affordable phd psychology programs

Ranking Top 10 Most Affordable Doctoral Programs in Psychology

• By Kristen Fescoe: BA Psychology; MS Clinical and Forensic Psychology
• Published August 2, 2016
• Last Updated November 20, 2023
• Read Time 16 mins

Earning a PhD in psychology is a significant step toward having a successful career in psychology. PhD psychology programs provide students with the advanced training, skillset, and experience needed to work in a variety of settings including:

• clinical practice

The decision to pursue a doctorate in psychology isn’t one to be taken lightly. A PhD program takes dedication and significant amount of time, often six or seven years to complete. They are often extremely competitive, and applicants may need to apply to several different programs before finding one that is a good fit. Getting accepted is the hard part, paying for it is much simpler! Fortunately, there are many great APA accredited PhD programs that don’t charge their students tuition! Tuition costs are covered by the University through assistantships or fellowships. Some schools offer students a stipend, waive the cost of health insurance, and offer other perks while the student is in good standing.

Methodology

This ranking was made possible because of the information collected from the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator database, individual school websites and the schools’ “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data” sheets provided by each school. We were interested in highlighting clinical psychology PhD programs since clinical psychology is the most popular area of psychology. We reviewed data on the “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data” sheets to find programs that strive to provide funding to their students during their time in the program. We reviewed admissions information, program cost, and internship placement to ensure that accepted students received financial support. To be fair, we listed schools in alphabetical order. All programs included in our list are outstanding PhD psychology programs, highly regarded in the field, and are APA accredited. They offer a wealth of professional development opportunities through:

• research experiences
• internships
• mentoring relationships

We have included program costs noted in the “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data” sheets provided by the institution and added comments about the level of funding to provide a clearer picture.

10. Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois

Clinical psychology phd, 2020-2021 1st year cohort cost- $74,756. students receive full funding including tuition and stipend for five academic years..

The Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences at Northwestern University offers a high-value PhD in psychology. The clinical program is a member of the Academy for Psychological Clinical Science and is accredited by the APA. Students in the clinical program are well prepared for careers in research and teaching in clinical psychology. Northwestern also offers PhD psychology programs in other areas including:

• Personality, Development, and Health Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Brain, Behavior, and Cognition
• Social Psychology

All students are fully funded for five years and many receive additional funding through fellowships and other awards.

9. University of Illinois – Urbana, Illinois

2020-2021 1st year cohort cost- $13,176 (all students receive full financial support).

The Department of Psychology at the University of Illinois features an inexpensive PhD in psychology open to the best and brightest graduate students. Exciting research opportunities are available at the University of Illinois in areas like:

• Attention and Perception
• Behavioral Neuroscience
• Social-Personality

In total, there are nine program areas within the Department and students often cross between them to enhance their skills. Clinical psychology students in good standing receive full financial support for at least six years. This award includes a nine month stipend, and a waiver for tuition and service fees.

8. Michigan State University – Lansing, Michigan

Doctor of philosophy in clinical psychology, 2020-2021 1st year cohort cost: $7,072. students with an assistantship or fellowship can expect to receive a full tuition waiver and health insurance and fees covered..

The budget-friendly PhD in psychology from Michigan State University has been accredited by the APA since 1948. In 2020, they became accredited by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System. The program trains clinical scientists who will contribute to the understanding of mental health disorders and inform on their treatment and prevention. While students work closely with a primary advisor through the mentorship model, they are exposed to a variety of perspectives, training, and professional expertise of the entire clinical science psychology staff. Students who are awarded an assistantship or fellowship can expect to have their tuition costs, health insurance, and fees waived by the University.

7. Loyola University – Chicago, Illinois

2020-2021 1st year cohort cost: $0 (all incoming students were fully funded.).

The best-value PhD in psychology from Loyola University prepares students for a successful career in clinical, research, and academic settings. Admission is highly competitive and each year, only four to six students are selected to participate in the program. Students can choose to formally specialize in clinical child psychology. The doctoral program provides students with balanced training and practice in:

• clinical work

Loyola strives to fully fund their psychology PhD students and in 20-21, students had their tuition, health and dental insurance covered and received a stipend.

6. Harvard University – Cambridge, Massachusetts

2020-2021 1st year cohort cost: $49,448 (students have their tuition and health fees paid in full and receive a stipend and summer research award.).

The clinical psychology PhD program at Harvard University is a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science. The focus of the program is on research, primarily severe psychopathology. Students can usually complete the program in five years. Required courses include:

• Cultural and Individual Diversity
• Diagnostic Interviewing
• Psychological Treatment Research

During the first and second year, students complete two research projects and must pass a general exam before moving to year three. Before beginning the fourth year, students submit their thesis prospectus and complete their thesis and oral defense by the end of the fourth year. Students complete a clinical internship during the fifth year (after completing their thesis research.) PhD students have their tuition and fees covered. They also receive a stipend.

5. Emory University – Atlanta, Georgia

2020-2021 1st year cohort cost: $65,700. all students admitted to the program get an annual stipend, tuition scholarship, and health insurance..

The College of Arts and Sciences at Emory University features an affordable PhD in psychology through their Clinical Science concentration. It’s for students who want to study the assessment, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of psychopathology across the lifespan. The concentration may be chosen as a primary or secondary area of focus and may be a great choice for students who want the option of becoming eligible for licensure. The program is accredited by the APA and the PCSAS. Students can complete a two-year APA accredited affiliated internship through the Child and Adolescent Mood Program  at the Emory School of Medicine. Doctoral clinical psychology students receive an annual:

• tuition scholarship
• health insurance

Once students complete the clinical science concentration requirements and the approved internship, they may apply for licensure as a clinical psychologist in Georgia.

4. DePaul University – Chicago, Illinois

2020-2021 1st year cohort cost: $0. all admitted students receive a full tuition waiver and stipend..

The top value PhD in clinical psychology from DePaul University is recognized by the APA for training in diversity. Students can choose from two areas of emphasis including:

• community track
• child track

The clinical psychology program is a combined MA/PhD combined degree and only admits students planning to earn their PhD. Students gain valuable hands-on experience working with individuals from a variety of ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds through opportunities at the John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County and the Howard Brown Health Center. All clinical psychology PhD students receive a full tuition waiver and stipend in exchange for 20 hours of graduate assistantship work each week. DePaul reports that 92% of graduates were employed or continuing their education or pursuing other goals within six months of graduation.

3. Catholic University of America – Washington, DC

2020-2021 1st year cohort cost: $49,680. all first year students receive a full-tuition scholarship..

The Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology from The Catholic University of America has been accredited by the APA since 1948. They offer an elective focus in Children, Family, and Cultures. The program is appropriately balanced between science and practice as evidenced by the interests of the faculty. All clinical science faculty have cutting edge research practices and are engaged in clinical practice. New students are admitted for the fall semester. Students in recent years have received a financial award that covers tuition for the first three years of the program (while they are taking courses that incur full tuition.) Stipends may also be provided.

2. Auburn University – Auburn, Alabama

Clinical psychology phd program, 2020-2021 1st year cohort cost- $0. all first-year students have assistantships that pay a stipend and waive the cost of resident and non-resident tuition..

The College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University offers a cost-effective PhD in psychology featuring a specialized curriculum, research training resources and clinical practica. Students are exposed to a variety of supervised experiences, allowing them to choose a theoretical orientation that will serve them will in their professional career. Research training takes place in both laboratory and applied settings. Students work a variety of campus and community-based practicum positions to gain valuable clinical training. Most students can complete the program in about six years. All first-year students receive an assistantship that covers tuition and provides a stipend.

1. Arizona State University – Tempe, Arizona

2020-2021 1st year cohort cost- $11,400. cost of tuition is covered by graduate assistantships. assistantships may also cover the cost of health insurance..

The University of Arizona was one of the first three universities in the country to have their best-value doctoral program in clinical psychology accredited by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System. Students can develop expertise in areas like:

• psychophysiology
• clinical neuropsychology
• health psychology
• intervention research

The program follows a clinical science model of training and students can expect to experience a wide range of clinical training and research opportunities. The cost of tuition is covered by graduate assistantships and other financial award may be available to provide additional support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the career options for affordable doctoral programs in psychology.

• Clinical Psychologist
• Addictions Counselor
• Forensic Behavioral Analyst
• Play Therapist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Professor at a University
• Mental Health Clinician
• Occupational Therapist
• Neuropsychologist
• Educational Psychologist
• Vocational Rehabilitation Provider
• Applied Researcher
• Social Service Manager
• Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Industrial and Organizational Psychologist

How Much Can You Earn in this Field?

Psychology is a vast field that can be found in nearly every sector in the world. Because they can be found in various settings, the actual salary of a psychology professional may vary. However, at this time, the current starting salary for a doctoral graduate in psychology with no previous work experience is roughly $55,000. It is possible to make up to $250,000 a year with time and experience as well as qualifications and endorsements.

It is important for students to remember that the above figures are the national average. This means that salaries will vary based on the city as well as the demand for their particular specialty in psychology. More importantly, wages are determined by cost-of-living in a certain area, including bonus forms of compensation and state minimum wages.

Highly specialized professionals will find that their wages are higher. Professionals who work in neuropsychology, neuropsychiatry, industrial and organizational psychology, or engineering psychology tend to make more than professionals who work in addiction, rehabilitation, mental health counseling, and more. In fact, the difference between wages can be up to $150,000 or more, depending on the professional’s qualifications and endorsements.

What are the Various Disciplines of Psychology?

Psychology is a wide-ranging field that encapsulates philosophy, religion, sociology, and more. It is a field that impacts –and is impacted by– a variety of different disciplines. Depending on a student’s chosen specialty, they will have access to disciplines that may serve a general good or the specific needs for their career.

In general, psychology is informed by:

• public health

When deciding the correct path forward for their clients, professionals tend to look at these disciplines, along with:

• social justice
• humanitarian issues and more

Most psychologists and psychiatrists at this level have a discernible specialty. This can form as early as undergraduate education, although most students figure out their emphasis during graduate school. This specialty will have a hand in what students learn and how important that education is to them.

For example, industrial and organizational psychologists focus on psychology in the workplace. This means they focus on the performance of professionals as well as their ability to:

• work in teams
• take critiques
• learn new modes of leadership

So it would make sense that professionals in this area would have some sense of education in business, management, and leadership.

Alternatively, a professional may choose to focus in neuropsychology or neuropsychiatry. This would denote an education in medicine and specific medication to stabilize mental disorders. This is also known as pharmacology. Their education in medicine would supersede their education in psychology, meaning they are more apt to discuss mental disorders in a way that medication could calm the symptoms or even reverse some outlying issues that a client may have.

Why Do Some Doctoral Programs in Psychology Require Internships?

Doctoral programs in psychology are professional degrees. This means that graduates of the program engage with clients every day who may be in need of severe treatment or even medication. They may also be tasked with providing the court system with reliable assessments of their clients.

Because this is required of psychologists, internships are put in place in some doctoral programs to ensure that they can keep up with the workload. Working with a variety of clients can be daunting, but undertaking a work experience will prepare students for a challenging career. It will also ensure that students can demonstrate knowledge in the field before graduation, making it possible for potential employers to see their depth and breadth in the field before accepting them into their ranks.

Internships can range between two weeks for an international or national trip to a full semester in a community setting. The point of the internship is to ensure a student is well aware of and comfortable with the requirements of the degree. The time period also gives the supervisor overseeing the internship, a chance to see what the student needs help with in terms of their degree.

Are Qualifications and Endorsements Required at the Doctoral Level?

Yes, qualifications and endorsements are definitely required at the doctoral level. This is because the doctoral level is the terminal degree for this field. Post-doctoral degrees do exist but are rare, and most professionals tend to earn an additional graduate or doctoral degree in the field.

However, professionals in the field will need some kind of endorsement starting at the undergraduate level if they wish to practice psychology. The American Psychological Association, known as the APA, is the most prominent association that delivers qualifications, provides these endorsements at the undergraduate level for students who wish to practice in their state.

Every psychologist, regardless of their workplace setting and their career goals, will need some sort of qualification in order to advance in their career. This is a requirement put into place by the United States government, meaning that all psychologists must be licensed or endorsed at the federal level. The requirement ensures that clients from all over the country will receive the same level of professionalism from their psychologists.

Licensure, qualification, and endorsements refer to qualifications that can be earned from various prestigious associations. Earning the qualification is a prestige accomplishment that can be put on resumes and CVs to earn better jobs. It may also help a professional earn promotion into mid-level or senior-level positions.

Earning a qualification generally means following a certain educational and work experience pathway. It differs with each specialty, but most professionals complete either a specialization or graduate certificate in the field while also completing internships. They then sit for an exam that covers the field. When they pass, they can add the qualification to their formal name.

Are Online Doctoral Programs in Psychology Just as Good as On-campus Degrees?

These days, there is very little difference between an online and on-campus degree program. In fact, most programs, regardless of delivery, are offered by the same faculty and staff, on the same schedule, with the same graduation program requirements. This means that apart from being physically on-campus, there are few differences between the programs.

However, online programs are a little more convenient for working adults. Not only are they more affordable, but they are also more flexible. Courses can be complete asynchronously or synchronously, ensuring that students still get credit for completing courses when they have time. Additionally, courses with no live participation requirements do better than those that require live participation.

Online programs are also modular, meaning that students can choose to take as many or as few courses as they like. Traditional doctoral students are often stuck with a full-time schedule while online students can be part-time students, so long as they meet the minimum credit hour requirement every term.

Perhaps the biggest difference between online and on-campus students is that online courses are more affordable. Not only are course fees lower for online students, they often don’t have to pay on-campus fees for parking on textbooks. This makes online degrees much more seductive for students, especially if they are making an investment into their career. That investment needs to pay off, so students looking for an online degree may be better served than those who aren’t.

Professionals in the psychology field work in most sectors in the world. From work settings to hospitals, correctional facilities to schools, psychologists use their expertise and experience to provide services to people of all backgrounds, religions, and cultures. But many working adults feel like investing in a doctoral program isn’t worth it. Now that many doctoral programs in psychology are affordable, professionals need only to do their research to find the program that will fit their needs.

This concludes our ranking of the Top 10 Most Affordable Doctoral Programs in Psychology.

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OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Search results include only our partner colleges, which are marked with the word "Ad."  Learn more  about how we make money. ' > AD

An online doctoral degree in psychology can help students develop a deeper understanding of the human experience and the cognitive processes we all share. Knowledge gained can be applied to career advancement inside and outside of academia, such as a private counseling practice, healthcare, or business. Programs confer either PhDs or doctorates upon graduation, which typically takes four to eight years.

We've ranked the online programs on our list by tuition so you can find a program that allows you to stick to your budget while helping you meet your career goals. If you're unclear about your major, our list of the best online colleges for doctoral programs may offer something to spark your interest. View our methodology for details about rankings or learn more about us .

Want an online degree that's:

Regent University Online Regent University Online Regent University Online Regent University Online Learn more about how we make money.">

Regent University Online is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online PhD in Counseling and Psychological Studies as an advanced degree for mental health research, scholarship, and psychological science. Students can choose from 11 concentrations, such as Life Coaching, Grief Counseling, Addictions Counseling, and Trauma and Crisis Counseling. They must complete 51 credit hours to graduate.

Regent delivers its online coursework and instruction via Canvas. Distance learners enrolled in the online counseling and psychological studies PhD program enroll in classes such as Addiction Intervention, Life Coaching, Grief and Bereavement, and Community and Crisis Counseling, depending on the concentration chosen. To graduate, students must also complete a capstone project in Psychological Science and Christian Thought. Career opportunities include researcher/writer, guidance director, and nonprofit administrator, to name a few.

• Regent University Online 's annual tuition was collected using the following degree as a representation of the school's tuition rate: Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies. Annual tuition was calculated using the total minimum number of credits required for a full-time student, which is 51 , the minimum time to complete, which is 3 years , and the tuition per credit, which is $695 .">Annual Tuition: $11,815
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 94%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $11,842
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, repayment rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional repayment rate information. ">Repayment Rate: 95%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, median earning data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional median earning information. ">Median Earnings: N/A
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 54%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 70%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View more reviews for this school at Regent University Online ">Recommend Rate: 62%
• School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
• Undergraduate Online: 3,418 enrolled
• Graduate Online: 5,033 enrolled
• Certificate Online: 236 enrolled

Regent University Online Learn more about how we make money.">

Regent university online.

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Fin. Aid Recipients: 94%
• Undergrad Online: 3,418 enrolled

Liberty University Liberty University Liberty University Liberty University Learn more about how we make money.">

Liberty University is a private, nonprofit, Evangelical Christian school offering an online PhD in Psychology for students interested in understanding the human experience using a biblical worldview. They can choose specializations, such as General Psychology, Theology, and Developmental Psychology. Graduating requires completing 60 credit hours through eight-week courses, which takes approximately three years.

Liberty's online curriculum is delivered via Canvas. Online psychology PhD students can enroll in courses such as Teaching of Psychology, Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview, and Theories and Research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

Liberty University's annual tuition was collected using the tuition rate at the doctoral level. Annual tuition was calculated using the total minimum number of credits required for a full-time student, which is 60 , the minimum time to complete, which is 3 years , and the tuition per credit, which is $595 .

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 98%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $12,471
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, repayment rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional repayment rate information. ">Repayment Rate: N/A
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 62%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 79%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View more reviews for this school at Liberty University ">Recommend Rate: 57%
• Undergraduate Online: 35,243 enrolled
• Graduate Online: 45,783 enrolled
• Certificate Online: 419 enrolled

Liberty University Learn more about how we make money.">

Liberty University

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Fin. Aid Recipients: 98%
• Undergrad Online: 35,243 enrolled

California Institute of Integral Studies California Institute of Integral Studies California Institute of Integral Studies California Institute of Integral Studies

California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online PhD in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology that provides a "whole person" approach (mind and body) to psychology. Students must complete a minimum of 36.2 credit hours to graduate, which can take four to seven years of study.

CIIS uses Canvas so distance learners can complete assignments and participate in online classes. Those enrolled in the transpersonal psychology program take courses such as Origins of Transpersonal Psychology, Critical Thinking with Integral and Transpersonal Psychologies, Scholarship Writing and ITP, and Integral Psychology. Graduates pursue advanced careers in areas such as social work and counseling, nursing and healthcare, activism, and teaching.

• California Institute of Integral Studies 's annual tuition was collected using the following degree as a representation of the school's tuition rate: PhD in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology. Annual tuition was calculated using the total minimum number of credits required for a full-time student, which is 37 , the minimum time to complete, which is 4 years , and the tuition per credit, which is $1,435 .">Annual Tuition: $13,274
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: N/A
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: N/A
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, median earning data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional median earning information. ">Median Earnings: $85,167
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: N/A
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View reviews of California Institute of Integral Studies . ">Recommend Rate: 83%
• Undergraduate Online: 85 enrolled
• Graduate Online: 1,062 enrolled
• Certificate Online: N/A

California Institute of Integral Studies

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Fin. Aid Recipients: N/A
• Undergrad Online: 85 enrolled

Touro University Worldwide Touro University Worldwide Touro University Worldwide Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide (TUW) is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology with a concentration in organizational leadership so students can develop a deeper understanding of behavioral psychology in the workplace. This 66-credit program generally takes three years because courses last only eight weeks. Students can transfer up to six credits, which can also help save time and money.

Distance learners access TUW's online coursework and instruction via its learning management system. Those enrolled in the human and organizational psychology program take classes such as Applied Cognitive Psychology, Applied Media Psychology, The Scholar-Practitioner Model, and Psychology of Human Resource Management.

• Touro University Worldwide 's annual tuition was collected using the tuition rate at the doctoral level. Annual tuition was calculated using the total minimum number of credits required for a full-time student, which is 66 , the minimum time to complete, which is 3 years , and the tuition per credit, which is $700 .">Annual Tuition: $15,400
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Financial Aid Recipients: 86%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average aid package data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average aid package information. Average aid package is the average dollar amount of financial aid given to each student at this institution. ">Avg. Aid Package: $12,292
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, repayment rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional repayment rate information. ">Repayment Rate: 100%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, average graduation rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional average graduation rate information. ">Avg. Graduation Rate: 57%
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, retention rate data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional retention rate information. ">Retention Rate: 90%
• Recommendation rates and review counts are based on student reviews we have collected. View more reviews for this school at Touro University Worldwide ">Recommend Rate: 57%
• Undergraduate Online: 359 enrolled
• Graduate Online: 1,836 enrolled
• Certificate Online: 24 enrolled

Touro University Worldwide

• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and reflects the most current available data. In the absence of available NCES data, financial aid recipients data was provided by an official representative of the school. Contact the school directly for additional financial aid recipients information. This data point represents the percentage of students who receive financial aid. ">Fin. Aid Recipients: 86%
• Undergrad Online: 359 enrolled

OnlineU has over 200 partner colleges that advertise on our site. Search results include only our partner colleges, which are marked with the word "Ad."  Learn more  about how we make money. ">ADVERTISEMENT

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Overview of Online Psychology PhDs

If you're interested in earning the highest possible degree in psychology — a terminal degree — you have two options: a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD), both of which are available online. Although there are many similarities between these two educational paths, there are distinct differences that may influence which one you choose.

Generally speaking, a PsyD program prepares graduates to work as practitioners in the field of psychology. The coursework emphasizes clinical counseling techniques and strategies, although it will also include courses on research methods. The final graduation requirement in a PsyD program may be a written thesis or capstone project. Full-time students often complete this degree in four years, but it may take as many as six.

With a PhD in Psychology, the emphasis shifts to academic research and statistics, as this degree is meant for students who plan to work in academia or research. However, coursework will still include counseling skills, and graduates may become licensed practitioners. PhD candidates usually conclude their program by presenting and defending a written dissertation. A psychology PhD usually takes a bit longer to earn, with an average of five to seven years for full-time students. 

Both types of programs provide a thorough understanding of psychological theory, human cognition, and behavior. To acquire this knowledge, you may be asked to research and write papers, conduct original research, and participate in internships or practicums. In the process of completing your coursework, you'll also develop soft skills such as effective communication, empathy, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making. 

Some programs may also allow you to select an area of specialization. A few of the more common concentrations are clinical psychology, health psychology, forensic psychology, school psychology, and rehabilitation psychology.

Pursuing a doctorate in psychology is a major investment, so you'll want to learn all you can about doctoral degrees and types of psychology degrees before choosing your degree path.

Common Courses

The curriculum for an online PsyD or PhD in psychology varies depending on the school, but the following are some of the courses typically found in a psychology doctoral program.

Advanced Research Methods

This course equips students with the necessary tools to conduct complex psychological research, including statistical analysis and experimental design. Coursework is likely to include an actual research project.

Cognitive Psychology

Cognitive psychology examines the mental processes behind human behavior, including memory, learning, language, problem-solving, and perception. Topics in this course may include the history and current research practices used in cognitive psychology.

Ethical and Legal Issues in Psychology

This course covers the ethical considerations and legal responsibilities involved in the practice of psychology. The course is equally important for students who plan to become researchers and those who plan to become clinical psychologists.

Social Psychology

In this course, students explore how social influences affect individual behavior, attitudes, and perceptions. Coursework may cover historical and contemporary theories on conflict, motivation, social and gender identity, and more.

Psychopathology

Usually taught through case studies, psychology students delve into the study of mental illnesses, their diagnosis, treatments, and prevention.

If you plan to work as a clinical, counseling, or school psychologist, you'll also need to complete a one-year psychology internship before earning your doctorate. This final step is required by the American Psychological Association (APA). The experience of working with actual patients with the support of other licensed psychologists should give you valuable insights into the profession.

Funding a Psychology Doctoral Degree

The total cost of earning a doctorate in psychology can vary dramatically. However, to establish a ballpark figure, we can turn to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics. According to the NCES, the average total annual tuition and fees is $12,394 for graduate programs at public universities and $26,621 at private institutions. Multiplying these figures by the length of a program , which may be three to seven or more years, we can see that the price of a doctoral degree can be substantial.

Some schools that conduct high-level research, especially in the sciences, may offer fully funded programs for traditional, on-campus students, but this is uncommon for online students. With a funded program, PhD students are compensated for the teaching they do and the work they contribute to research projects while earning their doctorate. But if an online student isn't available to perform these work responsibilities usually conducted on campus, they may not be eligible for tuition waivers, stipends, insurance, and other financial support from the doctoral program.

One way you can reduce the cost of a PhD is to opt for an online program like most affordable online psychology degrees listed on this page. Many universities charge in-state tuition rates or possibly slightly reduced tuition rates for distance education students, no matter where they live. As an online student, you typically won't have relocation, transportation, or on-campus living expenses either. 

Many doctoral students also work at full-time or part-time jobs , using some of their income to help pay for their advanced education. Working may mean you'll need to take fewer courses each semester and need additional time to complete your dissertation, thesis, or capstone project, but limiting your debt as you earn your doctorate may be worth the extra time.

Financial Aid

Even if you've decided to earn your doctorate online, if you're enrolled in an accredited program, you're eligible to apply for financial aid funded by the federal and state governments, such as grants, scholarships, and fellowships. In the field of psychology, there are also a few private organizations that sponsor scholarships based on need or merit. 

Grants, scholarships, and fellowships are the best types of financial aid because they generally don't have to be repaid, but you may need to take out a student loan. Consider how much the interest on a federal or private student loan will add to the total cost of your degree. Before accepting a student loan, use a student loan repayment calculator to calculate the full price of the loan. 

Applying for financial aid is a fairly simple process. Just fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You'll later be notified of the types and amount of aid you're going to receive from the various schools where you've submitted admissions applications.

Scholarships

While the FAFSA is the appropriate form to use to apply for government and school-provided financial aid, you'll usually need to fill out separate applications for private scholarships . The following are some of the opportunities available to psychology doctoral students.

APA Dissertation Research Award : The APA offers $5,000 and $10,000 awards for psychology PhD candidates for research costs related to their dissertations.

Roy Scrivner Memorial Research Grants : Sponsored by the APA, this $8,000 grant is offered to graduate students conducting research in the field of LGBTQ family psychology and therapy.

Psi Chi Graduate Scholarship : Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, provides eight annual scholarships of $3,000 each to students pursuing a graduate degree in psychology.

Elizabeth Munsterberg Koppitz Child Psychology Graduate Fellowship : This fellowship provides $25,000 to support graduate research projects in child psychology.

What Can You Do With an Online Psychology PhD?

An online doctorate in psychology can open doors to a variety of rewarding psychology career paths in academia, research, and practice. 

If you're interested in working directly with patients, you may want to become a practicing psychologist. These professionals help individuals and families address a wide range of behavioral and mental health issues. Some psychologists specialize in working with specific types of patients, such as children, or in specific settings, such as larger business organizations. As medical professionals, psychologists are licensed to prescribe medication if needed to modify behavior. 

The median annual salary for psychologists is $81,040 , although the highest paid professionals earn a median of about $134,000. Demand for psychologists is expected to grow by 6% — about the average for all occupations — through 2031.

If research in psychology has become your passion, you may prefer to work in academia as a professor. In addition to teaching future generations of psychologists, you'll conduct original research in the psychology field. 

The median annual salary for psychology professors is $77,860 , and job openings for professors, in general, are projected to grow by 12% through the end of the decade.

Licensure and Certification for Psychologists

Most states require psychologists and counselors who treat patients through therapy and possibly medication to obtain a state-issued license. The criteria for obtaining a license vary by state, but you must usually show that you've earned a doctorate in psychology and have accumulated several hundred hours of clinical experience. You'll then need to demonstrate your knowledge of the profession by passing an exam.

At some point, you may decide to seek certification in a subfield of psychology, such as certain modes of therapy or working with specific types of patients. Certification isn't necessarily required, but it may qualify you for a specialized position. It also shows that you're dedicated to professional growth with expertise in a particular subject. 

FAQs About Online Psychology Doctoral Degrees

How do i choose a psychology phd.

As you're reviewing the online options for earning a doctorate in psychology, you'll want to take several factors into account. These include the type of degree, available concentrations, distinguished faculty members, financial support from the school, and student services and resources. Last but not least, one of the most important considerations is accreditation . Enrollment in an accredited program is required for you to qualify for financial aid .

