Single Doctoral-Level Psychology Courses
At CalSouthern, students may enroll in a course at the doctoral level without committing to a degree program. It’s a great option for students who want to:
- Get a feel for online learning at CalSouthern before pursuing a doctoral degree
- Earn credits that can be applied toward a doctorate at CalSouthern or another institution*
- Gain knowledge and expertise at the highest academic level in a topic of particular interest
Choose any of the doctoral courses from the CalSouthern’s School of Psychology. You’ll find a vast selection of subjects available, on topics as diverse as addiction, human sexuality, trauma, sports psychology, domestic violence and neuroscience.
Getting started is a quick and simple process. No entrance exams are required and you don’t have to provide official transcripts. A master’s degree is not required to take doctoral-level courses. (However, if you wish to commit to CalSouthern’s Doctor of Psychology program, a master’s degree is a prerequisite.) Courses start every month; you’ll never encounter a closed course or waiting list!
*Although credits from regionally accredited institutions like CalSouthern are readily accepted by other universities, acceptance is at the discretion of the receiving institution.
Doctoral Courses
PSY 87800 Comprehensive Examination
The Comprehensive Examination provides an opportunity to assess comprehensive academic competence in psychology. Preparing for and taking the examination encourages the integration of all facets of doctoral education completed during the first two years of the program. The examination is considered in evaluating Learners' readiness to take on the increased professional responsibilities of the practicum placements. Accordingly, a grade of "Satisfactory" is required to accept Practicum placements. The examination is offered prior to registration in Practicum. Learners are given three opportunities to pass the examination.
Learning Outcomes:- Distinguish between the major theories of psychotherapy
- Analyze the existing theories of psychopathology
- Identify ssessment skills for diagnostic interpretation
- Analyze legal and ethical issues related to psychopathology
- Examine ethical applications to cross cultural and diversity issues
- Examine training, supervision, and state licensing requirements
- Analyze local laws regulating the practice of psychology including issues of confidentiality
- Examine statutory and case law regarding duty to inform (Tarasoff), child and elder abuse reporting, danger to self and involuntary confinement.
- Demonstrate ethical behavior in regard to emerging relevant technologies applicable to psychology
- Integrate course concepts through the use of the the Taylor Study Method