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• Best Online Doctorates In Psychology

Best Online Doctorates In Psychology Of 2024

Updated: Mar 28, 2024, 12:13pm

Psychologists don’t just work one-on-one with patients to treat behavioral and mental health issues. Today, psychologists advise corporations, study cognitive science and the brain, coach athletes to peak performance and help students thrive in school.

In addition to clinical counseling, an online doctorate in psychology can lead to well-paying work in diverse fields like education, business, social services, nonprofit management and community organizing.

To help with your search, Forbes Advisor reviewed 43 programs and ranked eight schools that met our criteria. Each school demonstrates a commitment to student experience, outcomes, credibility and affordability. Programs include Ph.D.s, Psy.D.s and Ed.D.s, with specializations like leadership, community or educational psychology. Explore our recommendations below.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked eight accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online doctoral degrees in psychology in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We listed all eight schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Doctorates in Psychology

Should you enroll in an online psychology doctoral program, accreditation for online doctoral programs in psychology, how to find the right online doctorate in psychology for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in psychology, national louis university, liberty university, keiser university-ft lauderdale, university of the southwest, the chicago school at los angeles, southern california seminary, william james college, adler university.

Graduate Tuition

$800/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

This Chicago-based college was founded in 1886 with a mission to train elementary school teachers. Today, National Louis University (NLU) offers a fully online Ph.D. in community psychology to prepare professionals for work in areas including housing, urban education, child abuse and substance abuse.

NLU teaches the foundations of community psychology and encourages learners to research topics that pique their interest. Coursework provides training in quantitative and qualitative methods, grant writing, advocacy, and community development. Online learners complete an internship and dissertation in addition to coursework. NLU offers both synchronous and asynchronous formats.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 69 to 72 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Community organizing, statistics for community psychology
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, internship required

$595/credit (full-time)

Liberty University ’s Ph.D. in psychology teaches human behavior from a biblical perspective. This nonclinical, nonlicensure program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Liberty offers six specializations, including social psychology and developmental psychology. Learners conduct their own research, with the opportunity to present their work at conferences. Optional on-campus intensive courses allow students to deepen their academic and professional skills alongside faculty and classmates.

Current and former military members and their spouses qualify for discounted tuition at $300 per credit.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Psychological research and biblical worldview, teaching of psychology
• Concentrations Available: Behavioral health leadership, developmental psychology, general psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, social psychology, theology
• In-Person Requirements: No, but optional in-person intensives offered

$528/credit (in-state)

The Fort Lauderdale branch of Keiser University , Florida’s largest private, nonprofit university, offers a research-based online Ph.D. in psychology. The program employs a “scholar-practitioner” model that integrates leading research and professional practices into the classroom experience.

The school offers hybrid and fully online programming. Online learners have access to technical support and academic counseling. With courses held in eight-week terms, students can complete the program in as little as 36 months.

Keiser also offers a baccalaureate entry path; admitted students only need a bachelor’s degree before starting their Ph.D.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Behavioral neuroscience, sociocultural basis of behavior
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, two residencies required

$799/credit (in-state)

The University of the Southwest (USW) offers a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in educational psychology. The degree suits professionals who work or hope to work in educational leadership and administration. USW’s curriculum focuses on four key areas: leadership foundations, organizational dynamics and change, strategic planning, and research. With an optional self-design track, learners can customize their specialization courses.

Online learners receive free virtual healthcare and a free laptop in their first course. The tuition price includes the cost of all textbooks and course materials. Students can also access leading software designed to guide them through the dissertation process.

Two clinical residencies provide real-world experience. They can be completed in person or virtually.

• Application Fee: N/A
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Organizational dynamics of human behavior, advanced study of educational psychology
• In-Person Requirements: No, but optional in-person residencies offered

$1,703/credit

The Chicago School at Los Angeles ’ Ph.D. in international psychology prepares learners to work in organizations with global missions. In addition to classwork, the program features an international internship and real-world training opportunities. Students complete two on-campus residencies and two international field experiences.

Learners must pass written and oral comprehensive exams and complete an original dissertation addressing a gap in international psychology’s professional study. The nonlicensure program can be completed in three and a half years.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Foundations of international psychology; ethics and professional development
• Concentrations Available: Organizations and systems, trauma services
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, residencies and international trip required

$650/credit (in-state)

Southern California Seminary ’s nonlicensure Psy.D. program uniquely integrates theology and psychology to prepare learners for private counseling, local church ministry, or work in a service or institutional setting. The El Cajon-based school also offers an M.A. to Psy.D. track, which requires a minimum of 99 credits.

Students can choose between four emphases: psychology, educational psychology, international/multicultural psychology and industrial/organizational psychology. Classes begin every seven weeks.

In addition to academic requirements, learners must demonstrate moral integrity and be recommended for graduation by at least four faculty members.

• Application Fee: $85
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 to 73 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Advanced psychosocial basis of behavior, hermeneutics
• Concentrations Available: Psychology, educational psychology, international/multicultural psychology, industrial/organizational psychology
• In-Person Requirements: No

$1,675/credit (in-state)

William James College ’s Psy.D in leadership psychology integrates hands-on experience with classroom learning to deeply explore how humans function as leaders and followers. Full-time students can complete the program in four years, while part-time students may take six years.

Students can concentrate in four psychology subject areas or participate in a co-curricular college-wide concentration such as Asian or Latino mental health.

The blended program features a mix of online synchronous activities, like webinars and team projects, as well as asynchronous discussion boards, readings, and pre-recorded lectures. Program graduates complete 900 hours of supervised field training: a 600-hour practicum and 300-hour internship. Practicum sites include Comcast and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. The college is based in Boston, Massachusetts.

• Application Fee: $60
• Degree Credit Requirements: 68 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: The neurobiology of leadership, organization development and change
• Concentrations Available: Educational leadership, inclusive leadership, leading nonprofits and NGOs, neuroscience of leadership psychology
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for required residencies

$972/credit (in-state)

The online Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology by Chicago-based Adler University helps graduates reach their full potential in organizational settings. Elective courses teach skills like consulting, talent management and entrepreneurship.

Learners without a master’s degree can enroll in a 90-credit post-bachelor’s program; those with a master’s degree in a related field can finish in as little as three years. To graduate, learners must pass a comprehensive exam and complete a dissertation in addition to a 200-hour social justice practicum at an aligned community site.

• Application Fee: $32
• Degree Credit Requirements: 90 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Organizational theory; job and task analysis
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, practicum required

While an online psychology doctoral degree has its upsides, it isn’t the right move for everyone. In light of the huge commitment of time and money—to say nothing of effort—think hard about factors like budget, scheduling and learning style.

Online doctoral programs often cost less than campus programs since they allow you to save on big-ticket expenses like housing and transportation. Plus, some state schools extend in-state tuition rates to all online learners, regardless of their state residency status.

Online learning provides flexibility to work around work and family obligations. However, some programs mix asynchronous lessons with synchronous events like discussion groups.

Remote learning works well for disciplined self-starters. But if you need the accountability and support that come with in-person learning, an online doctoral program might not be a good fit for you.

There are two kinds of accreditation to consider in online psychology doctoral programs: institutional and programmatic.

Institutional accreditation is given by bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). To receive federal financial aid, you must attend an accredited institution. Several institutions on this list have earned accreditation by regional agencies like SACSCOC or the Higher Learning Commission.

Programmatic accreditation proves that a degree has been vetted to meet certain academic standards. The primary accreditor for post-graduate psychology programs in the U.S. is the American Psychology Association (APA), which accredits Ph.D. and Pys.D. programs. APA accredits specific degrees, not departments. You can find programs using APA’s accredited programs search tool . WHAT

To confirm a college’s accreditation status, search CHEA’s directory .

Consider Your Future Goals

To choose the best program for you, think through your long-term career goals. This helps inform whether you should pursue a Psy.D. or Ph.D. and what kind of field experience you may need to complete.

Programs vary in their focus on clinical application of psychological principles versus research and classroom instruction. For example, William James College’s Pys.D. in leadership psychology allows learners to work an additional 150 practicum hours beyond the program requirement. The extra hands-on experience could help you prepare for more specialized psychology careers .

A degree from an APA-accredited program is required for some employment opportunities and, in some states, licensure. If you intend to become a licensed psychologist after graduation, make sure your program prepares you for this path.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

The programs on this list vary greatly in terms of cost. On the high end, the Chicago School at Los Angeles charges $1,703 per credit. At $528 per credit, Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale offers the cheapest option. Both programs require 60 credits, putting our range between about $31,000 and $102,000.

Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to learn about financial aid opportunities. Other financing options to explore include assistantships, scholarships, grants and loans.

How long does it take to get a doctorate in psychology?

A psychology doctorate typically takes four to six years, but some programs can be completed in less time. In addition to coursework, programs generally require clinical or practicum hours and a dissertation.

Is it worth it to get a doctorate in psychology?

A doctorate in psychology is not easy to obtain, but it can help you land an in-demand job that tends to pay well. However, many people pursue this degree out of personal interest rather than a desire for financial gain.

Is a Psy.D. higher than a Ph.D.?

Both degrees concern the same subject matter, but a Psy.D. focuses on clinical practice, while a Ph.D. has more to do with scientific research. Ph.D., or Doctor of Philosophy , programs are more common and contain more sub-fields. A Psy.D., or Doctor of Psychology, focuses on preparing students to serve clients and patients.

Is a psychology doctorate hard?

Doctorate programs are generally difficult and take a long time to complete. The vast field of psychology features training in both the natural and social sciences. In addition to years of coursework, most psychology doctorate programs require supervised practicum hours and an original dissertation.

Garrett Andrews is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Political Science at Portland Community College where he teaches State and Local Government.

Top Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs of 2024

Written by Alex Kale

Updated: June 26, 2024

Compare School Options

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

For aspiring psychologists pursuing a flexible yet top-tier education, the journey to a doctorate in psychology offers endless possibilities. The path to your doctoral degree is promising and multifaceted in a field as diverse as psychology, with many sought-after specializations and salaries regularly reaching six figures .

This article presents a curated list of the top online doctorate in psychology programs, providing a comprehensive guide to the leading institutions nationwide. We understand that choosing the right program is pivotal to your career aspirations, and our list simplifies this process by ensuring that your decision aligns with your professional goals and personal needs.

Beyond our program rankings, we delve into the degree options available, explore potential specializations, offer an updated career outlook for psychology graduates, and provide valuable tips to assist you in selecting your ideal program. Moreover, our FAQ section addresses common queries, making this article your all-encompassing resource on your journey to a rewarding and impactful career in psychology.

What Can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program?

A doctorate in psychology is an advanced academic degree involving rigorous research and clinical training to prepare students for careers as licensed psychologists. Programs typically require 90 to 120 credits, including core statistics, research methods, and ethics courses. However, it’s not a medical degree, and it’s important to remember that psychologists cannot prescribe medication. Instead, they focus on assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional issues through therapy and counseling.

Potential doctoral degree options in psychology

Most online institutions offer Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. Although they share a common interest, these degrees are slightly different.

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.): These programs emphasize clinical training and practical skills for becoming a licensed psychologist, often preparing students for careers in therapy, counseling, and clinical practice. Candidates often complete a doctoral project, which focuses on applying existing knowledge to address a specific clinical issue. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.): These programs are research-oriented, with a stronger emphasis on scientific inquiry, experimentation, and the production of original research. Candidates typically must complete a dissertation, a substantial original research project contributing to the field’s knowledge. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, or specialized areas of psychology.

Choosing between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. depends on your career goals. Psy.D. is best for those seeking to become clinical psychologists, while Ph.D. offers a broader range of career options in research and academia.

Specialization options for psychology doctoral students

Doctoral students in psychology can choose from various specializations to focus their training and research on specific areas of interest. Some common specializations include:

Clinical Psychology: Focuses on assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders. Clinical psychologists often work in therapy, counseling, and clinical settings. Neuropsychology: Explores the relationship between the brain and behavior, often working with individuals with neurological disorders or brain injuries. Forensic Psychology: Involves applying psychological principles to legal issues, such as criminal profiling, witness assessment, and evaluating competency to stand trial. Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychology: Applies psychological principles to the workplace, addressing employee motivation, productivity, and organizational development. Developmental Psychology: Examines human growth and development across the lifespan, from infancy to old age, often in areas like child development, aging, or adolescence.

Other specialization options include health psychology, social psychology, sports psychology, and school or educational psychology.

Psychology licensure requirements in the United States

In the United States, aspiring psychologists must meet stringent licensure requirements. Completing a doctoral program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) is essential, ensuring a high-quality education that potential employers will respect. After graduation, you must accrue supervised clinical experience, often around 2,000 to 4,000 hours, and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) . State-specific exams or additional requirements may also apply.

The Top 24 Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Institution type, undergraduate in-state, undergraduate out-of-state, graduate in-state, graduate out-of-state, student enrollment, admission rate.

• Intelligent Score
• Alphabetically By University Name
• Acceptance Rate
• In-state Graduate Tuition
• Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
• In-state Undergraduate Tuition
• Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition

Liberty University

Undergraduate tuition.

In-state: $14,791

Out-of-state: $14,791

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,935

Out-of-state: $7,935

Test scores

SAT: 1040-1250

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Delivery format, accreditation.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

More program information.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-424-9595

University of the Cumberlands

In-state: $9,875

Out-of-state: $9,875

In-state: $4,282

Out-of-state: $4,282

SAT: 930-1140

Phone: 606-539-4240

Alaska Pacific University

In-state: $20,350

Out-of-state: $20,350

In-state: $11,700

Out-of-state: $11,700

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Phone: 800-252-7528

Regent University

In-state: $17,220

Out-of-state: $17,220

In-state: $15,552

Out-of-state: $15,552

SAT: 940-1220

Phone: 800-846-4198

National University

In-state: $13,320

Out-of-state: $13,320

In-state: $15,480

Out-of-state: $15,480

Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

Phone: 855-355-6288

Fielding Graduate University

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

In-state: $20,160

Out-of-state: $20,160

Online, On-Campus

American Psychological Association

Phone: 800-340-1099

Michigan State University

In-state: $15,555

Out-of-state: $40,384

In-state: $18,858

Out-of-state: $18,858

SAT: 1100-1300

Higher Learning Commission

Phone: 517-355-1734

Touro University Worldwide

In-state: $14,400

Out-of-state: $14,400

In-state: $9,000

Out-of-state: $9,000

Phone: 818-575-6800

Arizona State University

In-state: $10,710

Out-of-state: $28,800

In-state: $11,720

Out-of-state: $11,720

SAT: 1100-1320

$543 - $1,343

Phone: 855-278-5080

Oregon State University

In-state: $9,846

Out-of-state: $29,445

In-state: $13,257

Out-of-state: $13,257

SAT: 1080-1310

Phone: 800-667-1465

Lesley University

In-state: $29,200

Out-of-state: $29,200

In-state: $18,900

Out-of-state: $18,900

New England Commission of Higher Education

Phone: 617-349-8300

Saybrook University

Phone: 800-825-4480

Loyola University

In-state: $45,500

Out-of-state: $45,500

In-state: $18,594

Out-of-state: $18,594

SAT: 1130-1330

Phone: 312-915-7900

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

In-state: $13,224

Phone: 800-721-8072

Texas Tech University

In-state: $8,683

Out-of-state: $20,953

In-state: $6,788

Out-of-state: $6,788

SAT: 1070-1240

Phone: 806-742-1480

Endicott College

In-state: $34,470

Out-of-state: $34,470

In-state: $12,666

Out-of-state: $12,666

Phone: 978-232-2199

Southern California Seminary

In-state: $36,777

SAT: 940-1150

Phone: 888-389-7244

California Institute of Integral Studies

In-state: $21,116

Out-of-state: $21,116

36.2 - 37.5

Phone: 415-575-6100

How we rank schools

This list features some of the best online doctorate in psychology programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions. The programs on our list have been accredited by reputable organizations, such as the WASC Senior College and University Commission and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education , that assess the objectives, quality, and overall effectiveness of colleges and universities.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology .

Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online doctorate in psychology programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.

What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs?

Career outlook.

An online doctorate in psychology paves the way for various career opportunities. However, some options may require additional licensing or certifications.

Clinical Psychologist: Empathetic individuals with strong interpersonal skills will thrive in clinical psychology. Graduates in this field specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with psychological and emotional issues. They provide therapy and counseling to individuals or groups, helping clients manage and overcome their mental health challenges. Therapeutic approaches often include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, or other evidence-based techniques. Median annual salary: $90,130 Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6% New jobs projected: 12,000 Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychologist: Natural problem-solvers with an analytical mindset may enjoy a career in I-O psychology. Individuals in these roles specialize in applying psychological principles to improve workplace dynamics, productivity, and employee well-being. They conduct surveys, interviews, and observations to assess workplace factors, including job satisfaction and employee performance. Median annual salary: $139,280 Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6% New jobs projected: 12,000 Forensic Psychologist: Those interested in the legal system and criminal behavior may enjoy working as a forensic psychologist, sitting at the intersection of psychology and law. Forensic psychologists conduct assessments of individuals involved in legal cases, including defendants, witnesses, and victims. They often provide expert testimony in court to help judges and juries understand the relevant psychological factors of a case. Median annual salary: $106,420 Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6% New jobs projected: 12,000

How to Choose the Online Doctorate in Psychology Degree That’s Right for You

Step 1: choose your area of study, step 2: research schools and programs, step 3: prepare for applications and tests, step 4: select your program, step 5: determine how you’ll pay for your degree.

Choosing a psychology specialization for a doctoral degree is especially important as it will shape your career options. Consider your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Clinical psychology suits those who aspire to work directly with individuals in therapy or counseling. In contrast, industrial-organizational psychology optimizes workplace dynamics and organizational performance. Meanwhile, forensic psychology is a fit for individuals intrigued by the legal system and criminal behavior. Education and school psychology focuses on academic settings and student well-being.

Additionally, you should also factor in the format and scheduling of your program. Full-time, synchronous programs offer a structured approach suited to those with ample study time, while part-time, asynchronous programs provide flexibility for students managing work and other commitments — enabling them to pursue their doctorate without sacrificing existing obligations.

Researching schools and programs is critical once you have pinpointed your specialization and preferred learning format. First, verify institutional and programmatic accreditation to ensure you’ll receive a high-quality education. Then, ask the following questions to guide your research:

• Is the program 100% online, or are there on-campus requirements?
• What is the faculty’s expertise and experience in your chosen specialization?
• What student support services, such as career counseling or academic advising, are available online?
• Are there opportunities for virtual internships or practicums?
• What is the program’s reputation and rankings in the field?

You can gather this information by visiting school websites, contacting admissions offices, and contacting current students or alumni through social media platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit.

After shortlisting schools, preparation for doctoral program applications is key. Start by thoroughly reviewing each institution’s admission requirements, which may vary. Standard materials typically include:

• Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
• Two to three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume or CV
• GRE scores , though some programs may be test-optional
• Sample research papers or publications (For Ph.D. Programs)

It’s essential to ensure that you meet eligibility requirements regarding prerequisites, GPA, and test scores — as these will vary depending on the institution.

While some students concentrate their applications on a few schools, others cast a broader net to enhance their acceptance odds. Those in the latter category may end up with multiple acceptance letters, requiring a thoughtful decision-making process.

When choosing the right program, revisiting factors like curriculum alignment with your goals, the faculty’s expertise in your specialty, total program cost, and available financial aid is crucial. This reflection ensures a well-informed selection that best matches your aspirations and resources.

Once you’ve selected your psychology program, the next step is planning for its financial aspects.

Scholarships and grants should be your top priority since they don’t require repayment. Reach out to your school’s financial aid office to discover institutional funding opportunities, and be sure to research external options.

It’s equally essential to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to assess your eligibility for federal loans, which usually offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment options. In addition, students who are currently employed may be able to receive tuition assistance benefits through their employer.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Should i get a doctorate in psychology degree in person or online.

The choice between an in-person or online doctorate in psychology depends on your preferences and educational needs. Most institutions offer the same curriculum for both formats, meaning you’ll receive the same high-quality education regardless of the program’s structure.

You should consider your scheduling preferences: in-person programs suit those who thrive in structured classrooms and value face-to-face interaction. At the same time, online learning provides flexibility for students juggling multiple responsibilities. Your decision should align with your lifestyle and what you believe will optimize your learning experience.

How do I apply for an online doctorate in psychology degree program?

While application requirements can vary depending on the institution, most online doctorate in psychology programs can be successfully applied to by following these steps:

• Check specific admission criteria, including prerequisites and test scores.
• Begin an online application on the school’s website.
• Collect transcripts, letters of recommendation, resumes, and a statement of purpose.
• Submit necessary documents according to the institution’s instructions by the application deadline.
• Submit your application and pay the application fee as required.

For program-specific details and to ensure a smooth application process, consult with the school’s admissions counselor.

How much does an online doctorate in psychology degree cost?

The online doctorate in psychology program cost can vary widely by institution. On average, graduate program tuition for the 2020-2021 academic year was approximately $19,749 , but this figure will fluctuate depending on the program you attend. It’s essential to consider additional costs such as textbooks, technology requirements, and travel expenses for any required in-person residencies. Yet, online students often save money by eliminating commuting and housing expenses and having a flexible schedule that allows them to work while studying.

To get precise financial details specific to your chosen program, consult a financial aid counselor at your institution of interest.

How long does it take to complete an online doctorate in psychology degree?

The duration to complete an online doctorate in psychology varies depending on the program type and the student’s pace. Psy.D. programs typically take about four to six years and require 90 to 120 credits, while Ph.D. programs span five to seven years, with credits often exceeding 120. Note that these estimates apply to full-time students; part-time enrollment will likely extend completion timelines significantly.

Is an online doctorate in psychology degree worth it?

