Nova Southeastern University PsyD Program Review 2025: Complete Guide
Table of Contents
- About the Program
- Academic Curriculum and Training
- Faculty Expertise and Research
- Clinical Training Experience
- Biggest Pros
- Biggest Cons
- Admissions Strategy
- Financial Aid and Costs
- Career Outcomes
- How Nova Compares
- The Bottom Line
- Frequently Asked Questions
Nova Southeastern University stands as a premier institution offering one of the most established APA-accredited PsyD programs in the United States. With nearly four decades of excellence in clinical psychology education, Nova’s PsyD program has consistently produced highly qualified practitioners who excel in professional licensure and clinical practice.
This comprehensive review examines every aspect of Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program to help prospective students make informed decisions about their doctoral education. From curriculum structure and clinical training opportunities to career outcomes and financial considerations, we’ll explore what makes this program a top choice for aspiring clinical psychologists.
About the Program
The Nova Southeastern University PsyD program represents a significant investment in professional psychology education, combining rigorous academic training with extensive clinical experience. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the program’s essential details:
| Program Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Private, not-for-profit research university |
| Main Campus | Fort Lauderdale, Florida (Davie campus) |
| APA Accreditation | Continuously accredited since 1983 |
| Program Inception | 1983 (42 years of operation) |
| Annual Tuition (2024-25) | $46,890 (estimated) |
| Institution Fees | $4,200 annually |
| Total Credit Hours | 119 credits plus internship requirements |
| Median Completion Time | 5 years |
| Internship Match Rate | 95% (2023-24 data) |
| Licensure Pass Rate | 88% (2019-2024 graduates) |
Degrees and Specializations Available
- PsyD in Clinical Psychology: Primary doctoral program with multiple concentration options
- PsyD in School Psychology: Specialized track for educational settings
- PhD in Clinical Psychology: Research-focused alternative program
Application Requirements and Process
- Application Method: Online through PSYCAS (Psychology Centralized Application Service)
- Application Fee: $75 (increased from previous years)
- GRE Requirement: Required for most applicants (exceptions for doctoral degree holders)
- Letters of Recommendation: Three professional or academic references required
- Personal Statement: Statement of professional goals and research interests
- Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree with psychology coursework requirements
Academic Curriculum and Training Experience
Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program follows a practitioner-scholar model that emphasizes clinical competency development alongside scholarly engagement. The curriculum is designed to meet APA accreditation standards while providing students with comprehensive training in evidence-based practice.
Core Curriculum Structure
The program’s 119-credit curriculum spans five years and includes foundational coursework, specialty training, and extensive clinical experience. Students progress through a carefully sequenced series of courses that systematically build clinical competencies.
Year 1-2 Foundation Courses:
- Biological Bases of Behavior
- Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior
- Social Bases of Behavior
- Individual Differences and Psychopathology
- Research Methods and Statistics
- Professional Ethics and Standards
Year 3-4 Advanced Clinical Training:
- Advanced Psychopathology and Diagnosis
- Evidence-Based Treatment Interventions
- Psychological Assessment and Testing
- Multicultural Psychology and Diversity
- Supervision and Consultation
- Specialized Concentration Coursework
Year 5 Internship and Dissertation:
- Full-time APA-accredited internship (2,000 hours)
- Doctoral dissertation completion
- Comprehensive examination preparation
Faculty Expertise and Research Opportunities
The Nova Southeastern University PsyD program faculty consists of accomplished practitioners and researchers who bring extensive clinical and academic experience to their teaching. Faculty members maintain active research programs and provide mentorship opportunities for doctoral students.
Faculty Specializations Include:
- Clinical Neuropsychology and Brain-Behavior Relationships
- Trauma and PTSD Treatment
- Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Forensic Psychology and Legal Issues
- Health Psychology and Medical Settings
- Multicultural Psychology and Social Justice
Research Opportunities
Students can engage in faculty-led research projects, develop independent research initiatives, and participate in collaborative studies with community partners. Research areas align with faculty expertise and often address real-world clinical challenges facing the psychology profession.
Clinical Training Experience
Clinical training represents a cornerstone of the Nova Southeastern University PsyD program, providing students with extensive hands-on experience in diverse treatment settings. The program requires approximately 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience before internship placement.
On-Campus Training Facilities
Psychology Services Center: Nova’s flagship training clinic serves the South Florida community while providing students with comprehensive clinical training. The center offers services across the lifespan and specializes in:
- Comprehensive psychological assessment and evaluation
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Neuropsychological testing and consultation
- Specialized programs for trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders
- Community outreach and prevention programs
External Training Sites
Students complete practicum placements at approved external sites throughout South Florida, including:
- Hospital and medical center psychology departments
- Community mental health centers
- Private practice settings
- Specialized treatment programs
- Veterans Affairs medical centers
Biggest Pros
Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program offers several distinctive advantages that make it an attractive choice for prospective clinical psychologists. These strengths have been consistently recognized by students, graduates, and professional organizations.
