Application Information

We are aware that applying for an internship and traveling to multiple interviews can constitute a financial burden on many applicants. For this reason, all of our interviews are virtual interviews (Zoom, telephone). The Open House may be held virtually in January 2026. More details will be provided.

A complete application consists of the following:

1. Completed APPIC applications for the Psychology Internship form.
2. Cover letter expressing your interest in our site. In your cover letter, please make sure to let us know how many semesters of experience you have had with time-limited therapy.
3. Three letters of reference from professionals who have observed your counseling and academic performance. At least two of these letters should be from clinical supervisors. It is our preference that recommenders use the APPIC Form for Letters of Recommendation available on the AAPI website, but will accept traditional letters if that is not possible.
4. A current vita.
5. Transcripts of all graduate work.

Applicants should have successfully completed comprehensive exams toward their doctorate in counseling or clinical psychology including a minimum of 450 hours of intervention at the time of application. Please note that the training committee will take into consideration the impact of COVID-19 when reviewing clinical hours. Doctoral coursework should be projected to be completed at the end of the 2024 spring semester. Applicants should also have defended their dissertation proposal by the time of application.

Individuals offered contingent employment at the University of San Diego, will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment background check, which is a national background inquiry that includes a criminal felony and misdemeanor search, national sex offender registry database search, SanctionsBase Plus database search, social security number validation, and trace. Adverse information discovered in the background check will not automatically disqualify an individual from employment. Decisions concerning employment will be made on a case-by-case basis in conjunction with a review of the job description, requirements, and university policy.

All clinical members of the USD Wellness Area must secure and maintain immunizations as mandated by local medical authorities and recommended by the Center for Disease Control.

The University of San Diego is committed to seeking and sustaining a culturally and ethnically diverse campus environment and to the principles that promote inclusive practices. The Counseling Center fully supports the university's commitment and is dedicated to building a diverse staff with expertise and interest in serving students with diverse needs, backgrounds, ethnicities, abilities, and other distinct characteristics in respectful, sensitive, and understanding ways.