phd in psychology toronto

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Psychology: psychology phd.

The principal aim of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program is to equip students with the skills to carry out advanced research within experimental psychology, and to become independent research scientists. Students work closely with a faculty adviser to develop and conduct a specialized (often multidisciplinary) program of research that ultimately culminates in a written dissertation and final oral examination. Through additional coursework and research opportunities, students gain breadth in their knowledge base and skill set in experimental psychology. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, or a variety of non-academic careers where rigorous and in-depth research training is required.

PhD Program

Minimum admission requirements.

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Psychology's additional admission requirements stated below.

Appropriate University of Toronto master's degree, or its equivalent from a recognized university, with a minimum A– average and adequate research performance.

Completion Requirements

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

0.5 FCE: an advanced statistics course chosen from a list provided by the department (typically PSY2002H Statistics II , taken in Year 1).

PSY3000H External Research Project , a research project course supervised by a faculty member other than the student's PhD supervisor, completed during Years 1 and 2.

PSY3001H Professional Psychology , taken in two modules in Years 1 and 3.

1.0 FCE in Psychology course electives. Of this requirement, 0.5 FCE can be achieved through two 0.25 FCE Psychology module electives ( PSY3100H Psychological Science Skills ).

PSY4000H Doctoral Research Project , thesis proposal, and oral exam (examination in the student's area of research).

PhD thesis .

Students may take other courses, but it is expected that the requirements will be completed in the first two years of the PhD program. Students admitted with a master's degree from another university will normally be required to fulfil the PhD course requirements; however, exemptions may be granted by the Graduate Director of the Department of Psychology.

PhD Program (Direct-Entry)

Appropriate University of Toronto bachelor's degree, or its equivalent from a recognized university, with a minimum A– average and adequate research performance.

Applicants with a master's degree in Psychology or a cognate discipline will likely be admitted to the four-year PhD program, whereas students with a master’s degree in an unrelated discipline will be admitted to the direct-entry PhD option. Such admission decisions will be made by the Graduate Director.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

PSY1100H Foundational Research Project , a research project course supervised by the student's supervisor plus two other faculty members, completed during Years 1 and 2.

PSY2001H Statistics I , taken in Year 1.

PSY3000H External Research Project , a research project course supervised by a faculty member other than the student's PhD supervisor, completed during Years 2 and 3.

2.0 FCEs in Psychology course electives. Of this requirement, 0.5 FCE can be achieved through two 0.25 FCE Psychology module electives ( PSY3100H Psychological Science Skills ).

Students may take other courses, but it is expected that the requirements will be completed in the first three years of the PhD program. Students admitted with a master's degree from another university will normally be required to fulfil the PhD course requirements; however, exemptions may be granted by the Graduate Director of the Department of Psychology.

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Graduate Psychology at U of T

For general information about the graduate program, please follow the links below.

Note: Following these links will take you out of the UT-Mississauga web domain and to the Tri-Campus Psychology program website.

•  Psychology Graduate Program Information

•  Graduate Faculty in Psychology

•  Psychology Graduate Student Association

Additional information from websites maintained by the School of Graduate studies :

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•  School of Graduate Studies

School of Graduate Studies

Counselling and clinical psychology – field in clinical and counselling psychology (oise), program overview.

Clinical and Counselling Psychology is one of two fields offered in the Counselling and Clinical Psychology program, leading to the Master of Arts  and  Doctor of Philosophy  degrees. This program is intended for students seeking to pursue careers in research, teaching, and clinical practice. At the time of application, prospective students will be required to identify a preference for this field and a potential supervisor with whom they would work if admitted to the program.

The Clinical and Counselling Psychology field is offered primarily by the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development​  (of the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education [OISE] at the downtown St. George campus).​

The other field, Clinical Psychology, is offered primarily by the  Department of Psychological Clinical Science  at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) campus.

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Clinical Psychology

The program is designed to train professional psychologists at the doctoral level within a scientist-practitioner orientation. The curriculum was developed to meet all the requirements for registration with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. The program was first accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association in 2012, and it was re-accredited in 2022 for a 5-year term (until 2026-2027) (Accreditation Office, CPA, 141 Laurier Avenue West, Suite 712, Ottawa, Ontario, K1P 5J3;  [email protected] ).

The curriculum includes courses covering core clinical topics (e.g., psychopathology, psychological assessment, psychological treatment, culturally-informed clinical practice, supervision, consultation, professional issues and ethics), research methods and statistics, and other topics related to both clinical psychology and other  core areas  of psychology.

The program also includes clinical practicum placements, providing an opportunity to put new skills into practice. Clinical practica can take place in our own Psychology Training Clinic, as well as a wide range of local hospitals, mental health agencies and clinics, university counselling centres, schools, and private clinical practices.

A minimum of 11 courses (including one clinical practicum) are required at the  MA level . These courses, along with an MA thesis, are completed in 2 years.

For the  PhD , eight courses are required (including two clinical practica). All PhD students in the clinical area also complete a doctoral dissertation, as well as a comprehensive breadth requirement, and a full-time clinical internship in the final year of the PhD. Including the internship, the PhD is expected to be finished in 4 years, after the MA is completed.

Psychology Training Clinic

A partnership between Toronto Metropolitan University and St. Michael's Hospital. Read more >

Read all the details on our curriculum and degree requirements here >

Why Toronto Metropolitan University?

See More Student Spotlights  

"I chose Ryerson [Toronto Metropolitan University] for many reasons, but primarily because I was drawn to the collaborative nature of the program and the ample opportunities available for clinical and research training." Brittany Jamieson, PhD student

For the documents below, if you are unable to open the document or get an error message (e.g., "Please wait..."), please right click on the link and choose Save As... then open it using  Adobe Acrobat Reader  (external link)     Program Statistics

•  (PDF file)  Applications, Offers & Enrolments
•  (PDF file)  Internship Applications
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•  (PDF file)  Students' Activities

Note: Adobe Acrobat Reader  (external link, opens in new window)  is required to view these documents.

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Psyd programs toronto: a detailed guide.

Table of Content

Key Takeaways: PsyD Programs Toronto

• PsyDs emphasize practical clinical skills to diagnose and treat mental health conditions as a psychologist practitioner over research training.
• High local psychology career demand and reputable doctoral programs make Toronto an advantageous location to pursue PsyD training.
• Competitive applicants have strong undergraduate academics, high GRE scores, psychology backgrounds and excellent letters of recommendation.
• Typical full-time PsyD curriculums blend coursework, research and intensifying clinical placements over 5 years plus an internship.
• PsyD clinical hours help grads meet future registered psychologist requirements more easily than PhD routes.
• Carefully weigh research, placement, curriculum and other priorities in finding your best fit from quality Toronto PsyD programs.
• Ongoing local psychology shortages signal Doctor of Psychology program offerings will continue expanding ahead at Toronto universities.

