The PhD program in Clinical Psychology at Pacific University adheres to an integrated scientist-practitioner model. In this model, our science advances our practice while, at the same time, our clinical practice guides, directs, and informs our research. Students are trained to integrate the science and practice of psychology by completing specific requirements in didactic instruction and experiential practica. Graduates are capable of functioning as scientists and providers, but are trained with a particular emphasis on the research and academic aspects of psychology.

Admissions Information

We're here to help on your way to your PhD! Learn about the admissions process and contact your admissions counselor.

How to Apply

In accordance with competencies outlined by the American Psychological Association as essential for psychologists and projections regarding the new and innovative ways in which psychologists will need to practice, students are trained to evaluate and administer programs and outcomes, to develop innovative interventions, to be competent supervisors and consultants, and to function effectively in integrated healthcare settings.

The training is generalist; however, the program emphasizes research and clinical experience in complementary healthcare. Students have the opportunity to gain experience in areas of faculty expertise, including mindfulness and MBSR, aging and cognitive issues (e.g., Alzheimer's disease; memory), behavioral neuroscience, pediatric neuropsychology, childhood risk & resilience, and substance abuse. 

PhD in Clinical Psychology Program Aims

The PhD Program has three primary aims:

  1. To prepare culturally sensitive clinical health scientists, with competence at applied health research;
  2. To prepare culturally sensitive health service practitioners who provide evidence-based health care services;
  3. To prepare culturally sensitive psychologists committed to lifelong learning and dissemination of psychological knowledge, methods, and practice.

Fully Accredited PhD in Clinical Psychology Program

Pacific University’s PhD Program is Accredited by the APA Commission on Accreditation (see the APA Accreditation website for further details).

Questions related to the program's accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation: 
Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation 
American Psychological Association 
750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
202-336-5979 | apaaccred@apa.org 
www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

Contact Us

School of Graduate Psychology
503-352-7277 | 503-352-7320 (fax)

190 SE 8th Ave., Ste. 260
Hillsboro, OR 97123

Jenni Gottschalk | Assistant Director of Graduate and Professional Admissions
800-933-9308 Ext 7225 or 503-352-7225 | PsychDoctorate@pacificu.edu

Upcoming Events

Mar
25
All Day | Monday, March 25, 2024 to All Day | Friday, March 29, 2024
Forest Grove
Jul
4
All Day | Thursday, July 4, 2024
Forest Grove

Headlines

Schwartz has extensive teaching experience in graduate clinical psychology beginning in 1981. He was a core faculty member of the Illinois School of Professional Psychology for over 30 years. 

Grant Awarded Placeholder Graphic

The university's Master of Social Work and Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology programs will split a two-year, $1.8 million grant from the Oregon Health Authority aimed to increase the capacity and diversity in the state's mental health workforce.

Graduates sit under the oaks on the Forest Grove Campus during August Commencement 2023.

Students earned bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in audiology, dental hygiene, psychology, health sciences, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, and education and leadership.