NASHUA – The Doctor of Psychology in Counseling and School Psychology program at Rivier University recently received full accreditation status from the American Psychological Association through 2033. Full accreditation is the highest distinction offered by the APA, an organization that grants national accreditation for programs in health service psychology.

The Psy.D. program prepares graduates to obtain licensure as professional psychologists. Rivier is one of only two institutions in New Hampshire to receive APA accreditation for doctoral training programs in psychology.

“Applicants across the nation seek programs distinguished by APA accreditation,” said Rivier President Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM. “This national credential ensures students that their education will meet the highest standards of their profession and will position them for achievement in their field.”

Graduates of the Psy.D. program are uniquely qualified for a wide range of professional opportunities based on the combined counseling and school psychology curriculum. With full accreditation status, earning a doctorate from Rivier’s program will provide even greater career mobility in a competitive marketplace. Many organizations in health service psychology now require candidates to have a doctoral degree from an APA-accredited program.

“There is a critical shortage of highly trained behavioral health professionals in this region and beyond,” said Dr. Brian Ernsting, vice president for Academic Affairs. “Rivier’s program helps build the community of professional psychologists working to support the mental health and wellness of individuals and communities.”

The doctorate builds on Rivier’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling approved by the Board of Mental Health Practice, and the Master of Education in School Counseling and Educational Specialist in School Psychology approved by the New Hampshire Department of Education.

To learn more about Rivier’s Psy.D. program and other graduate and doctoral programs in business, computer science, counseling, education, nursing, and more, contact the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies Admissions or call 603-897-8507.