Faculty Affiliation

Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE)

Degree Programs

Child Study and Education

MA

• Field:
  • Practice-Based Inquiry in Psychology and Educational Practice

EdD (admissions have been administratively suspended)

• Emphases:
  • Early Learning and Early Years;
  • Mental Health and Wellbeing;
  • Special Education

Counselling and Clinical Psychology

MA

• Fields:
  • Clinical and Counselling Psychology — offered by the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, OISE, St. George campus;
  • Clinical Psychology — offered by the Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science, University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC)

PhD

• Fields:
  • Clinical and Counselling Psychology — offered by the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, OISE, St. George campus;
  • Clinical Psychology — offered by the Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science, University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC)

Counselling Psychology

MEd

• Fields:
  • Counselling and Psychotherapy;
  • Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology
    • Dual degree program: MEd (University of Toronto) / MAP (Zhejiang University) (admissions have been administratively suspended for the 2024-25 admissions cycle);
    • Dual degree program: MEd (University of Toronto) / MMed (China Medical University);
    • Dual degree program: MEd (University of Toronto) / MSc (China Medical University)
  • Guidance and Counselling

EdD

• Fields:
  • Counselling and Psychotherapy
  • School Psychology

Developmental Psychology and Education

MA, MEd, and PhD

• Emphases:
  • Early Learning (PhD, flexible-time only)
  • Program Evaluation (MEd only)

School and Clinical Child Psychology

MA and PhD

Combined Degree Programs

• STG, Education and Society (Minor), Honours BA / Child Study and Education, MA
• STG, Education and Society (Minor), Honours BSc / Child Study and Education, MA
• UTM, Exceptionality in Human Learning (Specialist), Honours BSc / Child Study and Education, MA
• UTM, Psychology (Major), Honours BSc / Child Study and Education, MA
• UTM, Psychology (Specialist), Honours BSc / Child Study and Education, MA

Collaborative Specializations

The following collaborative specializations are available to students in participating degree programs as listed below:

• Addiction Studies
  • Counselling and Clinical Psychology (Clinical and Counselling Psychology field), MA, PhD
• Aging, Palliative and Supportive Care Across the Life Course
  • Counselling and Clinical Psychology, MA, PhD
  • Counselling Psychology, MEd, EdD
• Community Development (admissions have been administratively suspended)
  • Counselling and Clinical Psychology (Clinical and Counselling Psychology field), MA
  • Counselling Psychology, MEd
• Educational Policy (admissions have been administratively suspended)
  • Developmental Psychology and Education, MA, MEd, PhD
• Neuroscience
  • Developmental Psychology and Education, MA, PhD
• Sexual Diversity Studies
  • Counselling and Clinical Psychology, MA, PhD
  • Counselling Psychology, MEd, EdD
• Women and Gender Studies
  • Counselling and Clinical Psychology, MA, PhD
  • Counselling Psychology, MEd, EdD

Overview

Guided by the highest standards of scholarship and a commitment to equity and social justice, students and faculty in the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development examine major issues in education, human development, applied psychology and professional practice, answering the critical questions that create action in the professional practice of the hundreds of thousands of teachers, researchers, counsellors, clinical and school psychologists, psychotherapists, professionals, policy makers, leaders, and influencers who are part of the OISE community worldwide.

All programs in the department commence in September.

Contact and Address

Admissions

Initial inquiries regarding admission to graduate studies in the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development should be made directly to:

Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/registrar-students
Email: admissions.oise@utoronto.ca
Tel: (416) 978-4300
Fax: (416) 323-9964

Registrar's Office and Student Experience
Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE)
University of Toronto
252 Bloor Street West, Room 8-225
Toronto, Ontario M5S 1V6
Canada

Programs

Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd
Email: oise.aphd@utoronto.ca

Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development
Ontario Institute for Studies in Education
University of Toronto
252 Bloor Street West, 9th Floor
Toronto, Ontario M5S 1V6
Canada

Master of Arts

Program Description

The Master of Arts in Child Study and Education Program is offered at the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study, a centre of professional teacher training and research in childhood and education, which includes a Nursery through Grade 6 Laboratory School.

The philosophy of this program is based on the belief that successful teaching requires an understanding of how children’s capacities, concerns, and behaviour change with age, how individual differences reflect developmental changes, and how social and physical environments influence children’s development.

The program introduces students to educational and developmental theory and research relevant to educational settings, showing how this research can inform classroom practice. Students also learn how to objectively study children, using both practical assessment and formal methods of inquiry. These areas of knowledge combined with knowledge of effective teaching methods (such as an inquiry-based approach) and learning environments result in educational practices that build on children’s current levels of development.

The non-thesis program requires two years of full-time study leading to a Master of Arts degree. Graduates are recommended to the Ontario College of Teachers for a Certificate of Qualification, which qualifies the holder to teach in the primary and junior divisions (junior kindergarten to grade 6) of Ontario schools. Research is embedded throughout the courses and the program.

This program includes a field in Practice-Based Inquiry (PBI) in Psychology and Educational Practice.

Field: Practice-Based Inquiry (PBI) in Psychology and Educational Practice

The Practice-Based Inquiry (PBI) in Psychology and Educational Practice field of study is for those who wish to become classroom teachers and acquire the skills to continuously grow, improve, and lead. The field is based on the use of collaborative inquiry and data-based decision making to enhance teachers’ practice and student learning and success (working cooperatively with colleagues and using data and research findings to meet student needs). This field will provide a foundation in the use of a broad range of information sources to address questions of practice using an inquiry cycle.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree (usually a four-year degree) with the equivalent of a University of Toronto mid-B or better in the final year.

• Applicants are also expected to have experience working with groups of children, preferably in responsible positions.

• Normally, an interview is required prior to admission.

• A satisfactory vulnerable sector screening (VSS) police check is required prior to having direct contact with students. Without proof of a satisfactory VSS, schools will not allow teacher education candidates to participate in practice teaching.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 11.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) including practicum placements and an internship as follows:

  • Year 1 — 7.0 FCEs as follows:

    • APD2200Y Child Study Foundations: Security, Wellbeing, Development, and Equity‬ (1.0 FCE).

    • APD2201Y Education Seminar I: Professional Practice, Critical Pedagogies, and Social Studies (1.0 FCE).

    • APD2210Y Introduction to Curriculum I: Core Areas (1.0 FCE).

    • APD2220Y Teaching Practicum (1.0 FCE).

    • APD2270Y Special Education and Adaptive Instruction (1.0 FCE).

    • APD1226H Foundations in Inquiry and Data-Based Decision Making (0.5 FCE).

    • 1.5 elective FCEs (equivalent to three half courses) chosen from among master's-level courses in the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development and, in some cases, other departments; to be completed during the Spring (May/June) and Summer (July/August) sessions.

    • Students without an undergraduate course in child development must take APD1201H Child and Adolescent Development (0.5 FCE) as an elective.

    • Eligible students registered in the Primary/Junior division who, in addition to an Ontario Teachers’ Certificate of Qualification, wish to pursue the French as a Second Language (FSL) qualification, must successfully complete the following requirements:

      • Pass an OISE French Proficiency Test prior to completing the following two courses.

      • Complete both CTL7200H Curriculum and Teaching in French as a Second Language — Primary/Junior and CTL3204H L’immersion française: enseignement et recherches within the elective space.

      • Complete one practicum placement in a French classroom following successful completion of the French Proficiency Test and both CTL7200H and CTL3204H.

    • Registration in Year 2 of the program is contingent upon successful completion of all Year 1 work.

  • Year 2 — 4.0 FCEs as follows:

    • APD2211H Language and Literacy: Understanding, Assessment, and Instruction (0.5 FCE).

    • APD2212H Mathematics Learning and Instruction (0.5 FCE).

    • APD2214H Arts Curriculum and Critical Pedagogies for Cross-Curricular Teaching (0.5 FCE).

    • APD2221Y Teaching Internship (1.0 FCE).

    • APD2222H Professional Practice: Enacting a Research-Informed Learning Cycle (0.5 FCE), taken during the internship session of Year 2.

    • APD2223H Professional Practice: Developing the Skills of Critical Friendship (0.5 FCE), taken during the academic session of Year 2.

    • APD2202H Education Seminar II: Current Issues in Teaching and Learning (0.5 FCE), taken during the internship session of Year 2.

Program Length

5 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W)

Time Limit

3 years full-time

Doctor of Education

Admissions have been administratively suspended. (See amendment made on September 19, 2023.)

Program Description

This professional doctorate is designed to prepare professionals working in the field of education (or a highly related area) to extend their professional knowledge and practice to further develop their ability to be scholar-practitioners within child study. This program aims to provide practitioners with an advanced degree to enable them to engage in innovation, advanced professional practice, and understand how the field of child study can inform decision making in multiple contexts including the classroom.

