PhD in Child Clinical Psychology: Penn State University invites applications for its fully funded PhD program in Child Clinical Psychology, beginning in Fall 2026.
The program, housed within the Department of Psychology, is led by Dr. Cynthia Huang-Pollock, Dr. Katie Burkhouse, and Dr. Martha Wadsworth.
This doctoral program is designed to integrate research and clinical practice, preparing students to become competent scientists and practitioners dedicated to improving the lives of children, adolescents, and families.
Coursework and research experiences emphasize evidence-based assessment, prevention, and intervention, while students receive individualized training based on their research interests.
Scholarship Information (PhD in Child Clinical Psychology)
Program: Ph.D. in Child Clinical Psychology
Funding: Fully funded (tuition, stipend, health insurance, and research support)
Host Country: United States of America
Host University: Penn State University
Open to: U.S. and international students
Level of Study: Ph.D.
Field of Study: Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Family and Mental Health
Benefits (PhD in Child Clinical Psychology)
• Full tuition waiver
• Competitive annual stipend
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage
• Research and conference-travel allowances
• Mentorship from leading researchers in child and adolescent psychology
• Access to world-class research facilities and clinical training sites
Why Choose Penn State?
Full Funding Guarantee: All successful students receive full financial support, including tuition, stipend, health coverage, and research funding.
Research Excellence: Penn State is one of the largest and most respected research universities in the U.S., known for innovation and excellence in psychology.
Integrated Clinical and Research Training: Students receive extensive supervised clinical experience alongside advanced research opportunities.
Mentorship and Collaboration: Each student works closely with a core faculty mentor, Dr. Huang-Pollock, Dr. Burkhouse, or Dr. Wadsworth, on groundbreaking projects addressing mental health in youth.
Program Highlights
• Extensive Clinical Training: Students gain supervised experience qualifying them for clinical psychology licensure.
• Research-to-Practice Focus: The program emphasizes translating scientific research into practical clinical applications.
• Developmental Perspective: Coursework and research span infancy through young adulthood.
• Collaborative Learning: Cross-lab and interdisciplinary opportunities connect psychology with neuroscience, education, and health sciences.
Eligibility Requirements – PhD in Child Clinical Psychology
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Psychology or a related field
• Demonstrated academic excellence
• Research experience in developmental, clinical, or behavioral sciences
• Strong communication and analytical skills
• Prior experience in statistical analysis, programming, or psychophysiological data (preferred)
Application Requirements
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
• Academic transcripts
• Three (3) letters of recommendation
• Writing sample
• Proof of English proficiency (for international applicants)
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to contact potential faculty mentors directly:
• Dr. Cynthia Huang-Pollock (focus: attention problems and cognitive processes in children)
• Dr. Katie Burkhouse (focus: depression, anxiety, and preventive interventions in youth)
• Dr. Martha Wadsworth (focus: effects of chronic stress and resilience in children from low-income backgrounds)
For full details, visit the [Penn State Department of Psychology – Clinical (Adult and Child) Program page