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Dual Masters And PhD Programs In Clinical Psychology

A lot of people want to pursue a career in Clinical Psychology after their undergraduate studies – they’re captivated by the prospect of helping people and make a difference. However, not everyone has the budget and time to earn two graduate degrees (Master’s and PhD) like most psychologists do. Here is a list of dual Masters and PhD programs in clinical psychology, masters and phd combined programs uk, masters before phd clinical psychology, dual masters and phd programs in clinical psychology online & clinical psychology masters and phd programs that will allow you to effectively become a clinical psychologist in your area of expertise.

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Ph.D. in Psychology?

clinical psychology masters and phD programs

A master’s degree is the first level of graduate study. To apply for a master degree you usually must already hold an undergraduate degree (a bachelor’s degree). It’s been proven over and over again. Getting a college degree of any kind pays off. A Master’s degree is a second-cycle academic degree and the first level of graduate study, which means it is after a Bachelor’s degree and before a PhD.

2021 Best Dual Masters and PhD Programs in Psychology Online

This article discusses the prerequisites for a dual master’s and PhD program in psychology. You’ll also learn about the common courses you might take and the approximate duration of the program.

Clinical psychology degrees are usually only available as postgraduate programs. Once you have a bachelor’s in psychology or a relevant major you can progress to a master’s or PhD focused on this area of health and medicine.

However, in the UK, some universities have the option of studying the subject at bachelor’s level as part of a psychology degree or as a standalone degree.

A doctorate or PhD program in clinical psychology may require you to create an extensive research paper and new contribution to the subject, extensive practical training and assessments, as well as exams.

It’s likely that a clinical psychology program will entail work experience or a placement year to ensure that you have plenty of practical experience. The theoretical modules included within a clinical psychology program will vary depending on the university, but will revolve around topics such as:

  • Research
  • Cognition
  • Development
  • Individual differences
  • Neurophysiological disorders
  • Diagnosis
  • Conditions and treatments

What is a Dual Degree Program or Joint Masters and PhD Programs?

A dual degree program is typically structured to double-count some of students’ earned course credits to the completion of both degrees – masters and PhD. While the policies that govern these programs vary, essentially, dual masters and doctorate degree programs allow participants to:

  • Meld two different interests and study immersion-style
  • Customize their course plan
  • Bulk up a resume with extra skills and knowledge
  • Research at the highest academic level
  • Course share instead of completing the same material twice

How to Apply to Joint Masters and PhD programs

2021 Best Dual Masters and PhD Programs in Psychology Online

Applicants for dual masters and doctorate degree programs may need to apply separately for admission to both the schools within their university. Thus indicating their intent to pursue a dual degree.

As a result, you should talk to admissions counselors and program directors during the application process. In order to to make sure you have all required materials for starting graduate study.

Dual Degree vs Double Major

Combined masters and PhD programs are not to be confused with double majors or two degrees at the same academic level. A conjoined Masters/PhD program blends two postgraduate programs in areas such as:

  • Business administration
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • Medicine
  • Education
  • Psychology
  • Nursing

The curriculum usually draws from the syllabus of both programs, though the course load is a bit heavier. This may stretch out time to completion. But still usually takes less time than earning the degrees separately.

For example, American University offers a MA / PhD in Psychology. In this case. courses are an in-depth analysis in concentrations such as Behavior, Cognition, and Neuroscience and Clinical Psychology.

Clinical Psychology Graduate Programs Masters & PhDs

Common Combined Master’s and PhD Programs

Some grad schools with dual masters and doctorate degree programs may have a separate page devoted to dual degree and joint degree programs. Then again, they might require a conversation with the departments.

Below are some common programs to consider, including dual masters and PhD programs online. Remember, though you may not see the particular dual degree you’re looking for, this list of schools is open to combined master’s / PhD degrees. Therefore, contact admissions to see if the one you want to pursue is a possibility.

PhD / MBA Dual Degrees

There are multiple MBA / PhD joint programs to consider that enable graduate degree students to hone their grasp of the day to day management issues that today’s professional face along with functional skills in another area. In many of these programs, the MBA coursework usually comes first.

Here are a few masters and PhD combined programs in business administration to check out, with partner programs that offer each type of dual degree.

2021 Best Dual Masters and PhD Programs in Psychology Online

Why Enroll in a Dual Master’s and PhD Program in Psychology?

