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Getting a Ph.D. in Psychology

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

Emily Swaim is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, and Vox.

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."

Doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. and Psy.D.) – everything you need to know in 2024

What’s in this guide, ph.d. or psy.d..

• Why get a doctorate in psychology?

Entry Requirements

• PhD in psychology jobs
• How long does it take to study?

How to choose a program

How much does it cost, earning potential , find your degree.

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

A doctorate in psychology is a terminal degree typically lasting 4-7 years. It prepares graduates for independent research, clinical practice, or university-level teaching careers in psychology.

There are many reasons you may want to pursue a doctorate degree in Psychology, the following guide will provide everything you need to know; from the options, costs, timeframes, career advantages and more.

First up, what are the two types of doctorate degree you can get and what are the differences?

The two doctorate degrees you can get in psychology are Ph.D. and Psy.D.

In simple terms, a Ph.D. in psychology is more research-focused, while a Psy.D. emphasizes clinical practice. The best choice between the two depends on your career goals and whether you prefer research and academia or direct clinical work.

Why study for a doctorate in psychology?

• Doctorate-level psychologists typically have higher earning potential compared to those with a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree in the field.
• Gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in your chosen area of specialization within psychology.
• Potentially make significant contributions to the field.
• Advanced career opportunities in various settings, such as academia, research institutions, government agencies, hospitals, and private practice.
• Connect with other professionals, researchers, and academics in the field of psychology, expanding your professional network

The minimum requirements to study a doctorate degree in psychology will vary from institution to institution. However, there are several common requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree:  all programs require applicants to have completed a  bachelor’s degree , in psychology or a related field. Some programs may accept candidates with a degree in another discipline if they have completed prerequisite coursework in psychology.
• Master’s degree : Some doctoral programs require applicants to have a  master’s degree in psychology  or a related field. Others may admit students directly from their bachelor’s degree and incorporate a master’s degree into the doctorate program.
• GPA : Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement, usually 3.0 or higher. Some competitive programs require a higher GPA.
• Letters of recommendation : Applicants typically need to submit letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to their academic and research abilities.
• Research experience : Prior research experience is often valued by doctoral programs in psychology. This may include experience working on research projects, completing a thesis, or participating in research internships or assistantships.
• Personal statement:  Applicants usually need to submit a personal statement or statement of purpose that outlines their academic and research interests, career goals, and why they are interested in the specific doctoral program.

Doctorate in psychology jobs

• Addiction Counselor
• ABA Therapist
• Mental Health Therapist
• Licensed Mental Health Conselor
• Licensed Professional Counselor
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Organizational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Research Psychologist
• Professor of Psychology
• Child Psychologist

*Outside of the licensed psychologist jobs listed above many of the above roles  do not require a doctorate but it is important to note that employers for these roles are increasingly favoring candidates with a doctorate. 

How Long Does It Take To Study?

For the majority of students, a doctorate in Psychology may take anywhere from 4-7 years to finish, which will include a research dissertation and most likely residency or an internship in clinical or medical environments.

By far and away the question our career coaches get asked most frequently about doctorate degrees is how to choose a program. The choice of institutions and programs is truly overwhelming.

Here are some key factors to consider:

• Accreditation – Ensuring the program is accredited by the American Psychological Association . Accreditation affects the quality of education you will receive, your eligibility for professional licensure, and your job prospects after graduation.
• Program Focus and Curriculum –  Different programs may emphasize various aspects of psychology, such as clinical practice, counseling, research, or specific subfields like neuropsychology or health psychology. Match the program’s strengths and curriculum to your career interests and goals. Investigate whether the program offers courses and training that are critical to your desired career path.
• Faculty Expertise – Look into the backgrounds and areas of expertise of the faculty within the program. Consider how these align with your research interests or the professional skills you wish to acquire. Having mentors who are experts in your area of interest can provide invaluable guidance and opportunities for collaboration.
• Research Opportunities – For those interested in research, evaluate the resources available, such as labs, funding, and support for attending conferences or conducting fieldwork. Check if the program encourages or requires publications and what kind of support it offers to achieve these milestones.
• Clinical Training and Internships – For clinically oriented programs, look at the quality and variety of their practicum and internship placements. These are often required for licensure.
• Funding and Financial Support – Understand the types of financial support offered by the program, including teaching and research assistantships, fellowships, and grants. Funding can significantly impact your experience by allowing you to focus more fully on your studies and research without needing to seek employment externally.
• Alumni Success and Networking Opportunities –  Investigate where alumni of the program are currently working. This can give you a sense of the program’s reputation and effectiveness in placing graduates in jobs. Additionally, networking opportunities through alumni networks, professional associations, and academic conferences can be critical for career development.
• Program Size and Student Support Services – Consider the size of the program and the ratio of faculty to students, which can affect the amount of individual attention and mentoring you receive.
• Location – Certain locations might offer better practicum, internship, and employment opportunities in your field of interest due to the presence of significant healthcare facilities, research institutions, or industries.

Depending upon the institution, method of study, location and type of program then you can expect to pay $25,000-$80,000 per year to study for a doctorate in psychology.

An online program would likely fall at the lower end of this range whilst an out of state student in a private university might expect to pay the upper end of this range.

Many psychology doctoral programs, particularly in research-oriented universities, offer funding packages to their students. These can include full or partial tuition waivers, health insurance coverage, and a stipend to help with living expenses

The average salary for an individual with a doctorate in psychology is $114,768.

Earning potential varies considerably by specialty, location and industry but we see roles requiring a doctorate advertised in the $80,000-$130,000 range.

• PhD in Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Educational Psychology
• PhD in Forensic Psychology
• PhD in Counseling Psychology
• PhD in Behavioral Psychology
• PhD in Child Psychology
• PhD in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Neuropsychology
• PhD in Sports Psychology

Five Unique Specializations for a PhD in Psychology

• Published November 2, 2016
• Last Updated May 24, 2021
• Read Time 4 mins

It is the aspiration of every psychologist to earn a PhD in Psychology in order to obtain the means of getting to the highest level of his or her practice. While graduating with the much coveted degree began with training based on the model of clinical psychology, most of the limitations have now been removed. In fact, clinical psychology is now better known as just one of the areas of specializations in the field of psychology.

Today, so much has changed in the study of Psychology. For instance, you had only three areas of specializations to choose from in the past: Brain, Behavior and Cognition. Today, however, Psychologists are literally spoilt for choice. Nevertheless, there still remain five unique specializations for a PhD in Psychology.

1. Clinical Psychology

Even after a spirited competition by other areas of specialization, perhaps clinical psychology has not yet lost its glitz. Most psychology students wishing to further their education in psychology still go for it. It has its mark as one of the oldest area of specialization that promise to look into many aspects of the human life.

The main area of focus for a clinical psychology is mental and emotional disorders. As a trained expert in this field, you will be required to determine the cause, diagnosis and treatment of these problems. In the course of your studying for this degree, you will learn how to pick out any sign of mental illnesses as well as the methods of preventing any negative effects of their symptoms. You’ll, therefore, easily find employment in hospitals, universities and clinical centers—if you don’t go into private practice.

2. Cognitive Psychology

If you decide to specialize in cognitive psychology, you will have chosen one of the widest areas of practice in psychology. This field has found itself in most of the other areas of specialization including social psychology, development psychology, educational psychology and even economics. Cognitive psychologists mainly focus on how behavior is affected by mental processes. They include attention, memory, language, perception and metacognition.

Keep in mind, nevertheless, that this given list of mental processes is not exhaustive. Even then, each one of them has several distinctive divisions explaining their functions. For instance, memory is divided into two types: long-term memory and short memory which is also known as working memory.

3. Counseling Psychology

If you’ve always been drawn towards helping other people, perhaps counseling psychology may be the field for you. It mainly involves giving advice on careers, helping people build and raise their self-esteem and providing solutions to family problems as well as helping relieve any kind of mental stress. Since you will be required to work with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds in the society, you’ll need to possess exemplary communication and interrelation skills. In short, the main areas of focus in counseling psychology include social, emotional, educational, organizational, developmental and issues related to health.

