Doctorate of Clinical Psychology

Tuition is $1,240 per credit.

This doctoral program prepares students to be scholar-practitioner-psychologists. It focuses on applying psychological science to assessment, intervention, consultation, and supervision. Students gain practical experience through practicum placements, paid internship rotations, and dissertation research.

Focus areas include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy/Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (CBT/ACT), Psychodynamic Psychology, Cross-Cultural & Diversity Psychology, Child, Adolescent, & Family Psychotherapy, Forensic Psychology, Health Psychology.

The program requires 120 credits, distributed across coursework, practicum placements, and a dissertation. It includes a multi-modal pre-practicum, progressively responsible practicum training in years 2-3, and an integrated, accredited internship in years 4-5.

Graduates enter settings such as inpatient/outpatient clinics, hospitals, school counseling centers, private practices, and forensic-related placements.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA (3.5 preferred), and completed courses in statistics, abnormal psychology, and research design. Required documents include transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and essays. The GRE is not required, and applications are reviewed holistically.

The programme totals about 120 credit hours. On Campus, full-time, with an average completion time of 5 years. For international students, tuition is above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 84% of applicants.

A Foundation of History and Academic Excellence

Widener University traces its history back to the Pennsylvania Military College, an origin that continues to influence the institution's commitment to leadership and service. Today, the university has evolved into a comprehensive private institution that emphasizes both intellectual growth and real-world application. Its academic landscape is expansive, featuring over 50 graduate programs and a wide array of undergraduate degrees designed to meet the demands of a modern, global economy.

Research and Hands-On Learning

A core component of the Widener experience is its dedication to experiential learning. The university manages between $8 million and $10 million in annual research grant funding, providing students with unique opportunities to work alongside faculty mentors. This emphasis on discovery is matched by a strong focus on career readiness, with 66% of students participating in co-ops or internships—a figure significantly higher than the national average. Programs such as the 8-month paid co-op allow students to gain professional experience while staying on track to graduate within four years.

Campus Life and Community

The campus serves as a dynamic hub for over 300 annual events, fostering a vibrant social and professional environment. With more than 90 student clubs and organizations, international students have ample opportunities to engage with the campus community, develop leadership skills, and build a network that extends to 65,000+ alumni worldwide. Civic engagement is a pillar of the Widener identity, with participation rates significantly outpacing national benchmarks, reflecting the university's commitment to developing well-rounded, socially conscious individuals.

International Student Context

Widener’s commitment to student success is evidenced by the 93% of the class of 2025 who achieved their career goals within six months of graduation. The university provides a pathway for students to excel in various high-demand fields, supported by a network of faculty and staff dedicated to individual student achievement. By fostering an environment where nearly every undergraduate receives some form of financial aid, the university ensures that a high-quality education remains accessible to a diverse and global student body.