Program Goals
The Psy.D. program is housed within a top tier, private, not for profit university that has served Southern California for over 50-years. The latest technology, new facilities, small class sizes, and a stimulating curriculum are what makes Cal Lutheran outstanding.
Program Goals
Through this program, you will develop:
- Clinical skills that are founded in the integration of practice and research
- Competence in research and scholarship
- An appreciation of human diversity by serving the underserved
Our dedicated faculty and staff, excellent facilities, onsite outpatient community counseling training centers, and varied practicum opportunities will help you develop your clinical and research skills as you transition from student to professional.
Built on Integration
The educational model of the Psy.D. program is based on the Practitioner-Scholar Model. This training model places particular emphasis on the clinical aspects of professional work while retaining the rigorous and prudent standards for knowing and utilizing the extant research.
Our program is built upon the deliberate integration of research and clinical practice. As an institution, Cal Lutheran has adopted three Core Commitments that guide its mission in advanced training in clinical psychology.
- Liberal Learning encompasses the critical thinking that is essential for psychologists to be effective in all domains of their work while preparing for life-long learning.
- Professional Preparation is exemplified by integrating the theoretical, research, and practical frameworks for students to excel as skillful clinicians.
- Finally, students who will become exceptional citizens and leaders of their communities for psychological good through their work with the underserved will understand the university's focus on Character and Leadership Development.
The Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology will prepare students to become licensed clinical psychologists and will have a distinctive emphasis in understanding how research contributes to and informs clinical practice.