This degree is designed for practitioners who are working within contexts in which children are served or supported and/or with individuals who support or guide those who work with children (for example, parents, families, and teachers).

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program is only available on a full-time basis.

Delivery options: Although not all elective courses are offered in each modality, students may be able to complete the EdD degree program through one of two delivery modes:

• in-person (students will mainly complete their coursework and other program requirements in-person, with up to one-third of their coursework online); and
• hybrid (students will experience a mix of modes of engagement, with some of their coursework and other program requirements in-person and between one-third and two-thirds of their coursework online) depending on their choice of emphases and elective courses.

Note: students should consult with their faculty advisor and/or graduate liaison officer regarding available options.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below. Please note that applicants will be accepted into this degree program every other year.

• A master’s degree: an MA or MEd degree in Education (for example, Master of Arts in Child Study and Education, Master of Education degree, Master of Teaching degree) with high academic standing (equivalent to a B+ or better) from a recognized university. Applicants with master’s degrees in other disciplines may be eligible to apply for admission, but may have to complete additional courses in developmental psychology and/or child study.

• Letter of Intent: applicants must submit a well-written letter of intent in which they highlight their research interests, provide some insight into the problem of practice they are currently wishing to address, and describe their professional experiences and how these relate to their research interests and proposed problem of practice.

• Normally applicants will have in-depth work experience (i.e., normally a minimum of 3 years of current or recent work experience) in an education-related field within a school or community setting. They should be able to identify how their work environment would be able to support and facilitate their research related to their problem of practice, which is a major outcome of this degree.

• A letter from an employer supporting the potential candidate’s goals and ability to conduct their applied research within the school or community setting is required.

• Applicants who hold an MEd or other non-thesis master’s degree must submit evidence of their ability to identify a research question or problem, to design and conduct a research study or project, and to report the findings or results, all in a rigorous manner. This constitutes a Qualifying Research Paper (QRP) or Major Research Paper (MRP). Applicants who do not have a QRP or MRP must provide a writing sample that highlights their ability to write clearly and analytically about issues in education and/or child study. Examples include a single authored master’s-level course paper, a policy document, or a professional publication.

• An interview may be required prior to admission.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete a minimum of 4.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD3301H Issues in Child Study and Education: Research, Policy, and Problems of Practice (RM) (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3302H Advanced Study of Critical Issues in Special Education, Mental Health, and Child Security (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3303H Advanced Study of Tools and Research Methods for Investigating Problems of Practice: Data-Driven Research for Decision-Making (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3304H Research Proposal Development (RM) (0.5 FCE).

  • Two half courses (1.0 FCE) from one of the three emphases: 1) Early Learning and Early Years; 2) Mental Health and Wellbeing; or 3) Special Education. See details on each emphasis below.

  • Research Methods course (select from the list of available research methods courses) (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3305H Systems and Organizational Change (0.5 FCE).

• Students will have successfully reached candidacy once their thesis committee is formed and formal approval of the thesis proposal has been given by the committee.

• The thesis (Dissertation in Practice) is the culminating component of the Doctor of Education degree in Child Study and Education that shall include an identification and investigation of a problem of practice, the application of theory and research to problems of practice and/or policy and a design for implementation of ideas arising. Specifically, the thesis (Dissertation in Practice) consists of original research in the form of a written proposal or plan for innovative and impactful educational policy, guideline, advocacy, development project, or activism within an education-related field, aimed at improving practice at local, regional, national, or international levels.

• Students are full-time and must maintain continuous, full-time registration and pay full-time fees until all degree requirements, including the thesis (Dissertation in Practice), are completed.

• Students cannot transfer between the EdD and PhD programs.

Program Length

4 years full-time

Time Limit

6 years

Emphasis: Early Learning and Early Years

This emphasis will allow students to take specialized courses which address social emotional wellbeing in the early years. This emphasis is designed to help students gain a deeper understanding and expertise in early learning and early years while also integrating their knowledge and understanding of special education, security, and child and youth wellbeing.

• Coursework. From the following course list, EdD students must successfully complete 1.0 full-course equivalent (FCE), which is counted towards the total FCEs required for the student's degree program:

  • APD1211H, APD1249H, APD1272H, APD1280H, APD1286H, APD3273H.

Upon successful completion of the emphasis requirements and degree requirements, students may make a request to the CSE Program Administrator to have the emphasis noted on the student transcript. This request must be made before graduation. A course can only be applied to the requirements of a single emphasis.

Emphasis: Mental Health and Wellbeing

This emphasis will allow students to take specialized courses which address the mental health of children and/or youth in various settings including the classroom as well as delve into issues of risk and resilience and culture. This emphasis is designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of and expertise in special education, security, and child and youth wellbeing.

• Coursework. From the following course list, EdD students must successfully complete 1.0 full-course equivalent (FCE), which is counted towards the total FCEs required for the student's degree program:

  • APD1236H, APD1256H, APD1279H, APD1295H, APD1297H, APD3221H.

Upon successful completion of the emphasis requirements and degree requirements, students may make a request to the CSE Program Administrator to have the emphasis noted on the student transcript. This request must be made before graduation. A course can only be applied to the requirements of a single emphasis.

Emphasis: Special Education

This emphasis will allow students to take specialized courses that delve into specific domains of special education. This emphasis is designed to help students gain a deeper understanding of and expertise in special education while also considering issues pertaining to security and child and youth wellbeing.

• Coursework. From the following course list, EdD students must successfully complete 1.0 full-course equivalent (FCE), which is counted towards the total FCEs required for the student's degree program:

  • APD1271H, APD1285H, APD1296H, APD2275H, APD2296H.

Upon successful completion of the emphasis requirements and degree requirements, students may make a request to the CSE Program Administrator to have the emphasis noted on the student transcript. This request must be made before graduation. A course can only be applied to the requirements of a single emphasis.

Year 1 Required Courses

Note: Students without an undergraduate course credit in child development must take APD1201H Child and Adolescent Development as one of their electives.

Year 2 Required Courses

Registration in Year 2 is contingent upon successful completion of all Year 1 work.

Academic Session

Internship Session

In addition, students must demonstrate knowledge of the Acts and Regulations respecting education in Ontario (addressed in APD2202H).

French as a Second Language Qualification Courses

• Eligible students registered in the Primary/Junior division who, in addition to an Ontario Teachers’ Certificate of Qualification, wish to pursue the French as a Second Language (FSL) qualification, must successfully complete the following requirements:

  • Pass an OISE French Proficiency Test prior to completing the following two courses.

  • Complete both CTL7200H Curriculum and Teaching in French as a Second Language — Primary/Junior and CTL3204H L’immersion française: enseignement et recherches within the elective space.

  • Complete one practicum placement in a French classroom following successful completion of the French Proficiency Test and both CTL7200H and CTL3204H.

Recommended Elective Courses

Depending on their career goals, students may wish to select courses and placements to focus on particular areas:

Special Education

Students planning a career in special needs education may consider Special Education as a focused area of study. Such students are strongly encouraged to complete two recommended Special Education electives beyond their core foundation course (APD2270Y).

Early Childhood

Students interested in kindergarten programs may consider Early Childhood as a focused area of study. Such students are strongly encouraged to complete one or more recommended Early Childhood elective course plus an internship in a kindergarten class.

Course List

Not all courses are offered every year. Please review the course schedule on the Registrar’s Office and Student Experience website.

Individual Reading and Research Courses

⁰ Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

Master of Arts

Program Description

The Counselling and Clinical Psychology program offers studies leading to the MA and PhD degrees. It is offered by the graduate Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), St. George campus, and the Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC).

This graduate program is intended for students seeking to pursue careers in research, teaching, and clinical practice. At the time of application, students will be required to identify a preference for a specific field as well as for a potential supervisor with whom they would work if admitted to the program.

The program has two fields:

• Clinical and Counselling Psychology, offered by OISE;

• Clinical Psychology, offered by UTSC.

The field in Clinical and Counselling Psychology is offered by the OISE Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development. This field is based on a bio-psycho-social model with an emphasis on diversity. It shares an emphasis with the Clinical Psychology field on the assessment and treatment of psychopathology in adults.

This MA program is designed for applicants interested in working as researchers or practitioners in a variety of psychological and educational settings. This program enables students to apply for registration with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) as a Psychological Associate. It also fulfils the course and practicum requirements of students who plan to apply to the PhD program, Clinical and Counselling Psychology field at OISE.

The MA is taken on a full-time or part-time basis. However, students in the part-time option will be required to complete one year of full-time study to fulfil their degree requirements.