Earning a PsyD can lead to fulfilling careers improving mental wellbeing across diverse populations. As Psychology job openings outpace supply in Canada’s healthcare sector for years ahead, proper training from an accredited Toronto program offers bright prospects to secure in-demand clinical psychologist roles.

PsyD stands for Doctor of Psychology, and PsyD programs in Toronto allow students to earn this professional degree focused on clinical psychology practice. Unlike a PhD in psychology which emphasizes research, PsyD programs emphasize the practical application of psychology theories and clinical skills.

Pursuing a PsyD program in Toronto can open up career paths in psychology research, teaching, and most commonly, mental healthcare in clinical settings. As the demand for qualified mental health professionals continues rising, a PsyD degree becomes increasingly valuable in Toronto’s job market.

This comprehensive guide explores all aspects of applying to and completing a PsyD graduate program in Toronto. It covers the admissions process, program options, curriculum details, career outlook, and more to consider when researching PsyD programs in Toronto.

What is a PsyD?

A Doctor of Psychology or PsyD is a professional doctorate degree specifically focused on gaining expertise in clinical psychology practice. PsyD programs aim to develop psychology practitioners who can assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders through evidence-based therapies.

While PsyD programs include research training, they place far more emphasis on applied clinical experience compared to a traditional PhD in psychology. PsyD students complete rigorous clinical practicums and internships to gain extensive hands-on skills seeing patients.

In many cases, PsyD programs allow graduates to register for clinical psychologist licenses after meeting set supervision requirements. These programs create qualified mental health professionals ready to provide therapy in Toronto hospital systems, private practices, community health centers, and more clinical settings.

PsyD vs PhD in Psychology

It’s important to understand the key differences when exploring both Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduate programs. While there is overlap, these two psychology doctorates serve different primary purposes:

PsyD Focus: Clinical Practice

PsyD degrees concentrate on gaining skills that will be directly relevant to clinical psychology practice:

• Diagnostic assessment
• Individual and group psychotherapy
• Evidence-based treatment methods
• Psychological testing
• Interventions across diverse populations
• Clinical supervision/consultation
• Practicum/internship experience

PhD Focus: Research & Academia

PhD psychology programs focus more heavily on research competencies required for academic or scientific careers:

• Developing original experiments
• Analyzing/publishing research
• Data analysis methodologies
• Lab management
• Grant proposal writing
• Teaching psychology theories

In short, those wanting to conduct research and teach at the university level tend to pursue a PhD, while PsyDs open more avenues to licensed clinical practice.

Many graduates leverage both the research and clinical elements of these advanced psychology degrees. But it’s wise to decide whether you ultimately want to prioritize research or practical patient skills when applying to doctoral programs.

Why Earn a PsyD in Toronto?

Pursuing a Doctor of Psychology specifically in the Toronto area can be an excellent choice given rising psychologist career prospects, PsyD program quality, and abundant clinical opportunities available locally:

Growing Psychology Career Demand

Mental healthcare continues expanding rapidly in Ontario and across Canada. Psychology is projected to be one Canada’s top professional careers for job growth over the next 10 years.

The psychology profession as a whole is expected to see 22% more job openings by 2028 – much faster than average job market growth. Clinical and counseling psychology roles make up a major portion of these fast-growing psychologist positions.

A PsyD degree gives graduates the credentials in highest demand at healthcare employers hiring mental health professionals in Toronto and nationwide.

High-Ranked Doctoral Programs

Toronto university PsyD programs rank among Canada’s most reputable and competitive. Institutions like Ryerson University attract large applicant pools seeking limited program spots each year.

Graduating from a prestigious, rigorous PsyD program can give job applicants an edge when competing for top psychologist roles. Toronto PsyD alumni often gain advantages progressing into competitive clinical residencies, private practices, hospital systems and academic programs.

Abundant Clinical Training Opportunities

PsyD students complete intensive clinical practicums preparing them to deliver psychotherapy and mental health assessments. Toronto provides no shortage of quality training placement sites across diverse healthcare settings:

• Hospital psychology departments
• Community health clinics
• University counseling centers
• Private practices
• Social service agencies
• Correctional facilities
• Specialized care facilities

This wide range of clinical site options allows PsyD programs to train students extensively across demographics and mental health situations. Hands-on exposure during the PsyD equips graduates to enter practice confidently in Toronto’s dynamic healthcare environment.

In summary, Toronto offers an ideal location to train in an applied clinical psychology doctorate program. PsyD grads enter an abundant job market hungry for their in-demand mental health expertise.

PsyD Admissions Requirements Toronto

Doctor of Psychology programs have highly competitive admissions just as rigorous as PhD programs. Typical PsyD admissions requirements include:

Prerequisite Bachelor’s Degree

• Bachelor’s in Psychology, Behavioral Science, Clinical Health – with recommended 10-15 related undergraduate courses. Competitive applicants generally have a major or double major in psychology.

Minimum Undergraduate GPA

• Most programs require around a 3.0 CGPA minimum from a bachelor’s degree. The average accepted applicant often holds a GPA of 3.5 or above.

Graduate Record Exam (GRE) Scores

• Competitive applicants score around 300 combined on GRE verbal and quantitative sections. Top programs expect scores in at least the 50th percentile.

Academic Letters of Recommendation

• 2-3 recommendation letters from undergraduate professors or psychology research advisors evaluating the applicant’s abilities.

Personal Statement

• An essay outlining the candidate’s academic interests, clinical aspirations, research experience, and preparation for doctoral study.
• An admissions interview allows faculties to further assess students on clinical/research competencies and fit within their PsyD program.
• Work experience in psychology, research or volunteer background, and other extras can also strengthen an application when applying to competitive programs.

Meeting just the minimum PsyD requirements won’t guarantee admission, as applicants are evaluated holistically on all aspects of their application package.

PsyD Programs Toronto Universities

While still small in number, some of Canada’s most prestigious PsyD programs exist right in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Here are the main universities currently offering Doctor of Psychology graduate programs locally:

Ryerson University

• Ryerson PsyD Clinical Psychology

Ryerson has one of Canada’s only APA accredited PsyD programs and is highly competitive each application cycle. Their 5-year program focuses on adult populations and integrating theory with clinical work.

