university of toronto phd in psychology

Universal Navigation

Universal navigation2.

• First-Year Students
• Scholarships & Awards
• Alumni-Student Mentorship Program
• Psychology Students' Association
• Undergraduate Email Listserv
• Useful Links
• Research Opportunities
• Psychology Undergraduate Research Community
• Contacts and Advising
• Past Events
• Events Submission Form
• Find Support

Search form

• Undergraduate
• Prospective Students

Application Information

If you are not already a University of Toronto student, please visit the  University Admissions and Outreach  website for information about applying to the University. Additional information for future students is available on the  Faculty of Arts & Science  website. 

If you are currently a student at the University of Toronto, please see the Admission Requirements for Psychology below for more information.

If you are a transfer student, please visit the Arts & Science  Transfer Credit  website, and the  Transfer Explorer  website for information on what courses are transferable.

If you are looking into applying to the Research Specialist Program, please see below .

Admission Requirements for Psychology  

Undergraduate students select their programs of study (Subject POSts) once they have completed a minimum of 4.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) at the university level, whether from the University of Toronto or at another institution. Thus, students begin their selected program in their second year (the first year being a general exploratory year) or, for part-time students, after the completion of 4.0 FCEs. 

In addition to 4.0 FCEs, all Psychology Programs have additonal admission requirements, which are outlined below. The Psychology Department offers a Minor, Major, Specialist and Research Specialist in Psychology as well as a Minor in Environment and Behaviour. We also offer a Certificate in Psychology of Economics and Management that would mainly be of interest to Rotman Commerce and Economics students.

Please note that, due to space limitations and the large number of applicants, our programs are all designated "Limited Enrolment" which means that even if you meet/exceed the minimum requirements, admission is not guaranteed. Be prepared with an alternate program plan should your request to be admitted to Psychology be declined. 

Minor Program

You should consider pursuing the Minor Program in Psychology if you are interested in Psychology as a part of your general education or as a compliment to your training in another profession (i.e., nursing, teaching, rehabilitation medicine, physical health and education, social work, speech-language pathology, etc.).

Enrolment Requirements:

This is a limited enrolment program. Note there are different options depending on whether a student has completed between 4.0 and 8.5 credits, or 9.0 or more credits.

Variable Minimum Grade or Minimum Grade Average Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee entrance to the program. Students must prepare to achieve a higher grade/grade average than the posted minimums listed below, which will depend each year on both available program spots and the number of competitive applicants. The following courses must be completed:

• PSY100H1 (73%) * • Gr. 12 Calculus (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Biology (passing grade)

For students who have completed 9.0 credits or more:

• PSY100H1 (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Calculus (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Biology (passing grade) • PSY201H1 (or ECO220Y1/​ EEB225H1/​ GGR270H1/​ IRW220H1/​ POL222H1/​ SOC202H1/​ STA220H1/​ STA238H1/​ STA248H1/​ STA288H1), and 1.0 200-level PSY credits from PSY210H1, PSY220H1, PSY230H1, PSY240H1, PSY260H1, PSY270H1, PSY280H1, PSY290H1, with a grade average of 70%* across all three courses. If more than 1.0 200-level PSY credits have been completed, the two with the highest grades will be used.

* In past admission cycles, the average grade cut-off for the PSY Minor program ranged from approximately 75-76% .

1. In lieu of PSY100H1, we will also accept:

PSY100Y5 from UTM, or

• PSYA01H3 and  PSYA02H3 (both) from UTSC.

However, we will  not  accept AP or IB Psychology for this requirement.

2. For students who are missing Gr. 12 Calculus and/or Biology, please see the following link for more information on these requirements and how they can be fulfilled:  https://psych.utoronto.ca/prospective-students/application-information#calculus-accordion-1 .

Major Program

You should consider pursuing the Major Program in Psychology if you want to concentrate in Psychology together with another discipline.

For students who have completed 4.0 to 8.5 credits:

• PSY100H1 (75%) * • Gr. 12 Calculus (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Biology (passing grade)

• PSY100H1 (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Calculus (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Biology (passing grade) • PSY201H1 (or ECO220Y1/​ EEB225H1/​ GGR270H1/​ IRW220H1/​ POL222H1/​ SOC202H1/​ STA220H1/​ STA238H1/​ STA248H1/​ STA288H1), and 1.0 200-level PSY credits from PSY210H1, PSY220H1, PSY230H1, PSY240H1, PSY260H1, PSY270H1, PSY280H1, PSY290H1, with a grade average of 73% *  across all three courses. If more than 1.0 200-level PSY credits have been completed, the two with the highest grades will be used.

