phd in psychology full form

• Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy Center
• When To See a Therapist
• Types of Therapy
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Couples Therapy
• Managing Stress
• Sleep and Dreaming
• Understanding Emotions
• Self-Improvement
• Healthy Relationships
• Student Resources
• Personality Types
• Sweepstakes
• Guided Meditations
• Verywell Mind Insights
• 2024 Verywell Mind 25
• Mental Health in the Classroom
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board
• Crisis Support

Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

Verywell / Evan Polenghi

Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.

Job opportunities, earning a degree, specialty areas, alternatives.

Getting a Ph.D. in psychology can open up a whole new world of career opportunities. For many careers paths in psychology-related career paths, a doctoral degree is necessary to obtain work and certification. A Ph.D. is one option, but it is not the only educational path that's available to reach some of these goals.

A Ph.D., or doctor of philosophy, is one of the highest level degrees you can earn in the field of psychology . If you're considering pursuing a graduate degree, you might be wondering how long it takes to earn a Ph.D. in psychology . Generally, a bachelor's degree takes four years of study. While a master's degree requires an additional two to three years of study beyond the bachelor's, a doctoral degree can take between four to six years of additional graduate study after earning your bachelor's degree.

Recently, a new degree option known as the Psy.D. , or doctor of psychology, has grown in popularity as an alternative to the Ph.D. The type of degree you decide to pursue depends on a variety of factors, including your own interests and your career aspirations.

Before deciding which is right for you, research your options and decide if graduate school in psychology is even the best choice for you. Depending on your career goals, you might need to earn a master's or doctoral degree in psychology in order to practice in your chosen field. In other instances, a degree in a similar subject such as counseling or social work may be more appropriate.

A doctorate in psychology is required if you want to open your own private practice.

If you want to become a licensed psychologist, you must earn either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology.

In most cases, you will also need a doctorate if you want to teach and conduct research at the college or university level. While there are some opportunities available for people with a master's degree in various specialty fields, such as industrial-organizational psychology and health psychology , those with a doctorate will generally find higher pay, greater job demand, and more opportunity for growth.

In order to earn a Ph.D. in psychology, you need to first begin by earning your bachelor's degree. While earning your undergraduate degree in psychology can be helpful, students with bachelor's degrees in other subjects can also apply their knowledge to psychology Ph.D. programs . Some students in doctorate programs may have a master's degree in psychology , but most doctorate programs do not require it.

After you’ve been admitted to a graduate program, it generally takes at least four years to earn a Ph.D. and another year to complete an internship. Once these requirements have been fulfilled, you can take state and national exams to become licensed to practice psychology in the state where you wish to work.

Once you enter the graduate level of psychology, you will need to choose an area of specialization, such as clinical psychology , counseling psychology, health psychology, or cognitive psychology . The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits graduate programs in three areas: clinical, counseling, and school psychology.   If you are interested in going into one of these specialty areas, it's important to choose a school that has received accreditation through the APA.

For many students, the choice may come down to a clinical psychology program versus a counseling psychology program. There are many similarities between these two Ph.D. options, but there are important distinctions that students should consider. Clinical programs may have more of a research focus while counseling programs tend to focus more on professional practice. The path you choose will depend largely on what you plan to do after you complete your degree.

Of course, the Ph.D. in psychology is not the only graduate degree option. The Psy.D. is a doctorate degree option that you might also want to consider. While there are many similarities between these two degrees, traditional Ph.D. programs tend to be more research-oriented while Psy.D. programs are often more practice-oriented.

The Ph.D. option may be your top choice if you want to mix professional practice with teaching and research, while the Psy.D. option may be preferred if you want to open your own private psychology practice.

In the book "An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology," authors John C. Norcross and Michael A. Sayette suggest that one of the key differences between the two-degree options is that the Ph.D. programs train producers of research while Psy.D. programs train consumers of research. However, professional opportunities for practice are very similar with both degree types.

Research suggests that there are few discernible differences in terms of professional recognition, employment opportunities, or clinical skills between students trained in the Ph.D. or Psy.D. models. One of the few differences is that those with a Ph.D. degree are far more likely to be employed in academic settings and medical schools.

Social work, counseling, education, and the health sciences are other graduate options that you may want to consider if you decide that a doctorate degree is not the best fit for your interests and career goals.

A Word From Verywell

If you are considering a Ph.D. in psychology, spend some time carefully researching your options and thinking about your future goals. A doctoral degree is a major commitment of time, resources, and effort, so it is worth it to take time to consider the right option for your goals. The Ph.D. in psychology can be a great choice if you are interested in being a scientist-practitioner in the field and want to combine doing research with professional practice. It's also great training if you're interested in working at a university where you would teach classes and conduct research on psychological topics.

University of Pennsylvania; School of Arts and Sciences. Information for applicants .

American Psychological Association. Doctoral degrees in psychology: How are they different, or not so different?

U.S. Department of Labor.  Psychologists . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Norcross JC, Sayette MA. An Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (2020/2021 ed.) . New York, NY: The Guilford Press; 2020.

Davis SF, Giordano PJ, Licht CA. Your Career in Psychology: Putting Your Graduate Degree to Work . John Wiley & Sons; 2012. doi:10.1002/9781444315929

US Department of Education. Bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by sex of student and discipline division: 2016-17 .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

	You might be using an unsupported or outdated browser. To get the best possible experience please use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge to view this website.

Psy.D. Vs. Ph.D.: Which Is The Right Fit For You?

Updated: Jan 2, 2024, 3:22pm

Committing to a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. program can have a significant impact on your career path. Both will prepare you for a career in psychology , but there are significant differences between the two programs you should know about. In general, a Ph.D. in psychology focuses more on research and a Psy.D. focuses on practical application.

While both programs can lead to becoming a licensed psychologist , taking a closer look at what each degree track will provide will help you determine whether a Ph.D. or Psy.D. is best for you.

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

What Is a Ph.D. in Psychology?

A Ph.D. in psychology, or a Doctor of Philosophy in psychology, is a doctoral degree that primarily focuses on training students in scientific research. Compared to a Psy.D, the Ph.D. is more common and can be found at many public and private universities.

Students in a Ph.D. in psychology program can expect to obtain and build on the knowledge and skills within general psychology or in a concentration. The American Psychological Association (APA) has an extensive list of subfields that range from clinical psychology to climate and environmental psychology.

Benefits of a Ph.D. in Psychology

A significant benefit of a Ph.D. in psychology is that it offers more financial aid options. Many programs offer scholarships, teaching assistantships or even full or partial tuition remission to cover expenses. Some programs also have research grants and fellowships that are sponsored by government agencies and private companies that you can apply for and become part of a research team.

Another benefit is that some programs offer training in both applied practice and in research, rather than focusing heavily on application as a Psy.D. program would. Having dual training may provide you more opportunities on the job market.

What Is a Psy.D.?

A Psy.D., or a Doctor of Psychology, is also a doctoral degree that focuses on application. A Psy.D. program prepares students to provide services for patients and clients, rather than a focus on research.

Unlike a Ph.D., Psy.D. programs are often found in professional schools of psychology that may be university-based, free-standing or in medical or health and science institutions.

Benefits of a Psy.D.

While a Psy.D. may not have the same financial benefits of a Ph.D. program, a Psy.D. will give you more experience with patients earlier in your program. Candidates will often begin coursework and clinical training in the first year of their program.

A Psy.D. program, such as one for aspiring clinical psychologists , features an intensive focus on client-focused skills. Courses can include supervision and consultation, treatment and assessment and other classes that will cover disorders.

In some Psy.D. programs, you may be expected to complete a doctoral-level research project instead of a dissertation.

What to Consider When Choosing a Program

The first consideration you should make when choosing a program is the kind of work you want to pursue post-graduation. Do you want to do research or teach? Do you want to provide services to clients and patients?

Here are some considerations you should make when making the big decision.

Look at Time Spent in School

Both Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs require a heavy investment of your time in school. Programs often require applicants to have an undergraduate and master’s degree. However, some programs have combined master’s and doctorate degrees, reducing years of education and allowing students to enter the workforce sooner.

Students can expect to spend five years in school before obtaining a degree, with four years of coursework and one year of internship. Many candidates, however, take between five to seven years to graduate.

Find Your Focus

Your academic focus and concentration choice may sway your decision in applying for one doctoral degree over the other.

Concentrations in a Psy.D program are typically in clinical, counseling, school or industrial-organizational psychology . In contrast, the options of subfields within a Ph.D. program are more broad and focus heavily on research and experimentation to build knowledge within a discipline.

Consider Your Career Path

Considering your career path or interests will help you decide whether a Ph.D. or Psy.D. is right for you. While the most familiar psychology careers are commonly found in education and healthcare, psychologists are needed in other industries, such as business and technology. These in-demand specialties contribute to high psychologist salaries .

Accreditation

Accreditation of your Ph.D. or Psy.D. program ensures that your program is recognized by the governing bodies for licensure. While completing an accredited program will not guarantee you employment or licensure, it will equip you with necessary skills and knowledge.

The APA has a tool to help students find accredited doctoral programs, as well as internships and postdoctoral residencies across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can you do with psy.d..

A Psy.D. focuses on working directly with patients to provide psychological services. For example, a clinical Psy.D. will prepare students to provide mental and behavioral healthcare to individuals and families across all demographics and over individuals’ lifespans.

Which psychology field is most in-demand?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong job growth for psychologists from 2022 to 2032, with a 6% increase overall. Clinical and counseling psychologists will see the highest demand, with an expected growth rate of 11%, followed by industrial-organizational psychologists at 6%.

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

Many Ph.D. programs project a five year completion time. However, many students can take upwards of seven years.

• Best Master’s In ABA Online Degrees
• Best Online Master’s In Counseling Psychology
• Master’s In Counseling
• Best Online Psychology Degrees
• Best Online Psychology Master’s Degrees
• Best Online Psy.D. Programs
• Best Online Counseling Degrees
• Best Master’s In Mental Health Counseling Online
• Best Online Counseling Degrees: Top Master’s Programs
• Best Online Master's In School Counseling
• Best Online Master’s In Organizational Psychology
• Best Online MFT Programs
• How To Become A Counseling Psychologist
• Careers In Psychology
• How To Become A Clinical Psychologist
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
• How To Become A Mental Health Counselor
• How To Become A Therapist
• How To Become A Psychologist
• What Can You Do With An Associate Degree In Psychology?
• Earning An Online Bachelor's Degree In Counseling
• CACREP Accreditation
• How Much Does A Psychologist Make?
• Online Mental Health Counseling Degrees
• What Is A Neuropsychologist?
• What Is Counseling Psychology?
• Psychology BA vs BS Degree
• Psychology Degrees, Specializations And Career Paths
• Psychotherapist Vs. Psychologist
• Sociology Vs. Psychology

Psychology Degree Guide: Courses, Careers And Online Options

Best Online Doctorates In Psychology Of 2024

Best Online Ph.D. In Organizational Psychology Programs Of 2024

Best Online Ph.D.s In Counseling Of 2024

How To Become A Psychiatrist: A Step-By-Step Guide

Best Online Associate Degrees In Psychology Of 2024

Brandon Galarita is a freelance writer and K-12 educator in Honolulu, Hawaii. He is passionate about technology in education, college and career readiness and school improvement through data-driven practices.

Psychology Doctorates: The PhD

A psychology PhD is a ‘doctor of philosophy’ with a major in psychology. It is one of two doctoral degrees that is commonly granted in psychology. It typically represents five to seven years of graduate study.

There are multiple types of PhD programs. A person who plans to provide mental health services and evaluations will apply to a clinical, counseling, or school psychology program. There are multiple concentrations and subspecialties within these disciplines.

Walden University offers a Bachelor's, Master's and Doctoral programs in Psychology and Counseling .

Pepperdine University - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy online - Prepare to pursue licensure as an LMFT or LPC in as few as 27 months. No GRE required. Visit School's Website .

New York University - Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance online - No GRE required. MPCAC-accredited. Complete in 2 years. Bilingual concentration available. Scholarships available. Click Here to request information today.

PhD students typically give consideration to the research interests of faculty members of the psychology programs they are considering. After all, these will be their mentors. The PhD is known as a scientist-practitioner degree. It will simultaneously prepare an individual for a career in clinical practice or a career in research and academia. It covers most of the same material as the PsyD, but there is relatively more attention given to research.

PhD Academic Coursework

The doctoral student typically takes seminars and courses in the early part of the program. Many states require that a psychologist has at least 60 semester hours of graduate coursework in psychology. Coursework covers the various bases of human behavior as well as the methodologies of the discipline.

Internship Requirement

Students in the health-related disciplines do a full year of internship. Some students spend two years in half-time internship positions. Although internship may be a graduation requirement, it is generally not done for academic credit in the form of semester or quarter hours.

Doctoral students generally go through a formal matching process through the American Psychological Association (APA) and/ or the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC). Nationwide, not all students match the first time around. Having a stellar record – including practicum work in the desired sub-specialty — can help. PhD students have a better match rate than PsyD students, but the difference is slight.

A student in experimental psychology may not have a formal internship.

Research Requirement for PhD’s

Another major component of the doctoral program is research. PhD students often do both a master’s level research project and a dissertation. The dissertation may reflect several years of work.

Difference between the PhD and PsyD

One key difference between the PhD and the PsyD is that the PhD is heavier on research. It typically takes a little longer than a PsyD: about one year. The research can pay – in a literal sense. Long Island University notes that PhD students are working for the university. PhD students often receive generous stipends from their school. They are less likely than PsyD students to graduate with debt. Once they have that degree in hand, they often have an easier time securing tenure-track faculty positions – if that is indeed the goal.

On the other hand, the PhD isn’t always the degree of choice for the clinical practitioner. PhD students sometimes begin clinical work later than PsyD students ( http://web.indstate.edu/psychology/psyd_program/faq.htm ).

Programs often do not include as much training in psychological assessment. It’s important to remember, though, that the actual requirements vary by program – as do program reputation and outcomes. The American Psychological Association notes that the lines between PhD and PsyD are not as distinct as they used to be.

Getting Into a Psychology Doctorate Program

If a person has their eyes set on a PhD in psychology, it’s best to get some research experience as an undergraduate. PhD programs are more likely to place weight on publishing and presentations and may not place quite the same value on clinically related work experience, according to Long Island University.

Doctoral programs in psychology are highly competitive, and as a rule, the PhD is a little more so than the PsyD. Furthermore, City University of New York notes that PhD programs typically expects students to be full-time which is an impossible commitment for some students.

Schools Offering Psychology Doctorate Programs

• For Psychology Students
• Professional and Student Psychologist Organizations
• A comprehensive list of Psychologist and related professional and student organizations
• Types of Psychologists
• Sub-Specialties in Psychology
• Psychology Education Topics
• What can you do with a Psychology Degree?
• Some top career choices for psychology majors.
• Criminal Justice Careers with a Background in Psychology
• The relationship between the study of Psychology and careers in the Criminal Justice field.
• Articles of Interest
• What can you do with a Psychology Major?
• Psychologist versus Psychiatrist
• What are the differences?
• Telepsychology
• The use of Skype and Other Telecommunications by Psychologists

• Utility Menu

Psychology Graduate Program

• Psychology Department

Please note that our GRE General Test score requirements for admission have changed. For candidates seeking Fall 2025 admission: -  required for applicants to the Clinical Science area  -  optional but recommended for applicants to the Social, Developmental, and CBB areas*  As  of Ma y 2024, GRE General Test scores will be required for all applicants seeking Fall 2026 admission.  The  Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences welcomes applications for admission from individuals who have or will have by the time of matriculation a BA, BS, or equivalent undergraduate degree (for prospective international students, a three- or four-year undergraduate degree from an institution of recognized standing) and actively seeks applicants from groups historically  underrepresented in graduate schools . All degree candidates are admitted for full-time study beginning in the fall term.

Immigration status does not factor into decisions about admissions and financial aid. For more information, see  Undocumented at Harvard .

If you already hold a PhD or its equivalent, or are an advanced doctoral candidate at another institution, you may apply to a PhD program only if it is in an unrelated field of study; however, preference for admissions and financial aid will be given to those who have not already had an opportunity to study for a doctoral degree at Harvard or elsewhere. You may also want to consider pursuing non-degree study through our  Special Student or Visiting Fellow  programs.

Eligible Harvard College students with advanced standing may apply in the fall of their junior year to earn an AM or SM degree during their final year of undergraduate study. Interested students must contact the  Office of Undergraduate Education  for eligibility details before applying.

Questions about the application or required materials should be directed to the Harvard Griffin GSAS Admissions Office at  [email protected] or 617-496-6100. 

Harvard Griffin GSAS does not discriminate against applicants or students on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry or any other protected classification. 

