George Fox University | Admissions | Graduate | PsyD | Psy.D. Catalog Information

PSY. D. CATALOG INFORMATION AND COURSES

Program Description

The Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) Program follows a professional (practitioner-scholar) model and is designed to prepare qualified, professional psychologists. The professional model is distinguished from the more traditional scientist-practitioner model leading to the Ph.D. by its greater emphasis upon the development of clinical skills. It provides training in the scientific foundations of psychology and in research methods and statistics, but places greater emphasis on the development of clinical skills. Since the initial endorsement of the doctor of psychology degree by the American Psychological Association in 1979, the professional model has been incorporated into the training programs of many universities and professional schools. The Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology (GDCP) of George Fox University is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association.

The curriculum of the Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology is designed as an integral five-year program. The first two years emphasize study in the scientific foundations of psychology, biblical and theological studies, and an introduction to clinical theory and practice. As the student advances in the program, the emphasis shifts toward application of basic knowledge through integration of these areas, and by their application in clinical practice. Professional training in assessment and psychotherapy begins in the first semester with prepracticum, and continues throughout the program, culminating in the clinical internship.

The goal of the Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology is to prepare professional psychologists who are competent to provide psychological services in a wide variety of clinical settings, who are knowledgeable in the critical evaluation and application of psychological research, and who are committed to the highest standards of professional ethics. The central distinctive of the program is the integration of Christian principles and the science of psychology at philosophical, practical, and personal levels. The program offers specialized training in dealing with the psychological aspects of religious or spiritual issues.

Graduates are prepared for licensure as clinical psychologists. Alumni of the GDCP are licensed psychologists in more than 25 states throughout the United States. They engage in practice in a variety of settings, including independent and group practice, hospital, community and public health agencies, church and para-church organizations, and mission agencies. Graduates also teach in a variety of settings, including colleges and seminaries.

A master of arts degree is conferred following successful completion of the first two years of the program and other requirements (see following). The M.A. degree is not designed or intended as a terminal degree; consequently, only students intending to complete doctoral study are admitted into the GDCP.

Mission

The mission of the Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology is to prepare clinical psychologists who demonstrate:

1. Excellence and professionalism in the clinical skills of assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, consultation, and supervision.

2. Broad knowledge of psychological literature, competence in utilizing the literature in direct service and program development, and the ability to communicate psychological findings to the public.

3. Commitment to the highest ethical standards and practices, as well as holistic models of human personhood and health.

4. Sensitivity and competence in dealing with persons who hold a variety of worldviews from diverse sociocultural and religious backgrounds.

5. Basic knowledge of the Bible and Christian theology, specific knowledge of the scholarly literature in psychology and Christian faith and psychology of religion, and specialized knowledge, attitudes, and skills in the provision of psychological services to the Christian community and others with religious or spiritual issues.

Consistent with the mission of George Fox University, training is carried out within the framework of a Christian worldview and reflects the distinctive Quaker traditions of social service and advocacy for the rights and well-being of all persons, especially those whose opportunities are compromised by prejudice and injustice. This integration of faith and service is a central distinctive of the program.

Clinical Training

Clinical training is an important and integral part of the Psy.D. curriculum. Although it is a distinct part of the curriculum, it is also integrated with the academic course work throughout the program. The clinical training process begins in the first year and continues throughout the program, ultimately preparing the student for postdoctoral residency training and licensure as a psychologist.

The initial step involves prepracticum training, a laboratory course designed to introduce basic legal, ethical, and professional issues and to prepare the student for direct client contact. The course consists of readings, lectures, team meetings, and systematic training in human relations skills, the latter accomplished through supervised group process experiences and interactional dyads. Audio and video recordings of the interaction process are used in supervision to provide effective feedback for the student.

Following the completion of prepracticum training, the student enrolls in Practicum I and II, which proceeds throughout the second and third years. This takes place at a variety of agencies in the community. The practicum sequence provides the student with ongoing, supervised experience in the application of psychological principles in assessment and psychotherapy to a variety of clinical settings with a range of problems and clientele. In addition to supervised clinical experience at the training site, the practicum student is involved in weekly supervision and training at George Fox, including team meetings with peers and faculty members, oversight groups, and didactic seminars.

The preinternship sequence of training follows completion of Practicum I and II, and lasts throughout the fourth year. The preinternship sequence enables students to further develop their clinical skills and to gain the experience necessary to prepare for internship. During the preinternship sequence, students continue to receive ongoing, supervised experience in assessment and psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. Preinternship training also involves supervision of practicum and prepracticum students, weekly team meetings and oversight groups with faculty members, and presentations of advanced topics in a seminar format. The preintern student is encouraged to develop a broad range of clinical skills with diverse clinical populations rather than specialize prematurely. Although specialization is often desirable, it is best done during the internship, or during postdoctoral residency and continued professional training.

The final phase of predoctoral clinical training involves a one-year, full-time internship (50 weeks; 2,000 hours). Most internships require that students move to another location (often to another state) for the internship year. Students are strongly encouraged to obtain APA-accredited or APPIC-recognized internships. The director of clinical training guides students in applying for appropriate internships. The internship is begun in the fifth year and usually consists of a one-year, full-time placement in a single setting, but may be begun in the fourth year and consist of a two-year, half-time placement in one or two settings.

A clinical training file is maintained on each student as he or she progresses through the clinical training sequence. This file contains evaluations, work samples, and clinical competency ratings on each student. Advancement through the clinical training sequence requires approval of the student's advisor, and all internship placements must be arranged through the director of clinical training. (See GDCP Clinical Training Handbook for more information.)

Research Sequence

The research sequence introduces students to statistical methods and research design while cultivating the foundational skills necessary for the critical evaluation of scientific research and clinical programs. In addition, students are given broad exposure to the research literature in clinical psychology and the psychology of religion.

Students participate in vertically integrated research teams beginning in their first year. These teams meet bimonthly with core faculty members as team leaders. Teams consist of small groups of students from each year in the program. During the first year, students visit all research teams to observe and learn about the areas of research being undertaken. In the second year, students choose a team in which they wish to participate throughout the remainder of their experience with the GDCP. Students will then engage in research under the direction of the faculty member who leads the team. This research will culminate in completion and defense of the doctoral dissertation. The research teams provide a mentoring experience for students as they learn about research and engage in their own research under supervision.

The dissertation, which may be empirical, theoretical, or applied, is normally completed during the third or fourth year of the program. The goal of the research sequence is to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for the effective use of the evolving body of knowledge in the science of psychology, and in so doing, to lay a foundation for continued professional growth throughout their careers. (See GDCP Research Policies Handbook for more information.)

Research and Training Facilities

The psychology research lab is located in the Murdock Learning Resource Center on the Newberg campus. High-speed microcomputers, laser printers, and complete statistical (SPSS PC+) and graphics software are provided. In addition to its use for instructional purposes, the lab supports student research projects and dissertations, plus faculty research.

The Murdock Learning Resource Center provides library support for the psychology program. The library has an excellent collection of materials addressing the integration of psychology and the Christian faith and a good collection of contemporary work in most areas of psychology. In addition, the library receives more than 150 periodicals in psychology and related disciplines. Students also have online access to major computerized databases through library services, including PsycINFO, DIALOG, ERIC, and many others. George Fox University maintains cooperative arrangements with other local educational institutions, providing psychology students with a full range of user services, including interlibrary loans and direct borrowing privileges.

The university Health and Counseling Services serves as a training facility for students in the clinical training sequence. The counseling center has six counseling offices and a group therapy room dedicated to training. Training equipment includes video and audio monitoring equipment, one-way mirrors, and recording equipment.

Faculty

Members of the George Fox University faculty bring a wealth of professional experience and a diversity of theoretical backgrounds to the classroom. Among the core psychology faculty are six psychologists and one psychiatrist; five clinical faculty are licensed psychologists who represent varied specialty areas and research interests; and two basic science faculty are specialists in research design, statistical methods, and cognitive psychology. A number of adjunct faculty further enhance the course offerings and specialties available to students in the program.

Theoretical orientations represented by the faculty include psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, object relational, family systems, and psychobiological. Despite their diversity in theoretical orientation, the faculty are united by a common commitment to a Christian worldview, to providing high-quality professional training, and to upholding the highest standards of scholarship and clinical expertise among their students.

Additionally, two of the nine core psychology faculty members, including the psychiatrist, have graduate degrees or course work in theology and religion. Thus, the faculty is well trained to fulfill the stated mission and objectives of the GDCP.

