The Ph.D. program is designed to train counselling psychologists as researchers, practitioners, educators, and advocates. The focus of the program is on developing doctoral level competence in research, counselling theory and skills, and advocacy. In exceptional circumstances, up to 15 credits of coursework may be waived in recognition of previous coursework. The program involves completion of 30 credits of coursework, theory and specialty comprehensive examinations, a 1600 hour residency and a dissertation meeting Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies requirements. In order for students to meet deadlines for comprehensive examinations and candidacy, the department requires students to be engaged in full time study prior to advancement to candidacy.
Our Doctoral Program follows the scientist-practitioner-advocate model for the training of counselling psychologists; students receive a substantial education as both researchers, clinicians, and advocates. Designed for those with relevant experience who want to gain doctoral level competence, this program enhances research, counselling theory and skills, and advocacy.
Students will be prepared for careers as researchers, practitioners, educators, and emerging leaders in a wide variety of settings including academic, clinical, community, business, private practice, and research.
Graduates hold positions in universities, healthcare organizations, community agencies, research institutes, and private practice, serving as psychologists, professors, researchers, administrators, clinical leaders, and policy and program development specialists.
An indicator of the quality of education is accreditation by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA). Learn more about Counselling Psychology’s accreditation.
Criminal Record Checks
Students admitted to our Master’s and Doctoral programs are required to provide a criminal record clearance prior to taking CNPS 588 – Supervised Clinical Experience in Counselling. The CRC application instruction will be sent out to student later on in the program.
Learn more information about Criminal Record Checks.
Doctoral Student Handbook
Critical information for students, including program requirements, relevant policies, and graduate student information are found in this CNPS Doctoral Handbook
Counselling Psychology Student Association: https://blogs.ubc.ca/cpsaubc/about/