Diverse Concentration Areas
The program offers one of the most comprehensive sets of concentration options available in doctoral psychology training:
| Concentration | Focus Areas | Career Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Forensic Psychology | Criminal justice, legal consultation, competency evaluation | Court systems, correctional facilities, legal consulting |
| Health Psychology | Medical psychology, chronic illness, behavioral health | Hospitals, medical centers, integrated healthcare |
| Neuropsychology | Brain-behavior relationships, assessment, rehabilitation | Medical settings, rehabilitation centers, research |
| Psychodynamic | Depth psychology, psychoanalytic theory and practice | Private practice, psychoanalytic institutes |
| Long-term Mental Illness | Severe and persistent mental illness, community treatment | Community mental health, case management |
Population-Specific Training Tracks
Beyond concentration areas, students can pursue specialized training in specific populations:
- Children and Families: Developmental psychology, family therapy, pediatric settings
- Trauma Specialization: PTSD treatment, crisis intervention, emergency psychology
- Multicultural Psychology: Cross-cultural competency, social justice, diverse populations
- Geropsychology: Aging and older adult mental health
Comprehensive Clinical Training Center
The Psychology Services Center provides exceptional training opportunities while serving the broader community:
- Diverse Client Population: Serves clients across all age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds
- Specialized Programs: Evidence-based treatments for specific conditions including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and trauma
- Assessment Services: Comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations
- Community Integration: Strong partnerships with local healthcare systems and social services
Established Program Reputation
With over 40 years of continuous operation and APA accreditation, Nova’s program has established strong relationships with internship sites and employers throughout the region and nationally. This reputation translates to excellent internship match rates and career placement opportunities for graduates.
Biggest Cons
While Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program offers many advantages, prospective students should carefully consider potential drawbacks that may impact their educational experience and career goals.
Limited Flexibility for Working Professionals
The program maintains a traditional, full-time structure that presents challenges for students seeking flexibility:
- No Online Components: All coursework requires in-person attendance at the Fort Lauderdale campus
- Daytime Schedule: Most classes occur during traditional business hours
- Full-Time Commitment: The program structure makes it difficult to maintain significant employment
- Limited Evening Options: Few courses offered during evening hours for working students
Substantial Financial Investment
The cost of the Nova PsyD program represents a significant financial commitment:
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | 5-Year Total |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $46,890 | $234,450 |
| Fees | $4,200 | $21,000 |
| Living Expenses (estimated) | $18,000 | $90,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $69,090 | $345,450 |
Geographic Limitations
The program’s location in South Florida may present challenges for some prospective students:
- Relocation Requirements: Students from other regions must relocate to the Fort Lauderdale area
- Cost of Living: South Florida has above-average living costs compared to many regions
- Limited Regional Diversity: Clinical training primarily focused on South Florida populations
Research Opportunities
As a practitioner-focused program, research opportunities may be more limited compared to PhD programs:
- Fewer Research Assistantships: Limited paid research positions available
- Publication Expectations: Less emphasis on scholarly publication during training
- Academic Career Preparation: Program primarily prepares practitioners rather than researchers
Admissions Strategy and Timeline
Successfully gaining admission to Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program requires careful planning and strategic preparation. The program maintains competitive admission standards with typically 8-12% acceptance rates.
Optimal Application Timeline
- 18 months before: Begin GRE preparation and complete prerequisite coursework
- 12 months before: Research faculty interests and begin personal statement drafts
- 9 months before: Request letters of recommendation from academic and professional references
- 6 months before: Complete PSYCAS application and submit all required materials
- 3 months before: Prepare for interviews and finalize application components
Competitive Application Profile
Successful applicants typically demonstrate:
- Academic Excellence: GPA of 3.5 or higher in psychology coursework
- Standardized Test Performance: GRE scores in the 50th percentile or above
- Clinical Experience: Substantial volunteer or work experience in mental health settings
- Research Involvement: Participation in research projects, presentations, or publications
- Professional References: Strong letters from faculty and clinical supervisors
Financial Aid and Funding Opportunities
Nova Southeastern University offers various financial assistance options to help students manage the significant costs associated with doctoral education. Understanding available resources is crucial for financial planning.
University-Based Financial Aid
- Merit Scholarships: Partial tuition assistance based on academic achievement
- Research Assistantships: Limited positions with tuition reduction and stipend
- Teaching Assistantships: Opportunities to assist with undergraduate courses
- Work-Study Programs: Part-time employment opportunities on campus
External Funding Sources
- Federal Financial Aid: Graduate PLUS loans and Stafford loans
- Professional Organization Scholarships: Awards from APA and state psychology associations
- Private Scholarships: Third-party scholarships for psychology students
- Employer Sponsorship: Tuition assistance from current employers
May 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics salary for Psychologists and Psychologists, all other. National labor market information and state labor market information also sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor. Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed December 2025.
