The University of Texas at Tyler celebrates its Silver Military Friendly School designation for 2025-26, ranking in the top 20% of participating schools nationwide. (Contributed Photo)

From Staff Reports

The University of Texas at Tyler has earned initial professional accreditation from the American Psychological Association for its clinical psychology doctoral degree program.

APA accreditation is the gold standard for psychology programs and signifies that the program meets or exceeds national training standards for psychologists. The accreditation was based on a minimal five-year review of student outcome and performance data, comprehensive self-study, site visit and final program review.

“We are delighted that our PhD in clinical psychology degree program has achieved this initial accreditation,” said Dr. Amir Mirmiran, UT Tyler provost and executive vice president for academic affairs.

“This accreditation indicates that our program provides highly trained graduates who are more than ready to meet the mental health needs and challenges of East Texas and beyond.”

Based on guidance from the American Psychological Association, the program’s three emphasis areas reflect the projected demand for mental health services in East Texas over the next 10 to 15 years –– rural mental health, veterans and active duty military, and care for those age 65 and older.

“APA accreditation elevates the program and makes our students who apply for jobs, licensure and internships more competitive. Many psychology jobs require APA accreditation,” said Dr. Dennis Combs, UT Tyler professor and director of clinical training.

UT Tyler will submit an updated self-study report within three years of receiving the contingent status. Upon successful completion of the updated self-study report, the doctoral program may be granted full accreditation, Combs added. The program, which began in 2019, includes four years on campus and an off-site doctoral internship year. For additional information, contact Combs at dcombs@uttyler.edu, or visit uttyler.edu/academics/programs/clinical-psychology-phd.php.

The American Psychological Association promotes psychology science and knowledge to benefit society and improve lives. For more information, visit apa.org/.

With a mission to improve educational and health care outcomes for East Texas and beyond, UT Tyler offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 10,000 students.

Through its alignment with UT Tyler Health Science Center and UT Health East Texas, UT Tyler has unified these entities to serve Texas with quality education, cutting-edge research and excellent patient care. Classified by Carnegie as a doctoral research institution and by U.S. News & World Report as a national university, UT Tyler has campuses in Tyler, Longview, Palestine and Houston.