Program Details:

• 115-121 credits
• 750+ hour internship
• $7,260 approximate annual domestic tuition
• Extensive research and clinical placements

University of Toronto Scarborough

• UTSC Clinical Psychological Science PsyD

This APA accredited 5-year PsyD concentrates on using psychological science to inform evidence-based practice. Students complete major adult and child clinical placements.

• 123 credits
• 750 hour internship
• $8,780 approximate annual domestic tuition
• Research and clinical research streams

The program was previously jointly offered by the University of Toronto and OISE Graduate School of Education. After becoming solely a UTSC program in 2021, the inaugural graduate cohort under the new structure begins Fall 2023.

Adler University (Toronto Campus)

• Adler University PsyD in Clinical Psychology Program

Adler University has several North American campuses but its only Canadian location is in Toronto, Ontario. Their PsyD program follows Alfred Adler’s humanistic psychology theories.

• 126 credits
• Two 1,500 hour internships
• Course-based with no specific dissertation
• Small class cohorts

Typical PsyD Curriculum Overview

While curriculums have some variability across PsyD programs, most follow a similar framework balancing research, clinical coursework and hands-on placements. Expect core courses like:

Year 1: Foundational Courses

• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Personality Theories
• Psychopathology
• Ethics in Psychology
• Statistics/Research Methods
• Psychological Assessment

Year 2: Advanced Concepts

• Psychotherapy Approaches
• Evidence Based Treatments
• Psychopharmacology
• Cultural Psychology
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Year 3-4: Clinical Placements

• Practicums Rotations
• Comprehensive Practice Exams
• Diagnostic Testing
• Individual/Group Counseling
• Internship Preparation

Year 4-5: Concluding Elements

• Dissertation/Capstone Research
• Internship – 750+ clinical hours
• Board Exam Preparation

Clinical practicums gradually increase until the final full-time supervised clinical internship. This exposes students to diverse real-world psychology practice over 1500+ hours before graduating.

PsyD vs PhD Curriculum Differences

Comparing curriculums shows the clinical emphasis in PsyD programs versus research focus on PhD psychology tracks:

PsyD Curriculum

• More course-based instruction
• Increased hands-on clinical training
• Two years full-time practicums/internship
• More psychological testing/evaluation
• Diagnostics, psychotherapy and interventions
• Licensing exam preparation

PhD Curriculum

• Early research lab placements
• More overall research credits
• Developing experiments
• Defending dissertation
• Teaching assistant roles
• Publishing papers

PsyD programs allow graduates to count clinical hours towards meeting registered psychologist license requirements after graduation. These robust clinical training elements stand as the biggest contrasts from typical PhD psychology curriculums.

Career Pathways With a PsyD Degree

Earning a Doctor of Psychology opens doors to a breadth of psychology career paths. But compared to PhDs, PsyDs often prepare graduates specifically for professional clinical practice.

Here are some of the top occupations Toronto PsyD graduates pursue:

Licensed Psychologist

Over 60% of PsyD grads pursue meeting registered psychologist requirements to provide psychological therapies, testing and assessments across settings like:

• Community mental health clinics
• Group/private practice
• Psychiatric hospitals
• University health centers

After supervised practice post-graduation, PsyDs have strong qualifications to obtain registered psychologist status.

Psychological Associate

Without completing further registration, PsyD holders also frequently work initially as psychological associates or psychometrists conducting assessments under supervision of licensed psychologists.

Post-Doctoral Residencies

Competitive hospital systems, community clinics and other facilities often have 1-2 year specialized residency programs for early career PsyDs to gain added clinical experience in advanced practice areas. These provide advanced training and mentorship before independent practice.

Academia & Research

Some PsyDs leverage their clinical research training to teach psychology courses as university faculty or lecturers. PsyD research skills also transfer into program evaluation, staff training, quality assurance roles and projects in healthcare settings.

In summary a Toronto PsyD degree is tailored for multiple career routes applying clinical skills in advanced psychologist practice, psychological research, higher academia or specialized clinical settings.

PsyD Program Considerations

Before applying to Doctor of Psychology programs, there are a few key considerations to weigh regarding PsyD training focus, timelines and costs:

Time Commitment

• PsyDs take 4-6 years post-bachelor degree including internship and dissertation. Programs average 5 years full-time.
• Expect a demanding hour commitment balancing research, coursework and 20-25 clinical placement hours weekly in later years.

Financial Investment

• Annual Toronto PsyD tuition often ranges from $7,000 to over $10,000 for domestic students depending on specific programs.
• Additional costs come from textbooks, fees, clinical travel and dissertation expenses over 4+ years.
• Financial aid like graduate scholarships and student loans can offset costs.

Program Compatibility

• A central PsyD application consideration is whether program research, clinical placements and curriculum align with your specific career aspirations.

In the end, dedicating 5 years to doctoral clinical psychology training can pay dividends over a 30+ year professional career span. But the demands of completing a Toronto PsyD call for carefully weighing program elements against individual factors.

Choosing the Best PsyD Program in Toronto

Start weighing PsyD programs by making a checklist of your top priorities – location, cost, research type, clinical placements, specialty focuses, licensure goals or other personal considerations.

Review curriculum details, clinical partnerships, research outputs and other program factors against your priorities. Visit campus if possible to directly assess program culture and professor expertise.

If fully licensed practice is your goal after graduating, also examine licensure pass rates amongst program alumni. Some questions to explore:

• What licensure exams are graduates taking (EPPP, EPPP2)?
• How many program graduates pursue registration?
• What is the licensure exam pass rate for program alumni?

These indicators help determine how well a program specifically prepares students for meeting Licensed Psychologist or other designation requirements post-graduation.

In the end, finding best personal PsyD program fit depends most on which Toronto option offers robust research and clinical training matching your career aspirations in professional psychology practice.

Future PsyD Program Growth

While Toronto currently has limited Doctor of Psychology options compared to the United States, local program availability continues expanding to meet rising psychology labor demands.

Both provincial and national surveys of the psychology profession consistently cite the same shortages across Canada:

• Shortage of registered clinical psychologists to meet mental healthcare needs
• Shortage of accredited psychology residency positions required before registration eligibility

These shortfalls have Canadian psychology academic leaders calling for major increases in clinical psychology graduate student enrolment over the next decade. Clinical psychology doctorates like the PsyD directly provide the highly skilled practitioners and future faculty needed to help correct national shortages.