A dual master’s and PhD program in psychology is ideal for students who have a bachelor’s degree, preferably in the field of psychology or related fields. This would be the right choice for students who plan to pursue a career in psychological research or work directly with mental health patients as a psychotherapist or a counselor.

Usually, a dual master’s and PhD degree in psychology is a 5-6 year program of study. Students who want to enroll in this program should have completed a bachelor’s degree with sufficient coursework in psychology and statistics. During the dual degree program, they might have the option to select from a diverse range of courses.

Here are a some of the most common a student might get to take:

Neuroscience

Students will study and examine the nervous system and its effects on the psychology, emotions, and mental processes of human beings. The study of neuroscience will help you understand how the nervous system functions and the different ways in which it can affect the psychology and behavior of individuals.

2021 Dual Masters and PhD Programs in Psychology Online

In this course, you will also study the structure and development of the nervous system throughout the lifespan of the average human. Neuroscience is a broad field which includes various subcategories such as cognitive, behavioral, and clinical neuroscience, each of which studies a different aspect of the nervous system and its effects.

Developmental Psychology

In this course, you will examine the cognitive, social, and psychological changes and development that humans undergo throughout their lives. The key psychological transitions associated with the phases of human development will be investigated by students during the course.

You’ll also explore concepts such as the influence of genetics and the environment on the psychological development of an individual, how psychological changes occur, and much more. Designing and carrying out studies and research in the field of developmental psychology might also be a requirement for the course.

Statistical Methods for Behavioral and Social Sciences

This course is ideal for students who want to gain experience and training in the field of psychological research. Conducting empirical research, analyzing data obtained from experiments and factorial designs, model building, and designing randomized blocks for data collection will be some of the aspects of research and analysis included.

It might also cover subjects like multiple regression methods, analysis of covariance, repeated measures, statistical computing, and categorical data analysis through two-way tables. Students may learn to understand and interpret the data obtained through experiments and research in the social and behavioral sciences.

Social Psychology

Students will be able to study and examine the importance of social context and the influence of society vis-à-vis the emotions, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of individual human beings. The application of social psychology research to find solutions to real-world issues and problems will be emphasized and encouraged during this course.

Some of the subjects covered under the social psychology course are gender roles, persuasion and attitude, social influence and group behavior, the source of stereotyping and discrimination, attraction, altruism, and the urge for conformity. The major objective of the course is to help students understand the role of social interactions and social influence in the lives of individuals.

Master's in Sport and Exercise Psychology | Ball State University

Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal psychology seeks to understand the nature, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, obsessive disorders, addiction, schizophrenia, psychosis, etc. Students will learn how mental disorders are identified, classified, categorized, and treated and how new treatment methodologies are developed and implemented.

This course will also allow students to examine the clinical, experimental, and theoretical perspectives of mental abnormality and psychopathology. Therapeutic and pharmaceutical treatment methodologies for psychological conditions will also be studied.

For students who want to work at the highest levels of the field of psychology, a dual master’s and PhD program may be a good route. Student will have the chance to study neuroscience, developmental psychology, social psychology, and statistical methods, plus get research experience that might help them throughout their careers. Graduates of programs like these may find higher-paying and more influential positions in the field.

2021 Dual Masters and PhD Programs in Psychology Online

List of Combined Master’s and PsyD Programs

Earning a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree is an important educational step in becoming licensed to practice psychology. But for many people, just getting their Psy.D. won’t provide them with the specific training they want to practice in certain niche areas. And some PsyD programs include an M.A. or M.S. within the Psy.D. program by design, which many other students may prefer for academic reasons.

The good news for both groups is that there are several options for programs that combine master’s and other advanced degrees with Psy.D. training. Let’s take a look at these programs and important information students should know about each one.

Widener University — MBA/PsyD, MEd/PsyD, MCJ/PsyD

Chester, Pennsylvania 

Widener University has by far the most extensive options for students who want to pair Psy.D. education with training in another area. Not only does the school offer several degree pairings, but it also includes multiple focus areas that allow students to tailor their education specific to their career goals.

Here’s a look at what’s offered at Widener:

  • MBA/Psy.D.: Two possible tracks are offered that pair a Master of Business Administration with a Psy.D. One is a general MBA/Psy.D. path, while the other combines a Psy.D. and an MBA in healthcare management
  • MEd/Psy.D.: The combination Psy.D.-Master of Education has a programmatic focus on human sexuality education, preparing the graduate for a career as an educator, therapist or sexual health professional.
  • MCJ/Psy.D.: Pairing a Master of Criminal Justice degree with a Psy.D. can help prepare graduates for psychology jobs within legal settings.