An online doctorate in psychology can be a valuable investment, but its worth depends on various factors specific to your career goals and interests. Stary by calculating the Return on Investment (ROI). You can consider the program’s cost alongside potential financial aid, scholarships, and grants. Since some financial aid might involve loans, repayment should be factored in. Then, weigh your projected salary post-graduate against the overall cost. Remember that psychology salaries vary by specialty, with clinical psychologists earning a median of $90,130 , while those in fields like industrial-organizational psychology make upwards of $139,280 .

Ultimately, whether or not an online doctorate in psychology will hinge on your career goals, financial circumstances, and passion for the field.

Related Degrees

• Human and Family Development

20 Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Written by Janice Monti | Edited by Victoria Hudgeons | Last Updated May 2024

A doctorate is the highest-ranking degree in psychology. An online doctorate offers a flexible pathway to high-paying and advanced careers in clinical, teaching, and research settings. Explore our rankings to learn about accredited online psychology doctorate programs and the advantages of pursuing this degree.

Popular Online Psychology Doctoral Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Ph.D. in Psychology 2020

1. liberty university.

Liberty University’s Ph.D. in Psychology – Industrial/Organization Psychology is a 60-credit-hour degree program that is delivered entirely online. Through this program, students acquire training in the study of human behavior in organizations and for the workplace, preparing them to make a difference in their professional careers. Program graduates can hold several different positions, including independent consultant, researcher and writer, and organization mentor or consultant positions. During this program, students will take courses such as Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview, Teaching of Psychology, and Theories and Research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Liberty University is located in Lynchburg, VA, but the university educates students all over the world with its online education programs. Liberty first began its online program in 1985, and with the evolution of the internet, the university offered Christian college degree programs online in 1999 and 2000. Today, Liberty offers degree programs entirely online. With its eight-week-long courses, students can quickly progress through their degrees, and students may transfer up to 15 credits toward their programs. Liberty doesn’t just make education accessible; the university also makes education affordable and has frozen tuition rates for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past four years.

Format: Online

2. Regent University

Regent University offers a Doctor of Education – Educational Psychology program that prepares students to hold leadership positions. Program graduates may go on to work as university faculty, curriculum, and instruction specialists, and even as school district administrators. Students progress through this 66-credit-hour program in eight-week-long course sessions. They will learn about topics such as how to create environments conducive to learning, the psychological background of learning, brain research, teacher education, and more. This program is offered online, making it ideal for students who may have professional and family obligations to balance while earning their degrees. Founded in 1978, Regent is a Christian university located in Virginia Beach, VA. The university consists of seven schools and two colleges and offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students average 36 years of age and may study on a full-time or part-time basis. In addition to the university’s on-campus and online programs, students may also pursue study abroad opportunities in Russia and other locations. Regent students have gone on to be recognized as Teacher of the Year more than 850 times, and the U.S. News & World Report recognized Regent as having the fourth-best online graduate education programs in 2019.

3. Loyola University Chicago

At Loyola University Chicago, students can pursue an Ed.D. in School Psychology degree that’s delivered in a blended format. Students will take online blended-format courses during the fall and spring semesters, then take blended online or on-campus courses during the summers. Students enter and progress through the program in cohorts, which creates a supportive environment. During their study, students can expect to take courses such as Evidence-Based Interventions, Communicating Research Findings, Substance Abuse Counseling, and Family Therapy. Students enrolled in this degree program also have the opportunity to earn additional Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Illinois certifications, giving them increased value for their education. Located in Chicago, Loyola University Chicago was founded in 1870 as St. Ignatius College. Today, over 17,000 students attend the university, which is one of the largest Jesuit, Catholic universities in the country. The university has four campuses, including the John Felice Rome Center in Italy, and offers more than 80 undergraduate majors, 80 minors, and 170 graduate, professional, and certificate programs. These degrees and programs are offered across the university’s 14 schools, colleges, and institutes, and Loyola is staffed by more than 4,000 faculty and staff. The U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Loyola among the top national universities, and this university is one of just 8% of American institutions to have a Phi Beta Kappa honor society.

4. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program that prepares students for psychology degrees working with diverse populations. Program graduates will be ready for a variety of positions, including a psychotherapist, faculty member, consultant, researcher, and administrator roles. This program is offered in a blended format, with students spending three years in residence at the university’s Northern Kentucky campus. Students will take face-to-face courses offered on weekends once a month as well as courses online in the traditional full-semester format. Students also enroll in nine credit hours during their pre-doctoral internship year. Program graduates go on to work in many different settings, including private practice, social services, hospitals, and universities. The University of the Cumberlands has campuses in both Williamsburg and Florence, KY. Founded in 1888 as the Williamsburg Institute, the university became the University of the Cumberlands in 2005. Today, more than 11,000 students attend the university, and the residential student body represents 36 different states. The University of the Cumberlands offers both associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as executive master’s degrees and education certifications. More than 9,000 graduate students attend the university each year. This liberal arts university challenges students to discover, engage, analyze, and evaluate throughout their education and careers.

5. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University’s Ph.D. in Educational Psychology degree program is a hybrid program that prepares students to teach in colleges or universities or to enter into research positions. The program is offered in a face-to-face format, but some coursework is also provided online. Students also attend one-week-long intensive summer sessions on campus. This is a 91-credit-hour program, though students may transfer up to 30 hours of coursework that they’ve completed in the last seven years; students must have earned a B or better in transferrable coursework. Students are encouraged to start this degree program in the fall semester, though applications are accepted and considered throughout the entire year. Texas Tech offers a variety of scholarships and research assistantships to help students afford their education.Located in Lubbock, Texas, Texas Tech was founded in 1923. In the fall of 2018, more than 38,000 students were enrolled at Texas Tech, including 5,835 graduate students. Students can choose from more than 150 undergraduate, 100 graduate, and 50 doctoral degree programs. In 2017-2018, over 1,300 students also decided to study abroad through one of the many opportunities offered. The university’s College of Education produces approximately 500 new teachers every year and has a 100% teacher certification pass rate. Over 2,200 students pursue degrees through the College of Education, which offers two bachelor’s, ten master’s, and nine doctoral degree programs.

6. The University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin’s Ph.D. Program in Psychology is a unique program that allows students to take various paths in completing their doctoral degrees. Most students enter this program with a bachelor’s degree, while some have already earned a master’s degree from another university. Some students earn a master’s degree while progressing toward their doctorate, but other students only receive their doctorate. Students may choose to specialize in Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Science, Social Psychology, Evolutionary Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and more. The program consists of courses, seminars, reading, and research, and students must complete the degree within seven years of beginning the program. Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest research universities in America. Over 51,000 students attend the university, where they learn from 3,000 teaching faculty. The university encompasses 18 colleges and schools, and the student body represents all 50 states. At UT Austin, students can choose from 156 undergraduate degree programs in more than 170 fields of study, as well as 237 graduate and doctoral degree programs. The university also offers 400 study abroad programs.

7. Michigan State University

At Michigan State University, students can pursue a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology degree in a hybrid format. This program is designed to educate and prepare educational leaders who have a deep understanding of how learning and development theories can affect and transform learning environments. Students complete the majority of this five-year program online. Students who can take leave from their jobs can elect to spend one semester fulfilling residential coursework. Graduate assistantships and fellowships may be available during that on-campus semester to help students afford their education. Program graduates will be prepared to assume leadership roles in a variety of educational environments, including in K-12 schools, virtual schools, higher education systems, and community colleges. MSU was founded in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. Today, the university educates over 50,000 students each year. More than 5,700 faculty and academic staff help to provide the quality education that MSU is known for. The university offers over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional study programs. Students can also choose from over 275 study-abroad programs through 60 countries. The U.S. News & World Report has recognized MSU as being among the top universities in the nation; MSU is ranked No. 85 among the top-100 universities in the country and No. 35 among the top public universities in the country.

8. Duquesne University

Duquesne University offers a Psy.D. in School Psychology program that provides students with a comprehensive psychology education. Students learn the nuances of evidence-based practices, but they also learn how to account for local contextual variables when they apply these practices in an education setting. During this 91-credit degree program, students study and address an applied-practice problem during a year-long Applied Project. Program graduates are eligible to become licensed for independent practice. This program prepares students to work in settings, including schools, hospitals, and child agencies or clinics. Among other requirements, program applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate work and must submit a letter of interest, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. Located in Pittsburgh, Duquesne University was founded as a Catholic college in 1878. The university has grown to serve nearly 9,500 students each year and is the only Spiritan university in the country. Duquesne offers a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing students to receive personal attention from their faculty throughout their education. About half of the classes have just 20 or fewer students, which further allows faculty to engage with students. This university has also received recognition for the quality of the education it offers. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Duquesne No. 11 in its national Catholic universities ranking and No. 40 in its Best Value Schools ranking. Additionally, the U.S. News & World Report also ranked Duquesne as No. 80 in its Best Colleges for Veterans category.

9. Felican University

Felician University’s Doctor of Counseling Psychology program is available on campus, as a hybrid program, or entirely online. The program is intended for students who wish to become entry-level health service psychologists, and program graduates are also eligible for licensure in New Jersey. During the program, students complete a one-year full-time internship or a two-year half-time internship. Students will take courses such as Cognition and Affective Basis of Behavior, Statistics for Psychology, Psychometrics, and Management of Professional Practices. Students can join the program in the fall semester and can complete the degree within four to five years. The Felician Sisters founded Felician University in 1942. Today, the university is the only Franciscan university in New Jersey. This co-educational liberal arts university educates about 2,300 undergraduate, graduate, and adult-studies students each year. The university has campuses in Rutherford and Lodi, NJ, and the National Register of Historic Places recognizes the Castle on the Rutherford campus. Felician University offers more than 55 majors, minors, and concentrations across its four academic schools. Students enjoy a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized support from faculty. Additionally, 73% of classes have fewer than 20 students.

10. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Cognition and Instruction degree program prepares students to work with diverse populations. The program follows a research-based approach, and students explore the principles of learning in both theory and practice. Students begin working on their dissertation in the very first course of this 60-credit-hour program. The program is available online, which allows students to continue working while pursuing a degree. These online courses frequently begin, allowing students to begin their education without delay. Working professionals who prefer to learn in-person can also take GCU’s evening programs, which are held one night per week.GCU was chartered in 1949 and is a private Christian university with campuses in Phoenix and Northwest Phoenix. Today, GCU offers online degree programs for working professionals, and more than 70,000 students have pursued these online degrees so far. Students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees online in fields including education, business, liberal arts, and nursing and the health sciences. Students may also choose to pursue degrees offered in hybrid formats, combining online learning with in-person education. GCU has offered these online programs for over a decade.

11. Touro University Worldwide

Students who enroll in the Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology program through Touro University Worldwide can complete the program entirely online with no residency requirements. Students can focus on three areas: Organizational Psychology, Leadership Psychology, or Industrial Psychology. They can also complete a dissertation in an area of their choosing. Program applicants must have a master’s degree and a cumulative master’s GPA of 3.4 or higher. No GRE scores are required for admission to this program, but students must submit a biography, career plan, and statement of their goals in pursuing this degree. The Touro education system incorporates Jewish-sponsored, non-profit educational institutions. Touro University Worldwide’s parent institution is the Touro College and University System. Touro offers students a network of both on-ground and online campuses that create a global-minded approach to a liberal arts education. Through TUW, students can access cutting-edge technology, highly-qualified faculty, and excellent administrative services throughout their education. TUW offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. This university is also military-friendly and provides tuition discounts to veterans, reserve military, and active duty service members and their families.

12. Capella University

Capella University’s online Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program prepares students to pursue their licensure as clinical psychologists. During this program, students will focus on areas including mental disorders, psychotherapy, and clinical training. The courses are offered both online and in-person, and students attend face-to-face residencies that allow them to connect with their peers and faculty. Additionally, students complete internships, a clinical practicum, and research, all of which prepare them for the challenges they will face in a real-world clinical setting. This degree’s curriculum has been designed around APA guidelines, ensuring it prepares students to pursue licensures in many states. Capella was established in 1993 to provide education programs tailored to the unique needs of adult learners. Today, Capella offers 53 degree programs. More than 38,000 students currently attend the university, and students average 39 years in age. Understanding that students have different schedules and learn better in different ways, Capella offers two learning paths. With the GuidedPath, students work toward meeting weekly deadlines and follow a more structured route. Alternatively, the FlexPath option gives students full control of their learning pace, so they can finish a course and move on to the next only when they’re ready. Capella students have access to a support team of faculty, advisors, and mentors who help ensure that students get the most out of their Capella education.

13. Northcentral University

Northcentral University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology degree program. The 60-credit-hour degree takes approximately 48 months to complete. Students can choose from specializations such as Healthy Psychology, Gender Diversity Studies, and Trauma and Disaster Relief. This online program features courses that start every Monday, allowing students to begin their degree program almost immediately. Classes are just one student in size, so students can gain excellent advice and information from their mentoring professors. Students may also be eligible for one of the six new full-tuition Legacy Scholarships awarded in the fall. Founded in 1996, Northcentral offers degree programs to working professionals all over the world. These degree programs have no physical residency requirements and are built on the power of mentoring. Northcentral offers masters and doctoral degrees in marriage and family therapy, technology, health sciences, business, education, and psychology. The university also offers bachelor’s degrees in business, education, and psychology. All Northcentral faculty have doctoral degrees, and with class sizes of one, students have unique access to faculty. Northcentral’s programs are designed with the scheduling flexibility that working professionals need, allowing them to progress toward their degrees while still maintaining family and work commitments.

14. California Institute of Integral Studies

The California Institute of Integral Studies offers an Integral and Transpersonal Psychology Online Ph.D. Program . This 36-unit program takes approximately three years to complete and is provided online with twice-yearly intensives. The degree program’s whole-person approach to psychology prepares students with the skills and research experience they’ll need for professional positions. Students have access to a peer-reviewed journal partially produced by interns, senior field scholars who help to guide research, and more. In addition to online study, students also attend residential intensives in the San Francisco Bay area, which allows them to engage with both their peers and faculty. Dr. Haridas Chaudhuri founded CIIS in 1968 as a branch of the Cultural Integration Fellowship. Over more than 40 years, CIIS has offered cross-cultural studies with an emphasis on Asian religions and cultures. Today, CIIS offers programs in subjects such as art, religion, cultural anthropology, and health studies. In the fall of 2018, CIIS’ enrollment was nearly 1,500 students, 9% of whom were international students. At CIIS, students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees and have access to a library housing more than 158,000 books and over 14,000 electronic journals.

15. Alaska Pacific University

At Alaska Pacific University, students can pursue a Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology degree. This program is designed for students who have a master’s degree and who wish to become licensed psychologists in Alaska. During the program, students complete synchronous work through online classes in the evenings.Additionally, students attend on-campus intensives every six weeks that help to prepare them for internship placement. APU also offers a variety of scholarships for psychology students, including the James C. Parsons Memorial Scholarship, the Cook Inlet Region Inc. Scholarship Fund, and the Chenega Corporation Scholarship. APU is located in Anchorage, Alaska, and offered its first classes in 1960. APU offers associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as certificate programs. Program areas include Alaska Native Governance, Nursing, Community Health, and Alaska Rural Management. For students who aren’t yet sure which path they would like to pursue, APU’s Non-Degree Seeking admissions option allows students to take college classes without enrolling in a full degree program.

16. University of Arizona Global Campus

UAGC’s Doctor of Psychology program is an online degree that prepares students to improve the emotional and mental health of others through their professional work. Students progress through this 62-credit-hour program in courses between six-to-nine weeks in length. During the program, students can choose from six specializations, including Educational Leadership, Industrial Organizational Psychology, and Sport and Performance Psychology. In addition to core and specialization courses, students also complete a capstone seminar and an Applied Doctoral Project. UAGC works to provide students with accessible, affordable, innovative, high-quality degree programs. Currently, the university offers more than 80 online degree programs that students can access anywhere, with no on-campus residency requirements. Courses are delivered in five- or six-week terms, rather than following a semester format, allowing students to progress through their coursework quickly. Because the classes are offered online asynchronously, students can log in at any time of day, so they can continue to meet their personal and professional obligations while simultaneously investing in their education. Thanks to UAGC’s online learning platform, students can communicate with faculty and their peers, read coursework, and submit assignments.

17. Fielding Graduate University

At Fielding Graduate University, students can earn a Clinical Psychology Ph.D. degree delivered uniquely. Students attend National Sessions, which are week-long events that take place throughout the country. During these sessions, students attend workshops and seminars, hear from guest speakers and forums, and attend student-led learning events and dissertation committee meetings, alumni presentations, guest presentations, and more. Often, graduation ceremonies also occur at these sessions. This program is only available to students who live in the United States or Canada. Located in Santa Barbara, CA, Fielding educates nearly 1,000 students every year. Students range in age from 23 to 82 and enjoy a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university was founded in 1974 by three higher-education administrators and educators who realized that changing demographics was also changing the higher-education field. As a result, Fielding’s degree programs are designed for adult students who are already mid-career and who learn differently than youth. Fielding’s faculty have extensive real-world experience and scholarship that allows them to create quality-learning experiences and cross-program collaboration opportunities for students.

18. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Ph.D. in International Psychology with a concentration in Trauma Services program is delivered online, making it suitable for students balancing a full-time job with their education. Students progress through the program in online cohorts, which helps to create a supportive network. In addition to online coursework, students participate in two nine-day international Field Experiences during years two and three of the program. Program graduates will have the skills needed to create programs addressing mental health issues resulting from trauma. Graduates will be prepared to work in a variety of settings, including nonprofit, education, government, international help organizations, and more. Founded in 1979, TCSPP offers over 20 degree programs today as well as many international experiences for its 4,300 students. TCSPP has campuses in Chicago, New Orleans, Dallas, Southern California, and Washington, D.C., and also offers courses online. TCSPP has 20 global academic partners and is, therefore, able to offer its students many valuable international and study abroad opportunities, helping them to develop a global perspective within their education. During their studies, students gain relevant real-world experience, and through the school’s fieldwork, students serve the global community for over 1.2 million hours annually. Many students report that working with underserved populations during their degree programs is a life-changing experience.

19. Saybrook University

Saybrook University’s online Ph.D. in Psychology degree program prepares students for professional careers in education, community health centers, prisons, non-profits, and other settings. Students may choose to specialize in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health; Creativity Studies; Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology; or in Psychophysiology. In addition to taking courses online, students also attend two five-day-long conferences on campus each year. Additionally, students must attend a one-time, two-day residential orientation when they begin their studies. Students who enroll in this degree program full-time can expect to complete the program within five to six years.Located in Pasadena, CA, Saybrook University features a College of Social Sciences and a College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences. Its residential conferences complement Saybrook’s online learning opportunities. Students and staff come together for five-day events in Monterey, CA, at the beginning of each semester. These conferences are attended by more than 300 people and feature over 150 courses and events. During the conferences, students can engage with students and faculty from all over the world. These unique events create an engaging, personal, supportive environment that allows for more in-person learning time than students traditionally find with other entirely-online or hybrid degree programs.

20. Sofia University

At Sofia University, the Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology program takes approximately three years to complete and is delivered both online and in low-residency formats. Students can choose concentrations in Applied Transpersonal Psychology, Consciousness and Creativity Studies, and Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience. While coursework is delivered online, students are expected to attend two in-person seminars in Northern California each year. Students may also decide to participate in an optional community praxis sequence. During the program, students will study research methods to prepare for their dissertation work.Sofia University, located in Palo Alto, CA, was founded in 1975 as the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology. While created to educate psychologists, the university has since expanded to offer degrees in computer science and business. Sofia offers a variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Students hail from many different professional backgrounds, including the health, law, theology, and education fields, and they attend Sofia to achieve career development and personal growth and to learn how to better contribute to their communities. Sofia University works to keep education affordable, and its tuition rates are less than those at comparable institutions.

Our Ranking Methodology

Online-Phd-Programs.org ranks doctoral programs with data from authoritative sources like the U.S. Department of Education, while accounting for factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability.

This ranking is from 2020. For more about how Online-Phd-Programs.org evaluates and ranks education programs, read more about our ranking methodology.

Why Get an Online Psychology Doctorate?

Earning an online doctorate in psychology can be challenging, requiring a significant investment of time and money. However, it can be worth the effort. Key benefits of this degree may include:

• Licensure: While each state determines its own regulations, you need a doctorate from an accredited psychology program to become a licensed psychologist, no matter where you plan to practice.
• Earning Potential: A doctorate degree can boost your overall earnings. The median weekly salary for a doctoral degree-holder is $1,909 compared to $1,574 for a master’s and $1,334 for a bachelor’s, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
• Specialized Expertise for Career Advancement: A doctorate in psychology provides advanced training and research skills in highly specialized areas, preparing graduates to make significant contributions to the field and enhancing their career prospects.
• Recognition of Online Degrees: An accredited online psychology doctorate program offers the same academic quality as a campus-based degree. Many of the nation’s top-ranked schools offer online doctorates in psychology.
• Savings and Flexibility of Online Programs: Some schools offer online learners reduced rates. Distance learning makes it easier to manage coursework around work and family obligations and helps reduce housing and commuting expenses.

Accreditation for Online Psychology Doctorate Programs

Institutional and programmatic accreditation in higher education ensures an ongoing commitment to academic quality. Regional agencies that administer institutional accreditation evaluate the academic and organizational structure of an entire college or university. Programmatic accreditors conduct an in-depth assessment of a specialized program within a college or university.

The American Psychological Association (APA) is the primary programmatic accreditor of Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy) and Psy.D. (doctor of psychology) programs. APA accreditation verifies a program’s ability to deliver consistent academic quality and best practices in evidence-based training.

Attending an accredited psychology doctorate program does not guarantee licensure, but it increases your chances of securing a required postgraduate internship and qualifies you to take the licensure exams required by most states. The APA accredits doctoral programs with some online coursework but not fully online degrees.

