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Pre-Clinical Psychology

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Begin a Journey that Transforms Lives

Turn your passion for understanding people into a meaningful career helping them thrive. The Pre-Clinical Psychology Pathway at D’Youville University is an undergraduate pre-health route designed to prepare students for advanced study in psychology and direct entry into the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program. Students build a strong foundation in behavioral science, mental health, and human development—gaining the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to support individuals across diverse populations and settings.

Job Titles to Explore

  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Health Psychologist
  • Neuropsychologist
  • Child & Adolescent Psychologist
  • Forensic Psychologist
  • Counseling Psychologist
  • School Psychologist
  • Rehabilitation Psychologist
  • Community Mental Health Specialist
  • Research or Academic Psychologist

Employment Settings to Explore

  • Hospitals and Medical Centers
  • Community Mental Health Clinics
  • Private Practice
  • Schools and Universities
  • Rehabilitation and Wellness Centers
  • Correctional Facilities and Forensic Settings
  • Government and Military Health Services
  • Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations
  • Academic and Research Institutions

Why D'Youville

  • Hands-On Experience: Gain real-world insight through research, labs, and community-based learning focused on behavioral health and human development.
  • Interprofessional Collaboration: Learn alongside students in nursing, counseling, public health, and other healthcare programs—mirroring the teamwork found in clinical practice.
  • Holistic Focus: Embrace D’Youville’s whole-person approach to wellness, addressing the mind, body, and spirit in every aspect of care.
  • Mission-Driven Learning: Become part of a compassionate community committed to improving mental health outcomes and advancing social equity.
  • Career and Graduate Readiness: Build the academic foundation and practical skills needed to succeed in graduate study or entry-level behavioral health roles.
  • $94,310
    Median National Annual Wage in 2024
  • 6%
    National Job Growth Projected by 2034 (Faster Than Average)
  • 54%
    Increase in positions to work with older adults
  • Hybrid
    Requires some online and some in person instruction

Pathway Options 

You can choose to apply to enter the Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) degree from any program, but we recommend enrolling into one of the following as the Pre-Clinical Psychology Pathways to best align yourself to the curricular requirements and ensure prerequisite courses are completed: 

  • Psychology (BA)
  • Communication Science & Disorders (BS)
  • Mental Health Counseling (MS) 

There are two tracks recommended to set yourself up for applying to the Clinical Psychology (PsyD) program. These options allow completion of the undergraduate and doctoral program in 9-11 years. 

  • Pre-PsyD Undergrad Advisory Track:  

There is currently no early assurance pathway available for direct entry into the Clinical Psychology (PsyD) program. We encourage students that are interested in pursuing Clinical Psychology to enrolled in the Psychology (BA) or Communication Science & Disorders (BS) program. 

  • Pre-PsyD Masters Advisory Track:  

Students may also apply for entrance into the Clinical Psychology (PsyD) program after completing the Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS). 

Pre-Clinical Psychology

Learn About Pre-Clinical Psychology Pathway Degrees

Careers

The Pre-Clinical Psychology Pathway provides the foundational studies in psychology, neuroscience, and research methods needed to pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and build a meaningful career assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders to promote lifelong psychological health and well-being.

A Clinical Psychologist’s Role

Clinical Psychologists are highly trained professionals who specialize in understanding human behavior and mental processes to help individuals manage emotional distress, psychological disorders, and life challenges. They use evidence-based assessment and treatment methods—such as psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and psychological testing—to guide patients toward healing and personal growth.

Grounded in the sciences of psychology, biology, and social behavior, clinical psychologists blend research and practice to improve mental health outcomes. They work closely with individuals, couples, and groups to build coping strategies, enhance resilience, and promote lasting well-being. Many also conduct research, train future clinicians, and influence public policy related to mental health and wellness.

Industries & Settings

Clinical Psychologists are employed in a wide range of healthcare, educational, and research settings, including:

Hospitals & Medical Centers – Collaborating with physicians and care teams to evaluate and treat patients coping with mental or physical health conditions.

Private Practice – Providing individualized therapy and psychological testing for clients of all ages.

Community Mental Health Clinics – Offering counseling, crisis intervention, and support for diverse populations.

Schools & Universities – Supporting student well-being and academic success through counseling and educational assessments.

Research & Academia – Conducting studies on mental health, cognition, and behavior, and teaching future psychologists.

Job Outlook

Clinical Psychologists continue to be in high demand as the need for qualified mental health professionals grows nationwide. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists was $96,100 in May 2023, with employment projected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

This growth reflects the increasing recognition of mental health as a vital component of overall wellness and the expanding role of psychologists in integrated healthcare, education, and community programs.

For more information about the job outlook for Clinical Psychologists, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

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