UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counselling Psychology
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
72 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA)Accreditation
- Minimum 2 years full-time residency on campusDuration
- Maximum 6 years for completionCompletion Time
- Integrates science, practice, and social justice advocacyProgram Model
- Prepares for roles in diverse settings including education, health, and private practiceCareer Paths
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counselling Psychology program at the University of Calgary prepares individuals to become leading researchers, educators, and practitioners in the field. With a commitment to social justice and a generalist approach, the program equips students with the philosophical, theoretical, and research expertise needed to provide effective psychological education and counseling. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in educational institutions, government, social services, healthcare, community agencies, business, and private practice. The program adheres to a scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing the integration of science and practice, critical evaluation of knowledge, and the generation of new insights, all while fostering advocacy for well-being and justice.
Careers
Graduates of the PhD in Counselling Psychology program are prepared for a wide array of professional roles. The program's emphasis on research, practice, and social justice advocacy equips alumni to make significant contributions in various sectors.
- Counselling Psychologist
- Researcher
- Educator (in schools, colleges, universities)
- Practitioner in public and private settings
- Roles in government, social services, health units, hospitals, community agencies, business, and industry
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic and practical requirements for admission to the PhD in Counselling Psychology program?
- A thesis-based Master's degree in Counselling Psychology or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.50 is required. You also need 500 hours of practicum experience, with at least 400 hours supervised by a registered psychologist.
- When is the application deadline for the PhD in Counselling Psychology program?
- Applications and all supporting documents are due by December 1st for the September intake.
- How long does the PhD in Counselling Psychology program typically take to complete?
- The program has a minimum full-time residency of 2 years on campus, with a maximum completion time of 6 years.
- What are the estimated tuition and living costs for international students?
- Tuition and general fees are set annually and can be found on the University of Calgary Finance website and in the Academic Calendar. Estimated living costs are not specified.
- What kind of career opportunities can I expect after graduating from this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Counselling Psychologist, Researcher, Educator, and Practitioner in various settings including public and private sectors, government, social services, and healthcare.
- Does the program offer any scholarships or financial assistance?
- Information on awards and financial assistance is available on the Faculty of Graduate Studies website. Applications for scholarships must be submitted to Graduate Programs in Education by February 1st.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeA thesis-based Master's degree in Counselling Psychology (or equivalent) from an approved university is required. A minimum GPA of 3.50 in the Master's program is necessary. Additionally, 500 hours of practicum experience are required, with at least 400 hours completed under the supervision of a registered psychologist.
Missing Courses/PracticumApplicants missing up to four courses (12 credits) or practicum hours may still be admitted, provided these prerequisites are completed before the doctoral candidacy examination. Students admitted with deficiencies may be designated as qualifying students and required to complete additional coursework or practicum hours.
The program considers Master's degrees from in-person, blended-instruction, and fully online programs to be of equal value. However, admission is highly competitive, and applicants are encouraged to ensure their prior experiences align with the program's expectations for top-tier candidates. A pre-admission checklist is available for guidance.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and general fees are set annually and can be found in the Academic Calendar. Specific fee details are available on the University of Calgary Finance website.
Tuition (home)Tuition and general fees are set annually and can be found in the Academic Calendar. Specific fee details are available on the University of Calgary Finance website.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified in the provided text.
Tuition and fees are subject to annual approval by the Board of Governors.
How to apply
1. Review Program InformationThoroughly review the program brochure, FAQs, and pre-admission checklist to ensure you meet all requirements and understand the program's expectations.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and any other required materials as outlined in the application process.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application by the December 1st deadline.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsEnsure all official supporting documents, including transcripts and any recommendation letters, are submitted by the December 1st deadline.
5. Await Admission DecisionAdmission decisions are typically communicated after the application period closes.
Scholarships
Awards and Financial AssistanceVaries
Accreditation
Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) - Accreditation term: 2020-2026
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic and practical requirements for admission to the PhD in Counselling Psychology program?
+
A thesis-based Master's degree in Counselling Psychology or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.50 is required. You also need 500 hours of practicum experience, with at least 400 hours supervised by a registered psychologist.
When is the application deadline for the PhD in Counselling Psychology program?
+
Applications and all supporting documents are due by December 1st for the September intake.
How long does the PhD in Counselling Psychology program typically take to complete?
+
The program has a minimum full-time residency of 2 years on campus, with a maximum completion time of 6 years.
What are the estimated tuition and living costs for international students?
+
Tuition and general fees are set annually and can be found on the University of Calgary Finance website and in the Academic Calendar. Estimated living costs are not specified.
What kind of career opportunities can I expect after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Counselling Psychologist, Researcher, Educator, and Practitioner in various settings including public and private sectors, government, social services, and healthcare.
Does the program offer any scholarships or financial assistance?
+
Information on awards and financial assistance is available on the Faculty of Graduate Studies website. Applications for scholarships must be submitted to Graduate Programs in Education by February 1st.