Program Overview

Program Description

The goal of the Doctor of Philosophy degree in clinical psychology at Loma Linda University is to train students to be well-grounded in the theory and science of psychology, and to become practicing clinical psychologists and/or researchers in various settings. The comprehensive mission of the clinical psychology programs is to provide students with the cumulative experiences necessary to become:

• Scientifically oriented
• Intensively trained and highly skilled psychologists
• Well-prepared as psychologists (academicians, researchers, consultants, supervisors, or clinicians) in the discipline of psychology in the twenty-first century, particularly in health-related fields and within the context of a holistic approach to human health and welfare.

Program Length

The program length is 6 years, including a one-year pre-doctoral internship.

Possible Careers

The psychology programs prepare individuals for careers in settings such as:

• General hospitals serving adult and pediatric patients
• VA hospitals
• Community mental health clinics
• University/college counseling centers
• Military psychology
• Private practice
• Academia

Application Deadlines

The application deadline for fall term is December 1.

Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements include:

• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Three letters of recommendation (preferably from current or previous professors)
• Structured pre-admission interview by invitation (once all requirements for admission have been received)

Prerequisites

There are no specific courses required for this degree.

Discipline Accrediting Agency

The Clinical Psychology PhD program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

State Accrediting Agency

Loma Linda University is regionally accredited by the WSCUC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges [WASC] Senior College and University Commission).

Expected Cost of Attendance

The estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. The costs include:

Required Program Costs

• Tuition and fees
• Books, materials, supplies, and equipment allowance

Other Educational Costs

• Living expense (food and housing allowance)
• Transportation allowance
• Miscellaneous personal expenses
• Federal student loan fees
• Cost of obtaining professional license

Notes

80% of students in the Psychology department receive financial aid. Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only and are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts. Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector. To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half-time in an aid-eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half-time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.