Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program

Our educational philosophy is to produce scientist/practitioners who possess expertise in both research and clinical practice. Our program and the associated career opportunities fit the needs of both students whose primary interest lies in psychological research and those who are primarily focused on a career in clinical practice.

Program Mission Statement

Through a rigorous foundation in scientific psychology as well as broad and general training in research and clinical practice, the Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program at Sam Houston State University provides candidates with opportunities to develop attitudes, knowledge, and skills to become effective clinical psychologists as well as researchers and scholars. In addition to this foundation in general clinical psychology, our program places an emphasis on training students to become legally informed clinicians with knowledge and experience providing professional services within the legal system.

SHSU Statement of Belonging

As a core value at SHSU, we are committed to being an institution that is welcoming, compassionate, and supportive, a place that provides all students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to engage, learn, and work in an environment of mutual respect and understanding. We strive to foster a campus culture of belonging where everyone is valued and has a positive, meaningful experience.

Mentor Model

Students are admitted to the program under the supervision of a primary research mentor who serves as the supervisor for a student's first-year research assistantship. Although students will be generally expected to complete thesis and dissertation projects with their primary research mentor, they are encouraged to interact and engage in research with other faculty members, as well. Students who develop research interests that fall outside their primary mentor's areas of expertise may conduct thesis and/or dissertation research under the supervision of other faculty members.

Accreditation

The Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program at Sam Houston State University has been continuously accredited by the American Psychological Association since 2006. The program received reaccreditation in May 2019 and will have its next site visit in 2028.