Required Application Materials

Please refer to Completing Your Application on the Harvard Griffin GSAS Admissions site for details.  A complete application consists of:

Online application form

Application fee payment ($105) -  Application fee waivers are available to those for whom payment of the application fee would be financially challenging. Applicants can determine eligibility for a fee waiver by completing a series of questions in the Application Fee section of the application. Once these questions have been completed, the application system will provide an immediate response regarding fee waiver eligibility.

Transcripts

Letters of recommendation (at least 3)

Statement of purpose

Personal statement

Demonstration of English proficiency

GRE General Test scores:   -  required for applicants to the Clinical Science area  -  optional but recommended for applicants to the Social, Developmental, and CBB areas* As of May 2024, GRE General Test scores will be required for all applicants seeking Fall 2026 admission. 

Harvard Griffin GSAS may request additional academic documents, as needed.

*Graduate student admissions are among the most important decisions we make as a department. Like many other PhD programs around the US and abroad, we have wrestled with the question of whether we should continue to require that applicants to our PhD program submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as part of their application. After extensive review of the scientific literature and robust discussion among our faculty, we have decided to continue to make submission of GRE scores optional, but to Recommend that students submit GRE scores if they are able to do so. We wanted to share our candid thoughts on this here.  

A number of empirical and review papers have noted that performance on the GRE is not a strong predictor of performance on a number of graduate school metrics (e.g., correlation with graduate school GPA = .21-.31, which represent small to medium effect sizes; Woo et al., 2023) and that the fact that the significant group differences (by race/ethnicity and gender) in GRE scores suggest it may discourage those from underrepresented groups from applying to PhD programs. Other research has shown that although there are limitations to the GRE, other potential predictors of success in graduate school have even smaller correlations with such outcomes, and removing the GRE would lead us to rely on these other potentially biased factors, such as where a person received their undergraduate degree, what research lab they had the opportunity to train in, and letters of recommendation.(1) We have heard anecdotally from current and former PhD students (including those historically underrepresented in PhD programs) who argue that the GRE helped them demonstrate their abilities when they didn’t attend a top undergraduate institution or work in a well-known research lab.  

On balance, we acknowledge that the GRE is an imperfect test and should not be used as the single deciding factor in admissions; however, we fear that excluding it altogether will introduce more, not less, bias into the admissions decision-making process. Thus, we have decided to keep the submission of GRE scores optional, but to recommend that students submit their scores if they are able to do so.  

We know that many students might expect that we are looking for near-perfect scores as a requirement for admission. We are not. We do not use a rigid threshold for GRE scores, and take it into consideration with other factors (e.g., strong performance in undergraduate statistics might be used to demonstrate quantitative abilities in place of strong performance on the quantitative section of the GRE). To be transparent about this, we note that our past 10 years’ of admitted PhD applicants have had scores on the GRE ranging on the Quantitative section from the 38th to the 98th percentile, and on the Verbal section ranging from the 59th to the 99th percentile.(2 )

We will continue to work toward determining how to make admissions decisions in a way that identifies the candidates who match best with what our PhD training program has to offer and in doing so may make further adjustments to our admissions requirements in future admissions cycles.  

(1) For a review of these issues, see: Woo, S. E., LeBreton, J. M., Keith, M. G., & Tay, L. (2023). Bias, Fairness, and Validity in Graduate-School Admissions: A Psychometric Perspective. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 18(1), 3–31. https://doi.org/10.1177/17456916211055374  

(2) Note: Test scores were not required for the past 3 years and so are largely unavailable for that period. 

• Resources for Applicants
• FAQ for Applicants

Inquire or Apply

Graduate School Admissions Inquiry Form  

Apply Online 

Course Descriptions 

PsyD vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?

Studying psychology provides a window into human behavior. Doctoral psychology programs teach both an understanding of how people think and analytical and reasoning skills to further success in various careers. But deciding to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology means dedicating yourself to the highest level of education available in the field and represents a commitment of several years and significant effort.

While both a doctor of psychology (PsyD) degree and a doctor of philosophy (PhD) promise remarkable opportunities for advancement, the two offer very different career outcomes. While a PhD puts you on a path to pursue research and further understanding, a PsyD allows you to practice as a psychologist. 

According to the  Bureau of Labor Statistics , demand for psychologists with both degrees is expected to continue growing at a rate of approximately 8% over the next decade as more and more individuals, organizations, and academic institutions have greater need of counseling services and insights into the way that people act, think, and engage with one another.

What Are PsyD and PhD In Psychology Degrees For?

While both a PsyD and a PhD provide you with a doctoral degree and the highest level of education in the field, the two provide different types of expertise, and it is important for you to understand their distinctions so that you can make the choice that best matches your goals.

A PhD in psychology trains you in research and statistical analysis in preparation for adding to the body of knowledge, either through your own scientific pursuits or by helping to educate others studying psychology . By contrast, PsyD studies focuses more extensively on providing psychological services, whether counseling or applying psychology’s principles to further an organization’s goals.

Though pursuing either one will not preclude you from crossing over to a career that’s more aligned to the other, choosing the degree that best suits your long-term interests provides you with the education that is best suited to your aspirations.

Picking Between A Doctor of Psychology or PhD In Psychology Program

To help you determine which of the two doctoral degrees is the best choice for you, let’s take a look at what each type of program entails and what type of future each prepares you for.

What is a PsyD?

A  doctor of psychology program  generally takes between 4-6 years to complete and prepares you for a career in clinical practice. It has less of an emphasis on research than human behavior and development, psychological assessment, and intervention.

Most programs require completion of approximately sixty credits of study, participation in 2,000-to-3,000 hours of clinical practice and internship, and preparation and presentation of a dissertation. 

Upon completion of the program, graduates demonstrate the understanding and skills needed to guide one-on-one, family and group therapy sessions, to guide organizational strategies around anticipated human behaviors and engagement, to conduct neuropsychological assessments, and to treat mental health problems and issues.

Who Should Get a PsyD?

Doctoral candidates best suited for a PsyD are those who want to engage directly with individuals, families or groups, using their education and training to provide service rather than conducting research.

Those enrolled in PsyD programs receive extensive training in assessment and intervention, on human development, and on the role of cultural and economic contributors, all with the goal of better facilitating their understanding of behavior. PsyD students also study the practical aspects of clinical psychology, including legal, ethical, and professional issues.

PsyD Careers and Salaries

With a PsyD degree you become prepared for professional practice within any number of applications of psychology science. A PsyD degree trains you to use your knowledge and training in service and practice, with an emphasis on assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and making improvements in the condition of and relations between humans in a variety of environments. Depending upon the career that they choose, their practice can include engaging with people in a clinical setting, at their workplace, in school, or elsewhere.

Typical careers held by those with a PsyD degree include:

• Median Salary: $51,340
• Career Outlook: +16% (2020-2030)

Family and marriage therapists work with couples and families with the goal of mediating and guiding the way that they engage with one another while providing coping strategies to improve family dynamics and to help those within these relationships deal with a wide range of issues, including behavioral problems, grief, domestic violence, marital conflicts, and substance abuse. 

Marriage and family therapists observe the interactions between the individuals in these groups and provide them with insights about troubling patterns, guidance on navigating crises, diagnosing mental health issues and disorders, and replacing disruptive or dysfunctional behaviors with alternatives that offer more positive engagement.

• Median Salary: $105,780
• Career Outlook: +8% (2020-2030)

The services of those holding doctoral degrees in psychology are increasingly in demand from a wide range of organizations and corporations seeking assistance with improving organizational behavior or providing coaching to managers and executives. These professionals apply their clinical skills in areas such as integrating systems theory or family therapy to companies hoping to address cultural issues or improve communication and cooperation within and between teams.

What is a PhD in Psychology?

A doctor of philosophy in psychology degree generally takes between 5-7 years to complete, and prepares you for a career in research and academia. The focus of a PhD in psychology program tends to be on statistics along with qualitative and quantitative research methods. The career goals of most students point towards teaching or scientific inquiry rather than private practice or direct engagement with patients.

Most PhD in psychology program require approximately a year-long internship and credit requirements that range between 60 and 125 credits. The programs require a significant level of concentration and are often so demanding that students need to dedicate themselves to the program on a full-time basis. The admission criteria into a PhD program tends to be more competitive than that of PsyD programs.

Once students in PhD in psychology programs successfully prepared and presented their dissertation, they have proven their command of the biological, intellectual and cognitive foundations of behavior, assessment, statistics and research techniques, research strategies, and more. They graduate prepared for careers in specialty areas including behavioral neuroscience, clinical psychology, human growth and development, with a particular emphasis on research and its application.

Who Should Get a PhD in Psychology?

In assessing whether you should pursue a PhD in psychology, you need to determine what type of career you hope to have and how you plan to apply your education. If your goal is to become a tenure-track professor at a research-oriented university or to dedicate yourself to academic research, then there is no doubt that a PhD is the right degree for you. The same is true if you hope to work in a business-oriented field such as market research or product development with an emphasis on consumer insights. 

The benefit of a PhD in psychology is its emphasis on research design and analytical skills, and that training can be applied to numerous fields that do not involve direct engagement with, assessment, diagnosis, or interventions with patients.

PhD in Psychology Careers and Salaries

Those who pursue a PhD in psychology tend to be less focused on the monetary benefits of their education than in the intellectual stimulation that they receive or the benefits that their education can provide to clients or to greater understanding of human behaviors gained through their efforts.

The career goals of those who opt for a PhD can include clinical roles, but more frequently veer towards professions that place them in a position of conducting research and applying their knowledge to educating students and providing insights that can be used by other fields. Possible careers for PhD graduates include:

• Median Salary: $82,180

The field of forensic psychology applies general principles of research in the field of clinical psychology to legal issues. This can include assessment, treatment, and evaluation of topics such as eyewitness identification, suggestibility, competence to testify, motivation and threat assessment. Forensic psychologists are often called on to provide custody evaluations, counseling services to crime victims, screening of law enforcement applicants and intervention and treatment for juvenile and adult offenders.

• Median Salary: $80,560
• Career Outlook: +12% (2020-2030)

Those who teach psychology are also frequently researchers who split their time between conducting scientific inquiry within an academic environment and teaching it to students at the undergraduate and graduate level. Professors with a PhD in Psychology gather, document and communicate psychological knowledge.

• Median Salary: $125,350
• Career Outlook: +9% (2020-2030)

The knowledge and training gained with a PhD in psychology is extremely valuable to numerous industries seeking greater understanding of human behavior, and this is particularly true of the world of politics. PhDs in psychology are well-positioned to guide candidates in the way that they present themselves to voters and to help legislators craft laws or discuss issues with their constituents, assessing what their priorities and perspectives are and how marketing efforts, speeches, votes and political positions could be received.

Best Psychology Schools

Choosing the right psychology program can be stressful, especially with so many options available. Using a  rigorous methodology , Universities.com considers these to be the 10 best psychology schools in the nation:

• Northwestern University
• Columbia University in the City of New York
• Lindsey Wilson College
• University of Pennsylvania
• Webster University
• Lamar University
• Liberty University
• Capella University
• Walden University
• University of Central Florida

To find more psychology schools, check out  our complete ranking of all psychology schools  in the nation.

If you’re looking for other schools that offer PdD programs on psychology, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the  perfect school for you !

PsyD Vs PhD At A Glance

Choosing between a PsyD and a PhD is a matter of personal choice, and your answer depends upon your personal goals. Though both doctor of psychology degrees provide you with the education, training and credentials to put you at the pinnacle of the field, there are important differences, including:

• A PsyD program better prepares you for a service-based psychology career geared towards counseling, while a PhD program better prepares you for a career geared towards discovery through research and academia.
• Acceptance into PsyD programs are generally less competitive than PhD programs.
• PsyD programs are better suited to online learning, while PhD programs favor in-person learning.
• PsyD program lengths generally take four-to-six years to complete, while PhD programs generally take five-to-eight years to complete.
• A PsyD curriculum is likely to include classes focused on assessment and intervention, while a PhD curriculum is likely to focus on statistics and analysis.

What to Look for In Psychology Doctoral Degree Programs

Doctoral degrees in psychology are offered in traditional, on-campus settings as well as online. Both options provide similarly high levels of education and the same curriculum requirements, often pairing students with an individual faculty advisor responsible for guiding their path to a doctoral degree.

There are many advantages to pursuing a degree online, including providing students the ability to choose a program based on its focus rather than on geographic proximity and allowing them to continue upholding family responsibilities. Despite this convenience, many students pursuing either a PsyD or a PhD choose an in-person program that allows them to fully immerse themselves in their studies.

As is the case with choosing between a PsyD or a PhD, there is no right or wrong choice. Students that choose online programs graduate with the same credentials as those who choose in-person programs, so each candidate should choose the option that best suits their personal needs.

Though requirements vary, most states require that psychologists counseling patients complete a doctoral degree in psychology and have a state-issued license. The requirements for these licenses generally include:

• Earning either a PsyD or a PhD from an institution of higher learning that has been accredited by the American Psychological Association
• Passing the  Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP )
• Fulfilling a minimum number of supervised clinical practice hours.

Many graduates  recommend  investigating the credentialing requirements of the states where they are interested in working to ensure that their doctoral degree properly prepares them and meets their standards.

The best way to ensure that the PsyD or PhD program you select prepares you for licensure is to select a program that has gone beyond the basic regional accreditation of institutions of higher learning and been recognized by the  American Psychological Association . This specialized accreditation is recognized by both the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education, and specifically addresses the high standards needed for professional education and training in psychology.

The APA currently  accredits  hundreds of programs throughout the nation, providing those interested in pursuing their doctoral degree an extensive range of offerings for their professional future.

Applying to Psychology Doctoral Programs

Choosing to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology represents a significant investment of time, money and effort with the anticipated outcome of becoming either a noted academician and scholar or an accomplished, difference-making professional. Entry to these programs is competitive, particularly for those seeking entry into one of the programs offering a PhD in psychology program, which generally only accept 10-15% of applicants.

The first step in the application process is similar to the one you likely pursued when applying to undergraduate programs: You need to identify the programs that best match your long-term goals and your personal needs, then address each of their application requirements by assembling needed materials including letters of recommendations and personal statements and ensuring that they are in each program’s possession well in advance of their deadlines.

Admission Requirements for PsyD and PhD Programs

Individuals choosing to pursue either a PsyD or a PhD come from a wide range of backgrounds and interests, and this is reflected in the fact that programs do not necessarily require that applicants possess an undergraduate degree in Psychology, though those who have not taken foundational courses likely need to investigate how they’ll need to supplement their education before proceeding with their doctoral degrees.

Acceptance into both PsyD and PhD programs generally requires:

• Transcripts from accredited baccalaureate program showing a minimum 3.0 GPA,  preferably in psychology
• Personal statement or statement of purpose
• Submission of scores on both the general GRE exam and the GRE subject exam in Psychology
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal Interview (in person or by phone or video conference)
• A PsyD is a doctoral degree in psychology. It is an indication that an individual has attained the highest level of education available in the study of psychology, but they are not a medical doctor.
• PsyD and PhD are both terminal degrees in psychology that indicate having attained the highest level of education and expertise in the field. The determination of which is better depends upon the goals of the individual pursuing the degree.
• The PsyD degree provides education and training geared towards clinical practice and a professional career in treating patients, while a PhD education focuses more heavily on research and academic pursuits. The PhD generally takes longer to attain.
• In the majority of states, psychologists are not able to write prescriptions for medication. Illinois, Louisiana and New Mexico permit licensed psychologists to qualify for prescribing authority after taking additional courses in psychopharmacology.

Check out our newsletter to stay updated on college updates, news, advice, and more.

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology: Which Is Right for Me?

Written by: psych degree starter editorial team   •  jun 7, 2024.

Choosing the right doctoral degree in psychology is a significant decision that can shape your career path and professional opportunities. With options like the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology, it’s essential to understand the differences and similarities between these degrees to make an informed choice. 

Both degrees offer unique benefits and cater to different career aspirations. Whether you are drawn to clinical practice or academic research, it’s important to consider your professional goals when comparing a PsyD versus a PhD in Psychology.

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology: Definitions

Understanding the fundamental differences between a PsyD and a PhD in Psychology is crucial for prospective students. Each degree has distinct goals, educational structures, and career outcomes.

What Is a Doctor of Psychology?

The Doctor of Psychology is a professional doctorate designed to prepare graduates for clinical practice. Introduced in the 1970s, the PsyD was created to address the need for more practitioners in the field of psychology.

Focus: The PsyD program emphasizes clinical skills and practical experience over research. Students are trained to work directly with clients in various therapeutic settings.

Curriculum: The curriculum includes extensive coursework in psychological theories, assessment techniques, and therapeutic interventions. It also involves a significant amount of supervised clinical practice.

Duration: A typical PsyD program takes four to six years to complete, including a full year of internship.

Career Paths: PsyD graduates often pursue careers as clinical psychologists, therapists, or counselors, working in settings such as private practices, hospitals, and mental health clinics.

What Is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology?

