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Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology Program (California)

APA & WSCUC Accredited

An accredited program in a reputable, private, nonprofit university.

Finish in 5 to 7 years

Average completion time

Next start date October

Year-round enrollment

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Home » Programs » Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology Program (California)

Make a Positive Impact on the Mental Wellness of Diverse Communities.

Degree:

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology Program (California)

Application:

$0 application fee. No essays/exams.

The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology Program (California) at National University’s JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences prepares you to make an impact in the lives of those in need. Our Program provides the highest level of training in the field of clinical psychology, equipping you with the necessary tools to serve communities in vital roles such as clinician, program administrator, evaluator, consultant, educator, and scholar.

The PsyD Program’s mission is to train practitioner-scholars who will provide comprehensive and culturally sensitive services to a variety of communities. This mission is embraced by our diverse faculty, staff, and student community. Our particular focus on multicultural and diversity competence sets us apart from other PsyD programs. Though NU’s Program is delivered in-person, in-person at the Pleasant Hill campus, upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the national licensing exam in professional psychology.

While attention to culture and context are woven through every course, students may also choose to complete specialized coursework in one of several concentration areas, such as forensic/correctional psychology, neuropsychology, or integrated health psychology. NU’s program operates on a traditional academic quarter system, and all classes are held in person at the JFK SOPSS campus in Pleasant Hill, CA. Students must reside in Northern California, as this Program is normally delivered in person, on-site, at the Pleasant Hill campus.

As of March 2024, NU’s Doctor in Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology Program has been awarded a 10-year accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA). National University is regionally accredited by WSCUC.

Degree Requirements

To receive the PsyD degree, students must meet the following requirements:

National University awards credit in quarter units, with each academic year divided into four 12-week quarters. 

Each quarter is made up of three 4-week classes, with one class per month. Under the current policy, 4.5 units of credit are awarded for courses.

  • After admission to the PsyD Program, all academic requirements must be completed in residence, except where transfer credit units have been awarded
  • Completion of the 180 quarter units required by the Program
  • A full-time load of 36 units must be carried for a minimum of one year, preferably in year one
  • A minimum grade of B- is required in each course applied to meeting degree requirements
  • An overall grade-point average of 3.0 must be achieved in all work for the PsyD Program
  • The Clinical Readiness Examination (1st year) and the Clinical Proficiency Examination (3rd year) must be passed
  • The following professional training must be completed and documented: Ethnographic Placement (1st year), Beginning Practicum (2nd year), Advanced Practicum (3rd year), and Internship (after all coursework has been completed)
  • Thirty sessions of personal psychotherapy must be completed (preferably prior to Internship)
  • The dissertation must be successfully completed and defended (preferably prior to Internship)
  • All Program requirements must be completed within eight calendar years of matriculation

After admission to the PsyD Program, all academic requirements must be completed in residence, except where transfer credit units have been awarded.

Year One

46 Quarter Units

12 Quarter Units

PSD7036 IPS 1 Multicult. Foundations (5)

PSD7011 Clinical Interviewing Skills (4)

PSD7015 Psychopathology I & Lab (3)

11 Quarter Units

PSD7037 IPS 1 Multicult. Integration (5)

PSD7141 Ethical & Legal Issues Psych (3)

PSD7016 Psychopathology II & Lab (3)

12 Quarter Units

PSD7038 IPS 1 Multicult. Tx Approaches (5)

PSD7122 Psychodynamic Theory & Applic (3)

PSD7227 Human Development (4)

11 Quarter Units

PSD7114 Psychometrics: The Basics of Assessment (2)

PSD7009 Group Clinical Skills (2)

PSD7123 Cognitive Behavioral Theory (3)

PSD7124 Family Systems Theory & Applic (3)

PSD7050 The Developing Psychologist (1)

Year Two

42 Quarter Units + 2 Elective Units

11 Quarter Units

PSD7136 IPS 2 Applied Diagnosis (4)

PSD7115 Assessment I & Lab (4)

PSD7107 Biological Bases of Behavior (3)

11 Quarter Units

PSD7137 IPS 2 Case Formulation (4)

PSD7116 Assessment II & Lab (4)

PSD7151 Research Methods & Stats I (3)

11 Quarter Units

PSD7138 IPS 2 Informed Tx Planning (4)

PSD7117 Assessment III & Lab (4)

PSD7250 Research Methods & Stats II (3)

9 Quarter Units + 2 Elective Units

PSD7108 Cognitive & Affective Bases (3)

PSD7131 Psych & Treatment Subst Abuse (3)

PSD7251 Qualitative Research (3)

Electives (2)

