MSU’s Clinical Psychology ranks among nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report

April 13, 2026 - Shelly DeJong

The Michigan State University’s Clinical Science doctoral program has earned a top 25 national ranking from U.S. News & World Report for 2026—tied for the #24 spot in the 2026 Best Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs report. 

The rankings are based on survey responses that were collected in fall 2025 and early 2026. U.S. News asked respondents to rate the academic quality of their peer programs, including 245 APA accredited doctoral programs in clinical psychology. 

“It is very exciting and rewarding to have our program ranked in the top 25 programs in the nation, as it recognizes the excellence of our training, faculty research, graduate students, and alumni” said Dr. Alytia Levendosky, psychology professor and director of clinical training at Michigan State University.  

MSU’s Clinical Science doctoral program has been accredited since March 2, 1948, by the American Psychological Association. Additionally, it is accredited by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System and has been a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science since 2014.  

The Clinical Science research area is deeply rooted in education and research and is dedicated to furthering the understanding of mental health and advancing prevention and treatment. 

“People are at the core of who we are as faculty, clinicians and as researchers. As faculty, we mentor and train the next generation so they can make a difference in people’s lives. As researchers, we ask questions and diligently work to find ways to further our understanding of mental health and treatment,” stated Levendosky. 

With respect and collaboration as its core, the program’s faculty are productive and highly cited scholars who are committed to addressing real-world challenges faced by individuals and communities.   

Graduate students within the Clinical Science doctoral program are actively involved in research labs, the training clinic, and course instruction. Their caliber is evidenced by their high level of research productively and their success on the internship and job market, which includes a 100% match rate to APA-accredited internships. Alumni have gone on to be leaders and innovators in the field of psychological clinical science. 

Learn more about the Department of Psychology’s Clinical Science research area here.