Yes, people with Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degrees, which are typically focused on clinical practice and applied psychology, can also have careers in research. While PsyD programs generally emphasize clinical training and hands-on experience, they still include coursework in research methods and statistics.
Here are a few ways in which individuals with PsyD degrees might pursue research-oriented careers:
Clinical Research: Some PsyD graduates may choose to engage in clinical research, where they investigate and evaluate the effectiveness of various therapeutic interventions, assessment tools, or treatment approaches. This type of research is directly relevant to their clinical practice and helps to inform evidence-based treatments.
Program Evaluation: Many PsyD professionals work in settings where they assess and evaluate mental health programs, interventions, or policies. This involves collecting and analyzing data to measure the effectiveness of these programs, which is a form of applied research.
Academic Research: While PsyD programs tend to be more practice-oriented compared to PhD programs in psychology, some individuals with PsyD degrees still pursue academic careers and conduct research in universities or research institutions. They may collaborate with colleagues on research projects or focus on research that supports their clinical interests.
Dissertation Research: As part of their PsyD program requirements, students often complete a doctoral dissertation. While not as research-intensive as a PhD dissertation, it still involves conducting original research, and some PsyD students may find this experience sparks their interest in pursuing further research opportunities.
Professional Development and Continuing Education: Psychologists with PsyD degrees might engage in research to keep up with the latest developments in their field, refine their clinical practices, and enhance their professional knowledge.
Publications and Presentations: Some PsyD professionals may publish articles in peer-reviewed journals or present their research findings at conferences. These activities contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field and can be a part of their career in research.
It's essential to note that while PsyD graduates can engage in research, they may not typically have as extensive research training as those with PhD degrees in psychology, which are more research-focused. However, the distinction between PsyD and PhD programs is not absolute, and there can be some variation among individual programs. Some PsyD programs offer more research opportunities and training than others, and some PhD programs emphasize more clinical experience. As a result, the career paths of individuals with PsyD degrees can vary widely, and some may be more research-oriented than others based on their specific experiences and interests.