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is a research-oriented degree aimed at advancing the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The PhD is one of the oldest and most recognized doctoral degrees in psychology.

Focus: The PhD program is centered on research, data analysis, and theoretical exploration. Students are trained to conduct original research and contribute to the academic body of knowledge in psychology.

Curriculum: The curriculum includes rigorous coursework in research methods, statistics, and experimental design, along with specialized courses in various psychology subfields. A substantial portion of the program is dedicated to conducting research and writing a dissertation.

Duration: PhD programs typically take five to seven years to complete, depending on the nature of the research and dissertation work.

Career Paths: PhD graduates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or applied psychology settings. They may work as university professors, researchers, or clinical psychologists, among other roles.

In summary, while both the PsyD and PhD in Psychology are doctoral-level degrees that lead to careers in the field of psychology, their primary focus areas and career outcomes differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help you determine which path aligns best with your professional goals and interests.

Comparing PsyD and PhD in Psychology

To make an informed decision between a PsyD and a PhD in Psychology, it is important to compare their key similarities and differences. This comparison highlights the distinct educational paths and career opportunities each degree offers.

Key Similarities

While the PsyD and PhD are distinct degrees, they share several commonalities:

Doctoral Level: Both the PsyD and PhD are doctoral-level degrees, requiring advanced coursework and extensive training.

Licensure: Graduates of both programs are eligible to become licensed psychologists, provided they meet state-specific licensure requirements.

Foundational Coursework: Both degrees require coursework in core areas of psychology, including human development, psychopathology, and ethics.

Clinical Training: Students in both programs undergo supervised clinical training, although the extent and focus may differ.

Key Differences

The PsyD and PhD programs diverge significantly in several key areas:

Focus: The PsyD focuses on clinical practice and direct patient care, whereas the PhD emphasizes research and academic scholarship.

Duration: PsyD programs generally take four to six years to complete, while PhD programs often require five to seven years.

Dissertation Requirement: PhD students must complete a research-based dissertation, whereas PsyD students may have alternative capstone projects or dissertations with a clinical focus.

Career Paths: PsyD graduates typically work in clinical settings, while PhD graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, or applied psychology.

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology: Education Structure and Curriculum

The structure and curriculum of PsyD and PhD programs are designed to align with their respective focuses on clinical practice and research. Understanding these structures can help prospective students choose the program that best suits their career goals.

PsyD Structure and Curriculum

The PsyD program is structured to provide comprehensive clinical training and practical experience:

Coursework: Students take courses in psychological assessment, intervention techniques, and evidence-based practices.

Practicum: Extensive supervised practicum experiences are integral to the PsyD curriculum, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Internship: A full-year internship is typically required, offering hands-on clinical experience.

Capstone Project: Some programs may require a clinical dissertation or a capstone project focused on practical applications of psychology.

PhD Structure and Curriculum

The PhD program emphasizes research skills and academic scholarship:

Coursework: Students engage in advanced coursework in research methods, statistics, and experimental psychology.

Research: PhD students are expected to conduct original research, often leading to publications in academic journals.

Teaching: Many PhD programs include teaching assistantships, providing experience in instructing undergraduate courses.

Dissertation: A significant portion of the program is dedicated to the dissertation, a substantial research project that contributes new knowledge to the field of psychology.

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology: Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that educational programs meet established standards of quality and rigor. It is a crucial factor for students to consider when choosing between PsyD and PhD programs.

PsyD Accreditation

Accreditation for PsyD programs ensures that they meet professional standards for clinical training:

APA Accreditation: The American Psychological Association (APA) is the primary accrediting body for PsyD programs. 

Program Standards: Accredited programs must demonstrate that they provide comprehensive training in clinical skills, ethical practice, and professional development.

Importance of Accreditation: Attending an accredited program is critical for eligibility for licensure and ensures that the education received meets professional standards.

PhD Accreditation

Accreditation for PhD programs focuses on the quality of research training and academic rigor:

APA Accreditation: The APA also accredits PhD programs in clinical psychology, ensuring they meet high standards of training and education. Attending an APA-accredited PsyD or PhD program is essential for licensure in many states.

PCSAS Accreditation: The Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) accredits PhD programs with a strong emphasis on clinical science and research.

Benefits of Accreditation: Accredited PhD programs are recognized for their commitment to excellence in research and education, which is important for career advancement and licensure.

Choosing an accredited program, whether pursuing a PsyD or PhD, is essential for ensuring a high-quality education that meets professional standards and supports future career success.

Career Options for PsyD and PhD Graduates

Both PsyD and PhD graduates have a wide range of career options available to them. However, the specific paths often differ based on the focus and training of each degree.

PsyD Careers

Graduates with a PsyD degree are well-prepared for careers in clinical practice. They often work directly with clients in various therapeutic settings.

Clinical Psychologist: PsyD holders frequently work as clinical psychologists, providing assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health issues.

Private Practice: Many PsyD graduates establish private practices, offering therapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, and families.

Hospitals and Clinics: PsyD professionals are employed in hospitals, mental health clinics, and rehabilitation centers, where they collaborate with other healthcare providers.

Community Mental Health: PsyD graduates may work in community mental health centers, providing services to underserved populations.

PhD Careers

PhD graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, and applied psychology settings.

Academic Positions: Many PhD holders become university professors, conducting research and teaching undergraduate and graduate courses.

Research Institutions : PhD graduates may work in research institutions, leading studies on various aspects of psychology and contributing to scientific knowledge.

Clinical Practice: Some PhD graduates also work as clinical psychologists, particularly those who specialize in clinical psychology during their training.

Consulting: PhD holders may work as consultants, applying their expertise to solve problems in organizational, forensic, or health psychology.

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology: Salary and Job Outlook

Understanding the salary potential and job outlook for PsyD and PhD graduates is essential for making an informed decision about which degree to pursue.

PsyD Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , the median annual salary for all psychologists, including clinical, counseling, and school psychologists, was $92,740 as of May 2023. However, salaries can vary widely based on geographic location, experience, and industry.

Private Practice: Clinical and counseling psychologists earned a median salary of $96,100 in 2023, according to the BLS. 

Geographic Variations: Salaries can differ significantly by location. For example, clinical and counseling psychologists in California and New Jersey earned higher salaries than those in other states in 2023.

PhD holders in psychology can expect a range of salaries depending on their specific career path and industry.

Academic Positions: According to the BLS, the median salary for postsecondary psychology teachers was approximately $82,140 per year in 2023.

Clinical Practice: PhD graduates working in clinical settings can expect salaries similar to those of PsyD graduates.

PsyD Job Outlook

The job outlook for PsyD graduates is promising, with growing demand for clinical practitioners:

Growth Rate: The BLS projects an 11% growth rate for clinical and counseling psychologists from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Demand for Services: Increasing awareness of mental health issues and the need for psychological services in schools, hospitals, and mental health centers contribute to the demand for clinical psychologists.

PhD Job Outlook

PhD graduates also have a favorable job outlook, particularly in academic and research settings:

Academic Opportunities: The demand for postsecondary psychology teachers is expected to grow 5% between 2022 and 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Research Roles: Opportunities in research are robust, with continued funding for psychological studies and applied research in various industries.

Specialized Fields: PhD holders in specialized areas of psychology, such as neuropsychology or industrial-organizational psychology, may see higher demand and job growth.

According to the BLS, the overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, driven by the need for psychological services in schools, hospitals, and mental health centers, as well as in businesses and research organizations.

Choosing between a PsyD and a PhD involves considering both the potential salary and job outlook, ensuring that the chosen path aligns with personal and professional goals.

Tips for Choosing Between a PsyD and PhD

Selecting the right doctoral program in psychology depends on several factors, including career goals, personal interests, and professional aspirations. Here are some tips to help you decide between a PsyD and a PhD.

Assess Your Career Goals

Clinical Practice: If your primary interest lies in providing therapy and working directly with clients, a PsyD might be the better choice. This degree is tailored for those who want to engage in hands-on clinical work.

Research and Academia: If you are passionate about conducting research, teaching at a university level, or contributing to academic knowledge, a PhD may be more suitable. The PhD program focuses heavily on research methodologies and academic scholarship.

Evaluate Program Structure and Curriculum

PsyD Programs: These programs often have a more structured and practice-oriented curriculum. Consider the extensive clinical training and practicum experiences that are integral to PsyD programs.

PhD Programs: These programs emphasize research and typically offer more flexibility in terms of research opportunities and specialization areas. Reflect on whether you prefer a curriculum that includes a significant research component.

Consider Financial and Time Commitments

Program Duration: PsyD programs generally take four to six years to complete, while PhD programs can take five to seven years. Think about how much time you are willing to invest in your education.

Financial Costs: Both programs can be costly, but PhD programs often provide opportunities for funding through research assistantships and teaching assistantships. Evaluate your financial situation and funding opportunities for each type of program.

Research Accreditation and Program Reputation

Accreditation: Ensure that the programs you are considering are accredited by recognized bodies such as the APA for PsyD and PhD programs or the PCSAS for PhD programs.

Reputation: Research the reputation of the programs and institutions. Look into faculty expertise, research facilities, and clinical training opportunities.

Utilizing available resources can help you make an informed decision about pursuing a PsyD or PhD in Psychology. Here are some recommended resources:

American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides valuable information on accredited PsyD and PhD programs, licensure requirements, and career resources for psychologists. Visit the APA or APA Accreditation website.

Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS): PCSAS accredits PhD programs with a strong emphasis on clinical science and research. Learn more on the PCSAS website.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlook, salaries, and employment trends for psychologists. Explore these resources on the BLS website.

Payscale: Payscale provides salary information for various psychology-related careers, helping you understand potential earnings. Visit the Payscale site for more information.

University Websites: Many universities provide detailed information about their PsyD and PhD programs, including admission requirements, curriculum details, and faculty profiles. Check out the psychology department pages of universities you are interested in.

Explore Your Career Options With a PsyD or a PhD in Psychology

Choosing between a PsyD and a PhD in Psychology is a critical decision that can shape your professional future. Both degrees offer unique advantages and cater to different career paths. The PsyD is ideal for those passionate about clinical practice and direct patient care, while the PhD is suited for individuals interested in research and academia. 

By carefully evaluating your career goals, program structure, financial and time commitments, and accreditation, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your aspirations. You can benefit from utilizing the resources available to you, and taking the time to research and reflect on what will best support your long-term professional and personal goals in the field of psychology.

Related Articles

Jun 11, 2024 June 11, 2024

How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist?

What can you do with a doctorate in psychology.

Jun 7, 2024 June 7, 2024

LCSW vs. Psychologist: Differences and Similarities

• -Associates
• -Doctorates
• -Accreditation

PhD Admission FAQ

General Information

When is the application due and how do i apply .

NOW CLOSED- The application is due on  November 30, 2023  at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. 

Apply using the  application portal .

How long does it take to get a PhD in Psychology at Stanford?

The PhD program is designed to be completed in five years of full-time study. Actual time will depend on students' prior background, progress, and research requirements. The minimum residency requirement for the PhD degree is 135 units of completed coursework and research units.

What are the requirements for the PhD degree in Psychology?

Please consult the  PhD Requirements page .

What are the different subfields within the graduate program in Psychology?

• Affective Science
• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Social Psychology

What is the Department's teaching requirement?

PhD students must complete at least five quarters of teaching assistantship (TA) under the supervision of a faculty member. Students are required to attend a TA training workshop in their second year. In addition, students are encouraged to take advantage of department and university teacher training programs. Students for whom English is a second language are expected to acquire sufficient fluency in English. All international students must be approved by  Stanford’s EFS department . 

How many students apply to the Stanford Psychology PhD? How many are admitted? What are the demographics?

Stanford provides public reports with summary data about graduate programs and graduate admissions. Please consult the public dashboards published by Stanford's office of Institutional Research & Decision Support on  doctoral admissions ,  doctoral enrollment and demographics , and  doctoral completion and time-to-degree . 

Is there a standalone Master of Arts program in Psychology?

The Department of Psychology does not offer a terminal Master’s degree program. Current doctoral students within the Department or in another Stanford graduate program may apply to be awarded a Master of Arts in Psychology during the course of their PhD program.

Does your department have a program in Clinical Psychology? Are you accredited by the APA?

No. Our department does not have a program in Clinical Psychology. As such, we are not accredited by the APA.

Do you have any advice about getting into grad school?

The Stanford School of Humanities and Sciences offers an online resource for prospective graduate school applicants:  Guide on Getting Into Grad School . We encourage applicants to take advantage of this resource.

Financial Support

What is the annual cost of attending your program.

All students admitted to the Psychology PhD program receive five years of 12-month funding. Financial support is provided through a combination of fellowship stipend and salary, and assistantship salary and tuition allowance. Information about the cost of attendance and funding options are available from the  Financial Aid Office .

What type of financial support do you offer?

All students admitted to the Psychology PhD program receive five years of 12-month funding. Financial support is provided through a combination of fellowship stipend and salary, and assistantship salary and tuition allowance. Funding is contingent upon satisfactory academic progress. Students are encouraged to pursue fellowships offered by the University and by national organizations, such as the National Science Foundation.

Stanford University also offers the  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  program, designed to build a multidisciplinary community of Stanford graduate students dedicated to finding creative solutions to the world's greatest challenges. The program awards up to 100 high-achieving students every year with full funding to pursue graduate education at Stanford, including the PhD in Psychology. To be considered, you must apply to Knight-Hennessy Scholars and separately apply to the Psychology Department. Note that the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program application deadline is in the spring  before  the autumn application cycle.

Do you offer support for the summer months?

Yes, funding is offered for 12 months a year for 5 full years, including 5 summers.

Preparing for Admission

Am i eligible to apply if my undergraduate major is not in psychology.

An undergraduate major in Psychology is not required; applicants from other backgrounds can apply and be admitted. All applicants should have sufficient foundational knowledge and research experience prior to the program to allow them to go straight into graduate-level coursework and conduct research.

My undergraduate degree was completed outside the United States. Is my degree eligible? 

Please refer to the Stanford Graduate Admission Office's table of  minimum level requirements for international academic credentials . These credential requirements are set by the University and nonnegotiable.

If I have prior graduate work, can it be transferred to the PhD program?

No, the Department of Psychology does not allow the transfer of unit credits from your previous program.

How competitive is admission to the PhD program?

Admission to our program is highly competitive. About 10-15 admits enter the program each year and are chosen from a pool of over 600 applicants. These students are selected on the basis of a strong academic background as demonstrated by previous coursework, research experience, and letters of recommendation. Please be assured that the Department reviews each application very carefully and makes decisions on an individual basis.

The Application Process

How do i apply.

Please visit the  PhD Admissions page  for instructions on how to apply to the Psychology PhD Program, graduate application requirements, and the link to the online application. 

Is there an application fee? If so, can I apply for a fee waiver?

The fee to apply for graduate study at Stanford is $125, see  Application Fee . Fee waivers are available for some applicants. Please visit Graduate Admissions for information on applying for an  Application Fee Waiver .

Can I submit another application to a different department within the University?

You may only apply to one degree program per academic year. However, you may apply concurrently to one departmental program and to a professional school program (law, medicine, or business).

I'm interested in the joint JD/PhD in Law and Psychology - how does it work?

Students interested in the JD/Ph.D. joint degree must apply and gain entrance separately to the School of Law and the Psychology Ph.D. program. Additionally, students must secure permission from each degree program to pursue the joint degree. Interest in both degrees should be noted on the student’s admissions applications and may be considered by the admissions committee of each program. Alternatively, an enrolled student in either the Law School or the Psychology department may apply to add the other degree and undertake the joint degree program, preferably during their first year of study. Students participating in the JD/Ph.D. joint degree program are not eligible to transfer and receive credit for a masters, or other degree, towards the Psychology Ph.D.

Students interested in the MPP/Ph.D. joint degree must apply and gain entrance to the Public Policy program’s MPP degree and the Psychology Ph.D. program. Students should note their interest in both degrees on their graduate admissions applications. Additionally, students must secure permission from each degree program to pursue the joint degree

Which faculty are accepting new students this year?

All active faculty are potentially accepting new students each year. In your application, we ask you to list the top 3 faculty you are most interested in working with. Multiple readers will review your application in full regardless of who you list. 

My institution does not report GPAs on a 4.0 grading scale. How should I report my GPA on the application?

Please do not convert your GPA to a 4.0 grading scale. You should enter “0.00” for the GPA and use the “Unconverted GPA” and “Unconverted GPA System” fields instead. A link to detailed instructions for reporting GPA is located near these fields on the application.

I attended multiple undergraduate institutions. In what order should I list them on the application?

The institution where you earned or expect to earn your Bachelor's degree should be listed as "Post-Secondary Institution 1." The remaining institutions don’t have to follow a particular order. List all institutions that were attended for at least one full academic year. Please note that you must submit a transcript for all courses taken towards your undergraduate degree, including those from your nonprimary institutions.

When should I submit my transcripts if my degree will still be in progress at the time of the application deadline?

