michigan state university clinical psychology phd

Michigan Masters in Clinical Psychology Graduate Programs

Written by Sarah Walsh

Clinical PsyD — Rutgers University | Clinical Psychologist

Michigan, known for its exceptional higher education institutions, offers several reputable graduate programs in clinical psychology that provide comprehensive training and research opportunities for aspiring clinical psychologists. These programs, housed within a variety of respected universities, are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to assess, diagnose, and treat a broad range of mental health disorders.

Students in these programs can expect to gain a deep understanding of psychological theories, research methodologies, evidence-based interventions, and ethical considerations pertinent to the field of clinical psychology. The programs typically follow a scientist-practitioner model of training, emphasizing the integration of scientific research with clinical practice. This approach facilitates a deeper understanding of the psychological underpinnings of human behavior, psychopathology, and therapeutic techniques, and enables students to apply their theoretical knowledge and research skills to address clinical issues.

The curriculum in these programs is generally comprehensive and rigorous. It covers an array of areas including psychopathology, assessment techniques, therapeutic interventions, research methods, cultural diversity, and professional ethics. The goal of these programs is to produce well-rounded professionals capable of not only conducting impactful research but also effectively applying empirical findings to inform their clinical practice and deliver evidence-based psychological services.

To provide hands-on experience, these programs also typically offer supervised practicum placements. These practical experiences allow students to apply what they’ve learned in coursework to real-world settings such as hospitals, clinics, community mental health centers, and university counseling centers. Under the guidance of licensed clinicians, students have the opportunity to hone their clinical skills and gain invaluable practical experience serving diverse populations.

Upon completion of their graduate studies in clinical psychology, students in Michigan are well-equipped for various career paths. They can pursue roles in clinical practice, academic research, teaching, or taking up leadership positions in mental health organizations. Many graduates also choose to become licensed clinical psychologists, a process that usually involves completing a certain number of supervised clinical hours and passing state licensing exams.

However, it’s important to note that program availability, specific offerings, and accreditation status can change over time and may vary among universities. Therefore, potential applicants should conduct further research, such as visiting official university websites or contacting program administrators, to obtain the most up-to-date information about the clinical psychology graduate programs they’re interested in.

Masters in Clinical Psychology Programs in Michigan

Here are some Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in Michigan:

Western Michigan University

Weblink: Behavior Analysis & Industrial Organizational Behavior Management Psychology Master’s Program

Description: Western Michigan University offers a Master’s program in Behavior Analysis & Industrial Organizational Behavior Management Psychology that aligns with the scientist-practitioner model, ensuring that graduates are well-versed in both theoretical principles and their application to clinical settings. While the institution also provides a doctoral degree program, the Master’s program is specifically designed to equip students with a fundamental understanding of clinical psychology theories, research methods, and evidence-based practices. The curriculum incorporates key aspects of the field, such as psychopathology, psychological assessment, and various therapeutic approaches. In addition to classroom instruction, students gain hands-on experience through a practicum, where they can apply their acquired knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced clinicians. The program is aimed at producing graduates who are prepared for further advanced study or for roles in mental health settings, research, or related fields.

Eastern Michigan University

Weblink: Master’s in Psychology – General

Description: Eastern Michigan University offers a Master’s program in General Psychology. The General Clinical master’s program offers an extensive curriculum that delves into the complex nature of psychological disorders, focusing on comprehensive assessment, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment approaches from diverse theoretical frameworks. Students gain a deep understanding of various perspectives on personality and psychopathology, equipping them with the necessary skills to apply current, widely recognized methods of psychological assessment and psychotherapy.

In addition to the theoretical and practical aspects of clinical psychology, this program places a strong emphasis on preparing students for professional licensure and clinical practice at the master’s level as a Limited License Psychologist (LLP) in the state of Michigan. Through rigorous training and supervised experiences, students develop the competence and ethical standards required for successful clinical practice.

Moreover, the program goes beyond clinical training by incorporating a strong research component. Students are trained in the design and analysis of clinical research, enabling them to contribute to the advancement of the field. This research-focused approach provides students with valuable skills in critically evaluating existing knowledge and conducting original studies, promoting evidence-based practice in their future careers.

Overall, the General Clinical master’s program offers a comprehensive education that prepares students to become competent and compassionate clinicians, capable of addressing the complex needs of individuals with psychological disorders. By integrating theoretical perspectives, clinical skills, licensure preparation, and research training, this program empowers graduates to make a meaningful impact in the field of clinical psychology.