Are There Any Doctorate Degrees in Psychology That Do Not Require a Dissertation?

Yes, generally speaking, PsyD programs don't require a dissertation. Since this is a practice-oriented degree, many schools require PsyD students to write a thesis — which doesn't require original research like a dissertation — or complete some other type of culminating project.

How Long Does It Take To Get an Online PhD in Psychology?

The length of time it takes to complete a doctorate in psychology depends on several factors. The most important factor is degree type. PsyD programs often take 4-6 years to complete, while PhD programs may take 5-7 years. Perhaps the other most influential factor is whether you're studying part time or full time.

Is a Psychology PhD the Same as a Doctorate?

Yes, a PhD in Psychology and a PsyD are the two types of doctorates in psychology. A PhD is more research-oriented, while a PsyD is focused on practice.

Is an Online Psychology PhD Worth the Cost?

Earning an online doctorate in psychology may well be worth the cost. Whether you see yourself working as a practitioner or an academic researcher, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that the work you do may make a difference in the lives of many people.

However, given the cost of earning both a bachelor's and a doctoral degree, either of these two main career paths may not offer the most optimal return on your investment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it's reasonable to expect your annual salary to be somewhere around $80,000 , which means you may need to work for quite a few years before you start reaping the financial rewards.

In the end, only you can determine whether an online doctorate in psychology is worth it for you based on your personal goals and circumstances. If you want to become a licensed psychologist or a college professor, you must have a terminal degree.

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2024 Most Affordable Ph.D. in Psychology Degree Programs

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Pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology can be a significant investment of time, effort, and money. However, finding an affordable program is crucial for many aspiring psychologists aiming to advance their careers without incurring excessive debt. Fortunately, there are several options available for those seeking high-quality, yet affordable online Ph.D. programs in psychology.

Online education has transformed the landscape of higher education, making it more accessible and cost-effective for students across the globe. Many universities offer a range of programs that cater to various career goals and disciplines within the field of psychology. These affordable programs provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace, while still receiving a comprehensive and rigorous education.

When searching for affordable Ph.D. programs in psychology, prospective students should consider factors such as the program’s accreditation, curriculum, faculty, and the level of support provided to students. Programs like Capella University and those listed in GetEducated’s Best Buy rankings offer a combination of quality education and affordability, making them excellent options for budget-conscious students.

Understanding Ph.D. in Psychology

A Ph.D. in Psychology, or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, is an advanced academic degree in the field of psychology. This degree program focuses on extensive research, analysis, and writing, allowing the individual to develop a mastery of various aspects of psychology. The primary goal of obtaining a Ph.D. in Psychology is to train individuals to become scholars, researchers, and educators in the ever-evolving world of mental health and human behavior.

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology often choose to specialize in a specific subfield, such as clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, or social psychology. Throughout their course of study, they engage in a combination of coursework, research projects, and internships. This rigorous academic training typically takes around five to seven years to complete, depending on the length of the individual’s dissertation project.

Some of the essential components of a Ph.D. in Psychology program include:

• Core Courses: Required coursework covering essential psychological theories, research methods, and statistics.
• Elective Courses: Specialized courses within the chosen subfield, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.
• Research Components: Students work on independent research projects under the guidance of their faculty mentors, culminating in a formal dissertation.
• Internships or Practicum: Practical experiences in the field, which provide opportunities for students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

When looking for the most affordable programs, some options emerge. The Ranking Top 10 Most Affordable Doctoral Programs in Psychology presents a list of schools to consider. Another resource is the 25 Most Affordable Online Doctoral Programs in Psychology for 2021 , which focuses on online programs catering to those who need a flexible learning environment.

Earning a Ph.D. in Psychology opens up a variety of career paths, such as academic teaching and research positions, leadership roles within mental health organizations, or specialized practice in clinical or counseling psychology settings. The advanced expertise, knowledge, and skills gained throughout the program will prepare students to make a significant impact in the field of psychology, no matter where their career takes them.

Types of Psychology Specializations

Psychology is a diverse field with various areas of specialization. Let’s take a look at four key specializations: Clinical Psychology, Health Psychology, Forensic Psychology, and School Psychology. Each of these specializations caters to a unique aspect of psychological study and practice.

Clinical Psychology

Clinical Psychology focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. Professionals in this field work with clients suffering from various psychological issues, such as anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. They use various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy, to offer customized treatment plans for their patients.

Some key responsibilities of a clinical psychologist include:

• Conducting psychological assessments
• Providing therapeutic interventions
• Supervising and training other mental health professionals

Health Psychology

Health Psychology focuses on how biological, psychological, and social factors affect an individual’s physical health and well-being. It aims to identify relationships between psychological processes and health outcomes, enabling healthcare professionals to develop appropriate interventions for promoting health and preventing illness.

Key areas of focus for health psychologists include:

• Understanding the role of stress on physical health
• Developing behavior change interventions for health promotion
• Assessing the psychosocial aspects of chronic illnesses

Forensic Psychology

Forensic Psychology is the intersection between psychology and the criminal justice system. Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles to legal situations, often assisting with criminal investigations, court proceedings, and offender rehabilitation.

Responsibilities of a forensic psychologist may involve:

• Conducting evaluations of suspects, defendants, and offenders
• Providing expert witness testimony in court
• Developing interventions for offender rehabilitation

School Psychology

School Psychology focuses on the psychological and educational development of children and adolescents within a school setting. School psychologists work with students, educators, and families to provide support for academic, emotional, and social development.

Key roles of a school psychologist include:

• Assessing students’ cognitive abilities, academic skills, and emotional development
• Collaborating with educators and parents in developing intervention strategies
• Advocating for appropriate educational accommodations for students with special needs

Each of these specializations offers unique opportunities for professionals to contribute to the field of psychology. By pursuing a Ph.D. in a specific specialization, prospective psychologists can develop focused expertise and advance their careers in their chosen area.

Accredited Doctoral Programs

When considering a Ph.D. in Psychology, one essential factor to consider is the accreditation status of the program. The American Psychological Association (APA) plays a vital role in accrediting doctoral programs, ensuring that they meet the highest quality standards. APA-accredited programs are recognized by employers, state licensing boards, and other educational institutions for their excellence in preparing graduates for professional practice in psychology.

There are two primary types of APA-accredited doctoral programs in psychology: the Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) and the Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology). Generally speaking, Ph.D. programs tend to focus on research and academia, whereas Psy.D. programs emphasize practical application and clinical practice. It’s essential to select a program that aligns with your career goals and personal preferences.

When searching for an affordable Ph.D. or Psy.D. program, consider the following factors:

• Tuition cost: Programs can range from $40,000 to over $80,000, so it’s crucial to find one that fits within your budget.
• Duration: Typically, doctoral programs require four to six years of study, so factor in the time you’re willing to commit.
• Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by the APA or another reputable accrediting body.
• Program structure: Some programs offer a combination of in-person and online coursework, which may provide more flexibility for working professionals.

Several resources, such as Editors’ Choice Best APA Accredited Psy.D. Programs for 2023 and The 25 Most Affordable Ph.D. in Psychology Grad School Programs , can help you find affordable, accredited doctoral programs that suit your needs.

Keep in mind that online doctoral programs can be a more budget-friendly option for those who need flexibility in their schedules. Some of the top affordable online Psy.D. programs offer a quality education at a lower cost compared to traditional in-person programs.

In conclusion, finding an accredited Ph.D. or Psy.D. program that aligns with your academic and financial goals is essential for a successful career in psychology. Be sure to explore various options and consider factors such as accreditation, program structure, and tuition costs before making your decision.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Understanding Tuition

Tuition for Ph.D. programs in psychology can vary widely depending on the institution, program duration, and other factors. It’s essential to not only consider tuition rates but also additional fees and expenses that can impact the overall cost of your degree. Some universities offer affordable Ph.D. in Psychology programs where you can save on tuition costs by selecting the right program.

Available Scholarships

Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of a Ph.D. program in psychology. Several organizations, universities, and foundations offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, or demographic factors. Some prominent psychology associations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) also provide scholarship opportunities . It is crucial to research and apply to as many scholarships as possible to increase your chances of receiving financial assistance.

Grants and Assistantships

Grants and assistantships can provide financial support for doctoral students in psychology. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment and are often awarded based on financial need or academic merit. Assistantships, on the other hand, require students to work part-time in teaching or research roles within the university. In exchange for their work, students receive a stipend and often a significant reduction in tuition costs. Some highly reputed universities like Yale offer full tuition remission and stipends for their psychology doctoral students.

Federal Aid

Federal financial aid is available for eligible doctoral students in psychology programs. To apply for federal aid, students must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form allows the U.S. Department of Education to assess your financial needs and provide information on various federal aid options such as loans, grants, and work-study programs. For more information on the FAFSA and federal aid options, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

When considering the cost of a Ph.D. program in psychology, it’s essential to explore all possible financial aid options, including tuition rates and fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, assistantships, and federal aid. With thorough research and planning, you can find ways to make your psychology doctoral program more affordable.

Research Practices and Curriculum

In most affordable Ph.D. in Psychology programs, the focus is on developing a strong foundation in research practices and curriculum. Students are trained to become proficient in various research methodologies, experimental designs, and psychological theories, which can be applied to contribute to the field of psychology.

An important aspect of the curriculum is gaining expertise in behavior analysis . Students delve into various theories and principles of human behavior, exploring different frameworks to understand and interpret actions and reactions in various settings, such as clinical, educational, and organizational contexts.

The methodology component of the curriculum covers a broad range of approaches, such as quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method research. Students learn about various data collection techniques, statistical analyses, and the ethical considerations involved in conducting psychological research. They also learn to develop and refine research questions, and to create scientifically sound, logically rigorous research designs.

Emphasis on experimental design in a Ph.D. program ensures that students are trained in the strategies used to implement controlled experiments, which can help establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables. The ability to design and execute experiments is a vital skill for psychologists to understand and predict behaviors and to assess the effectiveness of interventions.

Equipping students with the knowledge of various psychological theories is also a priority in the curriculum. A diversified understanding of theories such as cognitive, behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic perspectives allows them to consider multiple approaches to understanding human behavior. This comprehensive knowledge base enables them to choose the most effective, evidence-based interventions for different situations and populations.

To summarize, the curriculum and research practices in affordable Ph.D. programs in Psychology are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in behavior analysis, research methodology, experimental design, and psychological theory. This prepares them to contribute to the field through well-planned, ethical research projects and interventions targeting diverse populations and settings. The knowledge gained from these programs is crucial in producing competent and capable psychologists who can make a lasting impact on the field and the individuals they serve.

Career Prospects for Psychologists

A career in psychology offers a wide range of opportunities, allowing professionals to work in various settings, such as academia, private practice, and industrial and organizational psychology. In this section, we will discuss some of the potential career paths for individuals with a PhD in psychology.

Working in Academia

One common career path for psychologists with a PhD is to work in academia . Roles in academia may include research, teaching, or a combination of both in colleges and universities. According to Psychology.org , the average salary for psychologists is $79,010, but this number can vary depending on the individual’s education, experience, and specialization.

In academia, psychologists are often involved in conducting research, developing theories, and sharing their knowledge by teaching courses to undergraduate and graduate students. They have the opportunity to contribute to the field of psychology, shaping the minds of future psychologists and helping to advance the understanding of human behavior.

Private Practice

For those seeking a more clinical focus, private practice is a popular choice. In this setting, a licensed psychologist may provide therapy to clients, focusing on areas such as mental health, relationships, or personal growth. Private practitioners are typically self-employed, allowing greater autonomy and flexibility in their work schedules.

To work as a licensed psychologist , it is essential to earn a doctorate degree (either PhD or PsyD) and complete the required internships and state licensure exams.

Industrial and Organizational Psychology

Another career path for psychologists with a PhD is industrial and organizational psychology . This field focuses on improving workplace productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall organizational effectiveness.

Industrial and organizational psychologists may be involved in various tasks, such as employee selection and assessment , training program development, performance management, and policy formulation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median salary for industrial-organizational psychologists is $96,270, indicating that this specialty area has attractive earning potential.

To summarize, a PhD in psychology offers various career opportunities in academia, private practice, and industrial and organizational psychology. Each path has distinct advantages and varying salary prospects, depending on factors like specialization, experience, and location.

Admission Requirements and Processes

Before applying to a Ph.D. program in psychology, it’s essential to understand the requirements and processes. An applicant must typically hold a bachelor’s degree (or a master’s degree for some programs). Many universities also require a minimum GPA, often around a 3.0 to 3.5, and may consider the overall academic record and specific coursework.

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is commonly required for psychology doctoral programs. While the minimum GRE scores needed vary among schools, higher scores are usually more competitive. Some universities may also require the GRE Psychology Subject Test in addition to the general exam.

Application processes usually involve submitting a completed application form, accompanied by transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose. Most programs expect at least three letters of recommendation, often from academics or professionals in the field of psychology.

Research experience is an essential aspect of an applicant’s background. Programs may consider an individual’s undergraduate or graduate research projects, and hands-on experience in laboratories to demonstrate a strong research foundation.

Many Ph.D. programs in psychology place a strong emphasis on the fit between the applicant’s research interests and faculty members’ expertise. It is therefore beneficial for prospective students to familiarize themselves with the research conducted by faculty and identify potential supervisors consistent with their interests.

Financial factors could be a significant consideration when selecting colleges, and numerous programs offer scholarships, assistantships, or financial aid. Among the most affordable online doctoral programs in psychology , tuition costs can differ, and comparing program costs will help students choose a reasonable option.

Aspiring Ph.D. students need to be aware of the deadlines for applications. Typically, there are specific dates by which all materials must be submitted. It is crucial to check each school’s website for their respective deadlines and ensure that all documents are completed and submitted promptly.

In conclusion, admission requirements and processes for psychology Ph.D. programs may vary among institutions, but specific commonalities persist. High-quality academic performance, GRE scores, research experience, and matching research interests are all predominant factors to consider. Candidates must be diligent in meeting deadlines and submitting complete application packages to increase their chances of securing admission into an affordable psychology Ph.D. program.

What to Expect from an Online Ph.D. Program

Online Ph.D. programs have become increasingly popular as they allow students to pursue higher education without the constraints of location and time. These programs can be more affordable and accessible than traditional, on-campus counterparts. In this section, we will discuss what to expect from an online Ph.D. in Psychology program.

One of the key advantages of pursuing an online Ph.D. in Psychology is the flexibility it offers. Students can typically arrange their study schedules around their personal and professional commitments. Coursework and research activities can be accessed at the student’s convenience, allowing them to learn at their own pace. This flexibility helps eliminate the need for relocation and the associated costs.

In an online Ph.D. program, students can expect to receive the same comprehensive education as their on-campus peers, including core courses, electives, and research components. Additionally, online psychology programs often allow students to specialize in a specific area of interest such as clinical psychology , cognitive psychology, or social psychology.

Interactions with faculty and fellow students play a crucial role in any Ph.D. program. Online Ph.D. programs utilize advanced technology, providing a range of tools and platforms to facilitate communication among students and faculty. These can include discussion forums, video conferences, and other collaborative software. This creates an interactive and connected learning environment.

An essential aspect of a Ph.D. in Psychology is the research component. Students in online programs can complete their research and collaborate with other students or faculty through online channels. Some online Ph.D. programs may require short on-campus residencies, lab visits, or intensive sessions to provide hands-on learning experiences.

Finally, while online Ph.D. programs are generally more affordable than on-campus programs, financing remains an essential consideration for prospective students. It is crucial to evaluate each program’s tuition costs , fees, and available financial aid options before committing to a program.

Reputation, Recognition, and Rankings

When considering the most affordable Ph.D. in Psychology programs, it is important to take into account not just the cost, but also the reputation, recognition, and rankings of the institutions offering these programs. Prospective students should ensure they choose a program that is accredited and well-regarded in the field of psychology.

A solid indicator of trust is an institution’s accreditation status. Accrediting bodies, such as the Higher Learning Commission , evaluate universities and their programs to ensure they meet certain standards, thus providing students with confidence in their choice of program.

One affordable Ph.D. program in psychology worth mentioning is offered by Saybrook University . It is recognized for its dedication to providing affordable, high-quality education and is known for its hybrid-format programs, which combine online learning with face-to-face interactions.

Another institution that stands out is Keiser University , which offers a Ph.D. in Psychology with a focus on Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Its program ranks highly among affordable options and is recognized for its commitment to providing a comprehensive and research-driven curriculum.

Sources such as Best Value Schools also play a crucial role in evaluating the affordability and value of Ph.D. in Psychology programs. These sources rank programs based on factors like tuition, fees, graduation rates, and overall academic quality.

In summary, when searching for the most affordable Ph.D. in Psychology programs, prospective students should be mindful of factors such as reputation, recognition, and rankings. They must ensure that they choose a program that is accredited, respected, and offers good value for their investment. By striking the right balance between cost and quality, students can pursue their degrees confidently, knowing they are making a sound decision for their future careers.

Outlook and Benefits of a Career in Psychology

Psychologists study various aspects of human behavior, such as cognitive, emotional, and social processes. They aim to understand how individuals relate to one another and to their environments, making the field diverse and rewarding. There are numerous specializations within the field of psychology, including cognitive psychology , humanistic psychology , multicultural psychology , and others.

Job Growth and Prospects

The job outlook for psychologists is promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the demand for psychologists is expected to grow by 3 percent through 2029. This growth can be attributed, in part, to the increasing need for mental health services in schools, hospitals, and social service agencies.

Specializations and Career Options

With a Ph.D. in psychology, individuals can pursue various career paths, depending on their interests and expertise. Some of the popular career options include:

• Clinical Psychologists : They work with patients to assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They may work in private practice, hospitals, or mental health clinics.
• Cognitive Psychologists : These professionals study how people think, perceive, and solve problems. They might work in academic settings or research institutions.
• Humanistic Psychologists : Focusing on personal growth, self-actualization, and the human potential, humanistic psychologists often work in therapeutic settings or as consultants for businesses and organizations.
• Multicultural Psychologists : Specializing in understanding how cultural factors influence psychological processes, these psychologists often work in diverse communities or help develop culturally-sensitive mental health care programs.
• Educational Psychologists : They apply psychological principles to educational settings, working in schools or other educational institutions, helping students and teachers achieve their goals.

Salaries and Earning Potential

Salaries for psychologists can vary depending on the specialization, location, and years of experience. For instance, clinical psychologists typically have higher earnings compared to other specializations. However, earning potential also depends on factors such as educational background, professional experience, and the specific job market in a given location.

In conclusion, a career in psychology can be both financially and personally rewarding. With a diverse range of specializations and a positive job outlook, a Ph.D. in psychology offers multiple opportunities for individuals interested in helping others and contributing to a better understanding of human behavior and mental processes.

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Graduates with a Ph.D. in psychology often qualify for top-level positions in academia, research, and healthcare administration. Doctoral degree-holders who earn a state license can work as private psychologists or offer clinical counseling services in a variety of healthcare settings.

Psychologists help diverse groups of people with a variety of health problems, such as depression, paranoia, addiction, and anxiety. These professionals apply evidence-based treatments to help clients lead more productive lives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists earn a median salary of $80,370 per year, much higher than the median salary of $39,810 for all occupations.

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Psychology PhD Questions

Is a ph.d. in psychology worth it.

Some positions in psychology require a Ph.D. For example, clinical counselors and postsecondary teachers typically need a doctoral degree.

What can I do with a Ph.D. in psychology?

A Ph.D. in psychology often qualifies degree-holders for professional opportunities as higher education administrators, licensed clinical psychologists, and postsecondary teachers.

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

Most students earn their Ph.D. in psychology in 4-6 years. Factors that influence degree completion time include the learner's background and enrollment status.

How much does a psychologist with a Ph.D. make?

According to August 2021 data from PayScale , professionals with a doctorate in psychology earn an average salary of $93,640 per year.

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Why Get an Advanced Degree in Psychology?

A Ph.D. in psychology meets the education requirement for licensure in most states. Graduates of psychology Ph.D. programs can qualify for roles as clinical psychologists, postsecondary teachers, and researchers.

Online psychology degree programs typically follow the same curriculum as their on-campus counterparts. Online learners usually receive instruction from the same faculty members as on-campus students. Additionally, employers typically view online and on-campus degrees as holding equal weight. A doctorate can lead to a variety of career paths, many of which feature high salaries and potential for professional advancement.

How Much Does a Psychology Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics , the average cost of graduate tuition and fees at in-state public institutions was about $12,170 for the 2018-2019 academic year. Graduate students at private schools paid an average of about $27,780 during the same time frame.

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology often save money by enrolling in online classes. Online enrollees typically save on housing and transportation costs, and many distance learners work full time while earning their doctorate. Some public institutions offer in-state tuition rates to all online learners, regardless of residency. This can save out-of-state students thousands of dollars in tuition.

How Much Do Psychology Majors Make?

Doctoral degree-holders earn the highest median salary of all professionals, according to BLS data . However, several factors can influence a professional's earning potential, such as their industry and state.

After earning a Ph.D. in psychology, graduates often work as clinical, counseling, and school psychologists. According to the data from the BLS , these psychologists earn a median salary of $79,820 per year. The employers that hire the highest numbers of these professionals include elementary and secondary schools and healthcare offices.

The clinical, counseling, and school psychologists who earn the highest median salaries work for outpatient care centers ($109,100), childcare services providers ($105,670), and home healthcare providers ($103,520). The top-paying states for these psychologists include California ($115,840), Hawaii ($110,780), Louisiana ($109,180), and Oregon ($108,000).

Doctoral Psychology Course Work

Doctoral students typically craft an individual study plan comprising classes relevant to their academic and professional goals. Most Ph.D. in psychology programs also include foundational courses that all students must take.

Many psychology Ph.D. programs offer specializations in areas such as neuropsychology, psychodynamic psychotherapy, long-term mental illness, and child and family psychology. Available specializations often depend on the school's resources and academic objectives. Most doctoral-level psychology programs require students to complete a dissertation, and learners take research courses to prepare for this culminating project.

Adult Psychopatholgy

Diversity in assessment and intervention, intelligence assessment, certifications and licensure for psychology doctorates.

Ph.D. degree-holders must obtain a license before practicing as psychologists. Licensed psychologists can work in settings such as private clinics and hospitals. Licensure requirements vary by state, but a doctorate in psychology typically meets the education requirement. Professionals can also obtain voluntary certifications to demonstrate skills and training in a specific role or field of practice.

Scholarships for Psychology PhD Students

Doctoral psychology students often receive financial support from their institution in the form of fellowships and grants. Learners can also apply for funding from state and federal agencies, professional organizations, and private nonprofit groups. The following list features a few scholarship opportunities for psychology degree -seekers.

Online PhDs in Psychology 2022

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

#1 Online Ph.D. In Psychology

Liberty University

• Lynchburg, VA
• Online + Campus

An online graduate degree from Liberty University prepares graduates for new career opportunities and advancement. The reasonably priced Ph.D. in psychology gives students a high-quality education. Leaders in psychology may earn a doctoral degree as a way of gaining advanced skills and knowledge.

The school delivers some of the nation's most affordable online doctoral programs. The curriculum includes video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.

Liberty University Fast Facts:

Online Master's Programs: 67

Total Doctoral Programs: 9

Average Per-Credit Fee: $750

Graduate Tuition: $7,980 per year

Transfer Credits Accepted: Yes

Liberty University holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

#2 Online Ph.D. In Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles

• Los Angeles, CA

The online graduate degrees at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles help professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. The Ph.D. in international psychology provides students with a reasonably priced education. Leaders in psychology may earn a doctoral degree as a way of gaining advanced skills and knowledge.

Students first complete 1-3 years of coursework followed by dissertation research and exams. Research and academic careers are two paths that those with a doctoral degree can enter.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles Fast Facts:

Online Master's Programs: 9

Number of Online Doctoral Programs: 6

Average Cost Per Credit: N/A

Graduate Tuition: $21,564 per year

The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, a regional accrediting body.

#3 Online Ph.D. In Psychology

Touro University Worldwide

• Los Alamitos, CA

From its campus in Los Alamitos, California, Touro University Worldwide offers on-campus and online graduate programs as a private institution. The school offers an online doctor of psychology in human and organizational psychology. The doctoral program builds on students' prior knowledge to strengthen advanced skills.

An online learning format appeals to busy enrollees and working professionals who want to pursue a doctorate. Online doctoral students can visit campus to meet with fellow learners or to walk at graduation.

A doctorate, the highest level of education, builds expert-level knowledge in psychology. Earning a doctorate generally takes 3-5 years, depending on the student's enrollment option. With a doctoral degree, professionals may work in academia or research.

Touro University Worldwide at a Glance:

Graduate Tuition: $9,000 

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

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Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated April 23, 2024

Diana Zaremba

Contributing Editor

Reviewed by

Megan Pietrucha

Contributing Reviewer

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Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

Psychology.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

The best online doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in psychology program for you will vary based on your academic background, preferred specialty, tuition and budget, learning style, and logistics such as clinical hours.

This guide outlines the most important factors for you to consider as you narrow your list of Ph.D. in psychology programs and schools. Use the information on this page to help you decide.

Best Online Ph.D. Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. Psychology.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Online + Campus

Students can earn a Ph.D. in psychology through online learning at Keiser University - Fort Lauderdale. The research-based, non-clinical online psychology Ph.D. program comprises 60 credits, which degree-seekers can complete in 36-60 months. 

Students enroll in 20 courses, which they complete through eight-week terms. Courses focus on foundational concepts, such as behavioral neuroscience, research, and a dissertation. Learners also complete two residencies, at the beginning and end of the program. 

Prospective students can apply with a bachelor's or a master's degree, although non-master's students must take extra classes and complete a thesis. Keiser does not require GRE scores for admission. Incoming students can bring apply up to 18 transfer credits. 

National University

• San Diego, CA

At National University, degree-seekers can earn an online Ph.D. in psychology in 46 months. Students can choose from eight specializations: 

• Substance related and addictive disorders
• General psychology
• Health psychology
• Social policy and behavioral health administration 
• Counseling psychology
• Counseling psychology on the California licensure track
• Psychology of gender and sexual fluidity
• Gerontology
• Industrial organizational psychology
• Trauma and disaster relief

Most specializations focus on theory and research, although the counseling in psychology with the California licensure track trains students to clinically practice as psychologists. Each focus area requires 20 courses. 

Applicants must hold a master's degree. Those who don't already possess a psychology graduate degree must apply through the evaluation track, in which the university evaluates applicants' previous coursework. The university offers six full-tuition scholarships for graduate students. 

Saybrook University

• Pasadena, CA

Based in Pasadena, California, Saybrook University offers a 66-credit online psychology Ph.D. degree. Students need 60-75 credits to graduate, finishing the program in 5-6 years. Although the program follows a web-based format, Ph.D. candidates participate in on-campus residential orientations and conferences as well.

The curriculum focuses on humanistic theory, with emphasis on conscious awareness and responsible living. The program offers four concentrations: 

• Consciousness, spirituality, and integrative health
• Creativity studies
• Existential and humanistic psychology
• Psychophysiology 

Learners in all specializations complete a dissertation to graduate. 

Saybrook only considers prospective students with a master's degree, but applicants do not need GRE scores for admission. Students can also apply to transfer up to 12 credits from previous studies. 

Our Ranking Methodology

Psychology.org ranks education programs using data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education. Our vetting process also includes a quality assurance team that assesses datasets for accuracy.

Psychology.org reserves the right to exclude any schools that lack significant data from the rankings to ensure accurate calculations. This ranking is from 2023. For more about how Psychology.org evaluates and ranks education programs, read more about our full ranking methodology .

What to Look For in an Online Psychology Ph.D.

Every Ph.D. in psychology has strengths and weaknesses, so the secret to finding the right program is making sure it aligns with the factors that matter most to you. Understanding your goals and needs will help you weigh these factors.

Primary Factors to Consider

Accreditation.

Accreditation of psychology programs is the most important factor of all, so much so that this guide and website only list accredited programs. The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits psychology Ph.D. programs, but does not accredit online programs.