Career Outcomes and Professional Success
Graduates of Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program demonstrate strong career outcomes across various professional settings. The program’s emphasis on practical training and professional competencies prepares students for immediate career success.
Employment Settings and Opportunities
| Practice Setting | Percentage of Graduates | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Private Practice | 35% | $95,000 – $150,000 |
| Hospital/Medical Center | 25% | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| Community Mental Health | 20% | $70,000 – $90,000 |
| Educational Institutions | 12% | $75,000 – $100,000 |
| Government/Military | 8% | $80,000 – $110,000 |
Professional Licensure and Credentialing
Nova graduates demonstrate excellent performance on professional licensing examinations:
- EPPP Pass Rate: 92% first-time pass rate on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology
- State Licensure: 88% of graduates achieve professional licensure within two years
- Specialty Certifications: Many graduates pursue additional certifications in neuropsychology, forensic psychology, and health psychology
For more information about psychology career opportunities and salary expectations, explore comprehensive career guidance resources.
How Nova Compares to Other Florida Programs
Florida offers several high-quality PsyD programs, each with unique strengths and characteristics. Understanding how Nova compares helps prospective students make informed decisions.
| Program Feature | Nova Southeastern | Florida Tech | Carlos Albizu |
|---|---|---|---|
| APA Accreditation | Yes (Since 1983) | Yes (Since 1989) | Yes (Since 1994) |
| Annual Tuition | $46,890 | $42,750 | $28,800 |
| Internship Match Rate | 95% | 89% | 82% |
| Concentration Options | 5 concentrations | 3 concentrations | 2 concentrations |
| Clinical Training Center | On-campus full-service center | Limited on-campus services | Community partnerships |
For a comprehensive comparison of all Florida PsyD programs, including admission requirements and outcomes data, visit our detailed state guide.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right PsyD program requires careful consideration of your personal goals, financial situation, and career aspirations. Use this comprehensive assessment tool to determine if Nova Southeastern University’s program aligns with your needs:
| Program Fit Assessment | Excellent Match | Poor Match |
|---|---|---|
| I need flexible scheduling or online options | ✗ | |
| Clinical psychology is my primary interest | ✓ | |
| I want specialized concentration training | ✓ | |
| I prefer practitioner-focused training | ✓ | |
| I’m interested in school psychology | ✓ | |
| Research is my primary career goal | ✗ | |
| I have a very limited budget | ✗ | |
| Program reputation is important to me | ✓ | |
| I want extensive clinical training | ✓ | |
| I prefer smaller class sizes | ✓ | |
| I don’t want to take the GRE | ✗ |
* Students with doctoral degrees (JD, MD, PhD) may be exempt from GRE requirements
Conclusion
Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program represents a comprehensive educational investment that prepares students for successful careers in professional psychology. With its strong history of APA accreditation, diverse concentration options, and excellent clinical training facilities, the program consistently produces competent practitioners who excel in licensure and professional practice.
The program is particularly well-suited for students seeking specialized training in clinical psychology with opportunities for population-specific focus areas. The extensive clinical training provided through the Psychology Services Center and community partnerships offers invaluable hands-on experience that directly translates to professional competency.
However, prospective students must carefully consider the substantial financial investment and full-time commitment required. The program’s traditional structure and high costs may not be suitable for all applicants, particularly those seeking flexibility or operating with limited financial resources.
For students who can commit to the full program requirements and have the financial means to complete their education, Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program offers an excellent pathway to professional psychology licensure and career success.
This program continues to be recognized as one of the top APA-accredited PsyD programs for its comprehensive training model and strong graduate outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How competitive is admission to Nova’s PsyD program?
Nova Southeastern University’s PsyD program is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 8-12%. Successful applicants typically have a GPA above 3.5, competitive GRE scores, and significant experience in clinical or research settings.
Are there online or part-time options available?
Currently, Nova’s PsyD program requires full-time, in-person attendance. All coursework must be completed on the Fort Lauderdale campus, and the program structure is designed for full-time students.
What is the total cost of the program?
The estimated total cost for the five-year program is approximately $345,000, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Financial aid options are available but limited.
How does Nova’s internship match rate compare to other programs?
Nova maintains an excellent internship match rate of 95%, surpassing the national average for PsyD programs. The program’s established reputation helps students secure competitive internship placements.
What concentrations are available within the clinical psychology program?
Nova offers five concentration areas: Forensic Psychology, Health Psychology, Neuropsychology, Psychodynamic Psychology, and a specialization in Long-term Mental Illness.
Do graduates typically pass the licensing examination?
Yes, Nova graduates consistently demonstrate strong performance on the EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology), with a 92% first-time pass rate. Additionally, 88% achieve professional licensure within two years of graduation.
Additional Resources
- Clinical PsyD Program Overview
- 2024-2025 PsyD Student Handbook
- Psychology Services Center
- Financial Aid and Scholarships
- How to Get a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
- Accelerated PsyD Programs