Several Ontario universities have recently added undergraduate psychology degrees indicating more graduate psychology expansion ahead. The University of Guelph-Humber launched their first bachelor’s in psychology degree in 2018. Ontario Tech University unveiled a new B.Sc. psychology program in 2021.

These newer undergrad offerings will feed more prospective PsyD applicants from local student populations into Ontario’s graduate admissions pipeline.

In turn, growing demand for more accredited PsyD programs will likely prompt additional Toronto universities to launch Doctor of Psychology degrees over the coming years.

The emergence of Canada’s first private, APA accredited clinical psychology PhD program also sets an interesting precedent. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology opened a Toronto campus in 2013 followed by their research-focused PhD program in 2018.

While private PsyD programs have existed for decades in the USA, this milestone marked Canada’s first private sector clinical psychology doctorate. If successful over the long-term, the Chicago School’s unique PhD track may inspire similar private Doctor of Psychology initiatives in Ontario.

Regardless if more private or public university efforts arise, Toronto will almost certainly offer more quality PsyD education options catering to swelling enrollment demand within this decade.

FAQs: PsyD Programs Toronto

Are psyd programs apa accredited in canada.

Currently Ryerson University and University of Toronto Scarborough run Canada’s only two APA accredited clinical psychology PsyD programs. Adler University’s PsyD holds accreditation from the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) instead.

How competitive are PsyD program admissions?

Toronto PsyD programs admit only around 12-20 students per cohort, so spots are extremely competitive. Acceptance rates often fall between 2-8% given applicant pools are 100+ students each cycle. Applicants should plan to apply to multiple programs.

Can I work while completing a full-time PsyD?

PsyD programs strongly discourage working during the program given heavy course, research and intensive 30-40 hour/week practicum commitments. Some students continue limited part-time employment, but should expect 60-80 hour weekly obligations balancing program demands.

Are internships paid during PsyD training?

No students complete unpaid placements for clinical hours requirements at hospitals, clinics or community agencies. But full-time internships lasting 9-12 months are demanding and programs discourage working another job simultaneously.

How much salary can I expect after graduating my PsyD?

Many new Toronto PsyD graduates earn around $70,000-90,000 annually starting as psychological associates, program evaluators or clinical coordinators. Licensed psychologists average over $100,000 as they gain experience.

How long does it take to become a registered psychologist?

After completing a 4-5 year PsyD, graduates pursuing registration must still complete a 1 year supervised residency, pass EPPP licensing exams, and finish additional supervised clinical practice meeting CPA requirements – which overall can total 2-5 more years.

Are there PsyD programs in Ontario?

Yes, there are a few quality PsyD degree programs currently offered at universities in Ontario. The top options are Ryerson University and University of Toronto Scarborough in the Toronto area, along with Adler University’s Toronto campus PsyD program. These CPA or APA-accredited Doctor of Psychology degrees meet growing demand for qualified clinical psychology practitioners across Ontario.

How long is a PsyD program in Canada?

Typical PsyD programs in Canada take around 5 years to complete full-time. This includes 1-2 years of foundations coursework, 2 years of advanced concepts and intensifying clinical placements, then a final year for concluding elements like a dissertation and 750 hour supervised clinical internship. Total credits usually range from 115-126 depending on the university.

Can you get a PsyD without a Masters in Canada?

Yes, almost all Canadian PsyD programs allow students to enroll directly after completing an undergraduate degree. PsyDs operate as standalone professional doctorates similar to other direct-entry programs like Physiotherapy or Pharmacy. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree in psychology or related major, not a masters.

How much do PsyD make in Canada?

Many PsyD graduates begin as psychological associates or coordinators earning approximately $70,000-90,000 annually starting out. Once registered as licensed psychologists, pay increases significantly. The average salary for experienced psychologists in Canada is over $100,000 according to government labour data. PsyDs in executive hospital roles, private practice or high-level research can earn $150,000-$200,000 in more senior clinical or leadership psychology positions.

Does Canada have PsyD programs?

Yes, PsyD programs are gaining more popularity across Canada along with rising clinical psychology workforce demand. Canada currently has 16 universities offering accredited Doctor of Psychology degrees coast-to-coast. Top options are found at institutions like Ryerson University, University of Calgary, and Simon Fraser University. The emergence of Canada’s first private APA accredited PhD psychology tracks also signals potential for more privately run PsyD initiatives emerging ahead if enrolment demand continues growing.

Can I be a clinical psychologist with a masters in Ontario?

No, a master’s degree alone does not allow someone to practice independently as a clinical psychologist in Ontario or become a registered psychologist. Mandatory requirements include completing a doctoral degree in clinical psychology (PsyD or PhD), accruing supervised clinical practice hours, and passing professional exams. However, those with clinical-focused masters like Counseling Psychology or Applied Behavior Analysis can often work in healthcare or school settings under supervision in associated roles.

Do you need a PhD to be a clinical psychologist in Ontario?

In most cases, yes – completing either a PhD or PsyD clinical psychology doctoral program at minimum is required to qualify for clinical psychologist registration. However in some provinces, experienced psychological associates with many years of supervised practice post-masters can challenge exams to attempt qualification without completing a doctorate. But Ontario and most regions still require formal clinical psychology doctoral training for licensure eligibility.

What is the difference between a PsyD and a PhD in clinical psychology Canada?

A PsyD or Doctor of Psychology focuses mainly on applied clinical skills for professional practice treating patients. More coursework and practicums prepare grads for diagnosing and therapeutic work. A PhD in clinical psychology prioritizes research methodology for an academic career. While still gaining clinical experience, PhDs emphasize teaching, publishing studies, data analysis expertise over direct client contact hours compared to a PsyD.

Do you need a doctorate to be a clinical psychologist in Canada?

Yes, in almost all cases a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in clinical psychology is mandatory to qualify for registered clinical psychologist status across Canada. No province allows independent practice authority with just a masters level degree. Completing an accredited, multi-year doctoral program with robust supervised hours standardizes requirements to ensure licensed clinicians are comprehensively trained.

How much does a registered psychotherapist make in Ontario?

Registered psychotherapists in Ontario earn approximately $60,000 to $80,000 annually on average based on government data. New grads often start around $55,000 while senior psychotherapists in leadership or private practice may make up to $110,000 per year. Salaries also range depending on full-time hours, specialty, healthcare settings, and regional variations. Demand for RPs continues rising significantly with many new master’s degree holders entering this registration category yearly.

