University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme emphasises advanced training in psychological assessment, evidence-based interventions, psychopathology, and research methodology across the lifespan. Early years combine core coursework in clinical theory, statistics and research design, psychometrics, cognitive and affective neuroscience as applied to clinical problems, and specialised seminars (for example, adult psychopathology, child and adolescent clinical issues, health psychology, or neuropsychology).

Practical clinical training is integrated through practicum placements in university clinics and affiliated medical or community settings, progressing to more advanced therapy and assessment responsibilities. Students complete supervised clinical hours, a predoctoral internship placement, and a substantial original research programme culminating in a doctoral dissertation. Research training covers quantitative and qualitative methods, grant writing, and opportunities to collaborate on faculty-led laboratories focused on topics such as anxiety and mood disorders, substance misuse, developmental psychopathology, behavioural medicine, and brain–behaviour relationships.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualifications: A relevant master’s degree is advantageous but not always required; strong applicants typically hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology or a closely related discipline with demonstrated academic achievement.
• Research experience: Prior research experience (for example, honours projects, laboratory assistantships, or publications) is strongly preferred, as the programme is research intensive.
• Application documents: Applicants are normally asked to submit a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors.
• Clinical experience: Relevant clinical or volunteer experience is desirable but not mandatory for all applicants; demonstrated commitment to clinical work strengthens an application.
• Additional requirements: The programme may request examples of written work or a research proposal. Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) and specific prerequisites can vary—applicants should consult the department’s admissions guidance for current policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Clinical Psychology pursue a range of careers in academic research and teaching, clinical practice (following appropriate licensure), hospitals and health services, government and public policy, and non-profit organisations. Common roles include university faculty and principal investigators, licensed clinical psychologists providing assessment and psychotherapy in medical or private settings, clinical directors and programme evaluators, and research scientists in healthcare or industry. The programme’s emphasis on empirical methods also prepares graduates for roles in outcome research, clinical trials, and intervention development.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers a well-established clinical psychology doctoral training environment that combines strong faculty mentorship, diverse research laboratories, and integrated clinical training opportunities. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and affiliated clinical facilities, access to a range of practicum sites, and mentorship from faculty with active research programmes in major areas of clinical science. The department emphasises training to provide both high-quality research output and clinical competence, preparing graduates for careers that bridge science and practice.