PhD in Clinical Psychology

Lakehead University, with campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia, Ontario, offers a welcoming, student-centred experience focused on applied learning and community engagement. Founded in 1965, Lakehead enrolls nearly 10,000 students and provides a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, engineering, business, health and social sciences. The university is recognized for combining strong research with experiential learning opportunities and a commitment to Indigenous education.

Lakehead’s strengths include interdisciplinary research, hands-on labs, co-op placements and community-based projects that prepare students for practical careers. Faculty members emphasize mentorship and small-group teaching, enabling closer interaction and tailored academic support. The university also promotes sustainability initiatives and integrates Indigenous perspectives across curricula, creating a diverse learning environment that values multiple ways of knowing.

Campus life in Thunder Bay and Orillia offers a balance of outdoor recreation, cultural events and student services, with supports for international students such as orientation, advising and academic resources. Affordable living costs and strong campus communities help newcomers adapt and thrive. Applicants should highlight relevant experience and interest in applied learning, and investigate scholarships, work-study options and co-op pathways to enhance both study and career prospects.

The PhD in Clinical Psychology at Lakehead University is a three‑year, English‑taught program that builds directly on the university’s MA offering. Designed for students who already hold a master’s degree, the curriculum blends rigorous scientific training with advanced clinical practice. Tuition is CAD 13,771 per year, and applicants pay a modest CAD 105 application fee. The program emphasizes research excellence, ethical practice, and community service, preparing graduates to become skilled researchers, clinicians, and educators.

Core coursework covers a wide spectrum of clinical expertise, including Advanced Psychopathology, Cognitive‑Behavioral Therapy, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Psychopharmacology. Students also engage in specialized topics such as multicultural issues, family therapy, and clinical supervision. A strong research component runs throughout, featuring advanced statistics, research methods, and a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field. Practical experience is secured through a supervised practicum or internship, ensuring graduates can translate theory into effective client care.

Lakehead’s program fosters a collaborative, intellectually vibrant community. Faculty mentors guide students in developing critical thinking, scientific rigor, and ethical judgment. Graduates emerge equipped to advance psychological science, improve mental‑health services, and influence public policy. International students benefit from a supportive environment, English‑language instruction, and the chance to study in Canada’s welcoming, multicultural landscape while contributing to global mental‑health research.