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Welcome to the Department of Psychology

Welcome to the UTSC Department of Psychology!  Our department is the academic home to more than 2,500 undergraduate students, enrolled in programs in experimental  Psychology ,  Mental Health Studies , and  Neuroscience . Our  faculty  are engaged in cutting edge research in 5 main areas of psychology and neuroscience:  behavioural neuroscience ,  clinical psychology ,  cognitive neuroscience ,  developmental psychology , and  social-personality psychology . Many of our faculty are also award-winning teachers. 

We are home to the  Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science , through which we offer an MA/PhD in clinical psychology, and we are actively involved in the  Tri-Campus Graduate Department of Psychology , through which we offer a PhD in experimental psychology. We invite you to explore our website and learn more about us!

We invite you to read our department’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement of Acknowledgements and Commitments .

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Top universities for psychology courses in canada.

• August 1, 2024
• by Opportunitiescircle 3

If you are looking for top universities for Psychology Courses in Canada, you have come to the right place. After a long fight for better mental healthcare, the world is finally turning a pathway for psychologists. Students are greatly looking for Psychology degrees and courses. A rising awareness and understanding bring out a critical need – a demand for more skilled psychologists.  The field of Psychology has seen significant growth in recent years, with a probable additional six percent increase by 2031. To become a licensed psychologist is challenging. Seeking professionals must suffer years of thorough education and training to handle the complications of their essential work. Canada has undoubtedly some of the world’s best psychology courses. We’ve listed the Top universities in Canada for Psychology Courses, highlighting what makes each good. Are you looking for the best Psychology courses in Canada? If you are, make sure to read till the end! These best Psychology Courses in Canada will offer you the chance to study in Canada . We hope that this list of Top Universities for Psychology Courses in Canada will help you find the perfect psychology course in Canada.

Top Universities for Psychology Courses in Canada :

• University of Toronto (Toronto, Ontario)

It’s a good opportunity to learn about the University of Toronto’s Psychology Department; the various stages of human mind development are dedicated to exploring every part of life, from infant to child or adolescent teenager. The Child Study Center is a vital component of this promise and comprises six research facilities that engage students at every level. These labs cover diverse aspects of child behavior, offering students an opportunity to explore their specific interests. For example, the Starlab delves into how children process morality through inspiring games.

The Budding Minds Lab combines behavioral studies and neuroimaging to understand memory development in children. The University of Toronto is undoubtedly Canada’s number one psychology university, thanks to its pioneering research and contribution to our understanding of the difficult workings of the human mind and it offers one of the best Psychology Courses in Canada. You can easily study Psychology in Canada at the University of Toronto.

• University of British Columbia (Vancouver)

The University of British Columbia’s Psychology Department is dedicated to providing its students with amazing opportunities and setting them up for success. The psychology department of the University is offering grants, awards, and access to some of the top exciting research projects in the country. In 2022, the Department achieved a significant financial milestone, granting over $10 million to various research projects across the school. These projects aim to advance knowledge in psychology and offer students on campus a chance to work as research assistants and contribute actively.

The University of British Columbia recognizes that psychology is a top undergraduate program and takes pride in attracting more young minds to study this field than any other major on campus. To support these aspiring psychologists, the University offers awards under $7,000, aiming to inspire and encourage them. Additionally, the University puts its money where its commitment is by providing over $1 million in new graduate student fellowships . Above all, the University of British Columbia is committed to supporting its students financially and backing the next generation of educators, doctors, and licensed psychologists. It’s a commitment that goes beyond just words.

• McGill University (Montreal, Quebec)

McGill University has a rich history of providing top-notch psychological education to students worldwide, not just Canadians. From offering the first psychological course in 1850  to establishing its first lab in 1910, McGill has consistently crafted a unique program.

Today, McGill stands as a pioneer in psychological research, collaborating with other top centers and institutions across the nation. This collaborative spirit ensures that students have access to some of the best research facilities globally.

For those interested in understanding the impact of the brain’s physical makeup on psychological trauma, the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital provides invaluable resources. Similarly, the Department’s partnership with the International Laboratory for Brain, Music, and Sound Research opens doors for those interested in exploring the connection between sound and mood.

McGill University not only embraces its storied past but also continues to shine as a leading center for psychological education and research, fostering an environment where curiosity succeeds and students can achieve their full potential.

• University of Calgary (Calgary, Alberta)

The University of Calgary’s approach to psychology is also a well-known university in Canada. Throughout the year they conduct different engaging seminars and workshops to connect with their students. What sets the University of Calgary apart is its profound empathy and social mindfulness, which is shown by its creation and ongoing support.

The University of Calgary aims to create a supportive and friendly environment for all those students who show interest. Their passion for psychology courses and their commitment to using it to make a positive impact on society is inspiring. It is one of the Top Universities for Psychology Courses in Canada.

• Western University (London, Ontario)

The Western University psychology department is undoubtedly one of the nation’s premier learning institutions. Noteworthy figures like Dr. Jody Culham, who was recently appointed as a Canada Research Chair for her groundbreaking work in immersive neuroscience methods, and Dr. Ken McRae, the newest Fellow of The Cognitive Science Society, exemplify the Department’s commitment to breaking barriers and expanding opportunities for students.

Campus-engaged in thought-provoking and essential psychological discussions, Western University hosts a diverse array of Colloquium speakers from around the globe. This year alone, the University welcomed four speakers from across the continent, including Dr. Ann Marie Ryan of Michigan State University, who shared insights on the crucial importance of active allyship to minority communities.

It’s not just education; it’s a vibrant exchange of ideas that transcends borders. Western University’s dedication to providing its students with a world-class education and offering them opportunities to engage with leading experts in the field is worthy. The Department is committed to creating an environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and inspires students to achieve their full potential.

In conclusion, Canada has the world’s top Universities for psychology courses and programs, each offering a unique and diverse experience for their psychology students. From the effective research at the University of Toronto, exploring the complexities of child development, to the University of Calgary’s compassionate approach and commitment to making a positive impact on society, these institutions stand at the forefront of psychological education. McGill University, with its rich history and collaborative research initiatives, and Western University, fostering an environment of intellectual exchange and barrier-breaking opportunities, further contribute to Canada’s reputation as an inclusive of excellence in psychology courses. As the demand for skilled psychologists continues to rise globally, these top Canadian universities provide a solid foundation for students to begin fulfilling and impactful careers in the field of psychology. These above-mentioned universities offer the chance to study psychology in Canada for international students through their Psychology Courses in Canada.

Written by: Adeeba Shah

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Molly Atwood , PhD

• Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Faculty

4.8 of 5 stars

14 insurances accepted, professional titles.

