university of toronto phd psychology

Graduate Psychology at U of T

For general information about the graduate program, please follow the links below.

Note: Following these links will take you out of the UT-Mississauga web domain and to the Tri-Campus Psychology program website.

•  Psychology Graduate Program Information

•  Graduate Faculty in Psychology

•  Psychology Graduate Student Association

Additional information from websites maintained by the School of Graduate studies :

•  Graduate Funding and Awards (See also the information posted under "Program Admission" on the Graduate Program Information page linked above)

•  School of Graduate Studies

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Welcome to the Department of Psychology

Welcome to the UTSC Department of Psychology!  Our department is the academic home to more than 2,500 undergraduate students, enrolled in programs in experimental  Psychology ,  Mental Health Studies , and  Neuroscience . Our  faculty  are engaged in cutting edge research in 5 main areas of psychology and neuroscience:  behavioural neuroscience ,  clinical psychology ,  cognitive neuroscience ,  developmental psychology , and  social-personality psychology . Many of our faculty are also award-winning teachers. 

We are home to the  Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science , through which we offer an MA/PhD in clinical psychology, and we are actively involved in the  Tri-Campus Graduate Department of Psychology , through which we offer a PhD in experimental psychology. We invite you to explore our website and learn more about us!

We invite you to read our department’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement of Acknowledgements and Commitments .

School of Graduate Studies

Counselling psychology, program overview.

The Counselling Psychology program is offered by the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), leading to the Master of Education (MEd) and Doctor of Education (EdD) degrees.

There are three fields:

• Counselling and Psychotherapy (MEd, EdD)
• Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology​ (MEd)
• Guidance and Counselling (MEd)

In the field of Counselling and Psychotherapy, the MEd program provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop counselling skills appropriate for a variety of work settings. Students are encouraged to develop their courses and practicum learning experiences to suit their own goals. Examples of the types of goals for which suitable programs of study could be developed are adult counselling and psychotherapy, college and university counselling centres, career counselling, geriatrics counselling, multicultural counselling, and community mental health and family life centres. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and as a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

Counsellor training in the EdD program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in the educational system, the acquisition of effective supervisory and consultative skills, and the development and assessment of student counselling services in addition to the advanced study of counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of educational counselling; as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling to school, college, and related populations. This option will be especially attractive to individuals who have demonstrated a career commitment to the provision of counselling services in an educational and community setting.

In the field of Guidance and Counselling, the MEd program helps meet the need for well-prepared practitioners in the field of guidance and counselling in the schools. Therefore, strong preference for admission to this degree program is given to experienced teachers who are interested in specializing in guidance and counselling in the schools. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). The MEd program is typically offered on a full-time basis with a limited number of part-time spots available.

Quick Facts

Master of education, program description.

The field in Counselling and Psychotherapy , within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for counselling individuals across a variety of work settings. Students are encouraged to tailor their courses and practicum learning experiences to meet their particular learning goals. Examples of the types of goals for which suitable programs of study could be developed include counselling and psychotherapy with adults, college and university students, or older adults: career counselling; counselling with diverse clients; and counselling and psychotherapy in community mental health and family service settings. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and as a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

The MEd program is typically offered on a full-time basis with a limited number of part-time spots available.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below.

An appropriate bachelor's degree of any background or discipline, with a grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the final year, from a recognized university.

At least one year of relevant counselling-related experience.

Two letters of reference.

Program Requirements

Coursework. Students must complete 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

APD1202H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part I (0.5 FCE).

APD1203Y + Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy (1.0 FCE). The practicum placement is the supervised training component of this course.

APD1214H Critical Multicultural Practice: Diversity Issues in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE; corequisites: APD1202H and APD1302H).

APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1260H Family Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD1261H Group Work in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1302H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part II (0.5 FCE).

1.5 FCEs in electives. Recommended electives: one of

APD1266H Career Counselling and Development: Transition from School to Work (0.5 FCE),

APD1267H Emotion-Focused Therapy (0.5 FCE),

APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood (0.5 FCE),

APD1278H Cognitive Therapy (0.5 FCE).

A comprehensive examination . Upon completion of program course requirements, students must pass a written comprehensive exam of selected topics from the program curriculum and training.

