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How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Psychology?

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

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

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• How Long Will It Take?

Before You Earn PhD in Psychology

Which type of degree should you get, can you finish your degree early.

Just how long does it take to get a PhD in psychology? The answer can vary depending on your program, educational background, and academic schedule. In general, most PhD psychology programs take anywhere from five to seven years to complete.

Learning more about what it takes to get a doctorate in psychology can help you better plan your educational and career journey.

At a Glance

Getting a PhD in psychology can take several years of graduate study. If you are thinking about becoming a psychologist, research your degree options to figure out what type of degree you need and how long it will take to enter your chosen profession. No matter what you decide, plan to spend anywhere from three to seven years in graduate school to earn a doctorate.

How Long Will It Take to Get a Doctorate Degree?

How long it takes to get a doctorate in psychology depends on various factors, including the type of degree you have selected, your educational background, and the individual doctorate program in which you have enrolled.

Most doctorate programs in psychology take between four to seven years to complete.

PhD in Psychology

Most PhD programs require at least five to seven years to complete. These programs often follow a scientist-practitioner model that trains professionals both in research and clinical practice.

In addition to regular coursework, you may also be expected to complete an internship or supervised residency. The program usually culminates in completing an original research project or dissertation.

PsyD Degree

Most PsyD programs require between four to six years to complete. A PsyD is a degree designed to train professionals to apply psychological knowledge to treating and helping people in real-world settings.

According to the American Psychological Association, PsyD programs focus more on applying psychological science, usually in the form of service.  

Most EdD programs require between three to five years to complete. EdD programs are often focused on psychology, counseling, or counselor education. They explore topics that involve both education and psychology.

It is important to note that many applicants to EdD programs already hold a master's degree in a related field. This differs from applicants to PhD and PsyD programs, who often begin their program of study with a bachelor's degree.

Before you begin your academic journey, it is a good idea to look at just how long it will take you to complete your degree. The amount of time it will take can depend upon various factors, including:

• Your chosen specialty area
• The program you select
• The course load you can take each semester

A doctorate-level degree in psychology is required to work in many job areas, including as a licensed clinical psychologist or counseling psychologist. According to the American Psychological Association, a doctorate degree is also often required in fields such as school psychology or health psychology .

So how long does it take to get a PhD in Psychology ? First, it is essential to realize that the degree requirements can vary depending on the field that you decide to pursue. A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy degree is not necessarily your only option. In some cases, you might want also to consider the PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) or the EdD (Doctor of Education) degree options.

The PhD, PsyD, and EdD are all great options, but don't let how long it takes to complete be the primary deciding factor. Before you decide to get a doctorate degree, start by deciding which type of degree is most suited to your professional goals.

If you want to conduct research:

A PhD in Psychology tends to focus on a research-based model of education. People with a PhD in Psychology are qualified for a wide range of teaching, research, and clinical positions in colleges, universities, hospitals, government offices, and private mental health practices.

If you want to treat mental health issues:

The PsyD degree option generally focuses on a practitioner-based model of education. Individuals with a PsyD degree can also teach or conduct psychology research, but they frequently work in applied settings to provide direct mental health services.

If you want to apply psychology to help students:

Finally, there is also a third doctorate option that you might also want to consider depending on your career goals. If you are interested in working as a school psychologist or in a related educational field, the EdD, or Doctor of Education, is a possible option.

Despite the years of work, earning your PhD, PsyD, or EdD can be well worth the effort. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that workers with a doctoral or education specialist degree in clinical, counseling, and school psychology will find the strongest job opportunities.

Generally, if you have a strong background in psychology and have completed all of the necessary prerequisites, you can finish your doctorate sooner than students who have not taken the prerequisite courses.

Carefully planning your degree can also help ensure you complete the program requirements quickly.

Be sure you have a clear idea of what you want to do with your psychology degree once you've completed it. Do you want to teach, or is research more appealing to you? Are you interested in seeing clients, or are you planning to combine your training in psychology with another field, such as law or medicine?

If you need help deciding, make an important with an academic advisor at your school. They can help you explore your options and answer any questions you may have.

What This Means For You

No matter the degree you decide to pursue, earning a doctorate in psychology requires a significant investment of time, money, and effort. Because of this, it is essential to carefully consider your goals before deciding on a graduate program. You should also think about whether you need a doctorate or if a master's might be more appropriate.

Gee DG, DeYoung KA, McLaughlin KA, et al. Training the next generation of clinical psychological scientists: A data-driven call to action .  Annu Rev Clin Psychol . 2022;18:43-70. doi:10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-081219-092500

Loyola University. Can I get my Psy.D. without a Master's in Psychology?

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

Franklin University. Is getting a Doctorate in Education worth it?