* In past admission cycles, the average grade cut-off for the PSY Major program ranged from approximately  78-79% .

Specialist Program

You should consider pursuing the Specialist Program in Psychology if you want a greater concentration in Psychology than provided by the Major Program. Please note that having a Specialist is not required in order to be admitted to a graduate program in Psychology later on.

• PSY100H1 (80%) * • Gr. 12 Calculus (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Biology (passing grade)

To ensure that students admitted to the program will be successful, applicants with a final grade lower than 80% in required courses will not be considered for admission. Please note that obtaining this minimum final grade does not guarantee admission to the program.

For students who have completed 9.0 or more credits:

• PSY100H1 (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Calculus (passing grade) • Gr. 12 Biology (passing grade) • PSY201H1 (or ECO220Y1/​ EEB225H1/​ GGR270H1/​ IRW220H1/​ POL222H1/​ SOC202H1/​ STA220H1/​ STA238H1/​ STA248H1/​ STA288H1), and PSY202H1 (or ECO220Y1/​ SOC252H1/​ STA221H1), 1.0 credits in PSY from PSY210H1, PSY220H1, PSY230H1, PSY240H1, PSY260H1, PSY270H1, PSY280H1, PSY290H1, and a grade average of 75% *  across all four courses. If more than 1.0 200-level PSY credits have been completed, the two with the highest grades will be used.

* In past admission cycles, the average grade cut-off for the Specialist program ranged from approximately 82-83% .

Research Specialist Program

This program is designed for students who have demonstrated a particular interest and aptitude for psychology research and who want to complete a thesis.

Students apply at the end of their second year and begin the program in their third.  Interested students should ideally apply for a PSY Major or Specialist (Non-thesis) at the end of their first year.  All students accepted into or considering the Research Specialist program should enrol into a 300-level PSY lab course in their third year.   In addition to applying via ACORN, students must also send in a supplementary application directly to the department via the Research Specialist Online Application by the same deadlines for Subject POSt enrolment on ACORN.

Admission to the program is based on strong academic performance and expressed interest in research.  Prior research experience is not necessary for admission to the program, but most successful applicants have previous experience in one or more psychology laboratories.  The Research Specialist is a limited program and, therefore, enrolment is restricted to no more than 15 students per year. This is a very demanding program, requiring the balance of extensive in-person research with challenging coursework. Therefore, strong applications provide evidence of exceptional time management skills and the ability to work independently. Eligibility is highly competitive and based on the following criteria (please note that meeting the following minimum requirements does not guarantee admission):

• Gr. 12 Calculus and  Biology (passing grades)
• Completion of at least 9.0 FCEs
• PSY100H1 with a minimum final grade of 80% 
• PSY201H1 (or one of ECO220Y1/EEB225H1/GGR270H1/IRW220H1/POL222H1/SOC202H1/STA220H1/STA248H1/STA288H1) and PSY202H1 (or one of ECO220Y1/STA221H1/SOC252H1/SOC300H1) and PSY203H1  with at least an average of 75% across the three of them
• At least 2.0 FCEs from PSY210H1, PSY220H1, PSY230H1, PSY240H1, PSY260H1, PSY270H1, PSY280H1, PSY290H1, with at least a 78% average across all four of them

How to apply:

1. Request program code ASSPE1958 on ACORN by the deadline for each round of enrolment. 2. Fill out the online supplemental application by the same date:  https://www.psych.utoronto.ca/research-specialist-program-online-application . 3. Email the Undergraduate Administrator your up-to-date CV and academic history from ACORN in PDF format once all grades from the previous semester have been finalized to [email protected] . 4. If invited into the program on ACORN, accept the invitation by the deadline as indicated here .

1. In lieu of PSY100H1, we will also accept:

PSYA01H3 and PSYA02H3 (both) from UTSC.

However, we will  not  accept AP or IB Psychology for this requirement.

2. For students who are missing Gr. 12 Calculus and/or Biology, please see the following link for more information on these requirements and how they can be fulfilled:  https://psych.utoronto.ca/prospective-students/application-information#calculus-accordion-1

3. We will accept equivalent/exclusion statistics courses from UTM/UTSC in lieu of PSY201H1 and PSY202H1. Please contact the Undergraduate Administrator to verify if your stats courses qualify.

Please see the following link to access a video recording of our Research Specialist information session from Friday, March 25 th , 2022:

https://web.microsoftstream.com/video/68ac0431-3769-4685-9eb4-b26cb1165864?list=studio  

Environment & Behaviour Minor Program

Jointly sponsored by the School of the Environment and the Department of Psychology, this program focuses on understanding issues of psychological motivation and attitudes that underlie environmental decision-making. Little positive environmental change can occur in the absence of broad-based behaviour changes.

