned to both the beauty and the brokenness in their own stories and in the world around them. As we near the end of our 25th year, would you consider partnering with us to help build the bridge to our future? Learn how at theseattleschool.edu/give.

Lovers of the World

We are led by our alumni. When you give to The Seattle School, you join us in sending women and men into their communities with the capacity to change and be changed by their world.

Learning Takes Your Whole Body

We live in a complex world. Engaging the beauty, complexity, and brokenness in ourselves and in the people around us requires a new kind of education—one that is robustly Christian, deeply questioning, and profoundly human. If you are seeking to deepen your capacity to work as a therapist, pastor, artist, leader, or healer, we invite you to join us at the intersection of text, soul, and culture.

Featured Content

Christ & Cascadia Gathering 2024

February 5, 2024

This spring, join us for a unique, relational event addressing the pressing questions of our time and place. The upcoming 2024 Christ & Cascadia Gathering on April 25, 2024, marks the revival of an annual Christ & Cascadia tradition, now under the stewardship of The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. We aim to foster […]

Board Games & Mental Health: Episode 2 Small World

May 14, 2024

In this second episode of Board Games & Mental Health, Jermaine Ma, Paul Hoard, and Paul Steinke continue their conversation around the intersection of board games, psychology, and theology while playing the game “Small World.” Paul Hoard sets the table for this episode, guiding us through the rules of the game, and talking about the nature of play as a psychic […]

Ghost & Shadows Conversation Series: Podcast with Guest Dr. J. Derek McNeil

February 27, 2024

For the fourth podcast conversation in the Ghosts & Shadows Conversation Series, Dr. Paul Hoard and Dr. Doug Shirley wanted to hear from Dr. J. Derek McNeil, President and Provost of The Seattle School. Dr. McNeil joined the leadership team at The Seattle School in 2010, and he has served as President since 2019. Enjoy […]

Transformative Education

Our sacred mission is one of building capacity to think, empathize, and mindfully engage amid pain, trauma, and injustice. Our immersive, interdisciplinary education model develops adaptive, embodied practitioners.

“My professors at The Seattle School are not only invested in my classroom learning, but in my becoming more fully who I am, and doing that with grace and patience. I feel called to work with people in such a way that it leads unto joy — and not cheap joy. My primary excitement is being alongside people during the impossible work of lament. ” Carrie Cates, MDiv '17

Featured Courses

Engaging global partnerships: creating conversations with grassroots’ leaders in their context.

Hosted by Guatemalan leaders serving communities impacted by poverty, lack of education, homelessness, addiction, and gang violence, students participate in pre-trip readings and film study focused on Latin American theology, history, and culture.

Ron Ruthruff

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Critical Social Theory: Bridging Church & Community

A mid-year and advanced course that examines critical theory, postmodern philosophies, feminist theory, multiculturalism, queer theory, masculinity studies, cultural studies, critical race social theories, and religion.

Dr. Angela Parker

Interpersonal Neurobiology

Introducing and exploring the expanding data from neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology, this course addresses how this information can be used to enhance the practice of psychotherapy and the movement toward wholeness and integration within the context of relationship.

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Human Sexuality

A course designed to ask questions about the nature of biological sexuality, sexual preference, sexual identity, and desire.

Dr. Paul Hoard

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Washington Master’s in Psychology Programs

Written by Sarah Walsh

Clinical PsyD — Rutgers University | Clinical Psychologist

Looking to pursue a Master’s in Psychology in Washington State? It’s a great choice! The state offers a diverse and vibrant culture, a strong healthcare sector, and many research institutions, making it an excellent environment for students to study and grow in their field.

Washington is home to several U.S. News and World Report top-ranked universities that offer comprehensive and accredited Master’s in Psychology programs. Studying under these programs will provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen areas of specialization and opportunities to learn from experienced faculty members, engage in critical thinking, and conduct cutting-edge research projects. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of universities in Washington that offer comprehensive and accredited Master’s and Doctorate in Psychology programs. Pursuing these programs is a crucial step towards becoming a licensed psychologist in Washington.