The most current version of your unofficial transcript must be submitted as part of your electronic application, even if the grades from your fall term are not available. The absence of these grades will have no impact on the review of your application. If you are admitted and enrolled, we will ask you to submit your final transcript showing all grades and proof of degree conferral.

Should I submit official transcripts?

At the time of your initial application, please only submit your unofficial transcripts. Submit the unofficial transcripts as part of your electronic application, per the instructions in the application portal. A short list of applicants who move forward to the next stage of the review process will be contacted with instructions for submitting official transcripts at a later stage. 

It may be helpful to understand the difference.  Unofficial transcripts  are transcripts issued by your college or university directly to you, the student, which you then submit to Stanford for review. Official transcripts  are transcripts issued by your college or university directly to Stanford University, usually by secure electronic transfer and sometimes in hard copy in signed and sealed envelopes. The key difference is that an  official transcript  has never been directly handled by the applicant.

Do you have a minimum GPA score?

We do not require applicants to have a minimum GPA for consideration, and we do not release information about the average GPAs of accepted students. As a guideline, successful applicants typically earn undergraduate cumulative GPAs among the top of their class. However, please keep in mind that admission to our graduate program depends on a combination of factors, and all areas of a student’s application are weighed similarly when applications are reviewed. If our research areas meet your educational goals, we encourage you to submit an application. 

May I contact the faculty directly during the application process?

Applicants are not prohibited from reaching out to faculty directly during the application cycle. However, please understand that our faculty are extremely busy, and it is quite possible that you will receive either a very short response or no response at all. This does not mean the faculty are not interested in your application. All applications will be read and reviewed in full during the formal review process. Note that per Department policy, all faculty are potentially accepting graduate students in any given cycle, so you do not need to contact faculty in advance to see if that specific mentor is accepting students for the coming year.

Can I meet with Department staff either by phone or email before I apply to discuss my application materials or ask general questions about the program?

No, the Department staff do not have meetings with or provide individualized advising for prospective applicants. Please understand that this is a matter of bandwidth and equity. We do not have the ability to offer personalized service to all interested applicants, so we do not offer them at all. By Department policy, our staff do not provide any evaluative feedback on prospective applicants' materials, so please do not contact us with CVs, academic histories, etc to request feedback or ask about odds for acceptance. For support in crafting your application, we recommend that you turn to your existing network of mentors (e.g., your letter writers) and/or the resources offered by your current or prior academic institution(s).

TOEFL and GRE

Is the general gre required is the subject gre required.

No, the Stanford Psychology PhD program does not require the general GRE or the subject GRE. We will not be collecting any information related to GRE exam scores on the application. Please do not submit GRE scores to Stanford for our program.

What is the TOEFL exam, and am I required to take it?

The TOEFL is a standardized test of English language proficiency. Per University policy, the TOEFL exam is required for international, non-native English speakers who apply to any Stanford graduate program. 

The TOEFL score requirements are waived for international non-native English speakers who have received a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an institution in the United States or another English-speaking country. Therefore, applicants with these degrees from the U.S., Australia, Canada (except Quebec), New Zealand, Singapore, Ireland, and the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales) are exempt from taking the TOEFL and do not need to submit the TOEFL waiver request form.

When should I take the TOEFL?

The TOEFL must be taken by the published application deadline. 

What is the minimum TOEFL score required for admission?

Please visit the website of  Stanford's Office of Graduate Admissions  for more information on the University’s minimum requirements.

If my TOEFL score falls below the University’s minimum, am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, you may still apply. If your TOEFL scores fall below the University's minimum requirements and you are admitted, Stanford may require you to take an English placement exam and/or English classes.

May I submit the IELTS instead of the TOEFL to demonstrate English proficiency?

The IELTS is not accepted at Stanford University; only the TOEFL is accepted to provide proof of proficiency in English.

How do I request a TOEFL exemption or waiver?

For all questions related to TOEFL exemptions or waivers please refer to the website of  Stanford’s Office of Graduate Admissions . Please note that the central office makes all final decisions regarding TOEFL waivers; the Department of Psychology is not involved in the approval of TOEFL waivers.

How do I check the status of my TOEFL scores?

Log in to your application account. It may take up to two weeks after submitting your application or sending the scores (whichever occurs later) for your official scores to show as received. Processing may be delayed or halted if the name or birthdate on the score report does not exactly match the information on your application.

Why does my TOEFL status show as “Not Applicable” even though I submitted a TOEFL score?

This may be because you listed English as your first language in the application. Please note that “first language” refers to your native language.

Is there a department code for ETS to use in order to send in my scores?

No, there are no individual department code. Use the Stanford University score recipient code  4704  to send your TOEFL scores.

Statements of Purpose

How long should my statement of purpose be.

We strongly recommend that your statement of purpose be around two pages in length.

What should I include in my statement of purpose?

Please consult the Stanford Graduate Admissions  FAQ page  for more information on the Statement of Purpose.

Letters of Recommendation

When are the letters of recommendation due.

The letters of recommendation have the same deadline as the rest of the application. This year, the deadline is  November 30, 2023.

How many recommendations do I need, and who should I ask to be my recommenders?

Applicants need three recommendations from faculty or others qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study. At least one evaluation and letter should be from a faculty member at the last school you attended as a full-time student (unless you have been out of school for more than five years). Substitutions for faculty recommendations may include work associates or others who can comment on your academic potential for graduate work.

My recommender will not be able to submit his/her letter by the application deadline. Will my application still be considered?

Letters of recommendation must be submitted by the application deadline. As such, we strongly encourage you to contact your recommenders directly to remind them of our deadline. If your recommender misses the deadline, please contact  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . Depending on the circumstances, Department staff may collect the letter via email and forward it to the faculty to add to your file. That said, the program expects applicants to do everything possible to ensure that letters are submitted on time via the secure online system.

Can my recommenders submit their letters via email, fax, or postal service?

No. Recommenders must submit their letters via Stanford’s online recommender system.

My recommenders are having technical difficulties with the online letters of recommendation process. Who should they contact?

Should any of your recommenders experience technical difficulties with the online letters of recommendation process, please refer them to our application database provider's letters of recommendation help page or have them submit a Help Request Form directly to our application database provider.

Additional Materials and Updates

I realized i made a mistake on my application and/or uploaded the wrong version of my documents. what do i do.

Depending on the timing and the nature of the error, our staff may be able to correct your application. Please send an email to  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . Include your full name, a complete description of the error, and attach the correct version of the file (if applicable). The Department reserves the right to decline to update your application after the deadline has passed. Requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

If you need to change your recommenders, please use the Activity Status Page. Note: The order of recommenders cannot be changed.

May I submit a resume/CV, list of publications, etc. as part of my application?

Applicants are permitted to upload one additional document to the online application, under the “Document Uploads” section.

Is there an interview process? 

Yes, our faculty interview prospective students before making final admission decisions. 

When are the interviews?

The interviews for the current admissions cycle are likely to be in February 2021. We anticipate that all interviews will take place virtually.

When can I expect to find out the decision on my application?

The Department of Psychology aims to issue all offers of admission to PhD degree applicants by the end of March.

I applied in a prior cycle and was not admitted. Can I apply again?

Applicants who applied in prior cycles and were previously not admitted are welcome to reapply if they can demonstrate significant progress made since they last applied. We encourage you to use your Statement of Purpose to explain this progress.

All documents must be resubmitted with a new application. We do not keep records from past applications.

I still have questions!

If you have questions that are not answered on this page or the Stanford Graduate Admissions  FAQ page , please email  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . If your questions are already covered on this page, your email may not receive a response.

Note that our Department staff are experts on the logistics and administration of the application, but do not answer questions related to research topics or faculty fit. Per Department policy, Department staff will not offer any evaluative feedback on application materials or applicants' academic background. Unfortunately, due to the extremely high volume of inquiries, we cannot provide individual status updates for applicants at any point in the process.

What’s the difference between a Ph.D. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology?

Considering a doctorate in clinical psychology? There are some key differences between the Ph.D. and Psy.D. that you’ll need to understand.

More so than other branches of psychology, the field of clinical psychology is particularly concerned with the assessment and treatment of patients diagnosed with mental illness. If you are considering earning a doctorate  in this field, it is first important to determine whether a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program is the best option for your future goals. What is the difference between a Psy.D. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology ? Below, we explore some key differences between the Ph.D. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology programs.

What is a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology?

Since 1948, the American Psychological Association (APA) has officially promoted Ph.D. programs in clinical psychology. A doctor of philosophy, or Ph.D., generally focuses on  research practices and the philosophy of a given field. The intention of this program is usually to prepare students to teach and/or conduct essential scientific research that can help advance the field.

Most Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology programs take  five to seven  years to complete beyond the  undergraduate degree. Most programs incorporate a teaching element, and all require a written dissertation.

What is a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology?

Compared to the Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, the doctor of psychology, or Psy.D., is primarily concerned with the practical applications of psychology. According to the APA, “the focus of Psy.D. programs is to train students to engage in careers that apply scientific knowledge of psychology and deliver empirically based service to individuals, groups, and organizations.”

The Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology typically takes four to six years to complete after earning an undergraduate degree. Students also have an opportunity to pursue specializations in certain areas, such as neuropsychology.

While Psy.D. programs are designed to prepare students for careers as practitioners in psychology, students are not prevented from pursuing a career in academia. Most Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology programs also feature practicums or internships, and many also require a written dissertation.

What’s the difference between Ph.D. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology?

The main difference between a Psy.D. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology is the specific focus and application of each program. In summary, there are several key differences between a Ph.D. and a Psy.D. The most prominent difference is each program’s focus. If you seek a career in academia, a Ph.D. may be right for you. The Psy.D. was built specifically for those hoping to apply the principles of psychology in professional practice with patients.

Additionally, the program lengths differ. A Ph.D. typically takes five to eight years to complete, while a Psy.D. takes four to six years.

Psy.D.	Ph.D.
Clinical focused and practice-based	Research-based
Higher acceptance rates	Competitive acceptance rates
4-6 years to graduate	5-8 years to graduate
Doctor of psychology	Doctor of philosophy

What to Expect from a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

How is a psy.d. in clinical psychology program structured.

In general, Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology programs are designed to advance a graduate’s understanding of how to provide tangible psychological services. Some Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology programs, including programs offered by The Chicago School , follow the Engaged-Practitioner model. This means students undergo training primarily for field practice in combination with a secondary focus on scholarship. APA -accredited Psy.D. programs often offer up to three years of practicum opportunities to prepare students for their APA-required internship.

The practicum provides essential hands-on experience for aspiring practitioners. Psy.D. programs offer this experience to better prepare graduates for their clinical careers—something Ph.D. students will not experience.

Expertise for both the clinic and the classroom

While Psy.D. in Clincal Psychology programs focus on practice, they still prepare students who pursue a career in academia.

Many  Psy.D. graduates become faculty members while managing a clinical practice. So, don’t worry that earning a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology will hinder you from entering academia. Graduates from Psy.D. programs can pursue clinical practice, teaching, or even both.

Greater student accommodation

Psy.D. programs are generally able to admit more students than Ph.D. programs at other schools. This is because Psy.D. programs are often housed within schools concentrated on psychology, as opposed to schools that admit doctoral students to a wide range of programs.

The Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology is The Chicago School’s legacy program. It was our first program ever offered in 1979, which has allowed us to expand our offering of accredited Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology programs at our campuses around the U.S. and provide greater access to this type of education to a wide range of applicants.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology?

Students in Psy.D. programs can expect to spend fewer years in the classroom than Ph.D. candidates. In general, a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program can take four to six years to complete.

At The Chicago School, students can usually expect to spend about five years in the program, although this time can vary depending on each person’s specific circumstance. The time also includes the APA-accredited internship.

For aspiring doctorate in psychology graduates, the first step is to apply to an APA-accredited Psy.D. program. This ensures that your degree will meet the qualifications for licensing in any state.

Learn more about The Chicago School

Are you interested in learning more about clinical psychology programs available at The Chicago School? Fill out the form below to request more information or apply today through our application portal .

Zeen is a next generation WordPress theme. It’s powerful, beautifully designed and comes with everything you need to engage your visitors and increase conversions.

• PsyD vs PhD – Differences Explained
• Types of Doctorates

A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology, whilst a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. Both are doctoral degrees, but their focuses and goals differ. A PsyD focuses on the application of knowledge and aims to train students in clinical psychology. A PhD in psychology focuses on research and adding new knowledge, often leading to a career in research or academia, rather than clinical work.

Introduction

Many graduate students who possess a psychology degree look to improve their career outlook through postgraduate study. In particular, aspiring psychologists look to complete a doctoral degree. There are two popular choices for these psychology students, the PsyD and the PhD. Please note this article has been written for the perspective of a US audience.

What is a PsyD and a PhD?

There are two types of doctoral degrees in psychology: a PsyD and a PhD. Here is what they stand for:

• A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology.
• A PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy.

Both doctoral degree programs prepare students for careers in psychology, but their goals and purposes differ.

A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree focuses on the practical and clinical applications of psychology. The PsyD program provides clinical training to doctoral students teaching you how to apply scientific knowledge of psychology and how to work with patients in a professional environment. A PhD in psychology places a greater emphasis on research methods and the theoretical concepts of the subject, requiring students to contribute novel findings to their area of research.

Is Someone With a PsyD a Doctor?

A PsyD is a doctoral degree, in the same way a PhD is, and those who possess one use the title of doctor in their name (e.g. Dr. Surname). To be clear however, PsyD holders are not medical doctors unless they also hold a medical degree, such as an MD in the US or MBBS in the UK.

Both doctorates are valuable to possess, but PsyDs have less international recognition and are more commonplace in the US.

Is a PsyD or PhD Better?

Neither degree is better than the other, but one may be more suitable for you, based on your career goals.

Generally, PsyD programs are suited to students who wish to pursue a career in providing psychological services in a clinical setting. In comparison, PhD programs are suited to those who wish to pursue a career path in research or academia.

This does not mean that those with a PsyD degree cannot pursue a career in research or academia, nor does it mean that those with a PhD cannot practice clinical psychology.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PsyD?

We are often asked “how many years is a PsyD?”. Although the duration of a PsyD varies depending on the institution, the typical program lasts 4 to 6 years. This usually includes a yearlong clinical internship toward the end of the program.

In comparison, a PhD in Psychology typically takes 6 to 8 years to complete.

A PsyD program is usually less expensive than a PhD psychology program. However, funding is more widely available for PhD programs, which means PsyD programs are often associated with higher levels of student debt.

What is the Difference Between a PsyD and PhD Program?

As mentioned previously, PsyD programs are designed to focus on the direct application of scientific knowledge. Coursework and topics of study include human behavior, providing clinical care to patients, assessment & diagnosis, therapy, and mental health conditions. This may involve a clinical training program and trainees undertaking clinical placements.

PhD programs focus on the theory behind psychology. Topics of study include analyzing data, statistical models, and research methodology.

There is some overlap between the two doctoral programs. PsyD students may still study data analyzation, and PhD students will still learn about the clinical practice of psychology and may gain clinical experience to aid their professional development.

Though the application process may be similar, PhD programs in psychology tend to be more competitive and have lower acceptance rates than PsyD programs

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Does a PsyD Require a Dissertation?

Some PsyD programs require students to complete a written dissertation or thesis . Those that do will require the dissertation or thesis to address an applied clinical problem.

Most PsyD programs do not require submission of a dissertation or thesis. Instead, a PsyD student is required to complete an internship (also referred to as a practicum) and carry out clinical work at the end of their doctorate degree program. These internships are typically a year long and assess your clinical skills in a professional practice on actual patients.

What Jobs Can You Get With a PsyD?

The PsyD program follows the ‘practitioner-scholar’ model, engaging in practice-oriented study. This allows those with a doctor of psychology degree to pursue a wide range of career options, including:

• Clinical Psychologist,
• Counselling psychologist,
• Mental health counselor,
• School psychologist,
• Psychotherapist,
• Consultant,
• Licensed psychologist.

It should be noted that PsyD holders can operate in a broad range of professional environments and clinical settings such as hospitals, correctional facilities, private practices, mental health clinics, social work and schools.

In comparison, the PhD program follows the ‘scientist-practitioner’ model which prepares the doctoral student for a career in research & academia. Typical destinations for a PhD student include:

• Higher Education (university professor/lecturer),
• Licensed Psychologist,
• Researcher.

The career opportunities with a doctoral degree in psychology are also dependent on the specific research area of the doctoral program. Research areas can include forensic psychology, health psychology, counselling psychology, social psychology, social science, applied psychology, educational psychology, psychological assessment, social care, cognitive behavioral psychology and psychological therapies.

Whichever method you choose to attain your doctorate in psychology, know that you will have invaluable skills and experience that make you a valuable asset in a number of industries not just within clinical psychology.

Browse PhDs Now

Join thousands of students.

