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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.

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PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology: What's the Difference?

But when you start looking into those doctoral programs, there’s a kind of big difference you will notice right away. Some of them are titled Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degrees, while others are called Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD) degrees. So what is the difference between PhD and PsyD? You’re about to drop what could be between $60,000 and more than $200,000 on one of these two options, not to mention up to seven years of your life, so you definitely want to understand the difference before you send in that application.

You’re in luck. We’ll explain all the differences between PsyD vs PhD in psychology degrees right here, and you can make your decision with clarity and confidence.

How the Conversation About a PsyD vs a PhD in Psychology Became a Thing

PsyD vs PhD in Psychology Coursework – the Fundamental Difference in Curriculum and Learning Outcomes

What is The Difference Between PhD and PsyD Programs When it Comes to Career Potential?

The idea of doctor of psychology degrees emerged because the traditional PhD education was getting stretched a little thin. Like most fields, psychology PhD programs were heavy on the research and academic elements of the field. They included a lot of theoretical investigation, writing papers, and teaching or assisting in undergraduate courses.

At the same time, though, they became the standard credential for practitioners heading for careers in clinical psychology. Only doctoral-level grads could be expected to provide the best treatment options and the most ethical approaches to patient care in a very sensitive industry. States started required doctoral degrees in order to license clinical psychologists.

The PsyD emerged to create a kind of doctoral education in psychology that reflected the reality that most students would be going into clinical practice. The coursework and experiential training were changed to deliver more preparation for actual patient treatment and less emphasis on research and theoretical psychology.

The PsyD is what is known as a professional doctoral degree, a type of advanced degree that focuses on the practice of a profession more than the research and academic parts of the field.

Understanding the Similarities and Differences Between PsyD and PhD Programs in Psychology

Both PhD and PsyD psychologists:

• Work with individuals, groups, and families
• Work in hospitals, schools, corporations, academia, administration, or applied research settings
• Work as psychotherapists

However, there are differences between the two programs:

What is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology?

PhD programs tend to emphasize the scientist-practitioner model, which places a strong emphasis on research.

According to the National Conference on the Education and Training of Scientist-Practitioners for the Professional Practice of Psychology, the scientist-practitioner model produces psychologists who are educated and trained to “further psychological science, the professional practice of psychology, and human welfare.” Graduates of these programs are capable of functioning as both practitioners and investigators.

Therefore, students in a PhD program receive extensive training in the science of psychology. Psychologists with a PhD may conduct research and provide clinical or counseling services. The PhD is also a common pursuit among those seeking administrative or leadership positions within research institutions/facilities.

• PhD programs generally require an additional year or two of training in order for students to complete their doctoral dissertation.
• PhD programs are most often offered by traditional universities.
• Most PhD students receive assistance with tuition.
• Many PhD programs provide full tuition reimbursement and a stipend to conduct research and teach classes.

What is the Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)?

The PsyD in Psychology places a greater emphasis on supervised experience and psychotherapy and is therefore the degree most common among students with an interest in clinical practice. While PhD programs teach students how to produce research, PsyD programs teach students how to understand and appreciate research.

• Both traditional universities and not-for-profit professional schools offer PsyD degrees.
• PsyD programs tend to be more expensive—and provide less financial aid—than PhD programs.

PsyD programs emphasize the practitioner-scholar model, which focuses on assessing and treating clients, with research still playing an important role. The main emphasis of these programs is on the practical application of scholarly knowledge.

PsyD vs PhD in Psychology – The Fundamental Difference in Curriculum and Learning Outcomes

Your biggest concern as you are looking into these degrees will be the substance of the education. And there are real differences in PsyD vs PhD coursework that you need to think about.

Because a PsyD is a practice-oriented degree, you’ll find coursework that emphasizes study of the practical demands of clinical psychology treatment. That means extra classes in:

• Patient assessment and analysis
• Models of human development and behavior across the lifespan
• Treatment modalities
• Professional and ethical standards in practice
• Psychotherapeutic techniques

In a PhD program, there’s a broader and more theoretical approach to psychology that applies to both research and practice. Since you have roughly the same number of hours in each type of program, you naturally won’t devote as much time to clinician-specific classes, however. Instead, you can expect coursework in topics like:

• Qualitative and quantitative statistical analysis
• Psychological research methods
• History of psychology
• Psychological theory

The PhD program is likely to require more writing, and to involve more directed and self-selected research work. A PsyD, on the other hand, will have less academic preparation and involve spending more time in clinical practicum and internships that involve patient treatment time.