Master of Arts in Psychology in Washington State

If you’re interested in pursuing a Master of Arts in Psychology, Washington has some top universities that offer this program. A masters in psychology is a graduate-level degree program that takes about two years to complete and covers various topics in psychology, such as developmental, abnormal, and social psychology, as well as neuroscience.  The state of Washington also offers Doctorate and PhD in Psychology Programs to provide advanced training and research opportunities and produces experts in the field of psychology. These programs offer in-depth coursework and rigorous dissertation requirements to foster intellectual growth and critical thinking skills.

During these program, you may get the chance to do research, work with patients, or complete an internship. Some great universities in Washington that offer these programs include the following:

Seattle University – Master of Arts in Psychology

Seattle University is located in Seattle, Washington, and offers a Master of Arts in Psychology program through its College of Arts and Sciences. Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the Master of Arts in Psychology program at Seattle University is committed to providing a rigorous and high-quality education that prepares graduates for a variety of careers in psychology or for further study in doctoral programs. The program is also aligned with the American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines for graduate study in psychology.

• Estimated Program Cost: For the 2022-2023 academic year, a full-time student is approximately $22,770 per quarter for Washington State residents and $28,610 per quarter for out-of-state students.

Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in Washington State

Saint martin’s university – master of arts in counseling psychology.

Saint Martin’s University, nestled in the heart of Lacey, Washington, offers an exceptional Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program that prepares students for fulfilling careers in counseling. This program emphasizes the development of students’ knowledge, skills, and self-awareness through an engaging blend of coursework, field experiences, and supervised clinical practice.

The Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program at Saint Martin’s University is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring that graduates meet rigorous national standards for counselor education and training.

• Estimated Program Cost: While a full-time student in the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program for the 2022-2023 academic year can expect to pay an estimated $17,460 per semester, the actual program cost will depend on several factors, including enrollment status and financial aid opportunities.

Bastyr University – Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

Bastyr University, located in Kenmore, Washington, offers a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program that prepares students for rewarding careers in the field of mental health. What sets the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program at Bastyr University apart is its emphasis on holistic health and wellness. The program’s faculty are committed to providing a well-rounded education that recognizes the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical health. Students learn to approach counseling from a holistic perspective, taking into account each client’s unique needs and experiences.

The Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program at Bastyr University is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards for counselor education and training, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful careers in counseling.

• Estimated Program Cost: The Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program at Bastyr University is estimated to cost $24,845 per quarter for the 2022-2023 academic year.

Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology

Click here to see more Master’s programs in Clinical Psychology in the state of Washington .

Master of Science in Experimental Psychology in Washington State

Western washington university – m.s. in experimental psychology.

Western Washington University’s M.S. in Experimental Psychology program is a rigorous and dynamic program that prepares students for a variety of careers in the field of psychology. Located in Bellingham, Washington, the program provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in research, statistical analysis, and critical thinking.

The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) has accredited the MS in Experimental Psychology program at Western Washington University, guaranteeing that the program satisfies high standards for academic excellence. The program’s curriculum is aligned with the American Psychological Association’s (APA) guidelines for graduate study in psychology, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for further study or for professional careers in the field.

• Estimated Program Cost: For the 2022-2023 academic year, the estimated cost of tuition for a full-time resident student is approximately $10,836 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $27,522 per year.

Central Washington University – Master’s in Experimental Psychology

Central Washington University’s Master’s in Experimental Psychology program delivers an advanced education that equips students with the skills to succeed in psychology careers. Situated in Ellensburg, Washington, the program provides a broad spectrum of opportunities for students to explore their interests and acquire practical experience in research and analysis.

Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the Master’s in Experimental Psychology program guarantees that students receive an exceptional education that meets rigorous academic standards. The program’s curriculum aligns with the American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines for graduate study in psychology, which establishes a sturdy base in psychological theories, research methodologies, and data analysis for students.

• Estimated Program Cost: During the 2022-2023 academic year, a full-time resident student can expect to pay an estimated $8,496 per year for tuition, whereas out-of-state students may anticipate paying around $23,244 per year.

Master of Arts in Educational Psychology in Washington State

Washington state university – master of arts in educational psychology.

Washington State University’s Master of Arts in Educational Psychology program creates a unique and engaging learning environment that prepares students for successful careers in the field of education. Located in the serene town of Pullman, Washington, the program’s curriculum encompasses a broad range of topics such as cognitive and social psychology, motivation, assessment, research methods, and program evaluation.

Furthermore, the Master of Arts in Educational Psychology program at Washington State University has received accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), indicating the program’s commitment to academic excellence. The curriculum is aligned with the National Council on Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) standards, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field.

• Estimated Program Cost: As for the 2022-2023 academic year, full-time resident students can expect an estimated cost of $11,042 per year, while out-of-state students may anticipate paying around $27,114 per year.

Master of Arts in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment

University of washington – master of arts in applied child & adolescent psychology: prevention & treatment.

The University of Washington offers an exciting Master of Arts in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment program that provides students with a comprehensive education in the field of child psychology. Situated in the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington, the program creates a supportive and collaborative learning environment that encourages students to explore their interests and gain practical experience.

With a focus on evidence-based interventions and practical experience, the Master of Arts in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment program at the University of Washington stands out from other programs. Students benefit from close collaboration with faculty members who provide mentorship and hands-on training in various clinical settings. As a result, graduates are well-prepared to pursue successful careers in education, research, and clinical practice, with the ability to positively impact the lives of children and adolescents.

• Estimated Program Cost: Current estimated cost for the program is $40,280, which includes tuition, fees, and other expenses that students may incur during their studies.

Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Seattle pacific university – master’s in industrial-organizational psychology.

With its accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and alignment with the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) standards, Seattle Pacific University’s Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology program offers a top-quality education that meets rigorous academic standards. 

The program’s curriculum places a strong emphasis on ethical and socially responsible practices in the workplace, empowering graduates to promote positive organizational culture and employee well-being across diverse industries. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the modern workplace and make meaningful contributions to their organizations.

• Estimated Program Cost: The Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology program at Seattle Pacific University is priced at an estimated cost of around $17,640 per year for full-time resident students for the academic year of 2022-2023. Meanwhile, out-of-state students should anticipate paying approximately $26,640 per year.

Washington Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Washington Doctorate in Psychology Programs are among the top-notch advanced-level programs that can take your education in psychology to the next level. Upon completion, graduates earn either a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree and are equipped to pursue careers in academia, research, or clinical practice. 

Among the top-notch universities in Washington that offer Doctorate in Psychology Programs are the:

PsyD in Counseling Psychology

Northwest university – psyd in counseling psychology.

Northwest University’s PsyD in Counseling Psychology program is a highly reputable and comprehensive program that provides students with a strong foundation in the field of psychology. Located in Kirkland, Washington, the program offers students a supportive and collaborative learning environment that encourages exploration and practical experience.

The program is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets rigorous academic standards. To complete the PsyD in Counseling Psychology program at Northwest University, students must fulfill a minimum of 114 credit hours, which include coursework, practicum, and internship experiences. The program’s duration is typically between 4 to 5 years, depending on factors such as enrollment status and individual progress.

• Estimated Program Cost: For the academic year 2023-2024, the cost of tuition per credit is $1,005.

PhD in Clinical Psychology

Antioch university seattle (apa) phd in clinical psychology.

Antioch University Seattle’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program is highly regarded for its exceptional education in psychology. Located in Seattle, Washington, the program fosters a supportive and collaborative learning environment that encourages practical experience and exploration.

