Welcome from the Chair
Dr. David Vermeersch, Chair of the Department of Psychology, shares a personal welcome and an overview of what makes LLU's clinical psychology programs distinctive.
Our Clinical Psychology Programs
Loma Linda University offers two fully APA-accredited doctoral pathways in clinical psychology: a PhD for those drawn to research and clinical practice, and a PsyD for those whose primary focus is research-informed clinical practice. Both programs are grounded in whole person care and prepare graduates for careers across a wide range of health and mental health settings.
🧠 Discover your path in psychology—sign up for our Virtual Info Session on May 7 to explore our programs, meet faculty, and get your questions answered.
About Our Department
The Department of Psychology at Loma Linda University prepares doctoral students to become skilled, ethical, and scientifically grounded clinical psychologists who are equipped to serve individuals and communities through a whole person, biopsychosocial-spiritual approach. Rooted in LLU's Christian mission, our programs integrate rigorous academic training with a deep commitment to human dignity, cultural humility, and service.
Students train alongside faculty who are active researchers and clinicians, gaining hands-on experience through the SBH Resiliency Clinic, the Department of Neurosurgery, and a broad network of practicum and internship placements. Our programs are delivered entirely on campus, fostering a close-knit cohort community and direct mentorship from faculty invested in your growth.
Excellence in Clinical Psychology Doctoral Education
LLU's Department of Psychology offers two fully APA-accredited* doctoral programs in clinical psychology, each designed to prepare graduates for leadership and service across a wide range of professional settings—including mental health centers, general hospitals, pediatric and geriatric facilities, university and research environments, and managed care and corporate institutions.
PhD in Clinical Psychology: The PhD program follows the scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing the integration of research and clinical practice. It is designed for students who wish to pursue careers in clinical work, research, teaching, and academic leadership. PhD graduates are prepared to contribute original scholarship to the discipline while functioning as highly skilled clinicians.
PsyD in Clinical Psychology: The PsyD program follows the practitioner-scholar model, with greater emphasis on clinical training and applied practice. It is designed for students whose primary goal is excellence in direct clinical service, supervision, and consultation. PsyD graduates are equipped for advanced practice across a variety of health and mental health settings.
Both programs train graduates to be scientifically oriented, thoroughly ethical, and highly skilled psychologists—prepared for the professional demands of the 21st century, particularly within health-related fields and in the context of a holistic approach to human health and welfare.
Admissions
The application deadline for Fall Quarter entry is December 1. New students begin classes at the end of September only. The Department of Psychology does not offer rolling admissions. For application extension information, contact Karen Saul at [email protected].
All courses are offered on campus. The Department of Psychology does not offer online coursework. For general program inquiries, contact us at [email protected] and include your name and phone number.
Apply Here Admissions & Application Info
Accreditation
LLU's PhD and PsyD programs in Clinical Psychology are fully accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).*
*Questions related to the program's accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:
Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation
American Psychological Association
750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002
Phone 202-336-5979 / Email [email protected]
Web www.apa.org/ed/accreditation
