How does a D.B.H. differ from a Ph.D. program?
The D.B.H. is a professional doctoral degree offered as an alternative to the more research-oriented Ph.D. It is sometimes described as a clinical or practice degree and is distinguished from the Ph.D. in terms of objectives and curriculum. It offers a wider range of topics than those allowed by a typical Ph.D. counselor education and supervision program. In addition, the D.B.H. is crafted around a professional doctoral model for those who wish to practice in a variety of health-care settings. It is comparable to professional clinical-practice doctorates in other health disciplines such as pharmacy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing and audiology.
Who is eligible to enroll?
The D.B.H. program is open to experienced and licensed master’s level practitioners including the following:
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Clinical mental health counselors
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Clinical social workers
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Marital and family therapists
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Psychiatric nurses
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School psychologists
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Alcohol and drug counselors
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Clinical pastoral therapists
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Physicians’ assistants
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Senior psychological examiners
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Rehabilitation counselors
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Nurse practitioners
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Art/music/play therapists
When can I enroll?
Classes are offered Fall, Spring and Summer.
Must I enroll as a full-time student?
No. The program is designed to accommodate either a part-time or a full-time student.
Can I maintain my employment status?
The FHU D.B.H. is ideal for the working clinician.
Where will I attend class?
Classes will be offered online via web conferencing as well as face-to-face in Henderson, Memphis or Dickson.
Is financial aid available?
With no out-of-state tuition and no hidden fees, Freed-Hardeman’s graduate tuition rates are comparable to those of public institutions. Financial aid is available through veterans’ benefits as well as low-interest loans such as the Stafford and Perkins loan programs. In addition to financial aid, you may pay your account by using Tuition Management Systems (TMS). For more information on this interest-free monthly payment plan, visit their website at www.afford.com/fhu.
What is the capstone project?
Students are expected to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of an area relevant to the professional practice of behavioral health as well as the ability to think critically, integrate and evaluate research and theory, work independently and clearly communicate these ideas. The project will be presented before the behavioral science faculty and the student’s peers for review and defense. The project is presented when all other requirements for the degree have been completed satisfactorily.