Please note that the provided descriptions offer a general overview of the respective programs, and it’s advisable to visit the program websites for more detailed and up-to-date information about admission requirements, curriculum, faculty, and specific opportunities offered by each program.

Doctorate of Clinical Psychology Programs in Michigan

Here are detailed descriptions of Doctorate of Clinical Psychology programs in Michigan:

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Website: Clinical Science Doctoral Program

Description: The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor offers a highly regarded Clinical Science Doctoral Program, which is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). This program emphasizes the integration of science and practice, adopting a clinical science model of training. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics in clinical psychology, offering both breadth and depth in the field. Students are engaged in cutting-edge research from the start and are mentored by faculty members who are leading experts in various areas of psychology. They receive comprehensive training in the assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and prevention of mental health disorders, as well as in conducting research that advances understanding of these disorders. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academia, research, and clinical practice.

Michigan State University

Website: Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program

Description: Michigan State University hosts an APA-accredited Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program that places a strong emphasis on research. Following a scientist-practitioner model, this program offers rigorous training in conducting research and providing evidence-based psychological services. Students can specialize in several areas of study, including health psychology, child clinical psychology, and neuropsychology, allowing them to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. The curriculum involves extensive coursework, research projects, and supervised clinical experiences. Faculty members at Michigan State are highly engaged in research, offering students the opportunity to participate in ongoing projects across a range of topics in clinical psychology. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, healthcare settings, and more.

Wayne State University

Description: The Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program at Wayne State University, accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), places a significant emphasis on urban and multicultural issues. This program employs the scientist-practitioner model, integrating research and clinical practice and focusing on the application of evidence-based treatments. Students have the opportunity to specialize in various areas such as child and adolescent psychology, health psychology, neuropsychology, and behavioral medicine. Through rigorous coursework, research projects, and supervised clinical experiences, students gain comprehensive knowledge and skills in clinical psychology. The program also offers unique opportunities to work with diverse and underserved populations, providing students with valuable hands-on experience. Graduates of this program are equipped for careers in academia, healthcare settings, research institutions, and more.

Description: The Department of Psychology at Western Michigan University offers an APA-accredited Doctoral program in Clinical Psychology. Following a scientist-practitioner model, this program ensures that graduates are well-versed in both theoretical principles and their application to clinical settings. The curriculum covers key aspects of clinical psychology, such as psychopathology, psychological assessment, various therapeutic approaches, and research methodologies. Students gain practical experience through research projects and practicum placements where they apply their acquired knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced clinicians. The program is designed to produce graduates who can contribute meaningfully to the field through research, clinical practice, and teaching in a variety of settings.

Central Michigan University

Description: Central Michigan University hosts an APA-accredited Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program that aligns with the scientist-practitioner model. This program offers comprehensive training in both research and clinical practice, preparing students for a wide range of careers in the field. The curriculum covers key domains of clinical psychology, such as assessment and intervention strategies, psychopathology, research methodologies, and ethical and professional issues. Students can receive training in several specialty areas including child and adult psychology, neuropsychology, and health psychology. Aside from rigorous coursework, the program includes a strong research component, with students participating in faculty-led research projects and completing a doctoral dissertation. Practical training is also integral to the program, with students gaining hands-on clinical experience through practicum placements and an APA-accredited internship. Graduates of this program are equipped to serve as competent researchers and clinicians in a variety of professional settings.

Click here to get information about Psychology Masters programs offered in Michigan.

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Doctoral Application Process

Admissions deadline for fall 2025: december 1, 2024, please note:.

The link to start the application is: https://admissions.msu.edu/apply/graduate-students

Contact the School Psychology Program Coordinator at [email protected] for questions that may arise.

We are glad to see you are interested in the MSU School Psychology Ph.D. Program! We encourage you to learn about our  student group  and our  faculty , or take a  tour  of the MSU campus.

We invite you to  reach out to a current Ph.D. student  or  contact a faculty member  with any questions about the program or the admissions process.

Admissions Criteria for Ph.D. Program

We seek applicants who are interested in working as doctoral-level school psychologists. Professional activities include research, assessment, intervention, and consultation with the school-aged population, their caregivers, educators, and other professionals.

We believe our profession benefits from the perspectives of those who differ by gender, ethnicity, race, culture, sexual orientation, age, religious beliefs, socioeconomic class, and varying abilities.  We encourage diverse individuals to apply to our program and to seek out opportunities to serve divers clients and systems.