University of St. Thomas, MA/PsyD

Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Psy.D. track at the University of St. Thomas includes an option for students who want to first complete a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology before earning direct admission to the school’s counseling psychology Psy.D.

Prospective students to the St. Thomas Psy.D. must have a master’s degree in counseling psychology before applying.

Loyola University (Maryland), MS/PsyD

Chicago, Illinois

Loyola University (Maryland) includes a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology that students earn midway through their second academic year in the Psy.D. program. Students who already have master’s degrees may be able to shorten their Psy.D. track at Loyola, but not all courses will transfer, so applicants need to do their due diligence.

John F. Kennedy University, MA/PsyD

Pleasant Hill, California 

A unique dual degree focus on sports psychology is one of the primary offerings at John F. Kennedy University. The school’s Master of Arts in Sport Psychology leads into a clinical Psy.D., allowing graduates to work in clinical settings with athletes. The degree is also offered in a hybrid format, further distinguishing it from the pack.

Appalachian State University, MA/PsyD

Boone, North Carolina

Appalachian State gives students a chance to earn a Master of Arts in Psychology en route to their Psy.D., and applicants who already have a master’s degree may be able to shorten the time it takes to earn their Psy.D. degree.

Joint PhD Programs

Another option for those who want to seek professional licensure in psychology is to pursue a Ph.D., or Doctor of Philosophy. This is a more traditional, academic-oriented degree, but for students hoping to complete a dual degree program, pairing another type of education with a Ph.D. may be more common since Ph.D. programs overall are more common than Psy.D. tracks.

Here’s a look at a few of the options out there for dual Ph.D. in psychology programs:

  • Drexel University: JD/PhD in Law & Psychology
  • University of Arizona: JD/PhD in Psychology
  • University of Nebraska: JD/PhD, Law-Psychology
  • University of Pennsylvania: JD/PhD in Psychology
  • University of Chicago: Joint PhD in Psychology and Business
  • NOVA Southeastern University: MBA/PhD in Psychology

Universities Offering Dual Masters and PhD in Psychology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer dual degree programs in Psychology online or in a hybrid format.DePaul University

DePaul University

DePaul University’s dual Masters and PhD in Psychology program allows students to gain the clinical knowledge and methodology practice to better understand diverse issues within society. With two focus areas to choose from, students can select the community pathway or the child route to help them achieve their goals.

DePaul University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Georgetown University

Georgetown University

Georgetown University’s dual degree in psychology allows learners to gain a masters degree and a PhD over 5 years through interdisciplinary studies.

Offering a choice of two concentrations, learners can specialize in human development and public policy or lifespan cognitive neuroscience. Research in social theories, methods, and action are part of the cornerstones of this program.

Georgetown also offers a variety of combined masters degree programs online or in a traditional classroom setting.

Georgetown University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

John F. Kennedy University

John F Kennedy University

John F. Kennedy University offers a groundbreaking experience in education by helping students acquire an MA in Sport Psychology and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology at the same time. This degree program prepares learners to work as clinical practitioners or to work with athletes on and off the field.

Kennedy University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Loyola University of Maryland

Loyola University of Maryland

Loyola University of Maryland allows students to combine a Masters and Doctorate in Psychology into one program that can be completed in 5 years, including a dissertation. LU’s dual program focuses on communication, diversity, ethics, clinical research, and many other standards to ensure students can show competency in this field.

Loyola University Maryland is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Portland State University

Portland State University

Obtaining a dual MA and Doctorate in Psychology from Portland State University gives students the necessary tools to confront the complex issues surrounding social difficulties in communities today.

This program focuses on research, methodology, and innovative solutions that can bring positive change in society. PSU’s program has five specializations and a small teacher to student ratio.

Portland State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University

The graduate program in psychology at Saint Louis University provides learners with the ability to gain their PhD while getting a masters degree. Students enrolled in this program will complete 30 credit hours in clinical psychology, 42 credit hours towards their doctoral degree, and a dissertation. There are several specializations to choose from at SLU.

Saint Louis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Alabama

University of Alabama

Learners looking to participate in the PhD and MPH dual program at the University of Alabama must apply to each program separately.

Once accepted, students will become immersed in scientific practice and coursework that focuses on the skills needed to excel in clinical psychology. Areas of concentration include child psychology, ethics and law, and clinical health.