Every psychology doctoral program is unique, however. You’ll need to look at both types to find the coursework that is the best match for your professional ambitions.

EXPLORE SCHOOLS IN PSYCHOLOGY TO SEE DIFFERENT COURSE OPTIONS TODAY!

What is the difference between PsyD and PhD graduation requirements?

The biggest difference between PsyD and PhD programs may be the differing requirements related to completing a doctoral dissertation. While the dissertation is still the most common and most traditional way for doctoral students to present a synthesis of what they have learned, the practical nature of PsyD programs means that they often offer another option in lieu of a classic dissertation. Rather than performing the standard dissertation, you may have the choice to complete a different kind of doctoral project instead.

A doctoral project doesn’t get you off the hook for intense research and investigation, however. You’re expected to develop a practical project that reflects everything you’ve learned in your program, and demonstrates your own unique ideas in patient treatment. The process is just as intense as a dissertation, it’s just aimed at more hands-on, practical work in the field.

What’s the difference between a PhD and a PsyD in terms of costs?

Fortunately, there is no real difference in what you will pay for a PsyD vs a PhD in psychology. The length and format of each kind of program are so similar that you will not find any consistent differences between them, although each individual college will have its own tuition rates.

For 2020, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, the annual average cost of a doctorate at public and private universities came to:

• Public in-state university – $12,171
• Private university – $25,929

What is The Difference Between PhD and PsyD Program When It Comes to Career Potential?

You will find slight differences, but not big ones. Psychology is a hot career field, with only around 6,000 doctoral graduates in the field, total, each year. There is always going to be demand for psychologists with those qualifications and both PhD and PsyD graduates can do any job in the field.

But you will find that PhD holders may be more likely to get the nod in positions with strong academic or research demands. That fits their education and training, with extra preparation in qualitative and quantitative models, and probably more preparation in teaching and research design.

PsyD grads, on the other hand, are more likely to go into practice as licensed clinical psychologists. They have been trained specifically to work with patients in group and one-on-one settings, delivery therapy in a variety of settings from hospitals to private practices.

what are the salary implications of a earning a psyD vs phD in psychology?

Psychologist salaries are highest for doctoral graduates. But are there big differences between what you get paid with a PhD vs a PsyD?

Happily, there doesn’t seem to be any real difference between what you will make as a trained psychologist no matter which doctoral degree you choose. The Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks salaries for psychologists, and as a whole, the profession enjoys a solid median income of $82,180 per year.

But that number includes many psychologists who haven’t gone the extra mile to earn a doctorate. Looking specifically at the psychologists, all other category, which includes clinical psychologists and researchers, the median annual wage cracks six figures at $105,780. Those in the top ten percent of the profession, almost entirely doctoral grads, can earn more than $137,590 per year.

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What are the Key Differences Between a PsyD and Ph.D Program in Psychology?

If psychology is your major of choice, and you want to get an advanced degree, you might be faced with choosing between a PsyD and Ph.D. The question is, what are the differences between the two?

Ultimately, both degrees offer a high level of training in psychology, but how these programs go about doing that differs, both in terms of some of the coursework and the learning outcomes you are expected to master.

Likewise, you will find differences in the careers you might pursue after completing a PsyD as opposed to a Ph.D. Other differences exist, too – which are explained in the detailed guide below.

PsyD Vs Ph.D.

PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) emphasizes clinical practice and hands-on therapy. Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology) often focuses on research, theory, and teaching. While both can lead to therapeutic roles, their primary goals differ: PsyD trains clinicians, while PhD prepares researchers and academics.

PsyD programs are much newer. While Ph.D. programs in psychology date back to the late 1800s , PsyD programs weren’t developed until the early 1970s . But why did the psychology community feel the need to add another high-level degree offering?

Simply put, back then, as today, Ph.D. programs in psychology focused mostly on research and academic pursuits, not clinical applications of psychology. PsyD programs, on the other hand, were developed as professional training specifically for students who wished to provide psychological services to clients in a clinical setting.

As a result of this key difference, these programs approach coursework and learning outcomes in different ways.

Differences in Coursework

The core coursework of most PsyD and Ph.D. programs is actually quite similar. In both programs, you will spend the first couple of years of your studies exploring the central tenets of psychology in courses like psychopathology, developmental psychology, and ethical issues in psychology.

