Following a rigorous, months-long review, the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology degree program at the Hawaii School of Professional Psychology at Chaminade University of Honolulu has received full accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA) for ten years.
APA accreditation signifies Chaminade’s PsyD program meets the highest standards in psychology education, preparing students to successfully and ethically deliver psychological services to the community.
“APA’s 10-year accreditation is an affirmation of the quality, rigor, and academic support that we provide our students through Chaminade’s PsyD program, giving them the tools and resources that they will need to serve the mental and behavioral health needs of our communities,” said Chaminade President Lynn Babington.
“Chaminade University is proud to offer the only APA-accredited PsyD program in the state, and is committed to partnering with our graduates as they expand access to evidence-based, culturally attuned psychological care. Like our community partners, we know that mental health is critical to overall health.”
Babington added that the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical need for quality psychological services in Hawaii, especially in rural and under-resourced populations. “The PsyD program is built on Chaminade’s Marianist tradition of public service, and is part of a suite of academic offerings in mental health at Chaminade geared toward helping communities thrive,” Babington said.
As part of APA accreditation, Chaminade’s PsyD program faculty members and administrators underwent an extensive self-study process, highlighting areas of excellence and opportunities for further growth and innovation. An accreditation team of professionals from across the US also conducted a thorough program review to ensure the University’s PsyD program meets rigorous standards.
There are currently less than 70 PsyD programs in the US with full APA accreditation.
Chaminade’s PsyD stresses experiential learning and cutting-edge, community-focused practical application. Students complete a five-year course of study in preparation for licensed clinical practice, with a curriculum that integrates hands-on application with theory and research. Students are also mentored to serve as practitioner-scholars and leaders who seek to drive positive change.
Before graduation, students also complete at least 1500 hours of clinical practicum and 2,000 hours of clinical internship held in a variety of settings, including community mental health centers, nonprofits, hospitals, and psychiatric facilities.
In addition to APA accreditation, the PsyD program is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional information on the program is available at chaminade.edu/psyd.
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Chaminade University of Honolulu provides a collaborative and innovative learning environment that prepares graduate and undergraduate students for life, service and successful careers. Established in 1955, the university is guided by its Catholic, Marianist and liberal arts educational traditions, which include a commitment to serving the Native Hawaiian population. Chaminade offers an inclusive setting where students, faculty and staff collectively pursue a more just and peaceful society.