4. Forensic Psychology

It is one of the fastest growing fields of psychology if the rate at which its demand is rising is anything to go by. If your passion lies in providing solutions to crime mysteries while working with lawyers, victims, mental health establishments as well as criminals and jails, this is just the degree for you. You’ll not only be able to help law enforcement officers net criminals by profiling them, you will also be required to provide evidence in court. In addition, you may get the opportunity to work with families as a counselor and help solve child custody cases.

5. Social Psychology

In order to understand the working of people’s feelings, behaviors and thoughts as well as their influence on the presence of others (whether real , imagined or implied), it is advisable to take a course that will help you follow the right path. In that respect, the study of social psychology may be just the right course for you to take. Among other things, the discipline offers an opportunity to know the reasons for human behavior in the presence of fellow human beings while looking at the conditions leading to the production of certain feelings as well as behaviors. Some of the topics you should expect to study include social cognition self concept, interpersonal processes, attitudes and stereotypes, attribution theory, social influence and aggression.

Psychology is one of the most dynamic fields and, therefore, the process of gaining the required skills and knowledge through learning and experience is constantly changing. Today, there are many areas of specialization for anyone willing to enroll for a doctorate in psychology. For instance, the American Psychologists Association lists about 15 recognized specialties and proficiencies in professional psychology . Therefore, you can be sure that sooner than later, you will be getting new additions to this list of some of the most unique specializations for a PhD in Psychology.

Related resource:

Top 20 Most Affordable Doctoral Psychology Programs

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PhD in Psychology Degree Programs

• Author: Audrey Stoffle
• Expert Reviewer: Jonathan Adams, PhD
• Editorial Process

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology degree prepares graduates to practice as licensed clinical psychologists or to work in academia or research. This degree is usually offered at public or private research universities and trains students in research methods, perception, cognition, neuroscience, and behavior. PhDs in Psychology are typically focused on one of the specialties and proficiencies within the field. PhD programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology are more research-focused than Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs , but both qualify students for licensure in applied psychology . According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are 191 non-profit colleges and universities that offer an advanced degree in clinical psychology (including master’s degrees, PsyDs, and PhDs) in the United States. 1

Table of Contents

• Reasons to Pursue a PhD in Psychology
• Program Options

Admission Requirements

• Core Concepts

Top-Rated PhD in Psychology Programs

• Select Program Profiles
• Jobs With a PhD in Psychology Degree

Frequently Asked Questions

Reasons to pursue a phd in psychology degree.

A PhD in Psychology degree represents a significant investment of time and money; therefore, most people who enter PhD programs do so to pursue one of the following career paths:

1. To become licensed practitioners. PhDs in Clinical Psychology prepare graduates to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients in private, hospital, or other settings. All 50 states and Washington DC require a doctoral degree to become a licensed clinical psychologist, and a PhD is one of the primary degrees (in addition to the PsyD and the Doctor of Education (EdD) in some states, for school psychologists) that qualify candidates for clinical licensure.

2. To work in an academic or research setting. PhDs in Psychology equip graduates to work in academic or laboratory settings, where they can conduct research to learn about our most basic human functions and behaviors. If you are interested in becoming a college professor of psychology or a researcher, obtaining a PhD in Psychology may be the best way to begin your journey.

PhD in Psychology Program Options

In PhD in Psychology programs, students take courses in quantitative research theories and methodologies, and conduct research with the supervision of faculty mentors. A PhD in Psychology can take as little as four years to complete if you already have a master’s degree in a related area. If you enter the program with a bachelor’s degree, it usually takes five to seven years to complete. Typically, the degree is offered on campus since there are many hands-on research and teaching requirements.

