In the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, a quiet revolution is taking place. A revolution not of steel and coal, but of the mind and human behavior. Welcome to the fascinating world of West Virginia’s Doctorate in Psychology programs. These programs, steeped in rich academic traditions, offer a unique journey of exploration into the human psyche, while also providing students with the tools needed to create a lasting impact on communities. Whether you’re a budding psychologist yearning to dive deep into the complexities of human thought, or a seasoned professional seeking to elevate your practice, West Virginia is the perfect destination to undertake your doctoral journey. Let us embark on a voyage to unveil the revered halls of academia in West Virginia, where the timeless Appalachians converge with groundbreaking psychological research and practice. Discover how pursuing a Doctorate in Psychology in West Virginia can pave your path to becoming a licensed psychologist in West Virginia.
In addition to its esteemed Doctorate in Psychology programs, West Virginia also boasts a diverse range of Master’s in Psychology programs. These programs provide a valuable opportunity for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge and expertise in the field of psychology.
Doctorate in General Psychology
West Virginia University (WVU) – Ph.D. in Psychology
West Virginia University, located in Morgantown, is a public, land-grant institution that offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Psychology. The program is well-regarded for its comprehensive curriculum that covers a broad range of psychological theories, methodologies, and practices. Students can choose from five areas of specialization: Clinical Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience, Behavioral Analysis, Life-Span Developmental Psychology, and Quantitative Psychology. The university’s psychology department is renowned for its research-oriented approach, encouraging students to participate in projects that contribute to the field’s advancement. WVU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
University of Charleston – Ph.D. in Psychology
The University of Charleston, located in the state’s capital, offers a Ph.D. in Psychology program. This doctoral program is unique in its interdisciplinary approach, blending psychology with insights from fields like sociology, neuroscience, and anthropology. It aims to develop graduates who can apply their knowledge and skills in diverse professional settings, from academia and research to industry and public policy. The program requires a dissertation and offers opportunities for fieldwork and research in various psychology subfields. The University of Charleston is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
West Virginia University (WVU) – Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
West Virginia University, nestled in Morgantown, is known for its Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology. The program emphasizes the scientist-practitioner model, providing students with a robust grounding in both research methodologies and clinical practice. Students learn to conduct empirical research, provide psychological assessment and intervention services, and work effectively in both academic and clinical settings. The program has been continuously accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) since 1972, a testament to its consistently high quality.
Marshall University – Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology
Marshall University, located in Huntington, offers a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree in Clinical Psychology. This program has a practitioner-scholar model orientation and is designed to prepare students for careers providing psychological services in rural areas. It focuses on evidence-based practice, ethical professional conduct, cultural competence, and social justice. Students participate in extensive clinical practicum placements and internships in rural community settings. The program is fully accredited by the APA.
University of Charleston – Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
The University of Charleston offers a Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology. Please note that while the University of Charleston is an accredited institution, it is important to verify the accreditation status and program specifics directly from the university. The Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology at the University of Charleston is designed to provide students with comprehensive training in both research and clinical practice. The program prepares graduates to become competent clinical psychologists capable of providing evidence-based assessment and interventions to individuals, families, and communities. The curriculum combines coursework, supervised clinical practicum experiences, and research training. Students receive a strong foundation in psychological theories and research methods, along with specialized courses in clinical assessment, psychotherapy, and psychopathology.
Click here for Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in the state of West Virginia.
Doctorate in Counselling Psychology
West- Virginia University- Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology
As a land-grant institution, West Virginia University in Morgantown offers a Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology that follows the scientist-practitioner model. This emphasizes both research and clinical practice to equip students with the necessary skills to contribute to the field of psychology. This program is designed to foster a deep understanding of human behavior and mental processes, emphasizing multicultural competency and ethical standards. Students are encouraged to undertake research projects that align with their interests and career goals. WVU’s faculty offers expertise in a wide range of areas, including mental health disparities, trauma, substance use disorders, and vocational psychology. The curriculum also includes intensive practical experience through internships and supervised practice, preparing students for careers in a variety of settings, including academic, research, and clinical environments.
