Program Description
The Trauma Services concentration, within the International Psychology Ph.D. program, teaches students the skills and understanding necessary to assist individuals and organizations in developing prevention and preparedness training, designing sustainable support services in the aftermath of traumatic events, and facilitating culturally sensitive programs to address mental health issues related to traumatic experience in a variety of contexts.
The first Ph.D. in international psychology in the world, the Chicago School's online-blended program allows students the flexibility to complete a doctoral degree without disrupting their current career. The program is unrivaled in its mission to empower students and faculty to become advocates for international psychology initiatives. Students develop advanced research and program evaluation skills crucial to the ability to make a difference in individual and group consequences of global events and are prepared to serve as consultants in a variety of international organizations and settings.Graduates are prepared to apply psychological principles in the development of policy, to assist individuals and organizations with understanding and collaborating with diverse cultural populations and all levels of international organizations and functional systems, and to design and evaluate the efficacy of international programs.
Students progress through the program in a "cohort" fashion (i.e., with the same group of fellow students in each of their classes for the duration of the program). Two nine-day international field experiences (one in year two and another in year three) provide students with valuable real-world experiences. Students also participate in two weekday residencies that focus on research and dissertation preparation.
Department
International Psychology
Concentrations
Licensure
Total Credits
60
Fieldwork Requirements
Two international field experiences with a focus on service learning, shadowing and cultural immersion experiences. In Year 2, a 9-14 day immersion and service-learning trip to an international TCSPP- approved site.In Year 3, a 3-8 week service-learning experience at an organization with an international focus or mission; may be tailored to a specific area of study.
Sample Courses
Self-Care Strategies in Humanitarian Efforts
Examines the self-care strategies and issues that inform the processes of maintaining one's psychological well-being while working in traumatic settings or on missions. Topics include a variety of self-care strategies, preparation strategies, aftermath strategies, and incorporating lessons learned for future missions.
Assessment of Psychosocial and Mental Health Reactions to Traumatic Stress
Focuses on the various methods used to conduct psychological mental health assessments. Topics include assessing physical and psychological stress, psychopathology, isolation, and physical and social functioning.
Mental Health Interventions
Examines the principle intervention strategies likely to be used in an international trauma setting. Topics include evidence-based systems, the effects of local context, coping strategies, and strategies for those with medically unexplained somatic pain.
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