Get trained as a scientist and practitioner in preparation for licensure as a psychologist. Learn how to integrate understanding of spirituality and religion with health service psychology. 

PhD in Counseling Psychology & Special Education

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Year 1

Fall (15 credits)

Winter (15 credits)

Spring (9 credits)

Year 2

Fall (15 credits)

Winter (15 credits)

Spring (6 credits)

Year 3

Fall (12 credits)

Spring (3 credits)

Winter (12 credits)

Summer (3 credits)

Year 4

Fall (6 credits)

Spring (3 credits)

Winter (6 credits)

Summer (3 credits)

Year 5

Fall (2 credits)

Winter (2 credits)

Spring (1 credit)

Summer (1 credit)

Y1
Y2
Y3
Y4
Y5
Detailed Course List

COURSE MAP

Program Overview

The counseling psychology training program at BYU emphasizes the educational, developmental, and multicultural functions of counseling psychologists. Students are prepared to work as counseling psychologists in college counseling centers, academic departments, independent practice, and a variety of behavioral health and educational settings.

Program Requirements

  1. Discipline-Specific Knowledge--which includes training in the history of psychology and the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social basis of behavior. This area also includes integration of the bases of behavior and training in research methods, statistical analysis, and psychometrics.
  2. Profession-Wide Competencies--which include training in research; ethical and legal standards; individual and cultural diversity; professional values, attitudes, and behaviors, communication and interpersonal skills; assessment, intervention, and supervision; and consultation and interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills.
  3. Practicum Training--which includes training at BYU’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and other clinical settings under the supervision of on-site s upervisors and program faculty.
  4. Internship--all students must obtain and successfully complete a year-long internship in an APA-accredited internship site.

How to Apply

All students must submit the following materials:

  • Complete the online Graduate Studies Application
  • Honor Code Commitment and Confidential Report
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • A statement of intent
  • Unofficial transcript uploaded from each institution attended
  • Non-refundable application fee

Additional Recommendations:

  • GPA of 3.4 - 4.0

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Graduation Requirements

  • 111 credit hours (not including prerequisites or skill classes)
  • Residency for a minimum of two consecutive full-time semesters while enrolled (minimum 6 credit hours each semester) on BYU Provo campus.
  • Skill requirements (consult department)
  • Pre-doctoral internship (2,000 hours)
  • Dissertation
  • Examinations
    • Counseling performance evaluations
    • Written comprehensive examination at completion of course work
    • Oral defense of dissertation

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Career Options

Licensed Psychologist

Licensed Psychologist
University Professor

University Professor