This is a limited enrolment program. Students must have completed at least 4.0 credits. 

Special Requirement

• Students must be admitted to the Psychology Minor, Major, or Specialist, to be considered for this program.

For more information, please consult the School for the Environment [email protected]  or visit https://artsci.calendar.utoronto.ca/section/School-of-the-Environment#programs .

Certificate in Psychology of Economics and Management

The Certificate in Psychology of Economics and Management will provide students with a specialized curriculum that explores the interdisciplinary connections between social psychology, economics, and business, covering the role of motivation, culture, and leadership in organizations. This certificate would be of interest to students in Economics and Rotman Commerce, and is not open to students pursuing a Psychology Specialist, Major, or Minor.

This is a limited enrolment Certificate. Students must have completed 4.0 credits and meet the requirements listed below to enrol.

Completed courses (with minimum grades) The following courses with the stated minimum grades are required:

•  PSY100H1  (70%) •  RSM100H1  (63%)/  MGT100H1  (63%)/  ECO101H1  (63%)

Special Requirement • This Certificate is open to students not enrolled in a Psychology Specialist, Major, or Minor.

Calculus and Biology Requirements

More information.

Psychology is a Life Science program at the University of Toronto. Ontario students applying to Life Sciences for Psychology at St. George campus must have completed MCV4U (Calculus & Vectors). In addition to Calculus, SBI4U (Biology) is required for all Psychology programs for all students who enrolled at UofT in the fall of 2019 or later . Students who did not attend high school in Ontario must complete the equivalent course(s).

Students educated at a Canadian high school outside of Ontario can consult the Canadian equivalency chart at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/future/ready-apply/admission-requirements/other-canadian-provinces to see if they meet the necessary requirements. 

International students can find more information about equivalencies below or at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/future/ready-apply/admission-requirements .

Please read the following information carefully:

• Students without the Calculus and/or Biology prerequisites must complete the missing course(s) prior to applying for admission to our programs. Proof of completion in the form of a transcript, certificate, or statement of accomplishment submitted to the Psychology Department at [email protected] is required. We do not waive these requirements under any circumstances for any student. 
• We do not factor your Calculus and Biology grades into your Psychology program admission - all that we require is a passing mark.
• Pre-Calculus high school courses do not meet the Calculus requirement.
• Calculus and Biology at the Gr. 9 and 10 levels are not considered equivalent, so we will not accept them.  If your high school only offered either of these courses up to Gr. 11, please email us a link to your high school’s curriculum and we will assess your eligibility.
• Psychology programs are "Limited Enrolment" meaning there is a finite number of spaces and not all who apply and meet the requirements will be accepted. Completing the Calculus and Biology admission requirement does not ensure you will be admitted, so completing these courses is done at your own risk – please keep this in mind. 

More equivalency options are listed below.

Calculus Equivalents

• Complete MCV4U (Calculus & Vectors) through the TVO Independent Learning Centre ( https://www.ilc.org/ ), Virtual High School ( https://www.virtualhighschool.com/ ), Ontario Virtual School ( https://www.ontariovirtualschool.ca/ ), Ontario eSecondary School ( https://oeshighschool.com/ ) or any other Ontario institution offering this course.  *Please note that you may be required to complete the MHF4U prerequisite first, if you haven't already.
• ­    Calculus 12
• ­    AP Calculus (AB or BC)
• ­    IB Mathematics HL or SL (for students who completed the IB diploma up to 2021) 
• ­    IB Math Analysis & Approaches SL and HL 
• ­    IB Math Applications & Interpretations HL  
• Canadian High School equivalents (see https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/future/ready-apply/admission-requirements/other-canadian-provinces )
• A Calculus course offered through any of UofT's three campuses (for example, MAT135H1, MATA29H3, MAT132H5, etc.).  One half-course (0.5) is adequate and there is no grade requirement other than a pass or CR (if the course is taken as a Credit/No Credit option).
• University of Toronto St. George Campus Math Department: Preparing for University Mathematics Program Level 1 (PUMP) ( https://www.mathematics.utoronto.ca/undergraduate/prospective-students/PUMP-courses ).
• University of Toronto Scarborough Campus Online Math Preparedness Course ( https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/ctl/math-and-stats-support ).
• Saylor Academy Calculus course MA005:  https://learn.saylor.org/course/view.php?id=25  with proctored exam certificate of completion.
• Any community college or university course in Calculus. 