Checklist of Application Steps (Details can be found below)

• Complete the  University Application
• Submit your  fee of $65  OR e-mail [email protected] to explain your fee waiver
• Provide contact information for  three recommendation letter  writers
• Upload your Academic Statement and Personal Statement
• Upload your  Writing Sample
• Upload your  Curriculum Vita or Resume
• Confirm in the Application that you can complete an internship of 2000, full-time, clock hours
• Have one  official copy of your Transcripts  sent from each previous institution attended
• Send your Graduate Record Examination (GRE) by designating Michigan State University (1465) as an official recipient of your scores.
• For International students only: Complete  Step 4 outlined below
• All applicants should be for  Fall Semester (FS) . If you are a returning applicant, or you need to select a new term, please contact the program coordinator ([email protected])
• Provide Personal Background Information
• For each recommender, include: Title (e.g., Dr. or Ms.), first and last name, job title, employer, and e-mail address. Ensure you have a mutual agreement with your recommender prior to submitting their information into the system. You may need to follow up with your recommenders regarding missing letters to complete your application. Seek recommendations from individuals who are knowledgeable about your academic performance and ability to work effectively with people.
• You will come to a supplemental questions page; please leave the “what influenced your decision” question blank but please answer all other questions on application. Your applicant statement will answer that question for us and we need an uploaded document.
• This document is a key component of your application. See description of  content and formatting  of this statement. Use this statement to make a case for why you’re a good fit with the research team of one or two of the school psychology faculty.
• Submit an example of academic or professional writing. Present evidence of previous research experience (e.g., a master’s thesis or scholarly paper, work on a research project, publication in a professional journal, or a presentation at a professional conference).
• A teaching certificate is not required, however evidence of experience working with children, youth and families in school, community or agency settings is desirable.
• The application will have a prompt asking you to confirm that you can complete an internship of 2000, full-time, clock hours. Please ensure that prompt has an answer selected from the drop-down menu.
• Applicants whose graduate application fee is waived  MUST  notify the School Psychology program assistant at  [email protected]  to ensure your application is reviewed by the admissions committee. If you need to request a fee waiver, please contact the School Psychology Program Coordinator. Waivers cannot be fulfilled until you have submitted an application, stopping on the payment portal page.
• These transcripts must be sent  directly  from the institution; please contact the registrar’s office at your institution for the procedures. Transcripts must indicate a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution either conferred or in progress. Individuals with advanced degrees (e.g., M.A., M.E., Ed.S.) are encouraged to apply; students entering the program with an advanced degree may have some requirements waived.
• Supply evidence of previous successful academic performance, including a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in the last two years on undergraduate coursework and a minimum grade point average of 3.5 in graduate coursework.
• If you have taken coursework at other institutions, but did not earn a degree (i.e. took a couple of courses), you may use unofficial transcripts for these.
• Have your institution send the transcripts directly to: School Psychology Program Assistant [email protected] 620 Farm Lane, Rm 435 East Lansing, MI 48824-1034, USA 517-432-0843
• Applicants from Chinese Universities:  Please see the link provided below. https://grad.msu.edu/chinese-applicants
• The verbal, quantitative and analytical portions of the GRE should be submitted. Typical scores for students admitted into our program fall within the above average range. The college requires that the GRE must have been taken no longer than five years prior to the application for admission.
• MSU Testing office, 207 Student Services Building, East Lansing, MI 48824 517-355-8385
• Demonstrate  proficiency in English : https://admissions.msu.edu/apply/international/language-requirements
• International applicants are required to submit an Affidavit of Support and financial proof. This statement, which is found on the  Grad School’s International Applicants information  page, must originate from your source of support and must be a certified, original statement with stamp and original signature.

Interview Day

The admissions committee review all applications and select a group of approximately 10-15 applicants to invite to campus for a day-long interview. Invited applicants are expected to participate in the on-campus interview with current faculty and students. If a campus visit is not feasible, program staff work with applicants to make other arrangements. Interview Day will be 1/17/2025.

Ph.D. in Psychology: Clinical

Wayne State's Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology offers intensive training in clinical neuropsychology and child/adolescent clinical psychology, with additional opportunities in clinical health psychology, clinical/community psychology, substance abuse/dependence and trauma psychology. Our extensive network of affiliated faculty and facilities provides research and clinical training in many other areas, including infant mental health, gerontology, rehabilitation, forensics and primary care.

Ever since its initial accreditation by the APA in 1960, the Wayne State University Ph.D. program in clinical psychology has been widely recognized as a leader in the scientist-practitioner tradition. We proudly follow that model, as we educate highly skilled psychologists who competently provide a broad range of professional services, contribute to scientific development by conducting research and disseminate knowledge effectively by educating and training others.