• Director of Clinical Training, Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program

Primary Academic Title

Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

Dr. Atwood completed her PhD at Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada. She then completed a clinical postdoctoral fellowship in Behavioral Sleep Medicine at Stanford University. Her clinical and research expertise is in behavioral medicine with specializations in obesity management and sleep. Her work in obesity includes the exploration of psychosocial predictors of bariatric surgery outcomes and providing pre- and post-surgical psychological interventions for bariatric patients. Dr. Atwood’s work in sleep includes understanding cognitive vulnerability to insomnia and how best to treat insomnia in the context of other mental and physical health conditions.

Stanford University Medical Center

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PhD in School Psychology

Using data-driven solutions to enhance equality across the education system.

With a PhD in School Psychology, you will work directly with PK-12 students, while also publishing change-making research, that will help improve equity and inclusion in schools.

See important statements and positions from the School Psychology faculty

Our commitment to you

Upon graduation with a PhD in school psychology from Loyola, you will possess the following knowledge, skills, and professional values necessary to commence work as both a practicing school psychologist and researcher.

You will become a scientist-practitioner who understands and can implement evidence-based assessment, intervention, and consultation practice from a social justice perspective. Plus, you'll understand the history of school psychology, the impact of historical discrimination and inequity on educational and psychological functioning, and  individual differences and social/cultural influences on development and adjustment.

You'll conduct evidence-based direct counseling and mental health interventions, as well as indirect consultative interventions in applied settings. You will also be trained to carry out comprehensive psychoeducational assessments to support decision-making regarding special education eligibility and development of individual education plans (IEPs). On the research side, you'll critically evaluate research (i.e., designs, data analysis, and data interpretation) from a methodological, as well as ethical and social justice, perspective. Using research methodological skills and statistical expertise, you'll complete original dissertation research, present at psychological and educational conferences, and prepare manuscripts for publication.

Professional Values

Our graduates represent the scientist-practitioner ideal of a person who not only applies psychological knowledge within the context of their professional practice, but also a person who can generate new, applications-oriented knowledge through their research and scholarly activities and the application of such in the service of others through a social justice framework.

Program Faculty

Our dedicated  School Psychology Faculty  are experts in the field of School Psychology. They conduct research on topics such as equity in school mental health, discipline policy, early childhood development, family collaboration, school consultation, student identity development, and other scholarship that advances social justice in education. PhD students work on faculty research teams trhoughout their training. Additionally, faculty advisors support students throughout each stage of the program.

Accreditation

Loyola's PhD in School Psychology has been accredited by the  American Psychologist Association (APA)  and approved by the  National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).

APA Student Admissions Outcomes Reporting Measures

APA Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data (2023)

Program Features

All students begin in the first year with an introductory professional orientation course, beginning research courses, pre-requisite courses that lead to a second-year school-based practicum, and engagement with the community through the completion of a school-based, pre-practicum experience.

In the second year of the program, students complete two semesters of a structured school-based practicum, in which they spend two days a week in a school setting and complete structured activities tied to the practicum, while also taking additional courses in research methods/statistics, counseling, consultation, and assessment.

In the third year of the program, students complete an advanced practicum, more advanced research courses, and work on their dissertation proposals.

In the fourth year of the program, students apply for a calendar-year-long doctoral internship through the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC), an APA-accredited doctoral internship match system for doctoral students in Health Service Psychology programs.

In the fifth year, students are required to complete a calendar-year internship under the direction of a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist.

Transfer Credit

Students with a master’s degree may be able to transfer up to 36 credit hours into the PhD program. However, a minimum of 63 credit hours and a minimum of 2 years of coursework must be completed at Loyola University Chicago.

Program Length

This is a full-time program. Students complete the course work for the program in four years, including summers. Time for degree completion, including the dissertation, is five years.

Continuous Enrollments Doctoral students in School Psychology are required to maintain continuous enrollment during their program of studies. A formal leave of absence may be granted upon request and with the approval of the Graduate School’s Associate Dean.

Admission Requirements

Interested in applying? Check out the  PhD i n School Psychology application requirements .

• For  application  related questions,  contact Graduate Enrollment Management . 
• For  program structure and academics  related questions, contact:  Ashley Mayworm , Program Chair

Tuition, Financial Aid and Scholarships

The School of Education and Loyola's Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the necessary financial resources to make their education at Loyola affordable. You can learn more on the  Financial Assistance  page.

What is the difference between a PhD and EdS in School Psychology?

The EdS degree will allow you to be credentialed in Illinois as a licensed school psychologist through the State Board of Education and also prepares you to become a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). This credential allows you to practice as a school psychologist in the public schools. The PhD program also prepares students to become credentialed school psychologists, but additionally provides research and clinical training that allows for careers in research and University-level teaching.

Does the School Psychology PhD program prepare me for licensure?

In Illinois, the PhD degree qualifies you to become licensed as a school psychologist by the Illinois State Board of Education, which is required to work in the schools. Graduates of the PhD program are also eligible to pursue clinical licensure (as a clinical psychologist) through the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations (IDPR). In Illinois, graduates of our School Psychology PhD program meet the educational requirements to pursue their clinical psychology license, but must meet IDPR requirements for internship, postdoctoral training, and exams; each case is reviewed by IDPR. Outside of Illinois, each state has its own credentialing requirements and individuals need to check with the state in which they want to practice school psychology for the particular state's credentialing requirements.

Do I need to take any licensure examinations?

All candidates must successfully pass the Illinois State School Psychology Content Examination prior to beginning internship. All candidates must also pass the PRAXIS School Psychology Examination to obtain NCSP status (National Certified School Psychologists). For doctoral graduates pursuing their clinical license in Illinois, they must also meet IDPR exam requirements (e.g., passing the EPPP).

How do I apply for state licensure?

Visit the  Placement and Licensure page  for details. 

I have taken graduate courses at another university. Will any of these courses transfer to Loyola's School Psychology program?

Because of the rapid changes in the field of education and school psychology, courses will only be transferred to Loyola if they have been taken during the five years prior to your admittance to the school psychology program. If you do not have a master's degree, then six semester hours may be transferred. If you have a master's degree, up to 36 semester hours may be transferred into the PhD program at Loyola.

How long does it take to complete the PhD in School Psychology?

Full-time students can complete the coursework and field placements in a minimum of four years by taking courses during the summer. A full-time 12-month internship must be completed during the last year of study. All coursework and the dissertation proposal must be completed prior to beginning an internship. Completion of coursework and dissertation typically takes five years.

Can I complete the PhD in School Psychology degree by taking courses part time?