Year Three

29 Quarter Units + 10 Elective Units

9 Quarter Units + 1 Elective Units

PSD7236 IPS 3 Int Case Concept/Tx Plan (4)

PSD7252 Dissertation Proposal I (2)

PSD7180 Psychology of Trauma (3)

Electives (1)

9 Quarter Units + 1 Elective Units

PSD7237 IPS 3 Clinical Communication (4)

PSD7253 Dissertation Proposal II (2)

PSD7160 Psychopharmacology (3)

Electives (1)

8 Quarter Units + 2 Elective Units

PSD7238 IPS 3 Prof Dev/Lifelong Learn (4)

PSD7254 Dissertation Proposal III (1)

PSD7104 Social & Cultural Bases Behavr (3)

Electives (2)

3 Quarter Units + 6 Elective Units

PSD7601 Psych Career Skills Building (1)

PSD7110 Integrated Foundationl Science (2)

Electives (6)

Year Four

9 Quarter Units + 6 Elective Units + 9 Internship Units

3 Quarter Units + 2 Elective Units

PSD7215 Foundations Prof Consultation (3)

PSD7331 Externship (1 elective credit)

Electives (1)

3 Quarter Units + 2 Elective Units

PSD7230 Fundamentals of Clinical Supervision (3)

PSD7331 Externship (1 elective credit)

Electives (1)

3 Quarter Units + 2 Elective Units

PSD7003 History & Systems (3)

PSD7331 Externship (1 elective credit)

Electives (1)

9 Internship Units

PSD7400 Internship (9)

Year Five

27 Internship Units

9 Internship Units

PSD7400 Internship (9)

9 Internship Units

PSD7400 Internship (9)

9 Internship Units

PSD7400 Internship (9)

PSD7401 Part-time Internship
Only if you began your internship year with the part-time internship course.

Total 180 units: 126 core units + 18 elective units + 36 internship units

Doctor of Clinical Psychology (California), Trauma Psychology

The Trauma Concentration provides education and training for students who are interested in working with individuals and communities impacted by trauma. Coursework in this concentration offers didactic and experiential training in the utilization of trauma-informed approaches to assess and treat clients.  Students have an opportunity to learn about multiple aspects of trauma, including adverse childhood experiences (ACE), historical and intergenerational trauma, crisis trauma, racial trauma, vicarious trauma, and more.  Classroom learning has applications to subsequent clinical settings.

Learn More

Doctor of Clinical Psychology (California), Neuropsychology

This concentration provides students who are interested in pursuing a career in Clinical Neuropsychology an opportunity to receive additional training in the classroom and in a clinical setting in neuropsychological assessment and neurorehabilitation, as well as opportunities to work closely with practicing neuropsychologists in the area. The concentration is in compliance with the Houston Conference Resolutions which define the educational standards and training required for practice in professional clinical neuropsychology. The concentration is also designed to facilitate student entrance into APA accredited internships with rotations in clinical neuropsychology and integrated healthcare settings. For the specific requirements for applying to this concentration, please contact the Academic Program Director for the concentration.

Learn More

Doctor of Clinical Psychology (California), Integrated Healthcare

The Integrated Healthcare Concentration provides students who are interested in pursuing a career in integrated healthcare, integrated behavioral health, or integrated primary care, an opportunity to receive additional training in the classroom and in a clinical setting utilizing an integrated healthcare approach to managing acute and chronic illnesses. Students have the opportunity to train in a team setting with medical, nursing, and social work professionals. The training in this concentration is in compliance with the Interprofessional Practice and Education (IPE) guidelines of Division 38 of the APA, as well as the AHRQ Academy for Integrating Behavioral Health and Primary Care. The concentration is also designed to facilitate student entrance into APA accredited internships with rotations in integrated healthcare and primary care settings. For the specific requirements to enroll in this concentration, please contact the Academic Program Director for the concentration.

Learn More

Doctor of Clinical Psychology (California), Correctional and Forensic Psychology

Forensic and Correctional Psychologists are one of the fastest growing areas of employment in the field of psychology. The Correctional/Forensic Concentration is designed to provide students with foundational discipline-specific knowledge and focused clinical training for those interested in a career as a correctional or forensic psychologist.

Learn More

Career Outlook

A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology (California) degree opens doors in a variety of industries, including health care, social assistance, public administration, and professional, scientific, technical and educational services, among others.