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP) both track accreditation status, which you can check on the DAPIP or CHEA websites .

Admission Requirements

You will generally need a master's degree from an accredited program to apply for a Ph.D. in psychology program, though some schools accept other degrees.

Most psychology Ph.D. programs require at least a 3.25 GPA, two or more references, and an application with an essay or personal statement. Requirements can tell you what the school values and what your classmates will be like.

Cost and Financial Aid

Cost and financial aid for psychology students should also be considered, since it takes years to finish a psychology Ph.D. However, if your dream Ph.D. in psychology seems out of reach financially, you may be eligible for loan forgiveness or a scholarship if you commit to work in an underserved area once you graduate. Many Ph.D. programs also offer paid assistantships or TA positions that can help offset costs.

Hybrid and Online Options

Because of the importance of personal interaction in supervising clinical hours, there are no 100% online fully accredited psychology Ph.D. programs to date. However, hybrid programs let you finish some of your work online — typically the classes that cover theory, methodology, and research techniques. You may be able to complete up to two-thirds of your classes online.

Practical Experience Requirements

Psychology Ph.D. programs require practicum and internship hours in psychology . During the practicum, you will spend most of your time observing. In your internship, you will work directly with patients at an increasing level of independence.

Schools typically help you find a placement or arrange practicums, but you must find and apply for your internship. Be aware that there are often more applicants than approved internship openings, so start your planning early during your Ph.D. in psychology.

How to Apply to an Online Psychology Ph.D.

To apply for a Ph.D. in psychology , you must have a master's degree, references, essay or personal statement, and resume. You may need to complete a criminal background check.

Give yourself plenty of time to apply and have a trusted mentor review your application to make sure that it represents you and your strengths. You will need to send your references and transcript securely; different schools have different methods for this.

If you do not have a master's in psychology, you will need to document that your program included the requisite topics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Doctorates

Are online psychology degrees respected.

An online psychology degree earns the same diploma as the on-campus program. However, there are no fully accredited doctoral psychology programs that are entirely online.

Is it possible to get a Ph.D. in psychology online?

You cannot earn a Ph.D. or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) entirely online, though some psychology Ph.D. programs include classes with an online option.

How long is a Ph.D. in psychology?

A psychology Ph.D. typically takes 5-7 years. This psychology degree prepares you either to teach or work as a practicing psychologist.

How much can you make as a psychologist?

According to data from the BLS , psychologists earn a median annual salary of $92,740. Salaries for psychologists range from $52,430 to $151,880 a year, among top earners as of May 2023. Clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median annual salary of $96,100.

Page last reviewed October 20, 2022. This page's information — not including school descriptions — was reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Psychology.org.

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8 Most Affordable Online Psychology PhD Programs

With strong job demand and salaries anticipated for years to come, psychology doctoral programs are popular throughout America. At the doctoral level, psychology professionals have ample job opportunities in private practice, academia and research. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes a 3% increase in jobs in the psychology field through 2029, and a median salary of $80,370. ( BLS.gov ).

SEE ALSO:  Best Online PsyD Degree Programs

As you review the online doctoral degree in psychology options, one of the most critical factors of course is what it costs. While program quality is of immense importance, it also is key to understand what the program will cost you in the long run. It is helpful to incur the minimum amount of student debt when your program concludes and you enter the workforce.

With these facts in mind, we have reviewed many affordable online psychology doctoral programs. These eight came out on top in affordability.

#1 Capella University

Capella University’s Ph.D. in psychology programs and specializations offers tools that you can use to greatly expand your career options. It features a professionally aligned curriculum that integrates vital psychology and research courses with the specialization content that you choose. Also, students learn the newest in psychological research and practice from experienced faculty who work actively in the psychology field.

*Visit Capella University

91% of alumni said Capella gave them the flexibility to graduate on schedule. -Source: Gallup Research Study, 2016.

• Campus : Online
• Type : Private, For-Profit
• Accreditation : Higher Learning Commission
• PsyD in Clinical Psychology
• PsyD in School Psychology
• Ph.D. in General Psychology
• Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis
• Ph.D. in Educational Psychology
• Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology
• Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Ph.D. (Undecided)
• Other Requirements : 66 cr. hours
• Minimum Time Commitment : 48 months
• On Campus Requirements : No
• Per Cr. Cost : $425 to $790 per cr. hour, depending upon your level of education and other factors (inquire for more details).

#2 Walden University

Walden University’s Online Ph.D. in psychology program helps you to combine practical knowledge and research so you can succeed as an academic or practicing psychologist in many settings. Students will explore the latest theories, findings and best practices in psychological practice, and you will be able to apply these critical skills to your work right away. Students are also able to contact faculty for a chance to network with thought leaders in the field, ask questions, and ensure their career and education is on the right path. ( Walden.Edu )

• PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership
• Ph.D in Forensic Psychology
• Ph.D. in Social Psychology
• Ph.D. in Health Psychology
• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
• Ph.D. in I/O Psychology
• Other Requirements : 67 cr. hours
• Per Cr. Cost : $585 per quarter hour for classes and dissertation; total cost is up to $68,445

#3 Northcentral University

The online Ph.D. in psychology programs at Northcentral University has been designed to address the quickly growing interest in the field. Students have the opportunity to hone their critical thinking abilities in psychology, increase their knowledge base in the field, and learn to evaluate social, individual, organizational and global issues. Students are taught to excel in the field with a stress on experiential learning that involves case studies, scenarios, vignettes and real life situations. ( NCU.Edu )

• DPSY Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy
• DPSY Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
• DPSY Doctor of Psychology
• DPSY Marriage and Family Therapy
• Couple Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Child & Adolescent Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Doctor of Psychology (PhD) – Marriage and Family Therapy
• Doctorate of Marriage and Family Therapy
• General Family Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• General Psychology – PhD of Psychology
• Health Psychology – PhD of Psychology
• Industrial Organizational Psychology – PhD of Psychology
• Medical Family Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Mental Health Policy and Practice – Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
• PhD – Addictions
• PhD – Gerontology
• PhD – Trauma and Disaster Relief
• PhD-MFT – Culture, Diversity & Social Justice in a Global Context
• PhD-MFT – Education and Supervision
• PhD-MFT – Systemic Leadership
• Therapy with Military Families – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Other Requirements : 60 cr. hours
• Pre Cr. Cost : $3600 per course; total tuition is $69,950

#5 Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers a Online Ph.D. in General Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition and Instruction . This degree is intended to teach you how to bridge the gap of student achievement, as you will evaluate and explore information and processes to devise the best methods for instruction for postsecondary education in the 21st century. You will study a range of topics that are important regarding the analysis and construction of student learning outcomes, such as social cognition and assessments. You will take small classes in dynamic, online learning environments so you can continue to work and go to school. ( GCU.edu )

• Type : Non-Profit
• Degree : Ph.D. in General Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition and Instruction
• Per Cr. Cost : $650 per cr. hour

#6 Saybrook University

Saybrook University offers an online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that will prepare you for licensure in many states. This four year program has been specifically designed to focus on practical skills and knowledge you need to enter professional psychological practice. Coursework focuses on data analyses and meta-analyses; psychotherapy; developmental psychology; child and adolescent psychology; multicultural psychology; and humanistic-integrative psychology. ( Saybrook.edu ).

• Type : Private, Non-Profit
• Accreditation : Senior Commission of Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Degree : Ph.D. in Psychology
• Other Requirements : 62 cr. hours
• $1,150 per cr. hour

#7 California Southern University

California Southern University offers a Psy.D. that is an applied, clinically focused degree that meets all educational requirements for getting your license as a clinical psychologist in California. This program ends with a doctoral project that is focused on a psychology topic about which you are most passionate. The Psy.D. program differs from the Ph.D. as it is a more clinically-focused degree, with the intent for the student to become a practicing psychologist. ( CalSouthern.edu ).

SEE ALSO: California Southern Psy.D. Psychology Review

• Campus: Online
• Type: Private, Non-Profit
• Accreditation: Senior Commission of Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Degree: Ph.D. in Psychology
• Other Requirements: 66 cr. hours
• Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
• On Campus Requirements: No
• $545 per cr. hour

#8 Meridian University

Meridian University offers a Ph.D. in Psychology that provides 48 months of courses in Imaginal Psychology. It draws upon spiritual traditions, creative arts, somatic practices, mythology and literary and poetic imagination. Building on the main curriculum the first two years, the last two years focuses on research, clinical and cultural praxis skills, and also acquiring the fundamental knowledge base of psychology as a profession. This four year program is designed to meet all educational requirements to earn your psychology license in California. ( MeridianUniversity.edu ).

• Type: For Profit
• Degree: Ph.D. in General Psychology
• Other Requirements: 60 cr. hours
• $20,280 per year.

#9 Keiser University

Keiser University offers an online Ph.D. in Psychology that has been designed to challenge students with the most rigorous courses and teaching and research work. Students will understand all psychological principles and theories, such as motivation, learning, behavior and emotion. You also will evaluate social services programs and educational programs to include curriculum development, evaluation and assessment strategies.

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• Tuition: Inquire

*Indicates school is a Featured Partner.  Click here for disclosure on Featured Partners. 

• Doctoral Programs. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.capella.edu/online-psychology-degrees/doctoral-programs/
• Ph.D. in Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.waldenu.edu/online-doctoral-programs/phd-in-psychology/tuition-fees
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.ncu.edu/programs-degrees/doctoral/doctor-philosophy-psychology#gref
• Psy.D. Degree. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.calsouthern.edu/online-psychology-degrees/psy-d-program-doctor-psychology-degree
• Ph.D. in Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.saybrook.edu/areas-of-study/humanistic-clinical-psychology/phd-psychology/
• Ph.D. in Psychology. Retrieved from  https://meridianuniversity.edu/admissions/tuition-and-financial-aid/cost-of- attendance
• Ph.D. in Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.gcu.edu/degree-programs/phd-psychology-cognition-instruction
• Psychologists. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm
• Best Online PsyD Degree Programs. (2019). Retrieved from  https://psydprograms.org/accredited-online-psyd-programs/

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Affordable Schools

Because high quality education can be affordable

35 Most Affordable Online Psychology Degree Programs (Ph.D.) 2020

Methodology

Affordability is typically one of the most important considerations for many prospective students, which is why we have compiled a selection of the 35 most affordable online doctoral programs in psychology. We conducted a search for the term “Ph.D./Psy.D. in Psychology degree online” using the College Navigator database at the Center for Education Statistics. We narrowed down the initial pool of 40 postsecondary students before finding the 35 most affordable based on in-state graduate tuition for the entire length of the program.

Ranking Low-Cost Online Ph.D. in Psychology Programs

35. fielding graduate university, santa barbara, california, online ph.d. in clinical psychology.

Tuition: $115,100 (information provided by the University)

Fielding Graduate University offers an online Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology degree that echoes Fielding’s mission statement: to create a more sustainable, just, and humane world. Students can complete the program in five or six years, and the curriculum is provided in a hybrid format consisting of a combination of virtual, in-person, and online activities and classes. Students are required to complete research training and a dissertation, a clinical internship, and a clinical practicum prior to graduating. Available concentrations include social justice and diversity, neuropsychology, health psychology, and forensic psychology.

34. William James College

Newton, massachusetts, online leadership psychology doctorate.

Tuition: $139,650

The online Psy.D. in Leadership Psychology at William James College is a four- to six-year program that teaches students new tools and techniques that they can apply and test in their current roles. Students complete the hybrid program at their own pace online through discussion boards, readings, and lectures, and they are also required to come to campus three times per year for a four-day residency. The 98-credit curriculum includes required courses in adult development, team and group development, neurobiology of leadership, organization development and change, the psychology of leadership and followership, and ethics and standards of practice in leadership. In addition to the coursework, students must also complete a 400-hour internship project at an organization and a 600-hour practicum.

33. Saybrook University

Oakland, california.

Tuition: $122,850

Saybrook University offers a highly rated online psychology doctoral program in clinical psychology. Students pursuing this educational path can tailor their degree by selecting one of four concentrations: psychophysiology; existential, humanistic, and transpersonal psychology; creative studies; and consciousness, spirituality, and integrative health. Although most of the coursework is available entirely online, students are required to attend a few residential conferences in San Francisco. The 105- to 108-credit curriculum can be completed within five years and adheres to the counselor licensing requirements in several states. The program includes coursework in areas such as personality theory and research, systems of psychotherapy, developmental psychology, clinical intervention, human behavior, and multiculturalism. Students are required to complete a practicum, internship, and pass an exam prior to graduation.

32. Antioch University New England

Keene, new hampshire, online ph.d. in marriage and family therapy.

Tuition: $108,694

Antioch University New England offers a Doctor of Psychology in Marriage and Family Therapy that focuses on social justice applications to marriage and family therapy, preparing graduate students for research, supervision, leadership, and academic careers. The program focuses significantly on research training, and students are required to complete one year of supervised clinical practice as well as one year of additional practical experience in leadership, consultation, teaching, and/or supervision. Those without a master’s degree or experience in marriage and family therapy may be required to take additional prerequisite coursework. Students must also attend a total of 11 residencies throughout the program and complete their degree within six years.

31. Felician University

Rutherford, new jersey, online doctorate of counseling psychology program.

Tuition: $88,440

While not a fully online program, the 88-credit Doctorate of Counseling Psychology program at Felician University offers classes both online and on-campus in Lodi and Rutherford, New Jersey. The program is based on objectives developed within the principles of the American Psychological Association (APA), which is important for students who wish to become licensed after graduation. The program can be completed in four or five years, and students learn what it takes to become psychologists in today’s healthcare system as well as how to effectively provide behavioral and mental care by creating connections between behavioral and physical health. Some of the courses offered include learning and cognition, health psychology, healthcare systems, evidence-based theories, and clinical theories. An APA internship and doctoral practicum are also part of the program requirements.

30. Pacifica Graduate Institute

Online m.a./ph.d. in jungian psychology and archetypal studies.

Tuition: $86,700

A truly unique program, the hybrid M.A./Ph.D. in Jungian Psychology and Archetypal Studies at Pacifica Graduate Institute caters to students who have an interest in exploring the practices and theories of Jungian psychology as well as the human psyche. The goal of the program is to shift focus from a clinical space out into the real world. Some topics addressed throughout the course of the program include the development of consciousness, individuation, spirit, myth, and healing. Courses are available online, but students are required to visit the campus four times per year. To earn the degree, students must complete 90 credit hours of study, an oral exam, a scholarly article fit for publication, and a doctoral dissertation.

29. Arizona State University

Tempe, arizona, online doctor of behavioral health, tuition: $86,680.

The 84-credit Doctor of Behavioral Health at Arizona State University is designed for working students and prepares them to pursue professional careers in the field of behavioral health. Students can expect a curriculum that emphasizes improving clinical outcomes and integrated behavioral health. The school provides online synchronous courses with live chat, including classes in population-based health management, models of integrated primary care, and financial management in healthcare. Students must also successfully complete a 400-hour clinical internship as well as a capstone research project that details a plan specific to each student’s career goals. Depending on the cohort and the year, admission to the program can be competitive.

28. Adler University

Chicago, illinois, online ph.d. in industrial and organizational psychology.

Tuition: $85,200

The innovative online Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology at Adler University trains students to be forward-thinking experts who draw on a deep understanding of motivation and scientific research to maximize human potential. The program is 100 percent online with no residencies, and graduates go on to foster psychologically healthy environments in fields as diverse as the public sector, academia, nonprofits, corporate enterprise, and consulting. Students take a 75-credit-hour curriculum that includes at least 12 credits in dissertation and coursework in areas such as leadership and management, advanced organizational theory, advanced research methods, and advanced consulting skills.

27. Oregon State University

Corvallis, oregon, online ph.d. in counseling.

Tuition: $85,050

Oregon State University offers a CACREP-accredited online psychology doctoral program that is aimed at preparing graduates for advocate and leadership roles in the field. The hybrid program involves both online and face-to-face instruction for all courses. However, most on-campus instruction occurs two times per quarter during blocks on a Friday and Saturday. Although the 150-credit program provides information regarding professional licensure, courses are not formally approved for those seeking licensure in states other than Oregon. The curriculum explores issues that today’s counselors face as well as topics such as consultation, career counseling, assessment, advanced theory and practice, supervision, counselor education, diversity and social justice, and group counseling. To be admitted, students must submit three letters of recommendation and have professional experience, a strong academic background, and a master’s degree in counseling or a related field.

26. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Online ph.d. in organizational leadership.

Tuition: $84,940

The online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology can be completed within three to four years. Students may elect to pursue a concentration in trauma services that equips them with the skills they need to lead organizations in developing preparedness and prevention training. Coursework is available online and includes classes in areas such as self-care strategies in humanitarian efforts, mental health interventions, and the assessment of mental health and psychosocial reactions to traumatic stress. In addition to online coursework, students must also engage in two residencies, each lasting three and one-half days, at the school’s Chicago campus. A third residency is optional. The doctoral program is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

25. Keiser University

Fort lauderdale, florida, online ph.d. in psychology.

Tuition: $84,000

Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Keiser University offers an online Doctor of Psychology that is carefully designed to help students achieve success, both during the course of the program as well as after graduation. Keiser offers two tracks for this program: one for those with a bachelor’s degree and one for those with a master’s degree. Each course is eight weeks in length, and most students take two courses at a time. Students will be exposed to topics such as the sociocultural basis of behavior, behavioral neuroscience, psychopathology, and evolutionary psychology. Students must complete 60 credit hours to earn their degree plus 18 additional hours if they have not yet earned their master’s degree. Prior to graduation, students are also required to complete 12 credit hours of dissertation courses.

24. Nova Southeastern University

Online ph.d. in conflict analysis & resolution.

Tuition: $83,220

The Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Nova Southeastern University trains students in the techniques and skills of cultural analysis, historical critique, policy and program development, interdisciplinary research, practice, and theoretical foundations of the field. Students pursue an in-depth study of conflict resolution while drawing from the knowledge of an interdisciplinary, experienced faculty and a variety of theoretical perspectives. Graduates of the 76-credit-hour program are prepared for careers as organization administrators, researchers, program evaluators, consultants, advanced practitioners, and more. In addition to core courses, students may pursue concentrations in areas such as interpersonal conflict, global conflict, conflict in organizations, and community-based conflict. Students taking distance learning courses are required to attend two five-day residential institutes per year.

23. Alaska Pacific University

Anchorage, alaska, online doctor of psychology.

Tuition: $78,120

The online Doctor of Psychology degree at Alaska Pacific University is designed in a way that allows students to further their education while still maintaining their work and life responsibilities. Blended class formats and weekend intensives make it convenient for working professionals and those outside of Alaska to earn their degree. Students come together online in six two-hour synchronous e-Learning sessions and four three-day weekend intensives. Courses include substance abuse assessment and non-diagnostic assessment, professional ethics, evidence-based treatment for families and children, and biological bases of behavior. An internship, dissertation, and practicum must be completed to satisfy degree requirements. Although the hybrid program is not accredited by the American Psychological Association, the curriculum does align with its standards. The curriculum is also designed to meet the academic requirements for licensing as a psychologist in the state of Alaska.

22. Alliant International University

San diego, california, online doctor of psychology in educational psychology.

Tuition: $77,770

The Psy.D. in Educational Psychology at Alliant International University is designed for students who currently hold a PPS credential in school psychology or a PPS credential in school counseling, and this credential is a requirement for admission. Coursework in behavior interventions, developmental psychopathology, and psychopharmacology helps students fine-tune their understanding of what makes children tick and how they can help kids reach their fullest potential. Alliant offers a unique blend of online and on-campus coursework, giving students the opportunity to lead treatment, evaluation, and assessment plans in private, non-profit, and government organizations at the national, state, or local level.

21. Sofia University

Palo alto, california, online doctor of philosophy in transpersonal psychology.

Tuition: $71,250

The online Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology is offered in online and onsite formats, and students enrolled in this program explore courses in five concentrations: Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience, Consciousness and Creativity Studies, Whole Systems Approach to Health and Wellbeing, Applied Transpersonal Psychology, and Transpersonal Education and Research. Students must complete 75 units of coursework, and they are required to attend three one-unit in-person seminars in Northern California. Students must complete these three seminars prior to entering the dissertation phase of the program. Although this program is not a clinical degree, the school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, a premier accrediting organization.

20. Northcentral University

Online doctor of philosophy in psychology.

Tuition: $69,750

Northcentral University’s online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology is a non-licensure program that is designed to be completed within 48 months and offers eight professionally relevant specializations such as mental health policy and practice, health psychology, gerontology, general psychology, gender diversity, and addictions. The program offers flexible online courses and multiple start dates, and it is adaptable to busy schedules. Throughout the online Ph.D. in Psychology, students are prepared to excel with an emphasis on applied experiential learning with vignettes, scenarios, case studies, and real-life situations. Students must complete 20 courses for a total of 60 credit hours of study.

19. Loyola University Chicago

Online ed.d. in school psychology.

Tuition: $68,328

The online Ed.D. in School Psychology at Loyola University Chicago is a blended program designed for practicing school psychologists looking to advance their careers by earning a doctoral degree. It was developed with the goal of meeting the needs of school psychologists who wish to become more informed leaders and professionals within the educational community. Applicants must hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License or hold a school psychology license in another state. The program consists of 72 graduate semester hours and covers core areas such as evidence-based interventions, statistics and research, and family, school, and community collaboration. Students may choose from two tracks, the mental health track and the data-based decision-making track, each of which includes an additional 12 credits in specialty courses.

18. School Removed

17. michigan state university, east lansing, michigan, online ph.d. in educational psychology and educational technology.

Tuition: $64,098

Michigan State University’s hybrid Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology degree is a five-year program in which students take one online course in the fall and spring semesters and two courses during the summer semester. Students are required to attend a two-week on-campus session during the summer. In addition to the general course requirements, students are required to choose three emphasis courses in areas such as teachers and technology, current issues in motivation and learning, socio-emotional development, and cognitive development. Like most doctoral programs, students are required to complete and defend a doctoral dissertation prior to graduation.

16. Endicott College

Beverly, massachusetts, online ph.d in applied behavior analysis.

Tuition: $63,640

Endicott College’s Van Loan School offers a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis that prepares students to work as scientists and professors within the fields of public policy, education, industry, and business. Focusing on human behavior, students may take this program entirely online or in the classroom, allowing maximum flexibility for busy students. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis or related field, and the school recommends that students hold BCBA certification or be licensed behavior analysts. The full curriculum is 60 credits and includes a dissertation and research project. Students will delve into areas of applied behavior analysis such as experimental design and analysis, research in social skills training, conditioning and learning, research methods, and analysis and intervention in developmental disabilities.

15. Lesley University

Cambridge, massachusetts, online doctor of philosophy in expressive therapies.

Tuition: $57,475

Although not a traditional online doctoral degree in psychology, the Doctor of Philosophy in Expressive Therapies from Lesley University is a 45-credit program that incorporates a research focus into a work-from-home format. The program combines artistic, development, and research opportunities for growth with artistic inquiry and expression. The four-year program is built on a low-residency model that requires students to come to the school’s campus each July for a residency. During the residencies, students design research projects, connect with their peers, attend small classes and seminars, and meet with faculty advisers. The fourth year of study is devoted entirely to completing and defending a dissertation. Applicants must hold a master’s degree and have at least three years of experience as an expressive therapist.

14. University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, kentucky, online psy.d. clinical psychology.

Tuition: $56,650

The online Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of the Cumberlands is a hybrid, 103-credit program, and students take most of their courses Fridays through Sundays. The remaining credits are available online. Courses include focus areas in psychodynamic approaches to treatment, cognitive and behavioral approaches to treatment, and practicums in assessment and psychotherapy. Students may also choose from a list of specialized courses covering topics such as forensic psychology, comprehensive assessment, grief and crisis interventions, advanced psychopharmacology, and clinical applications. The program culminates in a clinical internship and doctoral research project. Those interested in pursuing a predoctoral internship in clinical psychology may take an additional nine credits.

13. Capella University

Minneapolis, minnesota.

Students earning a Ph.D. in Psychology at Capella University can expect to begin their doctoral dissertations as soon as class begins. Between challenging general coursework, seminars to increase knowledge, and specialized courses to help students develop a topic, the program offers a rigorous academic experience. The program is designed to help students deepen their understanding of human behavior, preparing them for research, academic, or clinical settings. Students can choose from several specializations in general psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, educational psychology, and developmental psychology. Capella University also offers a Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis.

12. Eastern University

St. davids, pa.

Tuition: $49,440

The Department of Marriage and Family Therapy at Eastern University offers both a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Doctor of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy Studies. Both programs train individuals from pastoral and clinical backgrounds to create positive change in church communities, individuals, couples, and families. The degrees are delivered in a hybrid format with both online and face-to-face educational interactions. Students are required to complete a research project and doctoral dissertation, and the faculty members are active in service, scholarship, pedagogy, and clinical practice, all with an emphasis on justice, reason, and faith.

11. Central Michigan University

Mount pleasant, michigan, online doctor of philosophy in school psychology, tuition: $47,530.

The Doctor of Philosophy in School Psychology at Central Michigan University is an APA-accredited program designed to extend the training of the specialist-level school psychologist so that he or she has the knowledge and skills to serve communities and educational systems. The program is based on the scientist-practitioner model and emphasizes the application of behavioral science. Students may complete the program in four years of field experience and intensive academic preparation as well as a full-time, one-year internship. Students are only admitted on a full-time basis and can expect to take nine to 12 credits per semester. Students with an undergraduate degree must complete 106 graduate credit-hours, while those with a master’s in school psychology must complete 70 graduate credit hours.

10. Amridge University

Montgomery, alabama.

Tuition: $46,800

Offered by the School of Human Services at Amridge University, the Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy degree is a 60-semester-hour research-oriented program. It is not designed to prepare students for licensure, but students will complete intensive studies in research, cultural diversity, problems with abuse and addiction, human development, and the theories of marriage and family therapy. Courses are partly delivered online and also taught from traditional class settings, covering areas such as applied adult development, medical family therapy, analysis of substance abuse interventions, integrative models of marriage and family therapy, and professional counseling in the Ph.D. setting. Students attending full-time may earn the degree within four years, and they are required to complete a dissertation prior to graduation.

9. Texas Tech University

Lubbock, texas, online educational psychology – ph.d..

Tuition: $39,337

The online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology at Texas Tech caters to students who have worked in or studied health sciences, psychology, sports sciences, human sciences, and education. The program is offered in a hybrid format with one-week summer sessions, online coursework, and some required on-campus time. The school places a special emphasis on preparing students for academic roles and teaching, but students may also choose to follow a practitioner path such as one in school psychology. Students must complete 91 credit hours in order to graduate, and the curriculum is divided into three interrelated phases: the candidacy phase, the intermediate phase, and the foundation phase.

8. Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, arizona, online doctor of philosophy in general psychology with an emphasis in industrial and organizational psychology.

Tuition: $39,000

Grand Canyon University offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in General Psychology with an emphasis in industrial-organizational psychology that allows students to participate in an in-depth exploration of how people behave in different settings. Students can expect to focus on human behavior at work, methods and principles, and employee-management relationships with the goal of accelerating organizational, group, and individual performance through change management, coaching, and consulting. The 60-credit program includes core courses in behaviorism, psychoanalysis and psychodynamic theory, principles of I/O psychology, statistics, qualitative research methods, and the psychology of leadership, consulting, and coaching. In addition to completing coursework, students are required to participate in two hands-on doctoral residencies. The program does not lead to licensure.

7. Texas Woman’s University

Denton, texas, online ph.d. in family therapy.

Tuition: $36,677

The Ph.D. in Family Therapy at Texas Woman’s University is offered in a hybrid, blended format, meaning most of the courses consist of both online and face-to-face classes. The goal of the program is to prepare systemic family therapists to contribute to family therapy theory and scholarship as advanced educators, supervisors, researchers, and clinicians. The program consists of 90 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree, with at least 30 of these credits focused on research, dissertation, and a two-semester internship. The degree contains the courses required by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage & Family Therapists, and students are eligible to sit for the national licensing examination after they earn their degree.

6. Liberty University

Lynchburg, virginia, online ph.d. in counselor education and supervision.