How Much Do Online Psychology Doctorate Graduates Make?

According to BLS data , psychologists in May 2023 earned a median annual income of $92,740, but salary ranges vary considerably by specialty, employer, and location. For example, industrial-organizational psychologists rank among the highest-paid psychologists, earning a median salary of $147,420 annually, while the median earnings for school psychologists run much lower at $84,940.

The BLS projects the employment of clinical and counseling psychologists to increase by 11% between 2022 and 2032, one of the highest rates of job growth among all psychology specialties. Currently, clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median income of $96,100 per year. Professionals in these two specialties earn the highest salaries working in research settings and hospitals.

New Jersey, the top-paying state for clinical and counseling psychologists, offers an annual average salary of $148,370, followed by $132,410 for California.

Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Ph.D. Programs

Can i do a ph.d. in psychology online.

Although the APA does not accredit fully online Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs, attending an APA-accredited program that includes some online course components will help you qualify for postgraduate internships and licensure.

Is a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. better for psychology?

The Ph.D. and Psy.D. are both academically respectable terminal degrees. If you are interested in scientific investigation, a Ph.D. is the right choice to prepare you for academic and research careers. A Psy.D. works best if you want to pursue a career in an advanced clinical role.

Are online doctoral degrees legitimate?

Accredited online psychology doctorate programs follow the same academic standards and best practices as traditional campus-based programs. Transcripts and diplomas do not differentiate between online and on-campus courses. Prospective job candidates who graduated from accredited doctorate programs, regardless of the delivery format, qualify for the same employment opportunities.

How long does a Ph.D. in psychology take online?

A doctorate in psychology may take between 5-7 years to complete, including fieldwork and internships. The number of hours to earn a doctorate varies widely, from 60-120 credits. Most students enter a doctorate after completing a master’s degree; programs that admit students with only a bachelor’s degree require more classes.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD-PSY)

100% online phd-psy.

Complete your studies on your own time.

New start date every Monday

Start your first course when it’s convenient for you.

46 Months to your PhD-PSY

Finish your PhD-PSY in just 20 courses.

National and Northcentral have merged, and this program is now offered by NU.  Learn more .

PhD-PSY in Psychology

Prepare for leadership roles in psychology with the 100% online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD-PSY) degree program at National University. As a student, you’ll hone your critical thinking skills and expand your knowledge base to evaluate individual, social, organizational, and global problems. You’ll also learn and practice research methods as you make the transition from doctoral student to independent scholar in your field.

In NU’s online PhD in Psychology, you’ll be prepared to excel in your profession with applied learning in case studies, scenarios, vignettes, and real-life situations. You’ll gain a wealth of experience from your paired mentoring professors in NU’s PhD-PSY program.

Prepare for Careers in Advanced Psychology and Earn Your PhD Online

As it concerns psychology, PhD programs can’t be found anywhere else to match National University’s uniquely flexible approach, which includes weekly course starts to fit your schedule. Start today!

Tailor your online PhD in Psychology to match your interests with one of these specializations: 

Counseling Psychology

General psychology.

• Gerontology 
• Health Psychology 
• Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity

Social policy and behavioral health administration, sport and performance psychology.

• Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders 

Trauma and Disaster Relief

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Course Details

• Credit Hours: 60
• Courses: 20
• Estimated Time to Complete: 46 months

The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD-PSY) degree program can be completed in 60 credits. Each course runs 8 weeks, except for the research, dissertation, and internship courses which run 12 weeks. You’ll receive 3 semester credits per course but  may require additional credit hours , depending on the time required to complete the dissertation research. If granted, additional courses will be added to the student degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. Students who do not complete their program in accordance with these policies may be dismissed.

Course Sequence

Students in this course will be prepared for success in the psychology doctoral program at the University. Students are introduced to relevant academic communities, professional standards, and doctoral-level expectations. Essential skills needed to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology are emphasized, including critical thinking, comprehending complex scholarly texts and research articles, and effective written communications. Students will identify and begin to explore potential research topics for use in their doctoral studies and complete the course with a roadmap to navigate their way to degree completion.

This course focuses on scholarly and academic writing with an overarching goal of critically analyzing and thoughtfully synthesizing research findings while adhering to APA style and the principles of Academic Integrity. The emphases in this course are on how to (a) conduct effective literature searches; (b) critically review and summarize research studies; (c) write comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature; (d) formulate ideas and convey them in an ethical fashion; and (e) use feedback to revise and improve one’s work.

This doctoral-level course focuses on the fundamentals of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches to psychological research. Students gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach, and how these methods apply to a research topic. The concepts of critical evaluating, published research, research ethics, and developing a research proposal will also be explored and practiced. In addition, it provides a foundation for subsequent research courses in preparation for successfully completing a dissertation at the University.

This course provides an introductory exploration of statistics for the graduate student. It includes instruction on the calculation, use, and interpretation of descriptive statistics, and introduces inferential statistical analysis. The emphasis of this course is on providing a working knowledge of basic statistical concepts to help the student understand statistical methodology used in psychology, and also more generally, developing a working knowledge of statistical usage in everyday life.

This doctoral course in tests and measurements provides the student conceptual as well as practical guidelines in test and scale construction. This course will expose the students to concepts and theories including: the nature of psychological constructs and concepts, measurements and measurement error, item construction and analysis, Classical Test Theory, and the different approaches to establishing instrument reliability and validity. Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills and concepts to a construct relevant to their own research interests.

This doctoral-level course will introduce the student to psychological test construction, administration and interpretation as well as current research in the area. Commonly used tests to assess cognition and personality will be studied.

In this course you will examine the principles of quantitative research methodologies. Specifically, you will take a deep dive into the different types of quantitative research methodologies, when to use each, strengths/weaknesses, associated reliability/validity issues, and sampling methods. You will learn how to identify appropriate statistical analyses based on research questions and data considerations, as well as use SPSS to run, analyze, and interpret statistical results. You will explore how to examine, analyze, and interpret psychometric properties for existing instruments/measures in psychological research. Additionally, you will examine feasibility issues and ethical principles related to quantitative research methodologies. Scholarly writing and appropriate use of scholarly literature will be reinforced throughout this course.

In this doctoral-level course, you will be immersed in the intricacies of qualitative research methods tailored for the psychology field. You will be introduced to a spectrum of methodological approaches and the foundational philosophical premises guiding them. Central to the course is hands-on application: you’ll gain the skills to adeptly navigate the stages of problem formulation, method selection, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. We place a strong emphasis on the ethical dimensions of research, ensuring you are well-versed in the ethical considerations intrinsic to qualitative studies. Moreover, we encourage you to adopt a critical lens when assessing study design, execution, and data interpretation. Research is not just about data; it is about sharing discoveries. This course ensures you develop advanced communication skills for disseminating your findings across diverse platforms. Plus, you’ll have opportunities to craft and present comprehensive qualitative research proposals. By the course’s conclusion, you’ll not only be proficient in methodologies but also gain a deeper appreciation for the depth and transformative potential of qualitative research in psychology.

This course focuses on how to conduct effective literature searches, specifically in preparation for the dissertation, develop a plan for writing comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature, and critically review and write about underlying theoretical frameworks that lay the foundation for future research. The overarching goal of this course is for students to conduct an extensive search of the peer-reviewed empirical and theoretical literature in their topic area and identify potential areas of inquiry for their dissertation.

The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline prior to candidacy status and demonstrated the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. Students will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer-reviewed research to support all assignments in this course. The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is completed only after all foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.

Students in this course will be required to complete Chapter 1 of their dissertation proposal including a review of literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach, and the significance of the study. A completed, committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 is required to pass this course successfully. Students who do not receive approval of Chapter 1 to minimum standards will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of Chapter 1.

Students in this course will be required to work on completing Chapters 1-3 of their dissertation proposal and receive committee approval for the Dissertation Proposal (DP) in order to pass the class. Chapter 2 consists of the literature review. Chapter 3 covers the research methodology method and design and to includes population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. In this course, a completed, committee-approved Chapters 2 and 3 are required and, by the end of the course, a final approved dissertation proposal (against the minimum rubric standards). Students who do not receive approval of the dissertation proposal will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of these requirements.

Students in this course will be required to prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application, collect data, and submit a final study closure form to the IRB. Students still in data collection at the end of the 12-week course will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to complete data collection and file an IRB study closure form.

In this dissertation course students work on completing Chapters 4 and 5 and the final Dissertation Manuscript. Specifically, students will complete their data analysis, prepare their study results, and present their findings in an Oral Defense and a completed manuscript. A completed, Committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense are required to complete the course and graduate. Students who do not receive approval for either or both their Dissertation Manuscript or defense can take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of either or both items as needed.

*The Elective course in the PhD in Psychology degree can be satisfied by any 8000-level course in the Department of Psychology.

Exceptions:

• The elective for both counseling specializations is PSY-8606 Clinical Supervision.
• The preferred elective course for the Industrial/Organizational Psychology specialization is PSY-8413. Students that would like to work with the I/O Psychology Internship Coordinator to participate in an internship will need to enroll in PSY-7118 Internship in I/O Psychology, after the I/O Psychology Internship Coordinator approves the internship site and plan
• The preferred elective course for Substance-Related Disorders is PSY-8118 Grant Writing in Psychology or PSY-8511 Behavioral Health Administration and Management or PUB-7005 Public Budgeting and Finance.
• The preferred elective course for Social Policy and Behavioral Health Administration is PSY-8118 Grant Writing in Psychology or PSY-8140 Community Psychology. Students that would like to work with the Internship Coordinator to participate in an internship will need to use this elective to enroll in PSY-8508 Internship in Social Policy and Mental Health Administration, after the Internship Coordinator approves the internship site and plan. 

Degree Requirements

The PhD in Psychology degree requires a minimum of 60 credit hours at the graduate level beyond the master’s degree.

The University may accept a maximum of 12 semester credit hours in transfer toward the doctoral degree for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university while enrolled in a doctoral program with a grade of “B” or better.

The PhD degree programs in psychology have the following graduation requirements:

• A minimum of 48 credit hours of graduate instruction must be completed through NU
• Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
• Satisfactory completion of the Pre-Candidacy Prospectus course 
• University approval of dissertation manuscript and successful completion of the dissertation defense
• Submission of the approved final dissertation manuscript to the University Registrar, including the original unbound dissertation manuscript and an electronic copy
• Official documents on file for basis of admission: a conferred master’s degree from an accredited academic institution
• Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University
• All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their complimentary diploma and/or degree posted transcript

Graduates of the National University PhD in Psychology program have a diverse array of work opportunities to grow professionally. Depending on students’ interests, possible career pathways include*:

• College Professor / Instructor
• College / University Administrator
• Health Information Manager / Director
• Medical Office / Practice Manger
• Researcher (government or private business / organizations)
• Government positions (advocacy, interventions, eldercare, crisis intervention, etc.)
• Non-profit organizations (support services, educational services, etc.)
• And many more, in public and private facilities of all different sizes!

*Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Depending on where you reside, many positions may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met. We encourage you to also review program specific requirements with an NU advisor. Any data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee that completion of any degree program will achieve the underlying occupation or commensurate salary.

Specializations

Substance-related and addictive disorders.

Substance-related and addictive disorders remain a public health concern with all ages. Looking on current data on the staggering demand for treatment for substance use and addictive disorders, the demand for professionals who understand the theoretical underpinnings and are able to conduct research in this field becomes clear. The purpose of the substance-related and addictive disorders specialization is to provide mental health professionals, providers and researchers knowledge and expertise in the area of substance related and addictive disorders. Dynamics of substance-use and addictive disorders, with an emphasis on assessment and treatment planning will be explored. Coursework also examines research and theories related to substance use and addictive disorders, as well as co-occurring disorders.

Specialization Courses – 18 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.

The purpose of the Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity specialization is to provide an in-depth understanding of the social, cultural, and biological foundations of human sexuality, gender, and sexual orientation, prepare students to apply principles of psychology related to gender diversity in a variety of settings, and carry out research related to gender diversity in a variety of settings. Eighteen (18) credit hours of coursework are devoted to Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity studies.

The General Psychology specialization allows students to select courses from a broad range of electives to fit their personal and professional goals. This specialization also prepares students to apply principles of psychology and conduct research related to their area of interest in a variety of settings.

*Courses listed are examples and upon acceptance to the program, the initial degree plan will include these courses. Students in the General Psychology specialization are encouraged to choose six courses (18 credit hours) based on personal and professional goals and will work with their Academic and Finance Advisor to revise their degree plan. Students can select any PSY-8000 level course for this specialization. Courses from other disciplines may fill this requirement, with Department of Psychology approval. Please consult the course descriptions for a full list of available courses. Note: an internship course cannot count towards the degree program. 

Specialization Courses – 18 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks. 

Gerontology

The Gerontology specialization is designed to assist in training individuals interested in working with older adults and their families. As the world’s population continues to age, the demand will continue for individuals trained in gerontology. Coursework in this certificate prepares individuals for career opportunities in health facilities, mental health clinics, numerous government agencies, and community organizations.

Health Psychology

The purpose of the Health Psychology specialization is to provide an in-depth understanding of the total matrix of factors influencing psychological and physical health and illness, prepare students to apply biopsychosocial principles in a variety of settings, and carry out research related to health psychology in a variety of settings. Eighteen (18) credit hours of coursework are devoted to Health Psychology.

Industrial Organizational Psychology

In the PhD-PSY in Industrial-Organizational Psychology specialization, you will learn to apply psychological theories to critical issues in the fields of business and industry. Specifically, you’ll gain expertise in the dynamics of leadership and management, the best practices for enhancing employee motivation and engagement, and the structure and procedures of organizational development. You will become adept at applying the scientific method to investigate issues of critical relevance to individuals, businesses, and society; including employee stress and well-being, workforce diversity, and work-life balance. The application of tests and measurements and the interpretation of their results as applied to employee selection, performance appraisals, and training evaluations will also be addressed. 

During the program, you will have the option to complete an internship, where you can apply your newly gained knowledge and skills in an organizational setting. The internship course offers you the opportunity to train in the field, build your professional resume, and network with organizational practitioners. This I/O specialization was created to align with the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology’s (SIOP) guidelines for education and training, and thus it offers course work which allows for the development of key competencies required for success in the field. In particular, the I/O specialization will prepare you to assume leadership positions in industry, government, consulting, and education.

Social Policy and Behavioral Health Administration Specialization will focus on two areas: social policy and behavioral health administration. These two areas are highly related in the field and will allow future psychologists the ability to be leaders in the field in different settings (e.g., government, community-based organizations, etc.) and influence decision-making. The specialization contains 21 credits with 4 required courses and 3 electives from a list of 7 courses in PSY, DMFT, and PUB. Students will have the ability to design their specialization with the electives. For example, they may choose organizational-focused courses or complete a supervised internship experience.

Specialization and Elective Courses – 21 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.

Increasing natural disasters, incidents of abuse and neglect, terrorism, war, violence, and conflict on a local, national, and global level have created a demand for individuals trained in identifying and treating the aftermath of trauma. Victims, witnesses, and relief workers who experience trauma may also find themselves facing a variety of psychological issues, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, physical health problems and be placed at future risk. Mental health workers would benefit from understanding the various facets of trauma, its impact on coping skills, and treatment, intervention, and prevention strategies.

Exposure to trauma and disaster can lead to emotional and behavioral issues for victims, survivors, relief workers, and bystanders. The Trauma and Disaster Relief specialization prepares students to work with individuals who have witnessed natural disasters, accidents, abuse, physical injury, bullying, etc., and who are now grappling with how to cope or to integrate memories or feelings related to that experience.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology specialization in counseling psychology is designed for mental health professionals who are licensed or pre-licensed having a foundation of clinical knowledge and skills at the master level. The program is intended for professionals who seek to improve their theoretical knowledge and clinical skills, while preparing them to advance their career in the mental health field. In addition, the program is designed to provide for the meaningful integration of theory, practical application, research, and scholarship, culminating in a dissertation.

PhD-PSY specialization students will learn about clinical supervision, psychopharmacology, program evaluation, research, and cognitive and personality assessment. In addition, students in this program can choose to deepen their knowledge and skills in several areas of their interest. For example, students can choose courses in psychopathology, addictions assessment and treatment, multicultural psychology, and other areas of interest.

The PhD Specialization in Sport and Performance Psychology offers a strong base in theory and research, promotes an awareness of ethics and a respect for diversity, and will help you advance your critical thinking and mental performance coaching skills. Taught by professors who all hold doctoral degrees, you will analyze the latest theories and trends in sport psychology literature and gain an in-depth understanding of the essential applied strategies for enhancing performance. In addition, you will gain advanced knowledge about leadership, motivation, and ethics in sport and performance psychology. Also, you will explore topics related to sport injury and rehabilitation and diversity in sport.

Program Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of National University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD-PSY) degree program, you’ll be able to:

• Appraise theories and principles in psychology to inform professional contexts
• Evaluate research methods and data analysis in psychology
• Select psychological principles and research for application to personal, social, and organizational issues
• Evaluate ethical principles of psychology in academic and professional issues
• Critique diversity issues in professional contexts
• Design clear and effective communication for fellow professionals and the public

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call  (855) 355-6288  or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply to the Psychology PhD program, simply  start your application today .

Weekly Course Starts

Finish Your Dissertation!

Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) is a 100% online pathway helping students “All But Dissertation” finish their doctoral degree.

• Block transfer of credit from your previous institution
• Flexible monthly start dates
• Highly trained faculty providing feedback each week on your dissertation
• Strategic support and targeted resources to help you finish

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• 190+ Degree Programs
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We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 230,000 alumni worldwide.

“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”

-Francisco R., Class of 2016

Useful Links

• Clinical vs. Non-clinical Psychology PhD Programs

The Key Grant Scholarship

Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

Frequently Asked Questions

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a doctoral degree that can be awarded in various fields of study, including psychology, while a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a professional degree focused specifically on psychology. The primary difference between the two is that PhD programs tend to focus on research and theoretical knowledge, while PsyD programs focus more on practical, hands-on experience.

Both PsyD and PhD degrees are highly respected and valued in the field of psychology. The choice between the two depends on individual career goals and interests. If the focus is on clinical practice and practical experience, a PsyD may be a better fit. If the goal is to conduct research and teach at the university level, a PhD may be a better choice.

The value of earning a PhD in Psychology depends on your career goals and interests. A PhD in psychology can lead to a variety of career paths, including academic research, teaching, clinical practice, and more. However, a PhD requires a high level of dedication and commitment. Prospective students should carefully consider their goals and options before pursuing a degree in Psychology.

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

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25 Best Online PhD in Psychology Programs

Explore online PhD in Psychology programs. Compare schools and see your job prospects after graduation.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for psychologists has an estimated growth of 3%.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

When you join the field as an expert in your discipline, you may be able to make between $76,000 and $116,000 per year.

List of Schools Offering Online PhD in Psychology Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Alaska Pacific University

Alaska Pacific University is a liberal arts and sciences university in Anchorage, Alaska. It was established in 1957.

Alaska Pacific University’s Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology is designed to meet the needs of working professionals seeking the academic requirements to work as a licensed psychologist Classes are delivered through synchronous online evening classes and intensive on-campus classes.

• Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology

APU  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

2. Arizona State University

Arizona State University is one of the largest universities in the United States in terms of enrollment. It has 5 campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area, with 4 learning centers in Arizona.

ASU offers a Doctorate in Behavioral Health program, which features specialized coursework focusing on teaching evidence-based behavioral interventions. It comes with a 400-hour internship for students who are licensed as behavioral, medical, or professionals.

• Online PhD in Behavioral Health

ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Committee (HLC) of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

3. California Institute of Integral Studies

California Institute of Integral Studies is based in San Francisco, California. It consists of four schools: the School of Professional Psychology & Health, the School of Undergraduate Studies, the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the School of Consciousness and Transformation.

The school offers an online PhD program in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology. It aims to deepen learner’s skills and make relevant contributions to shaping their areas of specialization. Students need to complete 36 units for a period of 3 years.

• online PhD in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology

CIIS is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

4. California Southern University

California Southern University was founded in 1978 and is located in Costa Mesa, California. It offers programs at the associate, bachelor, masters, and doctoral levels.

California Southern’s Doctor of Psychology degree program is applied, clinically focused, and meets the educational requirements for licensure as a clinical psychologist in California.

The program can be completed in 4 years with all the coursework taken online. Students will also be required to do a practicum at approved local sites.

• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

CalSouthern is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

5. Capella University

Capella University delivers most of its courses online. It is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota and was established in 1993. Presently, it offers 52 degree programs wig more than 1,900 degree courses.

The university’s PhD in Psychology online program is designed to give professionals the tools to take advanced roles in areas such as psychology, mental health, business, education, or public policy.

Areas of specialization include General Psychology, Behavior Analysis, Developmental Psychology, Educational Psychology, and Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

Online PhD in Clinical Psychology

Capella U is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Duquesne University

Duquesne University is a Catholic university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It takes pride in its commitment to providing high-quality education that emphasizes both intellectual and ethical development.

Duquesne University’s PsyD in School Psychology is a 91-credit program that trains students in evidence-based practices founded in scientific literature and theory.

The curriculum employs aspects of multiculturalism and diversity, conducting consistent outcomes assessments for program improvement and support.

• Psy.D. School Psychology

Duquesne is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education

7. Felician University

Felician University, a Catholic university in New Jersey, has campuses in Lodi and Rutherford. It was founded in 1923 by the Felician sisters.

The university’s Doctorate in Counseling Psychology conducts classes at Lodi campus and online. It prepares graduates to become entry-level health service psychologists and license-eligible psychologists in New Jersey.

The training focuses on developing the necessary skills required to work as a psychologist and an independent practitioner.