For 2023-24 and further extension to the 2024-25 academic year, admissions to the part-time option have been administratively suspended.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree in psychology or any appropriate bachelor's degree that would contain the psychology requirement equivalent (defined as 6.0 full-course equivalents [FCEs] in psychology, including 0.5 FCE in research methods and 0.5 FCE in statistics. It is expected that students will have completed 1.0 FCE at the third- or fourth-year level in each of three core areas of general psychology:

  • biological bases of behaviour (for example, physiological psychology, comparative psychology, neuropsychology, psychopharmacology);

  • cognitive/affective bases of behaviour (for example, learning, sensation, perception, cognition, thinking, motivation, emotion); and

  • social bases of behaviour (for example, social psychology; cultural, ethnic, and group processes; sex roles; organizational and systems theory).

Students who are missing courses in these core content areas will be required to complete additional courses during the MA or PhD degrees.

• A standing equivalent to a University of Toronto A– or better in the final year.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete a total of 4.5 FCEs as follows:

  • APD1202H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part I (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1203Y⁺Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy (1.0 FCE) (500 hours of practicum). MA students will attend a minimum of three colloquium presentations during their program, which partially fulfills the course requirements for APD1203Y⁺.

  • APD1208Y⁺Cognitive and Personality Theory and Assessment (1.0 FCE).

  • APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1228H Couples Counselling (0.5 FCE) or APD1261H Group Work in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE) (or an equivalent course).

  • APD1263H Research Methods for Clinical and Counselling Psychology (RM) (0.5 FCE).

  • JOI1288H Intermediate Statistics and Research Design (RM) (0.5 FCE).

• Master's thesis.

• Full-time option: Full-time, on-campus study is required from September to April, which represents the Fall and Winter sessions. Normally, 1.5 FCEs are taken in each of the Fall and Winter sessions and a maximum of 1.0 FCE in the Summer session. Under this option, it is expected that all degree requirements will be completed within two years.

• Part-time option (for 2023-24 and further extension to the 2024-25 academic year, admissions to the part-time option have been administratively suspended): For this option, students can register as part-time students at the beginning of their program. However, they will be required to register as full-time students for one year of the program. In this option, students will normally take 1.0 FCE annually during the beginning of their program and 1.5 FCEs in each of the Fall and Winter sessions in their year of full-time study. Once they have begun their last required course, they must register continuously and pay the part-time fees until all degree requirements have been completed. Under this option, it is expected that all degree requirements will be completed within two to three years, up to a maximum of six years.

Program Length

6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S);
10 sessions part-time

Time Limit

3 years full-time;
6 years part-time

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Doctor of Philosophy

Program Description

The Counselling and Clinical Psychology program offers studies leading to the MA and PhD degrees. It is offered by the graduate Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), St. George campus, and the Graduate Department of Psychological Clinical Science at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC).

This graduate program is intended for students seeking to pursue careers in research, teaching, and clinical practice. At the time of application, students will be required to identify a preference for a specific field as well as for a potential supervisor with whom they would work if admitted to the program.

The program has two fields:

• Clinical and Counselling Psychology, offered by OISE;

• Clinical Psychology, offered by UTSC.

The field in Clinical and Counselling Psychology is offered by the OISE Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development. This field is based on a bio-psycho-social model with an emphasis on diversity. It shares an emphasis with the Clinical Psychology field on the assessment and treatment of psychopathology in adults.

The principal aim of this PhD program is the development of research and theoretical knowledge in counselling and clinical psychology, assessment skills, and knowledge and training in professional issues. Students are expected to conduct advanced research and to develop professional knowledge and skills. Graduates will be prepared to assume a variety of positions in psychological teaching, research, and practice in universities, community settings and agencies offering psychological services, and in university or college counselling centres.

The Clinical and Counselling Psychology field offers both a full-time and flexible-time PhD, and progress in the program will be reviewed annually. This field was accredited in both the areas of counselling and clinical psychology by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) for a six-year term in 2022. It is currently the only program in Canada to hold such a dual accreditation status.

For 2023-24 and further extension to the 2024-25 academic year, admissions to the flexible-time PhD option have been administratively suspended.

PhD Program

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree in psychology or any appropriate bachelor's degree that would contain the psychology requirement equivalent (defined as 6.0 full-course equivalents [FCEs] in psychology, including 0.5 FCE in research methods and 0.5 FCE in statistics, with a standing equivalent to a University of Toronto A– or better in the final year. It is expected that students will have completed 1.0 FCE at the third- or fourth-year level in each of three core areas of general psychology:

  • biological bases of behaviour (for example, physiological psychology; comparative psychology, neuropsychology, psychopharmacology);

  • cognitive/affective bases of behaviour (for example, learning, sensation, perception, cognition, thinking, motivation, emotion); and

  • social bases of behaviour (for example, social psychology; cultural, ethnic, and group processes; sex roles; organizational and systems theory).

Students who are missing courses in these areas may be required to complete additional courses during the degree.

• A University of Toronto MA degree in Clinical and Counselling Psychology with a grade of A– or better, or its equivalent. However, if the master's program was not equivalent to the U of T MA in Counselling and Clinical Psychology, the student will be required to take additional courses to receive equivalent training.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete a minimum of 5.5 FCEs as follows:

  • 2.5 FCEs in Counselling and Psychotherapy:

    • APD3215H Advanced Psychotherapy Seminar;

    • APD3217Y⁺Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (Credit/No Credit; 600-hour practicum); and APD3268Y Internship in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (1,600-hour internship — arrangements must be made in consultation with the Director of Clinical Training). PhD students will attend a minimum of six colloquium presentations during their program, which partially fulfills the course requirements for APD3268Y.

  • 1.0 FCE in Psychology Measurement/Assessment and Diagnosis:

    • APD3225H Assessment and Diagnosis of Personality and Psychopathology; and

    • APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems.

  • 0.5 FCE in Supervision and Consultation:

    • APD3261H⁺Clinical Supervision and Consultation Practicum.

  • 1.0 FCE in Advanced Research Methods:

    • APD3202H A Foundation of Program Evaluation in Social Sciences (RM); and

    • An advanced-level statistics course (in consultation with supervisors). Courses can be drawn from those offered at OISE or other Faculties with the permission of the instructor.

  • 0.5 FCE in History and Systems Psychology:

    • APD3204H Contemporary History and Systems in Human Development and Applied Psychology.

• Comprehensive examination: In addition to normal course requirements, students will complete two comprehensive components. First, a manuscript for publication and presentation at a peer review conference, normally in Year 1 of the program. Second, students will be examined systematically in general psychology and in professional psychology. The examination will normally be taken at the end of Year 2 of full-time study.

• Doctoral dissertation: All students must develop, complete, and defend in a Doctoral Final Oral Examination a doctoral dissertation supervised by a full-time member of the Counselling and Clinical Psychology faculty. The content of such dissertation research may address theoretical issues applicable to clinical and counselling concerns and practice, relate to the development of programs in a variety of educational or applied settings, or in some other way contribute to the development and practice of clinical and counselling psychology.

• Students must register continuously and pay the full-time fee until all degree requirements have been fulfilled.

• Students cannot transfer between the full-time and flexible-time PhD options.

Program Length

5 years

Time Limit

6 years

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

PhD Program (Flexible-Time)

For 2023-24 and further extension to the 2024-25 academic year, admissions to the flexible-time PhD option have been administratively suspended.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree in psychology or any appropriate bachelor's degree that would contain the psychology requirement equivalent (defined as 6.0 full-course equivalents [FCEs] in psychology, including 0.5 FCE in research methods and 0.5 FCE in statistics, with a standing equivalent to a University of Toronto A– or better in the final year. It is expected that students will have completed 1.0 FCE at the third- or fourth-year level in each of three core areas of general psychology:

  • biological bases of behaviour (for example, physiological psychology; comparative psychology, neuropsychology, psychopharmacology);

  • cognitive/affective bases of behaviour (for example, learning, sensation, perception, cognition, thinking, motivation, emotion); and

  • social bases of behaviour (for example, social psychology; cultural, ethnic, and group processes; sex roles; organizational and systems theory).

Students who are missing courses in these areas may be required to complete additional courses during the degree.

• A University of Toronto MA degree in Clinical and Counselling Psychology with a grade of A– or better, or its equivalent. However, if the master's program was not equivalent to the U of T MA in Counselling and Clinical Psychology, the student will be required to take additional courses to receive equivalent training.

• Applicants to the flexible-time PhD option are accepted under the same admission requirements as applicants to the full-time PhD option; the exception is that applicants must demonstrate that they are currently employed, and active professionals engaged in activities relevant to their proposed program of study.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete a minimum of 5.5 FCEs as follows:

  • 2.5 FCEs in Counselling and Psychotherapy:

    • APD3215H Advanced Psychotherapy Seminar;

    • APD3217Y⁺Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (Credit/No Credit; 600-hour practicum); and APD3268Y Internship in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (1,600-hour internship — arrangements must be made in consultation with the Coordinator of Internship and Counselling Services). PhD students will attend a minimum of six colloquium presentations during their program, which partially fulfills the course requirements for APD3268Y.

  • 1.0 FCE in Psychology Measurement/Assessment and Diagnosis:

    • APD3225H Assessment and Diagnosis of Personality and Psychopathology; and

    • APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems.

  • 0.5 FCE in Supervision and Consultation:

    • APD3261H⁺Clinical Supervision and Consultation Practicum.

  • 1.0 FCE in Advanced Research Methods:

    • APD3202H A Foundation of Program Evaluation in Social Sciences (RM); and

    • An advanced-level statistics course (in consultation with supervisors). Courses can be drawn from those offered at OISE or other Faculties with the permission of the instructor.

  • 0.5 FCE in History and Systems Psychology (if not already satisfied by the completion of a third- or fourth-year undergraduate psychology course in this area):

    • APD3204H Contemporary History and Systems in Human Development and Applied Psychology.

• Comprehensive examination: In addition to normal course requirements, students will complete two comprehensive components. First, a manuscript for publication and presentation at a peer review conference, normally in Year 1 of the program. Second, students will be examined systematically in general psychology and in professional psychology. The examination will normally be taken at the end of Year 2 of full-time study.

• Doctoral dissertation: All students must develop, complete, and defend in a Doctoral Final Oral Examination a doctoral dissertation supervised by a full-time member of the Counselling and Clinical Psychology faculty. The content of such dissertation research may address theoretical issues applicable to clinical and counselling concerns and practice, relate to the development of programs in a variety of educational or applied settings, or in some other way contribute to the development and practice of clinical and counselling psychology.

• Students must register continuously until all degree requirements have been fulfilled. They must register full-time during the first four years and may continue as part-time thereafter, with their department's approval.

• Students cannot transfer between the full-time and flexible-time PhD options.

Program Length

6 years

Time Limit

8 years

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Not all courses are offered every year. Please review the course schedule on the Registrar’s Office and Student Experience website.

Individual Reading and Research Courses

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Master of Education

Program Description

The field in Counselling and Psychotherapy, within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for counselling individuals across a variety of work settings. Students are encouraged to tailor their courses and practicum learning experiences to meet their particular learning goals. Examples of the types of goals for which suitable programs of study could be developed include counselling and psychotherapy with adults, college and university students, or older adults: career counselling; counselling with diverse clients; and counselling and psychotherapy in community mental health and family service settings. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and as a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).

The MEd program is typically offered on a full-time basis with a limited number of part-time spots available.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree of any background or discipline, with a grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the final year, from a recognized university.

• At least one year of relevant counselling-related experience.

• Two letters of reference.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD1202H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part I (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1203Y⁺Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy (1.0 FCE). The practicum placement is the supervised training component of this course.

  • APD1214H Critical Multicultural Practice: Diversity Issues in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE; corequisites: APD1202H and APD1302H).

  • APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1260H Family Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD1261H Group Work in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1302H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part II (0.5 FCE).

  • 1.5 FCEs in electives. Recommended electives: one of

    • APD1266H Career Counselling and Development: Transition from School to Work (0.5 FCE),

    • APD1267H Emotion-Focused Therapy (0.5 FCE),

    • APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood (0.5 FCE),

    • APD1278H Cognitive Therapy (0.5 FCE).

• A comprehensive examination. Upon completion of program course requirements, students must pass a written comprehensive exam of selected topics from the program curriculum and training.

• Optional additional practicum, counted as one of the electives. Students may choose to complete a practicum (APD1247H Practicum in Adult Counselling and Psychotherapy) for an additional 250 hours of field placement concurrent with the required course (APD1203Y⁺Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy). Arrangements for the practicum placement must be made in consultation with and the approval of the Director of Clinical Training.

Program Length

5 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W);
10 sessions part-time

Time Limit

3 years full-time;
6 years part-time

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Master of Education

Program Description

The field in Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology, within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for the field of mental health and counselling psychology in international contexts. Students will be prepared to work in a variety of global applied settings with a focus on mental health. This degree program is ideally suited to students interested in an international perspective of mental health and counselling. This degree is cohort based and is offered full-time only.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree, with a grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the final year, from a recognized university.

• At least one year of relevant counselling-related experience.

• Two letters of reference.

• Normally, an interview is required prior to admission.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1228H Couples Counselling (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1278H Cognitive Therapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context (0.5 FCE).

  • APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research (0.5 FCE).

  • APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master's Level (0.5 FCE).

  • In consultation with the program chair, students will take APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood, APD1291H Addictive Behaviours: Approaches to Assessment and Intervention, or another elective.

Program Length

4 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F)

Time Limit

3 years full-time

1) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Medicine (China Medical University)

Program Description

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and China Medical University (CMU)'s Master of Medicine (MMed) in Psychiatry and Mental Health programs.

In Year 1, students complete MMed coursework at CMU in Liaoning Province, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MMed coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at CMU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Students will gain both degrees in three years rather than the four years it would take to acquire the degrees independently.

Contact

Master of Education / Master of Medicine Program
Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd/programs/master-education-counselling-psychology-global-mental-health-counselling-psychology-field/med

Master of Education Program
Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, University of Toronto
Email: admissions.oise@utoronto.ca

Master of Medicine Program
Department of Medical Psychology and Mental Health, China Medical University
Email: mqu@cmu.edu.cn

Application Process

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Medical Psychology and Mental Health at CMU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• In order to be admitted to the dual degree program, applicants must meet the admission requirements of both programs. The admission requirements of the GMHCP field within the MEd program are stated below.

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Toronto as well as the specific requirements of the MEd program.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a standing in the final year equivalent to at least a U of T B+.

• At least one year of relevant counselling experience, which could be paid or volunteer.

• Two letters of reference.

• Normally, an interview is required prior to admission to the MEd program.

Program Requirements

During their U of T registration in the GMHCP field within the MEd program, students must successfully complete a total of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs).

Year 1

• Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MMed courses at CMU.

Year 2

• Students complete the following Year 2 MEd courses at U of T.

• Fall session (1.5 FCEs):

  • APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology.

  • APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context.

  • In consultation with the program chair, students will take APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood, APD1291H Addictive Behaviours: Approaches to Assessment and Intervention, or another elective.

• ​Winter session (2.0 FCEs):

  • ​APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy.

  • APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

  • APD1278H Cognitive Therapy.

  • APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research.

• May-to-June period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

  • APD1228H Couples Counselling.

• July-to-August period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

  • APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master’s Level.

Year 3

• Fall session (0.5 FCE):

  • Complete the U of T MEd course APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health. This is a 250-hour placement in an approved field setting and must be arranged prior to admission to this program.

  • Continue the MMed program requirements at CMU.

• Winter and Summer sessions:

  • Complete the MMed program requirements at CMU.

Program Length

9 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S/F/W/S)

2) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Science (China Medical University)

Program Description

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and China Medical University (CMU)'s Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Psychology programs.

In Year 1, students complete MSc coursework at CMU in Liaoning Province, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MSc coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at CMU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Students will gain both degrees in three years rather than the four years it would take to acquire the degrees independently.

Contact

Master of Education / Master of Science Program
Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd/programs/master-education-counselling-psychology-global-mental-health-counselling-psychology-field/med

Master of Education Program
Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, University of Toronto
Email: admissions.oise@utoronto.ca

Master of Science Program
Department of Applied Psychology, China Medical University
Email: mqu@cmu.edu.cn

Application Process

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Applied Psychology at CMU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• In order to be admitted to the dual degree program, applicants must meet the admission requirements of both programs. The admission requirements of the GMHCP field within the MEd program are stated below.

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Toronto as well as the specific requirements of the MEd program.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a standing in the final year equivalent to at least a U of T B+.

• At least one year of relevant experience, which could be paid or volunteer.

• Two letters of reference.

• Normally, an interview is required prior to admission to the MEd program.

Program Requirements

During their U of T registration in the GMHCP field within the MEd program, students must successfully complete a total of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs).

Year 1

• Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MSc courses at CMU.

Year 2

• Students complete the following Year 2 MEd courses at U of T.

• Fall session (1.5 FCEs):

  • APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology.

  • APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context.

  • In consultation with the program chair, students will take APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood, APD1291H Addictive Behaviours: Approaches to Assessment and Intervention, or another elective.

• ​Winter session (2.0 FCEs):

  • ​APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy.

  • APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

  • APD1278H Cognitive Therapy.

  • APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research.

• May-to-June period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

  • APD1228H Couples Counselling.

• July-to-August period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

  • APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master’s Level.

Year 3

• Fall session (0.5 FCE):

  • Complete the U of T MEd course APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health. This is a 250-hour placement in an approved field setting and must be arranged prior to admission to this program.

