What is the difference between Clinical Psychology and the Developmental, Cognitive, and Affective Sciences (DCAS) program?

Clinical psychology focuses on psychological factors involved in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental illness. The clinical psychology training program strives to integrate the science and practice of psychology, helping students to learn the research foundations for the field, and apply research findings to clinical settings. Is Clinical Psychology the best type of training for me?

The DCAS program at CWRU focuses on the training of developmental, cognitive, and affective sciences psychologists. The primary focus of the DCAS program is research. Most of the students who complete our program go into university research and teaching or research administration. The primary focus of the program is doing research with a faculty mentor. During training they learn the laboratory and statistical methods necessary for a successful research career.

What is the deadline for applying to the graduate program?

The application deadline for the Clinical program is December 1st of the year of admission.

Can I complete the program part-time, online, or long-distance?

The Clinical graduate program is offered full-time and in-person only.

How long will it take to get my PhD?

Clinical students typically receive their degrees in five to seven years, which includes the required year-long internship.

How many applications do you usually receive, and how many do you accept each year?

The Clinical applicant pool includes 150-300 students – four to six students enter the program each year.

Do all students receive financial aid?

Yes. All students receive full tuition coverage. Some research and clinical practica have an additional stipend provided. Individuals from diverse backgrounds may receive an additional fellowship. More information on financial aid can be found here.

Can I apply to the Clinical Ph.D. program if I have received a Master’s degree?

Yes. For students who already have a Master’s degree in Clinical psychology, transfer credits are assessed once an applicant is accepted and enrolled. A Master’s degree from another program may meet some of the requirements of our Ph.D. program. There is no guarantee, however, that the courses taken at another college or university will transfer, and a thesis completed elsewhere may not meet the requirements of our program. If you have your Master’s degree in a field other than Clinical Psychology, you must receive your Master’s degree through our program before you receive your Ph.D.

Will I receive a Master’s degree in addition to the Doctoral degree?

Students without Master’s degrees will earn a Master’s en route to the doctorate.

Can I apply to start graduate school in the Spring?

All Ph.D. programs in the Psychological Sciences Department accept students for Fall admission only.

How do I apply?

Click here to learn more about our Clinical program.

Who do I contact for more information?

Please visit faculty members’ web pages and contact the faculty member with whom you are interested in working.

Am I required to take the TOEFL?

We require the TOEFL from all candidates who complete their undergraduate degree at an institution where English is not the medium of instruction. For an international applicant who studied at a university where the language of instruction was English, this must be communicated on the official transcripts for the TOEFL requirement to be waived.

I don’t have my BA in psychology. Can I still apply?

Due to the highly competitive nature of the Psychology Ph.D. programs, a bachelor’s degree in psychology is highly recommended.

What institution/department code should I provide when I take the TOEFL?

The institution code is 1105. There is NO department code.

I just submitted my application. What happens next?

As we receive application materials, we will update your Hobson’s application area. Clinical faculty will review completed clinical applications from December through early January. In January, the faculty will meet decide who to invite for interviews (approximately 30-40 of the top qualified applicants), and interviews will take place in February. Please DO NOT contact the department via phone for an update on your application.

I Just Got an Interview for a Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program! What do I do now?

Click here for some good advice.