Likewise, PsyD and Ph.D. programs typically include coursework in psychological assessment, history and systems of psychology, and cognitive psychology. Behavioral psychology, psychological interventions, and psychoanalysis are common.

However, as one progresses through these programs, the focus of the coursework begins to diverge. For example, as a PsyD student, you can expect to continue a path of psychology coursework for much of the remainder of the program. But as a Ph.D. student, the third through sixth years of the program focus much more on research-related topics.

Let’s assume you are a third-year PsyD student. Since PsyD programs focus more on clinical applications of psychology, your semester course schedule might look like this:

• Projective personality assessment
• Couples and family therapy
• Psychopharmacology

Now let’s assume you are a third-year Ph.D. student. With a focus on psychological research, your semester course load might look like this:

• Biostatistics
• Experimental design
• Data analysis

So, while the foundational courses students initially take might be very similar, the focus in many programs begins to shift such that PsyD students get the needed training to apply their knowledge as a clinician, whereas Ph.D. students get the needed training to conduct research .

It’s worth mentioning that not all Ph.D. programs are wholly focused on research – some Ph.D. options mirror the training provided by a Psy.D.

Differences in Duration, Core Subjects, and Electives

When deciding between a PsyD and a PhD in psychology, understanding the duration and course structure can help prospective you align their choices with your personal and professional goals.

• Duration : Typically, PsyD programs last between 4 to 6 years , including internship. The exact duration can vary based on full-time vs. part-time enrollment, the program’s intensity, and individual progress.
• Course Structure :
• Core Subjects : PsyD programs often include core courses in psychotherapy, diagnostics, psychological assessment, human development, and psychopathology.
• Electives : PsyD programs may offer electives in areas like child psychology, forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and health psychology, allowing you to tailor your education to specific interests.
• Clinical Training : Hands-on clinical experience is central to the PsyD curriculum. You will engage in supervised internships or practicums throughout your program.
• Duration : PhD programs typically last between 5 to 7 years , with the variation often due to the time required for original research and dissertation completion.
• Core Subjects : PhD programs frequently include core courses in research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, biological psychology, and psychometrics.
• Electives : As a PhD candidate, you can choose electives related to your specific research interests, be it in social psychology, developmental psychology, organizational psychology, or other specializations.
• Research : A significant portion of a PhD program is dedicated to research. You will be expected to produce original research, culminating in a dissertation. Some programs also require teaching or assisting in undergraduate courses.

Differences in Learning Outcomes

As a result of the differences in coursework between these programs, there are often distinct differences in learning outcomes as well.

A good example of this is in the application of knowledge and skills acquired in a PsyD versus a Ph.D. program:

• A primary learning outcome for PsyD students might be successfully assessing and diagnosing a client with a specific psychological disorder. This would include having competency using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to identify the presenting issue and outlining a course of treatment to address the presenting.
• A primary learning outcome for Ph.D. students might be to design and carry out a psychological experiment successfully. This would include the competency to examine relevant psychological research, conduct detailed data analyses, and interpret data to draw evidence-based conclusions.

We can drill down to even more specific differences in these learning outcomes. For example, a PsyD student might be evaluated on their ability to form a trusting relationship with a client in a clinical setting. This skill would be evaluated and assessed in the context of a supervised field experience, such as a pre-doctoral internship. The PsyD student would be observed by their supervisor, who would provide actionable feedback regarding the student’s demeanor with the client, application of relevant skills, and so forth.

Meanwhile, a Ph.D. student might be evaluated on their research competencies in the context of their dissertation research. The dissertation process is a lengthy one, with years of research devoted to the project and feedback provided by one’s dissertation committee at various points in the process.

But, rather than being evaluated on their ability to provide psychological services to a client, a Ph.D. student’s dissertation committee would provide a final evaluation of the quality of research and academic value of that research during the student’s dissertation defense. Again, while the underlying theory and training might be similar, the application of knowledge gained in a PsyD versus a Ph.D. program can be quite different.

Licensing and Certifications

After completing a PsyD program, graduates typically need to pass a state licensing exam, often referred to as the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) . Additionally, all states have post-doctoral supervised practice requirements before granting full licensure.

If you are looking to specialize further, there are various certifications available. These can be in areas like clinical child psychology, forensic psychology, school psychology, or neuropsychology. These certifications may enhance your job prospects, professional reputation, and potential earning capacity.