If you find a Calculus course not on the above list, please send information about the course in question to [email protected] to determine its eligibility.  If it's on the list above, it means we have approved it - please do not email us to ask if we will accept it.  

Proof that you have completed the Calculus requirement should be sent to the Psychology Undergraduate Office at [email protected] . Please include your UofT student number in your correspondence.

Biology Equivalents

Courses should cover the biology of humans. Here are a few equivalency options you can explore:

• Complete SBI4U (Biology) through the TVO Independent Learning Centre ( https://www.ilc.org/ ), Virtual High School ( https://www.virtualhighschool.com/ ), Ontario Virtual School ( https://www.ontariovirtualschool.ca/ ), Ontario eSecondary School ( https://oeshighschool.com/ ) or any other Ontario institution offering this course.
• ­    Biology 12
• ­    AP Biology
• ­    IB Biology SL or HL
• The following courses at UofT will also be accepted: BIO120H1, BIO130H1, BIO152H5, BIO153H5, BIOA01H3, BIOA02H3, CSB196H1, EEB214H1, HMB204H1 and BIOA11H3 (UTSC course equivalent to Gr. 12 biology). One half-course (0.5) is adequate. There is no grade requirement other than a pass or CR (if the course is taken as a Credit/No Credit option).
• Saylor Academy Biology course BIO101:  https://learn.saylor.org/course/view.php?id=349  with proctored exam certificate of completion.
• Any community college or university course that covers the biology of humans. 

If you find a Biology course not on the above list, please send information about the course in question to [email protected] to determine its eligibility.   If it's on the list above, it means we have approved it - please do not email us to ask if we will accept it. 

Proof that you have completed the Biology requirement should be sent to the Psychology Undergraduate Office at [email protected] . Please include your UofT student number in your correspondence.

• About Our Undergraduate Studies
• Research Specialist Program Online Application
• Current Program Students
• Request new password

Graduate Psychology at U of T

For general information about the graduate program, please follow the links below.

Note: Following these links will take you out of the UT-Mississauga web domain and to the Tri-Campus Psychology program website.

•  Psychology Graduate Program Information

•  Graduate Faculty in Psychology

•  Psychology Graduate Student Association

Additional information from websites maintained by the School of Graduate studies :

•  Graduate Funding and Awards (See also the information posted under "Program Admission" on the Graduate Program Information page linked above)

•  School of Graduate Studies

PhD in School & Clinical Child Psychology

Are you passionate about improving the mental health and well-being of children, youth and families? This program prepares you to become a leader in psychology practice and research in schools, mental health, community and university settings. It also provides you with the academic requirements for becoming a registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO).

Full-time students receive a OISE Graduate Funding Package for their first four years of study. Students who advanced into this program from OISE's Master of Arts in School and Clinical Child Psychology program will receive a OISE Graduate Funding Package for their first three years of study.

OISE's Graduate Funding Package covers the cost of tuition, and helps offset other living expenses. Last year, awards averaged around $25,000 per eligible student.

• Feeling Distressed?
• A-Z Listing
• Academic Calendar
• People Directory

Welcome to the Department of Psychology

Welcome to the UTSC Department of Psychology!  Our department is the academic home to more than 2,500 undergraduate students, enrolled in programs in experimental  Psychology ,  Mental Health Studies , and  Neuroscience . Our  faculty  are engaged in cutting edge research in 5 main areas of psychology and neuroscience:  behavioural neuroscience ,  clinical psychology ,  cognitive neuroscience ,  developmental psychology , and  social-personality psychology . Many of our faculty are also award-winning teachers. 

We are home to the  Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science , through which we offer an MA/PhD in clinical psychology, and we are actively involved in the  Tri-Campus Graduate Department of Psychology , through which we offer a PhD in experimental psychology. We invite you to explore our website and learn more about us!

We invite you to read our department’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement of Acknowledgements and Commitments .

School of Graduate Studies

Counselling psychology, program overview.

The Counselling Psychology program is offered by the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), leading to the Master of Education (MEd) and Doctor of Education (EdD) degrees.

There are three fields:

• Counselling and Psychotherapy (MEd, EdD)
• Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology​ (MEd)
• Guidance and Counselling (MEd)

In the field of Counselling and Psychotherapy, the MEd program provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop counselling skills appropriate for a variety of work settings. Students are encouraged to develop their courses and practicum learning experiences to suit their own goals. Examples of the types of goals for which suitable programs of study could be developed are adult counselling and psychotherapy, college and university counselling centres, career counselling, geriatrics counselling, multicultural counselling, and community mental health and family life centres. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and as a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

Counsellor training in the EdD program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in the educational system, the acquisition of effective supervisory and consultative skills, and the development and assessment of student counselling services in addition to the advanced study of counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of educational counselling; as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling to school, college, and related populations. This option will be especially attractive to individuals who have demonstrated a career commitment to the provision of counselling services in an educational and community setting.