View student admissions, outcomes and other data

Program benefits

Our students are prepared first as psychologists, second as clinical psychologists and third as clinical psychologists with specific expertise. Thus, all students receive:

• Discipline-specific knowledge about the biological, social, cognitive, affective and developmental bases of behavior, along with the history of psychology.
• Profession-wide competencies, including didactic and clinical training in psychopathology, ethics, psychological assessment and intervention across the age range and with diverse populations, and research methods and statistics.
• Clinical training at our in-house Psychology Clinic , external placements and an accredited predoctoral internship.
• Research training in faculty laboratories and sometimes at external training sites.

All of the above are conducted with substantial exposure to and training in individual and cultural diversity, ethical and legal standards and communication and interpersonal skills.

Wayne State clinical psychology graduates routinely take positions of leadership and innovation in dealing with clinical problems within the context of the individual, family and community. Our urban setting and commitment to addressing the needs of the underserved allow us to offer clinical training and research opportunities in numerous clinical settings with a wide variety of health problems across a broad spectrum of socioeconomic, ethnic and cultural populations.

About the program

Our Ph.D. program is year-round, intensive and full-time; students often spend 60+ hours per week in program-related activities. Most of our students spend five years in residence before conducting a year-long internship in their sixth year, at the end of which they graduate. Students entering with a master's degree in psychology may spend one year less in the program (i.e., four years in residence and one year on internship). Wayne State strives to ensure that all students who are making good progress are funded (a stipend plus almost all of their tuition) for the first four years and students are routinely funded in their fifth year as well.

The Clinical Psychology Graduate Student Handbook provides extensive information about our program. We invite you to review this to learn more about our program. Applicants who are made an offer of admission to our program are expected to read this handbook and endorse its content (including ethics policies) as a condition of admission.

View graduate handbook

As a member of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Training (CUDCP), our program adheres to CUDCP's policies and guidelines for graduate school admissions, offers and acceptance. For additional information about these policies, see the summary of CUDCP policy . More information about clinical psychology and application tips also can be found at clinicalpsychgradschool.org , offered by CUDCP.

The Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at Wayne State University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association through 2028. Questions related to the program's accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

American Psychological Association Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation 750 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20002-4242 202-336-5979, [email protected]

Federal regulations require Wayne State University (WSU) to publicly disclose, for each educational program designed to meet the educational requirements for a specific professional license or certification required for employment in an occupation (or advertised as meeting those requirements), information about whether program completion would meet those requirements in a state. These public disclosure requirements apply to all programs, regardless of their modality (i.e., in-person, remote/online, and hybrid programs).

The university has determined that the curriculum of the program leading to the Ph.D. in Psychology: Clinical at Wayne State University meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in all states except California, Hawaii, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York and Oklahoma. In these states, students might need to take one or more additional courses beyond those completed for the curriculum leading to the Ph.D. in Psychology: Clinical at Wayne State University.

The information stated above is based on state educational requirements that were available to the program on June 24, 2024. WSU will continue to update, by program, which of its programs fully meet the requirements of other states for professional licensure and/or certification. Consequently, those students wishing to pursue licensure, who live in a state other than Michigan or those states not listed above, should consult with the licensing board in their state to determine specific requirements of the program and whether the completion of the Ph.D. in Psychology: Clinical at Wayne State University would meet those requirements.

All current and prospective students are also encouraged to connect with the applicable professional licensure/certification boards in their respective states for additional information regarding non-educational requirements for professional licensure/certification, including, but not limited to, work experience, outside agency examinations or background clearance.

Admission to our clinical psychology Ph.D. program is competitive. Each year, we receive about 200 to 250 applications, interview about 35 applicants and admit about 10 to 14 applicants to obtain an incoming class of seven or eight students. Admitted applicants' undergraduate (or master's program) GPAs are always above 3.0 (and usually much higher) and they show evidence of strong language and writing skills as well as quantitative abilities (e.g., good grades in statistics or other math courses or evidence or statistical skill in their research).

Research leaning

Although we are a scientist-practitioner program, we're more research-oriented than many programs that follow this model; thus,  experience in conducting research and interest in continuing to do so are vital and weigh heavily in admissions . Student matches with our program's philosophy and specific faculty research areas are also very important considerations. Potential applicants should consider the interests and expertise of our faculty, compare them to their own educational goals and discuss this in their personal statement as well as identify potential mentors of interest on the application portal.

