At MSP we offer a Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD). In a PsyD program, the emphasis is on the clinical aspects of psychology, while Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD) degree programs more heavily concentrate on research.
The table below provides a comparison of the differences between the PsyD and PhD degrees.
| PsyD Program | PhD Program | |
|---|---|---|
|
Employment following graduation |
Graduates pursue licensure and work in clinical settings, or in private practice, e. g. sitting with clients in psychotherapy, intervention programs |
Graduates primarily pursue jobs focused on teaching, research, analysis, business and industry or clinical work |
|
Educational Model |
Practitioner–Scholar or Practitioner-Scientist |
Generally Scientist-Practitioner |
|
Research |
Using research to inform clinical skills development, clinical expertise/training is primary, informing any research topic from perspective of a particular population or intervention |
Conducting research, clinical expertise/training is secondary |
|
Interface with Research |
Utilizing research to inform approach to treatment and treatment outcomes |
Collecting and analyzing research for publication and presentation |
|
Clinical Training Emphasis |
Significant curriculum devoted to clinical skill development and extensive hours of practicum/internship training required (3500-4000 hours) |
Programs vary, may include little or no clinical training such as practicum/internship whereas some programs do focus on preparation for clinical work |
|
This program is ideal for individuals who enjoy: |
Critical thinking, intense on-site training |
Data, research, studying literature, applying theories |
|
Dissertation |
Some programs require a dissertation, while others require an equivalent academic project suited to clinical practice. |
Required |
|
Master’s Degree |
Some programs are structured to include completion of an MA along the way while some require prior to prior to starting a PsyD program. |
Often completed along with PhD |
|
Accrediting Body |
APA |
APA |
|
Ideal for: |
Individuals who seek to use research to inform practice, be an active practitioner, utilizing theory and evidence based methods in practical application |
Individuals who enjoy data, conducting research, interface of theory, literature review and research findings |
To learn more about the PsyD degree and the different training models in clinical psychology, read the following article from APA Division 12: Society of Clinical Psychology.