In the field of Guidance and Counselling, the MEd program helps meet the need for well-prepared practitioners in the field of guidance and counselling in the schools. Therefore, strong preference for admission to this degree program is given to experienced teachers who are interested in specializing in guidance and counselling in the schools. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). The MEd program is typically offered on a full-time basis with a limited number of part-time spots available.

Quick Facts

Master of education, program description.

The field in Counselling and Psychotherapy , within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for counselling individuals across a variety of work settings. Students are encouraged to tailor their courses and practicum learning experiences to meet their particular learning goals. Examples of the types of goals for which suitable programs of study could be developed include counselling and psychotherapy with adults, college and university students, or older adults: career counselling; counselling with diverse clients; and counselling and psychotherapy in community mental health and family service settings. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and as a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

The MEd program is typically offered on a full-time basis with a limited number of part-time spots available.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below.

An appropriate bachelor's degree of any background or discipline, with a grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the final year, from a recognized university.

At least one year of relevant counselling-related experience.

Two letters of reference.

Program Requirements

Coursework. Students must complete 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

APD1202H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part I (0.5 FCE).

APD1203Y + Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy (1.0 FCE). The practicum placement is the supervised training component of this course.

APD1214H Critical Multicultural Practice: Diversity Issues in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE; corequisites: APD1202H and APD1302H).

APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1260H Family Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD1261H Group Work in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1302H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part II (0.5 FCE).

1.5 FCEs in electives. Recommended electives: one of

APD1266H Career Counselling and Development: Transition from School to Work (0.5 FCE),

APD1267H Emotion-Focused Therapy (0.5 FCE),

APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood (0.5 FCE),

APD1278H Cognitive Therapy (0.5 FCE).

A comprehensive examination . Upon completion of program course requirements, students must pass a written comprehensive exam of selected topics from the program curriculum and training.

Optional additional practicum, counted as one of the electives. Students may choose to complete a practicum (APD1247H Practicum in Adult Counselling and Psychotherapy ) for an additional 250 hours of field placement concurrent with the required course (APD1203Y + Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy ). Arrangements for the practicum placement must be made in consultation with and the approval of the Director of Clinical Training.

Program Length

5 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W); 10 sessions part-time

3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

+ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

The field in Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology , within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for the field of mental health and counselling psychology in international contexts. Students will be prepared to work in a variety of global applied settings with a focus on mental health. This degree program is ideally suited to students interested in an international perspective of mental health and counselling. This degree is cohort based and is offered full-time only.

An appropriate bachelor's degree, with a grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the final year, from a recognized university.

Normally, an interview is required prior to admission.

APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1228H Couples Counselling (0.5 FCE).

APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (0.5 FCE).

APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health (0.5 FCE).

APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context (0.5 FCE).

APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research (0.5 FCE).

APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master's Level (0.5 FCE).

In consultation with the program chair, students will take APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood , APD1291H Addictive Behaviours: Approaches to Assessment and Intervention , or another elective.

4 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F)

3 years full-time

1) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Medicine (China Medical University)

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and China Medical University (CMU)'s Master of Medicine (MMed) in Psychiatry and Mental Health programs.

In Year 1, students complete MMed coursework at CMU in Liaoning Province, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MMed coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at CMU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Students will gain both degrees in three years rather than the four years it would take to acquire the degrees independently.

Master of Education / Master of Medicine Program Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd/programs/master-education-counselling-psychology-global-mental-health-counselling-psychology-field/med

Master of Education Program Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, University of Toronto Email: [email protected]

Master of Medicine Program Department of Medical Psychology and Mental Health, China Medical University Email: [email protected]

Application Process

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Medical Psychology and Mental Health at CMU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system .

In order to be admitted to the dual degree program, applicants must meet the admission requirements of both programs. The admission requirements of the GMHCP field within the MEd program are stated below.

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Toronto as well as the specific requirements of the MEd program.

An appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a standing in the final year equivalent to at least a U of T B+.

At least one year of relevant counselling experience, which could be paid or volunteer.

Normally, an interview is required prior to admission to the MEd program.

During their U of T registration in the GMHCP field within the MEd program, students must successfully complete a total of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) .

Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MMed courses at CMU.

Students complete the following Year 2 MEd courses at U of T.

Fall session (1.5 FCEs):

APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology .

APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context .

​Winter session (2.0 FCEs):

​ APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy .

APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy .

APD1278H Cognitive Therapy .

APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research .

May-to-June period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

APD1228H Couples Counselling .

July-to-August period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master’s Level .

Fall session (0.5 FCE):

Complete the U of T MEd course APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health . This is a 250-hour placement in an approved field setting and must be arranged prior to admission to this program.

Continue the MMed program requirements at CMU.

Winter and Summer sessions:

Complete the MMed program requirements at CMU.

9 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S/F/W/S)

2) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Science (China Medical University)

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and China Medical University (CMU)'s Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Psychology programs.

In Year 1, students complete MSc coursework at CMU in Liaoning Province, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MSc coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at CMU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Master of Education / Master of Science Program Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd/programs/master-education-counselling-psychology-global-mental-health-counselling-psychology-field/med

Master of Science Program Department of Applied Psychology, China Medical University Email: [email protected]

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Applied Psychology at CMU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system .

At least one year of relevant experience, which could be paid or volunteer.

Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MSc courses at CMU.

Continue the MSc program requirements at CMU.

Complete the MSc program requirements at CMU.

3) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Applied Psychology (Zhejiang University)

Admissions to this dual degree program have been administratively suspended for the 2024-25 admissions cycle.

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and Zhejiang University (ZJU)'s Master of Applied Psychology (MAP) programs.

In Year 1, students complete MAP coursework at ZJU in Hangzhou, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MAP coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at ZJU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Master of Applied Psychology Program Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science, Zhejiang University Email: [email protected]

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science at ZJU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system .

Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MAP courses at ZJU.

Continue the MAP program requirements at ZJU.

Complete the MAP program requirements at ZJU.

The field in Guidance and Counselling , within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for the field of guidance and counselling in the schools. Strong preference for admission to this field is given to experienced teachers who are interested in specializing in guidance and counselling in the schools. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).

Teacher certification.

APD1262H Educational Psychological Testing for Counselling (0.5 FCE).

APD1266H Career Counselling and Development: Transition from School to Work (0.5 FCE).

0.5 FCE in electives.

A comprehensive examination . Upon completion of program course requirements, students will take a comprehensive examination of selected topics from the program curriculum and training.

Optional additional practicum . Students may choose to complete a practicum (APD1247H Practicum in Adult Counselling and Psychotherapy ) for an additional 250 hours of field placement concurrent with the required course APD1203Y + Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy . Arrangements for the practicum placement must be made in consultation with and the approval of the Director of Clinical Training.

Doctor of Education

Advanced counsellor training in this degree program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in educational and community settings with expertise in supervisory and consultative skills and advanced counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of counselling and psychotherapy as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school and college personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling in community and educational settings.

The field in Counselling and Psychotherapy will be especially attractive to individuals who have demonstrated a career commitment to the provision of counselling-related services in an educational and community setting. This professional doctorate is designed to prepare students to refine and build on professional knowledge and practice to support the development of scholar-practitioners to be leaders in their fields of professional practice.

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program is only available on a full-time basis.

Applicants must have the following to be admitted to the EdD program:

A bachelor's degree : an appropriate bachelor's degree of any background or discipline from a recognized university, with high academic standing.

A master's degree : an MA or MEd degree in Counselling Psychology or School and/or Clinical Child Psychology from the University of Toronto with a grade of B+ or better, or its equivalent from a recognized university. The applicant must have had successful professional experience and interest to increase and advance their knowledge of counselling and psychotherapy to become leaders in their fields. Applicants who hold an MEd or other non-thesis master's degree must submit evidence of their ability to identify a research question or problem, to design and conduct a research study or project, and to report the findings or results, all in a rigorous manner. This constitutes a Qualifying Research Paper (QRP).

Coursework. Students must take courses related to the development of advanced competence in counselling, psychotherapy, and mental health theory and practice and become sophisticated consumers of research in these and related fields. Students must complete a minimum of 5.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) including a practicum, internship, and thesis (dissertation in practice) as follows:

APD3115H + Research Proseminar in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

APD3215H Advanced Psychotherapy Seminar (0.5 FCE).

APD3261H + Clinical Supervision and Consultation Practicum (0.5 FCE).

APD3217Y + Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (1.0 FCE; Credit/No Credit): complete a 500-hour practicum before the Final Oral Examination.

APD3270H 0 EdD Internship (0.5 FCE): complete 500 hours of internship, typically after the Final Oral Examination. All internship arrangements must be made in consultation with the Director of Clinical Training.

