Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

This doctoral programme integrates coursework, supervised clinical experience, and a research dissertation to prepare graduates for independent practice, advanced assessment and academic or applied research roles. Core study areas include clinical and counseling theories, psychopathology across the lifespan, advanced diagnostic assessment, evidence-based psychotherapies, and supervised practicum and internship training.

• Research and methods: advanced statistics, quantitative and qualitative research methods, program evaluation, and design and conduct of original dissertation research.
• Clinical assessment and intervention: psychological testing and assessment, neuropsychological screening basics, intake and diagnostic interviewing, and tailored psychotherapy approaches for individuals, couples and families.
• Specialist topics: trauma-informed care, child and adolescent interventions, substance use and co-occurring disorders, health psychology and behavioural medicine, and supervision and consultation.
• Professional issues: ethics and legal issues in practice, multicultural competence and diversity, practicum/internship management, and professional development for leadership roles.
• Dissertation and research practicum: sustained empirical research under faculty supervision culminating in a doctoral dissertation that contributes original knowledge to applied psychology.

The programme typically combines intensive coursework and seminar work with supervised clinical placements in community, hospital or university settings. Students work closely with faculty mentors on research projects and present findings in internal colloquia and at professional conferences.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master's degree (for example, MA or MS in psychology, counselling, or a closely related field) or equivalent professional experience. Typical application materials include:

• A completed application form and academic transcripts demonstrating strong graduate-level performance.
• A current curriculum vitae outlining clinical, research and professional experience.
• A personal statement describing research interests, clinical background and career goals.
• Letters of recommendation, normally two to three, from academic or professional referees.
• Evidence of supervised clinical experience or practicum hours is highly desirable.

Some applicants may be invited for an interview. The programme may consider standardised test scores if submitted, but policies on tests vary; prospective applicants should check current guidance from the department. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in clinical practice, academia and applied research. Typical career paths include:

• Licensed psychologist in private practice, community mental health or hospital settings (meeting licensure requires supervised hours and compliance with state/provincial regulations).
• Faculty positions in universities and colleges, teaching and supervising at undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Clinical director, programme manager or senior clinician roles within healthcare systems, non-profit organisations and specialised treatment centres.
• Applied researcher or evaluator in healthcare, government and non-governmental agencies, or consultant in organisational and community contexts.

The programme’s combination of research training and applied practicum is aimed at graduates who wish to contribute to evidence-based practice and to assume leadership roles in mental health services and academic settings.

Why study at Saint Marys University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s emphasises a scholar-practitioner model that balances rigorous empirical training with direct client contact and community engagement. The department offers small cohorts and close faculty mentoring, which supports personalised supervision for clinical skill development and dissertation progress.

• Applied learning opportunities: strong links with regional hospitals, clinics and community agencies provide a variety of supervised practicum placements.
• Research mentoring: faculty engage in applied research and guide students through publishable projects and conference presentations.
• Values-driven education: the universitys Lasallian heritage underpins a focus on ethics, social justice and culturally responsive practice.
• Flexible delivery: structures that combine on-campus residencies with taught seminars and supervised clinical experiences accommodate working professionals.

Prospective students seeking a doctorate that prepares them for both independent practice and academic or leadership roles will find a supportive, practice-focused environment at Saint Marys.