Join thousands of other students and stay up to date with the latest PhD programmes, funding opportunities and advice.

This page has been archived and is no longer being updated regularly.

Doctoral degrees in psychology: How are they different, or not so different?

Doctoral degrees in psychology offer individuals preparation to conduct scientific research, professional practice or both. Most individuals receive either the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree. Although each of these degrees is designed to engage students in deep knowledge and skills within a subfield of psychology, there are substantial differences in the type of training and career plans of individuals with these degrees. Finding the best-fitting program for an individual student begins with understanding these differences.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD is the most common degree conferred in psychology and is generally offered at either private or public research universities. 1  PhD degrees are intended for students interested in generating new knowledge through scientific research (i.e., setting up experiments, collecting data, applying statistical and analytical techniques) and/or gaining teaching experience . PhD graduate students receive substantial training in research methods and statistics in order to independently produce new scientific knowledge and are often required to produce a dissertation to demonstrate research competency. Students enrolling in PhD programs may also be interested in pursuing professional careers in applied work — such as health services, counseling in school settings and consulting in businesses and organizations in addition to research and academic work.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

The PsyD degree came into existence in the 1970s as an alternative to the PhD for those more interested in providing psychological services than conducting disciplinary research. The PsyD degree is generally offered in professional schools of psychology — either affiliated with research or teaching universities or housed in a free-standing graduate school. 2  The focus of PsyD programs is to train students to engage in careers that apply scientific knowledge of psychology and deliver empirically based service to individuals, groups and organizations. Most programs require students to write a thesis or dissertation, and students may use quantitative or qualitative methodologies to demonstrate how psychological research is applied to human behavior.

Both PsyD and PhD programs can prepare students to be licensed psychologists, and training in these types of programs prepares graduates to take state licensing exams (licenses are awarded by individual states, not graduate programs). 3  Many states require graduates to have attended accredited graduate programs to ensure that all students have minimum training and competency necessary for treating patients and serving clients. APA accredits doctoral programs in clinical, counseling and school psychology, and you can find a list of these programs on the APA Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation website.

When you’re gathering information about particular programs, it is important you understand what training and education the program provides so you are aware of what skills and abilities you will acquire and how those prepare you for a career after you get your doctorate. There is no “best” doctoral degree in psychology: There are, however, “best-fits” for your academic and professional goals. Please visit the Office of Graduate and Postgraduate Education and Training website for more resources on graduate study in psychology. The APA Office of Program Consultation also provides further details on the distinctions between PhD and PsyD degrees in its Standards of Accreditation for Health Service Psychology (PDF, 222KB).

1  According to the most recent Graduate Study in Psychology data from 2013-2014, 94 percent of participating PhD programs were housed in university colleges of arts and sciences or education. Participating PhD programs housed within nonspecified or indeterminate institutional locations were excluded from analysis.

2  According to the most recent Graduate Study in Psychology data from 2013-2014, 72 percent of participating PsyD programs were housed within professional schools of psychology (university-based or free-standing) or in medical/health science institutions. Participating PsyD programs housed within non-specified or indeterminate institutional locations were excluded from analysis.

3  The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards offers comprehensive resources pertaining to psychology licensure regulations and examination requirements.

About the Authors

Fowler leads the Education Directorate’s efforts to develop resources, guidelines and policies that promote and enhance disciplinary education and training in psychology at the graduate and postdoctoral levels. Throughout his career, Fowler has been active in education, training and career development for young scientists. He served on the National Postdoctoral Association’s board of directors from 2009-12 and is a member of its finance committee. He has been an invited speaker or keynote presenter at more than 100 career development events and has served as a panelist for two National Academies of Science Committees, the State of the Postdoctoral Experience and the Committee on Research Universities. From 2005-07, he was the director of the science careers outreach program at the American Association for the Advancement of Science, where he developed workshops, presentations and seminars and wrote articles to help early career scientists promote and pursue their chosen career paths. He has served as a consultant for universities and research institutions on developing training grants for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars and developing learning outcomes and assessing career outcomes.

Applying to graduate school in psychology 

APA video series on getting into grad school 

Find your psychology graduate program

Additional resources for undergraduate students

• Campus Safety
• (866) 825-5426

What's the Difference between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Congratulations! You've made the tough yet worthwhile decision to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology. A doctorate in clinical psychology provides many potential career opportunities. You can receive training as a clinical psychologist, work in social work, sports psychology, educational psychology, mental health psychology and more. Now, what is the next step?

Before you dive into a doctoral program and clinical training, you'll need to clarify what type of doctoral degree in psychological clinical science you'd like to earn. In the field of Clinical Psychology, there are two distinctive doctoral-level degrees you can work towards: a PhD and a PsyD. What do these degrees mean and how do you choose which degree in psychology program is right for you? Find out more below...

Advance Your Career

PhD in Clinical Psychology

The PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, degree, is traditionally a more common degree path in psychology. This type of doctorate in clinical psychology is founded in research, so the focus of your studies may be on developing research ideas and analyzing data. This training culminates in the completion of a doctoral dissertation project. Typical PhD program training takes between 5 and 7 years to complete. Depending on the school, these programs may be highly selective and only enroll a small number of students each year.

PsyD in Clinical Psychology

The PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology, degree, is an alternative doctoral degree that focuses on the clinical and applied aspects of psychology. Unlike a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in psychology, which often emphasizes research, the PsyD meaning focuses more on applied training and practical experience in the behavioral sciences. PsyD study revolves around preparing students for professional practice and clinical placement. The coursework and practicum is directed at applying established standards of practice and evidence-based services that will be applied in future clinical work. PsyD students may also complete a doctoral project or dissertation that focuses on an applied clinical problem. Typical PsyD program training takes between 4 and 5 years to complete. These PsyD degree programs generally accept a higher number of students than PhD programs.

Request Information

How to choose between phd and psyd.

Understanding the difference between a PsyD vs PhD can be confusing. Which clinical psychology program you choose depends on the direction you’d like to steer your studies and, ultimately, your career. Think about what sort of work you’d like to do beyond graduation: research-focused or clinically-focused. Take a look at what graduates of both, the PhD program and the PsyD program, are doing to see if their careers align with your own interests.

All things considered, PhD graduates may use their research-based degrees to conduct experimental studies, work in academic settings, and consult with schools or hospitals. PsyD graduates may use their clinical-based degrees to work directly with patients who need behavioral health analysis, clinical psychology, and mental health services. They provide therapy and may pursue a career in private practice. All students enrolled in Clinical Psychology programs at the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) at Alliant International University receive advanced training in psychology in a clinical setting to allow them to confidently function as clinicians and researchers. This is an important step to becoming a licensed psychologist. Most importantly, both the PhD and PsyD programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA.)

Are you a doctoral candidate and conflicted about which Clinical Psychology degree is the best fit for you? Contact an Alliant admissions counselor by calling 1 (866) 825-5426 to learn more about our PsyD or PhD degree programs and the admission requirements.

Additionally, CSPP offers many master’s degree programs at our college campuses and online. Check out some testimonials from our graduate students of the programs and their experience below:

“I am so grateful to have been a part of the Fresno Clinical Psychology PhD Program at CSPP. The diverse faculty that I studied with throughout my tenure in graduate school made quite a lasting impression on me in terms of fostering my professional development and have helped shape me into the clinician and researcher that I am today.” Jennifer Lewey, Clinical Psychology, PhD

“The PsyD program at Alliant prepared me in two different ways. First, it socialized me into the profession of psychology. Second, it, and the Center for Integrative Psychology more specifically, taught me how to think in more powerful, inclusive, and effective ways.” Michael Lembaris, Clinical Psychology, PsyD

What to Expect in a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Program

Program structure.

This doctoral program aims to expand clinical students' understanding in delivering psychological services. The internship involves hands-on practice for aspiring professionals. This type of program provides a valuable clinical experience to better equip graduates for their careers in psychological science, which sets them apart from clinical psychology PhD program students who do not have a similar opportunity. The clinical program integrates scientific evidence with practice in responding to human problems of developmental deprivation, dysfunction, psychological disorders, and trauma. Students can follow their own clinical interests and further their individual career goals by selecting an emphasis area and taking a specialized series of courses, and by pursuing research and field placements that are consistent with their interests and long-term career goals.

Proficiency in Clinical Practice and Educational Settings

Even though the PsyD program emphasizes practical training, it still trains students who aspire to pursue an academic career. Graduates from the Psychology Department can choose to become faculty members while maintaining a clinical practice. In other words, earning a PsyD in Clinical Psychology should not hinder you from entering the academic field. You have the flexibility to pursue careers in clinical practice, teaching, or even a combination of both

Is it possible to pursue a career in academia or education?

Yes, of course, but while it's possible to become a professor in a college or university with a PsyD, those with a PhD degree typically have a better leverage in getting into these academic positions. 

Is it harder for PsyD students to secure internship positions compared to PhD students?

Absolutely not. A lot of internship sites need students or candidates who can handle various clinical duties, and because you have acquired extensive expertise and clinical skill in psychological assessment and therapy in your program, you'll get an internship position easily. 

What is APA accreditation?

The American Psychological Association accredits doctoral programs in practice-oriented areas such as clinical, counseling psychology, and school psychology, as long as they meet the APA's standards and maintain them. Many employers and internship sites prefer or require psychologists who graduated from APA-approved programs. Therefore, when deciding which programs to apply to, it's crucial to check the APA accreditation status. Alliant offers psychology programs that are APA-accredited.

David Stewart

Dean, California School of Professional Psychology

David G. Stewart, PhD, ABPP, is a board-certified clinical child and adolescent psychologist and Dean of the California School of...

Other Categories

University announcements, featured news, nursing and health sciences, start on your path to succeed on purpose.

• 1 Current Select Interests
• 2 Provide Information

You might also like

7 psychology specializations: which is right for you.

By examining the link between brain function and human behavior, psychology can positively influence collective outcomes and...

Social Worker vs. Psychologist: 6 Key Differences

If you’re contemplating a career in psychology or human services, you might be both thrilled and overwhelmed by the number of...

How Long Does it Take to Get a Psychology PhD?

Obtaining a PhD in psychology comes with a number of benefits, from the freedom to start your private practice to the chance to...

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

• Program Overview
• UC San Diego
• JDP Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee
• Program Committees
• Student Council
• SDSU Psychology Clinic
• Program Administration
• Program Faculty
• Practicum Supervisors
• Doctoral Students
• Degree Learning Outcomes
• Major Areas of Study
• Clinical Practicum
• Course Catalog
• Facilities & Centers
• Research and Clinical Training
• Student First-Authored Publications
• Selection Process
• What We Consider for a Competitive Application
• How to Apply
• Faculty Mentorship
• Financial Support
• Admission FAQs
• Student Admissions, Outcome, and Other Data
• Basic Needs Resources
• Community/Cultural Centers
• Financial Aid & Scholarships
• Graduate Affairs
• Graduate Housing
• Student Disability Centers
• Student Health & Well-Being
• Student Handbook Table of Contents
• Mentor-Student Guide
• Registration
• Classes / Sample Curriculum
• Cognitive Psychology Requirement
• Statistics and Research Design
• Emphasis in Child and Adolescent Psychopathology
• Emphasis in Quantitative Methods
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
• Master of Public Health
• Class Attendance
• Transcripts
• Change in Major Area of Study
• Waiving Courses
• Grounds for Dismissal
• Student Records
• Program Milestone Checklist/Timelines
• Guidance Committee
• Second Year Project
• Clinical Comprehensive Exam
• Behavioral Medicine Comprehensive Exam
• Experimental Psychopathology Comprehensive Exam
• Neuropsychology Comprehensive Exam
• Dissertation
• Advancement to Candidacy
• After Graduation
• Student Funding
• Tuition and Fees
• Establishing Residency
• International Students
• Financial Aid
• Incentive Awards & Program Support
• Travel Funds
• Ethical Standards/Professional Behavior
• Where Do You Go When You Have A Problem, Question, Concern, or Complaint?
• Policy on Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest
• Representation of Your Affiliation
• Web page and blog policy
• Membership in APA
• Outside Employment
• Requests to Spend Time Off-Site
• Research Experience
• Human Subjects/IRB
• Practicum Placements
• Accruing Clinical Hours in the Context of Research Activities
• Supervision
• Tracking Clinical Hours
• Integrated Reports
• Practicum Grades
• Policy on Working with Diverse Clients/Patients
• Prerequisites
• JDP Student Awards
• Student Portals
• Campus ID Cards
• E-Mail Accounts
• Change of Address
• Leave of Absence
• Second Year Project Cover Sheet
• Dissertation Proposal Defense Announcement
• Final Dissertation Defense Announcement
• Spring Student Evaluation
• Individual Development Plan (IDP)
• MPH Interest Form
• JDP SharePoint

SDSU / UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology

About the Program

The program provides outstanding education and training to scientifically oriented research professionals who will make significant contributions to clinical psychology in their areas of specialization. The program combines the scholarly resources and offerings from the Department of Psychology in SDSU’s College of Sciences and the Department of Psychiatry in UC San Diego’s School of Medicine.

As a clinical science program, we emphasize integrating research and practice in training, activities, and experience, allowing students to participate in clinical research activities throughout the program. The development of research skills and attitudes is the foundation of training; clinical psychologists will have duties encompassing teaching, research, diagnosis, treatment, consultation, and program evaluation and design, including applying research skills and knowledge to various areas and settings. Our doctoral program enables students to be at the forefront of developments and applications in clinical psychology.

The program includes an initial two-year core curriculum of formal instruction followed by additional experience/instruction in the student’s chosen major area of study. The SDSU/UC San Diego JDP in Clinical Psychology curriculum is based on a twelve-month academic year. Students typically complete the program within five to six years, including an American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited internship.

Completion of the core curriculum ensures that all students have a common background in:

• Empirical psychology (biological, cognitive, affective, developmental, and social bases of behavior).
• Conceptualizations of psychopathology.
• Theory and techniques of psychological assessment.
• Therapeutic interventions and therapeutic skills.
• Experimental design and statistics.

Clinical activities, integrated with formal instruction, begin in the second year. Students will acquire higher clinical proficiency through practicum placements at nearly 30 training sites supervised by SDSU/UC San Diego joint-doctoral faculty representing research and clinical expertise in virtually every topic relevant to clinical psychology.

Major Areas of Study:

Specialized training is conducted through seminars, tutorials, and extensive research and clinical experience under faculty supervision. The APA-accredited clinical internship typically occurs in the fifth or sixth year. Whenever possible, clinical practica and therapeutic activities are coordinated with the student’s progression through courses and research activities. Summers are utilized to offer more concentrated research and clinical training.

For more information about the three areas, visit our Major Areas of Study page.

Program History

The SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology began in 1985, was first accredited by APA in 1990, and has been reaccredited consistently since then. Since 1949 and 1964, SDSU and UC San Diego, respectively, have been regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission . In addition, the School of Medicine at UC San Diego is accredited by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) .

The program emphasizes and appreciates broadly defined human diversity and offers extensive opportunities for students to become involved in research and clinical activities focused on diverse, underserved populations.

Recently, rankings calculated by the National Research Council (NRC) placed the SDSU/UC San Diego joint doctoral program among the top five psychology programs in the country, regardless of whether they were clinical or nonclinical. Similar rankings have been reported by Academic Analytics in 2010 and by Stewart, Roberts, and Roy (2007).

This program is a good-standing member of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology (CUDCP), the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (APCS), the Council of Clinical Health Psychology Training Programs (CCHPTP), and the Association of Psychology Training Clinics (APTC). These organizations strive to provide quality education and training at the doctoral level, ensuring the doctoral program stays abreast of changes and developments in the field. 

Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 E-mail: [email protected]

PhD/MPhil Psychology

Postgraduate research degree

The Psychology PhD/MPhil offers you the chance to develop a substantial and original body of new research involving the discovery of new facts or through the reformulation of existing frameworks.

Research centres and groups

• Clinical, Social and Cognitive Neuroscience
• The ASsuRED Project

Key information

Starting date	Deadline for application
Oct 2024 1 October 2024	Aug 2024 26 August 2024
Feb 2025 1 February 2025	Dec 2024 15 December 2024

Psychology Postgraduate research degrees PhD/MPhil course Overview

You will join an established department with a history of pioneering research. We have a commitment to the traditions of the discipline and a clear vision of good research practice in Psychology .

We support a vibrant community of researchers and provide expert supervision on a range of specialist subjects. Current strengths include cognitive neuroscience, decision making and behavioural economics. Formal modules in advanced research methods are available if needed to provide you with understanding needed to advance your research.

Our purpose-built facilities include:

• Two state-of-the-art electroencephalography laboratories
• A transcranial magnetic stimulation laboratories
• A baby laboratory
• Behavioural laboratories with access to eye-trackers
• Psychophysiological recording suites
• A psychometrics test library.

You and your research will become an integral part of our dynamic research culture.