  • Top Jobs in this field
  • Median Salary (USA)
  • JOB Openings (USA)
  • Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
  • $97,669 avg. salary (USA)
  • 7,147 job openings (past yr.) past year
Assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview, and psychological tests. Help individuals with distress or maladjustment understand their problems through their knowledge of case history, interviews with patients, and theory. Provide individual or group counseling services to assist individuals in achieving more effective personal, social, educational, and vocational development and adjustment. May design behavior modification programs and consult with medical personnel regarding the best treatment for patients.
Median Salary:
$97,669 annual +103% above US average
Job Openings:
7,147 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $47,013
  • Medium
    $97,669
  • High
    $181,727

Most desired skills

  1. Psychology
  2. Clinical Psychology
  3. Mental Health
  4. Psychotherapy
  5. Psychological Evaluations
  6. Treatment Planning
  7. Administrative Support

Top companies hiring for this role

  • LifeStance Health
  • Headway
  • Unclassified
  • Thriveworks
  • Sondermind
  • Guideline Healthcare
  • Senior Care Therapy
  • School Psychologists
  • $84,927 avg. salary (USA)
  • 5,129 job openings (past yr.) past year
Diagnose and implement individual or schoolwide interventions or strategies to address educational, behavioral, or developmental issues that adversely impact educational functioning in a school. May address student learning and behavioral problems and counsel students or families. May design and implement performance plans, and evaluate performance. May consult with other school-based personnel.
Median Salary:
$84,927 annual +76% above US average
Job Openings:
5,129 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $58,841
  • Medium
    $84,927
  • High
    $133,058

Most desired skills

  1. School Psychology
  2. Psychology
  3. Individualized Education Programs (IEP)
  4. Special Education
  5. Intervention Plans
  6. Mental Health
  7. Crisis Intervention

Top companies hiring for this role

  • Unclassified
  • Stepping Stones
  • Presence
  • Spindle
  • Bilingual Therapies
  • Special Education Therapy
  • Aya Education Fund

Program Learning Outcomes

Learn the key skills to help you excel in your field of study.

  • Develop expertise in the integration of science and Health Service Psychology practice.
  • Manage ethical issues in accordance with APA Ethical Principles, applicable laws, and relevant Health Service Psychology standards and guidelines.
  • Integrate awareness and knowledge of individual and cultural diversity in the conduct of Health Service Psychology roles.
  • Cultivate professional values, attitudes and behaviors that are consistent with Health Service Psychology standards.
  • Support effective interpersonal communication through written and oral Health Service Psychology language and concepts.
  • Develop competence in conducting evidence-based and contextually appropriate assessment consistent with the scope of Health Service Psychology.
  • Implement evidence-based and contextually appropriate interventions consistent with the scope of Health Service Psychology.
  • Incorporate Health Service Psychology supervision models and practices in professional situations.
  • Incorporate Health Service Psychology consultation models and practices in interaction with clients and other stakeholders.
  • Integrate understanding of the history, foundational science, and research principles that underlie the field of Health Service Psychology.

Hear From Our Faculty

Watch our video to hear Program Chair Dr. Doug Haldeman discuss the Program and what you can expect.

woman smiling at man taking notes

Admissions

Next start date: October

Year-round enrollment

Transfer Students Welcome

More about transferring to NU.

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.

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Scholarships and Financial Aid

National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.

Accreditations

WASC Senior College and University Commission logo

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

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Why National University?

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.

Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.

headshot of Francisco, class of 2016

“My professors were available and helped accommodate students whether it be for personal reasons, guidance throughout the program, or providing time for students to ask questions. I was given guidance to achieve my goals.”

Stephanie S.,

Class of 2023

What makes a degree
with National University unique?

Free Tutoring Sessions

Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost — empowering your learning.

Online and In-Person

Flexibility meets quality education with our online and in-person learning options.

24/7 Support

Get assistance anytime, anywhere with our round-the-clock support services.

Military Friendly

Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family. Military and Veteran Admissions.

Mentoring Network

Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.

Transfer Students Welcome

NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.

Accelerate Your Career With NU

At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.

Our network of 240,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.

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FAQs

A Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree opens doors in a variety of industries, including health care, social assistance, public administration, and professional, scientific, technical and educational services, among others.

If you’re looking for a program founded on the principles of social justice, diversity, and inclusion and emphasizes multicultural competence, NU’s PsyD degree can prepare you to sit for the national licensing exam for professional practice. Once you’ve earned your doctorate, you’ll be qualified to pursue a position in a field expected to grow by about 8% by 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.* 

NU’s PsyD program focuses on preparing you with the knowledge and skills employers in this field actively seek, including competence in leadership, scheduling, adaptability, research, management, communications, teaching, planning, operations, coordinating, consulting, problem solving, and mentorship. With these qualifications, you’ll be in position to pursue positions** like:

  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist
  • Clinical Sport Psychologist
  • Neuropsychologist
  • Forensic/Correctional Psychologist
  • Health Psychologist
  • School Psychologists
  • Industrial/Organizational Psychologist
  • Psychological Consultant
  • Program Director
  • Pediatric Psychologist

*SOURCE: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5

*SOURCE: Emsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/ (Report viewed: April 21, 2022). DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for Informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.

