Doctor of Psychology
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The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree is a professional doctorate, which is earned through one of two established training models for Clinical Psychology. In the United States, the other doctorate-level degree in Clinical Psychology is the PhD.
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[edit] Background
In 1973, the PsyD degree was recognized by the Vail Conference on models of training in clinical psychology.[1] At this conference, it was argued that the field of psychology had grown to a degree warranting training persons explicitly in the clinical practice of psychology. While both the Ph.D. and Psy.D. models of training include basic science and a practical skills component, there are clear differences in relative emphases on the role of research versus clinical activity. Graduates of both training models are eligible for licensure in all states (licensing exams and renewal requirements are the same for both degrees). This is much like medicine where both the M.D. (allopathic) and D.O (osteopathic) are deemed acceptable training for professional practice.
[edit] Usage outside of the United States and Canada
In other countries, clinical psychology training has frequently been a separate qualification (e.g., Dip.Clin.Psych.) studied concurrently with a higher research degree (i.e., a masters or Ph.D.). Some universities, however, are replacing their traditional masters and diploma program with a Psy.D or D.Psych. The research component is less than a Ph.D., but greater than a masters. Thus, students considering teaching rather than practice will tend to opt for traditional Ph.D. based programs. Both the Doctor of Psychology and the Doctor of Philosophy programs confer additional status and the title of "doctor."
[edit] Controversies
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There is controversy regarding whether Psy.D. or Ph.D. training programs produce better clinicians. Graduates of Psy.D. programs typically spend more time in clinical placements but entrance requirements are generally lower for some Psy.D. programs compared with Ph.D. programs, especially for non-university affiliated programs. Additionally, graduates of some Psy.D. programs on average produce lower scores than Ph.D. graduates on licensing tests such as the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
[edit] References
PsyD graduates are given more clinical exposure and experience with assessment and therapy as they do not conduct research. This is the trade off and advantage they have that most people in traditional PhD psychology programs do not understand.
[edit] External links
- American Psychological Association Accredited Programs
- Appreciating the PsyD: The Facts, an article from Psi Chi, The National Honor Society in Psychology
- Online Psychology Degree, Listing of online psychology degrees.
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