About the programme

The PhD programme in Psychology is designed to develop your skills as an independent scholar and give you transferable skills for the years after you finish.

What follows is general indication of a student trajectory. It must be borne in mind that because this is a research degree, each student’s programme will be specific to them and the topic they are researching.

Depending on their existing qualifications and in discussion with their supervisor, in year one students may take one or more MSc level modules to furnish their core research methodological skills (see our Research Methods MSc) and subject-specific knowledge (see our MScs in Organisational Psychology, Behavioural Economics, Health Psychology and Clinical, Social and Cognitive Neuroscience).

The majority of time in Year 1 is spent formulating a research question and writing a literature review. Some students may also have begun data collection.

In year two students will finalise their literature review, finalise the overall shape of their thesis and carry out the bulk of their empirical and analytic work. Some may need to take one of several advanced level training courses that are available to build expertise in subject-specific research methodologies.

In year three students will conclude their empirical work and focus on writing up their thesis. They will also seek to disseminate their work in the form of peer-reviewed publications and/or conference presentations and identify opportunities for the next stage of their career.

We expect the majority of students to complete their write-up within a three-year period. However, a fourth year may be used for the final preparation and submission of the thesis and the completion of any amendments that may be requested.

MPhil award

It is important to note that all students on graduate research programmes are initially registered for an MPhil award. Promotion to registration to PhD is not automatic, but contingent on the satisfactory outcome of a formal review process some time in the second year of study.

• For the award of a psychology PHD candidates are required to demonstrate the following:
• a full understanding of previous research literature and current academic and professional thinking
• the ability to undertake sustained, high level research and master the theoretical (and where appropriate, practical) aspects of the subject areas relevant to the research field
• the ability to communicate the subject matter of the research field, and the conclusions of the particular research project, in the accepted academic form of a research thesis

For full details about the City psychology PhD programme structure, please see the Guide for Research Students .

Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate the following:.

• A track record of high academic achievement, demonstrated by a good undergraduate degree with at least a second class (upper division) pass or equivalent
• Good research methodological skills as demonstrated through relevant research experience and/or a good Masters level degree with at least a pass with merit (or equivalent)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral (see also the section on English language Requirements)
• Excellent planning and time-management skills.

English requirements

For students whose first language is not English, the following qualifications will meet the English language requirement for entry to a postgraduate course of study:

• A first degree from a UK university or from the CNAA.
• A first degree from an overseas institution recognised by City as providing adequate evidence of proficiency in the English language, for example, from institutions in Australia, Canada or the USA.
• GCE O-level/GCSE English language or English literature, grade C minimum.
• Cambridge ESOL CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English) at grade C or above.
• An overall score of 7 in the English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a minimum of 7.0 in writing.
• Satisfactory standard in the verbal section of the Princeton Test (GMAT).
• US SAT with 500 in verbal performance.
• Warwick English Language Test (WELT) with pass grades of BBC minimum.
• Other evidence of proficiency in the English language which satisfies the Board of Studies concerned.

For more information see our main entry requirements page.

Visa requirements

If you are not from the European Economic Area / Switzerland and you are coming to study in the UK, you may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study.

The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

• Students on courses of more than six months
• Students on courses of less than six months
• Students on a pre-sessional English language course.

For more information see our main Visa page .

Fees and funding

Full-time Home/UK: £5,500 per year

Part-time Home/UK: £2,750 per year

Full-time International: £14,500 per year

Part-time International: £6,750 per year

Fees for doctoral candidates are charged annually and cover registration, supervision and examination.

Fees are subject to review each year and may vary during your period of registration. Where applicable, fees for City's programmes will be subject to inflationary increases in each academic year of study commencing in September . Our policy for these increases is set out in our terms and conditions of study .

Where eligible, PhD applicants to the department of Psychology may apply for the following fee-waiver studentship:

Who we are looking for:

Applications are invited from exceptional UK, EU, and international graduates wishing to pursue cutting-edge research that will accelerate our understanding of a group of autistic individuals who are currently underrepresented in research. We are keen to receive applications from candidates who have experience with autistic individuals.

How to apply

For more information on how to apply please see the project overview please contact Prof Emmanuel Pothos .

Support for PhD study

Prospective students are encouraged to explore doctoral Grants and funding opportunities such as:

• Research Council studentship awards , if available.

Our bursaries are non-repayable sums of money granted by the University, usually based on need.

Our loans are repayable sums of money granted by the University or other body.

Our scholarships are when the University pays towards your Study fees. You may also be eligible for further funding.

Postgraduate Doctoral Loans

The Government has introduced a new Postgraduate Doctoral Loans scheme which can provide a loan of up to £25,000.

This will be over three years to support study for a doctoral degree.

A Postgraduate Doctoral Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study. It can be used alongside any other forms of support you may be able to receive.

For more information, please see our Postgraduate Doctoral Loans page .

Additional expenses

Some of our degrees may involve additional expenses which are not covered by your tuition fees.  Find out more about additional expenses .

Academic support

City has a well-established structure and processes to support your research .

Supervision

All research students will have a supervisory team of at least two members of academic staff. At least one of them will have experience in seeing research students through to successful completion and both will be actively engaged in an area of research relevant to the student’s field of inquiry.

See here for details about our academic staff and their areas of expertise .

Besides our MSc level courses the department also offers a number of advanced level training workshops for specific research methodological skills. Moreover, wider transferable skills are developed through provisions within the department and through the City Doctoral College .

Transferable Skills

To foster our students’ broader academic and communication skills, they are required to attend a fortnightly research student seminar at which they are expected to present on their work at least once a year.

The seminar takes the format of an oral conference session in which two students typically present for 20 minutes, with 10 minutes allowed for questions and discussion.

Depending on their level of experience, they may help run small-group seminars or contribute to lectures on our undergraduate programme, or they may host stats clinics and run laboratory sessions on statistical analyses. All teaching activities are supervised by a senior member of academic staff.

Applications are now open.

To apply, you should submit the following documents:

• One copy of the Online Research Degree Application Form (full-time) or Online Research Degree Application Form (part-time)
• Your research proposal
• Testimonials from at least two academic referees sent by email from an official work (not private) email account
• Copies of your degree transcripts and certificates (originals or certified copies). If your application is successful we will need to verify the original hard copies before a final offer is made
• Proof of your English language proficiency (if English is not your first language)
• A non-technical summary of the proposed research of no more than 400 words.

See guidance on writing your research proposal .

Please note that we will not consider incomplete applications.

Instructions to referees

Thank you for your contribution to our admissions process, reports from academic referees are a vital part of our information gathering about applicants for Research Degrees. In your testimonial, please focus your report on the following issues:

• Give evidence of the applicant's capacity to undertake high quality research in psychology
• Explain any particular features of the applicant's prior training that you consider to be of particular importance
• Comment on the applicant's determination and motivation for studying for a research degree
• Indicate whether or not the applicant has discussed their research interests with you prior to applying to City
• Comment on the applicant's honesty and integrity.

Select one of the available starting dates to start your application.

• 1 st Oct 2024
• 1 st Feb 2025

For further application enquiries please contact our PGR enquiries team .

Find a supervisor

See our full list of academic staff and potential supervisors in Department of Psychology.

Professor Emmanuel Pothos

Professor of Psychology

• Department of Psychology

Professor Beatriz Calvo Merino

Professor in Cognitive Neuroscience

Professor Dermot Bowler

Dr andreas jarvstad.

Senior Lecturer

Useful links

• Doctoral College
• School of Health & Psychological Sciences
• Student wellbeing
• Terms and conditions

Contact details

Shps doctoral enquiries.

+44 (0) 20 7040 5972

[email protected]

City Doctoral College

[email protected]

LET US HELP

Welcome to Capella

Select your program and we'll help guide you through important information as you prepare for the application process.

FIND YOUR PROGRAM

Connect with us

A team of dedicated enrollment counselors is standing by, ready to answer your questions and help you get started.

Online PhD in Psychology

School of social and behavioral sciences.

Expand your opportunities for making a difference in people’s lives with a PhD in Psychology from Capella. Build expertise that matches your interests to help you prepare for the next phase of your career.

• PhD in Psychology

A flexible PhD in Psychology

The PhD in Psychology degree program provides students with advanced academic preparation with an emphasis on research and scholarship. Students pursue a specialization during which they engage in a competency-based, scholar-practitioner curriculum that can be applied within the field of psychology.

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

PhD in Psychology program overview

The PhD in Psychology program is designed to help you master psychology theory and practice, contribute original research and strengthen your ability to consult, teach or lead in diverse professional settings.

Capella University 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 .

Why Capella?

• Cost & savings
• Quality curriculum
• Student experience
• Flexibility

Reduce your tuition

Scholarships & grants.

Capella scholarships and federal grants are funds that you don’t have to pay back.

• Capella Progress Rewards – These rewards are not need-based and are simply our way to support your commitment to your education. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.
• Student/Alumni Referral Scholarship – Capella students and alumni can refer eligible friends, family or colleagues to Capella to pursue a degree with a scholarship.

Previous experience

Get the credit you deserve. You may be able to save time and money on your Capella degree by transferring credits from an accredited university or getting credit for prior learning

*All transfer and Credit for Prior Learning credit must be completed prior to starting any program in the FlexPath format. Any professional certification or external courses taken concurrently with FlexPath enrollment cannot be recognized in the Capella degree program.

Military benefits

Military benefits may be available in select programs and learning formats for service members, veterans, their spouses and family members.

Employer benefits

Tuition discounts and scholarships are available for eligible employees of our partner organizations.

Program specializations

Various factors impact your time and cost to complete your degree, such as your program specialization. For more information, visit the PhD in Psychology specialization pages.

PhD in Psychology specializations

• General Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Expert advisory board

The purpose of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Advisory Board is to provide a critical link between the strategic objectives of the school and the needs of external constituents through input, insight, feedback and consultation. Board members have backgrounds in the fields of applied behavior analysis, clinical psychology, clinical mental health counseling, general psychology, marriage and family therapy, school counseling and school psychology.

The advisory board will help ensure that Capella University provides:

• Innovative, student-centered education that is competency-based, rigorous, relevant and transformative
• Preparation to help graduates be change makers in behavioral health to meet the needs of a diverse, ever-evolving society

PhD in Psychology outcomes

The PhD in Psychology program provides students with advanced academic preparation with an emphasis on research and scholarship. Students pursue a specialization during which they engage in a competency-based, scholar-practitioner curriculum that can be applied in a range of fields, including psychology, behavioral health, education, business and public policy. Successful graduates of this degree program will be prepared to apply psychological principles within the field of psychology.

Distinguished faculty

Our faculty bring a wealth of professional experiences to the classroom, with practical insights that can help you bridge the gap between learning in the classroom and working in the real world. They teach the skills you need right now and share their understanding of what it’s really like to work in your chosen profession.

1 86% of doctoral alumni agree that the Capella faculty were well qualified and did a good job.

Alumni Outcomes Survey, 2022–2023 

PhD in Psychology services and resources

Education isn’t one-size-fits-all – that’s why support is available to you at every step. From choosing your program and starting classes, to coursework assistance and graduation, our support teams are here for you.

Academic support

• One-on-one enrollment and advising support
• Writing center, online library and tutoring services
• Expert faculty with real-world knowledge

Financing support

• Assistance with the financial aid process
• Scholarships, transfer credits and credit for prior learning

Career support

• Resume help, interview prep and employer database of job listings
• One-on-one career coaching
• Learner & Alumni Networking Platform to connect in your field

Personal support

• Disability services
• Student communities and peer-to-peer mentoring
• 24/7 tech support

“My enrollment counselor at Capella made the process very easy and educated me on how my practical experience can be blended with my academic pursuits to further my career.”

Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel

PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Alumni Association

As a graduate, you’ll have a community of Capella students, alumni and faculty you can tap into for career advice and networking.

1 87% of doctoral alumni agree that Capella provided the flexibility they needed to pursue their degree.

Career development center.

Explore your career options, navigate your job search and move toward your goals with help from our Career Development Center . We offer a variety of resources, including one-on-one career coaching. Start planning early.

PhD or professional doctorate: which is best for you?

There are two kinds of doctoral degrees: PhDs and professional doctorates. Deciding which is right for you depends, in part, on how you want to use your education and the standards in your professional field. The kind of research that most interests you should also play a part in your decision. For either option, our GuidedPath learning format offers the flexibility to study when it works for you, with set deadlines to keep you focused and on track.

1 93% of alumni agree Capella provided the flexibility they needed to pursue their degrees.

Research focus: original or applied.

PhD students are expected to create, expand and contribute to knowledge, research and theory in their discipline. This kind of discovery is often called original research.

Professional doctorate students are expected to expand and apply existing knowledge and research to existing problems in their professional field. This is often referred to as applied research.

Final deliverable: dissertation or project?

PhD students summarize the findings of their research in a five-chapter paper called a dissertation. At completion, they must defend their work in front of a faculty committee. The dissertation is ultimately published and shared with other scholars in the field and the general public.

Professional doctorate students present their research in one of a variety of forms including projects, portfolios, journal articles or even dissertations. In some instances, students are required to defend their work in front of a faculty committee.

Frequently asked questions

How do i apply for the phd in psychology program.

Applicants to the PhD in Psychology program must provide the following information for admission:

• Admission application – no application fee required 
• A master’s degree 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.

International applicants will be subject to additional admission requirements.

View full admission requirements for PhD in Psychology specializations: General Psychology , Developmental Psychology , Educational Psychology , Industrial/Organizational Psychology

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 .

What is a PhD in Psychology?

The online PhD in Psychology from Capella is for experienced professionals who want to build on their expertise and expand their opportunities for making a difference in people’s lives. Choose from four specializations that can help you build skills and knowledge in a specific area of focus.

What will I learn in the PhD in Psychology program?

Our faculty and students collaboratively explore the way humans, organizations and systems work and work together to promote optimal functioning. Using Capella’s competency-based curriculum design, the faculty focuses on assessing students on the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in the field of psychology.

Is the PhD in Psychology degree online or in person?

The PhD in Psychology is offered online in the GuidedPath learning format.

Learn more about the student experience at Capella and explore what additional support resources we offer to help you find and succeed in your degree program.

Additional PhD in Psychology resources

Explore your path in the field of psychology

Find ways to gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the field of psychology.

Helping Professions Guide

Explore paths and programs that leverage your unique interests to help build a better world.

Ready for the next step?

Learning online doesn’t mean going it alone. Help is here, from enrollment assistance and advisors to faculty and academic coaches. Plus, you’ll have a supportive community of students who are as passionate about their careers as you are about yours.

Please Exit Private Browsing Mode

Your internet browser is in private browsing mode. Please turn off private browsing mode if you wish to use this site.

Are you sure you want to cancel?

• Study Abroad Get upto 50% discount on Visa Fees
• Top Universities & Colleges
• Abroad Exams
• Top Courses
• Read College Reviews
• Admission Alerts 2024
• Education Loan
• Institute (Counselling, Coaching and More)
• Ask a Question
• College Predictor
• Test Series
• Practice Questions
• Course Finder
• Scholarship
• All Courses
• B.Sc (Nursing)

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology Top Colleges, Syllabus, and Salary, 2024

Sushil Pandey

Senior Content Specialist

Ph.D. in Psychology is a 3-year full-time doctorate degree in Psychology. In this 3-year program, aspirants learn a total of 9 subjects, 3 in each year. The course mainly focuses on the clinical psychology part and explores the various psychological treatments and methods

The candidates are required to pass their postgraduate degree in psychology with a minimum score of 55% or equivalent marks from a recognised university. Admission to the course is done on the basis of an entrance examination or merit list. Some such exams held in the country are RAT (Research Aptitude Test) and JRF (Junior Research Fellowship). 

The total course fee for the program varies between INR 20,000-INR and 1 Lakh. The top Ph.D. Psychology Colleges in India are Amity University, Lucknow, Banaras Hindu University, Awadhesh Pratap Singh University, etc.

Candidates after passing the course are hired in various job profiles such as professors, Clinical psychologists, Educational psychologists, lecturers, etc. The average salary after the completion of the course ranges between INR 1.8 to INR 6.8 LPA.

Table of Contents

• Course Highlights
• About Ph.D. in Psychology

2.1  Why Study PhD in Psychology?

2.2  Who Should Study PhD in Psychology?

Ph.D. in Psychology Admission Process

3.1  Eligibility

3.2  Admission 

3.3  Entrance Exams

Ph.D. in Psychology Syllabus

• Ph.D. Psychology Distance Learning

Ph.D. in Psychology Top Institutes

• Ph.D. in Psychology Abroad

7.1  USA

7.2   UK

7.3  Canada

7.4   Australia

• Ph.D. in Psychology Jobs and Salar
• Ph.D. in Psychology FAQs

Ph.D. in Psychology Course Highlights

Tabulated below are some of the major highlights of the course.