• Doctorate in Counseling Psychology

Felician University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

8. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, California offers postgraduate and doctoral degree programs that are primarily delivered online.

Fielding Graduate University offers a doctoral program in Clinical Psychology. The program includes online and in-person seminars, week-long residential sessions, meetings with faculty and other students in your region, research, and clinical training experiences.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology

Fielding Graduate University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

9. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is a non-denominational Christian university in Phoenix, Arizona. It was founded in 1949.

The university offers a PhD in General Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition and Instruction. It is designed to help those who wish to work with adult education in economically and culturally diverse communities. The coursework includes studying social cognition and assessments.

• PhD in Psychology: Cognition & Instruction

GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

10. Keiser University

Keiser University is based in Florida, and it offers educational programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels. These programs can be completed in both traditional and online formats.

The Doctoral Program in Psychology follows a scholar-practitioner model that allows students to integrate scholarly research with classroom expertise. It aims to challenge and develop students with rigorous coursework and relevant teaching and research activities.

• Psychology, PhD

Keiser U is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

11. Liberty University

Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, is one of the world’s largest Christian universities in the world. It offers more than 600 degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

Liberty University offers the PhD in Psychology degree program with an emphasis on Industrial/Organizational Psychology, which provides training in the study of human behavior in the workplace. It has 60 credit hours and can be completed within an average of 3 years.

Classes are done 100% online in 8-week courses.

• Online Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Liberty U is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

12. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago is a Catholic university in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded by the Jesuits in 1870.

The university offers a PhD in Counseling Psychology, which allows graduates to be eligible for the Clinical Psychologist Licensure Examination. It trains students to develop an in-depth understanding of various issues related to cultural diversity and social justice.

Typically, the program takes four to five years of study.

• PhD in Counseling Psychology

Loyola is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

13. Michigan State University

Michigan State University was founded in 1855 and was first named the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. Presently, MSU is one of the largest universities in the country in terms of the student population.

MSU offers a hybrid format of the PhD in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology. It is a rigorous, five-year program of study completed primarily online.

The program aims to develop educational leaders who comprehend the need to create technologically sound pedagogies based on innovative research and practice.

• Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology

MSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. National University

Founded in 1971, National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions headquartered in San Diego, California.

NU offers a 100% online program for a PhD in Psychology that is designed to answer the growing interest in the field of psychology. It seeks to prepare graduates to stand out and excel in the profession. Training includes applied experiential learning with case studies, scenarios, and real-life situations.

It requires the completion of 60 credit hours and can potentially be completed in 46 months.

• PhD in Psychology Online

National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

15. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is Oregon’s largest university with over 32,000 students from all over the country and across the globe l.

The university’s PhD in Counseling program is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as clinical supervisors, advanced practitioners, and counselors in clinical and academic settings. The program is offered in a “hybrid” format, which involves both face-to-face and online instruction.

• Ph.D. in Counseling

Oregon State is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

16. Pacifica Graduate Institute

Pacifica Graduate Institute was founded in 1976 and has two campuses in Santa Barbara, California.

The school offers the PhD Jungian Psychology and Archetypal Studies degree program, which is anchored on the works of C.G. Jung and James Hillman.

In this degree program, students can study different approaches to the psyche that foster healing, creativity, self-expression, transformation, and the development of consciousness.

• Online Ph.D. Jungian Psychology and Archetypal Studies

Pacifica Graduate Institute  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

17. Regent University

Regent University was founded in 1978 and is located in Virginia Beach, VA. It has 135 programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels – all taught from a Christian perspective.

The university’s Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology degree program allows for a broad area of academic inquiry.

Students can explore and study topics like the psychological foundation of learning, creating environments conducive to learning, cognitive strategies for learning in children and adults, brain research, teacher education, faculty roles, and professional development in different settings.

• Doctor of Education – Educational Psychology

Regent is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

18. Saybrook University

Saybrook University, established in 1971, is located in Pasadena, California.

The Online PhD in Psychology degree program at Saybrook University is designed to help individuals succeed professionally in a variety of areas, including education, the juvenile justice system, community health centers, corporate offices, and non-profit organizations.

Specializations include Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health; Creativity Studies; Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology; and Psychophysiology.

• Online Ph.D. in Psychology

Saybrook University  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

19. Sofia University

Sofia University is located in Palo Alto, California, and was established in 1975 by James Fadiman and Robert Frager.

The university’s Doctor of Philosophy in Transpersonal Psychology is a 75-unit degree program that is delivered fully online. The average completion length is 3 years. It provides a unique and extraordinary opportunity to study the theories and practices of transpersonal psychology.

Students can work closely with faculty members who provide exceptional support and facilitate social and emotional development.

• Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology

Sofia University  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

20. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University, established in 1923, offers over 150 courses through 13 colleges.

The university’s PhD in Educational Psychology is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive knowledge of educational foundations, learning, motivation, and development. It aims to prepare individuals for careers in educational research and various academic career positions. The program has 91 credit hours.

• Educational Psychology – PhD

Texas Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

21. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a global innovator in the field of Psychology for over 40 years.

The school offers a PhD in International Psychology with Trauma Services Concentration. It is a full-time, online degree program with 3-4 years length of completion.

It is designed to help students acquire the skills necessary to lead organizations in developing prevention training and establishing programs to address different issues in mental health caused by traumatic experiences.

• Ph.D. in International Psychology Trauma Services Concentration

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

22. Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide offers flexible online programs and courses at an attainable rate.

The university’s Online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology aims to help students to gain a better understanding of what motivates their workforce.

It is designed to give professionals the skills and tools required to design evidence-based solutions in their organizations. It can be completed 100% online with affordable tuition rates.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology

Touro University Worldwide  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

23. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is the flagship university of the University of Texas System.

The university’s Department of Psychology PhD program brings together the best faculty and staff to provide graduate and undergraduate students the support needed to fulfill the school’s scientific and educational missions.

The school’s graduate program and Clinical program both ranked #8 in US News & World Report’s list.

• Ph.D. Program in Psychology

The University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands is a Christian university in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It was founded by Baptist ministers in 1888.

The university offers the PhD in Clinical Psychology program, which is designed to help students develop the skills required to obtain licensure as a psychologist in the Commonwealth of Kentucky as well as in other states.

It is a four-year program that lets students actively participate in clinical instruction, clinical practicum, and doctoral dissertations.

• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

25. Walden University

Walden University has been offering degrees and certificates in various undergraduate and graduate programs for over 50 years. Programs offered reflect market trends and enable adult learners to achieve their educational goals.

Walden University offers a PhD in Psychology program. It gives opportunities for students to achieve post-graduation success and empower them to excel as researchers, educators, or consultants. It is offered completely online and has 55 credit hours.

• Ph.D. in Psychology

Walden U is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Types of Online PhD in Psychology Degrees

Psychology is a vast field, and psychology doctorates come in many forms. You can choose an online psychology degree path that’s specific to your research and career goals.

Choose the area that stands out to you to jump to that section.

• Online PhD Psychology
• Online PhD Behavioral Psychology
• Online PhD Child & Adolescent Psychology
• Online PhD Clinical Psychology
• Online PhD Educational Psychology
• Online PhD Forensic Psychology
• Online PhD Organizational Psychology
• Online PhD School Psychology

Each of these related subject areas can help prepare you for a different career path.

Online PhD in Psychology

A generalist degree in psychology can be applied in many domains. You may choose this path if you want a degree that can serve you well in varied positions or fields.

This may also be a good option if you don’t feel like any specialty doctoral programs are particularly suitable for your career goals and would prefer to customize your own course of study.

During your studies, you will likely take classes in statistics; the mathematics and analysis skills that you learn there can help prepare you to conduct reliable research.

The courses in generalist psychology degrees cover a variety of psychology disciplines. Topics may include epigenetics, neuroscience, memory, cognition, and developmental psychology.

A psychology PhD can help equip you with leadership and research skills that are useful in a variety of career settings. For example, you might work as a school administrator, a behavior analyst, or a marketing manager.

Online PhD in Behavioral Psychology

If you’re interested in why people make the choices they do and how thoughts and behavior influence one another, then consider making behavioral psychology your field of study.

This degree gives students opportunities to research behavior analysis and learn about motivating others to change their patterns of action.

You will likely take classes that specifically focus on the field of applied behavior analysis. Other courses may cover related topics like addiction, language development, education, child development, or self-control. You may also learn about the history of psychology and behavior analysis.

This program may be offered as a licensure track to help prepare to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

After earning your online PhD in Behavioral Psychology, you may be able to conduct research in behavior analysis, supervise a team of behavior analysts or work directly with clients who have autism or developmental delays.

Online PhD in Child & Adolescent Psychology

Working with kids and teens sometimes requires different skills and communication techniques than those needed when working with adults.

To expand your abilities to work with youths or conduct research among this age group, you’ll want to focus your studies on child and adolescent psychology.

Your classes will likely address developmental psychology and psychotherapy techniques to use when working with children and families. You may discuss how childhood crises like abuse and loss can have psychological effects throughout youth and beyond.

Related classes may cover how psychological principles can be applied in the juvenile correctional system and other difficult situations. You may complete a clinical internship in a child psychology facility.

This degree program may lead to licensure so that you can become a certified child or family psychologist. This career path can help you provide life-changing therapy services for youths in troubled situations.

Serious mental illness can make life challenging, but clinical psychologists can provide help and support. Whether you choose to conduct research in this field or work directly with patients, you can help people work through their struggles.

Common studies in this degree include developmental psychology and psychotherapy techniques. The courses are typically designed to address counseling ethics and improve clinical skills, like interviewing patients and conducting assessments.

Most programs require students to complete a year-long clinical internship for this degree; this component can help thoroughly prepare you for licensure.

Clinical psychologists often work directly with patients, particularly those with serious mental illnesses or behavior disorders. As you provide therapy, you may also conduct research projects and publish your findings.

You may choose to focus your clinical practice on a particular domain, such as health psychology or cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Online PhD in Educational Psychology

If you’re interested in furthering the science of learning, then a PhD in Educational Psychology may provide the foundation that you need. This branch of psychology deals with how people learn and how learning can be measured.

Common coursework in this doctoral program addresses educational theory and instructional methods. You should also study human development during childhood or throughout the lifespan.

To help you succeed in the realm of education, it may be important to cover topics like learning assessment, program analysis, and organizational leadership. You may also learn how to teach psychology to students.

A degree in educational psychology can help prepare you to lead institutions of learning. Some programs are geared toward working with adult learners, so you might do well as a college administrator.

You may also choose to work as a researcher who contributes toward a better understanding of how people assimilate new information.

Online PhD in Forensic Psychology

Did you ever consider going into law instead of pursuing a psychology career? You can bring those two interests together with a doctoral program in forensic psychology. This discipline addresses psychology topics and issues that relate to law, criminal justice, and corrections.

Experts in forensic psychology need to be well-versed in abnormal development and behavior. Students of forensic psychology study tough topics like violence, terrorism, and arson.

Your studies may prepare you to deliver expert testimony, counsel offenders, support law enforcement officers, or carry out hostage negotiations. Helping people cope with the effects of criminal or violent acts may be another focus of your doctoral work.

As a leader in forensic psychology, you may be hired by a criminal justice organization or serve as a consultant. For example, you might coach witnesses, teach police officers how to respond in crises or work with criminal offenders.

Online PhD in Organizational Psychology

Psychological principles can be greatly influential in the business world. Earning a PhD in Organizational Psychology can help you become a leader in the business world. This program can also be known as a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.

The curriculum for this doctorate may include both business and psychology classes. This doctorate focuses on organizational behavior and is designed to help students learn how to lead teams through change and navigate group behavior.

Other courses may address applying management techniques, motivating employees, conducting assessments, and compensating employees. You may be able to select a particular specialty for this doctoral program; options may include human resources or global business.

I/O professionals often hold leadership positions in businesses and other organizations. You could potentially assume a high level of responsibility in a human resources or project management department.

Alternatively, you might provide consulting services to organizations to help them improve morale or productivity.

Online PhD in School Psychology

Classroom teachers aren’t the only educational professionals who can have a significant influence on young learners. School psychologists also play an important role in students’ growth and learning, especially for students who struggle in a traditional classroom environment.

This program typically includes classes in learning and cognition, childhood development, and behavior disorders. Becoming familiar with conducting assessments, identifying delays, and strategizing interventions can help you succeed in a school setting.

You will probably need to complete an internship, which may last around one year. Individual states set regulations about licensure for school psychologists, so it’s important to select a program that aligns with your state’s requirements.

As a school psychologist, you’ll probably pursue employment in a school system. Your responsibilities may include supporting students in the special education program. Other career options include working as a researcher or an educational consultant.

Courses for an Online PhD in Psychology

As a doctoral student, your curriculum may be uniquely suited to your specialization and interests. There may be core courses in your degree in psychology online that you are required to take as well as the opportunity to select electives of your choice. Example classes are listed below.

Cognitive Neuroscience – Studies in neuroscience address the relationship between the nervous system and behavior. Topics typically covered include memory, reasoning, and decision-making and how neurons, whether individually or as a group, become encoded.

Developmental Psychology – This course provides an overview of human development and the psychological changes that occur over a lifetime. Areas of study may include language development and social maturation.

Learning Theories – A class on learning can help you understand how people acquire information and retain it in their memories. Your studies may focus on young learners, adult learners, or a combination.

Psychology and Culture – This course explores the field of cultural psychology. The topics may include how humans internalize their culture of origin and how an individual’s culture shapes thoughts and actions.

Psychology Instruction – Once you have your PhD, you may want to work as a professor, so this course can help equip you with tools for teaching college students. It can help you learn how to conduct yourself in a classroom setting and how to build meaningful connections that will help students learn. You may complete a teaching practicum.

Psychopathology – This course provides an overview of mental and behavioral disorders. You may learn about identifying these disorders and providing effective therapies.

Research Methods – PhD programs are research-focused, so taking classes on research methods can help you sharpen your skills as a researcher. These classes can help you learn how to design studies, produce reliable results, and analyze the data.

In many programs, especially those of a clinical nature, you can expect to spend a year or more in practicum and internship settings. Your doctoral program is likely to include a research project or a dissertation as well.

What’s the Difference between a PsyD and PhD in Psychology?

A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a professional doctorate for acquiring practical knowledge and skills for providing clinical services. Students in PsyD online programs spend significant time in practicum and internship settings to gain as much hands-on practice as possible.

Choosing this approach for your studies can help prepare you to provide psychological services to patients in individual or group settings.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is a research-focused program. Although you may still complete internships in the psychology field, they may not be until close to the end of your studies. Instead, you’ll likely spend more time on research skills, statistics, and data analysis.

If you have your sights set on a full-time career in research or academia, this is typically the right educational path to select. Becoming licensed may be a possibility, but only some PhD in Psychology programs are licensure tracks.

Ultimately, the difference between PsyD vs. PhD comes down to the type of career you want to pursue in the psychology sector.

What’s the Difference between a PhD Psychology and a PhD Counseling Psychology Online?

A PhD in Psychology is a general program that can give you insight into human thought and behavior. A generalist psychology degree is often a non-licensure track.

It can be useful for those who want to teach psychology at the college level, become researchers, use their psychology knowledge in business or organizational leadership, or serve as consultants.

For those who want to work directly with clients, a PhD in Counseling Psychology may offer a path to licensure. This degree program typically includes classes on counseling practices, group therapy, abnormal development, and psychological assessments.

You will probably have to engage in a lengthy internship experience as well. If you want to see patients in private practice or as a member of a healthcare team, it’s a good idea to choose a PhD in Counseling Psychology, a PhD in Clinical Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology program.

PhD in Psychology Job Outlook and Salary

Psychology is a growing field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 3% growth rate for psychologist positions for the next ten years. This job category includes clinical, counseling, school, and industrial-organizational psychologists as well as other specialists in this field.

Earning your doctorate may qualify you to seek licensure, apply for a promotion, or move to a different organization. An increase in pay may accompany those changes.

Professional Organizations for those with a PhD in Psychology

Whether they conduct research, lead organizations, or work with clients, psychology professionals can benefit from the support of others in the field. Membership in a professional organization can provide opportunities to learn from others and grow your skills.

• American Psychological Association – APA is open to all who work in the field of psychology, including those in clinical practice and academia. Membership benefits include access to a psychology news app and an exclusive journal as well as discounts on professional resources.
• American Psychiatric Association – Also known as APA, this organization is for practicing psychiatrists and those who teach or conduct research in this field. Membership benefits include access to print and online publications, discounts on industry resources, and free continuing education classes.
• Association for Psychological Science – APS advocates for psychological research and practice to be based on a strong scientific foundation. Researchers, clinicians, teachers, and other psychology professionals are welcome to join. Members are sent digital and print newsletters and journals. Plus, they can access a job board and may want to attend the organization’s conventions.
• National Association of School Psychologists – NASP advocates for policies and practices that benefit students’ safety, health, and academic success. Members are invited to join some of the organization’s interest-based subgroups and have access to newsletters, journals, and downloadable handouts.
• Society for Neuroscience – SfN provides professional support and public advocacy for the neuroscience community. If you work in neuroscience, you may want to join the group for career resources, free and discounted publications, and reduced costs for the organization’s annual meeting.

Membership benefits vary from one organization to the next. To try out a group membership without committing to the full registration fee, consider enrolling during your doctoral program. It’s common for professional associations to offer discounted student memberships to people who are in school.

Certification and Licensure Following a Doctoral Psychology Program

Not all psychology PhDs pursue licensure, but it’s an important step for those who plan to engage in clinical practice. The following overview can provide a general idea of the steps you’ll need to take.

• Enroll in a doctoral degree program. Choose a licensure PhD track — perhaps at a school that is accredited by the American Psychological Association.
• Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and any other tests required by your state.
• Earn clinical hours. While you may be able to earn some of these during school, many will have to be acquired during your postdoc period.
• After finishing your degree, passing required tests and earning professional hours, apply for licensure with your state.

Each state sets its own licensure regulations; consult your state’s board to learn more about the specific steps that you’ll need to take. It’s also important to choose a program that complies with your state’s licensure requirements.

Accreditation for an Online PhD in Psychology

You’ll likely put a lot of time and money into earning your PhD in Psychology. It’s important that you receive a reputable degree in exchange for all that work. That’s why you should always make sure that your university holds proper accreditation.

Regional accreditation is one important distinction to consider. Any school focused on delivering quality academics will have applied for regional accreditation. Accrediting bodies grant this recognition to schools that consistently provide good learning experiences and opportunities for their students.

To ensure that your college meets this standard, look for accreditation from:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Without regional accreditation, you have no guarantee of receiving a quality education. Your degree probably won’t mean much to employers or other schools.

For a doctoral program in psychology, it’s sometimes advised to look for schools that are also accredited by the American Psychological Association .

According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education, APA has the authority to determine whether psychology programs meet industry standards and thoroughly prepare students for clinical practice and other psychology careers.

APA accreditation may not be essential if you don’t plan to seek licensure. In some states, though, only students with an APA-approved doctorate are eligible to become licensed psychologists.

Financial Aid for PhD in Psychology Students

Doctoral programs are expensive, but financial aid can put a PhD within your grasp.

There are government programs that exist specifically to help students fund their education. These include grants, low-interest loans, and work-study arrangements. You may be able to use both state and federal funding.

To learn about your eligibility for government help, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

As a doctoral student, you may qualify for other types of help as well. Your school may reduce your tuition in exchange for teaching lower-level classes. You may also receive scholarships or fellowships from your college, industry associations, or other community or national organizations.

If you need additional help, look into spreading out your payments. Private loans can make it so you won’t have to pay the full tuition cost right away.

Just keep in mind that private interest rates are usually higher than they are for government loans, so it’s smart to max out other types of financial aid first. You can also ask your school about the possibility of establishing a payment plan.

Questions Related to Earning PhD in Psychology Online

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have in pursuing an online doctorate in psychology.

Can You Do a PhD Online?

Yes, you can do a PhD online. Many schools offer online PhD programs that are reputable, regionally accredited, and comparable to their on-campus counterparts.

Online PhDs are available in a vast number of disciplines, including psychology. Although these programs allow you to take classes and submit coursework online, you may need to complete in-person practicums or internships.

Can You Get a PhD Online in Psychology?

Yes, you can get a PhD online in Psychology. There are a number of colleges that offer online programs for studying psychology at the PhD level.

These programs can help equip you with the in-depth knowledge needed to lead organizations, spearhead change, conduct research, develop new theories, or teach students. Some online PhD in Psychology programs may prepare you for licensure.

Is a PsyD or PhD Better?

Both of these options can be valuable degrees. Which one you should get depends on your career goals. Consider choosing a PsyD if you know you want to be a counseling practitioner. Consider getting a PhD if you enjoy statistics, and your goals include becoming a researcher or a college faculty member.

Are Online PhD Programs Accredited?

You should have no trouble finding an online PhD program with regional accreditation. Accrediting bodies confer this status on online schools just like they do for on-campus programs.

Programmatic accreditation for online psychology programs is harder to come by, though — especially when it comes to APA accreditation. Hybrid programs are more likely to hold APA accreditation than fully online ones.

Are There Any APA Accredited Online PsyD Programs?

Although online PsyD programs are eligible for APA accreditation, just like on-campus programs, the organization has not given lasting accreditation to any fully online programs.

Instead, you may want to look into a hybrid PsyD program so that you can earn some of your credits in a flexible online format.

Is a PhD in Psychology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Psychology worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market in life, physical, and social science is projected to grow by 5% for the next decade. Common careers in this field include school psychologist, forensic psychologist, industrial-organizational psychologist, postsecondary education administrator, and human resources manager.

If you have a keen interest in how people think, act, and develop, then consider soaking up as much knowledge on the topic as you can by enrolling in an online PhD in Psychology program.

