PhD in Clinical Psychology (PhD)

The Wright Institute Graduate School of Psychology has made Berkeley its setting for graduate education in psychology. Its current academic work is organized around two professional programs: the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology and the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. The school’s community includes faculty, students, alumni, and staff whose work covers clinical care, expressive arts therapy, forensic investigation, and public discussion of conditions in jails and prisons.

The Clinical Psychology PsyD is based at 2728 Durant Avenue in Berkeley. The Counseling Psychology MA is based at 1000 Dwight Way, also in Berkeley. The counseling program prepares students to function in a wide range of mental health settings with individuals, families, and groups varying in age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. A two-year weekend master's format is available, giving the program a schedule designed around weekend study.

International applicants should distinguish carefully between the two admissions routes. The school accepts online applications for the PsyD in Clinical Psychology and the MA in Counseling Psychology, with separate application requirements for each program. Applicants do not need to complete an application in one sitting. The two programs operate from different Berkeley addresses, so students should confirm which location and admissions information apply to their intended course of study. The school also provides applicant login access and hosts open houses for prospective students.

The programme trains students in clinical psychology with a strong emphasis on culturally informed practice and evidence-based interventions. Students engage in sequential coursework and structured practicum experiences across three years. The curriculum integrates theory, research, and clinical application through required courses in psychopathology, assessment, and intervention. A key feature is the requirement to complete three years of practicum placements in the institute's clinics or approved community agencies.

Focus areas include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Multicultural Awareness, Neuropsychological Assessment, Child Assessment, Empirically Supported Treatments.

The programme requires a total of 120 credits, distributed across coursework, practicum, and dissertation. Students complete four courses per trimester over three years, followed by two years dedicated to dissertation and internship. Coursework includes required classes in psychopathology, assessment, intervention, and research methods.

Graduates pursue careers as licensed clinical psychologists in private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, and specialty clinics.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Required documents include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. GRE scores are not required.

The programme totals about 120 credit hours. On-campus, full-time, three-year curriculum followed by two years of dissertation and internship; trimester-based delivery. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes.