3. Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.What’s the Difference?

To understand the difference between these degrees requires knowing something about the history of training in professional psychology

Boulder (Ph.D.) vs. Vail (Psy.D.) Model

Boulder Model (1943)

established Ph.D. as the terminal research degree, as in other sciences

reinforced the idea that the university setting was the context for training

established “scientist-practitioner” model of training

Vail Model (1973)

psychological knowledge has matured sufficiently that it warrants an expressly professional training program

Psy.D. established “Scholar/Professional” model

housed in different contexts

Psy.D. vs. Ph.D.

Three critical differences to emphasizePsy.D. degree is shorter Psy.D. dissertations can include integration

of existing knowledge rather than thegeneration of new knowledge

Psy.D. often provides less funding support

Psy.D. vs. Ph.D.

Three critical similarities to emphasizePsy.D. and Ph.D. are both license-

eligiblePsy.D. and Ph.D. can both be APA-

approvedPsy.D. is becoming increasing

common