  • Continue the MSc program requirements at CMU.

• Winter and Summer sessions:

  • Complete the MSc program requirements at CMU.

Program Length

9 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S/F/W/S)

3) Dual Degree Program: Master of Education (University of Toronto) / Master of Applied Psychology (Zhejiang University)

Admissions to this dual degree program have been administratively suspended for the 2024-25 admissions cycle.

Program Description

This dual degree program creates a pathway between U of T's Master of Education (MEd) in Counselling Psychology, Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology (GMHCP) field and Zhejiang University (ZJU)'s Master of Applied Psychology (MAP) programs.

In Year 1, students complete MAP coursework at ZJU in Hangzhou, China. In Year 2, students complete MEd coursework at U of T in Toronto, Canada. In the Fall session of Year 3, students complete the last course of the MEd requirement (a practicum) in China along with the Year 3 MAP coursework. In Year 3, students will also complete a master's thesis at ZJU as part of the dual degree requirements.

Students will gain both degrees in three years rather than the four years it would take to acquire the degrees independently.

Contact

Master of Education / Master of Science Program
Web: www.oise.utoronto.ca/aphd/programs/master-education-counselling-psychology-global-mental-health-counselling-psychology-field/med

Master of Education Program
Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, University of Toronto
Email: admissions.oise@utoronto.ca

Master of Applied Psychology Program
Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science, Zhejiang University
Email: jiananzhong@zju.edu.cn

Application Process

• Applicants must apply directly to both the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development at U of T and the Department of Psychology and Behavioural Science at ZJU. Applicants must apply through U of T’s School of Graduate Studies online admissions application system.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• In order to be admitted to the dual degree program, applicants must meet the admission requirements of both programs. The admission requirements of the GMHCP field within the MEd program are stated below.

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Toronto as well as the specific requirements of the MEd program.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a standing in the final year equivalent to at least a U of T B+.

• At least one year of relevant experience, which could be paid or volunteer.

• Two letters of reference.

• Normally, an interview is required prior to admission to the MEd program.

Program Requirements

During their U of T registration in the GMHCP field within the MEd program, students must successfully complete a total of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs).

Year 1

• Fall, Winter, and Summer sessions: students complete Year 1 MAP courses at ZJU.

Year 2

• Students complete the following Year 2 MEd courses at U of T.

• Fall session (1.5 FCEs):

  • APD1282H Introduction to Global Mental Health and Counselling Psychology.

  • APD1902H Theories and Techniques of Counselling in a Global Context.

  • In consultation with the program chair, students will take APD1268H Career Counselling and Development: Transitions in Adulthood, APD1291H Addictive Behaviours: Approaches to Assessment and Intervention, or another elective.

• ​Winter session (2.0 FCEs):

  • ​APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy.

  • APD1245H Brief Strategies in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

  • APD1278H Cognitive Therapy.

  • APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research.

• May-to-June period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

  • APD1228H Couples Counselling.

• July-to-August period of the Summer session (0.5 FCE):

  • APD5000H Special Topics in Applied Psychology and Human Development: Master’s Level.

Year 3

• Fall session (0.5 FCE):

  • Complete the U of T MEd course APD1283H Peer and Video-Based Counselling with Practicum Field-Based Learning in Global Mental Health. This is a 250-hour placement in an approved field setting and must be arranged prior to admission to this program.

  • Continue the MAP program requirements at ZJU.

• Winter and Summer sessions:

  • Complete the MAP program requirements at ZJU.

Program Length

9 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S/F/W/S)

Master of Education

Program Description

The field in Guidance and Counselling, within the Counselling Psychology MEd degree program, provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and develop skills appropriate for the field of guidance and counselling in the schools. Strong preference for admission to this field is given to experienced teachers who are interested in specializing in guidance and counselling in the schools. The program of study provides students with the basic preparation for certification as a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).

The MEd program is typically offered on a full-time basis with a limited number of part-time spots available.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree, with a grade equivalent to a University of Toronto B+ or better in the final year, from a recognized university.

• Teacher certification.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD1202H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part I (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1203Y⁺Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy (1.0 FCE). The practicum placement is the supervised training component of this course.

  • APD1214H Critical Multicultural Practice: Diversity Issues in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE; corequisites: APD1202H and APD1302H).

  • APD1219H Ethical Issues in Professional Practice in Psychology and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1260H Family Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD1261H Group Work in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1262H Educational Psychological Testing for Counselling (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1266H Career Counselling and Development: Transition from School to Work (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1302H Theories and Techniques of Counselling and Psychotherapy — Part II (0.5 FCE).

  • 0.5 FCE in electives.

• A comprehensive examination. Upon completion of program course requirements, students will take a comprehensive examination of selected topics from the program curriculum and training.

• Optional additional practicum. Students may choose to complete a practicum (APD1247H Practicum in Adult Counselling and Psychotherapy) for an additional 250 hours of field placement concurrent with the required course APD1203Y⁺Practicum I: Interventions in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. Arrangements for the practicum placement must be made in consultation with and the approval of the Director of Clinical Training.

Program Length

5 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W);
10 sessions part-time

Time Limit

3 years full-time;
6 years part-time

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Doctor of Education

Program Description

Advanced counsellor training in this degree program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in educational and community settings with expertise in supervisory and consultative skills and advanced counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of counselling and psychotherapy as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school and college personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling in community and educational settings.

The field in Counselling and Psychotherapy will be especially attractive to individuals who have demonstrated a career commitment to the provision of counselling-related services in an educational and community setting. This professional doctorate is designed to prepare students to refine and build on professional knowledge and practice to support the development of scholar-practitioners to be leaders in their fields of professional practice.

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program is only available on a full-time basis.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below.

• Applicants must have the following to be admitted to the EdD program:

  • A bachelor's degree: an appropriate bachelor's degree of any background or discipline from a recognized university, with high academic standing.

  • A master's degree: an MA or MEd degree in Counselling Psychology or School and/or Clinical Child Psychology from the University of Toronto with a grade of B+ or better, or its equivalent from a recognized university. The applicant must have had successful professional experience and interest to increase and advance their knowledge of counselling and psychotherapy to become leaders in their fields. Applicants who hold an MEd or other non-thesis master's degree must submit evidence of their ability to identify a research question or problem, to design and conduct a research study or project, and to report the findings or results, all in a rigorous manner. This constitutes a Qualifying Research Paper (QRP).

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must take courses related to the development of advanced competence in counselling, psychotherapy, and mental health theory and practice and become sophisticated consumers of research in these and related fields. Students must complete a minimum of 5.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) including a practicum, internship, and thesis (dissertation in practice) as follows:

  • APD3115H⁺Research Proseminar in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3215H Advanced Psychotherapy Seminar (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3261H⁺Clinical Supervision and Consultation Practicum (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3217Y⁺Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (1.0 FCE; Credit/No Credit): complete a 500-hour practicum before the Final Oral Examination.

  • APD3270H⁰EdD Internship (0.5 FCE): complete 500 hours of internship, typically after the Final Oral Examination. All internship arrangements must be made in consultation with the Director of Clinical Training.

  • Three courses, one from each of the following three groupings:

    • APD3116H Proseminar ll: Practice-Based Research in School and Counselling Psychology

    • APD3178H Advanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD3160H Advanced Family Therapy (0.5 FCE)

    • APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems (0.5 FCE) or one elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE).

  • In addition, students must take 1.0 FCE in their specific area of focus.

    • Option 1: Counselling and Psychotherapy for Adults

      • APD3163H Advanced Multicultural Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE)

      • One elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE)

    • Option 2: Counselling and Psychotherapy for Schools and Youth

      • APD5284Y Assessment and Intervention with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (1.0 FCE).

• Optional additional practicum. Students may choose to take an optional continuous practicum (APD3271H⁰Additional PhD Practicum) in conjunction with the required doctoral practicum course APD3217Y⁺Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (Credit/No Credit).

• Thesis (dissertation in practice). All students must complete a thesis (dissertation in practice), the aim of which is to ensure excellent knowledge of counselling and psychotherapy theory, practice, and policy for professionals working with adults or youth to function as leading scholar-practitioners. The thesis (dissertation in practice) should be: a) well conceived, original, and likely to make a sustained contribution to mental health practice; b) involve creativity, innovative methods and techniques, and have the potential to improve practice; c) exemplary, sets high standards in the field, and can be emulated and; d) has the potential for significant public impact. The focus of the thesis (dissertation in practice) is expected to be on contributions to field development or to innovations in practice. Students will defend their thesis (dissertation in practice) at a Final Oral Examination.

• Students are full-time and must maintain continuous, full-time registration and pay full-time fees until all degree requirements, including the thesis (dissertation in practice), are completed.

• Students cannot transfer between the EdD and PhD programs.

