Doctorate in Clinical Psychology – Go Beyond and Learn Mastery

At Northwest Nazarene University, we understand the importance of hands-on, real-world clinical experience in preparing students for a successful career in clinical psychology. Our Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) program offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience alongside their academic studies, ensuring they are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Psy.D. students will embark on a 4-year full-time academic residency requirement during the program, depending on their entry point. This rigorous educational component provides the foundational knowledge and theoretical understanding necessary for clinical practice. Students engage with a comprehensive curriculum covering various topics, including clinical psychology, assessment, therapy techniques and ethical considerations.

In addition to the academic residency, students will complete a full-time 1-year internship experience. This internship allows students to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings, working alongside experienced professionals in various clinical settings. Through this hands-on experience, we prepare students with valuable practical skills, research methods, professional development and therapeutic techniques.
The combination of academic residency and internship experience ensures that our students graduate with a well-rounded education integrating theory and practice. They are prepared to navigate the challenges and complexities of clinical work, understanding the importance of evidence-based approaches and ethical considerations in their practice. This practical training sets our graduates apart, giving them a competitive edge in their future careers, postdoctoral clinical training and professional practice.

At Northwest Nazarene University, we are dedicated to providing our students with a transformative and comprehensive education in clinical psychology. Hands-on, real-world clinical experience is essential to their professional growth and development. By choosing our Psy.D. program, you can expect to gain the practical skills and experience needed to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities through clinical psychology.

At Northwest Nazarene University, our faith-based perspective is intricately woven into our clinical psychology program’s curriculum and class content. True transformation happens when faith and psychology are integrated, creating a holistic approach to mental health care.

Throughout the program, students will encounter coursework that explores the intersection of faith and psychology, enabling them to understand how these two disciplines can work together to provide compassionate and effective care. Our faculty members—experienced practitioners and scholars—infuse their teaching with a faith-based perspective, incorporating biblical principles and ethical considerations into the curriculum.

In addition to the academic components, NNU’s Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) program includes a 4-year full time educational residency requirement, followed by a full-time 1-year internship experience. During these periods, students have opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings, working with diverse populations under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Our commitment to a faith-based perspective also extends beyond the classroom. At NNU, we foster a vibrant spiritual community where students can grow in their faith and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Through chapel services, small groups and spiritual development activities, students can integrate their faith with their clinical practice, recognizing the power of spirituality in the healing process.

By integrating faith into the curriculum and class content, NNU’s clinical psychology program equips students to become practitioner-scholars who view mental health care holistically, valuing individuals’ spiritual, emotional and psychological well-being. Our goal is to prepare graduates who are not only skilled clinicians but also compassionate caregivers who can make a positive impact within their communities.

At NNU, we believe that faith and psychology go hand in hand, and our curriculum reflects this belief. By choosing our clinical psychology program, you embark on a transformative journey that combines academic excellence, spiritual growth and practical experience, empowering you to serve others with empathy, professionalism and a deep understanding of the human experience.

Graduating from the Psy.D. program at Northwest Nazarene University opens up exciting career opportunities in clinical psychology. With a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge and practical experience, our graduates are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in various professional roles.

Upon completing the program, you can begin supervised practice under a licensed psychologist to obtain licensure, providing psychotherapy, psychological assessment and counseling psychology services to individuals, couples, families and groups. With additional education and training, you can specialize in neuropsychology, child psychology, correctional psychology, industrial-organizational psychology or clinical psychopharmacology. Clinical psychology can be applied in a multitude of directions that align with your professional goals. This specialization allows you to work closely with specific populations and tailor your approach to meet their needs.

Another avenue for graduates is engaging in research to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of clinical psychology. By conducting psychological research studies, publishing scholarly articles and presenting at conferences, you can influence the discipline’s future and contribute to evidence-based practices.

Teaching and training the next generation of psychologists is another rewarding path after graduating from the Psy.D. program. As a faculty member in a university or college setting, you can share your expertise, mentor aspiring psychologists and shape the future of the profession through education and training opportunities.

Our Psy.D. program graduates have diverse and dynamic career opportunities. You will have the flexibility to choose a path that aligns with your interests, values and aspirations. The field of clinical psychology offers endless possibilities for growth and impact, allowing you to forge a fulfilling and meaningful career.

At Northwest Nazarene University, we are committed to preparing our students for successful careers in clinical psychology. Our comprehensive curriculum, hands-on training and integration of faith and psychology provide a solid foundation for pursuing various career opportunities. By choosing our Psy.D. program, you embark on a transformative journey that equips you with the skills and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.