Some common areas of specialization (also known as concentrations, specialties, or emphases) for PhD in Psychology programs include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Counseling Psychology
• Industrial-Organizational Psychology
• Neuropsychology
• School Psychology

Online Degree Formats

If you need a more flexible study option, an online PhD in Psychology program may be a good option. Keep in mind that the American Psychological Association (APA) does not accredit doctoral programs that are fully online; it does, however, accredit some hybrid programs that offer some coursework or content online. If you are choosing an online doctoral program, you should ensure that:

• The school has been accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation
• Online students have similar access to resources and services as traditional students
• The faculty teaching online courses are the same or equal to the ones teaching on-campus
• You will receive assistance in choosing a practicum placement
• The online program will qualify you for licensure in your state if you are interested in licensure

To read more about getting your psychology degree online, you can visit our Guide to Earning an Online Psychology Degree . While the guide focuses more on earning your bachelor’s degree in psychology online, it also includes some helpful tips for the PhD level.

PhD in Psychology applicants should have an undergraduate degree with in-depth psychology training including laboratory experience, statistics, and research methods. Requirements vary depending on the school, but applicants do not usually need a degree in psychology if all prerequisite courses are met. The minimum grade point average (GPA) for admittance is typically 3.0, but the average GPA of admitted students may be considerably higher due to strong competition for upper-level graduate degree programs. High marks in math and statistics are considered favorable. Some schools require applicants to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, references, and GRE scores (though many schools are waiving this requirement).

Admission to traditional psychology PhD programs is more competitive than PsyD programs, with reportedly only 11% of applicants being admitted annually (compared to 40% of those applying to PsyD programs). 2 One reason for this selectivity could be because PhD students in psychology programs often depend on limited research assistantships, where schools offer students funding in exchange for research, teaching, or administrative work. In fact, according to a survey by the APA, 80-100% of PhD in Psychology students receive some funding and 60-90% receive full funding (tuition waiver plus stipend). 3 Since more applicants are vying for assistantships than schools have to offer, only a low percentage of applicants are admitted.

Core Concepts and Coursework

In the first three to four years of a psychology graduate degree program, students take courses in theory, research methods, and statistics, depending on the student’s prior experience and degrees. Required courses also include a student’s area of specialization, such as assessment and intervention for clinical psychology, statistical modeling for quantitative psychology, or laboratory skills for neuroscience. The final year of the program is typically devoted to independent research and the final dissertation. Common coursework in a PhD in Psychology program includes:

• Advanced Statistical Modeling
• Advances in Neuroscience
• Affective Science
• Attitudes and Social Judgement
• Developmental Psychology
• Foundations of Cognition
• Graduate Research Methods
• Perception and Reality
• Psychopathology
• Statistics for Psychology

US News & World Report’s Best Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs 2020

• University of California-Los Angeles (#1)
• University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (#2)
• Stony Brook University-SUNY (#3 tie)
• University of California-Berkeley (#3 tie)
• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (#5 tie)
• University of Washington (#5 tie)
• University of Wisconsin-Madison(#5 tie)
• University of Pennsylvania (#8 tie)
• University of Pittsburgh (#8 tie)
• Harvard University (#10 tie)
• Indiana University-Bloomington (#10 tie)
• Pennsylvania State University-University Park (#10 tie)
• Temple University (#10 tie)
• University of Colorado-Boulder (#10 tie)
• University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (#10 tie)
• University of Texas-Austin (#10 tie)
• Washington University in St. Louis (#10 tie) 4

Select PhD in Psychology Programs

Traditional programs.

Stanford University

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at Stanford University is open to students with wide psychology interests as it offers five different specialization areas in Cognitive, Developmental, Affective, Neuroscience, and Social Psychology. Students can also include a minor from another department at Stanford to further specialize their training. The psychology program teaches students the skills and techniques necessary to conduct rigorous and focused psychology research. It requires hands-on learning through the development and completion of a first-year project and a dissertation. Students must achieve at least a “B-” grade in all courses, or they may need to repeat courses. Opportunities to teach classes in undergraduate psychology and statistics are encouraged to prepare students for academic careers. A variety of funding opportunities, such as graduate scholarships, fellowships, and research and teaching assistantships are offered each year to help students pay for the program and gain valuable work experience.