Just like PsyD graduates, PhD graduates aiming for clinical practice must pass the EPPP and fulfill any state-specific requirements. If you are planning to venture into academia, credentials like teaching certifications or post-doctoral fellowships can further bolster your academic profile.

Differences in Career Opportunities

As a result of the differences in coursework and learning outcomes in PsyD and Ph.D. programs, you’ll find that the career opportunities can be quite different as well.

Assume you are a PsyD graduate looking for your first job. With your background in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, it stands to reason that the career opportunities ahead of you would be in areas like clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or marriage and family therapy.

Bear in mind that the specific job opportunities you have depend on your specific PsyD training. For example, some PsyD programs focus on forensic psychology. In that case, the career opportunities you pursue would be specific to that field, such as clinical forensic psychology. With this specialization, jobs in marriage and family therapy would likely not be on your radar.

Even though PsyD programs might have a narrowed focus on a specific niche of psychology, what binds PsyD programs together is clinical training. Regardless of whether your PsyD program focuses on clinical psychology, developmental psychology, forensic psychology, or something in between, your training will lead to a career in which you apply your skills in a therapeutic setting with clients.

The career opportunities for Ph.D. students can be much broader than Psy.D. students. On the one hand, if you complete a traditional Ph.D. program focusing on psychology research, your career opportunities will mostly exist in the research and academic realms.

For example, you might pursue employment at a psychology research lab, conducting research trials for new medications to treat psychological conditions. Alternatively, you might pursue employment at a college as a teaching professor in psychology. In both instances, you’re applying your training in non-clinical fields.

However, as noted earlier, not all Ph.D. programs in psychology are research-focused. For example, you can complete a Ph.D. program in counseling psychology and pursue a career in community mental health. Likewise, your Ph.D. program might provide you with training in child psychology, which would lead to a career working with children and adolescents in a clinical setting.

Differences in Admission Requirements

The application process for PsyD and PhD programs can be competitive. Admission requirements for PsyD and PhD programs slightly differ:

• Educational Background : Most PsyD programs require a bachelor’s degree, but not always in psychology. However, having a foundation in psychology can be beneficial.
• Prerequisite Courses : Some programs might require completion of specific coursework, such as statistics, research methods, or foundational psychology courses.
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) : Many programs require GRE scores, but some might waive this requirement.
• Letters of Recommendation : Typically, 2-3 letters from academic or professional references..
• Personal Statement : An essay detailing your interest in the field, career goals, and reasons for choosing a PsyD program.
• Clinical Experience : While not always mandatory, having prior experience in a relevant clinical or counseling setting can strengthen an application.
• Educational Background : A bachelor’s or master’s degree, often with a preference for psychology or a related field.
• Research Experience : Given the research emphasis of PhD programs, prior research experience, publications, or presentations can be a significant advantage.
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) : Required by most, though some institutions have started to eliminate this requirement.
• Letters of Recommendation : Generally, 2-3 letters, with a preference for those from research advisors or professors familiar with your academic abilities.
• Statement of Purpose : This is more than just a personal statement. It should detail your research interests, potential faculty mentors, past research projects, and long-term career aspirations.
• Interview : Many PhD programs have an interview component, either in-person or virtual, where the fit between you and the program is evaluated.

Both PsyD and PhD programs may also assess other materials like writing samples and CVs.

Is a PsyD Harder than a PhD?

Whether a PsyD is harder than a Ph.D. really comes down to your individual strengths as a student and prospective psychologist.

For example, if you aren’t comfortable working with clients with serious psychological issues, you might have difficulty completing a PsyD program since much of its focus is on developing the skills necessary to build an effective therapeutic relationship with a client. Likewise, if you aren’t terribly interested in mastering the techniques of specific psychological approaches (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy), you will find a PsyD program hard to complete.

Conversely, a Ph.D. program would be difficult if you struggle with the scientific applications of psychology. If statistics, for example, is hard for you to understand, you will have trouble in a Ph.D. program since statistics is a much larger component of the curriculum than in a PsyD program.

In other words, in a vacuum, a PsyD program isn’t harder than a Ph.D. program, nor is a Ph.D. program harder than a PsyD program. What it comes down to is what your strengths are, what your goals are, and what you’re interested in as a future psychologist. If you align your selected program to those components, you’ll have an easier time completing the program.

It should go without saying, though, that both PsyD and Ph.D. programs are difficult. They require years of training and practical experience, an enormous output of time and money, and require a sincere dedication to mastering relevant knowledge and skills. No matter which type of program you select, you will have to work hard to achieve your educational goals!

