Oklahoma City University

Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology

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Do you feel a calling to care for the mental health needs of your community? Oklahoma City University's Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program is here for you. As the state's only practitioner-focused PsyD program, you'll take part in unique classes and experiences aimed at preparing you to make a difference. Our rigorous academic curriculum is provided in a supportive, student-centered learning environment that fosters intellectual growth, professionalism, and ethical behavior through active learning and individualized instruction. 

PROGRAM QUICK FACTS

  • PROGRAM DURATION: 120 CREDIT HOURS
  • MODALITY: IN-PERSON ON THE OCU CAMPUS
  • ACCREDITATION: FULLY ACCREDITED THROUGH THE AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION COMMISSION ON ACCREDITATION
  • ADMISSION: GRE AND CERTAIN PSYCHOLOGY PREREQS REQUIRED

At Oklahoma City University, we aim to educate compassionate practitioners who step into their roles with confidence and professionalism. We prepare students for the wide array of situations they may encounter in practice.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

  • Establish general knowledge base in core areas of psychology, including biological bases of behavior, cognitive affective bases of behavior and development across the lifespan and applicability to clinical practice
  • Develop clinical skills of evidence-based practice in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders, including understanding and applicability of such practice with diverse individuals and within interdisciplinary settings
  • Develop fundamental skills conducting psychological research using the scientific method and applying this knowledge to clinical practice
  • Develop ethical and professional behaviors and implement such behaviors in professional activities such as research, supervision, consultation, and practice
Male counselor takes notes while talking with female patient.

WHY OCU PsyD?

PRACTITIONER-FOCUSED

You learn skills that enable you to go beyond research and focus on helping address the mental health needs and human potential of your community.

DIVERSE STUDENT PROFILE

You don't have to be a psychology major to find a home in OCU's PsyD program. Our coursework is ideally suited for and enjoyed by students from a variety of backgrounds, including therapy, counseling, behavioral analysis and social work.

PROFESSIONAL PATHWAYS

Program graduates can work in both the private and public sectors, including hospitals, community agencies, clinics, and private practice.

MEET THE PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Melissa Hakman, Ph.D., is the chair and director of Oklahoma City University's Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program. She is also a professor of psychology and a member of the clinical faculty at OCU. 

Hakman's research has focused on the impact of early adverse life experiences on emotional functioning across the lifespan; trauma and psychological adjustment; interpersonal relationships and family dynamics; risk-related behaviors and resilience; and child and adolescent mental health.

Hakman's emphasis within the OCU PsyD program is to prepare students to practice and lead professionally and ethically, and for students to learn to provide quality mental health care for the betterment of patients and our communities.

Young lesbian couple on counseling appointment, talking about their problems with therapist

READY TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY?

Start on the path to becoming a difference-maker in your community with the Oklahoma City University PsyD program.

REQUEST INFORMATION