The PhD in Clinical Psychology at the School of Behavioral Health Sciences (SBHS), UTHealth Houston is a rigorous, research-driven program designed to prepare students for impactful careers as licensed clinical psychologists, researchers, and educators. Grounded in the scientist-practitioner model, this program equips students with the clinical, academic, and research skills needed to lead in diverse professional settings.
The program provides a deep foundation in both the science and practice of psychology. Students will gain expertise in:
Starting in Year 2, students begin year-long practicum rotations, first at SBHS’s in-house Psychology Teaching Clinic, followed by placements in specialized outpatient and inpatient settings, including:
These placements provide hands-on experience in delivering psychological services under the supervision of licensed psychologists, with regular performance evaluations and feedback.
Students are paired with faculty mentors to engage in collaborative research, contribute to peer-reviewed publications, and develop a dissertation that advances the field of clinical psychology. The curriculum includes advanced coursework in:
A comprehensive examination—both written and oral—is required after completing core coursework, assessing students’ ability to integrate theory, research, and clinical knowledge.
With a growing national demand for mental health professionals, especially in underserved areas, our graduates are well-positioned to make a lasting impact in healthcare, education, and research.
Providing psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders.
Conducting research and teaching in higher education to advance knowledge in psychology and related fields.
Offering expert guidance on behavioral health issues within medical and organizational settings.
Leading, mentoring, and overseeing mental health teams and program operations.
Our faculty are nationally recognized leaders in clinical psychology, with expertise in trauma, neuropsychology, developmental disorders, substance use, and more. They are committed to:
