Frequently Asked Questions

The Psy.D. is a degree that emphasizes professional practice skills. The Ph.D. traditionally emphasizes research training. This distinction, however, is sometimes more one of perception than reality. Many Ph.D. – trained school psychologists become practitioners and the Psy.D. program at MSU, Mankato emphasizes research training.

Students will be continuously involved in research. There are several courses in research and statistics. Additionally, students will serve on faculty research teams which meet weekly. Research teams work collaboratively to design studies and collect data. During the first year of the program students are expected to help advanced students collect data. As students advance in the program they take more of a leadership role in research projects. The research team is the context in which students will develop and conduct their dissertation project.

No. The minimum requirement for admission is the completion of a bachelor’s degree. Students with graduate training may be admitted in advanced standing for a shortened curriculum.

We anticipate inviting top applicants for interviews in February or March. More information about interviews will be provided at a later date.

We anticipate admitting up to seven students in the fall of each year. Our first cohort was unusually large with nine admitted students. Our second cohort includes four students.

The curriculum is designed to be completed in five years of full-time study. The five years includes four years of on-campus study and one year of internship. Students who have completed some graduate study prior to admission to the program may be admitted with advanced standing and have the program shortened by as many as 45 credits.

Admissions are competitive based on GRE scores, GPA (overall, major, and last 2 years), research experience, professional experience, letters of recommendation. Students with significant deficits in GRE or GPA may be screened out of the applicant pool early in the process. However, program faculty are permitted to sponsor applicants back into the pool at their discretion. Program faculty review applications and rate them on the above stated materials. Top-rated applicants will be invited for interviews. Students will be informed of admission decisions no later than April 1^st.

Yes. Students with backgrounds in education are also encouraged to apply. Students with any background will be considered but students who lack basic training in psychology or education will have additional pre-requisite courses to complete.

The program is designed to be full-time and delivered on campus. Part-time admissions will be considered under unique circumstances but will not be encouraged. Commuting from long distances would be difficult because classes and practicum experiences will often occur during the same day. Students living out of town should plan to commute every day of the week for classes, practicum, and/or research.
If more resources become available, we hope to modify the program to accommodate working professionals. However, the program is currently housed on campus with courses offered throughout the day.

Funding will be available on a competitive basis within the program. Funding is also available through graduate assistantships in other departments, work study, and student loans. Please contact the College of Graduate Studies and Research and/or the Financial Aid Office for more information.

Please contact the program director, Dr. Daniel Houlihan (daniel.houlihan@mnsu.edu or 507-389-6308), for more information.