This examination (sometimes called the subject matter orals) is concerned with your ability to conceptualize research and theoretical issues germane to the field of clinical psychology. Guidelines for the didactic oral exam are provided in Appendix I, along with sample approval forms. Students generally complete this examination by the end of the third year.
The subject matter committee for the didactic oral exam is composed of three tenure-track faculty members, all of whom must hold primary or joint appointments in the Psychology Department (see footnote 1). More than three faculty members can constitute the examination committee if additional expertise is desired. The chair of this committee and at least one other member must hold primary tenure-track appointments in the Psychology Department.
Often the advisory committee serves as the didactic subject matter examination committee, but that is not required. The membership of the didactic subject matter examination committee must be approved by the Department Chair or the Department Associate Chair at least 3 months prior to the scheduled examination (see Appendix J for sample form). It is therefore quite important to consult with your advisor about the membership of this committee well in advance of the examination. |