Earning your doctorate can help elevate you to expert status in this field and prepare you to teach students, perform original research, and make a significant difference for individuals or organizations. Getting your doctorate may also qualify you to pursue licensure in your state.

Now is the time to apply to online psychology schools. A fulfilling career as a professional psychologist may be waiting for you.

5 Best Online Psychology PhD Programs Top Online Psychology Doctorate

Ready to start your journey.

The best online PhD Psychology programs are available from many top schools across the country. These programs are available to any student who meets the eligibility requirements for the program they have chosen. By choosing an online program, students are able to continue working in their present careers. If they are already established as a behavioral health professional , the online degree programs allow them to continue serving their patients. It’s important to maintain their current employment for as long as possible to show stability and commitment.

With a PhD in Psychology, you will have the ability to return to school as a guidance counselor or educator. Quality education is important for everyone. By earning the highest possible degree, you will be able to choose the career path that you are most passionate about. Finding your career path may involve a little trial and error. Explore your options by signing up for an internship or mentor program. You may be pleasantly surprised at what you learn about certain career paths. Many career paths have unexpected twists and turns that you may not realize until you begin working.

Graduating from one of the best online PhD Psychology programs will open the door to many new opportunities in almost any field when it comes to behavioral health or the development of new teaching materials. New curriculums are essential for keeping the information being taught as up-to-date and current as possible. Whether a graduate prefers to teach students or treat patients, they will have all of the skills and resources they will need to make a positive impact.

Why Should I Consider an Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology?

Psychology is a very broad and diverse field. There are many different types of PhD Psychology degrees that can be earned through an online learning platform.

The field of psychology is a captivating and ever-evolving discipline, offering a wide range of opportunities for those seeking advanced degrees. With the advent of online learning platforms, pursuing a PhD in Psychology has never been more accessible or convenient.

Gone are the days when individuals had to uproot their lives and relocate to pursue higher education. Online programs now allow aspiring psychologists to study from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming commutes or relocations. This newfound flexibility enables students to maintain their responsibilities while still dedicating themselves fully to their studies.

Online Psychology Programs Provide Accessibility, Support, and Specializations

One of the major advantages of an online program is accessibility. Regardless of where you are located geographically, you can access top-tier education from renowned institutions without having to relocate. This opens up doors for individuals who may not have had the opportunity to pursue their dreams due to distance or other constraints.

Furthermore, online learning platforms provide a wealth of resources and support services that ensure students receive a comprehensive education. From interactive lectures and multimedia materials to virtual simulations and collaborative forums, these platforms offer an engaging learning experience that rivals traditional classroom settings.

Moreover, online programs often offer specialized tracks within psychology that cater to individual interests and career goals. Whether one’s passion lies in clinical psychology, social psychology, or organizational behavior, there is likely an online program tailored specifically for it.

Curriculum – What to Expect with Online PhD Psychology Programs

In terms of curriculum, an online PhD in Psychology covers a wide range of topics that delve deep into various areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, clinical psychology, and more. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of research methodologies, statistical analysis techniques, ethical considerations, and theoretical frameworks that are essential for conducting meaningful research or applying psychological principles in real-world settings.

These programs allow students to delve into various specializations within the field, ranging from clinical psychology to cognitive neuroscience, all from the comfort of their own homes. Online PhD programs in psychology provide a flexible and convenient way to earn a prestigious degree while still maintaining other commitments.

Additional Benefits of Online PhD Programs

The benefits extend beyond convenience and accessibility. Pursuing a PhD in Psychology online allows individuals to tap into an expansive network of experts from around the globe. Through virtual conferences, webinars, and discussion boards, students can connect with leading professionals in various subfields of psychology, opening doors for research collaborations and career opportunities.

Moreover, an online PhD program provides a unique opportunity for networking and collaboration with professionals from around the world. Through virtual classrooms, discussion forums, and collaborative projects, you can engage with fellow students and experts in the field, enhancing your learning experience and building valuable connections that can benefit your future career.

Additionally, many online programs offer opportunities for hands-on experience through internships or practicum placements. These practical components allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios under supervision while gaining invaluable practical skills that will set you apart from others in the field.

Furthermore, earning an online PhD demonstrates dedication and commitment to furthering your expertise. It signals to potential employers or clients that you have gone above and beyond to acquire advanced knowledge and skills, making you a valuable asset in the competitive field of psychology.

Are There Different Types of Online PhD Psychology Degrees?

An online PhD in Psychology offers a flexible and accessible pathway to achieving your career goals in this dynamic field. Whether you aspire to become a research psychologist or work in applied settings, this advanced degree equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed. Embrace the opportunity to learn from renowned institutions, collaborate with professionals worldwide, and gain practical experience that will set you apart.

Some specializations for an online doctorate in psychology include:

• Organizational Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Child & Adolescent Psychology
• Online PhD Clinical Psychology
• Online PhD Behavioral Psychology
• Online PhD School Psychology
• Online PhD Educational Psychology
• Counseling Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Industrial organizational psychology
• Integrative health psychology
• Human development
• Human and organizational psychology
• Behavioral neuroscience

What Courses Are Required for an Online PhD in Psychology?

Online PhD in Psychology, required courses, curriculum, psychology specialization, research methods, statistics, advanced theories and concepts.

When pursuing an online PhD in Psychology, it is important to understand the required courses that make up the curriculum. These courses are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field and prepare them for advanced research and practice in psychology.

One of the key components of any online PhD program in Psychology is a strong foundation in research methods and statistics. These courses equip students with the necessary skills to design and conduct empirical studies, analyze data using statistical techniques, and interpret findings.

Additionally, students can expect to delve into advanced theories and concepts within their chosen specialization area. Whether it be clinical psychology, developmental psychology, or social psychology – these courses allow students to explore cutting-edge research and apply theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios.

A few of the courses required for an online PhD in Psychology include:

• Attitudes and Social Judgment
• Neuroscience
• Statistical Modeling
• Cognitive Thinking
• Developmental Psychology
• Advanced Research Methods

While specific course requirements may vary between universities offering an online psychology doctoral degree, it is common for students to complete coursework related to ethics in psychological research as well as professional development seminars.

Overall, pursuing an online PhD in Psychology requires dedication and a commitment to deepening one’s knowledge within the field. By completing required courses such as research methods, statistics, and specialized topics within their chosen area of focus – graduates are equipped with the expertise needed for successful careers as psychologists or academics.

PsyD vs PhD in Psychology?

A PhD is trained to be more analytical and research-minded, while a PsyD is normally more patient-oriented and tends to be more clinical in their thought processes. Both are valuable degrees, but the one you choose will depend greatly on whether or not you want to treat patients or work in a research setting. When it comes to a counseling degree, graduates are given instruction on how to counsel and treat patients who need assistance dealing with different types of behavioral and psychological disorders.

What Certifications and Licensures Are Needed?

Depending on what profession you are entering, the different types of certifications may vary. If you plan on working directly with patients, you will have to pass all of the necessary licensing requirements to practice medicine as a Psychologist or a Psychiatrist. This usually includes a State Board Exam that is overseen by the American Psychological Association .

Accreditation is important if you want to make sure you are receiving a quality education. Regional and National accreditation address the quality of education provided by the college or university. While these two types of accreditation are somewhat different, their goals are intrinsically the same. Specialized accreditation focuses on the value of a specific degree program.

Professional Organizations

While there are many professional degree programs that you can join, the APA or American Psychological Association is the most well-known. Other professional organizations include:

• APS – Association for Psychological Science
• NASP – National Association of School Psychologists
• PSI CHI – The National Honor Society in Psychology
• ACA – American Counseling Association
• American Psychiatric Association
• American Board of Professional Psychology

Financial Aid for PhD Psychology Students

Students who are interested in enrolling in a PhD in Psychology program online can apply for financial aid in several forms. They include grants, scholarships, and private student loans. Most grants will provide enough funding that a student may only have to apply once, but scholarships are usually one-time gifts and must be applied for each year.

Common Student Questions –

Can You Get a PhD Online in Psychology?

Students can earn their PhD in Psychology online and in just a few months if they choose an accelerated program. If you already have a master’s degree, it’s easier to get into a doctoral program. Online degree programs offer flexible schedules and the ability to study from any location. An online degree program allows you to continue working in your chosen career while you fulfill all of your educational requirements. You are able to work towards your degree without having to take a leave of absence from your job.

Are Online PhD Programs Accredited?

Online PhD programs must meet the same strict standards as traditional degree programs if they are to be accredited by one of the professional organizations. They must also continue to apply for accredited status and be able to provide the highest quality curriculums and coursework that will be needed for students to meet or exceed the licensing and certification programs they will need to pass to become professionals in their field. Both the schools and the degree programs are eligible to earn accredited status.

At the very least, schools should be accredited by a regional body like the Colleges and schools commission. Online accredited programs (including doctoral programs) are accepted by most states for licensure.

Is a PsyD or PhD Better?

Both PsyD and PhD degrees hold value. Deciding which one is better will be dependent on what your ultimate career goals are. If you earn a PhD, or doctor of philosophy degree, you will be more inclined to teach students and find work in a research or lab setting. You are more interested in developing new concepts, curriculums, and performing research to further the study of the field.

If you choose a PsyD in Psychology, you are more inclined toward working with patients and helping them find solutions to the concerns and behavioral health issues they may have. This type of degree allows you to work hands-on with your patients. You will work in a more clinical setting where treatment options are developed and utilized to help patients overcome their behavioral, cognitive, and mental health issues.

Are There Any APA-Accredited Online PsyD Programs?

There are many APA accredited online PsyD programs to choose from. To qualify for this type of accreditation, online degree programs must meet or exceed the standards of the association and commit to a high level of academic excellence. In order to maintain this accreditation, the degree programs must be self-monitored and continually maintained to the highest possible standards.

How Much Can I Make with a Doctorate in Psychology?

The overall outlook for psychology is good, especially when you consider the continued need for ongoing mental health care. Entry-level positions can expect to earn around $45,000 to $50,000 for the first few years. The median salary for clinical and counseling psychologists who have been practicing for five to ten years is approximately $105,000 or more a year. Professionals who have been working in the field for longer than ten to fifteen years may be able to make as much as $130,000 or more each year on average.

Some career options include:

• Clinical psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• International psychology/Multicultural psychology

The more education and experience you have will have a dramatic impact on your earning potential and ability to explore new employment opportunities. Psychology professionals can set their own prices if they choose to work in private practice and have their own office. At this point, you will be in charge of your own value and can create a very lucrative career for yourself.

Choosing the Best Online Psychology Doctoral Programs

The following institutions meet College Consensus standards for quality, including accreditation and value. They are presented in alphabetical order.

1. California Institute of Integral Studies

The California Institute of Integral Studies offers its students the best online PhD Psychology programs. Students have an opportunity to learn advanced concepts and skills they will need to work in a behavioral health setting. They can choose to specialize in a specific field of study or they can choose a general topic of study where they can excel. By earning an online PhD in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology, graduates are able to work within a very diverse, but productive environment.

The California Institute of Integral Studies is a leader in its field when it comes to quality online degree programs. The school is well-known for both diversity and intellectual engagement that allows students to explore new opportunities for advancement. Classes are taught by award-winning faculty members who have years of experience and are well-known for their many accomplishments. Graduates are able to set career goals and take advantage of opportunities in many different fields within behavioral health care.

Degree: PhD in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology

2. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers the best online PhD Psychology programs for students who want to take advantage of every opportunity for advancement. With this advanced degree, students are able to perform research, complete evaluations, and create complicated treatment plans. Earning an online PhD in Psychology with over 10+ available concentrations is the best way to complete their education and further their career in whatever direction they choose.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is well-known for providing the highest quality degree programs for students who want to succeed in their chosen career fields. While the school focuses on networking and field experience, it also gives students the advantage when it comes to advancing their careers. Graduates are able to continue to build on their experience while they take their classes using one of the most advanced online learning platforms available. The school takes great pride in being able to offer state-of-the-art concepts using the very latest technology.

Degree: Psychology PhD – 10+ concentrations

3. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University offers the best online Psychology PhD programs to its students. The degree programs offered by the school provide the necessary skills and abilities that are necessary for working in the field of behavioral health. Students who pursue an online PhD in Clinical Psychology will have every advantage when it comes to being able to continue with their chosen career. Once they have graduated, they will be able to advance to the highest position in their field, be it management, doctor, or educator.

Fielding Graduate University is a leader in the field of advanced, post-graduate studies. The university offers valuable resources to go along with its online degree programs so students can continue to explore new career opportunities long after they graduate. Students also have access to professional faculty members who are able to offer insight into how they can better serve the people they work with. Using an online degree program, they can combine their careers with their education to build a future that will have an impact on others.

Degree: PhD in Clinical Psychology

4. Liberty University

Liberty University offers the best online PhD programs in Psychology for students who have an interest in taking their education to the highest possible level. Online degree programs make it possible for individuals who are already established in the behavioral health field to return to school to complete their education without having to close their practice. With the best online PhD programs in Psychology, graduates are able to explore new opportunities and expand on their career options.

For over 50 years, Liberty University has prided itself on the three A’s. Affordability, accessibility, and academic quality are the three standards by which the university works to guide its students. As a faith-based school of higher learning, the university offers students the educational programs they can count on to build a brighter future. With the online platform, they are able to achieve all of their goals and more. They can also choose specializations that will allow them to take their careers in a different direction.

Degree: Ph.D. in Psychology

5. Northcentral University

Northcentral University offers the best online PhD Psychology programs for graduate students who want to finalize their education. With an online degree program, the student can maintain a full work schedule, care for their families, and attend their classes without disrupting the flow of any one of them. With a PhD in Psychology, students are able to achieve their career goals and take on more responsibility than ever before. They will be able to thrive in their chosen career and even expand their horizons to include other career options.

Northcentral University has provided quality educational programs for the past 25 years. Their online learning platform is able to provide students from across the world with an education they can be proud of. All of the programs are fully accredited and guaranteed to provide each student with the best possible education. Professional faculty members work to not only provide instruction, but also guidance and support that a student will need as they complete their education.

Degree: PhD in Psychology

Related Rankings:

5 Best Online Psychology Doctorate

10 Highest Paying Jobs in Psychology

Top 10 Degrees in Demand

Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

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Curious about human behavior, group dynamics, and abnormal psychology? A psychology degree sheds light on our social and emotional world. But if you want to become a psychologist, you’ll need a doctorate.

An online Ph.D. in psychology can prepare you for careers in counseling psychology, clinical psychology, school psychology, and other specialties. And an online learning format makes it easier to reach your educational goals. Learn how to choose a program and launch your career as a psychologist.

Why Get an Online Ph.D. in Psychology?

• An online Ph.D. in psychology can qualify you for the title of psychologist in various specializations.
• Many psychology careers boast high median salaries.
• You can get a Ph.D. in psychology online from a great school, even if you live far away.
• Some institutions charge online learners in-state tuition rates, regardless of where they live.
• Asynchronous coursework makes it easy to schedule coursework around professional and personal responsibilities.

Did You Know?

Check out our featured online psychology programs, does accreditation matter for online ph.d. programs in psychology.

Accreditation matters when earning an online doctoral degree in psychology. That’s because you’ll have a better chance at landing an internship during your doctoral program if you attend an accredited program.

What’s more, states require psychologists to graduate from an accredited program to apply for licensure.

Here’s how college accreditation works: Independent accrediting agencies evaluate colleges and universities. They research student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic standards.

Programs within a university can also apply for accreditation from specialized agencies dedicated to the field. You can look up accreditation for a school or program.

When researching Ph.D. programs in psychology, look for programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). These programs meet the highest standards for training psychologists.

While APA does not accredit online-only programs , it does accredit hybrid programs and Ph.D. programs with some online coursework. APA’s accredited program database provides more information on accredited doctoral programs in psychology.

Top Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology Programs

Keiser university-ft lauderdale.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $19,808
• Out-of-state $19,808
• Retention Rate 60%
• Acceptance Rate 97%
• Students Enrolled 20,330
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 48%
• Accreditation Yes

Liberty University

• In-State $14,791
• Out-of-state $14,791
• Retention Rate 81%
• Acceptance Rate 50%
• Students Enrolled 93,349
• Percent Online Enrollment 93%

Saybrook University

• In-State $0
• Out-of-state $0
• Retention Rate 0%
• Acceptance Rate 0%
• Students Enrolled 785
• Percent Online Enrollment 100%

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles

• In-State $11,160
• Out-of-state $11,160
• Acceptance Rate 24%
• Students Enrolled 3,131
• Percent Online Enrollment 90%

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses trusted data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools based on quality, affordability, and reputation.

When rankings schools, we look at factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition and other costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

This list is from 2023. To learn more, consult our school rankings methodology.

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. in Psychology Cost?

An online doctorate in psychology generally costs anywhere from $50,000-$200,000.

Ultimately, how much you spend on your degree will depend on factors such as:

• Whether you pursue a Ph.D. in psychology (which usually lasts 4-7 years) or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) (which takes roughly 4-6 years)
• Whether you qualify for any in-state tuition discounts
• Whether you attend a public or private institution
• How much financial aid you get

Be sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — with this, you can qualify for federal grants and loans. You could also qualify for institutional scholarships.

If possible, try to prioritize fully funded doctoral psychology programs.

In addition to tuition and required fees, you’ll need to budget for a good-quality laptop, reliable internet access, and any extra technology or distance-learner fees.

You’ll also need to pay for your state license and exam fees once you complete your program.

How Much Can You Make With an Online Psychology Ph.D.?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists earn a median salary of $92,740 per year . The highest-paid psychologists work in government agencies and hospitals.

Your specialization can affect how much you earn. For example, industrial-organizational psychologists earn a median annual salary of over $147,000, whereas child psychologists earn a much lower median salary, closer to $60,000.

Your location can also impact your earning potential as a psychologist. BLS data shows that Oregon and California offer some of the highest average salaries for psychologists.

Sources: BLS , Payscale

How to Become a Psychologist: 6-Step Guide

Becoming a psychologist requires years of graduate-level education and postdoctoral training. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to start your career as a psychologist.

Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree

Your journey toward a career in psychology begins with a bachelor’s degree. You’ll need a bachelor’s to apply to graduate programs in psychology.

A psychology degree offers a strong foundation for graduate-level study. You can also choose a specialized degree like industrial-organizational psychology or opt for a degree in a related mental health field such as social work .

Many majors — including in the humanities, the social sciences, education, and human services — can prepare you for psychology careers.

Step 2: Choose a Specialization

What kind of psychologist do you want to become? Are you interested in counseling roles or positions in education? Are you drawn to research topics or clinical practice?

Choosing a specialization early can help you find the best program to reach your goals.

Common psychology specializations include:

• Clinical psychology
• Counseling psychology
• Forensic psychology
• Behavioral psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Industrial-organizational psychology
• School psychology
• Health psychology

Step 3: Compare Online Doctoral Degrees in Psychology

Next, research online doctoral programs. Some psychologists move straight from a bachelor’s degree into a doctoral program, whereas others earn a master’s in psychology to strengthen their skills before applying to an online psychology Ph.D. program.

When researching graduate psychology programs, make sure to check the university’s accreditation status and the program’s accreditation.

As you compare programs, check whether they offer a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. Both degrees are doctorates in psychology, but a Ph.D. emphasizes research while a Psy.D. emphasizes practice.

You can earn a psychologist license and qualify for most roles with either degree. That said, a Ph.D. generally leads to academic and research roles, whereas a Psy.D. leads to clinical roles.

Consider as well your budget for a doctorate. Costs will vary depending on the program. Look into fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to lower costs.

Step 4: Earn a Doctorate in Psychology

Earning your doctorate in psychology takes a minimum of four years for a Psy.D. and up to seven years for a Ph.D.

During that time, you’ll take psychology courses and work closely with your faculty advisor to develop a dissertation project. You’ll also conduct research and gain clinical skills.

At the end of your online psychology Ph.D., you’ll defend your dissertation. Psy.D. programs may not require dissertation defense, but you will have to write one.

Common Courses in a Ph.D. in Psychology Online Program

• Advanced Qualitative Analysis
• Behavioral Assessment
• Clinical Practicum
• Developmental Psychology
• Ethics and Legal Issues
• Multivariate Statistics
• Psychobiology
• Psychopathology
• Survey Construction and Administration

Step 5: Fulfill Supervised Training Requirements

Before receiving your psychologist license, you’ll need to meet supervised training requirements.

Each state sets its own requirements, which you can meet during your doctorate or after graduating. For example, Washington state requires 3,300 hours of supervised experience, with the option to complete up to 1,500 hours after graduation.

Many psychologists complete this requirement as part of their doctoral program. Programs incorporate practicums, internships, and other supervised training opportunities. In some states, you can also meet supervised experience requirements through a postdoc or postgraduate internship.

Check the licensing requirements in your state for more information.

Step 6: Apply for Licensure

The final step to becoming a psychologist is to apply for a state license.

In many states, the Board of Psychology issues these licenses. Typically, you’ll need a doctorate in psychology from an accredited program, supervised experience, and passing scores on a licensure exam.

Aspiring psychologists in all states must take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). You may have to take additional exams, depending on what state you live in. For example, most states require a state jurisprudence exam, which tests applicants on their knowledge of state laws applicable to psychology practice.

Exam and licensure costs vary by state. In New York, you’ll pay $294 for your initial license , while in Pennsylvania it costs $105 for an initial license and $300 to renew your license.

Q&A With a Real Psychologist and a Psychology Student

Q: why did you decide to pursue a career in psychology.

“I have always had a strong passion for helping others, and this drive led me to this field. It was after working as a behavior specialist doing in-home behavioral therapy that solidified my decision to pursue a career in psychology.”

“I wanted to ease people’s suffering and make sure there were supports in place for those who needed them. Moreover, I had negative experiences with the mental health system as an adolescent, and I wanted to ensure that those experiences weren’t repeated for other people.”