The University of Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Southern California

University of Southern California

The University of Southern California offers a program that allows students to gain a Masters in Public Health and a Doctorate in Philosophy simultaneously.

This dual degree program blends clinical research and hands-on learning with society’s health strains. USC requires program students to complete the dissertation process and choose a specialization out of the three concentrations offered.

USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

University of St. Thomas

University of St Thomas

The MA with Direct Admission to the PsyD in Counseling Psychology program from the University of St. Thomas gives learners the opportunity to study the basis of psychological theories and counseling methods. At UST, students can take classes around their busy life by choosing courses on weekends, on nights, or during the day.

The University of St. Thomas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Widener University

Widener University

Widener University’s PsyD and MCJ dual program allows students to engage in practical learning and internships while obtaining a doctorate in psychology. Coursework, internships, and a research dissertation drives the learning process at WU. This dual program can qualify graduates to work and advocate in the criminal justice system.

Widener University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Conclusion

Earning a doctoral degree in psychology, whether a Psy.D. or Ph.D., is a huge commitment of time and energy. So if there’s a specific area in which you want to practice, it may pay to invest just a bit more time and energy (and probably money) into making sure that the degree you earn will give you the tools you need to succeed in a niche career. Dual-degree programs can be an important resource that goes way beyond just choosing a few electives.

PSYD, PHD, MASTERS PROGRAMS

  • Behavioral Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Counseling/Mental Health
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Educational Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology
  • General Psychology
  • Health Psychology
  • Industrial/Organizational
  • Marriage/Family Therapy
  • Social Psychology
  • Social Work

Psychology Careers & Salaries

Psychology Careers & Salaries

As a psychologist or counselor with a doctorate, you may work in private practices, mental health service organizations, businesses, industries, higher education institutions, and school systems.

Some psychologists work directly with clients to provide treatment for mental illnesses. Still others serve as school psychologists or school and career counselors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals with master’s and doctoral degrees in psychology may qualify for the following careers.

CareersAnnual Median Salaries
Training and Development Managers$115,640
Psychologists, All Other$105,780
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists$96,270
Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists$79,820
Postsecondary Psychology Teachers$78,180
Social and Community Services Managers$69,600
Survey Researchers$59,870
School and Career Counselors$58,120
Marriage and Family Therapists$51,340
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors$47,660

Once you’ve completed your master’s and PhD or PsyD degree in psychology, you may conduct independent research and serve as a psychology professor in universities. You may also qualify for managerial or supervisory positions.

For example, a community services manager coordinates and oversees the delivery of psychological services that support public well-being. These services may be offered through a nonprofit organization or government agency.

Psychology Dual Master’s/PhD Curriculum

In a dual degree program, courses may count toward both masters and doctoral degrees, with completion of the doctorate as the target culmination of graduate work.

Independent research, practicum experience, thesis, and dissertation completion may intersperse with academic coursework. Here is a list of sample courses you may find in a masters/PhD degree program:

  • Research Design and Statistical Analysis: You’ll learn to apply multivariate research designs in diverse, applied research settings, including mixed models, regression, and covariance analysis.
  • Developmental Psychology: You’ll explore established theories in social, emotional, and cognitive psychology, as applied to developmental stages, including infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
  • Methods and Analysis in Survey Research: This course is an overview of survey methods and analysis, including questionnaires, establishing validity and reliability, and the coding and analysis of data.
  • Cognitive Psychology: You’ll investigate the mental processes involved in decision making, problem solving, memory, language acquisition and comprehension, and pattern recognition.
  • Pedagogy of Psychology: You’ll learn effective teaching strategies and methods for engaging with students in psychology classes.
  • Psychology in the Workplace: You’ll explore established research and theories in applied psychology in industrial and business organizations.
  • Research in Psychology: You’ll design and implement original research in psychology under the supervision of faculty advisors.
  • Substance Abuse Treatment and Physiology: This course examines the physical, mental, and emotional effects of substance abuse on individuals, families, and society.
  • Family Therapy Approaches: You’ll investigate therapeutic approaches and develop the skills to provide interventions, such as cognitive and behavioral therapy, with children and families.
  • Forensic Psychology and the Law: This course examines the role of forensic psychology and the application of psychological principles in the criminal justice system.

This list represents only a small sample of the courses that may be included in a master’s/Ph.D. dual degree in psychology program.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD in Psychology?

psychologist with patients

To enter a dual masters and PhD or PsyD degree program, you don’t need to hold a previously completed masters degree. You may enter with a bachelors degree and earn the masters along the way toward completing a doctorate in psychology.

