PhD in Psychological Sciences - Clinical Psychology in West Lafayette United States | Purdue University

The Clinical Psychological Sciences program in the Department of Psychological Sciences traces its roots to the early days of clinical psychology as a specialized field. In 1935, the American Psychological Association (APA) first advocated for specialized training in clinical psychology. Purdue University's Clinical Psychology Program earned APA accreditation in 1948 and has maintained this recognition without interruption. This doctoral program prepares students to contribute original research while developing professional skills for addressing psychological challenges. The curriculum combines theoretical instruction through coursework with hands-on research training under faculty mentorship, including a first-year project, master's thesis, preliminary examination, and doctoral dissertation. Students gain clinical experience through both on-campus and off-site practicum placements (detailed on the Purdue Psychology Treatment and Research Clinics website). This comprehensive approach to academic study, research, and clinical practice aligns with APA guidelines.