Q: In your opinion, what is the value of earning a doctorate in psychology?

“You are in a position to help individuals and our larger society. Along with providing direct treatment, you have credentials that allow you to advocate for systematic changes. You can advocate in a variety of ways, such as through assessments, creating community-based programs, and activism in legal arenas.”

“If I chose to do a master’s program, I don’t believe I would have had as many opportunities, and master’s-level clinicians tend to not make as much as doctorate-level clinicians/providers.”

Q: Why did you choose to earn a Psy.D. instead of a Ph.D. in psychology?

“I chose a Psy.D. program as opposed to a Ph.D. as my program really emphasizes putting what we learn in classes to practice in our practicum sites. I also did not want to attend a program so heavily focused on research.”

“I didn’t just look at program types, but also at the faculty I wanted to work with. Both types of programs can offer similar training experiences, but having the right mentor whose research or interests aligns with yours is a key part of a successful graduate school experience.”

Q: What is something that surprised you about your psychology program or the field of psychology?

“How much we don’t know! While the field is improving on its ability to replicate research and evaluate treatment effectiveness, we don’t fully understand how and why individuals react, or don’t react, to popular interventions.”

“As a trainee, I was shocked to see what goes into being a great practitioner and having only a fraction of the work put in get rewarded. This is a selfless job and career, and the needs of those we help must always be a priority.”

Q: What is your biggest piece of advice to those who want to become psychologists?

“Listen to the people who come to you for assistance and be mindful of social and political influences on mental wellness. Many individuals will not benefit from standardized interventions, particularly those from historically oppressed communities. We need to listen when people tell us what is, or is not, working for them and be open to other ways of healing.”

“Impostor syndrome is REAL! There will be many times in your training that you feel like you don’t belong or that you’re not as good as those around you, but this is not true! You belong in this field and are just as good as anyone around you — just don’t forget the reasons why you’re here!”

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs in Psychology

What can i do with an online ph.d. in psychology.

An online Ph.D. in psychology from an accredited program meets the requirements for a psychologist license. That means you can work in roles such as counseling psychologist, school psychologist, or clinical psychologist.

With a doctorate in psychology, you can also pursue academic and research careers. Most universities require a doctorate for tenure-track professor jobs.

Before applying to online psychology programs, check the program’s accreditation status. Only accredited programs meet the requirements psychology licensure and employment.

Is an online doctoral degree in psychology credible?

Yes, an accredited online doctoral degree in psychology meets the same high standards as those of traditional degrees. Accreditation agencies regularly review programs to ensure they follow the best practices for training psychologists.

Employers also respect online degrees from accredited institutions. Many online universities issue the same diplomas to online and in-person students, indicating that the delivery method does not impact the quality of the degree.

How long does it take to earn a Ph.D. in psychology?

Earning a Ph.D. in psychology generally takes 5-7 years. During that time, psychology doctoral students complete coursework, attend practicums and internships, and conduct research. Doctoral programs also require a dissertation, which doctoral candidates must defend to earn their Ph.D.

Psychologists can practice with a Psy.D. as well. This doctoral degree emphasizes practice and typically requires 4-6 years. During a Psy.D. program, you’ll complete coursework, write your dissertation, and gain hands-on experience through supervised practicums and internships.

What is the main difference between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in psychology?

A Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in psychology are both doctoral degrees; however, the Psy.D. emphasizes practice and prepares graduates for careers in clinical settings, whereas the Ph.D. focuses on research and typically leads to roles in academia or research.

You can become a psychologist with a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. — both degrees meet the requirements for a psychologist license. If you’re interested in academic career paths, a Ph.D. makes the most sense, while a Psy.D. makes more sense if you want to work in a clinical capacity.

Can psychologists specialize?

Yes, psychologists can specialize. At the graduate level, psychology students typically choose a specialty, such as clinical psychology, school psychology, or counseling psychology.

Other popular specializations include educational psychology, health psychology, behavioral psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology.

After choosing a specialty, you’ll take focused courses and complete hands-on training in clinical settings related to that specialty. Choosing a specialty early on can help you find the right doctoral program for you.

All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team .

Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

Online Ph.D. programs provide students with flexible schedules and affordable tuition. Check out the top-ranked programs in this comprehensive guide.

Best Online Psychology Courses and Programs of 2024

Best Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology Programs

Shape your future with an online degree.

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

The Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Are you ready to discover your college program?

A Ph.D in psychology prepares graduates for careers as licensed psychologists, research psychologists, and psychology professors. Doctoral students examine human behavior, social interactions, and mental health treatments. The degree also incorporates practical training through a supervised internship or practicum, helping students develop the skills needed for careers in psychology.

With a psychology degree , graduates can work many different psychology jobs . For example, psychologists earn a median annual salary of over $92,740, and a doctorate meets the requirements for most careers in this field.

Our list includes the top psychology programs offering some online coursework. It is important to note that while several doctorate in psychology programs offer online courses, there are no fully online psychology doctoral programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). Thus, rather than ranking schools, we list these programs alphabetically to help prospective applicants find the program that best matches their needs.

This article also explores the differences between Ph.D. and Psy.D. degrees, common courses and specialization options, and careers for graduates who earn doctorates in psychology.

Featured Online Schools

The best doctoral psychology programs available online, california southern university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $0
• Out-of-state $0
• Retention Rate 0%
• Acceptance Rate 0%
• Students Enrolled 0
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 0%
• Accreditation No

Fielding Graduate University

• Students Enrolled 981
• Percent Online Enrollment 96%
• Accreditation Yes

Southern California Seminary

• In-State $15,588
• Out-of-state $15,588
• Retention Rate 100%
• Students Enrolled 176
• Percent Online Enrollment 74%

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

• In-State $10,992
• Out-of-state $10,992
• Students Enrolled 1,307
• Percent Online Enrollment 10%

Touro University Worldwide

• In-State $14,400
• Out-of-state $14,400
• Retention Rate 71%
• Students Enrolled 1,940
• Percent Online Enrollment 98%

Best Online Doctorate

Online doctorate in psychology programs ranking guidelines.

We selected these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

What Is an Online Ph.D. in Psychology?

Doctoral degrees in psychology cannot be conducted completely online. However, some programs do make some coursework available to learners online, helping them complete their graduate studies from anywhere.

The typical curricula for a Ph.D. in psychology emphasizes research and prepares graduates for academic and research roles. Doctoral students take courses in research design and methods, psychology statistics, and cognitive development. Ph.D. programs also offer specialized coursework in neuroscience and affective science.

A Ph.D. in psychology builds strong research and analytical skills. In addition to coursework, each doctoral student must pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research within their specialization. The degree culminates in an original doctoral dissertation that contributes to the field of psychology. After graduation, professionals with Ph.D. degrees in psychology typically work as psychology professors or researchers.

Earning a Ph.D in psychology typically takes 5-7 years, depending on the program and whether the doctoral student completes an internship. Applicants generally need a master’s degree in psychology and a strong GPA to gain admission. Some Ph.D. programs in psychology offer fellowships and other forms of funding for doctoral students.

What Is an Online Psy.D. in Psychology?

As with the online Ph.D. in psychology, an online Psy.D. in psychology refers to a doctorate in psychology program where some but not all coursework is offered online. A Psy.D. degree trains graduates for clinical roles and licensure as psychologists. Common courses include psychology research methods, psychopharmacology, and psychological testing. Doctoral students also examine research in evidence-based practice. Online Psy.D. programs also incorporate supervised internships to strengthen clinical skills.

Within a Psy.D. program, graduate students focus on specialty areas such as counseling psychology, child psychology , or behavioral psychology. After completing coursework requirements and passing a comprehensive examination, doctoral candidates conduct clinical research in their specialization areas. Degree-seekers analyze clinical problems or examine topics based on original research, then write research-based dissertations.

Earning a Psy.D. typically takes 4-6 years for full-time students. Some programs offer accelerated or part-time enrollment options. Applicant often need a master’s in psychology to gain admission to a Psy.D. program.

What’s the Difference Between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in Psychology?

At the doctoral level, psychology offers Psy.D. and Ph.D. degrees. The two pathways offer different coursework and prepare graduates for different careers.

A Psy.D. emphasizes clinical training for careers in psychology, while a Ph.D. focuses on research and academic training. Licensed psychologists who work directly with patients often hold Psy.D. degrees, while psychology professors typically have Ph.D. degrees. In addition, a Ph.D. typically takes more time than a Psy.D.; while a Psy.D. can take as little as four years, a Ph.D. often requires 5-7 years.

When comparing Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs, prospective psychologists should consider their professional goals. Those seeking research or academic positions may prefer a Ph.D., while those considering careers as licensed psychologists should pursue Psy.D. degrees.

Choosing an Online Doctoral Psychology Program

When choosing a partially online doctoral program, prospective students must weigh several factors. For many, program cost, specialization options, and program length rank among the most important concerns.

Ph.D. and Psy.D. degrees prepare psychologists for different career paths, so applicants should also consider which degree aligns best with their goals. Candidates should also consider enrollment options, course delivery methods, internship options, and tuition discounts when evaluating partially online doctorates in psychology.

By examining these factors, future psychologists can ensure that they find the best fit for their unique needs and career aspirations.

Accreditation for Online Psychology Degree Programs

Prospective applicants should always research program and university accreditation when choosing a partially online doctorate in psychology. Accredited programs follow best practices for educating psychologists, and only graduates of APA-accredited programs qualify for licensure as psychologists. Applicants should also research other state licensure requirements before choosing a program.

What Else Can I Expect From a Doctoral Psychology Program?

Doctoral-level psychology students take courses in areas like counseling psychology, evidence-based practice, human development, and psychopharmacology. These courses build advanced knowledge and skills in psychology. Doctoral students often further specialize their training by choosing concentrations like clinical psych, school psychology, or developmental psychology.

After completing coursework requirements, doctoral candidates must pass examinations and meet any internship requirements. Most programs also require a research-based doctoral dissertation in the candidate’s specialization.

Common Courses for an Online Doctorate in Psychology

• Child and Adolescent Therapy: In this class, psychology students strengthen their counseling and treatment skills for children and adolescents. The coursework emphasizes clinical practice and diagnostic approaches for professionals in clinical, child, counseling, and school psychology.
• Clinical Supervision and Consultation: Students practice their supervision skills and learn how to oversee less experienced workers in the field. The course also trains psychology graduates for consultation and mediation roles.
• Community Psychology and Social Justice: The course examines psychology during times of social change. Learners explore social justice in a mental health context and its impact on society more broadly.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Doctoral students examine current research in psychology to identify applications in clinical practice. The course covers topics like evaluating evidence and applying practical research.
• Intellectual and Personality Testing: Psychology students learn to administer and interpret personality assessments. The course covers the theoretical foundations of personality testing and how to perform clinical diagnoses based on those tests.
• Psychopharmacology: In this course, doctoral students learn about the human body and its interactions with drugs. The course emphasizes mental health needs, pharmacological approaches to treating mental health issues, and drug abuse and addiction.

Psychology Specializations

Clinical psychology.

A clinical psychology specialty emphasizes mental healthcare and research-based practice. Within clinical psychology, doctoral students specialize in demographics, like child psychology and geriatric mental health. The specialty trains learners to apply psychology research in diverse clinical settings.

Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology examines human growth and development across the lifespan. Doctoral students in this specialty conduct research on childhood development, social and emotional development, and information processing. The specialty prepares graduates for careers in research and academia.

School Psychology

A school psychology specialty emphasizes mental health in young learners. Doctoral students explore learning and behavior, including challenges to academic and social development. These psychologists work with children, families, and schools to help students thrive in education.

Social Psychology

Social psychology examines individual behavior in social settings. This specialty focuses on human interactions and their impact on people’s beliefs and feelings. Social psychologists can apply their skills in several settings, including workplaces.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program?

No psychology doctorate program is fully online, but earning a partially online doctorate in psychology takes around five years, depending on the program. Many Ph.D. programs require at least five years to complete coursework, research, and a dissertation, and some also require an internship. A Psy.D. program typically takes 4-6 years, including internship requirements.

Some programs offer accelerated or part-time options, which can change degree timelines. Enrollees may also complete coursework faster through a self-paced, asynchronous model, though only online courses are offered asynchronously. Because the length varies, prospective doctoral students should be sure to research prospective programs’ requirements and enrollment options before applying.

Psychology Jobs

With a doctorate in psychology, graduates can pursue careers as psychologists and psychology professors. In these career paths, psychologists can conduct research, educate students, and provide clinical services. A psychology doctorate also prepares graduates for supervisory roles, such as healthcare executive.

Other psychology careers include school or educational psychologist, industrial-organizational (I/O) psychologist, and clinical social worker. This section explores common psychology jobs, including the earning potential, licensure requirements, and projected job growth for each career.

Postsecondary Psychology Teachers

Postsecondary psychology teachers, also known as psychology professors, teach at the college level. They educate undergraduate and graduate students on different topics in psychology, including research, behavioral psychology, and human development. In addition to developing syllabi, psychology professors create assignments and exams to assess student learning. These professors also conduct research and publish their work.

A tenure-track psychology professor typically needs a Ph.D., though some colleges hire candidates with Psy.D. degrees to teach clinical psychology or for adjunct positions. Psychology professors may need special licensure, depending on their research and teaching areas.

Median Annual Salary

Projected Growth Rate

Psychologists

Psychologists research behavior and the decision-making process. In specializations like clinical or counseling psychology, they work with individuals and groups managing emotional or behavioral problems. Psychologists also conduct research into human development, identify organizational dynamics, and test neurological responses, often publishing their research.

Most psychologist jobs require a doctorate, though a school psychologist or I/O psychologist may hold only a master’s degree. A Psy.D. prepares psychologists for clinical roles and professional licensure. A licensed psychologist typically needs a doctorate, passing scores on a national exam, and supervised professional experience. Psychologists can also pursue specialty certification.

Medical and Health Services Managers

Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare executives, coordinate services in hospitals, medical practices, and other healthcare organizations. They set policy for their units, analyze data on quality, and implement plans to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Healthcare executives also ensure their organizations follow laws and regulations.

With psychology training, healthcare executives can work for community health and behavioral health facilities, including inpatient treatment centers. They also need administrative training in management and budgeting, and medical and health services managers often hold graduate degrees. The career path does not require a professional license.

Psychology Professional Organizations

Professional organizations help doctoral students expand their professional networks and prepare to transition into clinical practice, research roles, or other psychology careers. These organizations offer career resources, scholarships, and professional development support for doctoral candidates. They may also offer discounted student memberships.

American Psychological Association

APA represents over 122,000 researchers, clinicians, educators, and students in psychology. The association promotes psychology as a discipline, accredits psychology programs, and offers career resources for students. Members can visit the psychology help center for clinical support or read APA publications to stay current with the field. The association also awards scholarships and fellowships.

International Council of Psychologists

Since its founding in 1941, ICP has connected psychologists around the world. Members benefit from annual conferences and newsletters, mentorship opportunities, and professional development resources, such as webinars. This organization also offers travel and recognition awards for members.

Association for Applied Sport Psychology

AASP dates back to 1985 and represents sports and performance psychology professionals. Members work with athletes, business professionals, and military personnel to improve their physical and mental performance. The association offers professional certifications, hosts an annual conference with networking opportunities, and provides webinars and publications to help practitioners stay current in the field. AASP also offers grants and a student center.

Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Psychology Degree

Doctoral programs typically cost tens of thousands in tuition and fees, even when courses are offered partially online. Fortunately, doctoral students qualify for many forms of financial aid to pay for their degrees.

To start, students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which qualifies filers for federal student loans and work-study programs. In addition to federal loans, students can also use private loans to cover costs. Many states also support degree-seekers with grants or scholarships.

Institutional support helps many graduate students earn psychology degrees. Universities often award fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to help recruit and retain students. Some doctoral fellowships include tuition waivers and stipends. To learn about the options at your school, check with the student assistance or finance office.

Finally, psychology degree-seekers qualify for scholarships offered by professional associations, private foundations, and private donors. For example, the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology offers both scholarships and fellowships. The APA also offers scholarships and fellowships for psychology doctoral students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you become a psychologist with an online degree.

Yes, though there are no accredited psychology doctorates that are available fully online. Instead, programs offer a mix of online and in-person coursework. Psychologists who earn APA-accredited degrees partially online qualify for a professional license in most states. Some career paths, including academia and research, may not require a license.

Are Online Psy.D. Programs APA Accredited?

The APA does not currently accredit any fully online Psy.D. programs. However, the APA does accredit hybrid programs. Always check local state requirements for psychologist licensure before enrolling in a psychology doctoral program to ensure that it meets specifications.

Can You Earn a Doctorate in Psychology Completely Online?

No. As of 2021, the APA — the only agency authorized to accredit psychology doctoral programs — does not accredit any fully online programs.

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PhD in Psychology Further Your Understanding of Psychology

Degree Options

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Understand the Human Experience from a Biblical Worldview with an Online PhD in Psychology

Do you want to deepen your knowledge in psychology and use your research to contribute to the field of understanding human behavior? Liberty University’s PhD in Psychology can provide rigorous research training that can better prepare you for a career in academia and research. An online PhD in Psychology is ideal for students who want to bring new knowledge of human behavior to the field and find new ways to help people heal, grow, and thrive.

Liberty’s PhD in Psychology is designed to prepare you to evaluate research and to understand the truth about human behavior from a biblical worldview. Our mission is to  Train Champions for Christ , and we fulfill this mission by training professionals to use science and biblical values to understand the full breadth of the human experience. Our unique, biblically-based approach to this field can help prepare you to make a positive impact on those you work with.

With Liberty’s PhD in Psychology, you can take part in optional face-to-face on-campus intensives that will allow you to meet faculty and other students while you develop your professional and research skills.

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Psychology Degree?

Liberty’s online PhD in Psychology is designed to build on your previous study and experience in human psychology and develop you into a researcher and psychologist who demonstrates ethical and academic excellence while integrating biblical values into your practice.

Through this program, you will:

• Learn how an appreciation of biblical values enhances psychiatric practice by putting human value at the forefront of technique and theory.
• Develop a grounded critical approach to psychiatric research and theory while integrating a biblical worldview into approaches to current issues in psychology.
• Master psychiatric research and writing techniques that can establish your work in the study of human behavior.
• Complete dissertation research through your program with mentorship from your professors so that you have the option to present research at conferences.

Through this program, you will be encouraged to become a thought leader on a variety of topics related to the human experience. Our goal is to help you venture into the world of psychiatric research and practice and offer insights based on biblical foundations of truth that can help people heal and thrive.

Featured Courses

• PSYC 510 — Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology I
• PSYC 710 — Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview
• PSYC 716 — Theories and Research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PSYC 775 — Teaching of Psychology

Degree Information

• This program falls under the  School of Behavioral Sciences .
• View the  Graduate Behavioral Sciences Course Guides   (login required).
• View the  PhD in Psychology Dissertation Handbook
• The online PhD in Psychology is a non-clinical, non-licensure program.

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Degree?

To help you meet your educational goals in a way that fits your life, our online PhD in Psychology provides scheduling flexibility and keeps affordability in mind. Our PhD in Psychology’s online format allows you to take your classes from home without traveling to campus. However, this program still provides a community of psychology professionals and the ability to take optional intensive courses to allow you to connect in person.

Throughout this program, Liberty incorporates a biblical worldview into your instruction. This perspective in your research and practical training in psychology can help you develop professional and academic excellence without compromising an ethical appreciation for human life. Additionally, our caring faculty are devoted to helping you grow personally and academically.

With our online PhD in Psychology, you can learn effective clinical techniques, essential behavioral theory, and develop your research and writing expertise. You can be equipped with a thorough understanding of human thought and behavior while developing your own research to further the field.

Earning a PhD in Psychology online with Liberty means that you will be trained to engage with research and psychiatric practice critically and biblically. If you are interested in becoming a thoughtful, articulate, and research-focused professional, then this is the program for you.

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Potential Career Opportunities for PhD in Psychology Graduates

• Corporate psychologist
• Program or department head
• Project manager

Degree Options for Our PhD in Psychology Program

Focus your studies in psychology with a specialization.

Behavioral Health Leadership

Through the  PhD in Psychology – Behavioral Health Leadership , you can hone your research and leadership skills as you prepare to pursue administrative and management positions in mental and behavioral health organizations.

View the Degree Completion Plan .

Developmental Psychology

Through the online  PhD in Psychology – Developmental Psychology , you can learn about research theory related to human development, including cognitive development, social development, and language development.

General Psychology

The online PhD in Psychology – General Psychology provides an in-depth study of advanced psychiatric research and practice while giving you room to customize your course content.

Industrial/Organizational Psychology

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology  track, you will study human behavior in organizations and the workplace. You will focus on deriving principles of individual, group, and organizational behavior and applying that knowledge to developing solutions for challenges in the workplace.

Social Psychology

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Social Psychology  track, you can learn about research and theory related to social processes and relationships, attitudes, and other constructs related to social psychology.

In the online  PhD in Psychology – Theology  track, you can learn how to study the Bible and integrate that study of the Bible with research in psychology to further your understanding of psychological concepts.

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Our PhD in Psychology

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Contact information  for 2 recommenders is required (approved recommenders are the student’s former college professors or supervisors).
• Statement of Purpose  is required (1,000-1,500 words, double spaced).
• Departmental approval is required.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

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Lynchburg, VA 24515

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

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• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there opportunities to interact in-person with peers.

You can meet faculty and fellow students in person through optional on-campus intensives.

Can I have an impact through this degree?

Through your dissertation, you can contribute to the understanding of human experience and behavior.

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• PsyD in Clinical Psychology

PsyD in Clinical Psychology Doctor of Psychology

Reach the pinnacle of your career while helping others develop their potential. The online PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Capella deepens your understanding of human behavior and helps you prepare for state licensure eligibility.

