Accredited Achievement

SPRING15accredited-achievement

Georgia Southern’s Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program has officially been accredited by the American Psychological Association, the national accrediting authority for professional education and training in psychology.

“This accreditation provides students with the assurance that their program is of the highest quality and has recognition that will open doors for internships and employment,” said Chair of Psychology Michael Nielsen.

The doctoral program originated from a longstanding need for licensed psychologists in rural, underserved areas of the South, and the United States. The five-year full-time program includes four years of classroom study and an additional year of internship. “Our approach is dynamic and integrative,” notes Nielsen. “It’s designed to prepare graduates for the practice of psychology, delivering much-needed psychotherapy, psychological assessment and psychological consultation services in their communities.”

Jean Bartels, Ph.D., provost and vice president for Academic Affairs said, “It’s further evidence that our faculty and staff are doing extraordinary work on behalf of our students and the community.”

The accreditation is also garnering increased interest among applicants seeking professional careers in the field. “Since the accreditation was announced in December, we’ve had a marked increase in applications for the program, and we’re seeing stronger applicant credentials.” said Nielsen . – Lynn Lilly