Before deciding between a Ph.D. and Psy.D. program, it's best for students to determine specifically what they want in a future career and investigate relevant graduate psychology degrees. Students should make a list of their desired career goals, interests and other important factors to better understand what they're looking for in a graduate program. For students with a special interest in neuroanatomy or behavioral sciences, for example, a Ph.D. in a more behavioral or neuroscience field may be more useful than a clinical degree.
Ph.D and Psy.D. programs take very different approaches toward research. Ph.D. programs utilize a scientist-practitioner model, which embraces the importance of doing clinical work focused on scientific research. While some Psy.D. programs may provide students with the chance to assist in a study or complete studies of their own, they don't typically require the substantial research component of a Ph.D. program.
While Ph.D and Psy.D. programs both prepare students for careers in clinical psychology, the clinical experience gained in the programs is notably different. Rather than focusing on research and conducting studies, the Psy.D. degree emphasizes the practitioner-scholar model, which introduces students to concepts and theories in a classroom setting, then allows them to refine their abilities and gain experience through clinical interactions. Students often work in clinical settings, such as mental health clinics, social working offices and hospitals. Ph.D. programs tend to offer clinical internships for students, but the focus is not nearly as intense.
The differences in Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs' focuses, curriculum, and experiences certainly impact the future of their graduates. Ph.D. program tend to be a better choice for students interested in research and teaching, in addition to clinical practice. They often offer more financial support, especially for students who participate in research, which can be an additional incentive for students who want less debt upon graduation. Students who wish to dedicate their career to clinical work may find the Psy.D. a better option. While Psy.D.s can teach, they typically will find it more difficult to find teaching jobs than those who hold the more widely accepted Ph.D.