The program includes coursework, face-to-face residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research to help you put theory into practice. A support team of licensure experts, advisors, and teaching assistants will help you stay on track for graduation.

Prepare for licensure

This program features online coursework and face-to-face experiences, both designed to help you pursue licensure. Learn more

Blend of in-person and online experiences

Coursework, residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research complement online learning to help prepare you for real-world clinical settings.

Professional and credible

This program is designed around the core goals, objectives, and competencies that define the practice of professional psychology.

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

• Online and in-person
• 14 Core courses
• 30 Max transfer credits
• 2 Elective courses
• 6 Residency courses
• 3 Practicum courses
• 4 Internship courses
• 1 Dissertation Preparation course
• Clinical dissertation

Courses and skills

Explore clinical psychology courses.

• This program requires a total of 145 quarter credits
• You'll need to complete 14 core courses, 2 elective courses, 6 residency courses, 3 practicum courses, 4 internship courses, one dissertation preparation course and one clinical dissertation

View all courses in catalog

What you'll learn

Our PsyD in Clinical Psychology equips you with comprehensive clinical skills based on the theoretical and scientific foundations of psychology, from assessment to intervention. It is designed to help you pursue licensure, subject to the requirements in your state.

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

• Demonstrate the attitudes, behaviors, and foundational knowledge required for the practice of psychology
• Act consistently with the ethics and laws pertaining to clinical practice
• Integrate science and theory into the practice of psychology
• Understand, respect, and apply issues of diversity in the practice of psychology
• Provide effective and appropriate psychological intervention to clients
• Accurately select, administer, score, and interpret psychological tests
• Employ research as a means to advance the science and practice of psychology

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the doctor of psychology cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A more structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1–2 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$555  per credit,  131  coursework credits, 30 max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$555 Per quarter credit

131 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

Practicum and Internship

Included in coursework costs; additional expenses such as site-required expenses not included. Minimum of 1,000 supervised practicum hours; minimum of 2,000 supervised internship hours

Included in coursework costs, 6 required. 4 one-week sessions and 2 two-week sessions. Travel, lodging, meals and other expenses not included.

Dissertation Preparation

$2,780 Per quarter

Per quarter

Clinical Dissertation

Resource kit fee

Per quarter, coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• The program specialization you choose
• Scholarships and finances
• Prior coursework

Transfer credits

• Employer and/or military benefits
• Amount of time spent working on practicum
• Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
• Complexity of your dissertation
• Academic performance
• School/work/life balance
• Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

Get the credits you deserve. You may be able to save time and money on your Capella degree by transferring credits from an accredited university.  Get started

Employer & association discounts

If your employer or organization is a Capella network partner, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your employer what offers are available.

10% military discount 

Capella offers a tuition discount to active-duty service members, guard and reserve members, veterans, their spouses* and dependents. *Starting in July, spouses of veterans can now benefit from a 10% discount on eligible certificates, master’s and doctoral programs and a 15% discount on eligible bachelor’s programs.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

Understanding professional licensure

Preparing for licensure.

It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.

Licensure details

How to apply

What are the psyd admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree in psychology or a related field from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution.
• Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

Additional requirements for Doctor of Psychology programs are:

• 3 letters of recommendation completed by professionals who can assess your aptitude for doctoral education in psychology
• An extended goal statement and writing sample.
• Your résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
• After submitting admission materials, applicants may be required to take part in a faculty interview for assessment of professionalism and academic fit to the program

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed coaching sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

Helping Professions Program Guide

Wondering about the differences between PhDs and professional doctorates? What are the unique features of online and traditional doctoral programs? Read on to learn more and find the right program for you.

What’s It Like to Be a Doctoral Student?

Get details on Capella University programs in counseling and family therapy, psychology, social work and human services, and applied behavior analysis. Compare learning formats, financing options, and more.

Career exploration

What can you do with a psyd in clinical psychology degree.

Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PsyD in Clinical Psychology.

Related job titles to explore*

• Clinical health psychologist
• Clinical psychologist
• Counseling psychologist
• Inpatient psychologist
• Licensed psychologist
• Pediatric psychologist
• Psychologist
• Psychology professor **

Employment settings to explore

• Colleges, universities and professional schools
• General medical and surgical hospitals
• Offices of mental health practitioners (except physicians)
• Offices of physicians, mental health specialists
• Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers
• Psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals
• Services for the elderly and persons with disabilities

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

** Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Understanding your target employers’ particular requirements is key in deciding on a doctoral program.

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Best Online Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) Programs

• PhD vs PsyD
• Admissions Process

University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class, unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlight the best programs for a doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD).

Compare Popular Online Doctorate Psychology Programs

As you consider your journey into the profound and rewarding field of mental health, an online Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree is a pathway tailored for those aspiring to blend scholarly knowledge with practical application. Both traditional doctoral programs and online PsyD degrees zero in on nurturing the skills you need to excel in this endeavor. A clinical psychology doctorate typically spans four to six years of education steeped in direct therapeutic practice and applied psychology — preparing you to chart a course toward transformative client care and licensure as a clinical psychologist.

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What is a doctor of clinical psychology degree.

When envisioning a future as a clinical psychologist, understanding the significance and substance of a Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree is crucial. This pivotal educational achievement is not merely a certification; it is a transformative journey that endows you with the proficiency to assess, diagnose, and treat those grappling with mental health challenges. Your path as a clinical psychologist begins with a comprehensive doctoral degree in psychology, typically known as a PsyD degree, guiding you toward the pinnacle of this helping profession.

Find Your Online Psychology Program

Defining the psyd degree in the field of psychology.

A Doctor of Psychology, commonly referred to as a PsyD, is a specialized doctoral degree in psychology emphasizing clinical practice over research. If you aspire to immerse yourself in the therapeutic process, offering light to those in psychological distress, a PsyD degree provides you with the tools necessary. As a professional degree, it readies you for an engaging career addressing a spectrum of mental health conditions and equips you with the clinical psychologist requirements essential for licensure.

History and Evolution of the PsyD Degree

The PsyD degree emerged as an innovative response to the pressing demand for more clinical service providers within the psychology landscape. First introduced in the 1970s, the evolution of Doctor of Psychology programs mirrors the evolving needs of the mental health community. By striking a harmonious balance between academic rigor and clinical acumen, the PsyD rightfully earned its place alongside its research-focused counterpart, the PhD in clinical psychology.

Differences Between PsyD and PhD in Clinical Psychology

Setting out to earn a psychology doctorate degree is a decision laden with options. A PsyD, whether taken online or through a more traditional program, focuses intensely on practical application, making it ideal for those yearning for direct patient interaction. In contrast, a PhD in psychology is rooted in research, appealing to those who aim to contribute to academia or scientific discovery. These divergent paths both lead to licensure yet cater to distinct professional aspirations within the realm of clinical psychology.

The Importance of a Doctor of Clinical Psychology Degree for Licensure

Embarking on a career as a licensed clinical psychologist is a noble and fulfilling pursuit that necessitates extensive education and training in clinical psychology. Your pathway toward this goal is marked by essential milestones, including the completion of a rigorous online or on-campus clinical psychology degree, adherence to the educational requirements for psychological practice, and dedication to amassing clinical hours designed to train you for expertise in the field.

Educational Requirements for Psychological Practice

The first foundational block is your education, specifically obtaining a clinical psychology master's degree from a program that has the backing of accreditation from reputable bodies, such as the American Psychological Association (APA). These accredited clinical psychology programs are designed to fulfill educational requirements for psychological practice, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the demands of the profession and ready for the subsequent steps toward licensure.

Pathway to Licensure: Clinical Hours and Examinations

Next, you’ll need to meet state-specific licensure requirements. This encompasses not only the demonstration of knowledge via a rigorous academic curriculum but also the completion of supervised clinical hours—vital real-world training, and the successful navigation of licensing examinations, such as the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Indeed, these stringent measures, which include extensive clinical hours and acing the licensing examinations, serve to protect the public by ensuring that only qualified individuals provide psychological services. They also instill confidence in the community by upholding the highest standards of the profession. Therefore, it's imperative that you engage wholeheartedly in these educational and practical facets to transcend the role of a student and emerge as a licensed clinician equipped with a comprehensive clinical psychology degree.

Evaluating PhD vs PsyD: Which Program Fits Your Aspirations?

Choosing the right path in higher education is pivotal for your future in the realm of clinical psychology. Whether you're leaning towards a PhD program or a PsyD, it's crucial to understand how each aligns with your personal and professional goals. Grasping the core differences between these Doctor of Psychology programs is the first step toward making an informed decision.

Comparing PsyD and PhD Focus and Curriculum

If your aspiration leans heavily toward engaging clients and administering therapy, you might find a closer companion in the PsyD program. Renowned for its emphasis on practical training and clinical experience, a PsyD program equips you with the immediate skills for client-centered work. However, should your interests diverge toward the mechanisms of the mind and contributing to foundational knowledge through research, clinical psychology PhD programs offer the rigorous research training you may be seeking.

In considering these doctorate in psychology programs, weigh the curriculum and the outcomes they foster.

• PsyD Program: Geared towards those aiming to practice psychology clinically, with substantial coursework in therapeutic techniques, assessments, and interventions.
• PhD Program: Designed for those interested in theory and research in psychology, offering comprehensive training in research methodologies, data analysis, and scientific writing.

Considerations for Students Interested in Research or Teaching

Immerse yourself in a PhD program if you're drawn to the prospect of being at the forefront of psychological research or shaping the next generation of psychologists through teaching. Such programs not only set the stage for significant contributions to the research landscape but also open doors to academic positions, where teaching and mentorship are key components.

In contrast, if you are certain that a clinical path is where your passion resides, fulfilling clinical psychology doctorate requirements through a PsyD program could be the optimal choice. Indeed, this program sharpens your clinical proficiency, ensuring you are adept in handling patient care directly after graduation.

Understanding the Admissions Process for PsyD Programs

Embarking on a journey toward a Doctor of Psychology program begins with the admissions process. To gain entry into reputable PsyD programs, you must navigate through several critical steps. You’ll need to understand all the requirements and prepare the details and paperwork that will optimize your candidacy for these competitive doctorate in psychology programs.

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• Application Submission: You must begin with the submission of a formal application, which serves as your initial introduction to the admissions committee. Be sure to adhere to all the required formats and deadlines.
• Transcript Evaluation: Your academic history, reflected through official transcripts, is evaluated to ensure you meet the prerequisite educational standards.
• Letters of Recommendation: Solicit letters from mentors or professionals who can vouch for your academic abilities and potential as a clinical psychologist.
• Crafting a Personal Statement: An opportunity to articulate your passion, goals, and reasons for pursuing a doctorate in this field, the personal statement is a cornerstone of your application.
• Supplemental Materials: A well-crafted resume and writing samples can further illustrate your qualifications and readiness for doctoral-level work.
• Interview Process: Should the program require it, an interview can be a pivotal moment where you can make a strong personal impression.

Each institution's admission criteria may vary, but common threads include attention to academic performance, relevant experience, and alignment with the program's values.

Now, let’s elaborate on each of these components in the following table:

Clinical Psychology Doctorate Requirements and Prerequisites

Before you apply to a program, it's crucial to know the academic baseline that will set the stage for your application to be considered. Central to the prerequisites is your GPA, a reflection of your academic accomplishments. A strong GPA for clinical psychology programs typically must be within the 3.0 to 3.5 range, though this may vary by institution. Furthermore, programs often require specific coursework to have been completed during your undergraduate studies. This is where having an academic background for clinical psychology programs comes into play, underscoring the essence of relevant experience and knowledge in psychology or associated fields.

In addition to the transcript of records, you'll need to present GRE scores for clinical psychology programs. Competitive programs often look for scores close to the 160 mark for both verbal and quantitative sections, and a 5 for analytical writing. Presenting a strong GRE score not only reflects your readiness for graduate-level study but also stands as a testament to your analytical and critical thinking capabilities.

• Minimum undergraduate GPA (usually between 3.0 to 3.5)
• GRE scores (competitive scores around 160 for verbal and quantitative, 5 for analytical writing)
• Relevant academic and/or professional background

It's noteworthy to mention that some programs may consider a wealth of relevant clinical or research experience as somewhat compensatory for lower performance in other areas. Hence, ensure your application highlights any extensive experience in the field of clinical psychology.

Remember, each program bears its unique set of criteria; it's imperative that you investigate and align your qualifications accordingly. By ensuring that these key requirements are met, you fortify your chances of admission into a prestigious online clinical psychology doctorate program.

Exploring the PsyD Curriculum: What to Expect

A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree means engaging in an immersive exploration into a curriculum of clinical psychology courses focused on preparing you for the multifaceted world of mental health practice. A PsyD curriculum ensures a comprehensive foundation in core subjects, enabling students to acquire essential psychotherapy training and specialized knowledge coveted in the field.

Customizing Your Education with Concentrations

The array of specialization in clinical psychology allows you to carve a distinct academic and professional path that suits your aspirations. Clinical psychology concentrations range extensively, offering a breadth of concentration options in clinical psychology.

These may include the following:

• Child and Adolescent Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Neuropsychology

Selecting a concentration refines your expertise and enhances your value in the marketplace, positioning you well to address specific clinical needs and population challenges.

Core Subjects and Specialized Courses in PsyD Education

A strong foundation in core subjects in PsyD programs is pivotal to a well-rounded clinical psychology education. The subjects span psychopathology, psychological assessment, therapy techniques, and professional ethics.

Here's a closer look at the PsyD curriculum's integral components:

• Foundations of Psychopathology
• Psychotherapy Methods
• Assessment Strategies
• Evidence-based Treatment Planning
• Research Design and Analysis
• Cultural and Ethical Competency

Beyond core requisites, students will take clinical psychologist courses tailored to their specialization, diving deep into complex areas like cognitive-behavioral therapy or substance abuse counseling. These specialized courses in clinical psychology cultivate a high level of competency essential for today's dynamic clinical environments.

Emerging Areas of Focus in Clinical Psychology

Staying attuned to advancements in clinical psychology is quintessential for modern practitioners. Areas witnessing substantial growth and redefining service delivery include:

Exploring the emerging areas of clinical psychology ensures that you are equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques, aptly preparing you to make significant contributions to the ever-advancing field of clinical psychology.

The Practicalities of Pursuing a PsyD Degree Online

The decision to enroll in PsyD programs online ushers in an era of unparalleled flexibility, particularly for those balancing a career or family commitments. Opting for PsyD online programs paves the way for a seamless integration of advanced education into your existing lifestyle, reducing the need for geographical relocations or rigorous class schedules.

Aspiring psychologists often find that online clinical psychology programs maintain the rigorous standards of traditional on-campus graduate education while offering the convenience of digital accessibility. Coursework, discussions, and even certain elements of clinical training can be conducted remotely, provided you have a reliable internet connection and a self-driven attitude towards learning.

• Accreditation is key: Ensure the online program is accredited by a recognized body to fulfill licensure requirements.
• Real-life experience: Look for programs that include practicum or internship opportunities to gain necessary hands-on experience.
• Community connections: Networking with peers and professionals can be managed digitally through various online platforms.

One outstanding consideration when enrolling in an online doctorate in psychology is the requirement to complete in-person clinical training. Hands-on experience is pivotal in this field, and most online programs will necessitate attendance at designated sites for practicum hours. This practical training ensures that you gain the experience needed to excel as a psychology professional while fulfilling part of the criteria for licensure.

To succinctly outline the advantages and considerations of online PsyD educational pathways, the following table contrasts the typical features of online programs against traditional ones:

Pursuing a doctorate program online is a resilient and adaptive approach for self-motivated individuals that need to merge academic aspirations with other life commitments. Nonetheless, diligently evaluate each PsyD online program for its unique attributes, ensuring it upholds academic integrity and fulfills the licensure prerequisites needed to transform your professional ambitions into achievements.

Potential Career Options and Salaries with an Online Doctor of Clinical Psychology Degree

Embarking on a journey to earn a Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree positions you for a versatile range of career paths within the realm of mental health. Envision yourself contributing to the health and wellbeing of individuals across various environments—your expertise is not confined to the walls of private practice but extends to bustling hospitals, supportive mental health centers, the pivotal work within government agencies, or the transformative setting of nonprofit organizations. This breadth of career options with a Doctor of Clinical Psychology ensures that your invaluable skills will find a platform that resonates with your professional inclinations.

For those with an academic inclination, careers in clinical psychology are not limited to direct patient care. The academic corridors await you as professors shaping the minds of future psychologists or as researchers extending the boundaries of psychological understanding. A clinical psychologist’s career will give you access to a tapestry of opportunities that allows you to leave a meaningful impact, be it through practice, policy, education, or pioneering research.

The financial prospects in this field are as diverse as the career choices. The salaries for clinical psychologists reflect a range of factors including your accumulated experience, geographic location, and the sector in which you choose to operate. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage tilts the scale at approximately $60,000 for those with a master’s in psychology and $90,000 for those with a doctoral degree. However, this is a fluid landscape where salaries can oscillate upward of $200,000. As you contemplate a Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree, weigh the potential returns along with the profound satisfaction of fostering mental well-being in society.

Frequently Asked Questions

A PsyD in clinical psychology, or clinical psychology program, is a doctoral-level degree that focuses on practical application and clinical practice in the field of clinical psychology. It prepares students for a career as a clinical psychologist, emphasizing hands-on training and practical skills development.

What is the difference between a PsyD and a PhD in Clinical Psychology?

The main difference between a PsyD and a PhD in Clinical Psychology is their focus. A PsyD degree is practice-oriented and emphasizes clinical skills and direct patient care. It is suitable for individuals interested in working as practitioners in the field. On the other hand, a PhD degree is research-oriented and focuses on scientific research methods and academic teaching. It is more suitable for individuals interested in research and academia. The faculty members for each program will also likely have different research interests.

What are the educational requirements for licensed clinical psychologists?

To practice as a licensed clinical psychologist, individuals must complete a doctoral-level degree in psychology, such as a PsyD or PhD, from an accredited institution; a master's degree won't be enough. They are also required to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours and pass a licensing examination, such as the EPPP, to meet licensure requirements.

Can I pursue a PsyD degree online?

Yes, there are online PsyD programs available that offer flexibility and convenience for students. Online programs provide the same rigorous curriculum as traditional on-campus programs but allow students to complete coursework and assignments remotely. Some programs may require in-person practicum or internship experiences for clinical training.

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Online Counseling Degree Programs: A comprehensive guide

From 2019 to 2022, the share of fully online learners more than doubled. 1 The popularity of online programs for all levels of education has significantly increased–those for clinical mental health counseling included. These master's in counseling programs, many of which are accredited and highly ranked, cater to a wide range of specializations within the counseling sector, reflecting their commitment to high-quality education standards. They offer a path for aspiring mental health counselors to prepare for the challenges of the field, providing comprehensive knowledge and practical skills through advanced online learning environments, responding to a need for education that is both flexible and reputable. This shift towards online education highlights the legitimacy and effectiveness of online counseling degree programs in preparing students for successful careers as mental health counselors.

The rise of online counseling degrees

Online learning has revolutionized higher education by offering unparalleled accessibility and flexibility. It enables students to tailor their study schedules around personal and professional commitments, making higher education more attainable for those who might not be able to commit to traditional, on-campus programs. Although online learning hit its peak during the COVID-19 pandemic, in the fall of 2022 about 54% of college students were taking distance education courses. More than 10 million students take at least some distance education courses. 1

The convenience of accessing course materials from anywhere with an internet connection allows for a more balanced approach to education, work, and life. This flexibility does not sacrifice quality; online courses offer the same rigorous curriculum as their in-person counterparts, preparing students for success.

Accredited online counseling programs

An online counseling program may receive accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), which is considered the gold standard in validating the quality of clinical mental health counseling programs. CACREP establishes, upholds, and updates criteria guaranteeing that students obtain a comprehensive, pertinent counselor education. Earning CACREP accreditation signifies that a mental health counseling program's curriculum adheres to professional standards and importantly, meets the prerequisites for state licensure.

You can check to see if your counseling online program is accredited by visiting the CACREP website. It should also be prominently displayed on any online counseling programs' website.

Specializations in online counseling degrees

Online counseling programs offer a rich array of specializations, allowing students to tailor their education to their personal interests and career goals . After completing a series of foundational courses on topics like counseling theory , human development , and clinical counseling, focused pathways allow students to hone into the specialized skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen niche.

Child and adolescent counseling:

• Focuses on the unique psychological needs of children and adolescents, equipping students with the skills to provide effective therapy for issues such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems.
• Prepares candidates to work in settings like schools, private practices, and youth mental health counseling centers, offering support through developmental challenges and transitions. Those interested in working in schools may have to pursue specific school counseling programs to achieve licensure for that setting.

Marriage and family therapy:

• Concentrates on the dynamics of relationships and family structures, training students in therapeutic techniques that help families and couples navigate conflict, communication issues, and major life changes.
• Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings, including family counseling centers, private practices, and community health agencies, fostering healthier relationships and familial bonds.

Substance abuse and addiction counseling:

• Provides students with a deep understanding of the complexities of addiction, including the physiological, psychological, and social factors contributing to substance abuse.
• Mental health counselor students build strategies for treatment and recovery support, preparing them for roles leading individual or group counseling in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and community outreach programs.

Navigating online counseling degree program costs

Prospective students exploring an online counseling degree should investigate financial aid options, scholarships, and cost-saving strategies to make their education more affordable. Federal financial aid, which includes grants and loans, is available to eligible students and can significantly reduce education costs. Additionally, many institutions offer scholarships specifically for counseling students, including merit-based and need-based awards. Researching early and applying for multiple scholarship opportunities can increase your chances of receiving aid. Moreover, consider part-time enrollment or employer tuition assistance programs as ways to spread out costs and possibly gain support from your workplace. Understanding all available options can ease the financial burden and make your educational goals more achievable.

