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Clinical Psychology PhD students generally receive funded support
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The Clinical Psychology PhD/JD Combined Program at Northwestern University provides an exceptional interdisciplinary pathway for students seeking expertise in both psychological science and legal scholarship. The program combines the scientist-practitioner training model of Northwestern's highly regarded Clinical Psychology PhD Program with the rigorous legal education offered by Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. Students receive extensive training in clinical assessment, psychotherapy, psychopathology, research methodology, ethics, and psychological science while simultaneously developing a sophisticated understanding of legal systems, jurisprudence, public policy, and regulatory frameworks. The dual-degree structure is particularly valuable for students interested in forensic psychology, mental health law, criminal justice reform, healthcare policy, behavioural law and economics, legal decision-making, and academic research. Students complete all requirements of both degrees, including clinical practica, research milestones, dissertation research, and law coursework. The interdisciplinary environment encourages collaboration across medicine, psychology, law, and public policy. Graduates are well prepared for careers in academia, legal scholarship, forensic practice, governmental agencies, policy research organisations, healthcare systems, and leadership positions at the intersection of mental health and law. The integrated structure allows completion of both degrees more efficiently than pursuing them separately.
Complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Develop a strong background in psychological research and academic scholarship.
Identify Clinical Psychology faculty mentors whose research interests align with your goals.
Prepare application materials, including transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.
Apply to the Clinical Psychology PhD Program through The Graduate School.
Apply separately to Northwestern Pritzker School of Law.
Meet admission requirements for both programs.
Participate in interviews if invited.
Receive admission decisions from both academic units.
Upon acceptance, enroll in the integrated JD/PhD pathway and complete all doctoral, clinical, dissertation, and law degree requirements.
Chicago, USA
Private College
Est. 1859
