Clinical Psychology Concentration in Psychology
A clinical psychology concentration focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders. It typically builds on the psychology program core and adds courses in psychopathology, therapeutic techniques, and supervised clinical practice.
Quick Answers
What is a clinical psychology concentration in psychology?
A clinical psychology concentration is a focused set of courses within a psychology program that emphasizes assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover psychopathology, evidence-based therapies, psychological assessment, and clinical ethics.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling. Clinical programs often require supervised practicum hours.
Back to Psychology Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders
- Degree levels: Commonly available at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level
- Career alignment: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist ($95,830 median, BLS May 2024)
- Growth outlook: 11.2% projected growth through 2034 (BLS)
- Online availability: Available at many accredited programs; practicum may require in-person hours
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Psychology Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Psychopathology | Classification, etiology, and course of psychological disorders |
| Evidence-Based Therapies | CBT, DBT, and other research-supported treatment approaches |
| Psychological Assessment | Test administration, scoring, interpretation, and report writing |
| Clinical Ethics | APA ethical standards, confidentiality, and informed consent |
| Research in Clinical Psychology | Outcome research, evidence evaluation, and clinical decision-making |
| Supervised Practicum | Hands-on clinical experience under licensed supervision |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
- What supervised practicum hours are required?
How psychology concentrations compare
| Concentration | Focus Area | Related BLS Career | Median Salary (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychology | Assessment, diagnosis, treatment | Clinical & Counseling Psychologist | $95,830 |
| Counseling Psychology | Therapeutic support, wellness | Marriage & Family Therapist | $63,780 |
| Cognitive Psychology | Memory, perception, cognition | School Psychologist | $86,930 |
| Developmental Psychology | Lifespan development | Educational & Career Counselor | $65,140 |
| Industrial-Organizational | Workplace behavior, HR | I-O Psychologist | $109,840 |
| Social Psychology | Group behavior, social influence | Mental Health Counselor | $59,190 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.