Doctoral Program(PhD) in Clinical Psychology
 

Program Description

Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences has been training a new generation of Clinical Psychologists that can competitively provide evidence-based interventions to diverse populations in different health and social contexts. During the past years, many research projects have been developed by faculty. Through these projects, students have had an opportunity to gain experience in the development of new psychological knowledge and in the adaptation and creation of psychological tests for use with Latino populations.

This scientific activity and the success of the PsyD Program provided the foundation for the creation of a PhD in Clinical Psychology which is the next step in achieving our main programmatic goals. The new PhD program will train students in two general areas of scientific inquiry; behavioral neuroscience and psychosocial / clinical research. The latter includes, but is not limited to, the following areas: health psychology, psychopathological conditions (depression, anxiety disorders, addictions, etc.), cultural adaptation of tests and test construction, among others.

Cost per credit is US$337.00. Other annual fees apply.

Classes are offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (daytime).

Classes begin in July.


Curriculum

The PhD Program in Clinical Psychology offers a five-year curriculum including:

  • 26 credits in Psychological Foundation courses

  • 30 credits in Clinical Foundation courses

  • 18 credits in research courses

  • 9 credits in elective courses


Students must complete:

  • A minimum of four semesters of Research Practicum

  • A minimum of one thousand one hundred hours of Clinical Practicum

  • A research project to fulfill doctoral dissertation requirement

  • A one year pre-doctoral internship program


Admission Requirements
 

  • Bachelor’s degree (BS/BA):
    The applicant must present evidence of the successful completion of a bachelor’s degree in a college level institution accredited by the PR Council of Education or by a US accrediting organization with a minimum of 15 credits in Psychology including the following courses:

    Course                                                                     Credits
    General Psychology                                                     3
    Developmental Psychology                                         3
    Abnormal Psychology (Psychopathology)                   3
    Experimental Psychology or
    Scientific Research                                                      3
    Statistics                                                                      3
     

  • GPA - minimum of 3.0 (on a four-point scale)

  • GRE –600 score (279 new score) or above or EXADEP- 500 score or above, no more than five years old, www.ets.org

  • Submit the following documents:

    • Official transcript from all institutions attended (undergraduate and graduate)

    • Three letters of recommendation written by professors or individuals familiar with the applicant’s professional work and skills using the format provided with the application form.

    • Certificate of No Penal Record (Criminal Background Check)

    • Application processing fee of US$100.00, non-refundable


Selection Criteria

In evaluating the applicants, emphasis is placed upon the following:
• Potential to work with individuals, analytical skills and understanding of ethical standards of the profession.
• Past experience in research projects or potential for the development of research skills.
• Academic achievement, motivation, and emotional stability.
• Writing skills - will be documented in the interview.
Upon acceptance, all students are required to submit the following:
• Written confirmation of acceptance and a non-refundable deposit of US$100.00 to secure the seat in the entering class.
• Physical Exam (using a form provided by the Admissions Office)
• Evidence of up to date immunization record (must include Varicella, Td Adult, MMR and three doses of Hepatitis B).
• Other documents will be notified as pertinent.


How to Apply

Application for Admission to the PhD in Clinical Psychology can also be obtained personally at the Admissions Office.

Deadline to submit a complete application: March 15


 

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