What is the Difference Between a PsyD and PhD in Clinical Psychology?

Obtaining a graduate degree in psychology is a strategic way to upskill with new knowledge, specialize in a specific area of psychology and even develop the tools to open a private practice.

Some psychologists choose to pursue an advanced degree in psychology in order to boost their career, but particularly driven psychologists who want to develop the highest-level of skills often take the extra step to obtain a doctoral (or terminal) degree in psychology. 

But, not all terminal psychology degrees are the same.

Let’s explore the difference between two doctoral psychology degrees — and expand on which doctoral degree is well-suited for psychologists who want to secure a career focused on clinical practice.

What is a terminal degree?

A terminal degree is considered the highest level of degree that one can achieve within a specific field of study.

For instance, a Doctor of Medicine is considered the highest possible degree you can achieve in the field of medicine, while a Doctor of Education (EdD) is considered the terminal degree for the field of education. Some other terminal degrees include a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or Master of Landscape Architecture. 

With regards to the field of psychology, you can choose to obtain a variety of graduate or advanced degrees, but as far as terminal degrees are concerned — the options for psychologists are either a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

With these degrees in mind, we’ll explore a doctoral degree in clinical psychology specifically, a subfield of psychology that addresses a range of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders; integrating the science of psychology to identify, address and treat a breadth of human problems.

What is the difference between a PsyD and PhD in Clinical Psychology?

If you are interested in helping others through clinical practice, then you should choose a PsyD that prioritizes a practitioner-scholar model. In doing so, you will develop the practical skills needed to meaningfully contribute to the field and practice of clinical psychology.

What can I do with a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology?

Obtaining a doctorate degree is a significant investment, but before choosing to spend the time, money and energy to achieve a PsyD in Clinical Psychology, it’s important to understand what you can do with such a degree.

Because a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology focuses specifically on clinical practice and provides students significantly more opportunities to focus on specialization, students graduate from the program equipped with the theoretical frameworks to use in everyday psychotherapy sessions. 

Graduates armed with a PsyD are able to provide the highest level of patient care and treat diverse individuals and communities who are seeking to develop the strategies to live more fulfilling, healthy lives. A PsyD in Clinical Psychology also prepares graduates to open up their own private practice, a strategic choice for psychology professionals who are looking for autonomy in their careers.

Introducing the Mount’s Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology

Mount Saint Mary’s University’s Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology trains future practitioner-scholars who reflect the diverse populations of Los Angeles, the nation and globe. In addition, the program is closely aligned with the mission of our University — serving the needs of traditionally underserved and marginalized populations.

Our practitioner-scholar doctoral program strives to successfully train and empower the next generation of psychologists to prepare them to become leaders and agents of social change in Health Service Psychology and the larger world. 

PsyD faculty integrate a critical theory and social justice framework to coursework (e.g., assessment, psychometrics, quantitative research methods, etc.) and clinical training. All students are required to complete a social justice immersion during the summer of their first year to fulfill the mission of the University and our commitment to our communities.

The PsyD program offers doctoral students a choice of two emphases:

• Latinx Mental Health — Students enrolled in the Latinx Mental Health emphasis will focus their dissertation research, practicum and internships with Spanish-speaking populations. In establishing our emphasis of Latinx Mental Health, we set out to train mindful psychological clinicians to work in underserved, Spanish-speaking mental health communities. In order to accomplish this, we weave the perspectives of Latinx throughout both the required and elective courses in this full-time, five-year graduate program.

• Diverse Populations — Students enrolled in the Diverse Populations emphasis will focus their dissertation research, practicum and internships serving clients of various intersectional identities. Students are trained in the application of critical theories as a lens to unpack the ways systemic oppression impacts the mental health of historically marginalized communities. 

The Mount’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology is the kind of program that will prepare you to exist at the forefront of clinical psychology practice, and for this reason, we encourage you to connect with us. You can request more information, schedule an appointment or even start your online application.