Professional Standards

Standards for graduate education in psychology, as well as for practice of psychology, are set by the policies of the American Psychological Association (APA) through its Committee on Accreditation, and those of the relevant state laws and administrative rules. In Oregon, these include the Oregon Revised Statutes and Oregon Administrative Rules of the Oregon State Board of Psychologist Examiners. The design, structure, and processes of graduate education at George Fox University are influenced by these statutes and policies. Consequently, in addition to the policies of the University's graduate program, students in the psychology program are expected to know and abide by the professional standards established by these regulatory agencies. Both faculty and students are expected to adhere to the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (1992).

Admission

Admission to the psychology program requires a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university. A GPA of 3.0 or above and at least 18 semester hours of psychology or other related social science credits are generally required. In addition, applicants must submit scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Aptitude Scales, including the writing section, the Psychology Subject Test, and complete the general application requirements of George Fox University. Students with graduate credit and those who hold an advanced psychology or theology degree may petition to have as many as 30 hours of credit transferred.

During recent years, the median GPA of admitted students has been about 3.6, and median GRE scores (combined Verbal and Quantitative Aptitude scores) about 1200. Applicants will generally have a GPA of 3.3 or better and GRE scores greater than 1050; however, applicants who show significant promise may occasionally be admitted although they do not meet these criteria.

Students admitted to the GDCP describe themselves as Christian and agree to abide by the community lifestyle expectations listed in the admission application during enrollment in the program.

General Academic Information

Length of Program

The Doctor of Psychology Program is designed to be completed in five years of full-time study, with a maximum of seven years from the date of initial enrollment. The student who is not able to complete the program within seven years must file a letter of appeal for extension with the director of the Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology, outlining plans for completion and providing an explanation of the circumstances that necessitate projecting the course of study beyond the seven-year period.

Continuous Enrollment

Students are expected to maintain continuous enrollment throughout the program. Failure to enroll for a minimum of 3 hours each semester (summer term is excepted) will result in suspension from the program. Re-enrollment will require application for readmission.

Leave of Absence

Students who must temporarily discontinue graduate study for medical or other reasons may arrange a leave of absence of up to one academic year with the approval of their advisor and the director of the Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology. Students who wish to discontinue for longer than one year will normally be required to apply for readmission into the program.

Grading Policy, Scholarship, Probation, and Dismissal

A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is expected in all course work within the program. Students whose work does not meet this requirement will be placed on probation and will be expected to raise their GPA to the 3.0 level in the following semester. Failure to do so may result in academic dismissal.

The following also are grounds for academic probation and/or potential dismissal:
A grade of C in three or more courses.
A grade of D or F in any course.
A failing (no pass) grade in practica.
A GPA below 3.0 for two semesters.
Failure to pass the comprehensive exam by the end of the third year of study.

The Student Handbook and Clinical Training Handbook contain additional information concerning grading practices and other policies and procedures related to student progress in the GDCP.

Student Evaluation

In addition to course grades, an evaluation of each student's academic progress, interpersonal relationships, legal and ethical conduct, and clinical skills is performed annually by the faculty of the GDCP. Practicum supervisors also provide regular evaluations of students' knowledge, skill, and professional attitudes displayed in clinical settings. Students failing to act in an ethical or professional manner, receiving unsatisfactory evaluation by practicum or internship supervisors, failing to comply with George Fox University standards of conduct, or showing other evidence of deficiency in professional development may be dismissed from the program.

Transfer Credit

In some cases, a student may wish to transfer graduate-level course work previously earned at another accredited university or seminary. Guidelines covering transfer credit are stated in the Student Handbook of the Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology and are in addition to general University policies outlined in this catalog. No transfer credit will be granted for Prepracticum, Practicum I and II, Preinternship, or Internship.

Psy.D. Degree Requirements

The doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) degree requires the satisfactory completion of the following:

All required courses=125 semester hours. These hours include:
- 81 hours of psychology courses (scientific foundations, psychological research, and clinical psychology)
- 16 hours of clinical training (Prepracticum, Practicum I and II, and Preinternship)
- 16 hours of Bible/religion
- 12 hours of dissertation.