The program upholds strict academic standards to guarantee that students receive a high-quality education and has received accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA). To complete the program, students must finish a minimum of 150 quarter credits, including coursework, practicum, and internship experiences. Depending on individual progress and enrollment status, the program typically takes 5-6 years to complete.

• Estimated Program Cost: Full-time students can expect to pay approximately $29,670 per year for the 2022-2023 academic year .

Washington State University- PhD in Clinical Psychology

Washington State University’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program offers students a rigorous and engaging education in the field of psychology. Located in the vibrant city of Pullman, Washington, the program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets rigorous academic standards. 

The PhD in Clinical Psychology program requires students to complete a minimum of 129 credits, which includes coursework, research, practicum, and internship experiences. The program typically takes 5-6 years to complete, depending on individual progress and enrollment status.

• Estimated Program Cost: For the upcoming academic year of 2022-2023, full-time in-state students can expect to pay an estimated tuition cost of $16,740 per year. It is important to note that the actual cost may vary based on individual factors such as financial aid opportunities and other related expenses.

University of Washington – PhD in Clinical Psychology

The University of Washington’s Clinical Psychology program is a top-rated PhD program that prepares students for careers in research, teaching, and clinical practice. The American Psychological Association has accredited the program, which aims to give students a solid foundation in both scientific theory and practical application.

Located in Seattle, Washington, the Clinical Psychology PhD program at the University of Washington typically takes five to six years to complete. The program requires completion of a minimum of 90 credits, including core courses in topics such as psychopathology, cognitive-behavioral theory, and developmental psychology.

• Estimated Program Cost: For the 2022-23 academic year, graduate students who are residents of Washington State can expect to pay $18,057 in tuition, while nonresidents and international students can expect to pay $31,530.

EdS in School Psychology

Seattle university post-ba eds in school psychology.

Seattle University’s Post-BA EdS in School Psychology program provides a comprehensive education in the field of school psychology and is located in Seattle, Washington. But what sets this program apart? Seattle University’s Post-BA EdS in School Psychology program focuses on promoting social justice and diversity in education. 

As an accredited program by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), you can rest assured that you will receive a high-quality education that meets rigorous academic standards. The program requires students to complete a minimum of 87 quarter credits, including coursework, practicum, and internship experiences.

• Estimated Program Cost: The cost of tuition for the Post-BA EdS in School Psychology program for the 2022-2023 academic year is approximately $22,320 per year for full-time students, though the actual cost may vary depending on factors such as enrollment status and residency status.

Central Washington University – EdS in School Psychology

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in school psychology, you should consider Central Washington University’s EdS in School Psychology program. The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has accredited this program, guaranteeing that students will receive a high-quality education that satisfies strict academic standards.

To complete this program, students must finish 72 credit hours of coursework, which usually takes around three years. During the program, you will receive a broad education in psychological theory, research methods, and evidence-based practices and have the opportunity to gain practical experience through supervised practicum and internship experiences in a variety of school settings

• Estimated Program Cost: Out-of-state students who plan to enroll in Central Washington University’s EdS in School Psychology program for the 2022-2023 academic year can expect to pay approximately $24,408 per year in tuition fees. This is almost double the amount that full-time resident students would have to pay, which is around $11,136 per year.

Eastern Washington University – EdS in School Psychology

Eastern Washington University offers an exceptional Educational Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology program that prepares students to become highly skilled and ethical school psychologists. Located in Cheney, Washington, the program provides a supportive and collaborative learning environment that fosters exploration and practical experience.

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has accredited Eastern Washington University’s EdS in School Psychology program, and it satisfies the requirements of the Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB). The program requires students to complete a minimum of 72 credit hours, which includes coursework, practicum, and internship experiences. The program typically takes 3 years to complete, depending on enrollment status and individual progress.