Choosing the right mental health counseling program

When choosing a clinical mental health counseling program, it's vital to look beyond rankings and consider aspects that directly impact your education and career. The format of the counseling program is crucial—whether it's fully online or offers hybrid options can affect your ability to balance studies with personal and professional obligations. Faculty expertise is another key factor; experienced instructors can provide invaluable insights and mentorship, enhancing your learning experience. Additionally, the availability of specialization options allows you to align your education with your career goals, ensuring you acquire the skills and knowledge needed for your specific field of interest. These considerations are essential for finding a program that not only meets academic standards but also supports your individual needs and aspirations.

Continue your exploration of online counseling degrees

Securing a master’s degree is a crucial step toward licensure and becoming a proficient mental health counselor–and now you can study counseling online from wherever you're located. If you choose to attend Marquette University's online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling , you can trust that your online master's degree is accredited and respected.

Marquette's on-campus degree program graduates have demonstrated high success rates on licensing exams. In the 2023 cohort, comprising 47 on-campus students, an impressive 83% passed the national counseling exam, surpassing the national average of 81%. Furthermore, every Marquette counseling graduate looking for work and responding to an alumni survey reported finding employment within three months after graduation. Not only is Marquette University's online counseling degree accredited, but it mirrors the on-campus program in curriculum and requirements, so you know your counseling skills will be top-notch and you'll leave with a robust clinical mental health counselor network.

Specialize in child and adolescent mental health counseling or take the traditional track and hone into your interests via practicum and internship experiences. Want to learn more? Schedule a call to speak with an admissions outreach advisor to have all your questions answered.

• Retrieved on June 21, 2024, from forbes.com/advisor/education/online-colleges/online-learning-stats/

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Marquette University has engaged Everspring , a leading provider of education and technology services, to support select aspects of program delivery.

Graduate Programs

Our graduate programs will provide graduate students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to become successful consumers and producers of psychological science. Psychology is a broad discipline that interfaces with the biological and social sciences and our program is organized around three concentrations that encapsulate the breadth of psychological science:

• Social/Personality
• Behavioral Health
• Evolutionary and Comparative

Apply Now M.S. in Psychology Requirements Ph.D. in Psychology Requirements

The Master of Science (MS) with a concentration in Social-Personality Psychology is a two-year terminal degree program in experimental methodology. The Ph.D. is a five-year program aimed at preparing the candidate for an academic career in Social-Personality Psychology. As a graduate student in the Social-Personality concentration, you will be exposed to course work concerning the theoretical foundations of the discipline. You will also acquire the quantitative skills and expertise in research methodology that is necessary to contribute to the advancement of the field of social-personality psychology. Through formal and informal aspects of the program, you will develop skills in conceptual analysis of social-personality psychology, research design, data analysis, scientific writing, teaching, editorial reviewing, and scholarly presentations.

Faculty in the Social-Personality Psychology concentration have varied, active research programs currently investigating several facets of psychological experience, including self-esteem, dark personality features (e.g., narcissism), post-traumatic growth, social influence (e.g., obedience, conformity), alcohol use, physiological correlates of social behavior (e.g., hormonal variations), romantic relationships, mate choice, sexual violence, sexual risk-taking, infidelity, and jealousy.

Dr. Melissa McDonald : My primary program of research attempts to improve our understanding of why intergroup bias is a pervasive feature of human societies. To this end, I adopt an interdisciplinary approach drawing on research from social and personality psychology as well as anthropology and evolutionary biology. Within this framework, I am interested in how the psychological systems that produce intergroup bias operate, with a particular emphasis on how these systems differ for men and women. For example, my research explores questions such as: Why is intergroup bias so often a male-on-male affair? What are the ultimate motivations of intergroup bias for men and women, and more specifically, when and why do they differ? And, how do situational features and individual differences shape the expression of intergroup bias? Most recently, I have become interested in developing practical interventions for reducing bias and conflict between groups. For more information, please visit:  Dr. Melissa McDonald's website .

Dr. Michele Parkhill Purdie : My primary research interests are centered on both perceptions of masculinity and violence against women. I utilize both survey and experimental methodologies to examine predictors of violence against women with a particular focus on masculinity, childhood abusive trauma, substance use, and emotion regulation. In addition to violence against women, I have several lines of research that examine violence against LGBTQ individuals, police violence, and gun violence. For a list of publications and presentations, please visit:  Dr. Michele Parkhill Purdie's website.

Dr. Kanako Taku : My research has centered on the construct of post-traumatic growth – positive psychological changes that may occur as a result of the struggle with major life crises or traumatic events. One of my primary research interests is developing a psycho-educational intervention program that aims to enhance cognitive abilities triggered by post-traumatic growth. Additionally, I am interested in challenging the definitions and conceptualization of post-traumatic growth from cross-cultural, social, and personality perspectives. I am also investigating different growth processes dependent on the nature of triggered experiences such as: experiencing trauma (e.g., earthquake); causing or enabling trauma (e.g., bullying); having non-traumatic but influential life experiences (e.g., having a baby or undertaking spiritual pilgrimages); and working with traumatized people (e.g., vicarious post-traumatic growth). For more information, please see visit:  Dr. Kanako Taku's website .

Dr. Lisa Welling : My research mainly focuses on hormonal and psychological sources of individual differences in human preferences, perception, and behavior. For example, my work has investigated how menstrual cycle effects, hormonal contraceptive use, and other sources of hormonal variation affect mate choice and person perception in men and women. Other research interests into individual differences in adaptive preferences have investigated penchants for sexually dimorphic cues, cues to kinship/relatedness, dominance, health, condition-dependent preferences, and salience of emotional expressions. Finally, given the incredible importance of mate choice and interpersonal relationships on reproduction and overall fitness, I am interested in human sexual behavior and adaptive preferences for underlying markers of mate quality. For more information and to download publications, please visit:  Dr. Lisa Welling's website .

Dr. Virgil Zeigler-Hill : My primary research interests are in three interrelated areas: (1) self-esteem, (2) dark personality features (e.g., narcissism, psychopathy, spitefulness), and (3) interpersonal relationships. Though divergent at times, these substantive areas often overlap in my research so that much of my work reflects an integration of these topics. In my research concerning self-esteem, I have focused primarily on the causes and consequences of fragile high self-esteem as well as the development of the status-signaling model of self-esteem. My research concerning dark personality features is focused on identifying potentially maladaptive aspects of personality and examining their connections with important life outcomes (e.g., psychological adjustment). Finally, in the area of interpersonal relationships, I examine how personality features as well as beliefs about the self and one’s romantic partner influence intimacy, relationship satisfaction, jealousy, infidelity, and longevity in close relationships. For more information about my research and to download publications, please visit: Dr. Virgil Zeigler-Hill's website.

The Master of Science (MS) with a concentration in Behavioral Health is a two-year terminal degree program in experimental methodology aimed at developing the research skills necessary  to pursue doctoral training in health or applied areas. The Ph.D. is a five-year program aimed at preparing the candidate for an academic career in Behavioral Health.

As a graduate student in the Behavioral Health concentration, you will be exposed to course-work concerning the theoretical foundations of the discipline. You will also acquire the quantitative skills and expertise in research methodology that is necessary to contribute to the advancement of the field of behavioral health psychology. Faculty in the behavioral health concentration have active research programs investigating cardiovascular health, obesity, sexual risk taking, addictive behaviors, violence, trauma, and emotion regulation.

Dr. Michele Parkhill Purdie's website.

The Master of Science with a concentration in evolutionary and comparative psychology is a two-year terminal degree program in experimental methodology. The Ph.D. is a five-year program aimed at preparing the candidate for an academic career in evolutionary psychology or in comparative psychology. Research within this concentration has the principle goal of gaining a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of human and non-human psychology and behavior by exploring research questions as they pertain to natural and sexual selection.

The concentration targets the development of the research skills necessary to pursue (M.S.) or complete (Ph.D.) doctoral training in areas of psychology, such as evolutionary perspectives on cognitive processes, individual differences, and factors influencing behavior in both humans and non-humans. Faculty in the evolutionary and comparative psychology concentration have varied, active research programs currently investigating several facets of psychological experience, including human and non-human cognition, pro-sociality, cooperation, memory, concept formation, theory of mind, individual differences, behavioral endocrinology, mate choice, interpersonal relationships, mate guarding/jealousy, mate choice copying, person perception, preferences, attractiveness, human sexual behavior and animal/human interactions.

Dr. Melissa McDonald : My primary program of research attempts to improve our understanding of why intergroup bias is a pervasive feature of human societies. To this end, I adopt an interdisciplinary approach drawing on research from social and personality psychology as well as anthropology and evolutionary biology. Within this framework, I am interested in how the psychological systems that produce intergroup bias operate, with a particular emphasis on how these systems differ for men and women. For example, my research explores questions such as: Why is intergroup bias so often a male-on-male affair? What are the ultimate motivations of intergroup bias for men and women, and more specifically, when and why do they differ? And, how do situational features and individual differences shape the expression of intergroup bias? Most recently, I have become interested in developing practical interventions for reducing bias and conflict between groups. For more information, please visit: my Dr. Melissa McDonald's website . Dr. Jennifer Vonk: I am a comparative/cognitive psychologist with primary research interests in two overlapping areas: (1) animal cognition, and (2) cognitive development. The underlying goal of my work is to examine cognitive continuities and discontinuities between humans and both closely and distantly related species. Thus, my work focuses on examining both phylogenetic and ontogenetic origins of cognitive processes that may or may not be shared with humans. Current work centers on social cognition, such as theory of mind, co-operation, prosociality, and reasoning about emotions, as well as physical cognition, such as causal reasoning, analogical reasoning, numerosity, and natural concept formation. I am collaborating with the Center for Zoo Animal Welfare at the Detroit Zoo and the Organization for Bat Conservation to tackle issue of animal welfare as well. Recent work with humans is focused on examining the effects of religiosity, attachment, and perspective-taking on human decision-making processes. For additional information and to download publications, please visit:  Dr. Jennifer Vonk's website . Dr. Virgil Zeigler-Hill: My primary research interests are in three interrelated areas: (1) self-esteem, (2) dark personality features (e.g., narcissism, psychopathy, spitefulness), and (3) interpersonal relationships. Though divergent at times, these substantive areas often overlap in my research so that much of my work reflects an integration of these topics. In my research concerning self-esteem, I have focused primarily on the causes and consequences of fragile high self-esteem as well as the development of the status-signaling model of self-esteem. My research concerning dark personality features is focused on identifying potentially maladaptive aspects of personality and examining their connections with important life outcomes (e.g., psychological adjustment). Finally, in the area of interpersonal relationships, I examine how personality features as well as beliefs about the self and one’s romantic partner influence intimacy, relationship satisfaction, jealousy, infidelity, and longevity in close relationships. For more information about my research and to download publications, please visit: Dr. Virgil Zeigler-Hill's website. Dr. Martha Escobar's website .

Department of Psychology

• School Psychology MA/CAGS Graduate Program
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• Department of Counseling, Educational Leadership, and School Psychology

Psychological and Educational Services in Schools

The Rhode Island College School Psychology graduate program prepares candidates to provide a range of psychological and educational services to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional health of children and families in the school community. Candidates earn a M.A. in counseling and a C.A.G.S. in school psychology within three years. Our unique partnerships with outstanding field-based supervisors provide you with the highest quality training experiences.

Program Details

Why ric school psychology, about school psychology, admission requirements, course information, field, practicum and internship experiences.

• Fully Accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
• Approved "With Distinction" by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE).
• Candidates earn a MA in counseling and CAGS in school psychology in three years.
• Small cohorts of 12-15 candidates per year ensure the best in personalized learning.
• 100% of recent graduates report being "Mostly" or "Extremely" Satisfied with the graduate training they received in our program. 
• Financial aid is available, including graduate assistantships and funding through grants. 
• Courses are scheduled in the evenings during Fall and Spring semesters
• We have excellent partnerships with local school districts and field supervisors.
• We coordinate internship experiences in Year 3 to ensure that all candidates have a paid internship (minimum $10,000 stipend).
• The employment rate for program graduates is 100%.

School Psychology Program FAQs

"The professors are extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly - easily the best part of the program. I still will, on occasion, reach out to professors for help with a situation at work."

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A Career That Makes A Difference

School psychologists make a lasting difference in children's lives. They support students' ability to learn and teachers' ability to teach. They are experts in learning, behavior, mental health, and school systems   ( A Career that Makes a Difference: National Association of School Psychologists, 2023 ). 

What School Psychologists Do

School psychologists apply expertise in mental health, learning, and behavior to help children and youth succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. They provide assessment, support, and intervention services to students; partner with families, teachers, and other professionals to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments; work with school administrators to improve school-wide policies; and collaborate with community providers to coordinate services for students ( A Career that Makes a Difference: National Association of School Psychologists, 2023 ). 

Strong Job Outlook

Demand for school psychologists is exceptionally strong and on the rise. School psychology is consistently rated among the 100 Best Jobs in the  U.S. News and World Report School Psychologist Overview . The national average salary for school psychologists is $87,550. The average salary for school psychologists in Rhode Island is $84,230, and the average salary in Massachusetts is $92,730 ( Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022 ). The National Association of School Psychologists also provide additional information on workforce and salary information . 

Visit the National Association of School Psychologists

Criteria for Admission

To be considered for admission, you must provide the following by February 1:

• completed application form accompanied by a $50 nonrefundable application fee
• official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate records
• résumé or curriculum vitae
• professional goals essay
• 3 letters of recommendation accompanied by candidate rating forms
• performance based evaluation

Additional Admissions Criteria (strongly recommended):

• A minimum of three undergraduate or graduate courses in psychology (the admissions committee will consider experiences or coursework in the areas of child mental health or educational settings, in lieu of these requirements, on an individual basis).
• A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of B (3.00 on a 4.00 scale) in undergraduate course work, and/or a minimum GPA of 3.25 in previous graduate work. Applicants with undergraduate GPAs less than 3.00 will be considered upon submission of other evidence of academic potential.

The deadline to submit a complete application packet is February 1. Materials must be postmarked by February 1 to be reviewed. If materials are late your application packet will be considered in the next cycle (the following year).

• Application Deadline: February 1
• Select Applicants Invited for Interview: March
• Notification of Acceptance Decision: March/April
• Earliest Admission Point: Fall Semester

After February 1, application materials are reviewed and select applicants are invited for an on-campus interview (scheduled in March). Applicants receive official notification of their acceptance from the Rhode Island College Graduate School in April. 

Additional Questions? 

Please review our  Frequently Asked Questions  about the RIC school psychology program application requirements.

For general questions about applying to the program or to be connected with a current student in the program, please contact the school psychology graduate assistant .

For specific questions about applying as a C.A.G.S-only student, please contact Dr. Jenlyn Furey , the program director.

For questions related to submitting your online application materials, please contact Rosina Misuraca .

How to Apply

You will need to apply through the Feinstein School of Education and Human Development Graduate Programs Admission​.

RIC's school psychology program is a three-year, entry-level professional training program designed to prepare school psychologists to be proficient in delivering psychological and psycho-educational services to children and youth in school settings. 

First Year: Foundational Knowledge Courses

Fall semester.

• CEP 532: Theories and Methods of Counseling (3 hrs.)
• CEP 534: Quantitative Measurement and Test Interpretation (3 hrs.)
• CEP 601: Cognitive Assessment (3 hrs.)
• CEP 603: Professional School Psychology (3 hrs.)

Spring Semester

• CEP 533: Psychology of students with Exceptionalities (3 hrs.)
• CEP 551: Behavioral Assessment and Intervention (3 hrs.)
• CEP 604: Psychoeducational Assessment and RTI (3 hrs.)
• TESL 539: Language Acquisition and Learning (3 hrs.)

Summer Semester

• CEP 536: Biological Perspectives in Mental Health (3 hrs.)
• CEP 538: Clinical Practicum I (3 hrs.)
• CEP 531: Human Development Across Cultures (3 hrs.)
• CEP 537: Introduction to Group Counseling (3 hrs.)

Second Year: Practicum and Courses

• CEP 651: Academic Instruction, Intervention, and Supports (3 hrs.)
• CEP 675: Consultation and Collaboration in School and Community (3 hrs.)
• CEP 605: School Psychology Practicum (3 hrs.) *Two days per week in a school, supervised by a school psychologist, and the CEP 605 class is held on Thursday evenings.
• M.A. in Counseling – Comprehensive Examination
• CEP 554: Research Methods in Applied Settings (3 hrs.)
• CEP 602: Social Emotional Assessment and Intervention (3 hrs.)
• CEP 605: School Psychology Practicum (3 hrs.) *Two days per week in a school, supervised by a school psychologist, and the CEP 605 class on Thursday evenings.​
• ​SPED 534: Involvement of Parents and Families Who Have Children with Disabilities (3 hrs.)
• Submission of Training Portfolio

Third Year: Internship 

• CEP 629: Internship in School Psychology (6 hrs.) *Five days per week in a school, supervised by a school psychologist. The CEP 629 class is held on Friday afternoons.
• National School Psychology Examination: PRAXIS Exam
• CEP 629 –Internship in School Psychology (6 hrs.) *Five days per week in a school, supervised by a school psychologist. The CEP 629 class is held on Friday afternoons.
• Submission of Performance Portfolio

Additional Information About Courses

• During Fall and Spring semesters, classes are scheduled once per week in the evenings from 4–6:50 pm or 7–9:50 pm
• Summer Sessions I and II classes are scheduled twice per week from 3–6:35 pm or 7–10:35 pm
• Most class formats are 100% in-person, but some are offered in a Hybrid format (half in-person, half online). 
• Sample plans of study for part-time or C.A.G.S.-only students can be found in the School Psychology Handbook .
• The program must be completed within six years. Candidates are allowed to attend part time in year one, but full-time attendance is required for years two and three.

Course Requirements

Course Descriptions

Field experiences provide opportunities for school psychology candidates to practice and master skills consistent with the reflective practitioner model of the FSEHD Conceptual Framework and  NASP's Practice Model . Certified field supervisors and college-based faculty members oversee practicum and internship experiences. 

During year two, candidates complete a full-year practicum experience in a supervised K-12 school setting. A minimum of 400 practicum hours (approximately two full days per week) must be completed by candidates. In addition to training in a school setting, year two candidates attend weekly seminars where field-based experiences are integrated with best practices in school psychology. 

During year three, candidates complete a full-year internship experience in a supervised K-12 school setting. A minimum of 1,200 internship hours (five full days per week), must be completed by candidates. In addition to training in a school setting, interns attend weekly seminars where field-based experiences are integrated with best practices in school psychology. 

Partnerships

The program has strong connections with regional school districts. Recent cooperating school districts include: Attleboro, Burrillville, Blackstone Valley Prep, Cranston, Coventry, Cumberland, Fall River, Providence, Woonsocket, Exeter-West Greenwich, Seekonk, Fairhaven, Somerset, Strategic Psychological Associates, and East Providence.

Hear from Recent Graduates

“Practicum and internship placements were well thought out and ensured a well-rounded experience at all grade levels.”

"My intern supervisor was extremely helpful and made sure I have a wide array of experiences within the school setting."

Additional Information

For more details about goals and objectives related to field experiences, refer to the  School Psychology Handbook .

Our Faculty

Dr. Shannon E. Dowd-Eagle

Dr. John W. Eagle

Dr. Jenlyn Furey

Associate Professor

Dr. Elizabeth Gibbons Holtzman

Adjunct faculty, yanilda goris.

• Adjunct Faculty I

Ms. Alexis B. Moniz

Program Director

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M.S., Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

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Graduate Catalog > Degree Programs and Certificates > Nursing > Master of Science in Nursing > M.S., Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Concentration Overview

The M.S.N., Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program prepares B.S.N.-level, actively licensed registered nurses to provide mental healthcare services across the lifespan. A bachelor’s degree in nursing must be obtained from an accredited institution or recognized foreign institution. The curriculum plan holds a requirement of 46 didactic credit hours as well as 750 supervised clinical practicum hours of direct patient care. The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program is robust and prepares graduates to function as independent providers of a wide range of mental healthcare services in a variety of settings. Successful graduates will also meet the educational and clinical practice standard requirements for board certification as set forth by the American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC). 

Credit Distribution

I. core courses (6 credits).

II. Direct Care Core Courses (9 credits)

III. Concentration (10 Credits)

IV. Practicum Courses (21 Credits)

Total Credit Hours: 46

Program Competencies

In addition to the M.S.N. outcomes, the graduate of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program will be able to:

• Utilize inter-professional knowledge in the advanced nursing care of diverse patients, families, and communities to enact clinical judgment and innovation in nursing practice.
• Demonstrate person-centered, advanced nursing care for diverse patients, families, and communities to promote positive health outcomes.
• Construct advanced nursing care to diverse communities to improve population outcomes.
• Appraise evidence-based advanced nursing care to diverse patients, families, and communities to improve and transform health care.
• Employ advanced nursing care to diverse patients, families, and communities that ensures quality and safety.
• Collaborate in the provision of advanced nursing care to diverse patients, families, and communities to optimize outcomes.
• Lead in the provision of advanced nursing care to diverse patients, families, and communities to provide equitable outcomes.
• Use technology in advanced nursing care to improve the delivery of care.
• Integrate professionalism in advanced nursing care of diverse patients, families, and communities to reflect nursing’s characteristics and values.
• Participate in professional and personal activities while providing advanced nursing care for diverse patients, families, and communities to support life-long learning.

Transfer Your Credit

Have you attended college before? If so, you may be able to transfer credits earned at other regionally accredited colleges or universities. The University also offers a variety of other ways to earn credit – all designed around the needs of adult learners, like you.

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