Is a PsyD as Good as a PhD?

Yes, a PsyD is every bit as accepted as a high-level psychology degree as a Ph.D. Think about it like the differences between a Master of Science and a Master of Arts – though these degrees have distinct differences, they are widely accepted as equal qualifications for many jobs in the psychology field.

Which is Better? A PhD or PsyD?

As discussed earlier, a Ph.D. is often preparatory for a career in research psychology and academics, which usually makes it a better choice if you wish to pursue jobs in those specific fields. On the other hand, a PsyD might be a better option if you prefer to explore a career in a helping profession like clinical or counseling psychology.

But this isn’t a clear-cut, black-and-white issue in which one of these degrees is always better than the other. Each degree has developed as a quality training program for different psychology applications. Which one is better for your specific needs and interests depends mainly on how you want to apply what you’ve learned in a work setting.

Either way you go, a PsyD. or Ph.D. in psychology is an excellent vehicle for advancing your education. When it comes down to it, you will emerge from either program with a terminal degree in your field backed by years of training and practical experience that makes you an expert in psychology.

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Choosing Between a PhD and PsyD: Some Factors to Consider

Your degree choice will determine your training, as well as your career options..

Posted March 2, 2016 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

Like many people who are interested in psychology, you may be considering a career involving clinical psychology. This is a good choice because clinical psychology covers a broad range of interest areas—children, adults, families, sports, forensics and many more.

In addition, there are many paths you can take toward a degree involving clinical psychology. You can earn a master’s or doctoral degree and you can receive training in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, social work, sports psychology, or even medicine as a psychiatrist. Finally, your career path can lead to a job involving research, treatment (including therapy ), teaching, or a combination of these areas.

Today, I (Jonathan) want to focus on a question I hear a lot from students and others—should you get a PhD or PsyD? (I will hold off on other clinical psychology question, such as getting a Master’s or Doctoral degree for now.) This question is very important because it will impact how you will get trained in graduate school and the career options you will have once you earn your advanced degree. There are a number of websites that describe the distinction between a PhD and PsyD.

For brevity, let’s just be clear that:

• A PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy , whereas a PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology.
• PhD students are generally trained following the scientist-practitioner model that puts greater emphasis on research than PsyD students, while PsyD students are generally trained with greater emphasis on clinical work than PhD students.
• A PhD degree is earned in 5-7 years, while a PsyD degree is earned in 4-6 years, keeping in mind that this includes 1 internship year.

Now that I presented the distinction, let’s get right to it—what are the critical factors to consider when deciding whether to be trained as a PhD or a PsyD? In presenting these factors, I stuck to the general premise that the individual making this decision could go to either a PhD or Psych program. Of course, the ability to choose a PhD or a PsyD program may not be available to all students, because they do not meet the criteria of a particular program. These criteria may include grades, GRE scores, or life experiences. In addition, it is very important to keep in mind that, as a rule, the number of students selected for graduate school is quite small for a PhD program (typically 10 or fewer) compared to a PsyD program (which can reach as high as 100).

Let's get back to the factors important for making a PhD-PsyD decision. The first factor you need to consider is whether you will be funded during your years in graduate school.

It is typically the case that students in a PhD program receive some type of funding. This includes tuition, a stipend (a fixed sum of money paid for being a Teaching or Research Assistant), or in many cases, both types of aid. This can add up to literally tens of thousands of dollars each year in financial assistance. You will not be rolling in dough, but the fact that you will not have to pay tuition alone is a big deal because it will significantly reduce any debt you might incur in graduate school. This can turn out to be very important in the sense that the amount of money you will earn as a PhD clinical psychologist may not be as high as you imagined. (Check out careersinpsych.com to see salary info.)

PsyD programs, in general, are unable to provide the same type of support as a PhD program. Part of this is tied to the fact that PhD students serve as Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants, but the same is generally not true of PsyD students at a particular school. In addition, because PhD programs have far fewer graduate students than PsyD programs, schools are able to afford to support PhD students.

I feel it is important to bring up an issue that takes into account the factor of funding—the length time you will be in graduate school. As stated above, the time in graduate school is typically shorter for a PsyD student than a PhD student. In a practical sense, this means that a PsyD student is able to get out and earn a real salary (on average) a year before a PhD student.