Portfolio review

We review applicants' entire portfolio to obtain a holistic picture of their backgrounds and unique characteristics. We seek applicants who demonstrate not only strong academic, research and clinical potential but also initiative, resilience and leadership characteristics. We seek applicants who are committed to improving the lives of urban populations, including ethnic/racial minorities and the socioeconomically disadvantaged. We also encourage applications from individuals whose backgrounds are under-represented in clinical psychology.

We expect to recruit seven or eight new students into the clinical psychology program for fall 2024. These core clinical psychology faculty are open to recruiting new graduate students:

• Christopher Trentacosta
• Emily Grekin
• Mark Lumley
• Valerie Simon

In addition, these faculty in other areas of the Department of Psychology are open to mentoring the research of graduate students who are in the clinical psychology program. Students working with one of these faculty have a clinical area faculty member on their mentoring team to serve as a clinical area advisor:

• Olivenne Skinner
• Ty Partridge

These clinical psychology faculty are not recruiting students:

• Douglas Barnett
• John Woodard
• Lisa Rapport

Note that the GRE General Test and psychology subtest will be accepted as optional or supplementary material to your application for fall 2024 admission. You may submit one or both sets of scores for consideration if you wish. We will review all applications, with or without GRE scores.

View admissions

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology curriculum

In addition to the department's  general requirements  and  curriculum  for the Ph.D. degree, students in the clinical program must satisfy additional criteria established by the APA for accredited programs in health service psychology. Clinical program students are required to take History and Systems, at least one course in each of four discipline-specific knowledge areas, and an advanced, integrative course.

Clinical students also complete the following series of courses:

• Psychopathology
• Psychological Assessment I and II
• Research Methods in Clinical Psychology
• Practicum in Psychological Assessment (three semesters)
• Therapeutic Interventions I and II
• Practicum in Therapeutic Interventions (three semesters)
• Ethical Issues in Clinical Psychology (three one-hour seminars)

At a minimum, all clinical psychology graduate students complete a formal master's thesis (unless transferring in one from another graduate program) and a doctoral dissertation. Yet, our scientist-practitioner program encourages and supports students' efforts to enhance their research skills and productivity by participating in activities beyond those that are required. We have extensive collaborations with many research institutes, hospitals, schools, and community organizations as well as other faculty in the psychology department to provide students with a broad array of opportunities in research.

Clinical training consists of practicum courses, internal and external practicum training, and a predoctoral internship. The internal practicum courses in assessment and psychological intervention operate as part of the Psychology Clinic, which is run by our training program. The  Wayne State University Psychology Clinic  is used for training purposes throughout students' graduate years. Clinical graduate students learn about the Clinic and how to conduct assessments in their first year. In their second year, they conduct a psychological assessment practicum, and in their third year, an intervention (therapy) practicum. Students often pursue advanced training in dialectical behavior therapy and other approaches and participate in supervision training in their last year on campus. Supervision is provided by our core clinical faculty (rather than outsiders), who maintain many different theoretical orientations to both assessment and intervention. The clinic serves a very ethnically diverse, socioeconomically challenged population of children, adults, couples, and families from the community.

Students' clinical training also is greatly strengthened by a network of approximately 25 external practicum placements. Students are required to conduct at least one such externship but usually conduct at least two, usually in their third and fourth years of the program. These external placements range from one day to three days per week, and some of them pay the student a stipend directly to the student. Many of these placements are noted below.  Students apply for these placements in January and usually participate in them for a year, starting in September.

Finally, the required predoctoral internship consists of one year of full-time training in an APA-accredited internship program. Successful completion of the internship is required for the conferral of the doctoral degree.

Concentrations in clinical psychology

Our program has long been a national leader in clinical neuropsychology training. We are affiliated with APA Division 40 (neuropsychology) and provide education that is consistent with the Houston conference guidelines for training in clinical neuropsychology. Our program collaborates with Wayne State's Institute of Gerontology and is a member of the Council of Professional Gerontology Training Programs.

Students interested in this concentration are expected to complete courses in the biological basis of behavior, clinical neuropsychology, neuropsychological assessment and may take other courses such as neuroscience and neuroanatomy. These students receive clinical neuropsychology training at various placements in the Detroit area, such as the Rehabilitation Institute of Medicine, Ann Arbor VA, the University of Michigan Medical Center, Beaumont Hospital, Henry Ford Hospital and Children's Hospital, where they are supervised by neuropsychologists. Research related to neuropsychology is usually mentored by Drs. Lisa Rapport or John Woodard (and occasionally by Peter Lichtenberg ) and for those interested in child/pediatric neuropsychology, by Dr. Sarah Raz .