Program Length

4 years full-time

Time Limit

6 years full-time

⁰ Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Doctor of Education

Program Description

Counsellor training in this degree program emphasizes the role of the counsellor in educational and community settings with the goal of enhancing their expertise in their professional roles including supervisory and consultative skills and the advanced study of counselling theory and practice. Graduates will be prepared to take leadership positions in the field of counselling and psychotherapy; as educators in colleges and institutes of education; as directors and coordinators of school guidance programs; as specialists in the provision of counselling-related, in-service training for school and college personnel; and as providers of advanced levels of personal counselling in community and educational settings.

The field in School Psychology will be especially attractive to practitioners providing direct services to children and youth in the education system (K-12) and will provide school psychology practitioners with core theoretical and practical training needed to develop research-informed leaders in the field of school psychology. The program is structured to provide students with the requirements necessary for registration as a School Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario.

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program is only available on a full-time basis.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the additional admission requirements of the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development stated below.

• Applicants must have the following to be admitted to the EdD program:

  • A bachelor's degree: an appropriate bachelor's degree of any background or discipline from a recognized university, with high academic standing.

  • A master's degree: an MA or MEd degree in Counselling Psychology or School and/or Clinical Child Psychology from the University of Toronto with a grade of B+ or better, or its equivalent from a recognized university. The applicant must have had successful professional experience and interest to increase and advance their knowledge of counselling and psychotherapy to become leaders in their fields. Applicants who hold an MEd or other non-thesis master's degree must submit evidence of their ability to identify a research question or problem, to design and conduct a research study or project, and to report the findings or results, all in a rigorous manner. This constitutes a Qualifying Research Paper (QRP).

  • Applicants must demonstrate either undergraduate- or graduate-level competence in each of the five core content areas of psychology: 1) Biological Bases of Behaviour; 2) Cognitive/Affective Bases of Behaviour; 3) Historical and Scientific Foundations of Psychology; 4) Scientific and Professional Ethics (graduate level); and 5) Social Bases of Behaviour, by successful completion of

    • 1.0 full-course equivalent (FCE) at the second-, third-, or fourth-year undergraduate level or

    • 0.5 FCE at the graduate level.

  • If the above requirements are not met, students must take additional courses to ensure they have completed the above requirements by the end of their program.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must take courses related to the development of advanced competence in counselling, psychotherapy, and mental health theory and practice and become sophisticated consumers of research in these and related fields. Students must complete a minimum of 5.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) including a practicum, internship, and thesis (dissertation in practice) as follows:

  • APD3115H⁺Research Proseminar in Counselling and Psychotherapy (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3215H Advanced Psychotherapy Seminar (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3261H⁺Clinical Supervision and Consultation Practicum (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3217Y⁺Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (1.0 FCE; Credit/No Credit): complete a 500-hour practicum before the Final Oral Examination.

  • APD3401H Assessment with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3402H Intervention with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3403H⁰EdD Internship in School Psychology (0.5 FCE): complete 1,600 hours of internship, typically after the Final Oral Examination. All internship arrangements must be made in consultation with the Director of Clinical Training.

  • Three courses, one from each of the following three groupings:

    • APD3116H Proseminar ll: Practice-Based Research in School and Counselling Psychology.

    • APD3178H Advanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (0.5 FCE) or APD3160H Advanced Family Therapy (0.5 FCE).

    • APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems (0.5 FCE) or one elective in a special focus of interest (0.5 FCE).​

• Optional additional practicum. Students may choose to take an optional continuous practicum (APD3271H⁰Additional PhD Practicum) in conjunction with the required doctoral practicum course APD3217Y⁺Advanced Practicum in Clinical and Counselling Psychology (Credit/No Credit).

• Thesis (dissertation in practice). All students must complete a thesis (dissertation in practice), the aim of which is to ensure excellent knowledge of counselling or school psychology theory, practice, and policy for professionals working with adults or children/youth to function as leading scholar-practitioners. The thesis (dissertation in practice) should be: a) well conceived, original, and likely to make a sustained contribution to mental health or school psychology practice; b) involve creativity, innovative methods and techniques, and have the potential to improve practice; c) exemplary, sets high standards in the field, and can be emulated and; d) has the potential for significant public impact. The focus of the thesis (dissertation in practice) is expected to be on contributions to field development or to innovations in practice. Students will defend their thesis (dissertation in practice) at a Final Oral Examination.

• Students are full-time and must maintain continuous, full-time registration and pay full-time fees until all degree requirements, including the thesis (dissertation in practice), are completed.

• Students cannot transfer between the EdD and PhD programs.

Program Length

4 years full-time

Time Limit

6 years full-time

⁰ Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Not all courses are offered every year. Please review the course schedule on the Registrar’s Office and Student Experience website.

Individual Reading and Research Courses

⁰ Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Master of Arts

Program Description

The Developmental Psychology and Education program offers studies leading to the MA, MEd, and PhD degrees. Students have an opportunity to construct an overall perspective on developmental psychology and human development and their implications for practice with children in educational and other applied settings.

Students take foundation courses in human development and research methodology in consultation with their advisor. Elective courses cover a range of areas including cognitive, social, and emotional development; cognition and instruction (language, literacy, and mathematics); special education and adaptive instruction; developmental neuroscience; advanced research methodology and evaluation; and early childhood policy and programs, including child care. The MA program is designed for students wishing to pursue an academic or research-based career.

Delivery modes: Although not all elective courses are offered in each modality, students may be able to complete the MA degree program through one of two delivery modes:

• in-person (students will mainly complete their coursework and other program requirements in-person, with up to one-third of their coursework online); and
• hybrid (students will experience a mix of modes of engagement, with some of their coursework and other program requirements in-person and between one-third and two-thirds of their coursework online) depending on their choice of elective courses.

Note: students should consult with their faculty advisor and/or graduate liaison officer regarding available options.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree with the equivalent of a University of Toronto A– or better. Although most applicants will have a degree in psychology, applicants with an appropriate bachelor's degree in cognitive science, computer science, linguistics, or a helping profession such as occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, physiotherapy, nursing, social work, or another discipline relevant to their specific program of study are also eligible to apply for admission.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 2.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD1209H Research Methods and Thesis Preparation in Human Development and Applied Psychology (0.5 FCE).

  • JOI1288H Intermediate Statistics and Research Design (RM) (0.5 FCE).

  • Two elective courses (1.0 FCE total) chosen in consultation with the student's advisor, which may include APD2252H Individual Reading and Research (0.5 FCE).

  • Students who have not taken a previous course in human development are required to take APD1201H Child and Adolescent Development (0.5 FCE) or an equivalent.

  • In addition to their required 2.0 FCEs, students who have not taken a previous course in statistics are required to take JOI1287H Introduction to Applied Statistics or an equivalent course.

• Master's thesis.

Program Length

3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S)

Time Limit

3 years full-time

Master of Education

Program Description

The Developmental Psychology and Education program offers studies leading to the MA, MEd, and PhD degrees. Students have an opportunity to construct an overall perspective on developmental psychology and human development and their implications for practice with children in educational and other applied settings. The Master of Education (MEd) program is designed for the reflective teacher or other practitioner in education or in any other field. This is a degree primarily designed for those working in applied settings and it does not include a research thesis.

Students take foundation courses in human development and research methodology. Elective courses cover a range of areas including cognitive, social, and emotional development; cognition and instruction (language, literacy, and mathematics); special education and adaptive instruction; program evaluation and mental health; advanced research methodology and evaluation; and early childhood policy and programs, including child care.

The MEd program can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis.

Delivery options: Although not all elective courses are offered in each modality, students may be able to complete the MEd degree program through one of three delivery modes:

• in-person (students will mainly complete their coursework and other program requirements in-person, with up to one-third of their coursework online);
• hybrid (students will experience a mix of modes of engagement, with some of their coursework and other program requirements in-person and between one-third and two-thirds of their coursework online); and
• online (students will be able to complete all their coursework and other program requirements online) depending on their choice of emphases and elective courses.

Note: students should consult with their faculty advisor and/or graduate liaison officer regarding available options.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the department's additional admission requirements stated below.

• Admission to the MEd program normally requires an appropriate bachelor's degree with standing equivalent to a University of Toronto mid-B or better.

• Applicants normally have at least one year of relevant professional experience.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD1200H Foundations of Human Development and Education (0.5 FCE).

  • APD2293H Interpretation of Educational Research (0.5 FCE).

  • 2.0 additional FCEs must be selected from the department electives list, available on the departmental website or in the Applied Psychology and Human Development program guidelines.

  • The remaining 2.0 elective FCEs may be taken from within or outside the department. Elective courses must be chosen in consultation with the student's faculty advisor. Students are asked to meet with their faculty advisor in the first session of their program.