At National University, our dedicated faculty have expertise in working with diverse populations, as well as in the specific subject matter of their courses. Our educators include leaders within APA and other professional organizations, pioneers in fields such as cultural, LGBTQ+, disability psychology, and social justice advocates. 

Our program maintains a 8-to-1 core student to faculty ratio, ensuring that class sizes are small and that students establish relationships with mentors that continue throughout their doctoral program and beyond. Each PsyD student has a core faculty advisor to help them navigate the program and develop their professional identities.

Earning a PsyD degree can help you further your career in the field of psychology and fulfill your desire to make a positive impact in your community. You’ll also be well compensated for the impact you’ll have on the mental wellness of the communities where you choose to work; the Bureau of Labor Statistics states the median annual pay for psychologists was $81,040 in, May 2021 and climbs all the way to $133,890 for the top 10% in the field.*

Job prospects are best for those who have a doctoral degree in an applied specialty. Most psychologists also need a license. NU’s PsyD degree prepares students to serve their communities in a variety of vital roles, including:

  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Counseling Psychologist
  • Post-secondary Psychology Teacher
  • Consultant

*SOURCE: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-5

PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology, and a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. Training for PsyD students focuses more on clinical work, while PhD students tend to spend more time on research, following the scientist-practitioner model. The PhD also has a more rigorous and lengthier dissertation process involved.

Most PsyD programs can be completed in five to seven years, including an internship.

According to Salary.com, the median salary for a doctorate level psychologist in California earns $124,760 as of March 28, 2023. However, the typical range is between $113,419 and $138,651.*

*SOURCE: Salary.com, Psychologist — Ph.D. Salary in California, on the internet at https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/psychologist-ph-d-salary/ca (viewed April 2023)

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a clinical psychologist helping others overcome mental health challenges, then yes, a PsyD is worth the money, as this degree provides the training and skills necessary to do so. Clinical psychology is considered a well-paying and personally rewarding, admirable profession.

Yes, individuals who hold a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) degree have earned a doctoral-level degree and are entitled to use the title “Doctor.”

No, a PsyD is not necessarily “higher” than a PhD. Both degrees require extensive study and research, but the emphasis is different. A PhD in psychology is focused more on research and experimentation, while a PsyD is focused more on clinical practice.

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

Notice

The Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) Program is currently accredited by APA. Questions about APA accreditation can be addressed at:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation
750 First St, NE Washington, DC 20002-4242
Phone: (202) 336-5979
Email: [email protected]
Web: accreditation.apa.org

National University is regionally accredited by WSCUC. Questions about WSCUC accreditation can be addressed at:

985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100
Alameda, CA 94501

Phone: 510-748-9001

Our students are strongly encouraged to complete their internship at an APA-accredited site. Students are required to use the APPIC (Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers) system for application to internships and a minimum of 80% of student applications must be submitted to APA-accredited sites.

In the United States, each state makes its own rules regarding the educational requirements for licensure of psychologists. As such, requirements for professional licensure and certification can vary markedly by state. The JFK School of Psychology at National University, Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology Program meets the educational degree completion requirements for licensure in the state of California as a Licensed Psychologist.

The curriculum requirements of the PsyD Program enable students to sit for the National Psychology Licensing Exam (EPPP). Completion of the PsyD Program allows the student to sit for the EPPP in any state, provided that all curricular requirements are satisfied.

We advise you to contact your state licensing and certification body to ensure the degree will meet requirements for licensure in the state in which you seek to be licensed. For licensing board contact information and approval status, please see the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards website. For all students, applicants, or prospective students seeking licensure in any state, please review the chart below outlining the University’s determination about the program’s curriculum and how it relates to the state educational requirements for licensure or certification in that respective state.

PROGRAM MEETS EDUCATIONAL REQUIRMENTSPROGRAM DOES NOT MEET EDUCATIONAL REQUIRMENTSCANNOT BE CONFIRMED IF PROGRAM MEETS EDUCATIONAL REQUIRMENTS
California All other states, including the District of Columbia and the US protectorates, as defined in 34 CFR §600.2.

It is strongly encouraged that students, applicants, and prospective students determine any additional (i.e., non-educational) requirements for licensure in the state in which they seek to be licensed. Many licensure boards require more than successful degree completion to obtain a license, such as completion of an examination(s), test(s), background check(s), internship/practicum hours, and other requirements determined by the respective state board. It is the responsibility of the student completing the licensure program to check with the respective state licensing board(s) for the most recent information, rules and requirements.

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