Psychology, Clinical Science (PhD)

Program Overview

A member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science, Binghamton University’s doctoral program in clinical psychology combines coursework, research training and practical clinical skills in a rigorous curriculum that allows for independence, responsibility and self-determination in areas of specialization. As active clinical scientists, students are expected to contribute new knowledge to the field and hone their skills in a variety of settings, from academic to direct-service provision.

Our program is highly competitive and students should be self-motivated with strong attention to detail. 

Students may be admitted with a tuition scholarship and stipends for serving as research or teaching assistants. In many cases, teaching assistantships include health insurance and a tuition scholarship. Students that remain in good standing are eligible for up to 5 years of funding.

Interested students are encouraged to read the Graduate Clinical Guide (pdf, 241kb) for a better understanding of what the program entails. Student’s professional goals should match those of the training program.

Degrees Offered

  • PhD in Clinical Psychology

Internships, Research Opportunities and More

Students will collaborate closely with distinguished professors to develop a unique course of study that reflects the student’s personal interests as well as those of the faculty mentor. Students are likely to specialize in a number of different areas such as psychopathology (e.g., anxiety, depression, dissociation) and personality disorders (e.g., schizotypy, psychopathy); marital/relationship problems; trauma; psychotherapy methods; autism spectrum disorders; consciousness studies; and health psychology. Our students are generally very successful in acquiring competitive and highly regarded internship placements at VA centers, medical schools, training hospitals, the military, autism centers, and counseling centers.

There are many opportunities for students to practice skills in the field. The Psychological Clinic on campus is a training facility where doctoral students receive supervised practical experience. The clinic offers psychotherapy, behavioral therapy and assessment services for adults, children, couples, families and groups presenting with a broad range of concerns. Some faculty supervisors conduct specialized clinical research and demonstration projects with a specific type of clinical disorder or therapeutic intervention. Doctoral students can also train in local community health agencies.

After You Graduate

Our graduates are prepared for a multitude of careers and roles as active clinical scientists: Most find employment in academic positions and settings where they conduct research, do evidence-based clinical work, combine research with clinical interventions, and disseminate knowledge in publications, presentations, workshops, consultation, and supervision. These settings include colleges, universities, and medical schools; hospitals; Veterans Administration (VA) centers; counseling centers; and outpatient and inpatient treatment settings. Many students elect to participate in advanced postdoctoral training to further qualify them for careers of their choice as clinical scientists.

Binghamton graduates are not expected to pursue careers devoted solely to the practice of clinical psychology as private or independent practitioners. Anyone committed to such a career track would be well advised to apply elsewhere.

Admission Requirements

For more information, visit the Psychology, Clinical Science website.