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Nicole
Student
Long Beach, California
1
Question
Updated
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What were some of the deciding factors between selecting a PhD in Clinical Psychology versus a PsyD in Clinical Psychology, vice versa?
I currently have a bachelor's degree in psychology, and will be attending a graduate program in the Fall to obtain my masters in psychological research. I have juggled the ideas of both a PsyD and PhD, and wanted to know if anyone else has had this same debate and what were some factors that made you lean towards one degree versus the other.
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2 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
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Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
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Karin’s Answer
Hi Nicole,
In psychology, the PsyD is geared towards hands-on clinical work along with research. The PhD focusses more on the academic research side. If you want to be a clinical psychologist, the PsyD is probably better suited. If you see yourself in academia, a PhD would be preferable.
I am not sure if there are any double-degree programs like they exist for physicians who can get an MD and PhD.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
In psychology, the PsyD is geared towards hands-on clinical work along with research. The PhD focusses more on the academic research side. If you want to be a clinical psychologist, the PsyD is probably better suited. If you see yourself in academia, a PhD would be preferable.
I am not sure if there are any double-degree programs like they exist for physicians who can get an MD and PhD.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1210
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Nicole,
That's a really good and significant question! It usually boils down to your long-term professional objectives and the kind of training experience you're looking for when deciding between a PhD and a PsyD in clinical psychology. Research is often the primary emphasis of PhD candidates, who may wish to work in academia, carry out clinical research, or mix teaching and practice. PhD programs are typically more competitive, frequently provide financing or stipends, and demand a strong dedication to research during the course of the program.
A PsyD, on the other hand, is usually more practice-oriented and intended for people who would prefer to concentrate more on clinical work with patients than on research. Early on, these programs frequently place a strong emphasis on practical instruction and first-hand clinical practice. Depending on the school, PsyD programs can be lengthier and more costly even though they might not require as much research.
The decision is often influenced by a number of factors, such as your level of enthusiasm for research, your desire to teach or publish, the amount of clinical practice you desire throughout training, the cost and funding opportunities of the program, and your preferred method of learning.
You're already gaining excellent experience that could help you in either direction because you're working for a master's degree in psychological research. Speaking with lecturers, qualified professionals, or current students from both degree programs can also help you figure out what suits you best.
Best wishes!
That's a really good and significant question! It usually boils down to your long-term professional objectives and the kind of training experience you're looking for when deciding between a PhD and a PsyD in clinical psychology. Research is often the primary emphasis of PhD candidates, who may wish to work in academia, carry out clinical research, or mix teaching and practice. PhD programs are typically more competitive, frequently provide financing or stipends, and demand a strong dedication to research during the course of the program.
A PsyD, on the other hand, is usually more practice-oriented and intended for people who would prefer to concentrate more on clinical work with patients than on research. Early on, these programs frequently place a strong emphasis on practical instruction and first-hand clinical practice. Depending on the school, PsyD programs can be lengthier and more costly even though they might not require as much research.
The decision is often influenced by a number of factors, such as your level of enthusiasm for research, your desire to teach or publish, the amount of clinical practice you desire throughout training, the cost and funding opportunities of the program, and your preferred method of learning.
You're already gaining excellent experience that could help you in either direction because you're working for a master's degree in psychological research. Speaking with lecturers, qualified professionals, or current students from both degree programs can also help you figure out what suits you best.
Best wishes!