• Estimated Program Cost:   The estimated cost of tuition for full-time in-state students pursuing the EdS in School Psychology program varies around $13,778 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $26,932 per year

PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Seattle pacific university – phd in industrial-organizational psychology.

Eastern Washington University’s EdS in School Psychology program is an excellent choice for students looking to pursue a career in school psychology. Located in Cheney, Washington, the program provides students with a supportive and collaborative learning environment that fosters growth and exploration.

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has accredited the program, guaranteeing that students will receive a top-notch education that satisfies rigorous academic standards. To earn an EdS in School Psychology from Eastern Washington University, students must complete a minimum of 72 credits, which includes coursework, practicum experiences, and a year-long internship.

• Estimated Program Cost:   The estimated cost of tuition for a full-time in-state student is around $13,778 per year, whereas out-of-state students are required to pay around $26,932 per year.

Washington Psychology Licensing and Mental-Health-Focused Organizations

Washington State has a diverse array of mental health-focused organizations that play a critical role in advocating for mental health, supporting professionals in the field, and promoting access to high-quality mental health care. In particular, the state has several organizations that specialize in licensing and regulating psychology practice.

Here is a list of organizations in Washington State that focus on psychology licensing and mental health advocacy:

Washington Psychologist License Lookup : In the state of Washington, the Department of Health (DOH) is responsible for the licensing and regulation of mental health professionals, including psychologists. To ensure that psychologists meet the necessary qualifications and maintain their professional standards, the DOH provides a useful tool called the Provider Credential Search.

Washington State Examining Board of Psychology : The Washington State Examining Board of Psychology is a regulatory body responsible for overseeing the practice of psychology in the state of Washington. Its primary functions include issuing licenses to qualified psychologists, establishing and enforcing professional standards, and addressing any ethical or disciplinary issues that may arise. The board aims to protect public health and safety by ensuring that psychologists practicing in the state meet appropriate educational, training, and ethical requirements.

Cognitive Science Society : As stated on their website, the Cognitive Science Society is a global organization dedicated to promoting interdisciplinary research on cognition, mind, and intelligence. The society unites scholars from diverse fields such as psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, anthropology, and philosophy, all of whom share a passion for unraveling the mysteries of the human mind and its inner workings.

National Alliance on Mental Illness Washington State (NAMIWA) : The National Alliance on Mental Illness Washington State (NAMIWA) is a regional branch of the nationwide advocacy organization NAMI, which focuses on supporting individuals affected by mental illness and their families. NAMIWA strives to improve the quality of life for people living with mental health conditions in Washington State through education, advocacy, and support services. By raising awareness, promoting mental health education, and offering resources, NAMIWA aims to reduce stigma and foster a supportive community for those impacted by mental health challenges.

Washington State Association of School Psychologists : The Washington State Association of School Psychologists (WSASP) is a professional organization dedicated to representing and supporting school psychologists in Washington State. One main goal of WSASP is to promote the psychological well-being and educational success of all students. The association achieves this by advocating for best practices in school psychology, offering professional development opportunities, and encouraging collaboration among its members.

Association of Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses : The Association of Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses (AAPPN) is a professional organization that represents specialized mental health nurses, including psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs). AAPPN strives to support these professionals by offering educational resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy initiatives to further their field.

Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute : The Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute (SPSI) is a prominent organization dedicated to the study, practice, and advancement of psychoanalysis in Seattle and the surrounding region. Through a variety of educational programs created to teach mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors, the principles and techniques of psychoanalysis, SPSI seeks to maintain the highest standards of education, training, and research in the field.

Washington State Psychological Association : The Washington State Psychological Association (WSPA) is a professional organization that represents the field of psychology in Washington State. As an organization that embraces diversity, WSPA values and encourages membership from a wide range of psychological professions. This inclusivity provides a platform for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and expertise, ultimately leading to the advancement of the field of psychology in Washington State.