Three courses, one from each of the following three groupings:

APD3116H Proseminar ll: Practice-Based Research in School and Counselling Psychology

APD3178H Advanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD3160H Advanced Family Therapy (0.5 FCE)

APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems (0.5 FCE) or one elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE).

In addition, students must take 1.0 FCE in their specific area of focus .

Option 1: Counselling and Psychotherapy for Adults

APD3163H Advanced Multicultural Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE)

One elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE)

Option 2: Counselling and Psychotherapy for Schools and Youth

APD5284Y Assessment and Intervention with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (1.0 FCE).

Optional additional practicum. Students may choose to take an optional continuous practicum (APD3271H 0 Additional PhD Practicum ) in conjunction with the required doctoral practicum course APD3217Y + Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (Credit/No Credit).

Thesis (dissertation in practice). All students must complete a thesis (dissertation in practice), the aim of which is to ensure excellent knowledge of counselling and psychotherapy theory, practice, and policy for professionals working with adults or youth to function as leading scholar-practitioners. The thesis (dissertation in practice) should be: a) well conceived, original, and likely to make a sustained contribution to mental health practice; b) involve creativity, innovative methods and techniques, and have the potential to improve practice; c) exemplary, sets high standards in the field, and can be emulated and; d) has the potential for significant public impact. The focus of the thesis (dissertation in practice) is expected to be on contributions to field development or to innovations in practice. Students will defend their thesis (dissertation in practice) at a Final Oral Examination.

Students are full-time and must maintain continuous, full-time registration and pay full-time fees until all degree requirements, including the thesis (dissertation in practice), are completed.

Students cannot transfer between the EdD and PhD programs.

4 years full-time

6 years full-time

0 Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

Counsellor training in this degree program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in educational and community settings with the goal of enhancing their expertise in their professional roles including supervisory and consultative skills and the advanced study of counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of counselling and psychotherapy; as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school and college personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling in community and educational settings.

The field in School Psychology will be especially attractive to practitioners providing direct services to children and youth in the education system (K-12) and will provide school psychology practitioners with core theoretical and practical training needed to develop research-informed leaders in the field of school psychology. The program is structured to provide students with the requirements necessary for registration as a School Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario.

Applicants must demonstrate either undergraduate- or graduate-level competence in each of the five core content areas of psychology: 1) Biological Bases of Behaviour; 2) Cognitive/Affective Bases of Behaviour; 3) Historical and Scientific Foundations of Psychology; 4) Scientific and Professional Ethics (graduate level); and 5) Social Bases of Behaviour, by successful completion of

1.0 full-course equivalent (FCE) at the second-, third-, or fourth-year undergraduate level or

0.5 FCE at the graduate level.

If the above requirements are not met, students must take additional courses to ensure they have completed the above requirements by the end of their program.

APD3401H Assessment with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (0.5 FCE).

APD3402H Intervention with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (0.5 FCE).

APD3403H 0 EdD Internship in School Psychology (0.5 FCE): complete 1,600 hours of internship, typically after the Final Oral Examination. All internship arrangements must be made in consultation with the Director of Clinical Training.

APD3116H Proseminar ll: Practice-Based Research in School and Counselling Psychology.

APD3178H Advanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD3160H Advanced Family Therapy (0.5 FCE).

APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems (0.5 FCE) or one elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE).​

Thesis (dissertation in practice). All students must complete a thesis (dissertation in practice), the aim of which is to ensure excellent knowledge of counselling or school psychology theory, practice, and policy for professionals working with adults or children/youth to function as leading scholar-practitioners. The thesis (dissertation in practice) should be: a) well conceived, original, and likely to make a sustained contribution to mental health or school psychology practice; b) involve creativity, innovative methods and techniques, and have the potential to improve practice; c) exemplary, sets high standards in the field, and can be emulated and; d) has the potential for significant public impact. The focus of the thesis (dissertation in practice) is expected to be on contributions to field development or to innovations in practice. Students will defend their thesis (dissertation in practice) at a Final Oral Examination.

“What I have always found impressive is U of T’s immense library resources.”

Skip to Content

University of Colorado Denver

• Campus Directory
• Events Calendar
• Human Resources
• Student Services
• Auraria Library
• CU Denver Police
• University Policies

Schools and Colleges

• College of Architecture and Planning
• College of Arts & Media
• Business School
• School of Education & Human Development
• College of Engineering, Design and Computing
• Graduate School
• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
• School of Public Affairs

Campus Affiliates

• CU Anschutz Medical Campus
• CU Colorado Springs

Other ways to search:

• University Directory

Clinical Health Psychology PhD Program

Mission statement.

