The program adheres to a scientist-practitioner model of training with greater emphasis on scientific training. The major aim is not only to transmit existing knowledge, but to develop constructively critical attitudes and creative skills in psychologists who are dedicated to clinical psychology as a scientific profession, so that they will be able to make useful and novel contributions to the solution of problems arising in clinical settings. All three functions of clinical psychology are stressed: assessment, treatment and research. Objective methods are preferred in assessment, and the major emphasis in treatment is on empirically-based methods. Instruction emphasizes cognitive-behavioural approaches, although reference is also made to other psychotherapeutic approaches as well as physical methods of treatment.
Although students entering with a Bachelor's degree are required to complete both M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees, the Clinical Program is structured as a single program and students are expected to proceed through both degrees. The Department discourages applicants for the M.Sc. program who do not plan to proceed into the Ph.D. program at Queen's. The structure of the Program is found in the Calendar of the School of Graduate Studies. Clinical training extends over both M.Sc. and Ph.D. years, a minimum of four years following the Bachelor's degree being required to complete the Program. While the Program does not train specialists, students are able to concentrate on areas of particular research or clinical interest by taking 3 half course electives in various areas of Psychology (e.g., developmental, health, rehabilitation, social) or with permission, from relevant courses offered in other departments. This requirement was reduced from 4 to 3 half courses in 2001). Students in the clinical program are required to have a minimum of three academic years of full-time, resident graduate study.
Applicants to the clinical program who are recommended by a faculty supervisor to be considered for admission will be asked to participate in an interview. This interview will be with one or more core faculty members from the program and will be recorded for consideration by the clinical faculty. The purpose of the interview is to provide an evaluation of the applicant’s ability to respond to challenging clinical and research situations. The interview will be conducted on an online videoconferencing platform.
The University provides support for students in a number of areas. First, students can access information regarding financial support through the School of Graduate Studies. Second, students can access academic and teaching support through the Centre for Teaching and Learning. Third, students can access counselling and psychological services through the Employee Assistance Program at Queen's. Further, other, more specialized supports are available on campus, including the Positive Space Program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered students, the Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre, and the Disability Services centre for students with access needs.
For more information, visit the General guidelines for Graduate Study page
Specific Instructions for applying to the School of Graduate Studies can be found in the Prospective Students section of the main site.