The clinical psychology training program has been continuously approved by the Education and Training Board of the American Psychological Association since 1965 (for more information on accreditation, see our Contact Information Section). As the clinical psychology training program is committed to the scientist-practitioner model, it emphasizes the active interaction between psychological theory, research, and clinical practice. Success in both the scientist and practitioner roles requires extensive background knowledge in psychology. Accordingly, all clinical psychology graduate students complete a basic core (see flowchart) of courses that include the social, biological, developmental, and individual bases of behavior, as well as statistics and research methodology. Students are expected to demonstrate an increasing and progressive competence in the ability to present an analysis of psychological issues, both orally and in writing. We offer a general clinical program and two optional emphases: 1. Neuropsychology and 2. Child, Adolescent and Family

Our program relies on a mentorship model of training. Accordingly, we seek students who are interested in areas of research that parallel those of the faculty. Upon acceptance, a student enters the program with the opportunity to begin working immediately with his or her faculty mentor. Typically, this faculty member chairs the student's thesis and dissertation committees, encourages professional growth, and helps prepare the student to continue his or her training on internship. However, students are free to work with other faculty as their interests develop over the course of their graduate training.

The Clinical Psychology Training Program emphasizes the application of classroom learning in practical settings. As a reflection of our strong commitment to the scientist-practitioner model, numerous applied research and clinical opportunities are available. Course offerings in statistics and research methodology focus on the development of a strong working knowledge of these subjects that can be brought to bear on the continually developing field of psychology through the design, execution, and evaluation of clinical research. The master's thesis and dissertation provide opportunities for students to further develop and demonstrate their independent research skills. Students work collaboratively with their faculty mentor to develop an idea, design and conduct an empirical study, and report the findings. We expect that the thesis and dissertation will be of sufficient relevance and sophistication to be submitted for publication upon completion. Additional information about research opportunities and the research interests and projects currently underway can be found in our Research Projects page and individual research interests in our Faculty/Staff section.

Clinical course offerings concentrate on the development of interview, evaluation, diagnostic, and treatment skills with direct experience provided through clinical practice. In addition to the clinical practica at the Clinical Psychology Center, numerous community opportunities for clinical training are available. The treatment philosophy of the program is eclectic, allowing students to learn and utilize a variety of techniques appropriate for diverse clinical problems. Rather than being rigidly wedded to a particular "school" of psychological intervention, we seek to offer didactic training and clinical supervision in a variety of theoretical, therapeutic, and assessment modalities. Our location also allows ample opportunity for clinical students to engage in training experiences particularly related to the mental health needs in rural, under-served communities. Further information about the clinical training can be found on our Clinical Training page.

Clinical psychologists affect the well-being of the public through teaching, research, and clinical services. Accordingly, we place a strong emphasis on ethical conduct, genuine concern for the well-being of others, and deep respect for cultural diversity and individual differences. As such, the clinical program seeks students with a high level of dedication and outstanding intellectual skills, as well as excellent interpersonal skills. We expect that individuals trained in the Clinical Psychology Training Program at The University of Montana will become leaders in the field and will have a strong positive impact on the field of clinical psychology, and on the public whom they serve. (Faculty supervisors are: Campbell, Cochran, Fiore, Hall, Schuldberg, Swaney, and Waltz )