Optional additional practicum, counted as one of the electives. Students may choose to complete a practicum (APD1247H Practicum in Adult Counselling and Psychotherapy ) for an additional 250 hours of field placement concurrent with the required course (APD1203Y + Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy ). Arrangements for the practicum placement must be made in consultation with and the approval of the Director of Clinical Training.

Program Length

5 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W); 10 sessions part-time

3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

+ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

The field in Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology , within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for the field of mental health and counselling psychology in international contexts. Students will be prepared to work in a variety of global applied settings with a focus on mental health. This degree program is ideally suited to students interested in an international perspective of mental health and counselling. This degree is cohort based and is offered full-time only.

An appropriate bachelor's degree, with a grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the final year, from a recognized university.

Normally, an interview is required prior to admission.

APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1228H Couples Counselling (0.5 FCE).

APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (0.5 FCE).

APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health (0.5 FCE).

APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context (0.5 FCE).

APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research (0.5 FCE).

APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master's Level (0.5 FCE).

In consultation with the program chair, students will take APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood , APD1291H Addictive Behaviours: Approaches to Assessment and Intervention , or another elective.

4 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F)

3 years full-time

1) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Medicine (China Medical University)

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and China Medical University (CMU)'s Master of Medicine (MMed) in Psychiatry and Mental Health programs.

In Year 1, students complete MMed coursework at CMU in Liaoning Province, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MMed coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at CMU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Students will gain both degrees in three years rather than the four years it would take to acquire the degrees independently.

Master of Education / Master of Medicine Program Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd/programs/master-education-counselling-psychology-global-mental-health-counselling-psychology-field/med

Master of Education Program Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, University of Toronto Email: [email protected]

Master of Medicine Program Department of Medical Psychology and Mental Health, China Medical University Email: [email protected]

Application Process

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Medical Psychology and Mental Health at CMU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system .

In order to be admitted to the dual degree program, applicants must meet the admission requirements of both programs. The admission requirements of the GMHCP field within the MEd program are stated below.

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Toronto as well as the specific requirements of the MEd program.

An appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a standing in the final year equivalent to at least a U of T B+.

At least one year of relevant counselling experience, which could be paid or volunteer.

Normally, an interview is required prior to admission to the MEd program.

During their U of T registration in the GMHCP field within the MEd program, students must successfully complete a total of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) .

Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MMed courses at CMU.

Students complete the following Year 2 MEd courses at U of T.

Fall session (1.5 FCEs):

APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology .

APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context .

​Winter session (2.0 FCEs):

​ APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy .

APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy .

APD1278H Cognitive Therapy .

APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research .

May-to-June period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

APD1228H Couples Counselling .

July-to-August period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master’s Level .

Fall session (0.5 FCE):

Complete the U of T MEd course APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health . This is a 250-hour placement in an approved field setting and must be arranged prior to admission to this program.

Continue the MMed program requirements at CMU.

Winter and Summer sessions:

Complete the MMed program requirements at CMU.

9 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S/F/W/S)

2) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Science (China Medical University)

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and China Medical University (CMU)'s Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Psychology programs.

In Year 1, students complete MSc coursework at CMU in Liaoning Province, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MSc coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at CMU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Master of Education / Master of Science Program Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd/programs/master-education-counselling-psychology-global-mental-health-counselling-psychology-field/med

Master of Science Program Department of Applied Psychology, China Medical University Email: [email protected]

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Applied Psychology at CMU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system .

At least one year of relevant experience, which could be paid or volunteer.

Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MSc courses at CMU.

Continue the MSc program requirements at CMU.

Complete the MSc program requirements at CMU.

3) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Applied Psychology (Zhejiang University)

Admissions to this dual degree program have been administratively suspended for the 2024-25 admissions cycle.

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and Zhejiang University (ZJU)'s Master of Applied Psychology (MAP) programs.

In Year 1, students complete MAP coursework at ZJU in Hangzhou, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MAP coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at ZJU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Master of Applied Psychology Program Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science, Zhejiang University Email: [email protected]

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science at ZJU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system .

Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MAP courses at ZJU.

Continue the MAP program requirements at ZJU.

Complete the MAP program requirements at ZJU.

The field in Guidance and Counselling , within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for the field of guidance and counselling in the schools. Strong preference for admission to this field is given to experienced teachers who are interested in specializing in guidance and counselling in the schools. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).

