The Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree in Combined Health Service Psychology is an applied clinical doctorate degree that focuses on providing health service training for those who wish to become practicing psychologists. Upon successful completion of the program, students will possess the skills necessary to provide psychological health services to diverse populations in a variety of applied settings (e.g., in-patient and out-patient medical settings, non-profit organizations, government agencies, private companies, educational settings). Students will complete course work in foundational and discipline-specific psychology, problem-solving to address psychological needs of diverse clientele, and application of research design, data collection, and analysis techniques culminating in a capstone project.
Students in the program select a concentration in Clinical, Counseling, or School Psychology. They may also select courses for an emphasis (Clinical and Counseling only), an experience, or an exposure. It is important to note that, in some cases, the selection may require additional hours beyond the required for the Psy.D. degree.
Earning a Psy.D. degree in Combined Health Services Psychology with concentrations in Clinical, Counseling, and /or School Psychology can create numerous career opportunities in the field of psychology. The program is designed to prepare graduates to become licensed clinical psychologists and provide quality care to individuals, families, and communities. Students in a Psy.D. program can expect to receive comprehensive training in clinical assessment, intervention, and psychotherapy, among other areas. The program emphasizes the importance of applying psychological principles to real-world problems, and graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide effective treatment and improve mental health outcomes. Pursuing a Psy.D. degree can lead to rewarding careers in private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.
The PsyD degree in Combined Health Service Psychology is not accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), but the program is actively seeking accreditation status with APA. The program has been approved for an APA site visit in Spring 2026, and the site visit has been scheduled for June 1-2, 2026.