Now, this is where things get a bit interesting. Say you get out of school and earn about $60,000 with your PsyD. Of course, this is way more than the stipend at any PhD program; the stipend might be close to $20,000. However, the $60,000 you earn in your year out of graduate school will be needed to start paying back what could be at least $100,000 in tuition costs. To find out tuition costs for any APA accredited PhD or PsyD program, go to their website and look for the link that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data.” I think you will be very surprised to see the tuition costs at both PhD and PsyD programs. As stated earlier, a PhD student will typically not have any tuition debt hanging over their head. Thus the $40,000 extra in salary for the PsyD student in the year they are working compared to the stipend of a PhD student is offset by the tuition debt the PsyD student must repay.

The second factor to think about when deciding to apply to a PhD or PsyD program involves APA accreditation, for both graduate school and internship. APA states that, “Although graduating from an accredited program does not guarantee jobs or licensure for individuals, it may facilitate such achievement. It reflects the quality by which an educational institution or a program conducts its business. It speaks to a sense of public trust, as well as to professional quality.” Based on this statement, it would be wise to search out APA-accredited programs.

With regard to internships (that every PhD and PsyD student must complete), APA also notes that, “Students who take unaccredited internships are ineligible for positions with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the single largest employer of psychologists. They are also barred from civilian positions with the military. In addition, a handful of states require aspiring psychologists to have had an APA-accredited internship to be licensed, and many others require them to show that they completed the equivalent of an APA-accredited internship.” Once again, there are real advantages to your ultimate employment plans by completing an APA-accredited internship.

One nice thing about this second factor is that you have the ability to find out the percentage of students who received an APA accredited internship vs. non-APA non-accredited internship for any APA accredited PhD or PsyD program. Go to the program’s website and again look for the link that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data.” If a school does not list this information, it is not APA-accredited and should be viewed with caution.

The third factor to consider is what career path you would like to follow. On the one hand, if you want to conduct research both in graduate school and beyond, you should probably go for a PhD. On the other hand, if your career goals lean toward more practical work (e.g., being a therapist) with no real intention of conducting research in graduate school or upon graduation, you should probably get a PsyD. There is an important caveat to this distinction, however. You might be a person who wants to conduct research in a particular area (e.g., ADHD ) because you feel the research experience will help you understand a particular mental health issue. Moreover, you might hope to graduate and get a job working with individuals who reflect that research area, but you have no plans to continue your research work. In this case, a PhD is probably for you.

In presenting these important factors to think about if you are choosing to be a PhD or PsyD, we of course understand that each individual has unique circumstances that must be taken in account. Still, we hope that presenting these factors gives you some food for thought as you consider your ultimate career path in clinical Psychology.

Please note that the comments of Dr. Golding, Dr. Lippert, and the others who post on this blog express their own opinion and not that of the University of Kentucky.

Jonathan Golding, Ph.D. , is a professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky. Anne Lippert, Ph.D. , is a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Kentucky.

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PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology [2024 Guide]

Are you contemplating the career benefits of a PsyD vs. PhD?

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Both of these often respected and fulfilling degree paths can lead to exciting things. Let’s explore the differences.

Comparing a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology – Key Differences

You may be considering a doctorate degree in psychology because you’re simply fascinated by the human mind. You may also be confident that you can use your passion for helping people to carve out a very fulfilling career.

It’s important to be very methodical and targeted when choosing your degree path if you’re going to be working in a doctorate-level role. Let’s compare and contrast PsyD and PhD degrees.

A PsyD is considered an “alternate” degree path that puts an emphasis on the clinical and applied aspects of the field. A PsyD is likely a good fit if your goal is to work within a professional practice or counseling setting.

PsyD graduates typically work in clinical settings like psychiatry practices, rehabilitation centers, public schools, universities, or prisons. The coursework for a PsyD revolves heavily around applying things like evidenced-based research and standards of practice in real-world settings.

PsyD programs are designed to help students learn how to apply many decades of research to patient settings. Original research is not the primary goal of someone pursuing a PsyD. Yes, you will likely do independent research as part of your learning path. However, most of your focus will likely be on learning to apply your education in clinical settings.

A traditional or online PhD in psychology is often a natural fit for someone with an acute interest in the research side. This path may appeal to you if you love to break down data to discover insights. The insights that you discover through your independent research could help to move the field forward.

Many PhD holders work in research settings where they design and conduct tests and surveys to gain better understandings of things like human behavior, the effectiveness of various treatments, and underlying causes of psychological disorders.

