Commission approves University of Texas Houston's Doctor of Psychology program for 2026

The Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) has taken a significant step towards enhancing mental health education in Texas by approving a new Doctor of Psychology program at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. This decision, made during the quarterly board meeting on April 24, 2025, will allow the program to begin in the fall of 2026.

The proposed Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology aims to address the growing need for mental health professionals in the state. The program will be offered in person and is expected to hire two additional faculty members to support its implementation. The board's approval reflects a commitment to expanding educational opportunities in health sciences and meeting the increasing demand for qualified psychologists.

During the meeting, board members expressed their support for the initiative, with a motion to approve the request passing unanimously. This new program is anticipated to not only enhance the educational landscape but also contribute to the overall well-being of communities by training more professionals in the field of psychology.

As Texas continues to prioritize mental health resources, the introduction of this program marks a crucial development in preparing future psychologists to serve the state's diverse population. The board's decision underscores the importance of investing in higher education to address pressing societal needs.