KCU holds pinning and hooding ceremonies for PsyD students

Kansas City University (KCU) celebrated students in doctorate of clinical psychology (PsyD) program with a pinning and hooding ceremony September 28, 2023.

Twenty-five first-year students were recognized with the traditional pinning to acknowledge their advancement into a doctoral-level program focused on training professionals who will make a difference in the clinical practice of psychology.

Fourteen third-year students received hoods to mark the milestone of achieving master’s-level knowledge, as well as proficiency and a readiness to put that training to work in a clinical setting. The master’s degree signifies that students have successfully completed two years of course work in the PsyD program, successfully passed the qualifying exam and are now officially doctoral candidates. These students are now eligible for their clinical rotations, will help meet the growing demand for mental and behavioral health care and are well on their way toward earning doctoral degrees in clinical psychology.

“Over the past two years, the PsyD faculty have invested heavily in these students. We have invested in them as students, as trainees, and as advisees. And as a result, I have had the pleasure of watching these students transform and help move KCU closer to achieving its mission,” remarked Sarah Getch, PhD program director and associate professor of Health Service Psychology

Demand for mental and behavioral health providers is expected to grow by 22 percent by the year 2031—much faster than the average for all other occupations. Seven years ago, KCU answered the call with the development of a doctoral program in clinical psychology — becoming the only PsyD program in Missouri or Kansas. In May of 2022, the University graduated its first class of clinical psychologists.

“In today’s world, the importance of behavioral health care cannot be overstated. It is projected that mental health and substance use disorders will continue to surpass all physical diseases as a major cause of disability,” said Hahn. “We are especially proud to have each of you continue this commitment to increase access to behavioral health care and to advance KCU’s mission of improving the well-being of the communities we serve.”