PhD graduates are also qualified to work as instructors at colleges and universities. That means that they can apply what they’ve learned through study and research to help train the next generation of psychologists and researchers.

Many healthcare and government institutions also hire PhDs for consulting duties. The expertise that a PhD in the field of psychology can bring to the table is important for forming policies and decisions at both private and public institutions.

Ultimately, it is important to know what is a PsyD and what is a PhD in psychology before determining the best degree path for yourself.

Doctoral Psychology Careers & Salaries

What types of job roles are open to people with doctoral degrees in psychology? Roles can be filled at private practices, mental health facilities, schools, universities, and research facilities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median annual wage for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is $79,820. Here’s a look at some specific annual salary expectations based on government data:

Salary expectations should be based on years of experience and the type of institution you’re employed by during your career.

PsyD vs PhD Salary Differences

It’s not an apples-to-apples comparison when it comes to salaries for these two degree paths. The setting that you choose to work in will heavily influence your salary.

Potential for promotions and raises when moving from a general counseling role or social-work role. A private practice can often be the most lucrative option because you are earning revenue based on patient volume.

PsyD graduates can often expect generous pay when working as corporate or sports psychologists.

PhD graduates can typically command the highest salaries when leading research projects. Some PhD graduates earn six figures as tenured college professors.

Both PsyD and PhD candidates have very similar overall salary projections. However, the reality of your salary potential with either psychology degree online comes down to the type of setting you choose to work in.

Psychology Specializations & Concentrations

Most people who pursue PsyD and PhD degrees want to apply their skills to some very specific passions and interests. Here’s a look at some areas of focus for doctoral candidates:

• Clinical psychologists work one-on-one with patients to treat and diagnose mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They often work in practices, hospitals, and care facilities.
• Forensic psychologists apply their skills to the legal arena. They lend their expertise to things like investigations and court cases. Government agencies and local law enforcement routinely consult with forensic psychologists when working on cases or investigating crimes.
• Mental health psychologists use their highly specialized training to evaluate a person’s mental health. This is done through recognized and respected methods for interviewing, evaluating, and testing.
• Organizational psychologists provide services to organizations and businesses looking to increase productivity through psychological principles. An organizational psychologist would come into the picture to study productivity trends, management style, and employee morale to get an understanding of a company. Next, strategic recommendations are given for how to make improvements using techniques for motivation, cooperation, and productivity.
• Sports psychologists are experts at understanding how performance is impacted by both psychological and physical factors. This multifaceted specialty requires an understanding of the relationships between physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, and psychology. Sports psychologists often work with coaches and trainers to create comprehensive plans for individual athletes and teams. They are often employed by sports teams, gyms, high schools, and universities.

A psychologist’s training and skills are tested every day on the job! The rewarding part is that all of these roles allow psychology professionals to see the impact of their work.

Psychology Licensing and Certification

Yes, you should become very familiar with the various licensing and accreditation bodies once you get deeper into your pursuit of becoming a working, licensed psychologist. It’s important to take licensing and certification seriously because your ability to legally act and speak as a psychologist depends on them!

• The American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) is what you might call the primary certifying body for professional psychologists in the United States. This certification shows a psychologist is credible and can be taken seriously. In addition, this certification is essentially a default requirement for being employed or representing yourself as a psychologist.
• The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) oversees standards for the licensing and certification of all psychologists throughout both the United States and Canada. Yes, every single practicing psychologist in both countries needs to meet the association’s standards before being allowed to formally practice in their field. The ASPPB administers the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
• The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is the licensing exam developed by the ASPPB. The exam exists to certify that post-doctoral students are legally permitted to practice psychology. The ASPPB’s recommended minimum passing score is 500 out of a potential score of 800.

The bottom line is that you cannot be a practicing psychologist in the United States without having approval from the ABPP and ASPPB. Fulfilling all requirements and passing required exams are as important as graduating from a doctoral program!

It’s also worth looking into a school with regional accreditation through an organization recognized by CHEA.org .

Choosing Between a PhD in Psychology or a PsyD Degree

It’s time to get serious about making that hard choice between a PhD and PsyD. Choosing as early as possible can help you to narrow down your school search and get all of your paperwork in. Let’s look at the requirements for each program.