Tuition: $35,700

The 60-credit-hour online Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at Liberty University can be completed within four years. The CACREP-accredited program aims to develop spiritually and ethically aware mental health counselor educators and counselors who possess the personal disposition, skills, knowledge, and values to promote the holistic and mental health wellness of clients across diverse populations. Courses integrate a biblical worldview, while also preparing students to serve a diverse culture. In addition to coursework, students must complete advanced field experiences and internships, allowing them to gain work experience and connect with professionals in the field.

5. Touro University Worldwide

Los alamitos, california, online doctor of psychology in human and organizational psychology.

Touro University Worldwide offers a fully online doctoral degree in human and organizational psychology — no GRE or residency required. Students can take advantage of affordable tuition and an accelerated admissions process as they become part of a complex, exciting field of study. The online Ph.D. in Human and Organizational Psychology focuses on how students can specifically implement psychology in the workplace; students also focus on industrial psychology and leadership psychology. The goal of the program is to teach students how to turn theory into action, and the course structure includes various research options and group assignments. Once students complete the required courses in practice, research, and theory, they begin the proposal, or pre-dissertation, phase and finish their degree with a doctoral dissertation.

4. Regent University

Virginia beach, virginia, online ph.d. in counseling & psychological studies.

Tuition: $33,150

Regent University’s online Ph.D. in Counseling and Psychological Studies is designed to prepare Christian leaders and scholars in psychological science, research, and mental health counseling. The program is available entirely online and consists of 51 credits of study. Areas of study may include political structures and policy analysis, indigenous mental health care, ethics and legal issues, and concepts of the family systems. Students can choose either a research or clinical concentration within the program and select one of 11 available specializations. Graduates may choose to become researchers, writers, guidance directors, or faculty members or leaders within global universities.

3. California Southern University

Costa mesa, california.

Tuition: $32,670

The School of Behavioral Sciences at California Southern University offers an online Doctor of Psychology degree that is designed to lead to licensure as a clinical psychologist. The 66-credit program includes coursework that can be taken online and covers areas such as statistical methods and analysis, research methods in psychology, history and systems of psychology, ethical and professional issues, and advanced theories of personality. Internship and practicum opportunities are also available. Students are required to complete a final doctoral project that serves as a culmination of their educational training, and the degree can be completed within four years.

2. University of Louisiana Monroe

Monroe, louisiana, online doctor of philosophy with a concentration in systemic studies.

Tuition: $21,683

The doctoral program with a concentration in systemic studies is designed for professionals who desire deeper studies of the contexts that advance the practices necessary for change. The program consists of 60 semester units of study, or two years of full-time coursework, as well as a dissertation. Throughout the program, courses go beyond disciplinary limitations, and students will learn strategies of relevant research. Other areas of study include issues and problems in systemic and marriage and family therapy, family systems, social ecology, and family therapy. Nonclinical in emphasis, this degree does not prepare students to be eligible for licensure as a marriage and family therapist.

1. California Coast University

Santa ana, california, online doctor of education in educational psychology.

Tuition: $19,140

California Coast University offers an online Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology that aims to train leaders in the developing knowledge of the legal, historical, and philosophical underpinnings for student success. Throughout the program, students become familiar with the broad theories of education psychology, interpreting scientific data in educational research and applying skills in measurement theory. Students also further develop their ability to analyze the larger cultural, economic, social, and political environment and the potential impacts on education. The program consists of 66 semester hours of study and is available entirely online. Students round out their degree with a comprehensive examination as well as a proposal, dissertation, and oral defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the career options for an online ph.d. in psychology.

A doctoral degree in psychology prepares students for a career in the field of psychology, typically in a specialty such as health, counseling, or industrial-organizational psychology. Most organizations require candidates to hold a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree. These degrees are also mandatory for state licensure. Individuals who hold the appropriate doctoral degrees in psychology are often highly sought-after, not just in social work and healthcare settings but also by the military, organizations, and schools. The following are several career options for those with an online Ph.D. in Psychology:

• Developmental Psychologist : From behavior and circumstance to ways of thinking, humans change over a lifetime. Developmental psychologists can assist in adjusting, coping, and dealing. They primarily work with two groups of people: the elderly and children/adolescents. In turn, many developmental psychologists practice in retirement homes, centers for the homeless, and healthcare facilities.
• School Psychologist : School psychologists are uniquely qualified members of school teams that support teachers’ ability to teach and students’ ability to learn. They apply expertise in behavior, learning, and mental health to help youth and children succeed emotionally, behaviorally, socially, and academically.
• Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychologist : An industrial-organizational psychologist helps businesses and organizations relate to their employees, thus facilitating greater job satisfaction and workplace productivity. I/O psychologists work together with management and human resources to help in the areas of training, hiring and retention, company culture, and team morale.
• Forensic Psychologist : Forensic psychology is a newer specialty of the psychology doctorate, and forensic psychologists work in the criminal justice and legal system, mainly assisting on cases to help explain psychological aspects such as defense and motivation. While many forensic psychologists work in private practices, they may also be on staff at educational institutions, courts, mental health centers, and hospitals.
• Health Psychologist : A health psychologist is a clinical psychologist who studies how behavioral and psychological factors interact with healthcare, wellness, and health. These professionals typically work in either private practices or in healthcare settings such as community centers, clinics, or hospitals. Health psychologists examine how psychological factors influence our physiology/health.

What is the Employment Outlook for Online Doctor of Psychology Graduates?

Although earning a master’s degree in psychology can help graduates obtain some positions in the field such as a research assistant, the most desirable prospects are reserved for graduates who hold a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in Psychology. In order to practice as a legally recognized “psychologist,” an individual must be licensed, and most states require candidates to hold a doctoral degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , graduates who indicate a specialty such as forensics or I/O psychology are at an even greater advantage. The demand for psychologists is expected to grow 14 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. However, employment growth will vary by occupation.

How Long Does it Take to Earn an Online Ph.D. in Psychology?

On average, students should expect to complete the online Psy.D. or Ph.D. in Psychology program within six years. Factors such as whether a student is attending part- or full-time naturally influence program length. For a doctorate in psychology, especially the Psy.D. and the Ed.S. for school psychologists, fieldwork is a requirement that may be achieved through a residency, supervised research project, or internship.

As is the case with any advanced degree, completing a doctoral dissertation is a significant undertaking that requires an enormous amount of effort and time to complete. Psychology doctorate online candidates may be eligible to transfer credits, which would also affect the length of the program. While some programs allow students to transfer a maximum number of credits from the master’s degree, other programs do not. Finally, if a program is based on a cohort model, meaning students complete the program as a group, this essentially removes the option of completing the program at an individual, and possibly quicker, pace.

What Curriculum Can You Expect in an Online Ph.D. in Psychology Program?

Although the curriculum varies for online doctoral degrees in psychology, the basic methodologies, concepts, and theories they cover are usually the same. Here are a few sample courses students can expect, each designed to prepare learners for careers in psychology or one of its related disciplines.

• Stress and Coping : Intended for online doctoral degree students who are looking to become health psychologists, a course in stress and coping addresses the topical issues of coping strategies, stressors, and stress in general and how these behaviors can impact one’s physiology and health.
• Individuals/Groups in Organization : Students explore how an organization’s failures and success relate to its culture as well as the behaviors of its management teams and workforce. Students learn how to analyze, interpret, and observe individual cognitions and behaviors and how to apply emerging, new theories in the field of industrial-organizational psychology.
• Personality and Behavior : This course looks at behavior through the lens of personality. Students will determine how personality affects the decisions people make, and how our character impacts our interactions with others. This is an important course for those considering a career as a school psychologist or in industrial-organizational psychology.
• Cognitive Neuroscience : Particularly important for those pursuing the health psychology career path, cognitive neuroscience focuses on mental processes and neural activity. From emotion to perception to social cognition, students explore change and behavior as well as how to help people gain control over, and thus improve, their health.
• Human Motivation : Explore what’s behind the initiative, ambition, and drive of individuals and learn how motivation can come from within a person as well as external sources. Through this course, students develop an understanding of both current and established theories on human motivation and discover how this knowledge can help individuals, organizations, and groups achieve success.

What Concentrations Are Available in a Doctoral Degree in Psychology?

An online doctoral degree in psychology will either award graduates with a general degree or a degree designed for a specialization such as counseling or industrial-organizational psychology. Health psychology, school psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology are just a few examples of popular specializations or concentrations that Ph.D. and Psy.D. graduates pursue. Although the details may vary depending on the program and school, these subsets represent a sample of what students can expect.

What Professional Organizations Are Available for Graduates With a Ph.D. in Psychology?

Professional organizations exist to advocate for a particular field or industry and to further the interests of their members. Joining such an organization can be helpful for job hunting, particularly for recent graduates and students, networking, and the continued development of skills as members participate in annual conferences, seminars, workshops, and more. An online doctorate in psychology candidate can expect to find mentors, financial opportunities, and resources by joining one of the following professional organizations:

• Society of Neuroscience
• Association for Psychological Science
• National Association of School Psychologists
• American Psychiatric Association
• American Psychological Association

This concludes our ranking of the top 35 Most Affordable Online Ph.D. in Psychology Degrees.

Other Rankings of Interest: 10 Most Affordable Ph.D in Organizational Psychology Online 15 Best Affordable Counseling Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 35 Top Value Psychology Degree Online (Bachelor’s) 25 Best Affordable Master’s in Psychology Online Degrees 20 Best Affordable Colleges for Psychology Degree Online 25 Most Affordable Public Colleges with Online Doctoral Degrees The 50 Most Affordable Colleges with the Best Return 25 Most Affordable Christian Colleges (non-Catholic) with Online Doctoral Degrees 25 Most Affordable Catholic Colleges with Online Doctoral Degrees

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Best Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs

Ranked in 2020, part of Best Health Schools

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental illness

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental illness and psychological disorders. Graduates may find work in private practice, schools and health care facilities. These are the top clinical psychology programs at the Ph.D. and/or Psy.D. level. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

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• 50 Most Affordable Clinical Psychology Graduate Programs

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By BPD Staff

When it comes to affordable graduate degrees in clinical psychology, American students have no shortage of options available to them. In this article, Best Psychology Degrees has done the leg work for you to find the 50 most affordable Clinical Psychology degrees available in the U.S.

Clinical psychology harnesses the power of empirical data and scientific research to improve treatment outcomes for patients with psychological issues and disorders. Clinical psychologists are expected to both consume scientific research and contribute to it.

Schools around the country offer bachelor’s and master’s-level psychology degrees online with concentrations in diverse areas like Forensic Psychology, Psychopharmacology, Behavioral Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology and a lot more.

To compile our list of the most affordable clinical psychology degrees, we used the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator tool. We started by identifying every school in the U.S. that offers graduate degrees in clinical psychology. We then examined the tuition rates for each one of those 210 schools and narrowed our list down to the 50 most affordable clinical psychology degrees in the entire country. These tuition rates are sourced directly from the schools themselves. It is always best to visit each school’s website for the most precise and current tuition rates for the degree program you’re interested in.

Located in each major region of the United States, these affordable psychology degrees are ranked from high to low in order of their per-credit graduate tuition rate.

50. Biola University

Psy.d. in clinical psychology – la mirada, california.

The Rosemead School of Psychology, a school within Biola University, offers both Psy.D. and Ph.D. degrees in clinical psychology. The program trains students in the practitioner model, training students to apply the latest in psychological research to treat patients in a clinical setting. Both programs are expected to take between five and six years to complete; both programs also award a Master of Arts degree after successful completion of the program’s second year. As Biola is a Christian school, a special area of emphasis is the integration of theological understanding with psychological research.

Cost per credit tuition: $1,281

49. Barry University

Master of science in clinical psychology – miami shores, florida.

Students who want to pursue careers as mental health practitioners or obtain advanced degrees can start their journey with Barry University’s Master of Science in clinical psychology program. The program involves extensive time spent at mental health centers in Florida. Students will learn the essentials of diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. The school offers all of its classes in the evening to suit the needs of working students. Depending on their needs, students may select either a 36-credit program or a 60-credit program.

Cost per credit tuition: $990

48. Marywood University

Psy.d. in clinical psychology – scranton, pennsylvania.

Students of Marywood University’s Psy.D. program will learn to become scholar-practitioners. Graduates are expected to apply the findings of the latest research to their clinical practices, but the program is focused on training practicing psychologists rather than psychological researchers. The school also awards a Master of Arts in clinical psychology, but this degree is only available to students who are pursuing their doctorate. Class sizes are small to provide each student with personalized attention. The program admits a total of ten students each year, eight at the post-bachelor level and two at the post-master’s level.

Cost per credit tuition: $953

47. Medaille College

Master of arts in clinical mental health counseling – buffalo, new york, doctor of psychology in clinical psychology.

The Counseling and Clinical Psychology Department at Medaille College offers degree programs in clinical psychology at both the master’s and doctoral levels. The 60-credit MA program is offered either during weekends on campus or entirely online. The 99-credit PsyD program is offered on campus and takes approximately five years to complete full-time. In addition to the two featured programs, students can also earn an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy, with all courses taught by the same world-class faculty, 88% of which hold doctoral degrees.

Cost per credit tuition: $850 MA, $1,170 PsyD

46. Union Institute

Master of arts in clinical mental health counseling – cincinnati, ohio.

Union Institute & University is proud of its 60-credit MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, which offers the kind of flexibility and convenience today’s working graduate students need, offering a hybrid format with part-time and full-time options, plus multiple start-dates each year. Graduates go on to either pursue a doctorate for full-authority phycologist licensure, or transition directly into the workforce as certified counselors. Residencies take place bi-annually, giving you a chance to integrate experiential learning with theory for a fully homogenous learning experience. The effectiveness of this approach is evident– most student cohorts have a 100% on-time completion rate and go on to pass their credentialing exams.

Cost per credit tuition: MA $810

45. Vanguard University of Southern California

Master of science in clinical psychology – costa mesa, california.

The Master of Science in Clinical Psychology program at Vanguard University of Southern California takes a faith-based approach to their degree program, helping prepare students to pursue a career in a religious setting. The program assigns students to participate in therapy sessions in order to better understand the role of clinical psychology in a professional setting. The degree also meets the academic criteria set forth by the state of California for licensure as a marriage and family therapist. Classes are offered in the late afternoon and early evening hours to allow working students more flexibility.

Tuition: $775

44. Brenau University

M.s. in clinical counseling psychology – gainesville, georgia.

At Brenau University, students can become licensed mental health counselors in Georgia upon completion of the school’s master’s program. This degree follows the scientist-practitioner model, equipping students with the skills necessary to complete original research and apply research to successful treatment plans. Students can attend classes either full-time or part-time, and students are exposed to a wide variety of classroom learning opportunities and real-world experiences to provide a robust education.

Tuition: $713

43. Montclair State University

Master of arts in clinical psychology – montclair, new jersey, phd in clinical psychology.

Montclair State University offers a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program with two concentration options: Child/Adolescent Clinical Psychology and Forensic Psychology. The Forensic Psychology concentration is designed for individuals already working in the field, such as social workers or counselors. Through this program, students can gain skills to use in criminal cases, divorce proceedings and child abuse situations. The Child/Adolescent Clinical Psychology concentration focuses on helping professionals understand how children develop mentally. Both programs are tailored for working professionals, offering flexibility for busy schedules.

Tuition: Master’s $701, Doctor’s $640

42. Eastern Kentucky University

Psy.d. in clinical psychology – richmond, kentucky.

The Master of Science in clinical psychology degree at Eastern Kentucky University aims to assist students with future clinical practice opportunities or advanced educational goals. The program puts special emphasis on ideas that can be learned outside of the classroom through clinical experiments conducted under close supervision from faculty members. The program requires two years to complete and focuses on statistics, psychotherapy and research studies. Students can also expect to participate in research programs and therapy services. After completing the program, graduates may apply for licensure in the state of Kentucky.

Cost per credit tuition: $675

41. Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus

Doctor of psychology in clinical psychology – indiana, pennsylvania.

The graduate psychology program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania focuses on training and educating compassionate and highly-effective psychology practitioners. The diverse areas of emphasis offered here include Child Clinical Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, Forensic Psychology, and Behavioral Medicine. Graduate students are also encouraged to develop proficiency with interpersonal skills, community outreach and psychological evaluations. The comprehensive curriculum here typically covers four years of full-time study, followed by a year-long internship in a practicing facility.

Cost per credit tuition: $568

40. CUNY Queens College

Ph.d. program in clinical psychology – flushing, new york.

The Queen’s College branch of City University New York trains students to be first-rate scientist-practitioners. The program believes that research and clinical treatment are equally important and provides students with a thorough grounding in both areas. Personal and professional development are emphasized throughout the program. Students of the Queen’s College program will develop expertise in neural dysfunction, especially as it relates to psychopathology and behavioral problems. The program maintains a strong relationship with a network of practicing facilities to provide students opportunities for externships and internships.

Cost per credit tuition: $560

39. University of Iowa

Phd in psychology – iowa city, iowa.

Students of the University of Iowa’s psychology grad school will be trained primarily as researchers and teachers in the field of psychology. Although the school does grant a Master of Arts in psychology as well, the focus of the program is on the doctorate degree; students who are only seeking a master’s degree are encouraged to look elsewhere. The university offers a choice of six different specializations for students to pursue: behavioral and cognitive neuroscience; clinical psychology; cognition and perception; developmental science; health psychology; and social psychology. Students without any prior graduate work can complete their degree within four years, but students who already possess a master’s degree in psychology may be able to finish sooner.

38. Auburn University

Clinical psychology, ph.d. – auburn, alabama.

Originally established in the aftermath of a landmark Supreme Court case, Auburn University’s clinical psychology degree is committed to educating clinical psychologists with a strong community service focus. The program follows the scientist-practitioner model, and students are expected to develop equal competency in performing original research and applying the results of that research to clinical treatments. In addition, students are expected to develop the skills necessary to teach psychology, especially to undergraduate college students.

Cost per credit tuition: $546

37. University of Alaska Anchorage

Master of science in clinical psychology – anchorage, alaska, ph.d. program in clinical-community psychology.

The clinical psychology program at the University of Alaska Anchorage offers a Master of Science degree to educate students to serve the mental health needs of a diverse population. The program has a number of notable goals for each student, including developing a wide understanding of modern psychology practices and building clinical skills. Students are also encouraged to develop other necessary skills in the program, including writing and computer literacy. By the end of the program, students should have established the knowledge and skills necessary to begin working as a practitioner in the field of psychology. Students who desire further education can also pursue the school’s clinical-community doctoral program.

Cost per credit tuition: $513

36. University of Northern Iowa

Master of arts in psychology – cedar falls, iowa.

The University of Northern Iowa offers a Master of Arts in psychology degree that stresses the importance of research methodology in the field of mental health. Each student is required to complete an extensive thesis to illustrate the research skills that they have gained through the program. Students can choose between two concentrations: clinical science and social psychology. Research opportunities offered to students in the program include working with children and adults in clinical settings. Faculty members routinely invite students to participate as junior partners on their research studies.

Cost per credit tuition: $509

35. Ohio University-Main Campus

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – athens, ohio.

Ohio University’s clinical psychology doctoral program has been accredited since 1970, and the university has achieved a solid national reputation since that time. The program follows the scientist-practitioner model, giving students a solid understanding of both research practices and clinical treatment of mental health issues. The university also grants a master’s degree, but only as a steppingstone towards the doctorate. In addition to the general program, which gives students a solid base in a wide variety of psychological fields, students of the program can choose to specialize in one of three tracks: Health Psychology, Clinical Child Psychology, and Clinical Neuropsychology.

Cost per credit tuition: $505

34. Cleveland State University

Master of arts in clinical psychology – cleveland, ohio.

At Cleveland State University, students can earn a terminal master’s degree in clinical psychology. The program provides students with a broad understanding of the principles of psychological research and treatment, and two different tracks of study are available. Students who want to continue their education and eventually earn a doctorate can select the pre-doctoral track. Those who don’t plan to continue their education can instead study on the practitioner track, which allows these students to take a variety of electives to concentrate on a particular field of psychological study. Students who choose the practitioner track will be qualified to work as psychologist’s assistants in a wide variety of settings.

Cost per credit tuition: $494

33. University of North Dakota

Ph.d. program in clinical psychology – grand forks, north dakota.

The Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the University of North Dakota is designed to educate students to become working scientist-practitioners. The school maintains very small class sizes so that students can spend more time with their instructors. The program emphasizes the importance of the scientific method, assessment skills and putting solutions into practice to help communities. Students can customize their learning experience to better prepare themselves for a position in research or as practitioner. The school’s program is certified by the American Psychological Association.

Cost per credit tuition: $461

32. Jackson State University

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – jackson, mississippi.

As an Apple Distinguished School, Jackson State University prides itself on its integration of technology with its degree programs. The university’s clinical psychology doctoral program focuses on educating technologically savvy psychologists with a multicultural focus. This highly competitive program, which admits only six to eight students each fall semester, equips students with the tools necessary to provide excellent mental health care and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of psychological knowledge. Studies related to minority communities and disadvantaged populations are a particular area of emphasis for the program.

Cost per credit tuition: $406

31. University of Maine

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – orono, maine.

Psychology students with an interest in the psychological needs of rural populations can earn a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Maine. In the course of earning the doctorate, students will also earn a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, though the university doesn’t offer the master’s separately. Students here can specialize in clinical child psychology or clinical neuropsychology, adding a high-demand specialty to the outstanding education in clinical psychology available here. Because of the school’s rural setting, the internships and other hands-on experiences available to students of the program will give them a unique understanding of the psychological needs of rural populations.

Cost per credit tuition: $450

30. University of Houston

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – houston, texas.

Since 1959, the University of Houston has offered a Ph.D. in clinical psychology degree to students that is certified by the American Psychological Association. The program has adopted the Boulder scientist-practitioner model of psychology instruction. Through this model, students can expect to learn about the research methods and clinical skills necessary for treating patients. The program offers three tracks for special study, including adult psychology, child psychology and neuropsychology. Most students finish the program in under six years, which includes a year-long internship at a practicing facility.

Cost per credit tuition: $445

29. Minnesota State University, Mankato

Master of arts in clinical psychology – mankato, minnesota.

The clinical psychology master’s program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, is designed for students who plan to eventually earn a full doctorate degree. The full-time, two-year program focuses on applied research and follows the scientist-practitioner model. Graduate students in the program are expected and encouraged to assume significant responsibilities in the research projects of the school’s psychology department, giving students firsthand experience at conducting psychological research. The program partners with a number of prestigious institutions for practicum work, including the Mayo Clinic.

Cost per credit tuition: $427

28. Marshall University

Psy.d. program – huntington, west virginia, ma in psychology, clinical psychology emphasis.

Through the practitioner-scholar model, students in Marshall University’s Psy.D. program will receive the education necessary to work professionally in the field of psychology as a clinician or researcher. The program focuses on understanding and examining the challenges specifically facing the people of West Virginia, including the underserved populations that live in the rural areas of the state. Students are encouraged to take up research projects with faculty members that specifically relate to this issue.

Cost per credit tuition: Master’s $427, Psy.D. $536

27. Ball State University

Master of arts in clinical psychology – muncie, indiana.

At Ball State University, the Master of Arts in clinical psychology program prepares students for advanced educational opportunities in the field. The program utilizes classroom education and extensive opportunities to conduct research with the school’s faculty. The master’s program is a two-year process that requires completion of a research internship lasting at least 240 hours. Although it is not required, students are encouraged to work on a thesis or an independent project. The school also offers certificates in a number of fields, including autism and cultural diversity.

Cost per credit tuition: $424

26. Alabama A&M University

Master of science in clinical psychology – normal, alabama.

The psychology department at Alabama A&M University offers a number of psychology-related graduate degrees, including an MS degree in clinical psychology. Students of the two-year program can choose to either prepare a master’s thesis or pass a national exam to demonstrate their mastery. Before graduating, students must also complete a 600-hour internship at a practicing mental health facility. Upon completion of the degree, students will be eligible to pursue licensure for a number of counseling positions; students can also use their degree to apply for a doctorate-level program.

Cost per credit tuition: $422

25. University of Kansas

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – lawrence, kansas.

The clinical psychology department at the University of Kansas is consistently rated as one of the best in the nation; and that’s a reputation that goes back generations. Representatives of the school were present at the original Boulder conference, and the department has been continuously accredited by the APA since 1949. The program has a long history of taking an innovative approach to education, following the scientist-practitioner model that was first presented at the Boulder conference decades ago. To this day, graduates of the program are expected to go on to make meaningful contributions to the science of psychology. In addition to the general clinical psychology program, students can also choose to minor in quantitative psychology.

Cost per credit tuition: $419

24. Union College

Master of arts in clinical psychology – barbourville, kentucky.

Through the Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program at Union College, students can gain clinical experience by addressing the mental health needs of those in the Kentucky area. With supervision, students are allowed to conduct psychological tests and practice counseling while working on their degree. Many of the program’s graduates have moved on to work in prisons and hospitals. The class schedule is flexible, including some online options; Union College is one of the only colleges to offer online programs for psychology. Class sizes are kept small so that students can continually receive personalized feedback on their work.

Cost per credit tuition: $400

23. University of the Cumberlands

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – williamsburg, kentucky.

The Ph.D. in clinical psychology program at the University of the Cumberlands takes a hybrid approach to education and is one of the only schools to offer a partially online Ph.D. In the first year of study, students may choose between online or evening classes. After the first year, students have the option to experience a semester abroad in Oxford, England. The second year of the program is held on campus, and the third year once again has online availability. In the fourth and final year, students will work on an internship before they can graduate.

22. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Ma in clinical psychology – edinburgh, texas.

At the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, students of the clinical psychology program can choose a thesis or non-thesis track depending on their individual preference and career goals. Students who choose to work on a thesis will have the chance to conduct thorough research on a related topic of their choosing, giving them a solid advantage when they are ready to apply for employment in the field. All students are expected to meet several important milestones during their time in the program. In addition to being well-prepared to work in clinical practice, students here will also leave the program with the skills necessary to conduct valuable research in the field.

Cost per credit tuition: Master’s $389, PhD’s $388

21. University of Central Florida

Master of arts in clinical psychology – orlando, florida.

The University of Central Florida’s Master of Arts in clinical psychology prepares students for licensure in the state of Florida to begin a career as a licensed mental health counselor. Students will need to complete the course and a two-year internship before they can apply for a license. The coursework requires 61 credit hours and allows students to choose between a non-thesis track or a thesis track. Students can rely on frequent feedback sessions from faculty members to ensure that each student is meeting the program’s expectations.

Cost per credit tuition: $370

20. Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – indianapolis, indiana.

At Indiana University, students can earn a well-rounded Ph.D. degree in clinical psychology with a strong research focus. The program utilizes the scientist-practitioner model, but the focus of the program is on research and the advancement of general psychological knowledge. Within the program, students can choose between two areas of focus: clinical health psychology and severe mental illness/psychiatric rehabilitation. The university maintains a relationship with a robust network of psychological treatment centers in the Indianapolis area, giving students many opportunities for hands-on learning and internships.

Cost per credit tuition: $357

19. San Diego State University

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – san diego, california.

San Diego State University offers a joint doctoral program in partnership with the University of California – San Diego; students of the five-year program can also earn a Master of Science in clinical psychology while earning their doctorate, but that degree is only available to students who are on the doctorate track. The program follows the scientist-practitioner model, but the emphasis of the program is on training researchers. The first two years of the program provide students with a solid foundation in the general field of clinical psychology; in the final three years, students will focus on one of three major areas of study: behavioral medicine, experimental psychopathology or neuropsychology.

Cost per credit tuition: $347

18. Brigham Young University – Provo

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – provo, utah.

The clinical psychology program at Brigham Young University follows the scientist-practitioner model, and the program is intentionally broad to expose students to the full range of psychological schools of thought. The program is structured to be completed in five years of study, with the final year consisting of an on-site internship in a practicing facility away from the university; the program partners with prestigious institutions such as the Yale School of Medicine. The university is owned and operated by the Mormon church, and students are expected to live up to the school’s honor code.

Cost per credit tuition: $345

17. Idaho State University

Doctor of philosophy in clinical psychology – pocatello, idaho.