Comprehensive examination:
The Subject Test in Psychology of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) comprises the M.A. comprehensive examination. Students must achieve a score of 610 on the senior undergraduate norm. Should a student score lower than this minimum level, he or she may retake the examination at the next scheduled administration. Such students may continue to enroll, but will not be admitted to doctoral standing until a satisfactory score on the examination is earned. Failure to do so by the end of the third year may result in dismissal from the program. (See GDCP Student Handbook for additional information.)

Full-time internship: the equivalent of a one-year full-time internship (50 weeks and 2,000 clock hours).

Defense of doctoral dissertation (minimum of 12 semester hours).

Academic Class Standing

For purposes of academic standing by class, the following guidelines are established:
First year: fewer than 30 hours
Second year: 30+ hours to M.A. conferral
Third year: 60+ hours
Fourth year: 90+ hours
Fifth year: internship

M.A. Conferral

The M.A. is conferred as a transitional degree en route to the Psy.D., rather than as a terminal degree. It is conferred following completion of 60 semester hours of course work, including 54 hours of psychology and 6 hours of Bible courses. Psychology course requirements include 4 hours of Prepracticum and 4 hours of Practicum. Specific requirements are listed in the Student Handbook of the Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology, and are marked on the Recommended Sequence that follows. In addition, the student must successfully complete the Comprehensive Examination (see GDCP Student Handbook). A graduation application must be filed with the Registrar's Office one semester prior to the anticipated completion of the requirements for the M.A. degree.

Required Courses in Recommended Sequence

First Year, Fall

PSYC 530 Prepracticum* 2
PSYC 501 Theories of Personality and Psychotherapy* 3
PSYC 502 Psychopathology* 3
PSYC 517 Ethics for Psychologists* 3
PSYC 511 Psychometrics* 3
BIBL 511 Old Testament Studies and Interpretation* 3
Total: 17

First Year, Spring

PSYC 531 Prepracticum* 2
PSYC 505 Human Development* 3
PSYC 512 Statistics* 3
PSYC 521 Personality Assessment* 3
BIBL 521 New Testament Studies and Interpretation 3
Total: 14

First Year, Summer

PSYC 504 Social Psychology* 3
PSYC 5XX Elective 2
Total: 5

Second Year, Fall

PSYC 532 Practicum I* 2
PSYC 513 Research Design and Outcome Evaluation* 3
PSYC 522 Intellectual and Cognitive Assessment* 3
PSYC 552 Cognitive/Behavioral Psychotherapy* 3
PSYC 600 Dissertation - Research Team 1
Total: 12

Second Year, Spring

PSYC 533 Practicum I* 2
PSYC 551 Psychodynamic Psychotherapy 3
PSYC 507 History and Systems 3
PSYC 571 Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Psychotherapy 3
PSYC 5XX Elective* 2
PSYC 601 Dissertation - Research Team 1
Total: 14

Second Year, Summer

PSYC 503 Learning Cognition and Emotion* 3
PSYC 563 Family and Couples Therapy* 3
Total: 6

Third Year, Fall

PSYC 535 Practicum II 2
PSYC 5XX Elective 3
PSYC 509 Psychoneurology 3
PSYC 5XX Elective 3
PSYC 602 Dissertation - Research Team 2
RELI 530 Contemporary Religious Worldviews 2
Total: 15

Third Year, Spring

PSYC 536 Practicum II 2
PSYC 5XX Elective 2
PSYC 541 Multicultural Psychotherapy 3
PSYC 5XX Elective 3
PSYC 603 Dissertation - Research Team 2
RELI 520 Spiritual Formation 2
Total: 14

Third Year, Summer

PSYC 5XX Elective 2
PSYC 5XX Elective 2
Total: 4

Fourth Year, Fall

PSYC 538 Preinternship 2
PSYC 5XX Elective 2
PSYC 576A Integration Seminar 1
PSYC 604 Dissertation - Research Team 3
RELI 551 Historical Theology and Church Traditions 3
Total: 11

Fourth Year, Spring

PSYC 539 Preinternship 2
PSYC 576B Integration Seminar 1
PSYC 5XX Elective 2
PSYC 5XX Elective 2
PSYC 605 Dissertation - Research Team 3
RELI 510 Christian Theology 3
Total: 13

Fifth Year

PSYC 610-615 Clinical Internship

Program Total: 125

*=Required courses for the M.A. degree.