Program Length

4 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F);
10 sessions part-time

Time Limit

3 years full-time;
6 years part-time

Emphasis: Program Evaluation

Program Description

Within the MEd program in Developmental Psychology and Education, the emphasis in Program Evaluation is designed to engage students in an exploration of program evaluation used in education, psychology, and the social sciences. Program evaluation is a systematic analysis of the process, effectiveness, and outcomes of programs whose primary purpose is to assess what components of a program are or are not working, and why.

Students will learn the concepts and theories needed to critically review evaluation designs and how to develop the core components of program evaluation proposals and reports. As such, students will develop the basic competencies needed for program evaluation, including the ability to: critically appraise evaluation research; assess program needs; develop a logic model; evaluate the processes and outcomes of a program; evaluate program efficiency; weigh ethical issues; warrant evaluation claims; and communicate with interested parties. Furthermore, students will also learn how social, cultural, and political factors impact program evaluation.

Program Requirements

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 1.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs), which are counted towards the total FCEs required for the student's degree program, as follows: 1.0 FCE from the Program Evaluation menu and 0.5 FCE from the Research Methods menu, listed below.

• Program Evaluation menu (1.0 FCE from the following, which must include at least one of APD1212H and/or APD3202H):

  • APD1212H Basics to Program Evaluation in Social Sciences.

  • APD1250H Program Evaluation Practicum.

  • APD1292H Instrument Design and Analysis (RM).

  • APD3202H A Foundation of Program Evaluation in Social Sciences (RM).

  • APD3305H Systems and Organizational Change.

• Research Methods menu (0.5 FCE from the following):

  • APD1210H Research Practicum.

  • APD3201H Qualitative Research Methods in Human Development and Applied Psychology (RM).

  • JOI1287H Introduction to Applied Statistics (RM).

  • JOI1288H Intermediate Statistics and Research Design (RM).

  • JOI3043H Development and Use of Surveys in Education Research (RM).

  • JOI3048H Intermediate Statistics in Educational Research: Multiple Regression Analysis (RM).

  • JOI3228H Mixed Methods Research Design in Social Sciences (RM).

Upon successful completion of the emphasis requirements and successful completion of the degree requirements, students may make a request to the MEd Developmental Psychology and Education Program Liaison to have the emphasis noted on their transcript. This request must be made before graduation.

Doctor of Philosophy

Program Description

The Developmental Psychology and Education program offers studies leading to the MA, MEd, and PhD degrees. Students have an opportunity to construct an overall perspective on developmental psychology and human development and their implications for practice with children in educational and other applied settings.

Students take courses in human development and research methodology. Elective courses, chosen in consultation with their advisor, cover a range of areas including cognitive, social, and emotional development; cognition and instruction (language, literacy, and mathematics); special education and adaptive instruction; developmental neuroscience; advanced research methodology and evaluation; and early childhood policy and programs, including child care. The PhD program is designed for students wishing to pursue an academic or research-based career.

The Developmental Psychology and Education program offers both a full-time and a flexible-time PhD program option. Applicants must declare the option for which they are interested in applying. The flexible-time PhD degree program is designed to accommodate demand by practising professionals for a PhD degree that permits continued employment in areas related to their fields of research. Degree requirements for the full-time and flexible-time options are the same.

PhD students have the option of completing an emphasis in Early Learning. Please see details below.

Delivery options: Although not all elective courses are offered in each modality, students may be able to complete the PhD degree program through one of two delivery modes:

• in-person (students will mainly complete their coursework and other program requirements in-person, with up to one-third of their coursework online); and
• hybrid (students will experience a mix of modes of engagement, with some of their coursework and other program requirements in-person and between one-third and two-thirds of their coursework online) depending on their choice of elective courses.

Note: students should consult with their faculty advisor and/or graduate liaison officer regarding available options.

PhD Program

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• Normally, an appropriate bachelor's degree and a master's degree in developmental psychology and education, cognitive psychology, applied developmental psychology, or child study, with standing equivalent to a University of Toronto A– or better in the master's degree. Applicants with master's degrees in other disciplines such as adult education, anthropology, computer science, curriculum, philosophy, or a profession such as speech-language pathology, nursing, social work, physiotherapy, or occupational therapy may be eligible to apply for admission, but may have to complete additional courses to fulfil master's-level requirements equivalent to the MA in Developmental Psychology and Education. Students who have not completed a master's thesis will be required to submit a Qualifying Research Paper (QRP) prior to final admission to the program.

• Required letters of recommendation and a second academic letter of recommendation.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 2.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD3200H Research Proseminar in Human Development and Applied Psychology (0.5 FCE).

  • 0.5 FCE in statistics and research methods from an approved menu.

  • 1.0 FCE in electives (2 X 0.5 FCE).

  • The 2.0 FCEs are normally completed in Year 1 and should be chosen in consultation with the faculty advisor. Students who have an insufficient background in developmental psychology may have to complete additional courses.

• A comprehensive examination.

  • The purposes of the comprehensive examination are threefold:

    • To demonstrate the student’s ability to work independently within an area of concern in human development.

    • To gain knowledge of a new area, a new technique or method in a specified area in human development.

    • To demonstrate the ability to integrate information at the accepted standard for a PhD student.

  • Students have two options when fulfilling their PhD comprehensive requirements:

    • Option 1: Empirical Research Paper or

    • Option 2: Internship.

• A thesis and Doctoral Final Oral Examination.

• Students must register continuously and pay the full-time fee until all degree requirements have been fulfilled.

• Students cannot transfer between the full-time and flexible-time PhD options.

Program Length

4 years

Time Limit

6 years

PhD Program (Flexible-Time)

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• Normally, an appropriate bachelor's degree and a master's degree in developmental psychology and education, cognitive psychology, applied developmental psychology, or child study, with standing equivalent to a University of Toronto A- or better in the master's degree. Applicants with master's degrees in other disciplines such as adult education, anthropology, computer science, curriculum, philosophy, or a profession such as speech-language pathology, nursing, social work, physiotherapy, or occupational therapy may be eligible to apply for admission, but may have to complete additional courses to fulfil master's-level requirements equivalent to the MA in Developmental Psychology and Education. Students who have not completed a master's thesis will be required to submit a Qualifying Research Paper (QRP) prior to final admission to the program.

• Required letters of recommendation and a second academic letter of recommendation.

• Applicants to the flexible-time PhD option are accepted under the same admission requirements as applicants to the full-time PhD option.

• Applicants must demonstrate that they are currently employed and are active professionals engaged in activities relevant to their proposed program of study.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 2.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

  • APD3200H Research Proseminar in Human Development and Applied Psychology (0.5 FCE).

  • 0.5 FCE in statistics and research methods from an approved menu.

  • 1.0 FCE in electives (2 X 0.5 FCE).

  • The 2.0 FCEs are normally completed in Year 1 and should be chosen in consultation with the faculty advisor. Students who have an insufficient background in developmental psychology may have to complete additional courses.

• A comprehensive examination.

  • The purposes of the comprehensive examination are threefold:

    • To demonstrate the student’s ability to work independently within an area of concern in human development.

    • To gain knowledge of a new area, a new technique or method in a specified area in human development.

    • To demonstrate the ability to integrate information at the accepted standard for a PhD student.

  • Students have two options when fulfilling their PhD comprehensive requirements:

    • Option 1: Empirical Research Paper or

    • Option 2: Internship.

• A thesis and Doctoral Final Oral Examination.

• Students must register continuously and pay the full-time fee until all degree requirements have been fulfilled. They must register full-time during the first four years and may continue as part-time thereafter, with their department's approval.

• Students cannot transfer between the full-time and flexible-time PhD options.

Program Length

6 years

Time Limit

8 years

Emphasis: Early Learning

Admissions to this emphasis have been administratively suspended.

Students interested in the Early Learning emphasis should consult with the Graduate Coordinator.

• Students wishing to complete the emphasis in Early Learning will include the following courses (2.0 full-course equivalents [FCEs]) in their overall PhD program:

  • APD3200H Researching Proseminar in Human Development and Applied Psychology (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3273H Researching Early Learning (0.5 FCE): an overview course of quantitative and qualitative methodology which meets the requirements of an intermediate or higher-level statistics course required of all Developmental Psychology and Education students).

  • APD1211H Psychological Foundations of Early Development and Education (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3274H Early Learning and Thesis Development (0.5 FCE).

Not all courses are offered every year. Please review the course schedule on the Registrar’s Office and Student Experience website.

Individual Reading and Research Courses

Master of Arts

Program Description

The mission of the School and Clinical Child Psychology (SCCP) program is to provide students with theoretical, research, and professional training in preparation for leadership in psychological practice with children, adolescents, and families in school, mental health, private practice, and research settings. The program follows a scientist-practitioner model and is designed to train students to conduct basic and applied research and provide professional training in psychological assessment, therapy, and other psychosocial and instructional interventions, professional consultation, and prevention.