Using the scientific-practitioner model as the foundation, Idaho State University prepares students for work as a clinical psychologist through the Doctor of Philosophy in clinical psychology program. The ability to understand research is a large part of this program; clinical psychologists must understand how to formulate a hypothesis and test it in order to better serve their patients. To achieve this goal, students enrolled in the program will have ample options to pursue research opportunities through their coursework and an internship with a mental health organization. Students will also need to work on independent research to strengthen their critical thinking skills.

Cost per credit tuition: $337

16. The University of Texas at Tyler

Master of science in clinical psychology – tyler, texas.

Students with a strong desire to help people understand and overcome the psychological conditions affecting the quality of their lives will find the University of Texas at Tyler promotes a compassionate and rigorously science-based approach to psychology. Many of the graduates from the school’s Master of Science in Clinical Psychology degree go on to work at hospitals, private practices and schools. Students have the choice to select a specialization in general psychology or neuropsychology. The program also prepares students to take the licensing exam required to become a school psychology specialist in the state of Texas.

Cost per credit tuition: Master’s $325, Doctor’s $366

The University of Texas at Tyler

15. Sam Houston State University

Ma in clinical psychology – huntsville, texas.

After graduating from the clinical psychology doctoral program at Sam Houston State University, students can pursue a career in a research or a clinical setting. The program believes strongly in the benefits of mentors, allowing students to pair up with multiple faculty members during the course of the program. The school’s program also believes strongly in preparing students to work with diverse populations. Training is provided to help with this goal, and faculty members are prepared to handle any conflicts. Thanks to the school’s close proximity to the city of Houston, students have plentiful opportunities to gain clinical experience at major medical facilities.

Cost per credit tuition: $320

For more information on Sam Houston State University

14. Texas Tech University

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – lubbock, texas.

Relying on the scientist-practitioner model, this program at Texas Tech University prepares students for a research or clinical psychology career. Both career paths are equally weighted in this program, making it a good fit for those interested in both career paths. On the clinical side, students will learn how to diagnose psychological conditions using the latest discoveries in mental health. The research skills students will gain include the ability and expertise required to conduct studies. Mentorship with faculty members is a large part of this program; students will be assigned to work with one faculty member on a research project.

Cost per credit tuition: $318

For more information on Texas Tech University

13. Eastern Illinois University

Master of arts in clinical psychology – charleston, illinois.

At Eastern Illinois University, students can earn a two-year master’s degree in clinical psychology. This program is intended as a terminal degree and will qualify graduates to work in certain clinical settings; students can also pursue a doctorate degree at another institution after graduation. While participating in the program, students will have many opportunities to conduct hands-on research with the department’s faculty across a wide variety of different psychological research topics. The program utilizes the scientist-practitioner model to give graduates a broad understanding of clinical psychology and enable them to work in a variety of professional settings.

Cost per credit tuition: $309

12. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Master of science in clinical psychology – natchitoches, louisiana.

The Master of Science in clinical psychology program at Northwestern State University of Louisiana consists of 42 hours of coursework that covers four main subjects: clinical assessment, application, research and theory. Students may opt to work on a thesis or another independent project. Classes are held on campus, and students can expect a hands-on approach from faculty members. Students will need to complete a 300-hour practicum in order to graduate. Upon completion of the program, students can progress to a clinical career in psychology or pursue a doctoral degree.

Cost per credit tuition: $307

11. The University of Texas at El Paso

Master of arts in clinical psychology – el paso, texas.

Students interested in pursuing a doctoral program in clinical psychology can begin with the master’s program at the University of Texas at El Paso. This program is also useful for students who wish to practice psychology in a mental health setting. The program requires 45 credit hours, which includes coursework and a thesis. Students must also work on an internship to gain hands-on experience. For those students wishing to work right away in Texas, additional requirements must be completed before earning a counsellor’s license.

Cost per credit tuition: $291

For more information on University of Texas at El Paso

10. Missouri State University-Springfield

Master of science in clinical psychology – springfield, missouri.

The Master of Science in clinical psychology program at Missouri State University-Springfield utilizes a cohort model to help students progress effectively through the degree. Classes are taught by licensed faculty members with years of experience, giving students an important glimpse into the field of advanced psychology. Throughout the duration of the program, students will have a chance to work on research projects. Students who keep a full schedule can expect to finish the course within two years.

Cost per credit tuition: $289

For more information on Missouri State University-Springfield

9. University of North Texas

Doctoral program in clinical psychology – denton, texas.

The doctoral program in clinical psychology at the University of North Texas uses the scientist-practitioner model, and gives individualized attention to each and every student to create a very personal and highly effective learning experience. Faculty mentorship plays a major role in achieving the program’s goals – students are expected to begin working with a faculty member on a research project immediately upon beginning the rigorous program. Students can take advantage of the diverse specializations among faculty members to glean real knowledge from experienced professionals with backgrounds in areas like clinical neuropsychology and forensic psychology. In the fifth and final year of the program, students will work full-time in a doctoral internship.

Cost per credit tuition: $278

8. Emporia State University

Master of science in clinical psychology – emporia, kansas.

The Master of Science in clinical psychology program at Emporia State University can be completed within two years for students who take classes during the summer. Most of the classes are held on campus and feature small class sizes. The program relies on the scientist-practitioner model, giving students a strong foundation that can lead to advanced educational opportunities or a career as a clinical psychologist. Students are also allowed to take on independent research projects to prepare themselves for their future careers.

Cost per credit tuition: $266

7. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Doctoral program in clinical psychology – dallas, texas.

The doctoral program in clinical psychology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center prepares students for future employment as a researcher, scholar or clinician in psychology. The school has set several essential goals for each student to meet, including gaining an understanding of the basics of psychology and learning how to evaluate scientific research. Successful completion of the program also requires passing several key exams, an internship and an approved dissertation. Most students will finish the program in under five years.

Cost per credit tuition: $255

For more information on University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

6. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Ph.d. program in health psychology, clinical psychology concentration – charlotte, north carolina.

The Ph.D. program in health psychology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a clinical psychology concentration for students interested in a career in research or practice. Students will learn essential skills and use their understanding of common research methodologies to expand the frontiers of psychological research. Students will also learn the basics needed to practice in the field and learn about ethical practices in psychology. The program requires students to work under the supervision of a licensed psychology facility for about a year to gain clinical experience.

Cost per credit tuition: $246

For more information on University of North Carolina at Charlotte

5. East Carolina University

Ph.d in health psychology, clinical health concentration – greenville, north carolina.

The Ph.D. in clinical health psychology program at East Carolina University teaches students to consider all the factors that can affect mental health, including the individual’s genetics, environmental conditions and social groups. By the end of the program, students will have developed the experience needed to correctly diagnose conditions and can look for employment in a number of settings, including hospitals and community organizations. Students will also learn about the latest in treatment options, including stress reduction, biofeedback and relaxation methods.

Cost per credit tuition: $245

For more information on East Carolina University

4. Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology

Phd in clinical psychology – virginia beach, virginia; norfolk, virginia.

Students at the Virginia Consortium Program can pursue a degree in psychology at one of three campuses: Old Dominion University, Eastern Virginia Medical School and Norfolk State University. The program follows the scientist-practitioner model and assumes that incoming students will possess a solid background in the science of psychology. Incoming cohorts are capped at six students per year, allowing students to benefit from an unusually high faculty-to-student ratio. Students are expected to complete a major research project in the second year of the program and an intensive on-site internship for the final year of the five-year program.

Cost per credit tuition: $244

3. Prairie View A&M University

Ph.d. in clinical adolescent psychology – prairie view, texas.

Prairie View A&M University’s doctoral psychology degree specializes in adolescents, carefully examining how the human brain develops and the effects of environmental and genetic factors on mental health. Through this program, students will learn the skills needed in careers as practitioners, researchers or teachers. Students are encouraged to complete a practica or other optional coursework to help prepare themselves for their future employment. Classes are kept small, requiring potential students to work hard to earn a slot in the program.

Cost per credit tuition: $241

For more information on Prairie View A&M University

2. Appalachian State University

Psy.d. in clinical psychology – boone, north carolina.

Appalachian State University offers a Master of Arts in clinical psychology degree to prepare students for doctoral studies or to equip them with essential skills for work as a clinical practitioner. The degree consists of four semesters of study covering a variety of topics, including the diagnosis of psychological conditions and psychological research. Students must complete a thesis or do additional coursework in lieu of a thesis. Students can also expect to participate in a supervised internship opportunity. After completing all of the coursework, students can apply for licensure in North Carolina.

Cost per credit tuition: $208

For more information on Appalachian State University

1. CUNY City College of New York

Ph.d. in clinical psychology – new york city, new york.

As part of the City University system, students at this program will take courses at several different campuses throughout New York City. The program follows the scholar-practitioner model, training educated practitioners who can benefit from the latest research in psychology without focusing on conducting original research themselves. This branch of City University’s psychology school operates the Psychology Center, a practicing psychological treatment facility; students can gain hands-on experience in the Psychology Center from the very beginning of their studies.

Cost per credit tuition: $201

Studying psychology can be rewarding, but unlocking the workings of the human mind is a task that will require dedication and time. As the importance of mental health has become more apparent, the need for well-trained clinical psychologists has grown. By completing an affordable graduate degree in clinical psychology, students can place themselves in a capture these psychology jobs while supporting the mental health needs of their communities.

Sources: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=all&p=42.2801&pn=1&l=94 http://www.allpsychologycareers.com/salary/clinical-psychology-salary.html http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Master_of_Arts_– MA,_Clinical_Psychology/Salary

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10 Most Affordable Doctorate Degrees in Psychology Online

This January 2019 ranking was last updated in June 2020. The 2020 updates may affect the ranking order, but the list has not been re-ordered.

The field of psychology is an intriguing one, as it studies the human mind and behavior. In this rapidly evolving field, professionals who wish to pursue an online doctorate in psychology will find ever increasing opportunities to do so. As the discussion on mental health continues, the growth of the industry keeps rising, and for good reason. Clinical and academia psychologists are making a difference in the area of mental health, especially as the awareness of disorders like bipolar, PTSD, anxiety, and more broadens. Therefore, the need for more professionals in counseling, research, and beyond is in high demand.

Featured Programs

• Touro University Worldwide
• Grand Canyon University
• Capella University
• Southern California Seminary
• Fielding Graduate University
• Northcentral University
• Ashford University
• Sofia University
• Saybrook University
• Keiser University

Getting your online doctorate in psychology doesn’t have to be as daunting as it may seem. With the addition of so many fully online programs, getting an online doctorate degree in psychology is easier than ever. However, even though these programs are both affordable and flexible, it is important to evaluate your life and see if you can handle a commitment of this magnitude before beginning.

The good news is that the concentrations available for this degree path are as vast as employment opportunities. Therefore, while the cost of the program could be a significant factor in your decision, keep in mind what your career goals are. It is likely that there is a very specific specialization available for whatever it is you desire to do, including extremely unique and targeted ones like parent-infant mental health or media and branding psychology.

Ranking Methodology:

In this ranking, we explore the most affordable online doctorate degrees in psychology for 2019. Because of the current limited availability of online doctorate programs in psychology, these programs are listed in order of tuition costs only, with #11 being the highest tuition on the list, and #1 being the cheapest tuition for an online PhD in psychology.

#10 Keiser University

Online phd in psychology or online phd in industrial and organizational psychology.

Graduate Enrollment: 1,618

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Keiser University is a student-centered and hands-on curriculum university located in Florida, complete with 19 campuses and an eCampus division. Keiser University’s eCampus offers two online PhD options in Psychology: PhD in Psychology and a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. While the general PhD is focused on innovative research in the field and prepares students with careers in teaching, consulting, or research, the PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology is designed for graduates to work directly with businesses and organizations. Students learn how to address issues in the workplace and use their knowledge to facilitate change. Keiser offers a unique class schedule where students take one class for four weeks, enabling students to focus on only one course at a time. KU is also a military-friendly university that offers scholarships for military service members (and their dependents), active and retired. Graduate Tuition: $27,162

#9 Saybrook University

Online phd in psychology.

Graduate Enrollment: 687

Saybrook University is a higher degree institution that focuses on social sciences, health sciences, and integrative medicines. SU’s hybrid PhD in psychology provides students with four specializations: Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health, Creativity Studies, Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology, and Psychophysiology. While most courses will be taken online, there are a few in-person meetings required. With this in mind, Saybrook is located in Oakland, CA, making this option best for students near this area or for those who can easily travel. Students will participate in two on-campus 5-day Residential Conferences per school year, or students can substitute a 5-day professional conference. Core psychology courses include Foundations and Critique of Contemporary Psychology, Methods of Research and Disciplined Inquiry I, History and Systems of Psychology, and Foundations of Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology. All coursework will culminate in a research practicum and dissertation. Graduate Tuition: $23,589

#8 Sofia University

Graduate Enrollment: 1,210

The flexible and affordable online PhD in Psychology at Sofia University offers 5 concentrations, making this option one of the most varied ones on this rankings list. The specializations include Transpersonal Education and Research, Applied Transpersonal Psychology, Whole Systems Approach to Health and Wellbeing, Consciousness and Creativity Studies, and Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience. While all coursework can be completed online, this program requires 3 in-person seminars to be completed before the dissertation phase of the program. The 75-unit program consists of 21 units of core courses, 36 elective units, and 18 units of dissertation courses. Sample courses include Multiple Epistemologies of Death and the Afterlife and their Personal and Social Implications and Psychology of Anomalous Experiences. Unlike many doctoral programs, Sofia University lets students research their own areas of interest, rather than following a professor in their research pursuits. Sofia University is the world’s first transpersonal university, focusing on experiential learning, fostering an environment of personal growth and collaboration. SU is accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Graduate Tuition: $14,415

#7 Ashford University

Online doctor of psychology (psyd).

Graduate Enrollment: 6,009

Ashford University offers an affordable online Doctor of Psychology that provides 7 unique specializations, including Criminology and Justice Studies, Educational Leadership, Health and Wellness Psychology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Mediation and Conflict Resolution, Sport and Performance Psychology. The program is designed for graduates to excel in careers where they can improve their patients’ mental health and be a part of the culture of change in this field. This 62-credit online PsyD degree includes 10 core courses, 7 concentration courses, and a Capstone seminar. AU’s program is one of the few available that do not require a dissertation, but an applied doctoral project instead. However, students can opt to write a dissertation if they choose. Classes are presented in a 6-9 week format. Sample course offerings include Biological Bases of Behavior, Group Process & Group Leadership in Organizations, and Adult Psychopathology & Treatment. Ashford University is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Graduate Tuition: $12,060

#6 Northcentral University

Graduate Enrollment: 10,465

Because Northcentral University is strictly an online graduate university, they have the opportunity to hone in on specific groups of studies and provide a quality, innovative education that prepares passionate professionals to excel in their respective careers. Accredited by the Senior College and University Commission, Northcentral University offers an online PhD degree in psychology. Within this degree, there are 8 specialization options including Addictions, General Psychology, Health Psychology, Mental Health Policy and Practice, Gender Diversity Studies, Gerontology, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and Trauma and Disaster Relief. The program utilizes an applied experiential learning method through case studies and real-life situations. Of all the programs on this list, Northcentral University’s is perhaps the most flexible, as it offers start dates every Monday and a one-to-one learning model that provides support for all online students. Note that there are no GRE or GMAT test requirements for admission.

Graduate Tuition: $16,983

#5 Fielding Graduate University

Online phd in clinical psychology or online phd in media psychology.

Graduate Enrollment: 1,071

Students entering the School of Psychology at Fielding Graduate University can choose between an online PhD in Clinical Psychology or a PhD in Media Psychology, an emerging psychology field. Concentrations for the clinical psychology path include Forensic Psychology, Health Psychology, Neuropsychology, Paren-Infant Mental Health, and Social Justice and Diversity. The PhD in Media Psychology offers 3 specializations: Brand Psychology and Audience Engagement, Positive Psychology and Media, and The Social Impact of Mobile Media and Immersive Technology. The School of Psychology also offers two post-doctoral certificates including Neuropsychology Certificate and Re-specialization in Clinical Psychology Certificate. While most classes can be taken online, cluster meetings in students’ geographic area each month are required. It is important to note that graduates from the states of Oklahoma, Georgia, and Kansas will not be eligible for licensure. Both psychology programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Graduate Tuition: $17,296

#4 Southern California Seminary

Graduate Enrollment: 147

The cheap online PsyD degree offering at Southern California Seminary is unique because it is delivered from a biblical perspective and is the best fit for graduates who desire to work in the local church, Christian private practice, or institutions. While almost all of the classes can be taken online, there is one class and one lab that must be taken on-campus. Note that online students will also have in-person evaluations. Sample core curriculum courses include Law and Professional Ethics in Counseling, Theological Foundations of Counseling, Crisis Response and Intervention Techniques, and Approaches to the Treatment of Children. Students will take 12 units of research and dissertation and 12 units of a doctoral internship, including three internships. An array of financial aid options are available, including active duty military personnel, part-time ministry workers, and spouses of students at SCS. Southern California Seminary is accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). Graduate Tuition: $15,588

#3 Capella University

Online phd in psychology or online pysd.

Graduate Enrollment: 27,356

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Capella University offers a unique 10-week, synchronous quarter system called GuidedPath, where students can take anywhere from 1-3 classes per quarter, with a $5,000 quarter tuition maximum. Unlike many online programs, CU provides a purposeful structure to fit the needs of students who thrive in that atmosphere. Among its many online degree programs is Capella’s generous options for a PhD in psychology, including addiction psychology, developmental psychology, educational psychology, general psychology, or industrial/organizational psychology. Each of these degrees will enable graduates to work in the fields of research, administration, or academia. Coursework includes Ethics and Multicultural Issues in Psychology, Tests and Measurements, Advanced Inferential Statistics, Qualitative Analysis, and Quantitative Research Methods in Psychology. If you are seeking to work in clinical practice, a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in School Psychology or Clinical Psychology might be a better degree option for you. Coursework in this curriculum includes Advanced Biological Psychology, Cognitive/Affective Psychology, Evidence-Based Practice in Psychology, and Strategies of Clinical Supervision and Consultation.

Graduate Tuition: $14,767

#2 Grand Canyon University

Online phd in general psychology with emphasis on cognition and instruction.

Graduate Enrollment: 36,114

Located in Arizona, Grand Canyon University is a private, Christian university whose goal is to provide a quality and affordable education with biblical roots. Grand Canyon University offers a cheap online PhD in Psychology with an emphasis on cognition and instruction through its College of Doctoral Studies. The program is designed to prepare students for teaching at the university level, or other educational positions in the government or school systems. In this 60-credit program, students will take core courses like Psychoanalysis and Psychodynamic Theory, Humanistic, Transpersonal, & Existential Psychology, Ethical Issues in Psychology, and Human Learning and Cognition. Students will also take classes in research, residency, and dissertation. Utilizing the 8-week class model, the coursework at GCU is geared toward the modern, non-traditional online student in efforts to offer a flexible and convenient delivery method. Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Graduate Tuition: $10,175

#1 Touro University Worldwide

Online psyd in human and organizational psychology.

Graduate Enrollment: 1,163

Touro University Worldwide’s affordable online Psychology degree results in a PsyD in Human and Organizational Psychology and focuses on these 3 fields: organizational psychology, leadership psychology, and industrial psychology. Unique features of the program include no GRE scores required, no residency during the program, and a fully online curriculum. Specific core courses include The Scholar-Practitioner Model, Applied Media Psychology, and Evidence-Based Practices. Students will then spend time developing a research topic before refining and writing their dissertation. A concentration in organizational leadership is available and is designed for students desiring to work in the business arena. This specialization will give students the knowledge to understand the psychology behind organizations and their human resource management systems. Touro University Worldwide is a Jewish sponsored non-profit educational institution that is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). TU is considered a military friendly university. Graduate Tuition: $9,000

What is a Low-Cost Online Doctorate Degree in Psychology?

A doctorate in psychology provides intense and advanced study in human behavior and mental health and is the highest degree available in the field of psychology. Practitioners of this field evaluate individual, social, organizational and global problems all while helping people better cope with their life circumstances. When deciding to pursue a doctorate in psychology, there are a few points to consider. The main thing to determine is whether you want a PhD in psychology, which lends itself towards a research-oriented career, or if you want a PsyD, which allows you to treat and diagnose mental disorders. If you have an entrepreneurial dream and plan to open your own practice, a PsyD might be the best option for you. Once you’ve determined what kind of degree you want, you can then choose a specialization that fits your career goals.

1. How long does it take to get a low-cost online doctorate degree in psychology?

Getting a doctoral degree usually takes much longer than a master’s degree, ranging anywhere from 3.5-7 years. Keep in mind that shorter programs might require a heavier course load, while longer programs will spread the coursework out a little more. The benefit of dedicating that kind of time to a discipline is that you become an expert in your field, holding the highest degree possible. Most programs have mandatory time limits for finishing the degree, with some as generous as 7-8 years. If you plan to take your time getting your doctorate degree, make sure to check your given program to confirm that it fits within your timeframe. It is important to note that in order to get a PhD in psychology, you must also hold both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in a related mental health field.

2. Are there any doctorate psychology programs that are accelerated?

While most doctoral programs take about 4 years to complete, some schools may offer an accelerated option. Walden University provides two options to speed up the degree process. The program allows students to waive up to 5 courses in the doctoral program if their Master’s degree is in a related mental health field. The school also offers a Fast Track option, which allows students the ability to begin their dissertation early.

3. Are online affordable doctoral programs in psychology good?

While some students may be concerned that an online degree may not hold the same weight as a traditional degree, as culture changes, employers are thinking less about the nature of the degree and more about the total package of the applicant. In fact, most online doctoral psychology programs are geared toward working professionals, so employers 100% understand that students are juggling work and school at the same time, which could most likely say a lot about your ability to manage schedules and work under pressure. And because online education requires a high amount of self-discipline, completing the degree can be a sign of a hard worker that would be an asset to any staff.

4. Are there any affordable psychology PhD programs that do not require a GRE/GMAT for admission?

Yes, there are some online Psychology programs that do not require a standardized test like the GRE or GMAT for admission. Programs on this rankings list that do not require testing include Touro University Worldwide and Northcentral University. If that is an important detail to you, consider one of these mentioned schools, or double check the application process of the program you are interested in to make sure. It may be important to remember that most Master’s degree programs require the GRE, so if you’ve already taken the test for admission to that program, you might be eligible to use that score towards admission to a doctoral program. Most doctoral admission requirements state that students should have taken the GRE or GMAT within in last 5 years or so. With that in mind, you might be able to use your score from admissions to your Master’s degree program when applying for your doctoral program.

5. Are there any doctorate degrees in psychology that do not require a dissertation?

This seems to be a complicated and controversial topic, but the short answer is yes, there are some doctoral programs that do not require a dissertation. While most of the programs on this list require a dissertation in the last few semesters of the curriculum, you could potentially find a related program that does not require one. The thought process here would be that these programs are designed specifically for professionals in the given field, and therefore, the dissertation is replaced with research or capstone projects instead of a dissertation. However, you will want to consider what your goals are. Is it important to your career aspirations to have a well thought out and targeted dissertation? Does that give you merit or specific credit in your desired field? Do you feel like your degree will be taken seriously if you don’t have a completed dissertation? There isn’t a right or wrong answer here; in most situations, people understand that the nature of education is changing. The decision is up to you!

6. Are all online doctorate programs in psychology accredited?

No, not all online doctoral programs are accredited. However, every program on this online Psychology doctorate rankings list is accredited. While it may not be a requirement to attend an accredited school for your future job plans, it is definitely something to consider when finding the right program. Accredited institutions have strict standards to adhere to and the accreditation mark certainly vouches for the validity of the program. Programs on this list are accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), American Psychological Association (APA), Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS).

7. Are there affordable online psychology programs with no prerequisites?

No, all online and traditional doctoral programs require a bachelor’s degree and most require a master’s degree. Walden University offers a bachelor’s-level entry point. In most cases, schools require the degrees to be in a related mental health field. Not all programs require your background to be in a related field, but schools like Walden University will give you credit for up to 5 classes in your doctoral program if you have a background in mental health. Double check the details of your program to make sure you current degrees will be the right fit for admission.

8. How much do cheap online doctorate psychology degrees cost?

On this list, the schools we surveyed range anywhere from $9,000 to $27,000 in tuition per year. However, there are schools out there with tuition that go all the way up to $40,000. If money is a major factor in your decision, try a school like Capella University that has a $5,000 quarter tuition maximum or a school like Walden University that gives you credit for up to 5 classes, which can end up saving you time and money.

9. How can I pay for my online doctorate degree in psychology?

Making room in your budget for school costs can be daunting. But luckily, there are many scholarships and financial aid options available. Most schools have information on their website to help guide you in that process. For military service members, many schools like Touro University Worldwide and Southern California Seminary have tuition discounts or special scholarships available, so make sure to look for those in your search. Another option is to talk to the institution where you currently work. Some have tuition reimbursement programs, where they will pay for your education, and you can pay them back through working contracts. Other schools, like Capella University, have tuition caps per semester or quarter, a strategy that could help cut down the cost of education if you are able to take multiple classes at a time.

10. Does the location of the school matter for my online degree?

If you are taking a 100% online doctorate psychology program, the location of the school will not matter, as all coursework will be submitted online and any field experiences can be completed in your regional location. However, some degree programs offer blended options or have mandatory orientation or seminar requirements, so make sure to check the details of your program before fully committing. Other students might prefer to live geographically close to their chosen school for support in advising or practicum placements. That decision will be completely up to you and what you prefer. Note that many schools do have online advising and student support, as well as video/Skype capabilities with faculty and mentors. But if face-to-face support is important to you, choosing a school near to you might be a wise choice.

Concentration Types

Before choosing a degree program, it is important to decide what you want to do with your career, as your degree type could greatly influence your direction. In this ranking, we mention 3 main degree types, as well as a vast array of concentrations.

Degrees: Doctor of Psychology (PsyD): This degree would be best for those students seeking to work in clinical practice. It is important to note that the degree does not guarantee licensure, as you should check with your respective state licensure programs for that information. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): This degree is geared more towards the students who desire to become an expert in the field as a professor or researcher. Doctor of Education (EdD): This degree might be best for professionals seeking to train, teach, or consult.

Concentrations: What makes psychology such an exciting field to study is that you can tailor your degree to best fit your passions and career goals, even choosing some extremely specific and unique concentrations like sport and performance psychology or brand psychology.

Other specializations mentioned in this article include: General Psychology, Human and Organizational Psychology, Educational Psychology, Research in Psychology, Health Psychology, Teaching in Psychology, Social Psychology, Counselor Education and Supervision, Addiction Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Industrial Psychology, Media Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Neuropsychology, Parent-Infant Mental Health, Social Justice and Diversity, Mental Health Policy and Practice, Gender Diversity Studies, Gerontology, Trauma and Disaster Relief, Criminology and Justice Studies, Health and Wellness Psychology, Mediation and Conflict Resolution, Sport and Performance Psychology, Transpersonal Education and Research, Applied Transpersonal Psychology, Whole Systems, Consciousness, Spirituality and Integrative Health, Creativity Studies, Existential, Psychophysiology Approach to Health and Wellbeing, and Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience

While some of these concentrations are extremely specific, common choices include:

Clinical Psychology School Psychology Developmental Psychology Industrial and Organizational Psychology Social Psychology Forensic Psychology

FAQ Career Questions

1. What jobs can I get with an online PhD psychology degree?

Generally, graduates who hold a PhD or other doctoral degree in psychology can work in business organizations, government positions, school systems, higher education, research, or clinical practice. A doctorate degree in psychology can take you down many paths, and because there are so many options available, you will be able to match a career with your passions in life. For example, if you are interested in crime scenes or criminology, you could become a forensic psychologist. If you love marketing and would be invigorated by brand psychology, you could work in the business world. If you have a heart for people with addictions, you could study addiction psychology. It might be wise to determine what your career goals are before enrolling in a program, so you can make to choose the specific degree and school that will best fit your post-graduate goals.

2. How much can I earn with an affordable online doctorate psychology degree?

According to payscale.com, the average salary for a PsyD degree is $81,000 and the average for a PhD is $87,000.