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

In addition to bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in psychology, the Department of Psychology at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) with nine possible concentrations in Attention & Perception; Behavioral Neuroscience; Cognitive Neuroscience; Clinical-Community; Cognitive; Developmental; Industrial-Organizational; Quantitative; and Social-Personality. The degree is designed to prepare students for research and academic careers, with the exception of the clinical/community concentration, which prepares students for practitioner careers and includes an internship in clinical psychology. Students with prior psychology graduate coursework may transfer up to 32 credits toward the doctoral program. All admitted students in good standing are offered financial support in the form of a nine-month, 50%-time research or teaching assistantship, traineeship, or fellowship. Teaching is mandatory in the program, and students must complete at least two semesters of teaching assistance.

University of Michigan

The University of Michigan (U of M) offers a PhD in Psychology with an embedded master’s degree that prepares graduates for either research or clinical careers. The degree takes five years to complete and students can customize their experience based on their chosen area of interest. The program offers six concentrations including Biopsychology; Clinical Science; Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience; Developmental Psychology; Personality and Social Contexts; and Social Psychology. Joint programs are also offered with social work; education; and women’s and gender studies. Finally, PhD students in Psychology can engage with six affiliated programs including Culture and Cognition, Decision Consortium, the Detroit Initiative, Diversity in Psychology, Intergroup Relations, and the LIFE Course. The school offers an accelerated master’s program for high-achieving undergraduate students, although no stand-alone master’s degree is available. Teaching positions are offered, including the opportunity to design and teach a 400-level undergraduate class for upper-year PhD students, which can be advantageous for those wishing to pursue an academic career.

Hybrid and Online Programs

Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology that can be completed partially online in a hybrid format. The New Student Orientation (NSO) portion of the program is an online component that lasts one month and includes an introduction to the program. The clinical practicum and clinical internship must be done in person, and training sites are often in your local community. The research and training portion is the final component of the PhD program. Concentrations are offered in Forensic Psychology; Health Psychology; Neuropsychology; and Social Justice and Diversity. To be admitted, students must submit an online application and fee, official transcripts, a Curriculum Vitae (CV), a critical thinking writing sample, and three recommendations. Fielding also offers PhDs in Infant and Early Childhood Development; Clinical Psychology; and Media Psychology.

Michigan State University

The College of Education at Michigan State University’s Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology & Special Education offers a hybrid Educational Psychology and Educational Technology (EPET) PhD program for students who need flexibility as they pursue their doctoral degrees. Students can choose to emphasize in either Educational Psychology or Educational Technology. Much of the coursework in the EPET PhD program can be completed online in an average of five years. Graduates are trained in how online learning and technology are transforming the educational model. They will be prepared to become leaders in the K-12 school system or colleges and universities. Two integrated hybrid courses are taken each summer starting the first year, and one online course is taken each fall and spring semester for all five years. Hybrid students are encouraged to arrange an annual campus visit at a time that is convenient for their studies. Students enrolled in the Hybrid Mode usually enroll in one to two courses per semester and continue working full-time. Hybrid students may qualify for teaching or research assistantships depending on their schedules and the funding available.

Jobs with a PhD in Psychology

Psychology PhD graduates need not feel limited to academic careers, as psychology knowledge and skills are valued by businesses, governments, and the nonprofit sectors. Examples of career options for PhD in psych grads include:

• Academic Researcher
• Clinical Psychologist
• Independent Consultant
• Industrial-Organizational Psychologist
• Laboratory Manager
• Neuroscientist
• Policy Advisor
• School Psychologist
• User Experience (UX) Researcher

Can I complete a PhD in Psychology part-time?

Yes. Some schools may offer PhD in Psychology programs on a part-time basis, but most students complete the program full-time due to the program’s demanding schedule and additional requirements, such as teaching or working in the labs.

How much can I make with a PhD in Psychology?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), clinical and counseling psychologists earned an average annual salary of $99,640 in May 2021. 5 Postsecondary psychology teachers earned an average annual salary of $88,390. 9 Wages for psychologists vary depending on the work setting and the specialization, with industrial-organizational psychologists earning the highest average salary at $113,320. 6

Projections Central predicts employment for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists to grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030. 10 Postsecondary psychology teachers are also expected to see high job growth of 10% through 2030. 10 Industrial-organizational and all other psychologists can expect slower growth of around 2% through 2030. 10

How do I become a licensed psychologist?