Teacher certification.

APD1262H Educational Psychological Testing for Counselling (0.5 FCE).

APD1266H Career Counselling and Development: Transition from School to Work (0.5 FCE).

0.5 FCE in electives.

A comprehensive examination . Upon completion of program course requirements, students will take a comprehensive examination of selected topics from the program curriculum and training.

Optional additional practicum . Students may choose to complete a practicum (APD1247H Practicum in Adult Counselling and Psychotherapy ) for an additional 250 hours of field placement concurrent with the required course APD1203Y + Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy . Arrangements for the practicum placement must be made in consultation with and the approval of the Director of Clinical Training.

Doctor of Education

Advanced counsellor training in this degree program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in educational and community settings with expertise in supervisory and consultative skills and advanced counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of counselling and psychotherapy as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school and college personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling in community and educational settings.

The field in Counselling and Psychotherapy will be especially attractive to individuals who have demonstrated a career commitment to the provision of counselling-related services in an educational and community setting. This professional doctorate is designed to prepare students to refine and build on professional knowledge and practice to support the development of scholar-practitioners to be leaders in their fields of professional practice.

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program is only available on a full-time basis.

Applicants must have the following to be admitted to the EdD program:

A bachelor's degree : an appropriate bachelor's degree of any background or discipline from a recognized university, with high academic standing.

A master's degree : an MA or MEd degree in Counselling Psychology or School and/or Clinical Child Psychology from the University of Toronto with a grade of B+ or better, or its equivalent from a recognized university. The applicant must have had successful professional experience and interest to increase and advance their knowledge of counselling and psychotherapy to become leaders in their fields. Applicants who hold an MEd or other non-thesis master's degree must submit evidence of their ability to identify a research question or problem, to design and conduct a research study or project, and to report the findings or results, all in a rigorous manner. This constitutes a Qualifying Research Paper (QRP).

Coursework. Students must take courses related to the development of advanced competence in counselling, psychotherapy, and mental health theory and practice and become sophisticated consumers of research in these and related fields. Students must complete a minimum of 5.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) including a practicum, internship, and thesis (dissertation in practice) as follows:

APD3115H + Research Proseminar in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD3215H Advanced Psychotherapy Seminar (0.5 FCE).

APD3261H + Clinical Supervision and Consultation Practicum (0.5 FCE).

APD3217Y + Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (1.0 FCE; Credit/No Credit): complete a 500-hour practicum before the Final Oral Examination.

APD3270H 0 EdD Internship (0.5 FCE): complete 500 hours of internship, typically after the Final Oral Examination. All internship arrangements must be made in consultation with the Director of Clinical Training.

Three courses, one from each of the following three groupings:

APD3116H Proseminar ll: Practice-Based Research in School and Counselling Psychology

APD3178H Advanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD3160H Advanced Family Therapy (0.5 FCE)

APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems (0.5 FCE) or one elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE).

In addition, students must take 1.0 FCE in their specific area of focus .

Option 1: Counselling and Psychotherapy for Adults

APD3163H Advanced Multicultural Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE)

One elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE)

Option 2: Counselling and Psychotherapy for Schools and Youth

APD5284Y Assessment and Intervention with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (1.0 FCE).

Optional additional practicum. Students may choose to take an optional continuous practicum (APD3271H 0 Additional PhD Practicum ) in conjunction with the required doctoral practicum course APD3217Y + Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (Credit/No Credit).

Thesis (dissertation in practice). All students must complete a thesis (dissertation in practice), the aim of which is to ensure excellent knowledge of counselling and psychotherapy theory, practice, and policy for professionals working with adults or youth to function as leading scholar-practitioners. The thesis (dissertation in practice) should be: a) well conceived, original, and likely to make a sustained contribution to mental health practice; b) involve creativity, innovative methods and techniques, and have the potential to improve practice; c) exemplary, sets high standards in the field, and can be emulated and; d) has the potential for significant public impact. The focus of the thesis (dissertation in practice) is expected to be on contributions to field development or to innovations in practice. Students will defend their thesis (dissertation in practice) at a Final Oral Examination.

Students are full-time and must maintain continuous, full-time registration and pay full-time fees until all degree requirements, including the thesis (dissertation in practice), are completed.

Students cannot transfer between the EdD and PhD programs.