Course Level	Doctorate
Duration	3 years
Examination Type	Semester System
Eligibility	Master’s degree with 50% aggregate marks in science.
Admission Process	Counselling after qualification of entrance examination
Course Fee	INR 2,000 to 1 lakh
Average Starting Salary	INR 1 to 12 lacs
Top Recruiting Areas	Colleges, Universities, Healthcare Centers, Private Clinics, Hospitals, Counselling Offices etc.
Job Positions	Clinical Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Industrial Psychologist, Research Psychologist, Lecturer, Professor and others such.

Ph.D. in Psychology: What is it About?

• Psychology as an academic discipline encompassing a wide range of studies including attention, perception, comprehension, emotions, intelligence, personality, relationships, behaviour, and even the subconscious. 
• Psychology is the study of the mind and behaviour. 
• Psychologists examine both individual behaviours and the behaviour of groups, working towards understanding human activity, treating mental disorders, and counselling people to help them achieve emotional stability.
• Being concerned with social behaviour, Psychology in many ways is related to the social sciences and humanities, such as Anthropology and Philosophy. 
• They use similar research techniques as these disciplines, including conducting interviews and observing behaviour. 
• Psychologists assess behavioural and mental function and well-being, and study how human beings relate to each other and also to machines, and work towards improving such relationships.

Know More About: Psychology Course

Why Study PhD in Psychology?

There are various reasons as well as advantages for which one can pursue PhD in Psychology. Check them below.

• Good Compensation: After completing the PhD course the candidates will be able to earn anything between INR 1.8 to INR 6.8 Per annum. Apart from that the candidates will be able to gain bonuses and other perks that includes provident funds, DA, retirement benefits as well as medical insurances. 
• The highest qualification in the field PhD is the highest degree a person can attain. Pursuing a PhD in Psychology will make the person highly knowledgeable in the field. The candidates after attaining the PhD Course will be able to help individuals recover from stress or have a deeper understanding in the individual psyche as well as the underlying problem.
• Research and Development - PhD enables an individual to research and execute continuous study in the field which he pursues. Having a doctorate program in Psychology will help the individual to research and continue studying various aspects of the subject matter such as mental stress, self confidence, decision making procedure and many more.
• Choose from various specializations - You will get a variety of fields to execute your specialization on, if you want to pursue PhD in Psychology. This includes - Neuropsychology, Sports Psychology, School Psychology, Engineering Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Social Psychology, Human Factors Psychology, Educational Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Health Psychology, and Developmental Psychology.
• Start Your Own Practice  - A PhD in Psychology degree will also help you to practice on your own. You can open your consultancy , and start practicing. A Psychologist can earn anything between INR 500-INR 2000 for each session. .

You can help individuals recover from their mental issues - The greatest reason for which you should pursue a degree in Psychology is helping others recover from their mental issues. You can assist individuals who go through several mental problems such as anger, stress, mental fatigue as well depression. Aspirants can listen to them, and suggest effective methods to deal with it.

Who Should Study PhD in Psychology?

• Candidates who already have a postgraduate degree in Psychology such as MA Psychology , MSc Psychology should pursue this course.
• Candidates who want to pursue a career in research and development should undertake the PhD in Psychology Program.
• Candidates who have the desire to pursue the career of professor or associate professor in psychology should take up the course. 
• Candidates who have interest in understanding the psychology of criminals should take up the course.
• Candidates who wish to turn entrepreneur and start with their own practice should take up the course
• Also, candidates having a knack in psychology from childhood should certainly pursue the course, to fulfil their dream.
• It is good if a candidate pursuing PhD in the Psychology field has someone in his home who is an expert in his field. A PhD degree needs a lot of guidance as well, and it would be easier if the candidate finds someone like that in his home.

Admission to the course in India is done on the basis of the candidate’s performance in a relevant written test and/or a round of Personal Interview and/or performance in a relevant qualifying examination. Candidates are shortlisted based on both academic record and performance in a relevant nation-wide screening test, such as:

• RAT (Research Aptitude Test)

JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) through UGC NET

Ph.D. in Psychology Eligibility

Aspiring candidates for Ph.D. in Psychology program need to meet the following minimum eligibility criteria:

• Postgraduate degree in Psychology, completed from a recognized institute/university
• A minimum aggregate score of 55% (50 % for SC/ST candidates) or equivalent grade at the level of post-graduation
• At least 5 years of teaching/ industry/ professional experience at a senior level
• In some cases, M.Phil. in Psychology is also preferred

PhD in Psychology: Admission 2024

The following are some of the steps that the candidates can follow in the case of the admission process 

• Candidates have to register themselves first in the official website of the college or the Entrance exam board. The candidates must look at the eligibility criteria and look at the various entry methods.
• The candidates are required to fill in their application form as per the detail required and upload the documents in the format prescribed by the authorities.
• Candidates are required to submit the application form and pay the application form fee and take out the receipt for future reference.
• In the entrance exam, they need to score more than the cut off marks, to qualify.
• Post qualifying the entrances, candidates need to fulfil the eligibility as per the guidelines of that particular college.
• Final selection will follow candidates' performance in the interview and their research proposal .

PhD in Psychology: Entrance Exams

There are multiple entrance exams, which the students can crack to get permission for admission for pursuing PhD in Psychology, Check them below.

Entrance Exam	Registration Date	Exam Date
CSIR NET	To be Announced	To be Announced
UGC NET	To be Announced	To be Announced
	September 05 – October 13 2023	February 11, 2024
	To be Announced	To be Announced
	To be Announced	To be Announced

A year-wise breakup of the course’s syllabus is tabulated below.

Year I	Year II	Year III
Advanced psychopathology	Psychotherapeutic Methods	Clinical psychology I
Psychometric assessment methods	Practicum	Clinical psychology II
Practicum	Clinical Psychology	Internship in clinical psychology

Ph.D Psychology Distance Learning

The candidate has the option to Study PhD in Distance Mode. Let us understand about the distance admission mode for the PhD Distance Learning mode with a bit more detail

• As of now PhD Psychology in Distance mode is available in India only from IGNOU 
• The duration of the course is for a period of 3 years, however, the course can be stretched over a period of 6 years.
• The course is accepted by the distance education Board of India and the UGC. 
• The course fee is INR 16,800.
• The admission is based on a national level entrance examination conducted by the IGNOU.
• The candidates should have completed their masters in required stream with a minimum score of 55%.

The candidates from the reserved categories are allowed a relaxation of 5%.

Some of the top institutes offering the course in the country with the corresponding locations and fees charged by the respective colleges are listed below.

Name of the Institute	City	Average Annual Fees
	Allahabad	INR 70,000
	Noida	INR 55,000
	Lucknow	INR 33,500
	Madhya Pradesh	INR 24,000
	Varanasi	INR 1,00,000
	Rajasthan	INR 1,17,000
	Delhi	INR 16,000
Bhavnagar University	Gujarat	INR 22,000
	Gulbarga	INR 19,000
	Maharashtra	INR 25,000
	Guwahati	INR 31,850
	Moradabad	INR 80,000
	Thiruvananthapuram	INR 2,90,000
	Gulbarga	INR 3,960

Important Links:

PhD in Psychology: Abroad

There are various colleges abroad where you can pursue PhD in Psychology programs. Candidates often desire to pursue their favorite subjects abroad for the availability of a better infrastructure, research opportunities, etc. Though there are some things that the aspirants must keep in mind before taking this step. Check them below.

• Candidates must have a master degree in the relevant stream from a recognised educational institution.
• Candidates may have to appear for the entrance test, which includes the GRE exam .
• Candidates have to submit their english proficiency proof either via TOEFL or IELTS exam.

Candidates also have to fulfil some other requirements by showing their arksheets of previous exams, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, work experience, medical certificate, etc.

PhD in Psychology in USA

Following are the top colleges for the USA offering the PhD in Psychology program.

Colleges	Fees
	INR 110,000
	INR 120,000
	INR 26,00,000
	INR 85,0000
	INR 33,00,000

PhD in Psychology in UK

Check out the top colleges in the United Kingdom providing PhD in Psychology programs.

College	Fees
	INR 470,000
	INR 21,00,000
	INR 27,00,000

PhD in Psychology in Canada

Check out the top colleges in Canada offering PhD in Psychology courses.

College	Fees
	INR 46,00,000
	INR 16,00,000
	INR 54,00,000
	INR 14,00,000
	INR 22,00,000

PhD in Psychology in Australia

College	Fees
	INR 20,00,000
	INR 22,00,000
	INR 21,00,000
	INR 20,00,000
	INR 18,00,000

Ph.D. in Psychology: Career Prospects

On successful completion of Ph.D. in Psychology course, candidates have a wide array of options to choose from. They can opt for a career in Social Service and Mental Health which are two of the most popular career fields for psychology graduates. There is a strong demand for professionals in these fields, they can expect to earn a decent income and have the opportunity to work directly with patients struggling with mental illness and other ailments.

A master’s degree in psychology is the minimum requirement for most entry-level career positions; most of the best jobs are reserved for psychologists with a doctorate in psychology.

Read more about Ph.D. courses

Some of the top most professional avenues open to such postgraduates are listed below with the corresponding salaries offered for the respective positions.

Job Position	Job Description	Average Annual Salary in INR
Clinical Psychologists	Clinical Psychologists are trained in the diagnosis, treatment, assessment, and prevention of mental illnesses. They are also the largest area of employment within the discipline of psychology. They work in a variety of settings including mental health clinics, hospitals, and private practice. Their experience has a major impact on the salary earned.	3,71,000
Social Psychologist	Social Psychologists are hired to study social tendencies such as attitudes, group behaviour, public perception, and leadership. They may also work in systems design, marketing research, and organizational consultation. They may find positions for teaching and researching at universities and colleges in the Psychology department. They research primarily on the field or in school laboratories. They also work for government organizations, and private business sectors also hire Social Psychologists as Researchers, Managers or Political Strategists.	2,48,000
Industrial Psychologists	Industrial Psychologists use their unique knowledge of psychology to improve workplace productivity and efficiency for public companies, and organizations of every type. They also perform a variety of functions, including product design, conducting performance tests, developing corporate training programs, and hiring qualified employees and managers. A degree in psychology qualifies individuals for entry-level positions in industrial-organizational psychology, but a doctorate degree is needed for advancing in the field.	1,44,000
Educational Physiologist	Educational Psychologists are often confused with School Psychologists; however, they are entirely different fields of psychology. School Psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat emotional and behavioural issues of individual students. Educational Psychologists are concerned with the overall quality of education, course structure and programs for all students. They study how students learn and work with teachers, parents, and school administration to improve academic outcomes for an entire student population.	2,70,000
Research Psychologist	Research Psychologists conduct studies and experiments with human or animal participants. They often work for private businesses, universities, or government entities. Their research may focus on a wide range of specialty areas within the discipline, including cognition, psychology, neuroscience, development, personality, and social behaviour.	12,00,000

Ph.D in Psychology FAQs

Ques. What is the world of a psychologist having a PhD degree?

Ans. The significant job of a psychologist having a PhD degree is to prepare and conduct scientific research and execute professional practice.

Ques. How long does it generally take for an individual to complete the program of PhD in Psychology?

Ans. To complete the PhD degree in Psychology, it generally takes five to seven years. Also candidates have to do a one-year internship program in this time span.

Ques. Which is better in between PsyD and PhD?

Ans. PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) and PhD both are worth pursuing. Both the degrees train the students to practice a variety of clinical settings in psychology. The basic difference between these programs are, PsyD focuses more on the clinical part, whereas PhD focuses more on the research part.

Ques. Is a PhD in Psychology difficult to pursue?

Ans. Getting a PhD degree in Psychology is certainly hard work to execute. A candidate pursuing this program needs to do a lot of hard work with dedication, and is required to do coursework, come through knowledge exams, engage themselves in various internships, etc.

Ques. Is it possible for someone to work while pursuing the PhD in Psychology program?

Ans. Yes. If someone wants to balance both of them, they certainly can. Pursuing the PhD degree as well as doing a full-time job is possible, and many people do the same. However it is recommended to do a part-time job while doing a PhD, as a full-time job on one hand, and doing PhD on the other becomes very tough and sometimes affects the learning as well.

Ques. Do all Psychologists have a PhD degree?

Ans. Most Psychologists have a PhD degree. Only there are few instances where psychologists do their job with a master degree only. Though they have additional certification and license for that.

Ques. What is the basic requirement for pursuing a PhD in Psychology?

Ans. Aspirants desiring to pursue PhD is Psychology, need to have a bachelor’s degree along with in-depth training in Psychology which includes laboratory experience, research, statistics, etc.

Ques. Do Psychologists provide medicine?

Ans. No. Psychologists are not trained with a medical degree, hence can't give medicines to their patients. They can only help the patients recover from their mental issues, by applying some effective techniques.

Ques. Can anyone pursue a PhD in Psychology, without pursuing a Masters?

Ans. Yes. It is not mandatory to pursue a master degree for doing PhD in Psychology. Candidates can skip the postgraduate program in this case.

Ques. Is Psychology a good career?

Ans. Psychology is certainly a good career, especially in the present era where people have so many mental issues. It is highly rewarding and a lucrative field of study. Also, psychologist get a handsome amount of salary, depending upon the person’s area of specialization, qualification, etc.

Most Popular Tags

8 Reviews found

Course Curriculum Overview

My course of is B.com the faculty of that college is average and the student ratio is 50 students in one section. In my college, there is 4 sections that is A, b , C,D.MAny teachers is having an experience of 14-15 years in our college. the duration of the exam is 6 months every six months there is a semester exam the exam is sem wise there is 6 sem in b.com.It is not that easy and that much diffcuilt te pass .

Campus Life

there is 6th sem which is been given in college there are more than 2000 books in our library for issue a book we have to apply for an id card we are having many extra curicullar activity in my college and celebrate a sports day as well we have the basketball volleyball court in our college .

Hope you'll get the overview

Loan/ scholarship provisions.

As I've mentioned before I'm pursuing a B. A psychology Honors and the total fee is 60000 which is more affordable. And I had a merit scholarship with a 50% cut-off in my semester fees and it is mandatory to maintain the scholarship by scoring more than 7 CGPA.

Internships Opportunities

As we all know the importance of internships and webinars as they help us in increasing of experiences in our fields and knowledge and Psychology internships our provided by the Shobhit University. By the way, I was satisfied with the internship programs.

Physho phd group of RU

In my university, we participate and enjoy many annual fests and sports activities. for example dance fests, singing, art and craft, drawing and painting, and for sports activities cricket, tennis, volleyball, football, etc. in our campus a big library available for students free of cost. There you can learn anytime and grow your knowledge. There are many social groups and clubs charity on our campus

I chose psychology subject because of I'm interested in human-mind process statements and i want to research on human nature so i decide to read phycology and i want to become a psychologist in the future..there are well-qualified and best teachers are here for students. Quality for a psychology teaching job, you can qualify in NET and JRF and you can also pass phd from a qualified university.

Great environment

The candidates who are interested in taking admission in the PG course offered by Children? University must meet the criteria mentioned below: 1.The candidates should have completed 10+2 or equivalent from one of the recognized board of India is eligible to take admission in UG courses The candidates must hold a degree in the relevant subject to seek admission in PG courses. The admission process is done directly without any entrance.

Students of the college are constantly encouraged to shape up their athletic skills as well. The college has a number of sports achievements in its kitty held at various college & university levels. Infrastructure for sports includes a meticulously designed badminton court which can be played upon in day/night, equipment for cricket, table tennis, volleyball & other indoor games.

ONE GOOD UNIVERSITY IN INDIA

I was interested in joining the Children's University, because of my interest in the education sector, so I took admission here to enhance and learn more in this sector. I enrolled for a PhD in Education, the minimum requirement for getting enrolled as being a post-graduate in any field. The admission process was quite simple; I was interviewed and successfully reserved my seat for the course.

The faculty were skilled teachers, who had years of experience in teaching. They helped us achieve a lot in a short duration and were also quite friendly. The teachers were also highly qualified and treated us with a sense of respect as we were students of a Doctorate course. We enjoyed learning under them

Cool environment of this college

It was fantastic with more practicals and in depth theories. The period is two years and total four semesters. It has exposure to more practical coupled with theory knowledge regarding psychology and human resource. The course also has seminar for all the two years where field expert person takes the seminar with various psychology and human resource subjects and scope of it. Electives can be chosen from various subjects across the departments.

The head of the department is Dr.karunanidhi and he is the head of the department since 2004.He is the professor. There are two associate professors and two professors and two research scholars. All were PhD holders. Dr.lavanya, dr.sasikala,are associate professors dr.swaminathan (professor). dr.swaminathan has 32 years experience in teaching. dr.lavanya has 10 years experience in teaching and dr.sasikala has 6 years experience in teaching.

Neda Karbalaei's Review On Jamia Millia Islamia University-[JMI], New Delhi

Entrance preview.

