Program Overview

Clinical Psychology Program

The Clinical Psychology program at UT Southwestern is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of clinical psychology. The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and is committed to training students to become competent and compassionate clinical psychologists.

Degree Requirements

To receive a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from UT Southwestern, students are required to satisfactorily complete their coursework and practicum. The general requirements for the Ph.D. include:

• Passing the qualifying examination and the clinical examination
• Satisfactory completion of a pre-doctoral internship
• Completion of an approved dissertation

Research Competency Qualifying Examination

The Research Competency Examination assesses the student's ability to evaluate critically the psychological research literature. Successful completion of this examination, along with satisfactory performance in coursework and practicum, qualifies the student for doctoral candidacy and permits the student to begin formal research and internship (beginning of the third year in the program).

Clinical Competency Examination

The Clinical Competency Examination is a major milestone in the Clinical Psychology Graduate Program, occurring at the end of the third year. This examination is designed to assess minimal competency of the student in the professional practice of psychology. The examination focuses on:

• Assessment
• Treatment planning and intervention
• Professional issues, sensitivity to diversity, and ethics Two faculty members evaluate each student in a standardized half-day oral exam.

Doctoral Dissertation

After a student is accepted into candidacy, an ad hoc doctoral committee is appointed by the Clinical Psychology Graduate Program Director. This committee conducts a preliminary proposal examination, supervises the dissertation, and carries out the final oral examination in which the student defends their work.

Program Structure

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in clinical psychology, including coursework, practicum, and research training. The program is committed to training students to become competent and compassionate clinical psychologists.

Program Faculty

The program faculty are experienced and licensed clinical psychologists who are committed to providing students with a comprehensive education in clinical psychology.

Research Training

The program provides students with research training, including the opportunity to work with experienced researchers and to conduct original research.

Student Organizations

The program has several student organizations, including the Clinical Psychology Student Organization, which provides students with opportunities for professional development and networking.

Student Profiles

The program has a diverse student body, with students from a variety of backgrounds and with a range of research interests.

Admission Requirements

The program has a competitive admission process, with a limited number of spots available each year. Applicants must have a strong academic record, including a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, and must submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Professional Outcomes

Graduates of the program are qualified to work as licensed clinical psychologists in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The program has a strong track record of placing graduates in competitive postdoctoral positions and faculty appointments.