4 years full-time

6 years full-time

0 Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

Counsellor training in this degree program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in educational and community settings with the goal of enhancing their expertise in their professional roles including supervisory and consultative skills and the advanced study of counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of counselling and psychotherapy; as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school and college personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling in community and educational settings.

The field in School Psychology will be especially attractive to practitioners providing direct services to children and youth in the education system (K-12) and will provide school psychology practitioners with core theoretical and practical training needed to develop research-informed leaders in the field of school psychology. The program is structured to provide students with the requirements necessary for registration as a School Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario.

Applicants must demonstrate either undergraduate- or graduate-level competence in each of the five core content areas of psychology: 1) Biological Bases of Behaviour; 2) Cognitive/Affective Bases of Behaviour; 3) Historical and Scientific Foundations of Psychology; 4) Scientific and Professional Ethics (graduate level); and 5) Social Bases of Behaviour, by successful completion of

1.0 full-course equivalent (FCE) at the second-, third-, or fourth-year undergraduate level or

0.5 FCE at the graduate level.

If the above requirements are not met, students must take additional courses to ensure they have completed the above requirements by the end of their program.

APD3401H Assessment with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (0.5 FCE).

APD3402H Intervention with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (0.5 FCE).

APD3403H 0 EdD Internship in School Psychology (0.5 FCE): complete 1,600 hours of internship, typically after the Final Oral Examination. All internship arrangements must be made in consultation with the Director of Clinical Training.

APD3116H Proseminar ll: Practice-Based Research in School and Counselling Psychology.

APD3178H Advanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD3160H Advanced Family Therapy (0.5 FCE).

APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems (0.5 FCE) or one elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE).​

Thesis (dissertation in practice). All students must complete a thesis (dissertation in practice), the aim of which is to ensure excellent knowledge of counselling or school psychology theory, practice, and policy for professionals working with adults or children/youth to function as leading scholar-practitioners. The thesis (dissertation in practice) should be: a) well conceived, original, and likely to make a sustained contribution to mental health or school psychology practice; b) involve creativity, innovative methods and techniques, and have the potential to improve practice; c) exemplary, sets high standards in the field, and can be emulated and; d) has the potential for significant public impact. The focus of the thesis (dissertation in practice) is expected to be on contributions to field development or to innovations in practice. Students will defend their thesis (dissertation in practice) at a Final Oral Examination.

“Having tailored supports for 2SLGBTQ+ people diagnosed with cancer would bridge a gap, and if providers had something they could refer patients to, that could help make such supports more prevalent as well”

Department of Applied Psychology & Human Development (APHD)

Welcome to the Department of Applied Psychology & Human Development

The Department of Applied Psychology & Human Development (APHD) is a research-intensive department with programs focused on basic and applied research relating to children, adolescents and adults. APHD boasts some of the finest, internationally-known scholars in their fields who teach in our five graduate programs; Child Study and Education (Teacher Education program); Counselling and Clinical Psychology; Counselling Psychology; Developmental Psychology and Education; and School and Clinical Child Psychology.

SOME program are still accepting application for a Fall 2024 start!

Programs that are still open for applications:

• Developmental Psychology & Education (MEd & Phd Flex only)
• Counselling Psychology: Global Mental Health field (MEd)
• Counselling Psychology: Counselling Psychotherapy field (EdD)
• Counselling Psychology: School Psychology field (EdD)

Interested in learning more about our programs that will be accepting for a Fall 2025 intake? Join our "Notify Me" list here to be notified of any upcoming information sessions we have planned to learn more about the programs, have your questions answered and even meet some of our faculty! 

Join the Notify Me list here.

Earn a Masters of Education in Developmental Psychology & Education

My biggest takeaway was the importance of building professional connections and establishing mentor relationships.

Degree Programs Offered

With multiple programs to to choose from, students from diverse backgrounds and experience with interest in mental health and well-being can earn a Masters of Arts, Master of Education, Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Education. Students will expand their knowledge of human development and improve practice in key areas such as teaching, counselling psychology, and school and clinical child psychology.

Doctoral Degrees - EdD/PhD (Domestic)

Doctoral degrees - edd/phd (international), masters degrees - ma/med (domestic), masters degrees - ma/med (international), teaching intensive experiences.

