Point Park University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous coursework, supervised clinical training, applied research and a dissertation. Core topics include advanced psychopathology, diagnostic assessment, evidence-based psychotherapies, lifespan development, ethics and professional issues, advanced research methods, and multivariate statistics. Students complete practicum placements focused on assessment and treatment, structured clinical internships, and comprehensive examinations prior to dissertation work.

• Core coursework: advanced clinical assessment, cognitive–behavioural and integrative psychotherapies, developmental psychopathology, multicultural and diversity issues in practice, ethics and law in psychology.
• Research training: quantitative and qualitative methods, psychometrics, program evaluation, grant writing, and seminar series in current research topics.
• Clinical training: sequential practicum placements in university clinics and community agencies, clinical supervision seminars, and an accredited internship or practicum that fulfils licensure-related requirements.
• Dissertation: an original research project conducted under faculty supervision, and a public dissertation defence or equivalent scholarly dissemination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a relevant master's degree in psychology, counselling, or a closely related field, or to demonstrate equivalent graduate-level preparation. Admissions review considers academic transcripts showing strong performance in research methods and statistics, a personal statement outlining research and career goals, a curriculum vitae, and multiple letters of recommendation—including at least one addressing research potential.

Additional expectations commonly include documented clinical experience (such as practicum or counselling work), familiarity with assessment and intervention, and successful completion of an interview with faculty. Some applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample or evidence of previous research. Specific requirements for standardized tests (where used) and prerequisites should be checked against the programme's official admissions guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of professional roles in clinical practice, research and higher education. Typical career paths include:

• Licensed clinical or counselling psychologist working in private practice, community mental health agencies, hospitals or specialty clinics (licensure requires completion of supervised hours and passing regional/national exams as per jurisdictional rules).
• Academic and research positions, including university faculty appointments, research scientist roles, and principal investigator responsibilities on funded projects.
• Leadership and supervisory posts in health systems, integrated care teams, non-profit organisations, and behavioural health programme management.
• Consultancy roles in organisational, forensic, or educational settings, providing assessment, training and programme evaluation.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park’s programme emphasises close mentorship, applied training and strong connections to Pittsburgh’s diverse clinical and research community. Small cohort sizes allow personalised supervisory relationships and regular faculty-student collaboration on research and practice projects. Students benefit from practicum and internship placements across a range of community partners and health-care settings in the city, enabling wide exposure to different populations and service models.

The university’s urban location supports interdisciplinary collaboration and access to professional networks, while the curriculum stresses multicultural competence, ethical practice and the integration of science and practice. For candidates seeking a doctoral programme with hands-on clinical training, research development and clear pathways toward licensure and academic careers, Point Park offers a focused applied psychology environment.