Department of PsychologyPhD in Clinical PsychologyApply for Admissions

Apply for Admissions

Thank you for your interest in our American Psychological Association-accredited Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program at Washington State University. Our program follows a scientist-practitioner model, preparing students for careers in research, teaching, and clinical practice. Students earn a Master’s degree as part of the doctoral program but should note that we do not offer a standalone Master’s or Psy.D.

We offer specialized training in

  • Adult Psychopathology
  • Clinical Child and Family Psychology
  • Behavioral Medicine
  • Neuropsychology

Students engage in extensive research, often leading to publications and presentations, and benefit from strong internship placement at top sites nationwide. Graduates find employment in academia, medical centers, and private practice. Our mentoring model ensures close collaboration with faculty, with flexibility to switch advisors as interests evolve. Teaching opportunities are also available.

Apply Now

Learn more and start your application today!

For questions, contact

Stacy Gessler
Program Coordinator psych.grad.adm@wsu.edu

Admissions Requirements

Admission is highly competitive, with 5–8 students selected annually from approximately 300 applicants. To be considered, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

  • 3.0+ undergraduate GPA
  • Three letters of recommendation (at least two from university or medical faculty)
  • 18+ psychology credits (or 12 in psychology + 6 in a related field, subject to committee approval)
  • Statistics course completion

For those meeting these criteria, applications are evaluated based on academic performance, GRE scores (optional for 2027), research/clinical/teaching experience, relevant coursework, and demonstrated independence.

Deadline: December 1 for Fall admission. Invitations for interviews are sent by mid-January, and offers are made by late February. Admitted students typically receive financial support through assistantships.

Application Process

Applications open September 1 – December 1. To apply, complete the WSU Graduate School application and ensure that:

  • Letters of recommendation are submitted by December 1
  • You contact faculty members directly to confirm their availability for mentorship

Application Tips

A strong personal statement (max 2 pages, single-spaced) should include:

  • Your research and/or clinical experiences
  • Career goals
  • Why WSU’s Clinical Psychology program?
  • Faculty members you’d like to work with and why

Note: A felony conviction may affect internship eligibility and future licensure. Background checks and drug screenings may be required.

Accreditation

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 First Street NE
Washington, DC 20002

Phone: 202-336-5979
Email: apaaccred@apa.org
Web: APA Accreditation