Program unity is achieved through core experiences required of all clinical students. Diversity is also encouraged and available through specialty training, electives, placements, and research activities. The general orientation of the Clinical Training Program may be describes as eclectic with an emphasis upon behavioral, cognitive and humanistic approaches. Alabama Ph.D. graduates function in a variety of settings as teachers, researchers, and providers of clinical services, holding positions of leadership and service in the Southeast and nationally. The program has developed three areas of concentration that build on faculty strengths and departmental resources.
Students are free to enroll in any elective or specialty course as long as prerequisites are met.
The student body of the clinical graduate program comprises a diverse set of students. Currently there are 44 clinical students on campus, and 8 clinical interns. Seven clinical Ph.D.'s were awarded in 2000. Though adhering to fairly rigorous admission standards, the department encourages diversity both in terms of background and in other demographic factors. Entering students include those fresh from undergraduate degrees, those with recently completed master's degrees, and several who have significant work experience.