Washington Association for Behavior Analysis : The Washington Association for Behavior Analysis (WABA) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the science and application of behavior analysis in Washington State. WABA aims to provide a platform for behavior analysts and other professionals interested in behavior analysis to network, share knowledge, and collaborate on research and practice. To achieve this, the organization provides professional development opportunities and resources to its members, including continuing education courses, workshops, and conferences.

Washington Data and Mental Health Statistics

Understanding mental health trends and statistics is essential for promoting effective prevention and treatment strategies. In Washington State, several organizations and agencies collect and analyze data related to mental health, providing valuable insights into the state’s mental health landscape. From suicide rates to prevalence of mental illness, this data helps inform policymakers, healthcare providers, and individuals seeking mental health services.

• According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration , approximately 1 in 5 adults in Washington State experienced a mental illness in 2020.
• In 2020, suicide was the 8th leading cause of death in Washington State, with a rate of 15.7 deaths per 100,000 people.
• In 2020, the state of Washington experienced a 24.6% increase in suspected drug overdose deaths , with a total of 1,824 deaths reported.
• The prevalence of serious mental illness among adults in Washington State was 4.4% in 2019, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health .
• In 2020, Washington State reported a suicide attempt rate of 3.5%, higher than the national average of 3.1%.
• The Washington State Department of Health reports that suicide rates among Native American and Alaskan Native populations in the state are 2-3 times higher than the state’s overall suicide rate.
• The percentage of adults in Washington State who reported experiencing frequent mental distress was 10.7% in 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
• The Washington State Department of Health reports that the prevalence of depression among high school students in the state increased from 24.8% in 2016 to 28.3% in 2020.
• The Washington State Department of Health reports that in 2019, there were 92 opioid overdose deaths in King County alone.
• The rate of binge drinking among adults in Washington State was 16.1% in 2019, higher than the national average of 14.0%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

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Counseling and Wellness Center’s psychology internship program accredited by the APA

May 9, 2024

From Sislena Ledbetter, WWU Associate Vice President for Counseling, Health and Wellness Services:

"I am thrilled to share with you some incredibly exciting news! Our Counseling and Wellness Center’s Psychology Internship Program, under the exceptional leadership of Dr. Ruby Casiano, has been granted full American Psychological Association (APA) accreditation for the next 10 years! To achieve APA accreditation, our Counseling and Wellness Center has demonstrated that it meets or exceeds the stringent standards set forth for excellence in counseling services and its clinical training program at Western. This accreditation is not easily attained and reflects a commitment to the highest standards of professional practice and ethical conduct.

Dr. Casiano, who oversees our doctoral internship training program, has worked tirelessly over the past few years to achieve this remarkable feat. I wanted to publicly celebrate our CWC, it’s dynamic director CJ Swanlund, and the entire team for this significant milestone.  Please take a moment to join me in recognizing Dr. Casiano and her team for their exceptional contributions to this program and for consistently promoting the highest standards in psychology doctoral training on our campus."

PhD in Psychology Further Your Understanding of Psychology

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Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Understand the Human Experience from a Biblical Worldview with an Online PhD in Psychology

Do you want to deepen your knowledge in psychology and use your research to contribute to the field of understanding human behavior? Liberty University’s PhD in Psychology can provide rigorous research training that can better prepare you for a career in academia and research. An online PhD in Psychology is ideal for students who want to bring new knowledge of human behavior to the field and find new ways to help people heal, grow, and thrive.

Liberty’s PhD in Psychology is designed to prepare you to evaluate research and to understand the truth about human behavior from a biblical worldview. Our mission is to  Train Champions for Christ , and we fulfill this mission by training professionals to use science and biblical values to understand the full breadth of the human experience. Our unique, biblically-based approach to this field can help prepare you to make a positive impact on those you work with.

With Liberty’s PhD in Psychology, you can take part in optional face-to-face on-campus intensives that will allow you to meet faculty and other students while you develop your professional and research skills.

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Psychology Degree?

