Getting a Dallas PsyD, Clinical Psychology

Posted by Helping Psychology in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX on Oct 27, 2009

Are you interested in working as a clinical psychologist? If so, you might be interested in the PsyD, Clinical Psychology program at Argosy University in Dallas. This program will equip you to work as a clinical psychologist in the public or private sector. If you do not want to work one-on-one with clients, this program may still be for you; the degree also enables you to work as a consultant in various fields, such as law, marketing, and government.

There are many reasons to pursue a career in clinical psychology. Clinical psychologists can help individuals live better lives, and in some cases may even help save somebody's life. Those who are more interested in the research end may be able to contribute to the field's understanding of mental disorders or propose more effective treatments. Consultants can also help others succeed in a variety of ways. Whatever branch of clinical psychology you choose to go into, rest assured you will beentering a rewarding career in which you can make a positive difference in the world.

The educational prerequisites for earning a PsyD, clinical psychology at Argosy University are a Bachelor's degree in a related field from a regionally accredited institution; a GPA of at least 3.25 in the relevant field of study and any graduate work; and a successful interview with an Argosy University representative. Non-English speakers must also pass the Test of English Fluency (TOEFL), with a minimum score of 550 for the paper version or 213 for the computerized version of the exam. Before applying for the program, candidates should consider whether they are truly committed to a career in clinical psychology, as coursework takes 4-6 years to complete.

One of the unique things about the Dallas area is its multiculturalism; for this reason, one of the objectives of the PsyD, clinical psychology program is to train students to be effective at helping people from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Coursework equips students to recognize their own biases and prejudices, understand how cultural norms and beliefs influence both the psychology client and the practitioner, and to aid clients in a tolerant manner that takes cultural differences and influences into account. Students will also gain understanding of how cultural bias can influence assessment instruments, and correct for this bias when analyzing data. In addition to multicultural concerns, students in this program learn scientific methods of analysis and treatment, and are subjected to rigorous coursework related to ethical concerns.

The program is geared towards traditional students; however, classes are offered during all times of the day in order to accommodate students' various work and family schedules. Students may complete coursework in as little as four years, and are required to complete it in seven. Once they earn a PsyD, clinical psychology degree, students are eligible to take the licensure exams required for practice. These exams are given by state agencies that are not affiliated with Argosy University; students do not have to earn a license in order to receive a degree.