Unique to our department are teaching intensive experiences within the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study Laboratory School and the OISE's Psychology Clinic that provide students with rich practical experiences to advance understanding and innovation.

The Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study

Canada’s most integrated and dynamic institution committed to children’s education and well-being.

The OISE Psychology Clinic

The OISE Psychology Clinic provides comprehensive and confidential assessment and intervention services to children and adolescents, and assessment and counselling services to adults. 

Stay Connected with the Department of APHD

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Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) - Counseling Psychology

Develop exceptional  mental health counseling skills with a psyd in counseling psychology.

Expert mental health counselors are essential for a healthy society, but there often aren’t enough counselors to meet demand. With a Doctor of Psychology degree in Counseling Psychology from University of the Pacific, you can develop the skills required to fill this vital need.

Our PsyD degree helps you advance a career as a mental health practitioner by providing a deep knowledge base in psychology, clinical skills and research skills. Over the course of the four-year Counseling Psychology program, you’ll study counseling, assessment, ethics, psychopharmacology and more to become a well-rounded, effective counselor.

A flexible approach to earning your Doctor of Psychology degree

This PsyD program is taught through a flexible hybrid model that helps you fit your coursework into your busy schedule. Online you will find lectures, discussions, quizzes and more, so you can study new material when it’s most convenient to you.

Meanwhile, you’ll spend your valuable in-person class time on interactive learning. In-person learning takes up just one to two days a week, minimizing the time you have to spend commuting.

Stockton Campus Location

Hybrid course format, in-person 1-2 days/week.

Our PsyD in Counseling Psychology is crafted to give you in-depth knowledge in all the topics needed to be an effective counseling psychologist. What sets this Counseling Psychology program apart, though, is our commitment to giving you hands-on experiences and a flexible learning model.

Get In-Person Experience in the Field

Every PsyD candidate completes an internship before graduating, so you’re guaranteed to enter the workforce with practical experience on your resume. You’ll also have opportunities to practice your skills in practicum placements in various types of counseling settings.

Fit Your Studies Around Your Busy Schedule

We understand that you have a lot going on, from existing jobs to family obligations and more. So we’ve designed a hybrid PsyD program that mixes synchronous and asynchronous online learning with one to two days of face-to-face classes. Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid learning without sacrificing valuable in-person interaction.

Connect with Practioners and Researchers

The faculty of our counseling psychology program includes expert practitioners engaged in impactful research. You’ll also gain networking opportunities through practicums and your internship, so you’ll be able to establish a professional network while completing your PsyD degree.

Learn Alongside a Cohort of Peers

Courses for this Doctor of Psychology follow a predetermined sequence, so you’ll have no confusion about what to take next. More importantly, you’ll get to progress through the program alongside a cohort of fellow students, learning from and supporting each other as you take classes together.

“At University of the Pacific, we value and teach students to be reflective practitioners, collaborative leaders and lifelong learners. Students benefit from close working relationships with dedicated and passionate professors. Our distinguished faculty members are firmly engaged in the local community and provide students with exceptional opportunities for experiential learning.”

-Justin Low, Program Lead, University of the Pacific

What Can You Do With Your Doctor of Psychology Degree?

Once you’ve graduated with your PsyD degree, you’ll be able to help fill San Joaquin County’s pressing need for mental health professionals. Counseling jobs are available in mental health clinics, hospitals, private practices and schools — essentially, almost any setting you may be interested in

Mental health counseling is a growing field in high demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that jobs for mental health counselors will grow by 22 percent by 2031, a rate that’s much higher than the national average. Earning a PsyD in Counseling Psychology positions you to take advantage of this growth.

Explore Courses for the Doctor of Psychology

We’re committed to providing a foundation in both theory and practical applications for every aspect of counseling psychology in our PsyD program. Topics you’ll study include:

• Development
• Ethical practice
• Psychopharmacology
• Neuropsychology
• Research methods

Specific courses for the PsyD degree include practicum-based classes dedicated to developing hands-on experience, a group counseling course that teaches the theories of group dynamics through participation in group learning, and more.

Take the Next Step to Your Doctor of Psychology Degree

We take a hands-on approach with our students. This means we want to get to know you throughout your discovery and application process. Help us connect with you by taking the next step toward earning your PsyD in Counseling Psychology

Graduate Degree Programs Related to Counseling Psychology

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