SUU Paves the Way: Utah’s First Doctoral Psychology Cohort Achieves Rare 100% Match Rate

The Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program at Southern Utah University is proud to announce that their inaugural cohort of students has achieved a 100% internship match rate. This is a highly competitive national process that serves as a final step for students to become licensed psychologists. As the only Psy.D. program in the state of Utah, this accomplishment is not only a success for the University, but for the community at large.

"I feel incredibly proud of our students and deeply grateful for the faculty and community partners who support them," said Director of Clinical Training, Dr. Danny Hatch. "Watching this cohort reach such an important milestone is both exciting and validating. It affirms the University's considerable investment, and highlights the meaningful impact the program is having - not only on our students, but on the communities they serve."

Dr. Hatch attributes this achievement to the dedication and skill of the students, in addition to the intentionality of the doctoral program. The culmination of their training and hard work allowed the students to represent themselves well, making them highly competitive candidates.

"Some programs, many more established than our own, do not achieve this incredible feat," said Dr. Diane W. Darling, assistant professor in the Psy.D. program. "In fact, only 76% of psychology doctorate students matched in this year's Phase One."

"They were highly engaged in their practicum experiences, sought out feedback, and showed a genuine commitment to serving diverse populations," said Dr. Hatch. "They also benefited from close faculty mentorship and a program structure that emphasizes hands-on training early on."

"Utah, like many states, has a growing need for qualified mental health professionals," said Dr. Hatch. "We are uniquely positioned to help address that need. Many of our graduates have strong ties to the region and are interested in returning to serve local communities. Once licensed, they will help expand access to psychological services, particularly in underserved and rural areas, and contribute to strengthening the behavioral health workforce across the state."

Being matched with a training site holds significance beyond the realm of academics.

"At this stage, students are making real-life decisions - uprooting families, leaving support systems, or spending a year apart from the people they love - all in service of this one large milestone," said Dr. Darling. "Watching our students clear this hurdle and move forward, on time and with momentum, is wonderful on both professional and personal levels."

As the first and only doctoral program offered at SUU, the Psy.D. program had to forge its own trail and lay the groundwork for continued development.

"We were cautiously optimistic about the success of the Psy.D. program, but the external feedback we've received has been even better than expected," said Psychology Department Chair, Garrett Strosser. "The development of the program was truly a collaborative effort, and we are so appreciative of the campus-wide support we have received."

To learn more about the Doctorate of Clinical Psychology program, how to apply, or the course curriculum, visit the SUU Doctorate of Clinical Psychology website. If you would like to schedule an appointment or a consultation with one of SUU's licensed psychologists or counselors, visit the CAPS website.

Contact Information

Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu