How Does Walden’s Program Fit the Competencies?

Competency-based education uses the competencies to inform the logistics of a professional psychology program and the sequence of training that takes the student from a novice to a competent professional. When you evaluate your program of study, you should recognize the influence the competencies have on the program’s design. These competencies include, but are not limited to relationship, assessment, intervention, diversity, research/evaluation, management/supervision, and consultation/education (NCSPP, 2007). Professional psychology programs are evaluated using the Development Achievement Levels (DALs) specified by the National Council of Schools and Programs in Professional Psychology (NCSPP). The DALs of the NCSPP identify the skills, knowledge, and attitudes within each competency. In this Application you evaluate the Walden professional psychology program and curriculum, identifying the competencies using the DALs of the NCSPP.

To review the Walden professional psychology program and curriculum, visit the Walden PhD in Psychology Resources guide. Explore the links under Program and Curriculum Information to understand the structure and content of Walden’s PhD programs in professional psychology.

Reference: National Council of Schools and Programs in Professional Psychology. (2007). Competency Developmental Achievement Levels (DALs) of the National Council of Schools and Programs in Professional Psychology (NCSPP). Retrieved from http://www.ncspp.info/DALof%20NCSPP%209-21-07.pdf

The assignment: (3–4 pages)

• Provide an analysis of the Walden clinical psychology program of study and program outcomes in terms of the professional psychology competencies.
• Identify one strength and one weakness of the program.
• Then, discuss 2–3 changes you would make to the current program of study and why.
• Share insights you gained or conclusions you drew based on completing the assignment.