Degree Requirements

  • General Psychology Core (15 credits)

  • Clinical Core (21 credits)

  • Practicum and Internship: Ethics and Professional Affairs (12 credits)
    (see Practicum and Internship note below

  • Research Seminar (3 credits)
    (Thesis or Case Study is 3 credits in addition to Research Seminar)

  • Electives (6-9 credits, depending on above

Candidacy

A student should apply for Candidacy after completing a minimum of twelve credit hours and a maximum of thirty credit hours in the Clinical Psychology program, including at least one year-long clinical course sequence (such as GPS 525-526, or GPS 515-516, or GPS 507-508) and six credits of general core courses (such as GPS 505, 510-511, 513, or 520).  This is done by submitting a Candidacy Form indicating the courses or areas of study that will constitute your degree program. This evaluation will emphasize both the academic and personal characteristics consistent with the requirements of a professional psychologist. In the event that deficiencies are identified, students will be notified in writing, and a meeting will be set with the Director to discuss the faculty's decision. Whenever possible, a plan will be developed with the student to address the difficulties. However, in some cases, students may be asked to leave the program at this juncture.

For questions on Candidacy, please contact the Director, Dr. Ronald Miller, rmiller@smcvt.edu, 802.654.2288.

Transfer of Credit

With approval of the Program Director, a maximum of six credits, not older than five years, may be transferred from another accredited institution, provided a grade of "B" or above has been attained.Credits that have been applied to complete a degree program are not transferrable. Transfer credits will be recorded only after completion of at least twelve credits in the program or upon granting of Candidacy (see above). Students will be charged a $10.00 per-credit fee for transferred credits. Please use the Transfer of Credit Form.  

Practicum

GPS 608-609 First Year Practicum courses provide supervision, clinical training and support for students participating in their first year practicum experience. It is required of all first year, full-time students. Part-time students without prior work experience in a mental health setting must take this course prior to internship 

Internship

GPS 610-611 Internship Ethics and Professional Affairs Seminar I and II are provided in the second year of study. Students earn three or six credits per semester (for two semesters), and work 15-20 hours per week in a clinical setting. It is taken as a three-credit course by students who have taken the First Year Practicum (GPS 608-609). Work as a psychology trainee is under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist, and additional group supervision is provided once a week in the Internship course on campus.

Practicum and Internship Sites:

  • Vermont Hospice
  • Community Mental Health Centers (Outpatient, Rehabilitation services, Mental retardation/development disability)
  • University and college counseling centers
  • Public schools
  • Community hospitals
  • Visiting Nurses Association
  • Department of Corrections
  • Individualized student designed settings

Special Note: Students interested in the M.A. in Clinical Psychology should also request the Handbook for a more detailed program outline.

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For more information, contact:

Tara Arcury
Program Assistant
Founders Hall 105
802.654.2206
Box 105
tarcury@smcvt.edu

Online Inquiry Form