Felician University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines rigorous coursework in clinical and counselling theory with extensive applied training and independent research. Core areas include psychopathology, adult and child assessment, evidence-based psychotherapy modalities, developmental psychology, neuropsychology, multicultural competence, ethics and professional issues, and advanced research methods and statistics.

• Core coursework: Advanced psychopathology, clinical assessment and diagnosis, integrative psychotherapy approaches, ethics and legal issues in professional psychology.
• Research and methods: Quantitative and qualitative methods, multivariate statistics, psychometrics, research design, and seminars preparing students to develop and defend an independent dissertation.
• Clinical training: Sequential practicum placements in university clinics, community mental health centres, hospitals, and specialised settings providing supervised experience with diverse client populations and presenting problems.
• Specialist topics: Child and adolescent interventions, trauma-informed care, couples and family therapy, health psychology, and neuropsychological assessment, depending on student interests and faculty expertise.
• Comprehensive milestones: Typical progression includes completion of coursework, practicum hours, qualifying or comprehensive examinations, dissertation proposal, and final defence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field from an accredited institution, with a strong academic record. Candidates should demonstrate readiness for doctoral-level research and clinical work.

• Academic transcripts showing a solid background in psychology (research methods, statistics, and core psychology subjects).
• A CV or résumé detailing clinical experience, research experience, and relevant professional activities.
• Personal statement outlining research interests, clinical goals, and fit with the programme and faculty.
• Letters of recommendation (typically two to three) from academic and/or professional referees able to comment on the applicant’s research potential and clinical aptitude.
• Interview with programme faculty as part of the selection process; some programmes may require submission of a writing sample or research proposal.
• State licensure requirements vary; applicants should be prepared to meet supervised clinical hour expectations and any additional criteria for psychologist licensure in the jurisdiction where they intend to practise.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers across clinical, academic and applied settings. The PhD provides the education and supervised training necessary for those pursuing professional licensure as psychologists (subject to state and national licensure requirements), as well as for research and teaching roles.

• Clinical practice: Licensed psychologist in private practice, community mental health agencies, hospitals, and specialised treatment centres.
• Academic and research careers: University or college faculty positions, research scientist roles in academic, government or independent research organisations.
• Leadership and program development: Clinical directors, programme evaluators, and policy advisors in behavioural health systems and non-profit organisations.
• Consultation and applied roles: Employee assistance programmes, organisational consultation, forensic settings, and integrated health care teams.

Why study at Felician University

Felician University offers doctoral training within a Franciscan, values-driven educational environment that emphasises ethical practice, service, and community engagement. Small cohort sizes enable close mentorship from faculty with clinical and research expertise and allow for tailored practicum placements that align with student interests.

Located in the New Jersey/New York metropolitan area, Felician provides access to diverse clinical practicum sites and professional networks while maintaining a student-centred campus culture. The programme’s integration of research, applied training, and attention to multicultural competence equips graduates to meet contemporary challenges in clinical and counselling psychology.