Clinical psychology works in the fields of mental and physical well-being. Clinical psychologists solve social issues in individuals, friends, families, communities and organizations. Postgraduate clinical psychology training involves a four-year doctoral program with courses in abnormal psychology, clinical psychology, sociology and complex social relations. Interning with a certified clinical psychologist, as well as two years of supervised practice, is also required.
Biological psychology refers to the study of bodily functions and systems and their effects on behavior. The field generally revolves around studying nerves, neurotransmitters and brain circuitry. Work usually takes place in the lab with animal testing. These experiments help the psychologist to gain a better understanding of the inner workings of the brain. Postgraduate training involves a four-year doctoral program with courses in infant perception, cognition, cardiovascular reactivity, developmental changes in the brain, and social and emotional development. The program also includes 12 months of interning with a certified biological psychologist in the lab.
Most psychology postgraduate programs require a psychology degree from an undergraduate program certified by the American Psychological Association. A 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) or higher is required for acceptance to most post-graduate programs while more competitive programs require a 3.5 GPA or higher. Letters of recommendation are also highly valued and can compensate for a low GPA. High performance in statistics and research design courses are also required.
Postgraduate developmental psychology involves a five-year doctoral program, which includes advanced courses in developmental psychology and a unique opportunity to study the growth and development of human children. Courses include development of language and cognition, statistics and research design, and social aspects of development. A five-year case study on a group of toddlers is also required and students are expected to complete a 10,000-word dissertation at the end of the program.
The National Research Council Rankings, which ranks graduate schools based on graduation rate, success of graduate, and courses offered, ranked the following postgraduate psychology programs: Stanford University was ranked first, followed by the University of Michigan, Yale University, University of California, University of Illinois and Harvard University.