Our program is a member of the Clinical Child and Pediatric Psychology Training Council (CCaPPTC) . Students who wish to pursue a career working with children or adolescents typically complete advanced courses in child psychopathology and various courses related to developmental psychology.

A dual-title Ph.D. in Infant Mental Health is also available. Students receive clinical training at the Children's Center, General Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine (GPAM), Project Challenge at Children's Hospital, Hawthorn Center, The Guidance Center and several private or group practices run by our alumni. Student research in child clinical psychology is usually mentored by Drs. Douglas Barnett , Christopher Trentacosta or Valerie Simon , as well as developmental psychologist, Marjorie Beeghly .

Other training foci

Our program is a member of the Council of Clinical Health Psychology Training Programs (CCHPTP). Students who wish to pursue careers in medically-oriented settings or health-related problems typically will take Health Psychology I and II and Biological Bases of Health Psychology. These students receive clinical training (and often conduct outside research) at Beaumont Family Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Beaumont Pain Clinic and Wayne State Life Stress Center. Student research in health psychology is usually mentored by Dr. Mark Lumley as well as social health psychologist, Dr. Samuele Zilioli .

Students wishing to focus on community-based problems such as homelessness, poverty, serious mental illness and related issues will usually complete Community Psychology or Theories and Methods of Program Evaluation, as well as courses outside the department (e.g., public health). These students receive clinical training in setting such as the Michigan Forensic Center, the Wayne State Counseling and Psychological Services center and local community mental health organizations. Student research is usually mentored by Dr. Paul Toro .

Students interested in this topic usually conduct research with Dr. Emily Grekin and possibly with other departmental faculty such as social psychologists Antonia Abbey , Catalina Kopetz , or Tim Bogg . Clinical training is typically conducted at Wayne State's Tolan Park Substance Abuse Program, which usually includes clinical research opportunities. Coursework in addictions can be taken in the psychiatry department.

Career insights

This tool provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills, or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.

Alia Allen , academic services officer III [email protected] ,  313-577-2823

Michigan Master’s in Psychology Degree Programs and Resources

Below is a list, ranked by affordability, of colleges in Michigan that offer postgraduate psychology degree programs. There are 13 schools offering 48 psychology degree programs.  The following are areas of study: psychology, psychological science, applied behavior analysis, experimental psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, social-personality psychology, evolutionary and comparative psychology, educational psychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial/organizational behavior management, clinical behavior psychology, counseling psychology, sports psychology, school psychology, psychological services, applied experimental psychology, cognition and cognitive neuroscience, behavioral neuroscience, community psychology; and school and community psychology. The resource table at the bottom of the page highlights websites with local psychology information. The states that border Michigan that offer graduate psychology programs include Wisconsin , Indiana and Ohio .

Michigan Master’s in Psychology Programs

Michigan Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Michigan Psychology Resources

Michigan Psychology Related Podcasts

64: Neil Lewis, Jr., PhD – Dual Appointed Associate Professor at a Research One University Shares his Advice and Journey & Discusses his Multifaceted Job

54: Hannah Schacter, PhD – Assistant Professor of Psychology at Wayne State University Shares Copious Practical Advice While Discussing her Academic and Professional Journey

52: Janeé Steele, PhD, LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified CBT Therapist, and Walden University Core Faculty Discusses Her Journey and New Book Black Lives Are Beautiful

51: Char Newton, PhD – Psychologist, Assistant Professor, and Author Shares her Journey and Advice and Explains how she Found her Niche in the Field of Psychology

30: Steven O. Roberts, PhD – Recently Promoted and Tenured Associate Professor of Psychology Shares his Journey, Experiences, and Advice

18: Malissa A. Clark, Ph.D. – Well-known Researcher and Professor in the Growing Field of I/O Psychology Offers Practical Advice to Students

16: Robert A. Bjork & Elizabeth L. Bjork, Ph.D. – Dynamic Duo and Pillars of Cognitive Research in Psychological Science

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Watch current graduate students explain how they think graduate school is different from their undergraduate experience, what they wish they would have known before coming to graduate school, and offer advice for new and prospective graduate students.

Thank you for your interest in our PhD program!

To start your Application Process:  Rackham Graduate School Online Application

The application for the Fall 2025 admission cycle is open August 21, 2024 through November 15, 2024.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have via email ( [email protected] ). 

If you are seeking advice about what kind of graduate program would be best for you, you may want to consult with the advising office of your home institution.