Salaries for common psychology careers: School Psychologist: $61,743 Clinical Psychologist: $79,914 Higher Education Professor: $88,102 Forensic Psychologist: $69,514

3. Are there licensing requirements for becoming a psychologist? In most cases, yes. In order to become a practicing psychologist, you must get licensed through your state’s board. However, some states don’t require psychologists who work in research, colleges and universities, or corporations to be licensed. It’s very important to check with your state’s requirements so you will know what your next steps are.

4. Can I work while I get my online psychology doctoral degree?

In almost all cases, yes. Most of the online programs on our list are designed with working professionals in mind and present material in an asynchronous format, which allows students to complete the curriculum within their own time frame. In some cases, where on-campus visits are required as a part of the hybrid program, classes are offered on Saturdays or weeknights to accommodate working schedules. To be safe, make sure to check the details of your program before committing fully. You’ll want to understand the details of the program before spending any money, making sure the class format and structure works for your lifestyle.

5. Are there professional associations for psychology professionals?

Yes! In fact, there are many professional associations for psychology professionals available and because the profession has so many specializations, you can also find associations very specific to your area of discipline, like associations for school psychology or counseling psychology. A few general associations include the American Psychological Association (APA), American Board of Professional Psychology, and the Association for Psychological Science (APS).

This article was updated June 2020.

Related Rankings:

• Psychology and Counseling Degree Programs
• Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Psychology
• Most Affordable Online Psychology Degree Programs
• Most Affordable Online Doctorates in Marriage and Family Therapy
• Most Affordable Online Doctorates in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• 30 Colleges That Have Innovative Mental Wellness Programs
• 10 Highest Paying Psychology Jobs
• What is Counseling Psychology?
• National Center for Education Statistics
• School Websites

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Clinical Psychology

Mission statement.

Our mission is to advance knowledge that promotes psychological well-being and reduces the burden of mental illness and problems in living and to develop leading clinical scientists whose skills and knowledge will have a substantial impact on the field of psychology and the lives of those in need. Our faculty and graduate students promote critical thinking, innovation, and discovery, and strive to be leaders in their field, engaging in and influencing research, practice, policy, and education. Our pursuit of these goals is guided by the values of collaboration, mutual respect, and fairness, our commitment to diversity, and the highest ethical standards.

Information about the Clinical Psychology Graduate Major

UCLA’s Clinical Psychology program is one of the largest, most selective, and most highly regarded in the country and aims to produce future faculty, researchers, and leaders in clinical science, who influence research, policy development, and practice. Clinical science is a field of psychology that strives to generate and disseminate the best possible knowledge, whether basic or applied, to reduce suffering and to advance public health and wellness. Rather than viewing research and intervention as separable, clinical science construes these activities as part of a single, broad domain of expertise and action. Students in the program are immersed in an empirical, research-based approach to clinical training. This, in turn, informs their research endeavors with a strong understanding of associated psychological phenomena. The UCLA Clinical Science Training Programs employs rigorous methods and theories from multiple perspectives, in the context of human diversity. Our goal is to develop the next generation of clinical scientists who will advance and share knowledge related to the origins, development, assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health problems.

Admissions decisions are based on applicants’ research interests and experiences, formal coursework in psychology and associated fields, academic performance, letters of recommendation, dedication to and suitability for a career as a clinical scientist, program fit, and contributions to an intellectually rich, diverse class. Once admitted, students engage with faculty in research activities addressing critical issues that impact psychological well-being and the burden of mental illness, using a wide range of approaches and at varying levels of analysis. Their integrated training is facilitated by on-campus resources including the departmental Psychology Clinic, the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the David Geffen School of Medicine.

Our program philosophy is embodied in, and our goals are achieved through, a series of training activities that prepare students for increasingly complex, demanding, and independent roles as clinical scientists. These training activities expose students to the reciprocal relationship between scientific research and provision of clinical services, and to various systems and methods of intervention, assessment, and other clinical services with demographically and clinically diverse populations. The curriculum is designed to produce scientifically-minded scholars who are well-trained in research and practice, who use data to develop and refine the knowledge base in their field, and who bring a reasoned empirical perspective to positions of leadership in research and service delivery.

The program’s individualized supervision of each student in integrated research and practice roles provides considerable flexibility. Within the parameters set by faculty interests and practicum resources, there are specializations in child psychopathology and treatment, cognitive-behavior therapy, clinical assessment, adult psychopathology and treatment, family processes, assessment and intervention with distressed couples, community psychology, stress and coping, cognitive and affective neuroscience, minority mental health, and health psychology and behavioral medicine. The faculty and other research resources of the Department make possible an intensive concentration in particular areas of clinical psychology, while at the same time ensuring breadth of training.

Clinical psychology at UCLA is a six-year program including a full-time one-year internship, at least four years of which must be completed in residence at UCLA. The curriculum in clinical psychology is based on a twelve-month academic year. The program includes a mixture of coursework, clinical practicum training, teaching, and continuous involvement in research. Many of the twenty clinical area faculty, along with numerous clinical psychologists from other campus departments, community clinics, and hospitals settings, contribute to clinical supervision.  Clinical training experiences typically include four and a half years of part-time practicum placements in the Psychology Clinic and local agencies. The required one-year full-time internship is undertaken after the student has passed the clinical qualifying examinations and the dissertation preliminary orals. The student receives the Ph.D. degree when both the dissertation and an approved internship are completed.

Accreditation

PCSAS – Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System

The Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology at UCLA was accredited in 2012 by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). PCSAS was created to promote science-centered education and training in clinical psychology, to increase the quality and quantity of clinical scientists contributing to the advancement of public health, and to enhance the scientific knowledge base for mental and behavioral health care. The UCLA program is deeply committed to these goals and proud to be a member of the PCSAS Founder’s Circle and one of the group of programs accredited by PCSAS.  (Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System, 1800 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 402, Washington, DC 20036-1218. Telephone: 301-455-8046). Website:  https://www.pcsas.org

APA CoA – American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation

The Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology at UCLA has been accredited by the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation since 1949. (Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, American Psychological Association, 750 First Street NE. Washington, DC 20002-4242. Telephone:  202-336-5979 .) Website:  http://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/

Future Accreditation Plans:  

Against the backdrop of distressing evidence that mental health problems are increasingly prevalent and burdensome, the field of psychological clinical science must think innovatively to address the unmet mental health needs of vulnerable populations. UCLA’s clinical psychology program remains committed to training clinical psychological scientists who will become leaders in research, dissemination, and implementation of knowledge, policy development, and evidence-based clinical practice. This commitment is firmly rooted in our overall mission of promoting equity and inclusion, adhering to ethical standards, and developing collaborations in all aspects of clinical psychology.

Increasingly, we believe that significant aspects of the academic and clinical-service requirements of accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) obstruct our training mission. Too often, APA requirements limit our ability to flexibly adapt our program to evolving scientific evidence, student needs, and global trends in mental health. Like many other top clinical science doctoral programs, we see our longstanding accreditation by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) as better aligned with our core values, including advancement of scientifically-based training.

Accordingly, we are unlikely to seek renewal of our program’s accreditation by APA, which is set to expire in 2028. The ultimate decision about re-accreditation will be made with the best interests and well-being of current and future students in our program in mind. To that end, we will continue to monitor important criteria that will determine the career prospects of students completing a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from programs accredited only by PCSAS. For example, we are working to understand the potential implications for securing excellent predoctoral internships and eligibility for professional licensure across jurisdictions in North America. Although the UCLA clinical psychology program has no direct influence over these external organizations, we are excited to continue to work to shape this evolving training landscape with the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (APCS) and leaders from other clinical science programs.

Our ongoing monitoring of trends in clinical psychology training is encouraging for PCSAS-accredited programs. However, evolving circumstances could result in our program changing its opinion with respect to seeking APA re-accreditation in the future. In the spirit of transparency and empowering potential applicants to make informed choices for their own professional development, we are pleased to share our thinking on these important issues.

Notice to Students re: Professional Licensure and Certification

University of California programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the University of California and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The University of California has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a University of California program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

NOTE:  Although the UCLA Clinical Psychology Program is not designed to ensure license eligibility, the majority of our graduates do go on to become professionally licensed.  For more information, please see  https://www.ucop.edu/institutional-research-academic-planning/content-analysis/academic-planning/licensure-and-certification-disclosures.html .

Clinical Program Policy on Diversity-Related Training 

In light of our guiding values of collaboration, respect, and fairness, this statement is to inform prospective and current trainees, faculty, and supervisors, as well as the public, that our trainees are required to (a) attain an understanding of cultural and individual diversity as related to both the science and practice of psychology and (b) provide competent and ethical services to diverse individuals.  Our primary consideration is always the welfare of the client.  Should such a conflict arise in which the trainee’s beliefs, values, worldview, or culture limits their ability to meet this requirement, as determined by either the student or the supervisor, it should be reported to the Clinic and Placements Committee, either directly or through a supervisor or clinical area faculty member.  The Committee will take a developmental view, such that if the competency to deliver services cannot be sufficiently developed in time to protect and serve a potentially impacted client, the committee will (a) consider a reassignment of the client so as to protect the client’s immediate interests, and (b) request from the student a plan to reach the above-stated competencies, to be developed and implemented in consultation with both the trainee’s supervisor and the Clinic Director.  There should be no reasonable expectation of a trainee being exempted from having clients with any particular background or characteristics assigned to them for the duration of their training.

Clinical Program Grievance Policies & Procedures

Unfortunately, conflicts between students and faculty or with other students will occur, and the following policies and procedures are provided in an effort to achieve the best solution. The first step in addressing these conflicts is for the student to consult with their academic advisor. If this option is not feasible (e.g. the conflict is with the advisor) or the conflict is not resolved to their satisfaction, then the issue should be brought to the attention of the Director of Clinical Training. If in the unlikely event that an effective solution is not achieved at this level, then the student has the option of consulting with the Department’s Vice Chair for Graduate Studies. Students also have the option of seeking assistance from the campus Office of Ombuds Services and the Office of the Dean of Students. It is expected that all such conflicts are to be addressed first within the program, then within the Department, before seeking a resolution outside of the department.

More Clinical Psychology Information

• For a list of Required Courses please see the  Psychology Handbook
• Psychology Clinic
• Student Admissions Outcomes and Other Data

PhD in Psychology Further Your Understanding of Psychology

Degree Options

View Degree Options

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

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

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

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

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

What Will You Study in Our PhD in Psychology Degree?

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

Through this program, you will:

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

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

Featured Courses

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

Degree Information

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

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Degree?

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

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

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

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

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

Potential Career Opportunities for PhD in Psychology Graduates

• Corporate psychologist
• Program or department head
• Project manager

Degree Options for Our PhD in Psychology Program

Focus your studies in psychology with a specialization.

Behavioral Health Leadership

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

View the Degree Completion Plan .

Developmental Psychology

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

General Psychology

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

Industrial/Organizational Psychology

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

Social Psychology

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

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

Not sure what to choose?

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

Tuition & Aid

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

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

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Our PhD in Psychology

Admission requirements.

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

Preliminary Acceptance

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

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

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

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

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

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Military Tuition Discount

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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10 Best Online PsyD Programs – Accredited & Affordable [2024 Ultimate Guide]

Your guide to accredited Online PsyD Programs in 2024. Compare PsyD vs. PhD & get the answers you need: APA accreditation, Scholarships, and no GRE.

Interested in taking your passion for psychology or counseling to the next level with an accredited online PsyD program?

• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is an applied doctorate with a clinical focus
• PsyD emphasizes therapy and counseling

If you’re considering a career in clinical psychology as a counselor, social worker, psychiatrist, or forensic psychologist, then a PsyD program may be a great option for you.

Related Guide: 40 Psychology Graduate Programs without GRE Requirements

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

10 Best PsyD Programs Online

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

1. Alaska Pacific University

Alaska Pacific University offers students a Doctor of Psychology program , in large part to respond to a need in the state of Alaska for more higher-level training programs.

The curriculum culminates in a dissertation on a topic of personal interest and passion. This online psychology degree program design meets the educational requirements for licensure as a psychologist in Alaska.

At a glance

• Path to Licensure? Yes
• Focus or Specialization? None
• Admission Requirements? Master’s

Benefits & Expected Outcomes

• A program designed to help working professionals pursue doctorate despite restraints of traditional programs.
• Hands-on experience through the required internship lets students apply newly gained knowledge and theory.
• Deep understanding of evidence-based practices and how to use them in clinical settings.

Alaska Pacific University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

2. Alliant International University

Alliant International University provides students the opportunity to pursue a Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology. Course design mixes online and in-person components for an interactive, flexible learning environment. This program also ends with a final project in an area of professional and personal passion.

• Path to Licensure? No
• Focus or Specialization? Education Psychology
• Admission Requirements? PPS credential in school psychology

Expected Outcomes

• Advanced skills in education psychology, in areas such as law, ethics and equity, psychopharmacology, multicultural counseling, and consultation.
• Ability to conduct research in applied settings.
• Career paths include: Educational Psychologist, Social Worker , Policy-Maker

Alliant International University is regionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

3. Capella University

Capella University offers students a Doctor of Psychology with a Clinical Psychology Specialization. The program centers on creating a combination of online coursework and in-person experiences to optimize the learning environment. Residencies and internships work to enhance the skills students learn in other coursework. A dissertation concludes the curriculum, but at Capella, dissertation mentors offer support and guidance during this process.

The Doctor of Psychology program at Capella offers numerous opportunities to begin preparing students for licensure. Residencies, practicums, and internships all offer places for students to apply their skills in the real world. In addition, Capella offers a support team to guide current students and alumni through the clinical psychology licensing process.

• Focus or Specialization? Yes
• Admission Requirements? Bachelor’s and Master’s
• Ability to provide effective psychological interventions to clients after careful assessment of needs.
• Select, administer, and interpret proper psychological tests.
• Career paths include: Clinical Psychology, Clinical Manager, Clinical Therapist

Capella University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Meridian University

Meridian University offers students a Doctor of Psychology focused on Clinical Psychology. At some point during the program, students are required to have experience in personal therapy.

Core, clinical psychology and research-based courses all lead to a solid foundation for professional practice. This program also meets the educational requirements for licensure in California. It also meets the requirements for the California Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), following additional fieldwork.

• Focus or Specialization? Clinical Psychology
• Admission Requirements? Bachelor’s or Master’s
• Develop professional leadership abilities and engage fully with the profession.
• Use appropriate psychological assessments based on knowledge of clients’ personal and cultural differences.

Meridian University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

5. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers a PsyD in School Psychology. The program is designed to provide students with comprehensive training to prepare them for licensure and careers in diverse psychological settings. This hybrid program combines online learning with classes delivered in a hybrid-weekend model, offering flexibility for working professionals or those balancing other commitments.

The curriculum seeks to teach how to support the educational and emotional needs of students in school settings. It emphasizes diagnosing and treating mental illnesses among children and adolescents and promoting positive mental health and academic success within schools.

• Focus or Specialization? School Psychology
• Admission Requirements? Bachelor’s degree, minimum GPA, specific coursework in psychology
• Mastery of diagnostic techniques for assessing student’s psychological needs
• Preparedness for licensure exams
• Skills to support mental well-being and promote academic success within school settings
• Understanding of effective intervention strategies and consultation practices

Nova Southeastern University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

6. Southern California Seminary

Southern California Seminary ‘s online PsyD Non-Licensure program combines psychology with Christian faith to prepare students for non-clinical roles.

The curriculum covers biblical integration, counseling techniques, and research methodology education and culminates in a dissertation. It is designed to teach how to apply psychological principles in ministry, educational, and organizational settings.

• Focus or Specialization? No
• Admission Requirements? Master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution.
• Integrates Christian principles with psychology for support in mental health and spiritual well-being
• Prepares for roles in education, ministry, or leadership with a focus on ethical practices and research

Southern California Seminary is nationally accredited by the Transitional Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.

7. Touro University

Touro University offers students a Doctor Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology. This program is specifically designed to help professionals learn the skills and obtain the tools necessary for their individual fields. The programs culminate in a dissertation designed alongside experienced faculty.

• Focus or Specialization? Human and Organizational Psychology
• Admission Requirements? Master’s; Cumulative GPA of 3.4
• Implement evidence-based solutions in the chosen profession using new skills and tools.
• Technology and learning opportunities to further professional skills.

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

8. University of Arizona Global Campus

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers students a Doctor Psychology (PsyD) through online study.

You can choose from one of the following specializations: Criminology and Justice Studies, Educational Leadership, Health and Wellness Psychology, Industrial Organizational Psychology, Mediation and Conflict Resolution, or Sport and Performance Psychology.

• Focus or Specialization? Six offered
• Admission Requirements? Master’s; Cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Offers 6 to 9 week online courses
• Wide-range of specializations available

The University of Arizona is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

9. Walden University

Walden University offers learners a Doctor of Psychology program in Behavioral Health Leadership. The curriculum focuses on the skills and tools necessary to improve the quality of behavioral health and mental health services. Courses integrate case studies as interactive learning tools to help students apply the skills they learn to real-world issues. Two separate residencies also shape this program: an in-person consulting skills retreat and a virtual doctoral project residency, which aids the completion of a capstone course.

• Focus or Specialization? Choose from specializations in Teaching, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Health Psychology, Public Health, Healthcare Management, or International Practice
• Admission Requirements? Master’s; Cumulative GPA 3.0; 3+ years professional and/or academic experience (preferred)
• Gain skills in areas necessary for licensed and practicing behavioral health professionals, including leadership, management, financial management and procurement, instruction and training, and program evaluation.
• Gain skills necessary to seek leadership or management positions in public or private organizations.
• Career paths include: Behavioral Health Leader, Administrator, Project Manager.

Walden is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. William James College

William James College offers a Doctor of Psychology in Leadership Psychology. The program is primarily online. Three 4 day intensive on-campus residencies in Newton, MA are required each year. These provide an opportunity to work and engage with classmates and leaders in the field.

The curriculum explores how people function as leaders and followers to gain a better understanding of what makes a great leader. The program also requires 900 hours of supervised field training, which is comprised of 600 hours of practicum experience and a 300 hour internship. Help is given to find a placement that meets career interests and goals.

• Focus or Specialization? 4 program-specific and 5 college-wide concentrations offered
• Admission Requirements? Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from accredited institutions
• Gain skills needed to take on executive leadership roles
• Learn how to be a leader and improve team performance
• Potential career paths include Leadership Psychologist, Chief Human Resource Officer, Organizational Psychologist, Chief Administrative Officer, Strategic HR Partner, and Organizational Development Strategist.

William James College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology

Choosing between a PsyD and an online PhD in Psychology can be a tough choice. Ultimately, you have to decide which option offers you the most flexibility.

Let’s take a closer look at the difference between a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology .

What is the difference between a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology?

It’s easy to confuse a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology.

The Psy.D. is practice-oriented.

If your end goal is to be a clinical psychologist working directly with patients, this may be the best path for you. Your coursework can help prepare you to apply advanced research in a therapeutic setting.

Ph.D. in Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy is research-oriented.

If your plan is to enrich the field of psychology through scholarly research and publication, or by becoming an educator, pursuing a Ph.D. may be the best match for you. That being said, Ph.D. holders can also be clinical psychologists. It’s not either/or… it can be both.

Let’s compare the two programs head-to-head:

It is important to note, though, that PsyD graduates can cross over and pursue careers in research or teaching.

Online PhD in Psychology Programs:

• Online PhD in Psychology (multiple concentrations available)
• Online PhD in Developmental Psychology (multiple concentrations available)
• Online PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology (multiple concentrations available)

There is some academic crossover, but career goals tend to differ.

Top Psychology Careers & Salaries

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median salary for psychologists was $80,370.

• Psychiatrist
• Clinical Neuropsychologist
• Behavioral Health Director
• Clinical Director
• Neuropsychologist
• Child Psychologist
• Executive Director of a Nonprofit
• Professor, Higher Education
• Clinical Psychology
• Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• School Psychologist

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this career field is projected to grow 3% over the next 10 years, as fast as the average rate of all occupations.

The outlook is best for those who have a doctorate in an applied specialty or concentration.

Getting a Doctorate in Psychology

Courses in a doctorate in psychology program focus on assessment and intervention, both through theory and practice.

Doctor of Psychology programs are usually heavily focused on real-world practice. Expect to have a mixture of coursework, clinical practicum, research, and internships.

Some examples of PsyD curriculum you may take include:

• Child and Adolescent Development
• Adult Psychopathology
• Professional Ethics
• Cognitive Assessment
• Systems of Psychology
• Lifespan Development
• Advanced Biological Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Social Psychology
• School Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Multicultural Perspectives in Human Behavior
• Engineering Psychology
• Advanced Research Methods and Statistics

If your college allows you to choose an area of concentration, you will also take unique classes relevant to that subject.

Most PsyD programs help prepare you for the licensure process. Licensure requirements vary by state, so be sure to do your homework if a clinical practice is your goal.

Currently, there are no PsyD online programs that are APA-accredited. However, reputable universities align their curriculum with APA standards to help prepare you for clinical psychologist licensure in a number of states.

What are the admission requirements?

When applying to an online doctoral Psychology program, you will likely need the following:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Master’s degree
• Minimum GPA scores (varies by the college)
• GRE scores (not always required)
• College Transcripts
• Letters of recommendations
• Other assessments as determined by the college (interviews, essay, etc.)

The scores and assessments will vary by education program, so be sure to check with the college you are interested in to see their specific admission requirements.

How long does it take to finish a PsyD?

The length of the program will depend on many factors, including your educational background, the exact program you have chosen, how many courses you are able to take at a time, and your career aspirations.

Generally speaking, though, it usually takes about 4 to 5 years to complete a PsyD program, especially a PsyD Clinical Psychology. When it comes to clinical counseling, there are additional criteria that must be met.

Are online programs accredited?

Yes. Psychology online programs from reputable schools have the same accreditation requirements as their campus-based counterparts.

In the U.S., there are six regional accrediting associations, each named after the region in which it operates.

They are as follows:

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCA)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WSAC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

It’s very important that you earn your degree from an accredited school for two reasons. First, earning your doctorate will likely require a lot of time and money. You want to make sure you are investing in a quality program. Second, in order to become licensed to practice, you will need to have completed an accredited program.

What is a PsyD?

Students often ask, What is a PsyD Degree? A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology program, meaning you will earn a doctorate in the field of psychology. This professional degree covers both Clinical Psychology and Counseling Psychology .

While the PsyD program does include a number of research-based courses, the primary focus is on clinical practice and hands-on experience. You will likely become a consumer of research – applying advanced knowledge to help care for patients – rather than a creator of research.

In contrast, a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, like the one offered by Saybrook University, is more research-focused.

Are There Any APA Accredited PsyD Programs Online?

Accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) is considered the ultimate “stamp of approval” in the field – the “gold standard.” In fact, in some states, students must have a degree from an APA-accredited program in order to become licensed psychologists.

But the criteria by which the APA evaluates and accredits online (and hybrid) programs are still being fine-tuned. According to the APA website , there is no online-only doctor of psychology programs that are APA-accredited at this time.

Certainly, though, there are APA programs that include online courses and can work around a busy schedule. Be sure to look for the program that is the best fit for your needs. And, of course, if your goal is to become licensed, be sure to check with the licensing body in the state in which you plan to practice to see what the specific requirements are.

How much does a Doctor of Psychology cost?

A doctorate can be pricey, but there are affordable options. Especially when you factor in scholarships, grants, and payment plan options.

Tuition costs may vary by tens of thousands of dollars from one school to the next. So, it’s a good idea to compare costs. We’ve also found that there are discounts to be had. For example, a number of universities offer more affordable tuition rates for those who have served in the military.

According to data collected in a recent American Psychological Association (APA) study , the median cost to earn your doctorate in Clinical Psychology from a public institution was just under $11,000 for in-state residents and about $24,000 for out-of-state residents. At private institutions, tuition was just under $34,000.

Does a PsyD require a dissertation?

Sometimes. While a dissertation is a standard requirement at the end of most doctoral programs, there are some programs that can be completed without dissertations .

Are there any schools offering the PsyD with no GRE requirement?

Many schools do require PsyD applicants to submit Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, but not all.

You can find this information, along with other admission requirements, on each program’s website.

Are there any fully online Doctor of Psychology programs?

There are only a few fully online programs. Due to the nature of the field, it’s imperative that you also get hands-on, in-person experience. This will require clinical hours.

This experience may be referred to as a residency, practicum or internship, and will take place at a hospital, clinic, school, community agency or organization in your local area.

Are there PsyD programs without a master’s requirement?

You will need to earn your master’s, like a master’s in psychology online , before beginning your PsyD program.

Even if a school were to admit you to the PsyD program without your master’s, it would not save you time. You would still need to earn those masters level credits before beginning the PsyD curriculum and you wouldn’t have the benefit of a master’s credential while working on your doctorate.

It may be worth noting that a growing number of universities offer on-campus and online dual masters and PsyD programs , which may allow you to work on both degrees at the same time.

Can I teach with a PsyD?

Yes, you can teach with a PsyD. The PsyD program is specifically designed for students who plan to go into clinical psychology, working directly with patients, but you will be qualified to pursue other career avenues, including teaching. In fact, the PsyD program at Walden offers an optional specialization in teaching.

Can I get a Doctor of Psychology in Forensics?

At the moment, no schools offer a PsyD in Forensics. But if you’re interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice or forensics, Walden offers a Doctorate in Forensic Psychology online.

Studying forensics can help you explore the bridge between the criminal justice system and psychology.

Doctorate in Psychology Program Details

Many PysD programs allow students to choose an area of concentration, which will become their area of expertise and help them transition into their specific career.

Some examples of PsyD concentrations and fields of specialization include:

• Behavioral Psychology
• Behavioral Health Leadership
• Child Psychology
• Industrial-Organizational Psychology
• Child, Adolescent and Family Psychology
• Behavioral Medicine
• Counseling Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Social psychology
• Couple or Family Therapy
• Mental Illness
• Social Work

Check with the school you are interested in to see which concentration areas they offer.

What financial aid is available for PsyD students?

There are quite a few resources when it comes to financial aid for your PsyD!

First, most graduate schools, including many PsyD and master’s programs, offer scholarships. They are awarded based on financial need, academic merit, community involvement, minority status and other factors. To find out what scholarships are available at the school(s) you are considering, check the website or contact the financial aid office.

Second, look for grants, scholarships and other awards offered by state psychological associations. To find an association in your state, visit this APA directory . You may need to join the association to apply, but the fees are generally minimal (or free!) and the organization may provide other learning or networking opportunities.

Finally, the APA is an excellent resource for financial aid. They provide a searchable directory of scholarships, fellowships and other aid for students of all levels, including PsyD students.

Taking the next step

If you are able to invest the time and money, a PsyD can open a lot of doors for you!

This program can be an excellent alternative to earning a doctor of philosophy that can help you to focus on hands-on training and move quickly into a career in clinical psychology.

Psychology (Ph.D.)

The Psychology program offers a Doctoral Degree in  Cognitive Psychology,  Developmental Psychology, and  Social Psychology.

Important: Transcripts and Letters of Recommendation are required of all applicants. 

Read the  application instructions ​ page for full details., see the test score requirements for this program., below are specific requirements also needed for this program:.

Résumé

A Statement of purpose is required: 

Please describe your intellectual interests and potential plans for research during graduate study. Also indicate your intended future occupation. Include any information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and qualifications for graduate study at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages.

A Personal History Statement is also required:

Required of all applicants. This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Note that the Personal History Statement should not duplicate the Statement of Purpose. Recommended length is a concise 1-3 pages.

UC Santa Cruz is interested in a diverse and inclusive graduate student population. In an essay, discuss how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Include any educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences, challenges, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how you might contribute to social or cultural diversity within your chosen field; and/or how you might serve educationally underrepresented segments of society with your degree.

See the application deadline

Contact the program

Read more about this program:   https://psychology.ucsc.edu/graduate/

• Department of Psychology >
• Graduate >
• Graduate Admissions >

Clinical PhD Program

For information regarding the online application and admissions process, please visit the UB Graduate School. 

