LET US HELP
Welcome to Capella
Select your program and we'll help guide you through important information as you prepare for the application process.
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Doctor of Psychology
Reach the pinnacle of your career while helping others develop their potential. The online PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Capella deepens your understanding of human behavior and helps you prepare for state licensure eligibility.
The program includes coursework, face-to-face residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research to help you put theory into practice. A support team of licensure experts, advisors, and teaching assistants will help you stay on track for graduation.
Classes start April 8
Use the code MSFALL to waive the $50 application fee.
At a glance
- Online and in-person
- 14 Core courses
- 30 Max transfer credits
- 2 Elective courses
- 6 Residency courses
- 3 Practicum courses
- 4 Internship courses
- 1 Dissertation Preparation course
- Clinical dissertation
Explore clinical psychology courses
- This degree requires a total of 135 coursework credits
- You'll need to complete 14 core courses, 2 elective courses, 6 residency courses, 3 practicum courses, 4 internship courses, one dissertation preparation course and one clinical dissertation.
| PSY8220 |
Advanced Psychopathology
In this course, learners examine theory and research associated with major psychological disorders, from the most common diagnostic concerns to dual diagnoses, comorbidity, and psycho-medical issues. Learners examine the concepts of psychopathology throughout the lifespan, then transition from studying DSM-5 concepts and terminology to evaluating clinical assessment and treatment situations. In particular, learners familiarize themselves with ways to apply theoretical concepts in a professional clinical setting while displaying sensitivity to ethical and diversity issues. Other course topics include the issues of “empirically validated” versus “evidence based” practice, the interaction of social and biological factors in etiology and treatment, and the interaction between complex Axis I and II disorders. For PsyD learners only. |
5 quarter credits |
|---|---|---|
| PSY-R8203 * |
Psychological Assessment 1: Cognitive, Achievement, and Adaptive Behavior
In this residency, learners practice assessment administration for cognitive, achievement, and adaptive behavior through coursework and a face-to-face residency. During the face-to-face residency, learners assess client behavior through the administration, scoring, and interpretation of standardized tests, including current versions of intelligence, achievement, adaptive behavior, and executive functioning assessments. Prerequisite(s): Concurrent registration in PSY-R8200. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
5 quarter credits |
| PSY-R8212 * |
Theory and Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Psychology
In this residency, learners strengthen their understanding of the application of theory and use of advanced skills and techniques through coursework and a face-to-face residency. During the face-to-face residency, learners participate in case discussions, roleplay, and group exercises associated with effective treatment planning and develop treatment plans using empirically supported treatments, knowledge of treatment ethics, and respect for individual differences. Learners engage in practice activities that address empirically supported crisis intervention, social justice issues with diverse populations, and opportunities to self-evaluate and monitor skills and attitudes. Prerequisite(s): PSY-R8209 and concurrent registration in PSY-R8215. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
5 quarter credits |
| PSY8251 * |
Neuropsychological Assessment
In this course, learners study current theories, research, and methods used in the neuropsychological assessment of various mental disorders in adults, children, and adolescents. Learners review various neuropsychological screening and assessment instruments, clinical interviewing methods, and neuropsychological test batteries that are commonly used in the evaluation and assessment of neuropsychological disorders. Learners are introduced to functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, as well as to common syndromes and disease processes that can impair the human brain and central nervous system functioning. In addition, learners investigate the role of emotional functioning and effort within the context of the overall neuropsychological assessment process and gain an understanding of how to write a neuropsychological report. For PsyD learners only. Prerequisite(s): PSY-R8206. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
5 quarter credits |
| PSY8371 |
Strategies of Clinical Supervision and Consultation
This course provides an overview of the theories, functions, and methods of clinical supervision, consultation, and advocacy. In particular, learners examine various styles of supervision, consultation, and advocacy; supervisory, consultative, and advocacy relationships; contractual issues; and ethical and legal issues associated with providing these services. Learners also review supervision, consultation, and advocacy research; apply their findings to relevant service delivery topics; and develop their own theories and approaches to clinical supervision. For PsyD Clinical Psychology and PsyD School Psychology learners only. There is a residency requirement associated with this course for PsyD Clinical Psychology learners. |
5 quarter credits |
What you'll learn
Our PsyD in Clinical Psychology equips you with comprehensive clinical skills based on the theoretical and scientific foundations of psychology, from assessment to intervention. It is designed to help you pursue licensure, subject to the requirements in your state.
On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Demonstrate the attitudes, behaviors, and foundational knowledge required for the practice of psychology
- Act consistently with the ethics and laws pertaining to clinical practice
- Integrate science and theory into the practice of psychology
- Understand, respect, and apply issues of diversity in the practice of psychology
- Provide effective and appropriate psychological intervention to clients
- Accurately select, administer, score, and interpret psychological tests
- Employ research as a means to advance the science and practice of psychology
Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.