The term that is sometimes applied to this type of master’s degree is “en passant,” meaning that you earn your master’s in passing on the way to completing your doctoral degree.

Students who already hold a masters degree may enter a dual degree program, and their credits may be applied toward completion of the terminal degree. This may help reduce the time it takes to progress through the program and complete the PhD.

What Is the Difference Between a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology?

psychologist with a couple

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program in psychology focuses on preparing students to generate new knowledge through research.

Additionally, PhD candidates focus on preparation to teach psychology in colleges. Professionals who hold the PhD in psychology may also work in health services organizations, as school and career counselors, and as consultants in business and industry, making a psychology degree worth it for many students.

Alternatively, combined masters and PsyD programs online culminate in the Doctor of Psychology degree. PsyD programs focus on training candidates to apply scientific principles of psychology in the direct treatment of clients and patients.

Both types of psychology doctoral programs may prepare students for state licensure exams, and graduates from both PhD and PsyD programs may work as licensed, clinical psychologists.

Overview of Dual Master’s and Ph.D. Programs in Psychology

Students seeking a dual master’s/Ph.D in Psychology have a variety of options to consider, for instance they may earn a Master of Public Policy/Ph.D. in Psychology or a Master of Public Health/Ph.D. in Psychology – however, those interested in a clinical program could consider a Master of Science in Psychology/Doctor of Psychology program instead of a Ph.D.

The requirements to earn a dual master’s/Ph.D in Psychology can vary by school, but they usually require the completion of about 51 credits. The two degrees can be earned in three to five years, and students must complete a dissertation, qualifying exams, and graduate-level courses. A MS/Psy.D. program usually requires about 120 credits and clinical placements. Some common courses found in these dual programs include:

Research Methods in Psychology

The experimental designs that are used to study behavior are presented in a research methods class. Students may be able to form research questions and hypotheses. Additional topics that could be covered include internal and external validity, measurement processes, and sampling.

Research Design in Developmental Psychology

The methods used to study developmental psychology are presented in this class. This course could focus on the changes that occur as a person ages over time. Also, the experiments are designed to observe generational abnormalities in behavior.

Psychophysiology

A psychophysiology course covers the relationship between psychological states and physiological responses as well as the main psychological states: cognition, emotion, and learning. In addition, the course could cover hidden muscle actions and autonomic responses as well as the physiological measures that are used to study mental processes.

Advanced Human Development

The development of humans within a contextual environment is the focus of this advanced human development. Additional areas of focus could include the influences of neighborhoods, schools, and socioeconomic status on development. Several systems theories of development are often presented to the class.

Social and Emotional Development in Children

In this course, graduate students could study the theories of social relationship development in children, including moral development, temperament, and individualization. Influencers of development, such as parents, peers, and the local or global culture, are also analyzed.

Dual Master’s and PhD Programs in Psychology Admissions Requirements

To qualify for a dual master’s/Ph.D program in psychology, students must typically meet the requirements for each individual degree – which may include passing prerequisite departmental courses and submitting an application, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. Students might need to be accepted to the master’s degree program first, and then present their master’s thesis during the second year, which will be evaluated to see if the student can continue toward a doctorate.

Schools Offering Dual Master’s and PhD Programs in Psychology

There are several schools that offer a dual master’s and Ph.D. program in psychology. The following list will include schools that offer a dual master’s and Ph.D. in clinical psychology and also non-clinical combined master’s and Ph.D. programs in psychology.

  • Widener University: offers several combined master’s and Ph.D. programs in psychology. They offer a PsyD/MBA (business administration), PysD/MBA (healthcare management), PsyD/MEd(human sexuality education), and PsyD/MCJ (master of criminal justice). This program is offered on campus.
  • University of St. Thomas: offers a program with direct admission for students who earned a M.A. in counseling psychology in their program into the PsyD in counseling psychology that the school offers. These programs are offered on campus at the university.
  • John F. Kennedy University: offers a combined masters and clinical doctoral program in psychology. The M.A. is in sport psychology and the PsyD is in clinical psychology. This program offering is hybrid and on campus.

In summary, a master’s/Ph.D dual degree in psychology allows students to earn both degrees in a condensed period of time. Programs may cover topics in clinical psychology, public health and neuroscience; and students must typically complete both a master’s thesis and dissertation.

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