• A dissertation is required.
• Lower acceptance rate (approximately 15 percent).
• More funding, stipends, and support are generally provided by institutions.
• Generally requires 90 to 120 credit hours.
• A dissertation isn’t always required.
• Higher acceptance rate (approximately 40 percent).
• No special stipends are generally given to PsyD candidates apart from standard FAFSA
• Generally requires 70 to 114 credit hours.

It can seem that a PsyD is easier to obtain at first glance. However, it’s more important to focus on which type of program is going to provide you with the preparation and training you need to be able to contribute to your chosen field of expertise.

It’s not that a PhD is more difficult to obtain. What we’re really looking at is the fact that a PhD simply requires candidates to dive into research in a more specific way than clinically minded PsyD candidates.

Yes, it does typically take less time to obtain a PsyD. This may make this degree path more attractive to you if you’re interested in getting into your field as quickly as possible.

PsyD vs PhD Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for PsyD and PhD candidates are similar. However, they are not interchangeable. It is typically much more difficult to be accepted into a PhD program than a PsyD program. The main reason is that PhD programs accept a fraction of the candidates.

Actual admissions requirements vary by school. However, many of the requirements are universal across all institutions. Here’s a peek at what you’ll probably need to prepare.

• A bachelor’s degree
• Transcripts from all previous universities attended
• Letters of recommendation
• A minimum undergraduate GPA (varies by school)
• Personal essay
• GRE scores (varies by school)
• A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in a related field
• A minimum undergraduate GPA (typically 3.0)

What’s the Difference in PsyD vs. PhD reputation?

Both are usually highly respected. A PhD is typically viewed as a research-oriented degree.

A PsyD is typically viewed as an appropriate degree for someone with clinical aspirations.

What Jobs Can I Get With a Doctoral Degree in Psychology?

A variety of clinical and research positions are available to professionals with doctoral degrees in psychology.

The list includes psychologists, psychology researchers, school psychologists, sports psychologists, organizational psychologists, and forensic psychologists.

What is a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)?

A PsyD is a professional doctoral degree that is designed to prepare graduates for careers in clinical settings.

Graduates often take leadership roles in institutions that diagnose and support mental health.

What is a PhD in Psychology?

A psychology PhD is a doctor of philosophy in the field of psychology.

The rigorous training and research involved in this program is designed to prepare a student to work in clinical, research, and academic settings.

Should I Continue With a Graduate Psychology Degree Program?

A graduate psychology degree program can greatly expand your career prospects. This may be a worthwhile pursuit if your goal is to become a respected expert in your field.

Getting an additional degree may enable you to go from “support” roles to leadership roles in the field of psychology.

What are the PsyD Requirements to Graduate?

You will need to complete all of the required credit hours. This typically ranges from 70 to 114 total hours. In addition, you may be required to complete a dissertation.

Most PsyD programs require an internship or practicum to provide hands-on experience.

What are the PhD in Psychology Requirements to Graduate?

It will be necessary to complete all credit hours required by your program. This may be as many as 120 credit hours for a PhD program.

You will also need to complete a dissertation related to the specialty you’re pursuing.

What are Key Differences Between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Choosing between a PhD and PsyD in clinical psychology comes down to a choice of research versus hands-on application.

Someone who is interested in research or academic pursuits is probably better suited for a PhD. Someone looking to practice in a clinical setting that relies on one-on-one interactions with patients is probably better suited for a PsyD.

That’s not to say that there’s no overlap. Yes, a person with a PhD can fulfill roles that require clinical expertise. Additionally, graduates of PsyD programs do sometimes end up in research roles.

Getting Your PsyD or PhD Online

Can you really dive into the human psyche on a doctoral level from home? Yes, many colleges and universities now provide doctoral programs in psychology that can be completed remotely.

Both PsyD and PhD programs usually require heavy reading and research. That means that you’ll probably be doing a lot of self-guided study as you pursue your online psych degree . This is one of the reasons why a doctorate in this field may actually be ideal for a syllabus comprised of online coursework.

An PhD or PsyD programs online can balance the self-guided nature of doctorate-level psychology studies with the expertise and guidance of trained, qualified professors in the field.

It may be necessary to complete hands-on training in a clinical setting as part of your degree requirements. This is something that colleges and universities can assist you with once you enter into a doctorate program. It’s possible that you’ll be able to complete clinical work that satisfies your degree requirement locally.

Great minds are interested in studying minds! You may be a perfect fit for an online PsyD or PhD program. Find a school that will help you make big contributions to the field of psychology to get on the perfect degree path.