35 Best PhDs in Clinical Psychology in 2021

Updated on June 25, 2021

Doctoral programs in Clinical Psychology build advanced skills and a strong scientific background in a broad scope of behavioral, developmental, and mental health problems. Areas include but are not limited to: behavior psychology, child psychology, diagnostic interviewing, ethics, interventions, and statistics.

Some programs emphasize applied clinical psychology science through clinical practica and hands-on psychology casework. Others focus more on clinical science, theory, and research. In any case, most programs require completion of ongoing investigation through theses and dissertations, and hands-on application through clinical internships and externships. Many programs follow a mentor model, meaning each student works closely with a faculty expert on specialized or general research.

Depending on their goals, doctoral clinical psychology degree holders may go on to work in research-based or directly client-serving roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the May 2017 median pay for psychologists was $77,030 annually. The field is experiencing a faster-than-average 14 percent growth rate.

35 Best PhD Programs in Clinical Psychology in 2021

Explore these promoted online degree programs.

These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online graduate degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online Master's or PhD programs.

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