I didn't pass entrance exam,it was interview. For foreigners there is no any entrance exam. But the procedure of interview and the following structure is so difficult to pass out from the procedure . For indian students there is an entrance exam which you should ask from the indian student of lamia itself.

There is more than 6 months source work which according to me it was somehow beneficial but one of the subject was not related to our exact field . There should be more concentration on the course choices , and it is happening in all universities there .

Best Place to Study in India.

Banaras Hindu university is one of the best university in india and it largest residential university in Asia. Situated in one of the oldest cities that is Varanasi. University provides good and proper facility to all their student to study and develop his /her skills .BHU have largest library in india with Cyber library for poor student those who cant afford their computer and laptops with 24 hour connectivity of local area network. There is no bad thing about my college except some...social issues that is part of our life.

Gender diversity is almost equal, and extracurricular activities are frequently organized on regular basis.

Ph.D. (English)

Ph.d. (economics), ph.d. (history), m.phil. (english), ph.d. (hindi), bachelor of arts [ba], master of science [ms], bachelor of science [b.sc] (nautical science), bachelor of science [b.sc] (psychology), ph.d. (psychology) colleges in india.

IIT Kanpur - Indian Institute of Technology - [IITK]

Amity University

Jamia Millia Islamia University-[JMI]

Chandigarh University - [CU]

Banaras Hindu University - [BHU]

Panjab University - [PU]

IIT Indore - Indian Institute of Technology - [IITI]

Subscribe to our news letter.

Psychology Licensure

Related topics:, on this page..., conditional prescribing certificate, laws & rules, apply online.

Create an account, apply, renew, and pay for your license online using our self-service portal.

How to apply for a psychology license, HSP certification, or provisional psychology license.

Psychologist, Permanent License

For new applicants never licensed in another state and those previously licensed in another state, not foreign-trained.

Psychologist, Health Service Provider

Provisional psychology license.

You can renew your license up to 60 days before your current license expires.

Renewal notifications will be emailed to your email address on file with the board at 60, 50, 40 and 30 days prior to the license expiration date. Renew your license early to avoid a late fee or lapse in licensure. All continuing education requirements must be completed prior to license renewal. 

Continuing Education

Licensees are responsible for meeting all continuing education requirements and should review the rules carefully and frequently. Review the rules for detailed information about continuing education definitions, requirements, standards, criteria and other important specific to this profession.

How to Select and Document Continuing Education

The licensing board does not pre-approve continuing education providers, sponsors or individual programs. It is the licensees’ responsibility to determine if the continuing education programs they attend meet the requirements of their professional licensing board.

A percentage of licensees are randomly audited following each license renewal cycle. If selected, the licensee must submit to the board office an individual certificate of completion issued to the licensee or evidence of successful completion of the course from the course sponsor. These documents must contain the course title, date(s), contact hours, sponsor and licensee's name. In some instances, licensees will be requested to provide to the board additional information, including program content, objectives, presenters, location and schedule. Many times an inclusive brochure meets this requirement.

When selecting continuing education programs, licensees need to make sure they are compliant with administrative rule requirements. Some professions require licensees to meet specific requirements as a condition of renewal.  These may include limits on presentation method (e.g. self-study, ICN, etc.), specific hours on ethics and Iowa law and rules, clinical content, or hours required in a specific practice discipline.

To ensure compliance, each licensee must understand the continuing education administrative rules for their profession prior to choosing and attending a particular program. No matter what a program brochure indicates, it is the responsibility of the licensee to ensure compliance with licensing requirements.

In summary all licensees should:

• Be familiar with the continuing education requirements of their professional boards.
• Obtain inclusive written materials about continuing education programs from program sponsors for post-renewal auditing purposes.
• Maintain certificates of completion that includes the program or course title, date(s), contact hours, sponsor and licensee's name for four years.

Extension or Exemption for Disability or Illness

A licensee who had a physical or mental disability or illness during the license period may apply for an extension or exemption. An exemption provides for an extension of time or exemption from some or all of the continuing education requirements. An applicant shall submit a completed application form approved by the board for an exemption.

• Application for Continuing Education Extension/Exemption for Disability or Illness

The application requires the signature of a licensed health care professional who can attest to the existence of a disability or illness during the license period.

If the application is from a license who is the primary caregiver for a relative who is ill or disabled and needs care from that primary caregiver, the physician shall verify the licensee's status as the primary caregiver.

A licensee who applies for an exemption shall be notified of the decision regarding the application. A licensee who obtains approval shall retain a copy of the exemption to be presented to the board upon request.

Guidelines for Continuing Education Sponsors

The licensing board does not pre-approve continuing education providers, sponsors or individual programs. It is the licensees’ responsibility to determine if the continuing education programs they attend meet the requirements of their professional licensure board.

Potential sponsors are responsible for independently determining if the programs they provide conform to the continuing education requirements set forth in the rules regulations of the professional boards.

To make this determination, thoroughly review the rules for the board(s) in which you are interested prior to offering continuing education to Iowa licensees. By providing inclusive information about the content, objectives and applicability of your program to professional practice, you will assist licensees to make informed decisions when selecting continuing education.

A percentage of licensees in every profession regulated by a licensing board are randomly selected following each license renewal cycle. For auditing purposes the licensee must submit to the board office an individual certificate of completion issued to the licensee or evidence of successful completion of the course from the course sponsor. These documents must contain the course title, date(s), contact hours, sponsor and licensee's name. In some instances, licensees will be requested to provide to the board additional information to assure compliance with continuing education requirements, including program content, objectives, presenters, location and schedule. For this reason, sponsors should provide these items to licensees in writing. An inclusive brochure may meet this requirement.

Additionally, sponsors should consider profession-specific requirements that licensees must address to assure compliance with continuing education rules when preparing written materials such as method of presentation (home study, ICN, etc.), inclusion of specific hours on ethics and Iowa law and rules, certification status by national associations or boards, clinical content, and hours required in a specific practice discipline.

In summary sponsors should:

• Be familiar with the continuing education requirements of their professional audiences.
• Provide inclusive written materials to all program participants.
• Notify licensees that materials should be retained for four years for auditing purposes.
• Provide a certificate of completion that includes the program or course title, date(s), contact hours, sponsor and licensee's name.
• Application for Conditional Prescribing Psychologist Certificate
• Training Director Instructions for Certification of Clinical and Practicum
• Training Director Certification for the Conditional Prescription Certificate
• Training Physician Certification Form for the Conditional Prescription Certificate

Laws.  Laws are contained in the Iowa Code. They are enacted by the Iowa Legislature and provide statutory authority to the professional licensure boards.

• Chapter 154B -- Psychology Board Law

Administrative rules. The professional licensure boards adopt rules to interpret and implement the Iowa Code. Administrative rules have the force and effect of law.

• Chapter 240 -- Licensure of Psychologists
• Chapter 241 -- Continuing Education for Psychologists
• Chapter 242 -- Discipline for Psychologists
• Chapter 243 -- Practice of Psychology
• Chapter 244 -- Prescribing Psychologists

Laws Common to Licensing Boards

The following laws apply to professional licensure boards.

• Chapter 17A - Iowa Administrative Procedure Act
• Chapter 147 - General Provisions, Health-Related Professions
• Chapter 272C - Continuing Education and Regulation - Professional and Occupational

Iowa Administrative Codes Common to Licensing Boards

The following codes apply to professional licensing boards.

• Chapter 4 - Board Administrative Processes
• Chapter 6 - Petitions for Rule Making
• Chapter 7 - Agency Procedure for Rule Making
• Chapter 8 - Declaratory Orders
• Chapter 9 - Complaints and Investigations
• Chapter 10 - Public records and Fair Information Practices
• Chapter 11 - Contested Cases
• Chapter 12 - Informal Settlement
• Chapter 13 - Discipline
• Chapter 14 - Use of Criminal Convictions in Eligibility Determinations and Initial Licensing Decisions
• Chapter 16 - Impaired Practitioner Review Committee
• Chapter 17 - Materials for Board Review
• Chapter 18 - Waivers of Variances from Administrative Rules
• Chapter 19 - Licensure by Verification and of Applicants with Work Experience
• Chapter 20 - Military Service and Veteran Reciprocity

Rulemaking Notices

• Administrative Bulletin

Rulemaking notices, along with adopted rule changes, are published in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin. The preamble for each notice includes a summary of the proposed rule changes. The notice includes information about how to submit public comment when applicable. All comments are forwarded to the board for review prior to making a final decision on the outcome of rule change proposals.

Petition for Waiver

The process for seeking a waiver from an administrative rule and the standards under which the petition will be evaluated are described in Chapter 18.

• Petition for Waiver Form 
• Petition for Waiver Form PDF

This document is a list of some important practice references . This list includes sections of the Iowa Code, the APA Ethics Code, and regulations of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 

• Organized Health Service Training Program Confirmation Form
• Supervision Report
• Supervisor Registration
• Supervisor Confirmation Form for HS
• Psychology: Application for Provisional License (PDF Form) : Download this form to complete on your computer or other device.  You will need to print this application to sign it in ink prior to submitting.  Note : You will need to open this document in an application that is not a browser to complete the application electronically.
• Psychology: Application for Provisional License (PDF) : Print this document to complete the application in writing.

Iowa Practitioner Program

The Iowa Practitioner Program (IPP) is available to licensees across multiple licensing boards in Iowa. The Iowa Practitioner Review Committee (IPRC) reviews self-reports made by licensees to determine eligibility for participation. 

IPP was established in 1996 to support licensees who struggle with impairments due to alcohol or drug abuse, mental health conditions, and/or physical disorders. 

The IPRC designs an individualized health contract to meet the needs of the licensee. State law mandates that information in the possession of the IPRC remain confidential. Participation in the program is not a matter of public record.

" Impairment " means an inability to practice with reasonable safety and skill as a result of alcohol or drug abuse, dependency, or addiction, or any mental or physical disorder or disability.

" Self-report " means the licensee providing written or oral notifications to the board that the licensee has received or may receive a diagnosis as having an impairment before the board's receiving a complaint or report alleging an impairment before the date of self-report.

Criteria for Participation in IPP

The IPRC determines whether practitioners are eligible to participate in the program monitored by the committee. A person is ineligible to take part in the program for any of the following reasons:

• The practitioner engaged in the unlawful diversion or distribution of controlled illegal substances to a third party, or for personal gain or profit;
• The practitioner is already under a board order;
• The practitioner has caused harm or injury to a patient;
• The board is investigating the practitioner that concerns serious matters related to the practitioner's competence;
• The practitioner failed to provide truthful information or refused to cooperate with the board or the IPRC; or
• The practitioner has been subject to a civil administrative or criminal sanction for serious infractions of law, professional ethics, or administrative rules related to the practice.

The Health Contract

Based upon the recommendation of an approved evaluator, the IPRC creates an individualized health contract, which provides a detailed description of the goals of the program, requirements for successful completion, and the practitioner's obligations.

Note: The IPRC may refer to the board participants who are not compliant with the terms of their contract for consideration of disciplinary action.

IPRC Composition

The chairperson of the board appoints the members of the IPRC. The IPRC includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Executive Director of the board or the director's designee from the board's staff;
• A practitioner who has remained free of addiction for two or more years after completing a recovery program for drug or alcohol dependency, addiction, or abuse;
• A physician/counselor with expertise in substance abuse/addiction treatment programs;
• A psychiatrist or psychologist; and
• A public member.

Why Use IPP?

The program encourages practitioners who have impairments to get the help they need. All information received by IPP and IPRC remains confidential as long as the practitioner complies with the terms of their agreement or health contract.

By self-reporting to IPP, the practitioner may avoid formal disciplinary action by the licensing Board. Formal disciplinary action taken against a practitioner is a matter of public record. The board reports the action to the press, the National Practitioners Data Bank (NPDB), insurance companies, and to other state and federal authorities. Participation in the program is confidential.

Health care practitioners must report knowledge of another practitioner's possible impairment to the board. Health care practitioners who fail to report colleagues with a possible impairment may be subject to disciplinary action by the board. It is in the practitioner's best interest to self-report an impairment before someone else files complaint or report.

When Should Someone Self-Report to IPP?

If any of the following apply to a practitioner, it is in that person's best interest to self-report to IPP as soon as possible:

• Charged with, and/or arrested for OWI, or for another alcohol or drug related offense;
• Disciplined by another federal or state agency for alcohol or drug abuse;
• Evaluated or treated for a substance use disorder, or is currently enrolled in a recovery program;
• Diagnosed with a mental health condition and/or a physical health condition;
• Practiced after drinking alcohol or taking an illegal or mind/mood altering substance;
• Addiction/dependence on drugs, alcohol or prescription medication; and/or
• Urged by friend(s), family or colleagues to get help for alcohol or drug abuse, or a mental or physical condition.

How to Submit a Self-Report to IPP

To self-report, a licensee may:

• Complete and submit a self-report form online ;
• Dental Board Licensees/Registrants :  [email protected] ; or
• Licensees of other Boards : [email protected]
• Dental Board Licensees/Registrants:   515.725.3491  or 
• Licensees of other Boards : 515.725.1221 .

IPP Online Forms

IPP Self-Report

Quarterly Report: IPP Participant

About the Board of Psychology

We evaluate the qualifications of applicants for licensure and grants licenses to those who qualify.

6200 Park Avenue Suite 100 Des Moines , IA 50321

• Research Beacons
• Research and Innovation at Maynooth University
• Research Institutes and Centres
• Spotlight on Research
• Research News & Events
• Graduate Research Academy
• Research Development Office
• MaynoothWorks
• Researcher Directory

Undergraduate Studies

• Level 8 Degrees
• Open Days | Events
• Guidance Counsellors
• Visit Maynooth University
• How to Apply | CAO
• A Maynooth Education
• Prospectus & Booklets
• Scholarships
• Certificates and Short Courses
• Postgraduate Studies
• Taught Master's, Diplomas and Certificates
• Research Programmes
• Micro-credentials
• Springboard Courses
• Fees, Funding & Scholarships
• How to Apply for a Postgraduate Programme

International

• The Maynooth Student Experience
• Exchange Incoming (ERASMUS and Study Abroad)
• Study Abroad Incoming
• Summer and Tailored Programmes
• Prospective Full Degree Students
• Go Abroad with Maynooth
• Pre-Arrival & Orientation

Search form

Msc psychology.

• Study at Maynooth /

Qualification : MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE

Award Type and NFQ level : TAUGHT MASTERS (9)

CAO/PAC code : MHW54

CAO Points :

Closing Date : 30 June 2024

View FETAC details

• Entry Requirements
• Department People
• Course Structure
• Career Options
• How to Apply

The MSc Psychology is intended for students who wish to pursue a professional career in psychology, who have already studied at least 60 credits of psychology in their undergraduate degree but who do not currently hold an undergraduate qualification that confers eligibility for Graduate Membership of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) or Graduate Basis for Registration with the British Psychological Society. This intensive course is designed to provide a pre-professional qualification equivalent to a bachelor degree in psychology and, as such, offers a conversion route for graduates who hold an honours degree in Psychological Studies or equivalent. Emphasis is on psychological research methods and analytic techniques, professional ethics, and applied research experience.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page .  Please check this page before emailing your query, as most of the information requested of us is contained here.

Applicants will be required to have at least a  2.1 degree  in a level 8 honours degree, including at least 60 credits of Psychology/Psychological Studies. Prior learning must include introductory level coverage of each of biological psychology, social psychology, personality and inter-individual differences, developmental psychology and cognitive psychology, and post-introductory level study of at least 4 of those areas. Places are limited to 20 per annum, and will be assigned on a competitive basis.

Minimum English language requirements:

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here . The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.

Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

Please note that all applications for this course will be reviewed after the closing date.

Dr Michael Cooke

Head of Department

Department of Edward M Kennedy Institute

Department of Psychology

Department of ALL Institute

Department of Social Sciences Institute (MUSSI)

Read Full Biography

Prof Richard Roche

Dr Sadhbh Byrne

Dr Laura Coffey

Department of Human Health Institute

Prof Seán Commins

Prof Louise Connell

Prof Andrew Coogan

Dr Michael Daly

Dr Constance De Saint Laurent

Prof Deirdre Desmond

Dr Unai Diaz-Orueta

Dr brenda guiducci.

Prof Philip Hyland

Prof fiona lyddy.

Department of Graduate Research Academy

Dr Dermot Lynott

Dr tadhg macintyre.

Prof Malcolm MacLachlan

Dr rebecca maguire, prof sinéad mcgilloway, dr joanna mchugh power, dr joanne mcveigh, dr peter murphy, dr alastair nightingale, dr katriona o'sullivan.

Prof Bryan Roche

Dr Siobhan Woods

This is an intensive Masters Psychology conversion course offered on a full-time basis over 1 year (90 credits) and designed for students with prior learning in psychology.  Masters students will attend lectures, tutorials, laboratory and practical classes, and seminars and will conduct an independent research project.

--> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> --> -->