To become a licensed psychologist, you generally need an APA-accredited doctoral degree, supervised professional experience including a qualifying internship, and a passing score on the Exam for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) . However, licensure requirements vary by state. Students in research-based psychology degree programs do not need to be licensed to conduct research or teach upon graduation. You can read more about licensure in psychology and about how to get licensed in your state on our How to Become a Psychologist page.

Is it worth getting a PhD in Psychology?

If you plan to work in an academic setting, earning a PhD in Psychology will help you gain experience and move into management positions later in your career. Without a PhD, you may still find work as a research assistant but your career growth potential may be limited. Even if you do not plan to work in an academic setting, a PhD in Psychology can help you gain insight and expertise into a particular issue or population. A PhD will also qualify you to become licensed in clinical psychology should you choose to practice in the field.

Do I need to take the GRE Psychology subject test to apply?

While some schools require GRE test scores, it is becoming more common for the GRE score requirement to be waived. Even when GRE scores are required, it is not usually necessary to take the GRE Psychology subject test. Check the requirements of each school where you plan to apply for more information.

What’s the typical salary for a psychology professor?

Postsecondary psychology teachers (professors at colleges, universities, junior colleges, professional schools, and technical schools) earned an annual average wage of $88,390 as of May 2021. 9 You can read more about PhD in Psychology jobs and their respective salaries on our careers page.

References: 1. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/ 2. American Psychological Association, Commission on Accreditation 2018 Annual Report Online, Summary Data: Doctoral Programs: https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/a14f9462/files/uploaded/2018-ARO-doctoral-summary.pdf 3. American Psychological Association, Funding Stats: https://www.apa.org/gradpsych/2010/01/funding-stats 4. US News & World Report Best Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs 2020: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/clinical-psychology-rankings 5. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021 Occupational Employment and Wages, Clinical and Counseling Psychologists: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193033.htm 6. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021 Occupational Employment and Wages, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193032.htm 7. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021 Occupational Employment and Wages, School Psychologists: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193034.htm 8. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021 Occupational Employment and Wages, Psychologists, All Other: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193039.htm 9. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021 Occupational Employment and Wages, Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes251066.htm 10. Projections Central Long Term Occupational Projections: https://projectionscentral.org/Projections/LongTerm

• Department of Psychological Science
• Applying to Graduate School in Psychology

Types of Psychology Graduate Programs

Note: The information on this page is designed to provide an overview of what to expect when applying to graduate school in psychology. If you are seriously considering applying to graduate school, you should connect with a faculty member from the Department of Psychological Science or PSYC Advising as soon as possible.

Types of Psychology Graduate Degrees

There are three main types of graduate degrees within the field of psychology: Master’s, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). The following table compares and contrasts the different focuses and lengths for Master’s, PhD, and PsyD programs.

To learn more about pursuing a graduate degree or career in psychology, visit the American Psychological Association (APA) website .

Differences Between Psychology and Psychiatry

While psychologists and psychiatrists are trained to identify and treat mental health disorders, the required education and training for these career paths differ. The following table compares and contrasts the different requirements for and responsibilities of psychologists and psychiatrists.

If you are interested in becoming a medical doctor or physician assistant, you should connect with an advisor from the College of Health Sciences (COHS) as soon as possible.

Which Type of Program Is Right for Me?

The type of graduate degree that you need will depend on the career you want to pursue. For example, if you want to become a forensic psychologist, you will need to obtain a doctoral degree (PhD, PsyD). If you want to become a counselor, however, you only need to obtain a Master’s degree (MA, MS). Before deciding which type of degree you want to pursue, you need to determine the type of career you are interested in. That way, you can ensure you are getting the appropriate level of education and training needed.