The program is full-time only and requires attendance during the summer.

Is there a residency requirement?

As full-time students, all PhD students automatically satisfy the residency requirements.

High School Student Explores Politically Charged Views

Authentic exploratory research builds students' awareness of psychological bias..

Posted August 1, 2024 | Reviewed by Margaret Foley

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This is the fifth in a series.

Through a series of studies, Yale University social psychologist Geoffrey Cohen ( 2003 ) showed that Democrats who identified as extremely liberal would embrace an exceedingly stringent welfare proposal and Republicans who identified as extremely conservative would embrace an exceedingly generous welfare proposal if each study participant was told that the plan was proposed by the participant’s own party. People’s biases are ever-present, and those conducting research must consider such biases to appropriately phrase questions and other study components.

When we prepare students to become researchers, we need to help them understand and plan for psychological factors so their findings can be as reliable and valuable as possible. When interviewing my latest researcher, I felt great joy recognizing his awareness of participants’ psychological biases on the politically charged topic of COVID-19 responses. This awareness was especially impressive considering that the researcher was not a university academic; instead, Nicholai Grombchevsky is a Laguna Beach High School (LBHS) student.

In Part I of this series I interviewed Jun Shen, the passionate teacher and edtech coordinator who runs LBHS’s Authentic Exploratory Research (AER) Program . AER is an independent research course inspired by Palo Alto Unified School District’s Advanced Authentic Research program . The program pairs students with adult mentors (such as LBUSD staff, industry experts, and academics) who assist the teens in researching their own big questions in fields of their choice. Shen’s explanation of how the AER program works, combined with students’ input through the rest of this interview series (from Aryana Mohajerian , Carter McKinzie , and Carter Ghere ), lets us glimpse some of the different ways students can use the program to pursue individual interests, as well as how other educators can implement such a program.

LBHS student Nicholai Grombchevsky was the fourth student to give us an account of his experience in AER and the findings that his AER research produced. The way Grombchevsky integrated psychology with his study of pandemic views illustrates how complex research topics can successfully be tackled by a high school program.

Jenny Grant Rankin: In short, what was your research study about?

Nicholai Grombchevsky: With the rising importance of government-sponsored public health initiatives in modern society, I hoped—with this research—to create a model that helps balance health and safety and public trust that could be used to guide decisions related to research regulations and government action.

JGR: What were your most important findings?

NG: My most important finding was that there was no significant difference between peoples’ trust in the government before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to this, it can reasonably be inferred that people's views of the government did not change significantly following government regulation. There were very few differences between state responses to the pandemic. Many states, and the federal government, followed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC’s) guidelines. The only major difference between ordinances was between counties.

JGR: What was the biggest thing you learned about conducting research?

NG: I learned the importance of taking people’s biases into account. When collecting survey data, I found that the questions' phrasing changed peoples’ responses. I asked the same questions and phrased them in negative, positive, and neutral ways. I found slight variations in the average political leaning of responses, with negative and positive questions having slightly more polar responses.

JGR: What was the biggest thing you learned about communicating research?

NG: I learned that when communicating research, presenting as, and being, an unbiased presenter was vital. With my topic being political, I had to communicate what the data showed and remove my bias for the data analysis. I also learned that people want to discuss opinions on research and that when I gave my opinion of the data, I had to make it clear that it was an opinion based on my data, not a neutral analysis.

JGR: What was your favorite part about AER?

NG: My favorite part of AER was the mentorship. Being paired with an industry mentor was invaluable. My mentor, Sydney Colitti, works in epidemiology data analysis. From her, I learned so much about data research and data science that I would not have learned without taking this class.

JGR: What was the most difficult part of presenting the research?

NG: The most difficult part of presenting the research was condensing over 120 responses into a less than 10-minute presentation. Trying to present everything I wanted was impossible, so trying to only present the most important data was a struggle.

Grombchevsky not only considered study participants’ biases, but he even considered his own when analyzing data. As we teach students to become researchers, it offers an excellent opportunity to also teach them to apply bias awareness to their own thinking as Grombchevsky did. If all students can master this skill, we should see a brighter, less polarized future.

Cohen, G. L. (2003, November). Party over policy: The dominating impact of group influence on political beliefs. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 85 (5), 808-22. https://doi.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0022-3514.85.5.808

Jenny Grant Rankin, Ph.D., is a Fulbright Specialist for the U.S. Department of State.

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Program Requirements

Our graduate program is composed of faculty and students of three undergraduate Psychology departments (St. George, Mississauga, and Scarborough) and several affiliated institutions and hospitals. The focus of the program is scientific and experimental.  

In keeping with the academic tradition of the University of Toronto (which consistently ranks in the top 20 in a global ranking of the top 100 research universities – the only Canadian university in the top 30), the goal of the program is primarily to educate scientific researchers. To accomplish this, the course load is kept light and the emphasis of the graduate program is on research.

The Direct-Entry Ph.D. Program (5 years)

Direct-entry Ph.D. students are required to satisfy the following program requirements:

• PSY1100: Foundational Research Project, a research project course supervised by the student’s supervisor plus two other faculty members, completed during Ph.D. 1 and Ph.D. 2
• PSY2001: Statistics I, an introductory statistics course
• PSY2002: Statistics II, an advanced statistics course
• PSY3000: Outside Research Project, a research project course supervised by a faculty member other than the student's PhD supervisor, completed during Ph.D. 2 and Ph.D. 3 
• PSY3001: Professional Psychology 
• Ph.D. proposal and Ph.D. reading list defense, requirements relating directly to the Ph.D. thesis
• Four content courses in Psychology

In addition to these requirements, students will complete and defend a Ph.D. thesis, ideally by the end of Ph.D. 5. Students are also encouraged to attend departmental events, research area talks, and colloquia, as well as laboratory meetings and other student groups. 

The Ph.D. Program (4 years)

Ph.D. students are required to satisfy the following program requirements:

• PSY2002: Statistics II, an advanced statistics course 
• PSY3000: Outside Research Project, a research project course supervised by a faculty member other than the student's PhD supervisor, completed in the first two years
• Two content courses in Psychology, normally completed in the first two years

Students admitted with a Master’s degree from another institution or program at the University of Toronto may be exempt from the Outside Research Project, however, this credit must be replaced by a content course.

In addition to these requirements, students will complete and defend a Ph.D. thesis, ideally by the end of Ph.D. 4. Students are also encouraged to attend departmental events, research area talks, and colloquia, as well as laboratory meetings and other student groups. 