We hope this information will be helpful to you. Good luck in your application process.

The  best source  of information about our graduate program is  here on the Psychology website. 

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• PsyD vs PhD

Michigan Psychology Doctorate Programs

Increasing acceptance of the need for mental health treatment has led to a huge increase in enrollment in educational programs in psychology. For those who want to practice professionally as licensed psychologists, they must first complete a rigorous, multi-year doctoral program, such as a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) or a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).

The good news for prospective psychologists in Michigan is that many educational institutions in the state offer a range of degree types and focus areas. Let’s take a look at what students here in Michigan need to know about Psy.D. and similar degrees in our state and what’s required to earn licensure.

What’s On This Page

Quick facts.

• Michigan PsyD Programs
• Other Psychology Doctorates
• Michigan Psychologist Requirements
• Michigan Doctorate Salary Outlook
• Michigan is home to forty seven schools offering psychology degree programs, including both not-for-profit colleges and universities.
• Eleven schools in Michigan offer associate’s degrees, thirty eight offer bachelor’s degree programs, and sixteen offer master’s or other advanced degree programs.
• Kiplinger’s Best Values in Public Colleges, 2017, ranks Michigan State University at #38 in-state and #73 out-of-state. The same list ranks University of Michiigan considerably higher at #5 in-state and #13 out-of-state.
• Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Psychology Majors, 2018, includes Albion College, and University of Michigan – Ann Arbor.
• University of Michiigan – Ann Arbor has the highest graduation rate, at 91%, while Wayne State University holds the highest transfer-out rate in the state, at 38%.
• The highest net price school goes to Kalamaoo College at $27,958, while the lowest goes to Lake Superior State College, at $11,030.

List of PsyD Degree Programs in Michigan

Several Michigan schools are home to APA-accredited doctoral degrees in the field of psychology. Earning one of these degrees is a critical step to earning professional licensure in the state, which is a legal requirement for practicing professionally in many cases.

SEE ALSO:   5+ Online PsyD Accredited Degree Programs

Michigan School of Psychology

The Michigan School of Psychology offers the state’s only Psy.D. degree, and the unique program has been accredited by the APA since 2016. Applicants must first complete a master’s degree before seeking admission. A total of 132 students have completed the program since the 2009-10 school year, and 92% have earned licensure in mental health.

• Institution type: Private
• Campus: Farmington Hills
• Annual tuition: $39,852
• Degrees offered: PsyD
• Accreditation: APA
• Visit school: Click here

Other Psychology Doctorates in Michigan

University of michigan.

One of the first schools to earn APA accreditation, the University of Michigan’s psychology department admits only about 2% of applicants to the Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program each year. A total of 55 students have earned their degrees over the past 10 academic years for which data is available, and just over half have earned professional licensure.

• Institution type: Public
• Campus: Ann Arbor
• Annual tuition: Most admitted students will qualify for free tuition and annual research or teaching stipends
• Degrees offered: PhD in Clinical Psychology

Wayne State University

Wayne State University has offered an APA-accredited Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology since 1960, and today’s students have the option of adding a concentration area to their doctorate, including clinical neuropsychology, child clinical, health, community, trauma and substance abuse. A total of 92 students have completed the program over the past 10 years, and all of those who have sought state licensure have received it.

• Campus: Detroit
• Annual tuition: All incoming students receive full tuition and annual stipends

University of Detroit Mercy

The University of Detroit Mercy, a Jesuit Catholic university, has a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that was first accredited in 1988. Over the past decade, nearly 75 students have earned their degrees from the program, and 87% have become professionally licensed.

• Institution type: Private, not-for-profit
• Annual tuition: $97,560; most students receive 50% tuition remission in exchange for teaching or assistantship positions

Central Michigan University

CMU offers a pair of APA-accredited psychology doctorates — Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (1990) and Ph.D. in School Psychology (2001) — as well as two non-APA-accredited Ph.D. degrees in experimental and industrial-organizational psychology. Nearly 100 students have completed either the clinical or school psychology program over the past 10 years, and they’re licensed at an average rate of 83%.

• Campus: Mount Pleasant
• Annual tuition: Clinical psychology students receive free tuition and annual stipend; annual tuition for school psychology is $20,328, including for out-of-state students
• Degrees offered: PhD in Clinical Psychology (APA-accredited), PhD in School Psychology (APA-accredited), PhD in Experimental Psychology, PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Western Michigan University

Western Michigan offers two APA-accredited psychology doctorates (clinical and counseling) and a third Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis that’s not APA-accredited but is approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International. WMU’s Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology first earned APA accreditation in 1991, followed two years later by the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. The two APA-accredited programs have graduated more than 120 students combined over the past 10 years, and their licensure rate averages 87%.