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Admission Requirements and Process

The Department of Psychology at the University at Buffalo uses a holistic admissions process in our consideration of applications.  This means that we evaluate the entire application, rather than any single indicator or a few indicators. Thus, applicants are viewed as a whole person, the sum of their experiences, accomplishments, and aspirations. Consistent with this, we do not rely on or use “cut offs” for numerical indices of an academic record such as grade point average. A holistic approach also means that a candidate who may be less strong in some areas, can still have a highly competitive application by having greater strength in other areas. All elements of an application are taken into consideration, to maximize a good fit of the applicant with our training program and potential mentors, to reduce bias that can result from reliance on a limited number of components, and to reduce inequities in access to opportunities for graduate training. 

Over the years, we have learned that a holistic admissions process helps us identify applicants who are likely to succeed in our graduate programs, brings a diversity of experience and ideas into our academic community, and supports a fair review of all applicants. Our goal is to recruit the next generation of academic psychologists who are passionate about making new discoveries and generating new knowledge in their chosen discipline.  We expect students to bring hard work, professional ambition, resilience, grit, intellectual acumen, and enthusiasm to our graduate programs.

Although we value quantitative criteria like GPA, we take a broad view of academic excellence and recognize that indices of success in our graduate programs and professional achievement cannot be reduced to numbers alone. In short, we endeavor to balance quantitative and qualitative indices of success. Because we want to give students the greatest opportunity to thrive in our program, we place a strong emphasis on fit with our programs and potential faculty mentors. A highly qualified applicant may not be strongly considered if their interests and goals do not provide a good fit with the orientation of our training program or with faculty research interests. Accordingly, we consider the following components in our admissions decisions: personal statement, undergraduate transcript and GPA (and prior graduate record if applicable), letters of recommendation, and resume/research experience. Interviews are required for applicants to the Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical, and Social-Personality doctoral programs, and our MA programs in General Psychology; interviews are not required for applicants to the Cognitive Psychology doctoral program. After initial review of applications, the selected applicants to programs requiring an interview will be contacted by prospective advisors to set up an interview time.

Schomburg statements are optional for applicants to our doctoral programs interested in being considered for a Schomburg Fellowship. These statements are not used for admissions decisions.

Clinical PhD Program:

Components of the application and how they are used, personal statement (required).

Helps contextualize the more quantitative and objective credentials of an applicant.  The statement is used to evaluate the applicant’s goals and fit with the program and research interests of the faculty as well as how they would contribute to the diversity of thought and perspectives.

Prompt for Personal Statement (1000 words or less):

Describe the area of research you are interested in pursuing during your graduate studies and explain how our program would help you achieve your intellectual goals. The statement should include your academic background, intellectual interests and training or research experience that has prepared you for our program. The statement should also identify specific faculty members whose research interests align with your own interests.

Submitting Personal Statement:

Uploaded as part of the online application.

Transcript and GPA (required)

Provides evidence that the applicant is seeking challenging coursework, while excelling and showing academic growth. The University at Buffalo requires an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.  However, applications with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 can still be considered, particularly when other components of the application are strong (e.g., a high graduate GPA, etc.). 

Submitting transcripts:

Upload scanned copies of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts as part of your online application.  Include the English translation, if applicable. 

Letters of recommendation (3 required):

Provides a third-party endorsement of the applicant’s attributes, ability to succeed in the graduate program, and potential to contribute to the field.  The letter offers a perspective on the applicant’s prior achievements and potential to succeed, along with concrete examples of the subjective traits described in other elements of the application.

Submitting Letters:

Letters must be submitted electronically. Further instructions are included in the online application.

Resume and research experience (required):

Provides information on how the applicant has practically applied ideas and concepts learned in the classroom. It helps show that applicants possess the skills and dispositions needed to conduct extensive research and make substantive contributions to their chosen field.

Submitting resume

Interviews are a way for programs to get to know applicants as a person.  They provide a qualitative means of: (a) contextualizing quantitative and objective credentials, and (b) evaluating how well an applicant’s goals and training needs fit with the program and potential mentors. In addition, the Clinical PhD program also uses the interview to evaluate suitability for clinical work.

Schomburg Statement (optional Applications to our doctoral program):

What is a schomburg fellowship.

A Schomburg Fellowship offers support for students in doctoral programs who can demonstrate that they would contribute to the diversity of the student body, especially those who can demonstrate that they have overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education. In order to be eligible for the Schomburg Fellowship, you need to be either a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident and have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above. 

Here is a link to more information about Schomburg Fellowships.

https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/current-students/funding-your-degree/graduate-awards-fellowships/schomburg-fellowship.html

The Schomburg statement provides useful information in helping the faculty decide whether to nominate an applicant for the Schomburg Fellowship.

Schomburg Statement:

If you would like to be considered for a Schomburg Fellowship, please  upload a written statement with your online application  (maximum of 500 words) describing how you will contribute to the diversity of the student body in your graduate program, including by having overcome a disadvantage or other impediment to success in higher education.  Please note that such categorical circumstances may include academic, vocational, social, physical or economic impediments or disadvantaged status you have been able to overcome, as evidenced by your performance as an undergraduate, or other characteristics that constitute categorical underrepresentation in your particular graduate program such as gender or racial/ethnic status.

Submitting a Schomburg statement:

Counseling Psychology Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 294 results

Philadelphia, PA •

University of Pennsylvania •

Graduate School

• • Rating 3 out of 5   5 reviews

Master's Student: I loved my graduate program at Penn. Learning along side top notch professors from Wharton, Graduate School of Education and Design school, I had a diverse and interdisciplinary education that will help me in all of my future roles. ... Read 5 reviews

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University of Pennsylvania ,

Graduate School ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I loved my graduate program at Penn. Learning along side top notch professors from Wharton, Graduate School of Education and Design school, I had a diverse and interdisciplinary education that will... .

Read 5 reviews.

McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: Northwestern's Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability is a first of its kind professionally focused master's program in the nation. Interdisciplinary by design, MSES covers the technical, policy, and business/economics of the energy and sustainability sector pulling professors from the Kellogg School of Management as well as the McCormick School of Engineering. The industry professionals are leaders in their respective fields and are always willing to help the students. The cohort focused program enables deep connection among the students that will last a lifetime! ... Read 3 reviews

Northwestern University ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Northwestern's Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability is a first of its kind professionally focused master's program in the nation. Interdisciplinary by design, MSES covers the technical,... .

Read 3 reviews.

Social Sciences Division - University of Chicago

Chicago, IL •

University of Chicago •

• • Rating 3.75 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: The University of Chicago offers many clubs you can attend. Do to COIVD most of the clubs meet online and some in person one day out of the week. There's boxing, archery, fencing, and one of my personal favorites ju-jutsu, just to name a few. These sports are completive but they also have clubs that are just for fun and any body of any skill level can join. There is also this amazing climbing wall in the recreation center but we are not allowed to climb it at the moment because of COVID restrictions. It's also convent to be surrounded by hospitals (Rush and UIC). I got hurt while I was at school, I broke my arm, and I did not have to call on anyone to take me to the hospital, I could just walk. The food is okay and you get to chose from a good selection of things. The rooms where a nice size and most of the students were so friendly it was easy to make friends. ... Read 4 reviews

University of Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The University of Chicago offers many clubs you can attend. Do to COIVD most of the clubs meet online and some in person one day out of the week. There's boxing, archery, fencing, and one of my... .

Read 4 reviews.

Graduate School of Arts and Social Sciences

Lesley University •

Graduate School •

CAMBRIDGE, MA

• • Rating 4.75 out of 5   4

University of Illinois Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, IL

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   31

San Francisco Bay University

FREMONT, CA

• • Rating 3 out of 5   2

JHU School of Education

Baltimore, MD •

Johns Hopkins University •

• • Rating 4.65 out of 5   20 reviews

Master's Student: The clinical mental health counseling program has been great in emphasizing the importance of cultural competence in the counseling space. I have been able to collaborate with an amazing group of peers that make up my cohort to face challenges and concerns that arise in regard to the field of counseling. I have had some great professors who do their best to ensure we have the knowledge we need to be successful. However, there have been some adjunct professors who have other obligations that take away their time from providing feedback in a timely fashion and prolong receiving grades back for assignments. There have also been major changes in faculty that affect our ability to know what professor we will have when registering for the next semester. ... Read 20 reviews

Johns Hopkins University ,

BALTIMORE, MD ,

20 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The clinical mental health counseling program has been great in emphasizing the importance of cultural competence in the counseling space. I have been able to collaborate with an amazing group of... .

Read 20 reviews.

Bouvé College of Health Sciences

Boston, MA •

Northeastern University •

• • Rating 4.25 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: I have been working full time while in school full time to prepare for my future. Navigating my way through college has been a struggle at times due to being the first, first time college student in my family with having no one close to me to be able to answer the questions I have. Other then that i really enjoyed the challenges of college. This has not been an easy journey but I do believe it's been worth it. I received my high school diploma at a technical highschool then started my college journey at a community college in Worcester. After receiving my associates degree there I applied to Worcester State University and received my degree in science. After all this I applied to Northeastern University and I am currently getting my degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis. ... Read 4 reviews

Northeastern University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I have been working full time while in school full time to prepare for my future. Navigating my way through college has been a struggle at times due to being the first, first time college student in... .

Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development

New York, NY •

New York University •

• • Rating 4.32 out of 5   28 reviews

Master's Student: So far I’m almost a year into NYU Steinhardt’s online speech program and I love it! For those who don’t mind online learning and can time manage, this is for you. It gives me more flexibility and encourages me to stay on top of asynchronous work for my zoom meets. Another big plus about this program and why I chose it is that I did not graduate with a bachelor’s in speech or CSD. This program offers most prerequisite classes that extend your plan of study but is so worth it. The only down side is the prerequisites required by ASHA cannot be taken through their program. So while I have taken statistics, a biological and behavioral /social science during my undergrad I will need to take a physical science outside of the program before I start my clinic/practicums. Overall, many of my peers seem to enjoy the program too and even though the program is online for me, the helpfulness and acceptance from professors is truly unmatched. ... Read 28 reviews

New York University ,

NEW YORK, NY ,

28 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says So far I’m almost a year into NYU Steinhardt’s online speech program and I love it! For those who don’t mind online learning and can time manage, this is for you. It gives me more flexibility and... .

Read 28 reviews.

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Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences

Chestnut Hill, MA •

Boston College •

Boston College ,

CHESTNUT HILL, MA ,

Lehigh University Graduate College of Education

Bethlehem, PA •

Lehigh University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Master's Student: The best part of my experience is that it is online and to apply we did not need to complete an essay. The teachers provide a lot of guidance and assistance. The Lehigh University Graduate PACE Program provides guidance. The worst part is that it is an accelerated program so you do not have time to come up for air. Papers or reports are due almost every week. ... Read 1 review

Lehigh University ,

BETHLEHEM, PA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of my experience is that it is online and to apply we did not need to complete an essay. The teachers provide a lot of guidance and assistance. The Lehigh University Graduate PACE... .

Read 1 reviews.

Liberal Arts and Sciences - University of Florida

Gainesville, FL •

University of Florida •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Master's Student: Overall, the University of Florida seems to be a great school as far as rankings and attendance rates go. Despite the political turmoil going on in the state of Florida, there seems to be a relatively strong student body of undergraduate students. Graduate students, however, are less cohesive. Likely due to politics, our graduate student union is in jeopardy, and it is so difficult to get the union membership to 60%. In the Department of Sociology, Criminology, and Law, we have a very low union membership status, which is somewhat ironic considering the nature of our disciplines. The demands of balancing an assistantship and academic career are exhausting, and even more so with limited resources (financial, emotional, etc.). The faculty turnover in the dept. is also insane, likely due to the political situation that seems to be driving out all faculty members of color. Lastly, financial support is incredibly limited. All things aside, the education that I am receiving is appropriate. ... Read 1 review

University of Florida ,

GAINESVILLE, FL ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Overall, the University of Florida seems to be a great school as far as rankings and attendance rates go. Despite the political turmoil going on in the state of Florida, there seems to be a... .

Wheelock College of Education and Human Development

Boston University •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   5 reviews

Master's Student: My experience with Wheelock College has been limited since I have not officially started at the University. I have limited experience with the school and faculty. In terms of the counseling department, and the admissions team have been extremely helpful and overall thorough. The faculty seems quite kind and open as well. Wheelock college is definitely a welcoming and unique place for one to take opportunities. ... Read 5 reviews

Boston University ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says My experience with Wheelock College has been limited since I have not officially started at the University. I have limited experience with the school and faculty. In terms of the counseling... .

UW-Madison School of Education

Madison, WI •

University of Wisconsin •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   6 reviews

Doctoral Student: UW Madison's OTD program has been life changing for me. Not only have I been able to work through courses to create a foundation as a future OT practitioner, I have been able to connect with my fellow cohort members and professors in a way that these connections will last a lifetime. I am so honored to have the resources and accommodations that I do to succeed. That being said, with this program being newer, it does have some areas where it could be improved in terms of flow of content. I am sure with time and continuing feedback, this will be sorted out and make the program better and better moving forward! ... Read 6 reviews

University of Wisconsin ,

MADISON, WI ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says UW Madison's OTD program has been life changing for me. Not only have I been able to work through courses to create a foundation as a future OT practitioner, I have been able to connect with my... .

Read 6 reviews.

University of Georgia College of Education

Athens, GA •

University of Georgia •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   6 reviews

Doctoral Student: This program has challenged me in many ways, both positively and negatively; however, even the negative experiences have assisted my personal and professional growth for the better. The best parts of this program are the connections I have made with colleagues and friends, as well as faculty who hold high status in the field. Additionally, this program has helped me develop into a competent future counseling psychologist and one who has a decent grasp of multicultural and social justice competency, which is important to me and vital to our field. That said, the worst parts of my experience relate to this, in that I do not feel we have enough formal training when it comes to social justice/multicultural competence. I and others in my program have also experienced the negative impacts of COVID-19 and its impact on departmental organization, which has affected our educational trajectories. This has made all of us resilient, however, and we are all on track for success! ... Read 6 reviews

University of Georgia ,

ATHENS, GA ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says This program has challenged me in many ways, both positively and negatively; however, even the negative experiences have assisted my personal and professional growth for the better. The best parts of... .

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School of Education and Human Development - University of Miami

Coral Gables, FL •

University of Miami •

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: I had excellent faculty that was excited to help me in my Master's journey. There were endless opportunities to learn and build my expertise in counseling. ... Read 3 reviews

University of Miami ,

CORAL GABLES, FL ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I had excellent faculty that was excited to help me in my Master's journey. There were endless opportunities to learn and build my expertise in counseling. .

School of Education and Counseling Psychology - Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA •

Santa Clara University •

• • Rating 4.2 out of 5   5 reviews

Master's Student: A strength is that most classes help you not only learn pertinent theory and techniques, but to examine your own life and experiences so that you are prepared to sit with others in their pain while being aware of your own "stuff." Because it is not a cohort program (folks can take 3-6+ years to complete if they want), it attracts a wider range of students (ages, life and work experience, family status, etc.) so there is lots to learn from discussions with peers. There are many excellent professors! A downside is that quality of learning varies greatly by instructor, so it's recommended that you do your research beforehand. I would recommend taking more than 3 years so that you can better guarantee you can take classes with good professors. Another downside is that the school has accepted a lot of students recently, but we need more administrative staff. They've increased classes, which are still capped at 24, but admin is stretched thin. A good variety of online, in-person, and hybrid! ... Read 5 reviews

Santa Clara University ,

SANTA CLARA, CA ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says A strength is that most classes help you not only learn pertinent theory and techniques, but to examine your own life and experiences so that you are prepared to sit with others in their pain while... .

Penn State College of Education

University Park, PA •

Penn State •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Doctoral Student: Our instructional mission includes undergraduate, graduate, professional, continuing, and extension education offered through both resident instruction and distance learning. Our educational programs are enriched by the talent, knowledge, diversity, creativity, and teaching and research acumen of our faculty, students, and staff. ... Read 2 reviews

Penn State ,

UNIVERSITY PARK, PA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Our instructional mission includes undergraduate, graduate, professional, continuing, and extension education offered through both resident instruction and distance learning. Our educational programs... .

Read 2 reviews.

College of Liberal Arts - Texas A&M University

College Station, TX •

Texas A&M University •

Texas A&M University ,

COLLEGE STATION, TX ,

University of Iowa College of Education

Iowa City, IA •

University of Iowa •

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   7 reviews

Master's Student: Take advantage of every opportunity extended to you that you think will benefit you in any way. Build relationships and make connections with classmates and faculty who will support your work and help you achieve your future goals. ... Read 7 reviews

University of Iowa ,

IOWA CITY, IA ,

7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Take advantage of every opportunity extended to you that you think will benefit you in any way. Build relationships and make connections with classmates and faculty who will support your work and... .

Read 7 reviews.

Auburn University College of Education

Auburn, AL •

Auburn University •

Auburn University ,

AUBURN, AL ,

Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education

Norman, OK •

University of Oklahoma •

Graduate Student: The University of Oklahoma offers excellent education programs and opportunities for its students. I have been able to obtain my Master of Human Relations and am now looking to obtain a Master of Arts in Museum Studies. This will enable me to be well versed in an area that I am most passionate about. ... Read 2 reviews

University of Oklahoma ,

NORMAN, OK ,

Featured Review: Graduate Student says The University of Oklahoma offers excellent education programs and opportunities for its students. I have been able to obtain my Master of Human Relations and am now looking to obtain a Master of... .

College of Education - Washington State University

Pullman, WA •

Washington State University •

Washington State University ,

PULLMAN, WA ,

Morgridge College of Education

Denver, CO •

University of Denver •

• • Rating 2.86 out of 5   7 reviews

Current Master's student: The 100% online Masters of School Counseling Program is tailored for the working student very well. The class work has all been manageable while working a couple jobs, and the professors are incredibly supportive of the fact that we are not just students, but people with many things to juggle. ... Read 7 reviews

University of Denver ,

DENVER, CO ,

7 Niche users give it an average review of 2.9 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The 100% online Masters of School Counseling Program is tailored for the working student very well. The class work has all been manageable while working a couple jobs, and the professors are... .

KU School of Education

Lawrence, KS •

The University of Kansas •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   5 reviews

Master's Student: The professors are amazing and easy to work with. The projects are applicable to the real world. You get a lot of resources to transfer into your career choice ... Read 5 reviews

The University of Kansas ,

LAWRENCE, KS ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The professors are amazing and easy to work with. The projects are applicable to the real world. You get a lot of resources to transfer into your career choice .

St. Lawrence University

Canton, NY •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   3 reviews

Alum: St. Lawrence University was an amazing in the middle of nowhere, NY. Since there were very few things to do off campus the university made sure that they provided multiple opportunities for student life enrichment through fellowships, clubs, sports, events, etc. The academics at St. Lawrence are also top-notch. ... Read 3 reviews

CANTON, NY ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says St. Lawrence University was an amazing in the middle of nowhere, NY. Since there were very few things to do off campus the university made sure that they provided multiple opportunities for student... .

University of San Francisco School of Education

San Francisco, CA •

University of San Francisco •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   8 reviews

Master's Student: I feel that this program is heavily committed to social justice which is something that is extremely important to me. Going into the mental health field, it is important to be attuned to what is going on in the "real world" and USF does a great job at making things "real". The professors are actively working in the mental health field, and a lot of them are doing community mental health which really ties in the social justice aspect of the profession. It has made my academic experience much livelier and relatable. ... Read 8 reviews

University of San Francisco ,

SAN FRANCISCO, CA ,

8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I feel that this program is heavily committed to social justice which is something that is extremely important to me. Going into the mental health field, it is important to be attuned to what is... .

Read 8 reviews.

University of St. Thomas - Minnesota Graduate School of Professional Psychology

St Paul, MN •

University of St. Thomas - Minnesota •

Current Master's student: I chose this program because my research mentor said, "the best therapists I've worked with trained at the University of St. Thomas Graduate School of Professional Psychology". This surely grabbed my attention and I can attest to the quality of education I've received after a year of study. The diversely trained faculty bring their applicable experience to the classroom. They stay up-to-date on current research and relate to the students. I feel supported not only academically but personally too. The faculty want us to succeed and through their coursework, interactive classes, creative projects, and strong community connections I believe they are setting us up for success. ... Read 1 review

University of St. Thomas - Minnesota ,

ST PAUL, MN ,

Featured Review: Current Master's student says I chose this program because my research mentor said, "the best therapists I've worked with trained at the University of St. Thomas Graduate School of Professional Psychology". This surely grabbed my... .

Radford University

RADFORD, VA

• • Rating 4.54 out of 5   24

Graduate School of Health and Human Services - Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota •

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1

Walla Walla University

COLLEGE PLACE, WA

• • Rating 4.36 out of 5   14

Showing results 1 through 25 of 294

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Online Master of Science (MS) in Psychology

At the forefront of pressing and emerging issues affecting our communities .

The online Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree at Palo Alto University empowers working professionals to explore new career options or pursue advanced leadership roles, effecting impactful change in the mental health field. 

To create a flexible learning experience, Palo Alto University offers the master’s in psychology program in a part-time, fully online format, with courses delivered in the evening. This enables students to enroll in our rigorous graduate program without detracting from their work schedule. 

Through engaging coursework and research and a supportive academic environment, graduate students earning their MS in psychology acquire in-demand skills, valuable insight into human behavior and mental processes, and professional development.

Watch Video to Learn More!

Why Earn Your Psychology Master’s Degree at PAU?

• Flexible, fully online format, allowing you to complete your degree in six to seven quarters
• Four available concentrations to specialize your master’s degree for careers in forensic, mental health, or academia
• Stabilized tuition so you can financially plan for your education
• A 47-year legacy of being at the forefront of psychology and counseling

Who Should Consider the Online MS in Psychology?

The psychology master’s program is ideal for individuals seeking a career change to the mental health field or those already in the field and wanting to specialize their expertise, acquire more advanced skills, and elevate their career prospects.

With concentration tracks, graduate students have the option to take a broadened approach to their education by pursuing the general concentration, which covers the breadth of the psychology field. Or, students can tailor their master’s degree and select the forensic, tech and mental health, or the PhD prep tracks to support their specific career or doctoral education goals.  

Graduate Courses Delivered Online

Pursue your master’s degree in psychology without uprooting your life. Offered in a fully online format, the PAU graduate psychology program prioritizes flexibility, with all coursework delivered synchronously online via Zoom. Participate in live evening classes, which fosters a supportive learning environment and encourages meaningful interaction with both students and instructors.

MS in Psychology Concentrations

During their time in the MS in Psychology program’s general track, students take a wide range of psychology and research classes, establishing the foundation of their graduate education.

Graduate students examine essential topics, including human development throughout the lifespan, social and personality psychology, and biological, cognitive, and affective bases of behavior. Additionally, students dive into the history of psychology, psychopathology and psychodiagnosis, and the ethics of working in clinical psychology.

Because PAU’s general psychology concentration provides students with highly transferable knowledge and skills, they graduate equipped to work in fields such as higher education, business, technology, and teaching.

Forensic Psychology

The forensic psychology concentration is an excellent educational track for graduate students interested in careers in the criminal justice or legal disciplines. In addition to studying the fundamentals of psychology, human development, and research and statistics methodologies, students enroll in electives that give an overview of the interrelation of psychology and the law.

Students may also supplement their curriculum with free courses from PAU's Continuing and Professional Studies program. 

Planning on pursuing a doctorate in psychology? Students working toward their MS in Psychology may apply to transition into the PAU residential PhD in Clinical Psychology program when entering the program's second year. The PhD Prep concentration is an effective way to demonstrate academic readiness for graduate-level work.

The PhD program is selective; students must meet academic qualifications to receive an invitation to interview. Admission to the PHD program is not guaranteed.

Tech & Mental Health

Designed for graduate students who want to use technology to improve mental health, this concentration offers a deep understanding of the interplay between psychology and rapidly changing technology. Students analyze the current trends in mental health and wellness, the changing demands of the technology workforce, the expansion of the mental health and technology venture and corporate sector, and how an understanding of psychology can benefit those who want to work in technology.

Through this concentration, graduate students can pursue technology-related careers in fields such as education, nonprofits, government, and more.

For consideration for the online master’s in psychology program, applicants must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Be located in a state in which PAU is authorized to provide online education
• Developmental psychology
• Physiological or biological psychology
• Physiological or abnormal psychology

Once all application materials have been received and reviewed, the University invites applicants who meet admission requirements to one-on-one interviews with a PAU faculty member. Applicants typically receive their admissions decision four to six weeks after the interview. 

The MS Psychology program consists of 37.5 or 47 quarter units of coursework, depending on the chosen concentration. There is no thesis requirement. Courses are taken over six or seven consecutive quarters (including summer) beginning only in fall quarter.

Students take two or three courses during most quarters. Students in the PhD Prep Concentration are required to travel to Palo Alto for a one-week intensive course in clinical interviewing.

Tuition & Financial Aid

PAU commits to making graduate education affordable and accessible to all students. With our stabilized tuition, competitively priced tuition, and helpful financial aid resources, we empower students to invest in their education and earn their degree.

Visit our Tuition and Cost page or contact our Financial Aid department to learn more. 

Application Materials

During the application process, applicants must submit:

• PSYCAS application
• Résumé or CV
• Statement of purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts

The program does not require GRE scores for admission nor reviews them if included in the application materials.

Learn From PAU’s Expert Faculty

PAU’s faculty members leading the master’s in psychology program bring years of diverse experience in clinical, research, and pedagogical fields. With their guidance and insight, students achieve success in their graduate programs and future careers.

PAU Alumni Success Stories

Developer Experience Researcher at Google

Director for the U.S. Department of State

Researcher at UCLA

Related Program

Students seeking clinical practice and Marriage and Family Therapist (MST) or Licensed Clinical Counselor (LPCC) credentials should apply to PAU’s MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling , which provides a path to licensure in many other states and countries.

Elevate Your Education With PAU’s Online MS in Psychology

Earn your Master of Science (MS) in Psychology online from Palo Alto University and discover a world of possibilities. With highly transferable skills and a deep understanding of human behavior and cognition, you can pursue fulfilling careers in a variety of fields and industries. 

Apply Today

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Distance Learning at AIU is enhanced by vast academic resources and innovative technologies build into the Virtual Campus: Hundreds of self-paced courses with video lectures and step by step lessons, thousands of optional assignments, 140,000 e-books, the Social Media & Networking platform allowing collaboration/chat/communications between students, and MYAIU develop students holistically in 11 areas beyond just academics.

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The Complete Guide To Distance Learning Program: What It Is, And How To Get Started

In recent years, distance learning has emerged as a powerful educational tool, offering flexibility and accessibility to learners worldwide. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), around 7.5 million U.S. students depend upon online classes for higher education. In fact, the Covid-19 pandemic has played a big role in accelerating the popularity of remote learning from 2020. It has reshaped the modern learning system especially in higher education offering students flexibility in learning. It is quite an evolution to step out of a traditional classroom setting and enter the digital world of learning where nothing can stop a curious mind from gaining knowledge.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics

Definition and Significance of Distance Learning

What is distance learning program.

Distance learning, also known as online learning or e-learning, encompasses various educational formats that allow students to learn remotely, often utilizing digital technologies and the same internet connection. This mode of education transcends geographical boundaries, enabling individuals to access quality education regardless of location or time constraints.

The significance of distance learning lies in its ability to democratize education, making it accessible to a diverse range of learners, including working professionals, individuals with disabilities, and those residing in remote areas with limited access to traditional educational institutions. Moreover, distance learning offers flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities. For Atlantic international University our model of Academic Freedom and self determination where the student is empowered to chart his/her own unique path have led to a customized Learning Management System (LMS) and Virtual Campus. At the core of it is freedom of choice bringing together daily live classes, weekly optional assignments, AI assisted course creation, Mini-Courses to facilitate microlearning, Symposiums and Webinars for students and staff to exchange ideas and robust  library resources such as 260,000 books accessible online. As a community component Gamification of the learning process such as earning badges, unlocking gifts and AIULink which is AIU’s social media platform/networking via AIULink create the opportunity for online students to join together and collaborate.