1 UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine. (n.d.). Psychologist vs psychiatrist – What is the difference? https://medschool.ucla.edu/news/psychologist-vs-psychiatrist-what-is-the-difference  

2 American Academy of Physician Assistants. (n.d.).  What is a PA? https://www.aapa.org/about/what-is-a-pa/

3 Indeed. (2023, January 24). What degree do you need to become a PA? (Plus licenses) . https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-degree-does-pa-need#:~:text=To%20earn%20a%20PA%20master’s,Health%20Services%20(MCHS)%20title .

Guide to Doctorate in Psychology Programs

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Are you considering a doctorate in psychology? If so, you’re in good company — thousands of Americans are awarded doctorates in psychology every year. However, doctoral programs are an incredibly varied field of study, with options available for you to study online, in person, or in a hybrid format. You can also choose a specialty and even choose to earn either a Ph.D. in psychology or a Psy.D.

Whatever your field, you’ll be studying and conducting original research as you earn your doctorate. Keep reading to learn about what a psychology doctoral program might look like and how to choose the right program for you.

What Are the Benefits of a Doctorate in Psychology?

Featured online programs.

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

How to Choose a Doctorate Program?

When you’re comparing different psychology doctoral programs, you should consider multiple factors before deciding on one to enroll in. Here are four considerations to bear in mind as you’re preparing your applications and comparing potential programs:

Accreditation

Graduation rate, dissertation requirements, financial aid, how long does it take to get a doctorate in psychology.

A doctorate is a terminal degree, meaning it’s the highest qualification you can attain in the field. It’s not unusual for a doctoral program in psychology to take more than five years to complete. This can mean over 50 credits of required work, but these will generally be split between traditional coursework credits and credits earned through practicum training and work on your original research/dissertation.

If you choose to study online, this timeline may be slightly different. Some online doctoral programs offer accelerated courses, which can allow you to complete your degree at a quicker pace.

Is a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in Psychology Better?

Both a Ph.D. and Psy.D. are legitimate and respected doctorates, but they have a few key differences.

A Psy.D. is a professional doctorate structured with a focus on clinical practice. A Ph.D., on the other hand, is a research doctorate focused on producing original research. Which is right for you will largely depend on whether you’re planning on a career in clinical practice, research, or academia.

Top Career Paths With a Doctorate in Psychology

It’s natural to wonder what kind of job opportunities a doctorate in psychology can lead to — and what kind of salaries you can expect. Here are some of the most popular careers for graduates of psychology doctorates, along with their median salaries for 2023:

How Much Money Can I Make With a Doctorate in Psychology?

Graduates with a doctorate in psychology earn an average salary of about $92,000, according to Payscale data from September 2023. This is approximately $29,000 more per year than those with a master’s in psychology.

Your salary will also vary depending on your specialty. For example, clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median annual salary of around $96,000, while industrial-organizational psychologists earn around $147,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

It is important to note that these figures may also vary depending on your experience and location.

Median Annual Wage for Psychologists, May 2023

Clinical and Counseling Psychologists $96,100

Industrial/Organizational Psychologists $147,420

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Is a doctorate in psychology worth it.

Whether or not a doctorate in psychology is “worth it” or not is a personal question only you can answer. You will need to consider your career goals and personal financial situation , as well as if you are ready to make the time commitment required for a doctorate, before making your decision.

How to become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor, meaning you will need to go to medical school and earn an MD to become one. While you’re there, you can specialize in psychiatric medicine and complete a residency in psychiatry before you can practice.

How difficult is it to get into a psychology Ph.D. program?

How difficult it is to be accepted into a psychology Ph.D. program will depend heavily on the program and school. You should look up your school’s admissions requirements, as well as its Ph.D. program’s acceptance rate, to get an idea of how difficult it typically is to be accepted.

Can you get a doctorate in psychology online?

There are schools that offer doctoral programs in psychology either fully or partially online. Online programs may require you to complete in-person clinical practice or internships in your community.

Can you get into a doctorate program in psychology without a master’s degree?

There are doctoral programs in psychology that do not require you to hold a master’s degree to apply. While a master’s degree can improve your odds of acceptance, it is not a requirement for many programs, and you can be accepted with a strong undergraduate record alone.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed May 12, 2024.

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