Sorry to ask again, but what does Applied really mean?

[Merlin Coryell]

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In my searching around different programs I keep finding seemingly various definitions for what an Applied program is, and I am wondering if anyone can set me straight.

It seems that a degree in Applied Psychology, of whatever sub-field really just translates into a degree in that field. My specific case in point is with Portland State. They have 3 major programs, each in "Applied Psychology" basically equating to the following:
Developmental
I/O
Social/Community

Am I correct to assume this is basically the same as any other school's specific programs in each field, and I will be educated as such?


Also, really silly question here that just never came across my mind: In general do you have to have a clinical or counseling degree to gain licensure to practice, either with a hospital/agency or privately; or does any relevant PhD (say social or personality) qualify you to sit for exams?

 

[docma]

"Applied" traditionally means psychological science "applied in practice" vs with a focus on research/theory and is probably most similar to the "bench vs. bedside" dichotomy in medical science.

In most states you can have a doctorate from a range of "kinds" of program by title but they need to meet certain designated content areas. Typically counseling and clinical programs are interchangeable re licensure. The culture of some jobs and internships may favor one of the "c"s over another, usually based on any biases of those hiring. You can have counseling psych degree but be hired into a clinical psychologist position by job title,just to confuse things further. Ed psych and school psych may have more varying rules across states

 

[KillerDiller]

I'm not really sure what is meant by "applied developmental" and "applied social/community" programs because I'm used to seeing these as research degrees. Holders with these degrees wouldn't be able to perform any sort of therapeutic interventions that I'm aware of because they wouldn't be eligible for the same license as those from clinical/counseling programs, for example. My best guess would be that you could work in a consulting role with schools or other community organizations. Not sure how much demand there is for that.