• Campus: Kalamazoo
• Annual tuition: Most students receive full tuition and annual stipends
• Degrees offered: PhD in Clinical Psychology (APA-accredited), PhD in Counseling Psychology, PhD in Behavior Analysis (Association for Behavior Analysis International-accredited)
• Accreditation: APA and ABAI

Michigan State University

Michigan State’s Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology earned APA accreditation in 1948, making the program one of the first accredited by the organization. The university has also offered an APA-accredited Ph.D. in School Psychology since 1985. Between the two programs, 85 students have completed their degrees over the past 10 years, and all clinical students who sought professional licensure received it.

• Campus: East Lansing
• Annual tuition: Most students will qualify for full or partial tuition and annual stipends
• Degrees offered: PhD in Clinical Psychology, PhD in School Psychology

Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan has offered an APA-accredited Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology since 2005. Today’s students can choose from a few possible academic tracks, including adult, applied behavior analysis, assessment, health and developmental psychopathology. Nearly 75 students have completed their degrees in the past 10 years, and 82% have earned professional licensure.

• Campus: Ypsilanti
• Annual tuition: All students receive tuition remission and annual stipends

Andrews University

Andrews University, which is affiliated with the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, offers a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology that recently received APA accreditation (2017). The university offers two other psychology doctorates (educational and school), but neither of those degrees are APA-accredited. A dozen students have completed their counseling degrees from Andrews since their first year of accreditation, and 42% have become professionally licensed so far.

• Campus: Berrien Springs
• Annual tuition: $19,740, including 50% scholarship awarded to all students
• Degrees offered: PhD in Counseling Psychology (APA-accredited), PhD in Educational Psychology, PhD in School Psychology

How to Become a Psychologist in Michigan

Let’s take a closer look at all the steps involved in becoming a licensed psychologist in Michigan, including educational and legal requirements.

• Complete a bachelor’s degree program, ideally in psychology. For the most part, psychology doctoral program admissions officers will be looking for people with psychology degrees, but many applicants have been accepted with a degree in a related field, such as social work or biology. But many programs require a lower-level degree in psychology, so for those without a bachelor’s degree in the field, a master’s degree may be necessary before moving to the next step.
• Earn a Psy.D. or Ph.D. in Psychology. Psychology doctoral degrees are required for psychologist licensure in Michigan, and the state mandates that programs be accredited by the APA.
• Meet state requirements. Once they complete their doctorate program, applicants must then obtain 2,000 hours of post-degree training, after which they will be eligible to take the necessary examination for licensure. Applicants must score at least 500 on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology.
• Renew your license on time. After being granted their psychologist license, professionals in Michigan will need to complete at least 30 hours of continuing education credits every two years as well as submit renewal forms on time.

Michigan Clinical Psychologist Salary and Job Outlook

Clinical, counseling and school psychologists in Michigan have the 11th-highest average annual salary among these professionals in the United States, according to estimates reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics . Their average wage here is $90,700, considerably higher than the overall average for all workers in Michigan, which is about $51,000.

Over the next several years, psychologist jobs in Michigan are projected to expand by nearly 14%, almost three times higher than the growth rate expected for all jobs in the U.S. (5%).

Department of Psychology College of Social Science

Student admissions, outcomes, and other data.

We feel fortunate to have an outstanding student body that is actively engaged in all aspects of clinical science. The quality of our students is evidenced by their excellent undergraduate academic records and high-level of research productivity, 100% internship match rate, and success on the job market. 

Tuition and Fees

Students who receive assistantships or fellowships can expect to have their tuition waived. Tuition rates are as follows: $6,305.50 in-state; $12,371.50 out-of-state.  Health insurance and fees are also covered by the waiver.

Assistantships and Fellowships

Teaching and research assistantships currently pay a stipend of $16,459 for the academic year.  Research assistantships often continue through the summer, with additional pay for the summer term. MSU fellowships currently pay a stipend of $27,000 for the full calendar year.

*The percent licensed is computed using surveys completed by recent graduates of MSU's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program. The percent of licensed graduates is in line with the program goals and objectives. Some of our graduates have obtained academic or policy-making positions where licensure is not necessary to perform their duties. Graduates from our program who wish to become licensed to practice psychotherapy, perform clinical assessments, or become consultants, have been able in all cases to do so.

Clinical Science