How much does the Doctor of Psychology cost?
The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.
GuidedPath
A more structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–2 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term
$555 per credit, 135 coursework credits, 30 max transfer credits
Tuition breakdown
Program Phases
Coursework
$555 Per quarter credit
135 coursework credits; Dissertation is additional
Coursework
What is coursework?$555
Practicum and Internship
—
Included in coursework costs; additional expenses such as site-required expenses not included. Minimum of 1,000 supervised practicum hours; minimum of 2,000 supervised internship hours
Practicum and Internship
What is practicum?—
Included in coursework costs; additional expenses such as site-required expenses not included. Minimum of 1,000 supervised practicum hours; minimum of 2,000 supervised internship hours
Residency
—
Included in coursework costs, 6 required. 4 one-week sessions and 2 two-week sessions. Travel, lodging, meals and other expenses not included.
Residency
—
Included in coursework costs, 6 required. 4 one-week sessions and 2 two-week sessions. Travel, lodging, meals and other expenses not included.
Clinical Dissertation
$2,780 Per quarter
Clinical Dissertation
$2,780
Per quarter
Fees
Resource kit fee
$175
Per quarter, coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Resource kit fee
$175
Per quarter, coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Application fee
$50 One-time fee
Application fee
$50
One-time fee
Tuition and program length are unique to you
Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:
- The program specialization you choose
- Scholarships and finances
- Prior coursework
- Transfer credits
- Employer and/or military benefits
- Amount of time spent working on practicum
- Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
- Complexity of your dissertation
- Academic performance
- School/work/life balance
- Unexpected life events
About cost scenarios
The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2023–24 Capella tuition rates, and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing information is current as of January 1, 2023. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price.
To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.
Cost scenarios
Completes dissertation in 4 quartersComplete each milestone at the pace of the fastest 25% of students |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: $555/credit 19 quarters |
$74,370.00 |
| Dissertation Preparation 1 quarter |
$2,780.00 |
| Dissertation: $2,780/quarter 4 quarters |
$11,120.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$88,270.00 |
| Resource kit fee: $175 19 quarters |
$3,325.00 |
| Application fee: $50 one-time fee |
$50.00 |
|
Est. Total 24 quarters |
$91,645.00 |
Completes dissertation in 6 quartersComplete each milestone at the pace of the median 50% of students |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: $555/credit 19 quarters |
$74,370.00 |
| Dissertation Preparation 1 quarter |
$2,780.00 |
| Dissertation: $2,780/quarter 6 quarters |
$16,680.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$93,830.00 |
| Resource kit fee: $175 19 quarters |
$3,325.00 |
| Application fee one-time fee |
$50.00 |
|
Est. Total 26 quarters |
$97,205.00 |
Completes dissertation in 8 quartersComplete each milestone at the pace of the slowest 75% of students |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: $555/credit 19 quarters |
$74,370.00 |
| Dissertation Preparation 1 quarter |
$2,780.00 |
| Dissertation: $2,780/quarter 8 quarters |
$22,240.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$99,390.00 |
| Resource kit fee: $175 19 quarters |
$3,325.00 |
| Application fee one-time fee |
$50.00 |
|
Est. Total 28 quarters |
$102,765.00 |
Get the details
Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees?
Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our accreditations and recognitions.
Preparing for licensure
It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.
What are the PsyD admission requirements?
Applicants must provide the following information for admission to Capella programs and specializations:
- A master’s degree in psychology or a related field from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution.
- Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
Additional requirements for Doctor of Psychology programs are:
- 3 letters of recommendation completed by professionals who can assess your aptitude for doctoral education in psychology
- An extended goal statement and writing sample.
- Your résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
- After submitting admission materials, applicants may be required to take part in a faculty interview for assessment of professionalism and academic fit to the program
International Student Requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.
What can you do with a PsyD in Clinical Psychology degree?
Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PsyD in Clinical Psychology.
Related job titles to explore*
- Psychologist
- Clinical psychologist
- Clinical manager
- Adjunct instructor or part-time psychology faculty
- Full-time psychology faculty
- Clinical director
- Research psychologist
- Clinical therapist
Employment settings to explore
- Hospital—inpatient or outpatient
- Community college
- Land-based or online college or university
- Community counseling center
- Social service agency
- Government—local, state, federal
- Health care clinic
- Mental health clinic
- Consulting firm
- Private practice
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.
Articles and resources
Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.
Helping Professions Program Guide
Wondering about the differences between PhDs and professional doctorates? What are the unique features of online and traditional doctoral programs? Read on to learn more and find the right program for you.
What’s It Like to Be a Doctoral Student?
Get details on Capella University programs in counseling and family therapy, psychology, social work and human services, and applied behavior analysis. Compare learning formats, financing options, and more.