Augsburg University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, supervised clinical training, and original research. Core areas of study typically include research methods and statistics, psychopathology, psychological assessment, psychotherapy theories and techniques, multicultural and community psychology, ethics and professional practice, and advanced practicum or practicum supervision.

• Research methods and statistics: advanced quantitative and qualitative methods, experimental design, longitudinal analysis, and psychometrics.
• Clinical assessment: diagnostic interviewing, standardized testing, case formulation and differential diagnosis.
• Intervention and psychotherapy: evidence-based therapies across modalities (e.g., cognitive–behavioural, psychodynamic, family systems), group interventions, and intervention development.
• Specialty seminars: seminars in topics such as child and adolescent mental health, trauma, substance use, health psychology, or geropsychology depending on faculty expertise and student interests.
• Practicum and supervised experience: sustained clinical placements with structured supervision to develop applied skills and meet requirements for professional licensure where applicable.
• Doctoral dissertation: an original research project that contributes to knowledge in clinical, counselling or applied psychology, culminating in a defended dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field, or a bachelor’s degree with significant graduate-level preparation and research experience. Typical application materials include a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a statement of research interests and career goals, a sample of academic writing or a research proposal, and academic or professional references. Demonstrated research experience and clinical exposure (e.g., practicum, internships, or work in mental health settings) strengthen an application. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD pursue a range of careers in academia, clinical practice, research, and leadership positions in health and human services. Common pathways include:

• Academic roles such as university faculty, researcher or postdoctoral scholar focused on clinical and applied psychology topics.
• Clinical practice as licensed psychologists working in hospitals, community mental health centres, private practice, schools or specialised treatment programmes (licensure typically requires completion of supervised hours and passing national/state examinations).
• Research positions in government, non-profit organisations, or industry conducting applied research, programme evaluation, and policy analysis.
• Clinical leadership, programme development, supervision, and consultancy roles within healthcare systems, schools, and community agencies.

Why study at Augsburg University

Augsburg University provides doctoral students with close faculty mentorship within a community-oriented campus environment. The programme emphasises applied research and community engagement, offering opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and practical clinical training through partnerships with local healthcare and social service providers. Small cohorts and accessible faculty enable tailored supervision for dissertation work and professional development, while the university’s urban location supports rich practicum placements and connections to regional mental health resources.