The M.A. Program (1 year): No Longer Admitting Students

Please note that we are no longer accepting applications to our M.A. program. Undergraduates who wish to apply to our graduate program can do so through our Direct-Entry PhD option. Please see above, and the Program Admission page, for more information.

M.A. students are required to satisfy the following program requirements:

• PSY1000: Directed Studies, a course of directed readings leading to an M.A. thesis proposal 
• PSY2001: Design of Experiments I, a basic statistics course
• Two content courses in Psychology, chosen in consultation with their supervisor(s)

In addition to these requirements, students must also complete their M.A. research and successfully defend and submit their M.A. thesis. Students are also encouraged to attend departmental events, research area talks, and colloquia, as well as laboratory meetings and other student groups. 

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College of Education, Department of Kinesiology & Health Promotion Sport and Exercise Psychology (M.S.)

What can you do with this degree.

The field of sport and exercise psychology is an interdisciplinary science that explores the relationship between various psychological factors and participation in sport and/or physical activity.

Delivery Method: In-Person

Credit Hours: 39 Hours (Minimum)

WATCH: Program Introduction by Dr. Marc Cormier, Program Director

Department of Kinesiology & Health Promotion

Hands-on Experience

The two-year program in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion offers students the choice to pursue a graduate education in the field of sport and exercise psychology by either following an applied or research track. Each option integrates theory-based research and the application of key concepts associated with performance enhancement and life skill development. In this context, successful completion of this program will result in a strong understanding of the various psychosocial factors that influence sport participation and performance.

Applied Track

Applied Track Curriculum (Core courses) Total Hours (minimum): 39

The applied curriculum aims to prepare students for professional certifications (e.g., CMPC) and careers (e.g., sport and performance consultant, coaching, master resilience trainer, strength and conditioning coach, academic advisor, etc.) in applied sport and exercise psychology. In addition to a 300 (minimum) hour supervised internship, students in the applied track will complete graduate coursework in various professional fields related to sport and exercise psychology, including counseling psychology, sport leadership, and exercise science. Students in the applied curriculum will be required to sit for written and oral comprehensive examinations.

View the Applied Track Curriculum

Students in the applied track will have the opportunity to choose from various approved internship sites and settings, allowing them to build a foundation in applied sport and exercise psychology/mental skills training. A certified consultant with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (CMPC) will supervise all internships, preparing students for CMPC designation post-graduation.

Possible internship opportunities include:

• NCAA Division I, II, III schools
• NAIA schools
• Collegiate Club Sports
• Kentucky High School Athletics Association
• Life Skills Coordinator positions at major NCAA institutions
• Performance enhancement specialist at a Military Performance Enhancement Center
• Local community organizations (e.g., YMCA)
• Behavioral Health Consultant – Student rec center/Wellness Program
• Performance Enhancement Specialist at major sports facilities (e.g., IMG Academies)
• Local coaching workshops
• Local marathons or athletic events

Research Track

Research Track Curriculum (Core courses) Total Hours (minimum): 39

The research curriculum is recommended for students who intend to continue their education at the doctoral level and/or pursue a career in academia. Students in the research track are encouraged to register for an upper-level research and statistics course and will complete a master’s thesis on an original topic related to the psychological aspects of sport and/or physical activity. Students following the research curriculum will be required to sit for an oral defense of their thesis project. In some cases, students in the research track may pursue limited applied experiences (e.g., co-consulting, shadowing, etc.) at the discretion of the program faculty.

View the Research Track Curriculum

Students entering the research track will complete an empirically-based thesis project that will allow students to further their knowledge in a research topic that interests them. Each thesis is expected to explore an original research idea to be submitted for conference presentation, publication in an empirical journal, and/or lead to future dissertation research topics

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PhD in School & Clinical Child Psychology

Are you passionate about improving the mental health and well-being of children, youth and families? This program prepares you to become a leader in psychology practice and research in schools, mental health, community and university settings. It also provides you with the academic requirements for becoming a registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO).

Full-time students receive a OISE Graduate Funding Package for their first four years of study. Students who advanced into this program from OISE's Master of Arts in School and Clinical Child Psychology program will receive a OISE Graduate Funding Package for their first three years of study.

OISE's Graduate Funding Package covers the cost of tuition, and helps offset other living expenses. Last year, awards averaged around $25,000 per eligible student.

Judging your own happiness could backfire

Experiencing emotions with acceptance is more useful, study finds

Read the journal article

• Unpacking the Pursuit of Happiness (PDF, 305KB)

Washington — Judging how happy you are could backfire and negatively impact life satisfaction and psychological well-being, according to research published by the American Psychological Association.

In three experiments comprising more than 1,800 participants, researchers found that having concerns or judgments about one’s own level of happiness were associated with lower well-being, due in part to greater negativity and disappointment about positive events.

The research was published in the journal Emotion .

Thinking too much about one’s own level of happiness could be related to fears about not measuring up or not being as happy as other people, said lead researcher Felicia Zerwas, PhD, who was a doctoral student at the University of California-Berkeley during this research and is now a postdoctoral researcher at New York University.

“There are plenty of societal pressures, at least within the United States, which encourage the fallacy that people must feel happy all of the time to achieve greater well-being,” she said. “Overall, allowing yourself to experience your emotions, whether they are positive or negative, with an accepting attitude could be a useful tool for pursuing happiness and increasing well-being.”

Contrary to some previous studies, the current research found that the pursuit of happiness, or viewing happiness as a very important goal, didn’t have any detrimental impacts on well-being. However, judging one’s own level of happiness did. The research included various samples of participants, including Yale University students, community members from Denver and Berkeley, California, and online studies with participants from the United States and Canada.

The participants answered questions about their beliefs about happiness, as well as their psychological well-being and depressive symptoms. Being concerned about one’s own happiness was associated with lower overall life satisfaction and psychological well-being, as well as greater depressive symptoms.

The research also found that having concerns about one’s own happiness was associated with greater negativity about positive events.

“Having high expectations for one’s happiness can be detrimental because it makes it more difficult to achieve the level of happiness that we are expecting from a positive event,” Zerwas said.

Article: “Unpacking the Pursuit of Happiness: Being Concerned About Happiness but Not Aspiring to Happiness Is Linked with Negative Meta-Emotions and Worse Well-Being,” Felicia Zerwas, PhD, Oliver John, PhD, and Iris Mauss, PhD, University of California Berkeley, and Brett Ford, PhD, University of Toronto, Emotion , published online Aug. 1, 2024.

Felicia Zerwas, PhD, can be contacted via email .

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