Marshall University: Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology with a Developmental Psychology focus
The Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology at Marshall University is an advanced graduate program designed to prepare students for professional practice in the field of psychology. Accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), this program places a strong emphasis on the practitioner-scholar model, which combines rigorous academic training with intensive practical experience. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including psychological assessment, psychotherapy, human development, and professional ethics, with an option to focus on developmental psychology. This focus allows students to delve deeper into understanding the complex processes of human growth and transformation across the lifespan.
Doctorate in School/Educational Psychology
Marshall University – Ed.D. in Leadership Studies – School Psychology Specialization
Marshall University, located in Huntington, offers an Ed.D. in Leadership Studies with a specialization in School Psychology. The program is designed to provide students with the leadership skills necessary to make significant contributions to the field of school psychology. Students will gain a deep understanding of psychological and educational principles, and learn how to apply these principles in real-world educational settings. The curriculum focuses on professional practice and research, with students required to complete a dissertation. Marshall University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
West Virginia University – Ph.D. in School Psychology
Located in Morgantown, West Virginia University offers a Ph.D. program in School Psychology. The program follows the scientist-practitioner model, preparing students to conduct research and provide psychological services in schools and other educational settings. Students learn about assessment, intervention, prevention, consultation, and research methods, and are required to complete an internship and a dissertation. The program is designed to prepare graduates for licensure as a school psychologist and for careers in academia, research, and practice. West Virginia University’s Ph.D. in School Psychology is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Doctorate in Behavioral Psychology
West Virginia University (WVU) – Ph.D. in Psychology with a Behavioral Analysis Specialization
West Virginia University, located in Morgantown, offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a specialization in Behavioral Analysis. This program is designed for students who are interested in the experimental, theoretical, and applied aspects of the analysis of behavior. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, from basic principles of behavior to applications of these principles in real-world settings. The Behavioral Analysis specialization prepares students for careers in research, teaching, and practice in a variety of settings, including academia, healthcare, business, and government. West Virginia University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Doctorate in Developmental Psychology
West Virginia University: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Life-Span Developmental Psychology
West Virginia University (WVU), accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), offers a comprehensive doctoral program in Life-Span Developmental Psychology. This program emphasizes interdisciplinary perspectives, with the aim of understanding how humans grow and change throughout their lives. It combines coursework, research, teaching experiences, and mentorship to prepare students for successful careers in academia, research, and applied fields. The curriculum’s flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to personal interests, such as cognitive development, social development, or aging. Renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous research opportunities contribute to an enriching learning experience at WVU age and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), ensuring a top-quality education.
Doctorate in Behaviour Analysis
West Virginia University- Doctorate in behavior analysis
The Doctorate in Behavior Analysis program at West Virginia University focuses on training students in fundamental research, theory, and practical applications of behavior principles. The program encompasses a comprehensive curriculum that integrates basic research, conceptual understanding and applied analysis of behavior. Through engaging in research projects, coursework, and practical experiences, students develop a strong foundation in both experimental and applied behavior analysis. They acquire essential skills and knowledge to design and implement behavioral interventions, as well as to conduct rigorous research in behavior analysis. The program emphasizes the integration of basic and applied research within the curriculum, allowing students to explore their interests and specialize in either basic or applied research. This flexibility enables students to tailor their studies to align with their career goals and research aspirations.
Doctorate in Other Programs
West Virginia University- Ph.D. Sport, exercise, and Performance Psychology
The Doctorate in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology program at West Virginia University offer students a comprehensive curriculum delivered by highly qualified faculty members. This program combines academic rigor, extensive research experiences, and applied consulting opportunities to cultivate competent and well-rounded professionals in the field. Students in the program have the opportunity to pursue their own research interests and collaborate with faculty members to produce scholarly publications. They are expected to complete three research benchmarks in addition to their dissertation, providing them with hands-on experience in conducting independent research.