Opportunities are available for research and professional work with infants, young children, adolescents, adults, and families. The degrees are intended to meet the academic requirements of the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) for registration as a Psychological Associate (MA) or Psychologist (PhD).

The curriculum of the SCCP program is designed to establish a strong foundation of core knowledge and skills early in the program, with students free to specialize later on. The program reflects a mix of courses and training opportunities.

A systemic approach is the basis for the training that is provided in assessment and intervention. The knowledge and skills necessary for the practice of school psychology and clinical child psychology overlap considerably, and experience in school and clinical settings complement and enhance each other. Therefore, over the course of the program of study, students are required to undertake practica in both school and clinical child settings.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• An appropriate bachelor's degree in psychology, defined as 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) in psychology, including 0.5 FCE in child development and 1.0 FCE in research methods/statistics (of which at least 0.5 FCE must be at the third or fourth-year levels) and at least 3.0 FCEs at the second, third-, or fourth-year levels. The usual admission standard is equivalency to a University of Toronto A– or better.

• Most applicants will have evidence of relevant professional experience and research experience.

• Applicants are requested to submit, in addition to two academic references, a letter of recommendation from an applied setting.

Program Requirements

• Coursework. Students must complete 5.0 FCEs (including a practicum course) and a thesis.

  • APD1205H Ethical Issues in Applied Psychology (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1215H Psychological Assessment of School-Aged Children (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1216H Psychoeducational Assessment (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1218H Seminar and Practicum in School-Based Assessment, Consultation, and Intervention (0.5 FCE). The practicum portion consists of 250 hours (one day a week from September to June) and is normally taken in a school setting.

  • APD1222H Approaches to Psychotherapy-Lifespan (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1236H Developmental Psychopathology (0.5 FCE).

  • APD1285H Psychology and Education of Children and Adolescents with Learning Disabilities (0.5 FCE).

  • JOI1288H Intermediate Statistics and Research Design (RM) (0.5 FCE).

  • 0.5 elective FCE.

  • 0.5 FCE in Cognitive/Affective bases of behaviour from an approved course listing. Note: Students who have a 1.0 FCE in Cognitive/Affective bases of behaviour at the senior undergraduate level approved by the program may substitute an elective course for this requirement or a course in the Biological Bases of Behaviour or Social Bases of Behaviour menus, or APD3204H, Contemporary History and Systems in Human Development and Applied Psychology.

• Thesis.

• A listing of approved Cognitive/Affective, Social, and Biological bases of behaviour courses is available from the department and in the Applied Psychology and Human Development program guidelines.

• In addition to the above course requirements, students who have not taken a previous child development course in their undergraduate degree program will be required to take APD1201H Childhood and Adolescent Development.

• Students who have not taken a previous statistics course or its equivalent must take JOI1287H Introduction to Applied Statistics (RM).

• Students must achieve a minimum of A– in at least one of APD1215H Psychological Assessment of School-Aged Children and APD1216H Psychoeducational Assessment, and must complete APD1218H Seminar and Practicum in School-Based Assessment, Consultation, and Intervention in order to remain in good standing and be permitted to continue in the program.

• Failure to meet these criteria will normally result in a recommendation to the School of Graduate Studies to terminate the student's registration in the program.

Program Length

6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S)

Time Limit

3 years full-time

Doctor of Philosophy

Program Description

The mission of the School and Clinical Child Psychology (SCCP) program is to provide students with theoretical, research, and professional training in preparation for leadership in psychological practice with children, adolescents, and families in school, mental health, private practice, and research settings. The program follows a scientist-practitioner model and is designed to train students to conduct basic and applied research and provide professional training in psychological assessment, therapy, and other psychosocial and instructional interventions, professional consultation, and prevention.

Opportunities are available for research and professional work with infants, young children, adolescents, adults, and families. The degrees are intended to meet the academic requirements of the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) for registration as a Psychological Associate (MA) or Psychologist (PhD).

The curriculum of the SCCP program is designed to establish a strong foundation of core knowledge and skills early in the program, with students free to specialize later on. The program reflects a mix of courses and training opportunities.

A systemic approach is the basis for the training that is provided in assessment and intervention. The knowledge and skills necessary for the practice of school psychology and clinical child psychology overlap considerably, and experience in school and clinical settings complement and enhance each other. Therefore, over the course of the program of study, students are required to undertake practica in both school and clinical child settings.

Minimum Admission Requirements

• Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development's additional admission requirements stated below.

• Normally, an appropriate bachelor's degree in psychology or its equivalent and a University of Toronto MA in School and Clinical Child Psychology or its equivalent. The usual admission standard is equivalency to a University of Toronto A– or better in the master's degree. A limited number of outstanding applicants holding equivalent bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology from elsewhere may be considered. However, if the master's program was not equivalent to the University of Toronto MA in School and Clinical Child Psychology, the student will be required to take additional courses to receive equivalent training.

• Cognate course requirements. 1.0 full-course equivalent (FCE) at the senior undergraduate level, or 0.5 FCE at the graduate level, in each of the following cognate areas: Biological Bases of Behaviour, Cognitive/Affective Bases of Behaviour, Social Bases of Behaviour, and History and Systems of Psychology.

Program Requirements

• Students must complete 5.5 FCEs, including a doctoral practicum course and an internship course, as follows:

  • APD3202H A Foundation of Program Evaluation in Social Sciences (RM) (0.5 FCE).

  • APD3222H Approaches to Psychotherapy with Children, Youth, and Families (0.5 FCE), normally taken in Year 1.

  • APD3241H⁺Seminar and Practicum in Clinical Assessment and Intervention, normally taken in Year 2. The practicum portion of APD3241H⁺ consists of 500 hours (two days a week from September to June) and is normally taken in a clinical setting. Students must complete APD3241H⁺ in order to remain in good standing and be permitted to continue in the program.

  • APD3260H Psychodiagnostic Systems (0.5 FCE).

  • APD5284Y⁺Assessment and Intervention with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Children, Youth, and Families (1.0 FCE).

  • 0.5 FCE from the Psychosocial Interventions course menu:

    • APD3224H Advanced Proactive Behavioural and Cognitive-Behavioural Interventions* or

    • APD3231H Psychodynamic Bases of Therapy*.

* Note: the course is offered every other year. Students interested in other courses that may fulfil the Psychosocial Interventions requirement must receive approval from the SCCP Program Coordinator.

• 0.5 elective FCE.

• APD3240H⁺Advanced Social and Emotional Assessment Techniques (0.5 FCE).

• APD3242Y Internship in School and Clinical Child Psychology (1.0 FCE). The internship consists of a 1,600-hour placement, normally taken on a full-time basis over the course of a year in the final year of the student's program.

• A comprehensive examination. The purpose of the SCCP comprehensive examination is to:

  • Ensure an adequate level of psychological knowledge for professional functioning as a practitioner, academic, and/or researcher.

  • Demonstrate an ability to integrate information at the accepted standard for a doctoral student.

• A doctoral dissertation.

• Students must have successfully completed all coursework, passed the comprehensive examination, and have their dissertation completed or well underway, prior to commencing their internship.

• For each missing cognate course requirement (see Cognitive/Affective, Social, or Biological Bases of Behaviour; Admission Requirements above), students are required to take a 0.5 FCE course from the applicable course menu. A listing of approved Cognitive/Affective, Social, or Biological Bases of Behaviour courses is available from the department and in the Applied Psychology and Human Development program guidelines. Students may use their elective course to cover one of these requirements.

• In addition to the above course requirements, students who have not taken a previous child development course must take APD1201H Childhood and Adolescent Development. Students who have not taken a previous statistics course or its equivalent must take JOI1287H Introduction to Applied Statistics (RM).

• Students must complete APD3241H⁺Seminar and Practicum in Clinical Assessment and Intervention in order to remain in good standing and be permitted to continue in the program.

• Students who are required to take APD1215H, APD1216H, and APD1218H in addition to other courses in the PhD (which is the case for most students coming into the program from elsewhere) must achieve a minimum of A- in at least one of APD1215H Psychological Assessment of School-Aged Children and APD1216H Psychoeducational Assessment, and must complete APD1218H⁺Seminar and Practicum in School-Based Assessment, Consultation, and Intervention in order to remain in good standing and be permitted to continue in the program. Failure to meet these criteria will normally result in a recommendation to the School of Graduate Studies to terminate the student’s registration in the program.

• Students must register continuously and pay the full-time fee until all degree requirements have been fulfilled.

Program Length

5 years full-time

Time Limit

6 years full-time

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Not all courses are offered every year. Please review the course schedule on the Registrar’s Office and Student Experience website.

Individual Reading and Research Courses

⁺ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.