University of San Diego

What you'll study

The doctoral curriculum blends advanced coursework, supervised clinical training, and original research leading to a dissertation. Core coursework typically covers advanced research methods and statistics, psychopathology, psychological assessment, evidence-based psychotherapy approaches, ethics and professional issues, and multicultural/diversity considerations in clinical work. Students also take specialised seminars in topics such as neuropsychology, developmental psychopathology, health psychology, psychopharmacology for clinicians, and intervention research methods.

• Foundations: advanced statistics, research design, quantitative and qualitative methods
• Clinical knowledge: adult and child psychopathology, diagnostic formulation, psychometric assessment
• Intervention skills: cognitive–behavioural therapies, family and couples interventions, trauma-focused approaches
• Professional issues: ethics, practicum and internship preparation, supervision and consultation
• Research specialisation: laboratory- or clinic-based projects, grant-writing, publication preparation

Training includes sequential practicum placements in university-affiliated clinics and community agencies, culminating in a full-time predoctoral internship. The dissertation process emphasises hypothesis-driven research, analytic rigour and dissemination through conferences and peer-reviewed journals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree with strong academic performance and substantial preparation in psychology or a closely related discipline. Typical application materials include an academic transcript, curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining research and clinical interests, samples of academic writing or research, and three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees. Relevant research experience and clinical exposure strengthen an application.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Some programmes may request standardised test scores or require an interview as part of the selection process. Candidates should consult the programme’s admissions page for the most current, specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates proceed to a variety of careers in clinical practice, academia and applied research. Common paths include:

• Licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, hospitals or community mental health centres (licensure requires meeting state-specific supervised hours and examination criteria)
• Academic careers as faculty members with responsibilities for teaching, research and supervision
• Research scientist roles in university, hospital or government research settings
• Clinical leadership, policy, program evaluation and administrative roles in health services, schools or non-profit organisations
• Specialist roles in forensic, paediatric, geriatric or health psychology settings

Doctoral training also prepares graduates to seek postdoctoral fellowships that further develop specialised clinical competencies or research portfolios needed for competitive academic appointments.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers doctoral training with a focus on rigorous research, ethical practice and attention to cultural and community contexts. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship in relatively small cohorts, which supports tailored supervision of clinical and research training. The programme integrates practicum experiences through on-campus clinical training centres and partnerships with local hospitals, community clinics and specialised service providers in the San Diego region.

USD’s location provides access to diverse clinical populations and collaborative opportunities with regional healthcare systems and research institutions. The university emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement and social justice in training, helping prepare graduates for both practice and scholarly careers. Prospective applicants should review the programme’s website for details on faculty research interests and current clinical training placements to assess fit with their professional goals.