The mission of the Clinical Health Psychology (CHP) program is to train Scientist-Practitioners who receive a generalist-training in clinical psychology, and who acquire additional knowledge and skill in health psychology and behavioral medicine. We promote a practice of clinical psychology that is evidence-based and integrates the findings of relevant scientific research. We encourage our students to engage in both research and clinical work, and to use critical analysis of the empirical literature to inform their clinical interventions. Our graduates are trained to function in a complex, diverse, and pluralistic society, emphasizing ethical principles and developing knowledge and respect for individual, group, and cultural differences.

Program Director : Amy Wachholtz, PhD                             

Program Assistant : Kimberly Hill , Ph.D.

CHP Admissions:   [email protected]

CU Denver and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences have provided clear statements that we must stand together against racism and injustice. The Clinical Health Psychology program is aligned with these values. Please find here a helpful site of resources regarding racial justice.

The Psychology Department at CU Denver offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) with an emphasis in Clinical Health Psychology (CHP). We are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) since 2016 (APA, Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, 750 1st St. NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242; 202.336.5979). Our next site visit is Winter/Spring 2024.  Our program adheres to the scientist-practitioner model. Training emphasizes the contribution of research to the understanding, treatment and prevention of a wide range of health-related concerns, and the application of knowledge that is grounded in scientific evidence.  

In the CHP program, students are trained in a variety of approaches and techniques for evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychological problems. Because our program places an emphasis on health, our students are also trained to assess the psychological factors associated with different medical conditions and learn to design effective interventions that integrate biological, psychological and social (including cultural) factors. Students acquire research expertise by completing a master's thesis and doctoral dissertation and demonstrate competence in clinical assessment and intervention through several applied practica experiences, a clinical competency evaluation, and a pre-doctoral internship. With this broad and intense model of training, our students have gone on to diverse professional postdoctoral fellowships and professional careers. Examples of research opportunities, clinical training opportunities, and post graduate experiences for our students can be found here.

CU Denver is a premier research university in Colorado and the PhD program in CHP was conceived as an important bridge between the Downtown Campus and the Anschutz Medical Campus (AMC).  The program is housed on the Downtown Campus which is located in the heart of Denver close to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, the LoDo District and the state capital.  The Anschutz Medical Campus includes over 5 million square feet of research, educational and clinical space on 227 acres.  The PhD program offers research and clinical opportunities for its students at AMC in addition to the many relationships it has established with other clinical facilities in the Denver area.

The University of Colorado Denver’s CHP program is committed to diversity and fostering inclusion; one in which all individuals- whether from underrepresented, represented, or well represented groups- feel uniquely esteemed, valued and respected.  As psychologists, we understand that a culture of inclusion encourages diverse perspectives and makes our program and students stronger. This is part of our mission to equip future researchers and clinicians to be culturally competent and responsive as they engage in the science and practice of psychology.  Cultural competence and responsiveness in both research and clinical practice is strongly emphasized in our curriculum, clinical training, research, and numerous events in both the University and Denver communities. In our large urban setting, students in our program have excellent opportunities in to expand their research and clinical experience in with regard to diverse and underserved populations, including opportunities in bilingual training. Moreover, students and faculty in the program have a wide range of research interests, including research focused on neurodiversity, varying developmental periods, religious diversity, military couples, physical ability and addiction status, and health and healthcare disparities. Student research regarding diversity is encouraged. Applicants and current students can click the link below for more information about diversity programs at CU Denver.

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Licensure information:

We are an APA accredited program (APA, Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, 750 1st St. NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242; 202.336.5979) and most states and territories in the United States use APA requirements for licensing psychologists, including the state of Colorado.  However, as state requirements may change without any notice to doctoral programs, we are unable to confirm that our program meets the licensure requirements for any specific state or territory.  If you intend to pursue such credentialing and licensing in a different state or territory, we advise you to contact the applicable state credentialing authority to familiarize yourself with its specific requirements and determine if our program meets its eligibility criteria.  Many students find the following link is a helpful place to start in researching a state or territory’s requirements:   https://www.asppb.net/page/BdContactNewPG  . If you have further questions, you are welcome to contact the program director,  Amy Wachholtz, PhD , or the program assistant,  Kimberly Hill  and we will do our best to assist you in your career planning.       

• PhD program information
• Application information
• Research Labs and Student Profiles
• Psychology Clinic
• Program costs and student funding
• Resources and Links
• Program Curriculum

CHP students and faculty

• Website Feedback
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Notices
• Accreditation

© 2021  The Regents of the University of Colorado , a body corporate. All rights reserved.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission . All trademarks are registered property of the University. Used by permission only.