Overview of the Article’s Focus

This article provides a comprehensive guide to everything educators and learners need to know for successful distance learning programs. We will explore critical components that contribute to the effectiveness of distance learning, including:

• Technological Infrastructure: This section provides an overview of the essential technological tools and platforms required for seamless online learning experiences, such as learning management systems (LMS), video conferencing software, and collaboration tools.
• Pedagogical Strategies: Insights into effective teaching methodologies tailored for distance learning environments, including asynchronous and synchronous learning approaches, interactive multimedia content, and assessment strategies that promote engagement and learning outcomes.
• Student Support Services: This section discusses the importance of robust student support services in distance learning programs , including online tutoring, academic advising, and technical assistance, to enhance student success and retention rates.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: Consider accessibility standards and practices to ensure that distance learning programs accommodate diverse learners, including those with disabilities, linguistic differences, or varying learning preferences.
• Best Practices for Engagement and Motivation: Strategies for fostering active participation, collaboration, and intrinsic motivation among distance learners, such as gamification, peer interaction, and personalized learning experiences.
• Evaluation and Continuous Improvement: Guidance on monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of distance learning programs through feedback mechanisms, data analytics, and iterative improvements to enhance overall quality and learner satisfaction.

What Are the Infrastructure Requirements for Successful Distance Learning Programs?

Access to reliable internet connectivity.

• Reliable internet connectivity is paramount for seamless participation in online education, remote learning classes online, and virtual classrooms.
• Internet access enables students to engage in e-learning initiatives, access Internet-based education resources, take online classes and receive remote instruction.
• It facilitates web-based distance learning courses, through digital education platforms, ensuring uninterrupted access to distance education courses and online learning opportunities.

Availability of Suitable Devices (Computers, Tablets, etc.)

• Access to suitable devices such as computers, tablets, or smartphones is essential for accessing online education resources and participating in remote learning activities.
• These devices allow students to connect to their virtual classroom, engage in e-learning initiatives, and access digital education platforms.
• Ensuring the availability of devices enables students to fully leverage distance education courses and take advantage of online learning opportunities from anywhere.

Necessary Software and Applications for Online Learning

• The availability of necessary software and applications is crucial for facilitating compelling online learning experiences.
• These software tools enable students to interact with online courses and materials, participate in virtual classrooms, and engage in collaborative activities.
• Essential software and applications may include learning management systems (LMS), video conferencing tools, interactive multimedia resources, and productivity suites tailored for digital education platforms. Some examples are: Moodle, Blackboard, AtNova or self-development such as .NET used by AIU.

By addressing these infrastructure requirements, educational institutions can create an online environment more conducive to successful distance learning programs, ensuring students can access the tools and resources necessary for engaging and impactful online education experiences.

Academic Preparedness for Successful Distance Learning Programs

• Understanding the Expectations of Distance Learning Courses:

In transitioning to online education, whether through remote learning, virtual classrooms , or e-learning initiatives, students must grasp the unique expectations of distance learning courses. Unlike traditional classroom settings, where face-to-face interactions may dominate, online education relies heavily on web-based and digital learning platforms.

Students must familiarize themselves with the structure of these online courses, including assignment deadlines, communication protocols, and participation expectations. Understanding these expectations is crucial for navigating distance education courses effectively and maximizing online learning opportunities.

• Importance of Self-Discipline and Motivation:

One of the cornerstones of academic preparedness in online education is the cultivation of self-discipline and motivation. Without the physical presence of instructors or classmates to provide immediate accountability, students in online program must take proactive measures to stay engaged and on track.

Remote instruction requires high self-motivation to overcome potential distractions and maintain consistent study habits. Developing time management skills, setting realistic goals, and staying organized are essential for sustaining academic progress in web-based learning environments. Self-discipline and motivation play pivotal roles in ensuring success in distance education courses.

• Assessing One’s Readiness for Online Education:

Before embarking on distance education courses, students must assess their readiness for online learning. This involves candidly evaluating one’s learning style, technological proficiency, and personal circumstances. While online learning offers flexibility and convenience, it also requires a degree of independence and adaptability.

Students should reflect on their ability to thrive in remote online learning platforms and environments, considering their comfort with digital tools, availability of reliable internet connectivity, and capacity to manage competing priorities. Assessing readiness for online education enables individuals to make informed decisions about pursuing distance learning programs. It ensures they are adequately prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities presented by web-based learning platforms.

How Does Time Management and Organization Work in Online Education?

Time management and organization are paramount in navigating the complexities of online education and remote learning. With virtual classrooms open schedule online courses and e-learning initiatives, students must proactively create a study schedule and adhere to it diligently. Prioritizing tasks and assignments ensure that essential deadlines are met in distance education courses.

Leveraging digital education platforms and web-based learning tools facilitates efficient time management, allowing students to streamline their workflow and optimize productivity. Techniques such as breaking tasks into manageable chunks and utilizing time-blocking strategies can further enhance organization and focus. By embracing these practices, online learners can effectively balance their academic responsibilities with other commitments, maximizing online learning opportunities and achieving success in remote instruction.

• Communication and Interaction in Online Education

Communication and interaction play vital roles in online education, facilitating engagement and collaboration among students and instructors. Through digital education platforms and web-based learning environments, participants can leverage various tools and channels to connect with peers and instructors. Utilizing online platforms for communication enables students to engage in remote instruction, participate actively in virtual classrooms, and contribute to discussion forums within distance education courses.

Actively seeking clarification and feedback when needed fosters a supportive online learning environment and community where questions are addressed and ideas are exchanged. By embracing these communication channels, students can enhance their understanding of course material, develop critical thinking skills, and build meaningful connections with peers and instructors, ultimately enriching the online learning experience and maximizing online learning opportunities.

• Access to Support Services

Access to Support Services is integral for success in online education. Firstly, for traditional classroom courses, the availability of academic advising and tutoring services ensures students receive guidance and assistance in their educational journey, enhancing their understanding and performance. Secondly, accessibility to technical support for troubleshooting issues with digital platforms or devices enables smooth navigation of online learning environments, reducing potential barriers to learning.

Lastly, utilizing online libraries and resources for research and study materials expands students’ access to information, facilitating comprehensive learning experiences. These support services collectively create a conducive and supportive environment for students pursuing distance education courses and online programs, empowering them to achieve their educational goals effectively.

• Strategies for Success

Success in online education requires proactive engagement and collaboration within virtual classrooms and digital education platforms. Actively participating in course materials online class, fosters more profound understanding and retention, enhancing learning outcomes in remote instruction. Collaborating with classmates on group projects and assignments promotes teamwork and shared knowledge, enriching the online learning experience.

Additionally, seeking opportunities for networking and professional development within internet-based higher education and communities broadens horizons and cultivates valuable connections. By embracing these strategies, students can navigate distance education courses effectively, leveraging online learning opportunities to their fullest potential. Through active engagement, collaboration, and networking, learners can thrive in the dynamic landscape of remote learning, achieving academic excellence and personal growth in online education.

At AIU we Pledge for a better world

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Conclusion- Elevate your online education offerings

Throughout this guide, Distance learning has emerged as a transformative force in education, providing unprecedented flexibility and accessibility to learners worldwide. As defined, distance learning transcends geographical boundaries, empowering individuals to access quality education through internet-based platforms and digital education tools. Its significance lies in democratizing education, making it accessible to diverse learners, including professionals, individuals with disabilities, and those in remote areas.

This article has explored various aspects crucial for success in distance education, including technological infrastructure, learning process, academic preparedness, time management, communication, and support services. By embracing these strategies, learners can navigate the complexities of online education, maximize their learning opportunities, and succeed in the dynamic landscape of remote learning.

Author Bio 

Dr. Franklin Valcin , an esteemed Instructional Designer and Professor at Atlantic International University (AIU), leads the charge in shaping the future of higher education with the significance of andragogy-driven adult education. With a keen focus on integrating advanced technologies and innovative methodologies, Dr. Valcin plays a pivotal role in crafting AIU’s dynamic academic programs. As part of AIU’s academic department, he spearheads initiatives to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for personalized learning experiences. With the support and guidance of Dr. Valcin,  Atlantic International University  ensures that the unique and unrepeatable programs we offer meet the demands of today’s job market and anticipate the needs of tomorrow’s learners.

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The Top Online Associate in Psychology Degree Programs

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An associate degree in psychology can be parlayed into many professions. The ability to understand the mind is essential in a variety of fields. Possible careers include teacher's aide, family advocate, correctional officer, home care aide, youth counselor, or social services assistant.

To earn an associate degree in psychology, students must complete a minimum of 60 credits. Usually this translates into two years of full-time coursework. Graduates often go on to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology .

If you're interested in helping others, an associate degree in psychology can be a stepping stone to a fulfilling career.

What Can I Expect From an Online Associate in Psychology Program?

An online associate degree in psychology typically requires a minimum of 60 credits. You can typically graduate this program in two years. Some programs may offer self-paced or part-time options.

These programs focus on general education and foundational courses in psychology. An associate degree in psychology typically does not require internships, practicums, or labs beyond standard coursework. Degree concentrations are uncommon for associate degrees in psychology.

You can choose between an associate in arts (AA), an associate in science (AS), or an associate in applied science (AAS) degree in psychology. The AA degree will have humanities and theoretical concepts as cornerstone content. The AS or AAS degrees will include more math and science coursework.

If you demonstrate integrity, collaboration, leadership, and information management, you may do especially well in online psychology programs.

Popular Online Associates's in Psychology Programs

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

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.

What courses will i take in an online associate in psychology program, general psychology.

General psychology gives students an overview of the scientific study of human behavior. Topics include sensations, perceptions, abnormal behavior, and research methods. After the course, students should be able to describe major concepts of psychology, including human development, social behavior, and learning.

Childhood Psychology

Childhood psychology covers the development and behavior of infants, children, and adolescents. Topics include environmental influences, gender roles, language, genetics, and personality development. By the end of the course, students should understand theories, research, and cultural perceptions related to childhood development.

Abnormal Psychology

Abnormal psychology examines various psychological disorders. Topics include the clinical, theoretical, and experimental perspectives on psychopathology. The legal and ethical issues associated with treatment are also discussed.

Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology covers the study of human growth and development throughout the lifespan. Discussions cover social, psychosocial, physiological, and cognitive development from prenatal stages to death. Course objectives include understanding major theories and research in human growth and development.

Social Psychology

Social psychology explores how group dynamics affect individuals' emotional well-being, behavior and cognitive functions. Topics include implicit bias, prejudice, social behavior, and diversity. Social psychology also explores cultural influences, attitude formation, and decision-making.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Associate in Psychology Program?

Admissions requirements for an online associate in psychology degree program vary by school and specific program. Most programs require an application and proof of high school graduation or a GED certificate . Some programs also ask for high school transcripts, a minimum GPA, standardized test scores, or work experience. Here are the most common requirements:

• Application essay : Programs that require one or more essays look for applicants who reflect individuality, reflection, and deep thinking.
• Standardized test scores : Some programs require SAT or ACT scores, while others set minimum exam score requirements.
• Letters of recommendation : Programs may ask applicants for recommendation letters from teachers, supervisors, or colleagues to confirm students' college readiness.
• Work experience : Many programs value relevant work experience and may even offer credit for experiences related to courses offered.

What Can I Do With an Online Associate in Psychology Degree?

Career outlook.

An online associate in psychology degree can prepare you for a bachelor's program in psychology. This type of degree can also be a stepping stone to careers in many fields, from psychiatry and medicine to education, research, and social services.

Many of these fields are growing: Jobs for social and human service assistants are projected to grow 9% from 2022-2032, according to the BLS . This is much faster than the average projected job growth in that period of 3%. The BLS also projects that jobs for psychiatric technicians and aides will likely grow 9%.

Career Paths

Psychiatric technician or aide.

Psychiatric technicians or aides work in healthcare settings including psychiatric hospitals and mental health facilities. Responsibilities focus on caring for individuals with disabilities or mental illness. This career requires a lot of time on your feet. Job opportunities are projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030.

Median Annual Salary : $33,140

Assessment Specialist

Assessment specialists work in educational or business settings to create learning or employment assessment materials. Tests include student placement exams and employee performance or suitability assessments. Some assessment specialist positions may require an internship or previous experience.

Average Annual Salary : $59,770 (as of February 2022)

Correctional Officer

Correctional officers oversee those awaiting trial or who are sentenced to prison. Correctional officers can choose to work with juvenile offenders or may also serve the general public.

An associate degree in psychology can open more senior positions. The number of correctional officer jobs is projected to decline from 2020 to 2030.

Median Annual Salary : $47,440

Teacher's Assistant

Teacher's assistants work with teachers to give students additional instruction and personal attention. If you're considering a career in teaching, becoming a teacher's assistant can provide valuable experience. Teacher's assistant positions are available at all levels of education. The BLS projects an average 9% job growth from 2020-2030.

Median Annual Salary : $28,900

Social and Human Service Assistant

Social and human service assistants can work in psychology, rehabilitation, or social work. Activities include helping clients find services and benefits or assisting social workers. These jobs are available with nonprofits, companies, and government agencies. The BLS projects a 17% growth rate from 2020-2030, which is much faster than average.

Median Annual Salary : $35,960

Psychology Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing education.

Many graduates with an associate degree in psychology go on to earn a bachelor's degree in psychology. Those who earn an associate degree in psychology can also choose to pursue degrees and certifications in counseling.

Many degree programs allow you to transfer credit from an associate to a bachelor's program. With a credit transfer , it is possible to finish a bachelor's degree in psychology in an additional two years or less. This is also a cost-saving strategy as two-year schools often have lower tuition rates than four-year colleges and universities.

At the bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. level, you may specialize in various areas of psychology such as clinical, educational, counseling, organizational , or forensic psychology .

In addition to bachelor's and master's degrees, associate degree holders can earn psychology-specific certifications. These include mental health or psychological first aid.

How Do I Choose an Online Associate in Psychology Program?

Cost is a major deciding factor for many students. Online programs often have lower total costs than in-person programs. Of course, you'll want to factor in fees, books, transportation, technology, and other expenses to estimate the true program cost . In-state public institutions and community colleges are usually the least expensive choice.

Program Format

Depending on your school, you may be able to choose between full-time or part-time programs and synchronous and asynchronous program formats. Accelerated programs make it possible to complete an associate degree in under two years. An asynchronous online degree program offers flexibility to earn a degree while working full time.

Even in an online program, some students prefer a nearby college. Many schools also offer hybrid learning. In this case, choosing a location with an easy commute becomes more important. If the program has an on-campus requirement , you'll need to account for travel time and costs. These requirements vary by program.

Accreditation

Program accreditation is important. Look for institutional and programmatic accreditation . Students can search for their program to ensure the associate degree in psychology is widely accepted. An accredited associate degree will allow you to transfer your credits to a four-year bachelor's program. It is also more valued in the workforce and can open higher-paid positions.

Student Support

Strong student services support every part of student life. Consider whether a program offers mentorships , career services, tutoring, internships , alumni connections, or other student services .

Online students should have access to much of the same resources and materials as on-campus students. This is especially valuable for online students who do not have in-person networking opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Psychology Programs

Is an associate degree in psychology worth it.

Yes, an associate degree in psychology is worth it. With an associate degree in psychology you are qualified to enter the workforce. Credits from an associate degree can often be transferred to complete a bachelor's degree in psychology or counseling. Earning an associate degree before transferring to a bachelor's program can often save you considerable tuition expenses.

If you want to earn an associate degree in psychology without traveling, you can pursue an online associate degree . Online degrees are rapidly gaining credibility and acceptance by both employers and students.

How fast can I get an associate in psychology degree online?

It usually takes full-time students about two years to complete an associate psychology degree online. The time to completion can be accelerated in some cases with additional coursework.

Online associate in psychology degree programs require all the same core courses and curriculum as on-campus degree programs. Some students prefer to enroll in an online associate degree program while working full-time.

Online programs may provide an asynchronous option that allows students to adapt classes to their schedule. With a full course load, they should still be able to complete the degree in two years.

Is an online associate degree in psychology credible?

Yes, an online associate degree in psychology is credible. Be sure to choose an accredited institution to enroll in the online degree program.

An accredited associate degree ensures that the online program adheres to national educational standards. Credits earned for an associate degree in psychology from an accredited institution are often transferable to a bachelor's program.

Some online associate in psychology programs are also accredited by the American Psychological Association . This accreditation is usually held by graduate-level programs, but can indicate the quality of program coursework.

How much money can I make with an associate in psychology?

How much money you can make with an associate in psychology degree will depend on the career path you choose. Work experience can also lead to increased salary over time. With online and part-time degree programs, you can even pursue further education while working, increasing earning potential.

Salaries can range from $28,900 as a teacher's assistant to $48,430 in family, child, or school social services, according to May 2020 median salary data from the BLS. The average salary for assessment specialists was $59,770 , according to Payscale data from February 2020.

Is an associate degree in psychology in demand?

Many jobs that you might pursue with an associate degree in psychology are currently in demand.

According to the BLS, teacher's aides, research assistants, assessment specialists, and psychiatric technicians are projected to experience above-average job growth between 2020-2030. Social and human service assistant jobs are projected to increase 17% in that same time frame, which is much higher than average.

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Psychology Degree Concentrations: 5 Examples to Consider

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By Matt Rowley Posted on May 9, 2024

The popularity of psychology degrees has remained steady in recent years. For aspiring psychologists, bachelor’s degrees are important steps in their academic journey, as they typically continue studying in graduate programs. For others, a bachelor’s degree in psychology can be worth it on its own and help graduates advance in other related careers.

In many cases, psychology degree programs include concentrations that help students focus their studies toward specific career fields, whether they’re on the path to becoming a psychologist or otherwise.

In this article, we outline five types of psychology degree concentrations, using examples from our bachelor’s degree programs here at Columbia Southern University.

1. Criminal Justice

Psychology is becoming increasingly essential in the criminal justice field . A criminal justice degree concentration involves a particular focus on criminology and the theories that inform the U.S. criminal justice system. Students grapple with the theoretical reasons for crime, its psychological impact on victims, and the psychology and motivations of criminal justice professionals.

This popular concentration teaches students to develop a functional understanding of the justice system and learn which psychological, emotional and societal factors influence people to commit crimes.

Classes in a criminal justice concentration may include:

• Criminology
• Mental Illness and Crime
• Victimology

Related: Criminal Justice Degree Programs: What to Expect

2. Diversity and Inclusion

As the phrase “diversity, equity and inclusion” continues to grow in usage and become a part of our common language, it’s no surprise that businesses are increasingly hiring DEI experts and universities are launching DEI degree programs .

Psychology degree programs with a concentration in diversity, equity and inclusion are focused on the experiences and difficulties faced by people who are marginalized based on their gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or socioeconomic background. These programs aim to provide insight into how to address the issues of bias, marginalization and discrimination in professional, educational and social settings.

A degree concentration focused on diversity and inclusion may include classes such as:

• Diversity and Cultural Inclusion
• Psychology of Gender
• Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination

3. Forensics

Forensic psychologists work in the criminal justice field, with a particular focus on assessments and research into the mental state of criminals, victims, witnesses and others involved in the criminal justice system. Studying forensic psychology gives students the skills necessary to assess an individual’s mental state and motivations based on interviews, crime scene investigations and other factors.

Lawyers, law enforcement professionals, courts and other entities in the criminal justice system rely on forensic psychology to assess the state, credibility and mental fitness of criminals, victims or others.

Forensic psychology degree programs include classes such as:

• Introduction to Forensic Investigation
• Forensic Psychology
• Pathology of Death

Related: Forensic Science Myths and the “CSI Effect”

4. Industrial/Organizational

Also called I/O psychology , this degree concentration involves applying psychological principles and science to the structure, productivity and outcomes of a workplace or organization. Focusing on the interactions between people and organizational patterns and decisions, I/O psychologists work to uncover the ways personal, emotional and social behavior affects the success or failure of an organization.

I/O psychologists can be focused externally as well, helping companies understand consumer behavior, public relations and ethics. More than some other concentrations, I/O psychology also focuses a great deal on group dynamics and interactions, exploring organizations as large groups, a set of subgroups, and the relations between them. The day-to-day work of I/O psychologists is often strongly intertwined with occupational safety and health , as well as human resources .

Classes in an industrial/organizational psychology concentration may include:

• Human Relations and Development
• Negotiation/Conflict Resolution
• Team Building and Leadership

5. Mental Health

Possibly the best-known psychological discipline, a mental health concentration provides students a foundation in the identification, assessment and treatment of mental health issues. Students explore the history and theoretical basis of psychology as it relates to mental health, learn how to use statistics and academic research, and study real-world situations in which examples of common mental health issues unfold.

Because one in five adults struggle with mental health issues , this discipline touches everyone’s life in some way. Studying the many situations and dynamics that create these mental health issues is an essential part of psychology.

Psychology degree programs focused on mental health include classes such as:

• Close Relationships
• Cognitive Psychology
• Health Psychology

Getting Started at CSU

Here at Columbia Southern University, our psychology degree concentrations enable our students to customize their studies with a specific focus on their career path. The exposure to focused research, interaction with subject matter experts, and intimate knowledge of the field and the psychological principles at play provide a foundation for success.

For more information about all our online degree programs and concentrations, visit our website .

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology Worth It?

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Want a Career in Psychology? Here Are 10 Specializations to Consider

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Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Finish your degree at ecu, find your focus with ecu online’s psychology degree completion program.

In today’s dynamic professional world, psychology underscores every decision, interaction, and strategy, providing valuable insights into human behavior and motivation. At East Carolina University®, our online BA in Psychology program offers a streamlined and comprehensive exploration of this fundamental discipline, deepening your understanding of the human experience and preparing you to utilize these insights in your life and career.

Through practical, real-world learning, our curriculum delves into core areas such as information processing, memory, and the biological basis of psychological phenomena. Then, we give you the tools to apply that understanding to key areas of any career such as critical thinking, written communication, and interpersonal collaboration.

Upon graduating from the program, you’ll be well-positioned to advance in industries like business, communication, mental health services, government, nonprofit, and more. Beyond academics, we pride ourselves on robust student support, from comprehensive academic advising to dedicated career coaching that sets you up for success.

What You’ll Learn

ECU’s online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology is designed to help you recognize your own unique perspective while enriching the connections with the people you meet and work with every day. Our widely applicable program with a built-in minor of your choice allows you to complete a bachelor’s degree that employers recognize and value, as you’ll learn key skills such as:

• Behavioral science and research design
• Interpreting data in decision-making
• Operating effectively in an organization
• Managing high stress situations
• Information processing and memory
• Professionalism and communication
• Critical thinking and cooperation
• Human behavior and the social environment

Career Outcomes With a Psychology Degree

A BA in Psychology can help you reach your career goals in practically any field, including business, government, nonprofit, and health services. Some job titles that some of our graduates hold include:*

Project Management Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $95,370

Market Research Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $68,230

Public Relations Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $67,440

Human Resources Specialist

Median Annual Salary: $64,240

Median Annual Salary: $61,190

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselor

Median Annual Salary: $48,520

*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Curriculum & Courses

Psychology is a dynamic major, and that’s reflected in our curriculum. The BA degree requires 120 total credit hours, with 40 hours of general education courses, 12 hours of a foreign language (1001 to 2004), 35 hours in the study of Psychology, a minor, and general electives.

Keep in mind that as a degree completion program we accept transfer credits, which may significantly reduce your required hours to graduate. The required psychology courses include:

Introductory Course (choose one) – 3 credit hours

PSYC 1000 - Introductory Psychology PSYC 1060 - Honors Introduction to Psychology

Statistics Course (choose one) – 4 credit hours

BIOS 1500 - Introduction to Biostatistics MATH 2228 - Elementary Statistical Methods MATH 2283 - Statistics for Business PSYC 2101 - Psychological Statistics\

Research Methods Course – 4 credit hours

PSYC 2210 - Research Methods in Psychology

Learning and Cognition Course (choose one) – 3 credit hours

PSYC 3225 - Psychology of Learning PSYC 3226 - Cognitive Psychology PSYC 3227 - Learning Theories and Applications\

Biological Bases Course (choose one) – 3 credit hours

PSYC 3310 - Introduction to Neuroscience PSYC 3311 - Neuropsychology PSYC 3312 - Sensation and Perception\

General Courses (choose two) – 6 credit hours

PSYC 3206 - Developmental Psychology PSYC 3221 - Social Psychology PSYC 3300 - Psychology of Personality PSYC 3325 - Introduction to Psychological Testing PSYC 3375 - Abnormal Psychology\

Capstone Course – 3 credit hours

PSYC 4000 - Advanced General Psychology

You will choose an additional 9 credit hours (three courses) as electives from the list above.

"I fully encourage anyone who might be considering distance education, to give East Carolina University serious consideration. Living at home and taking classes online meant that I had much more flexibility in my schedule and the ability to work full time without sacrificing my education. As a result, I was able to graduate on schedule, without any debt, and with a useful degree."

• Tuition and Financial Aid

$375 PER CREDIT HOUR

120 credit hours*.

*Transfer credits may reduce number of hours

FINANCIAL AID ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

ECU online program tuition for in-state students is just $375 per credit hour plus fees. For out-of-state students, the tuition is $450 per credit hour plus fees. Active military stationed in North Carolina may be eligible for a lower tuition rate of $250 per credit hour. With transfer credits and financial aid, your bachelor’s degree is within reach.

WIDELY APPLICABLE SKILLS

You’ll gain key insights and professional competencies to lead organizational success across industries and effectively manage interpersonal relationships.

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER

The program will deepen your understanding of human behavior, empowering you to make the transition to management or increase your impact in your current role.

TRANSFER-FRIENDLY

You can transfer credits from coursework you’ve already completed and fast-track your path to a BA—with just 35 core credits required for our online psychology degree.

BEYOND ACADEMICS

Our focus on individualized attention, student support, and career services ensures that you leave not only with academic proficiency but the tools for advancement.

ECU was ranked in the top 10 of America’s Top Online Colleges 2023 by Newsweek , meaning that you’ll graduate with a degree respected by employers nationwide.

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

ECU is more than a university—it’s a community. Even as an online student, you’ll benefit from a powerful network of peers and faculty who truly care about your success.

The next class start date is approaching. Don’t wait to apply!

Complementary minor.

You’ll be able to choose from a variety of minors to enhance your employability, including including Human Development and Family Science, Criminal Justice, Communication, and more.

Online undergraduate students are required to have a minimum of 24 hours of transferable credits for admission. Students are evaluated under the transfer applicant criteria below:

• Only courses with a grade of “C” or higher from regionally accredited institutions are eligible to transfer and can be used to gain admission.
• Students under the age of 21 will also be expected to meet NC High School Minimum Course Requirements and are required to submit a final high school transcript.
• A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA for all college-level coursework attempted.

Undergraduate Students Application Materials

• A completed online application .
• All official transcripts from each college, technical institute, or university attended, if applicable. Send transcripts to: Office of Undergraduate Admissions Mail Stop 517 East Carolina University Greenville, NC 27858-435 We also accept electronic transcripts from most transcript services. Please request to have them sent directly to [email protected] .

Residency Determination

The Residency Determination Service (RDS) has been established by the North Carolina State Legislature as the centralized service for determining residency for students. If you are a student applying for admission and claiming in-state residency for tuition purposes, you must visit NCresidency.org NCresidency.org to verify your residency.

If you’ve already completed the residency verification process and obtained your Residency Certification Number (RCN), you can enter your RCN when filling out our application. If you do not already have your RCN, you may submit your application and then come back and enter your RCN once you have it.

For more information, visit the Office of the Registrar’s Residency page , or contact RDS at 1-844-319-3640 or [email protected] .

About ECU Online

ECU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) and was the first university in North Carolina to offer online degrees. We’ve continued to enhance the online experience ever since. As an established institution in North Carolina, we pride ourselves on offering a student-first, community-centric experience that empowers graduates to complete their online degrees from a reputable institution that employers recognize.

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Fill out the form below, and an admissions representative will reach out to you with more information. After you’ve completed the form, you’ll automatically be redirected to learn more about East Carolina University and your chosen program.

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