Liberty’s online PhD in Psychology is designed to build on your previous study and experience in human psychology and develop you into a researcher and psychologist who demonstrates ethical and academic excellence while integrating biblical values into your practice.

Through this program, you will:

• Learn how an appreciation of biblical values enhances psychiatric practice by putting human value at the forefront of technique and theory.
• Develop a grounded critical approach to psychiatric research and theory while integrating a biblical worldview into approaches to current issues in psychology.
• Master psychiatric research and writing techniques that can establish your work in the study of human behavior.
• Complete dissertation research through your program with mentorship from your professors so that you have the option to present research at conferences.

Through this program, you will be encouraged to become a thought leader on a variety of topics related to the human experience. Our goal is to help you venture into the world of psychiatric research and practice and offer insights based on biblical foundations of truth that can help people heal and thrive.

Featured Courses

• PSYC 510 — Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology I
• PSYC 710 — Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview
• PSYC 716 — Theories and Research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PSYC 775 — Teaching of Psychology

Degree Information

• This program falls under the  School of Behavioral Sciences .
• View the  Graduate Behavioral Sciences Course Guides   (login required).
• View the  PhD in Psychology Dissertation Handbook
• The online PhD in Psychology is a non-clinical, non-licensure program.

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Degree?

To help you meet your educational goals in a way that fits your life, our online PhD in Psychology provides scheduling flexibility and keeps affordability in mind. Our PhD in Psychology’s online format allows you to take your classes from home without traveling to campus. However, this program still provides a community of psychology professionals and the ability to take optional intensive courses to allow you to connect in person.

Throughout this program, Liberty incorporates a biblical worldview into your instruction. This perspective in your research and practical training in psychology can help you develop professional and academic excellence without compromising an ethical appreciation for human life. Additionally, our caring faculty are devoted to helping you grow personally and academically.

With our online PhD in Psychology, you can learn effective clinical techniques, essential behavioral theory, and develop your research and writing expertise. You can be equipped with a thorough understanding of human thought and behavior while developing your own research to further the field.

Earning a PhD in Psychology online with Liberty means that you will be trained to engage with research and psychiatric practice critically and biblically. If you are interested in becoming a thoughtful, articulate, and research-focused professional, then this is the program for you.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Potential Career Opportunities for PhD in Psychology Graduates

• Corporate psychologist
• Program or department head
• Project manager

Degree Options for Our PhD in Psychology Program

Focus your studies in psychology with a specialization.

Behavioral Health Leadership

Through the  PhD in Psychology – Behavioral Health Leadership , you can hone your research and leadership skills as you prepare to pursue administrative and management positions in mental and behavioral health organizations.

View the Degree Completion Plan .

Developmental Psychology

Through the online  PhD in Psychology – Developmental Psychology , you can learn about research theory related to human development, including cognitive development, social development, and language development.

General Psychology

The online PhD in Psychology – General Psychology provides an in-depth study of advanced psychiatric research and practice while giving you room to customize your course content.

Industrial/Organizational Psychology

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology  track, you will study human behavior in organizations and the workplace. You will focus on deriving principles of individual, group, and organizational behavior and applying that knowledge to developing solutions for challenges in the workplace.

Social Psychology

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Social Psychology  track, you can learn about research and theory related to social processes and relationships, attitudes, and other constructs related to social psychology.

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Theology  track, you can learn how to study the Bible and integrate that study of the Bible with research in psychology to further your understanding of psychological concepts.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information for Our PhD in Psychology

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Contact information  for 2 recommenders is required (approved recommenders are the student’s former college professors or supervisors).
• Statement of Purpose  is required (1,000-1,500 words, double spaced).
• Departmental approval is required.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

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(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

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Email for Documents

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Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there opportunities to interact in-person with peers.

You can meet faculty and fellow students in person through optional on-campus intensives.

Can I have an impact through this degree?

Through your dissertation, you can contribute to the understanding of human experience and behavior.

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