American Psychological Association. Frequently asked questions about graduate school .

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Psychologists . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Carr, A. Clinical Psychology: An Introduction . London: Routledge; 2012.

Kuther, TL. The Psychology Major's Handbook . Boston, MA: Cengage Learning; 2016.

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

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Psychology Graduate Program

• Psychology Department
• FAQ for Applicants

Please check out our  PRO-TiP  (PhD Resources and Online Tips Page)!  PRO-TiP provides easy and open access to resources that help demystify the process of applying to graduate programs in Psychology.

What kind of program does Harvard offer?

The Harvard Psychology Department offers a research-oriented Ph.D. program in four areas: Experimental Psychopathology & Clinical Science, Developmental, Social, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB). The Department does not offer a terminal master’s degree in psychology, though students admitted to the Ph.D. program can earn a master’s along the way. Some graduates of the program seek positions as research psychologists in an academic setting. Other graduates get positions in government, consulting firms, tech startups or larger tech companies, hospitals or social service agencies, and other network or private clinical settings.  The Department offers two tracks, Clinical Science and a Common Curriculum. The common curriculum is composed of three sub-fields: Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB). The Common Curriculum, described in the program section of the graduate program website ,   is taken by all students except those in Clinical Science. Though these area boundaries exist, collaboration is an important aspect of our academic community. As such, faculty and students collaborate within and across these area boundaries.

How do I get information about Harvard doctoral program admissions?

The Harvard Griffin GSAS Admissions website includes information about how to apply, required application materials, test score requirements, deadlines, and FAQs.  The application process is online .  This link connects you to the Psychology Program of Study page on the GSAS Admissions website. You can refer to our PRO-TiP page to find faculty answers to frequently asked questions.

Prospective applicants will want to read carefully about departmental faculty research interests   to decide whether this department is a good match. "Fit" of interests is an important criterion when the Department makes admissions decisions.

This list of theses and dissertations completed by current and previous students in the doctoral program may be useful in figuring out if this department would provide a good fit for your research goals.   

Do I need an undergraduate degree in Psychology to be eligible for the PhD program?

A psychology major is not required, but it is recommended that applicants take some basic psychology courses and obtain research experience. Admitted applicants have excellent grades, test scores, letters of recommendation, research experience and are a good match in terms of research interests with one or more members of the faculty, who serve as advisors.

Do I need to submit GRE scores, and how do I submit them?

*The submission of GRE scores is optional for Fall 2024 admission.*  GRE scores are valid for five years from the test date. If you have personal score reports available from tests taken within the last five years, you can upload them to your online application for consideration by the admissions committee. However, you will still need to ensure that  Educational Testing Service  (ETS) sends an official score report. Be sure to register for the tests well before administration dates and request that your scores be sent to Harvard University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences using code 3451 (department code is not required).

Does the Psychology Department offer a master's degree?

No, we do not offer a terminal master’s degree in psychology, though students admitted to the PhD program can earn a master’s along the way.   

How long does the program take?

Some students find four years is sufficient to complete the program, although most take five and a few take six years. Financial aid is generally offered for up to six years. 

Who may act as a PhD advisor?

Only tenure-track faculty members in the Department of Psychology may serve as primary advisors to PhD students in Psychology. Affiliated faculty cannot serve as primary mentors for PhD students. Students are welcome to form collaborations with affiliated faculty, but these individuals do not participate in our PhD program admissions.

Can I get training in clinical psychology at Harvard?

The Department offers a research-oriented program in Clinical Science. Our program was designed and is perhaps best suited for individuals who aspire toward careers in clinical scientific research and teaching. As compared with some more clinically oriented programs, we place relatively more emphasis on research training and experience in our program admissions and our training program for admitted graduate students. That said, the clinical training opportunities afforded by the program provide excellent training in clinical intervention and assessment as well. The Clinical Program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS).

Is there a part-time or distance learning option?

This is a full-time, in-person program. In unusual circumstances, the Department may grant permission for an enrolled student to temporarily register for a part-time schedule. It is required that students be in residence for at least two years in the program, and almost all students are in residence for the entire program. It is possible to receive permission to be a "traveling scholar" and do research or writing away from Cambridge, but this is most typical for students at an advanced stage of the program who have finished data collection. There is no online or distance-learning program.

Can I apply if I already have a master's degree?

Yes. Students that have completed prior graduate work can petition, after a semester of satisfactory work in the Department, to receive credit for up to eight relevant half-courses, the equivalent of a year's worth of work. However, many students in the program don't bother to apply for this credit since it is rare for a student to be exempted from any courses required by the department. In addition, the bulk of time in the doctoral program is spent on research projects, and the department very rarely exempts students from these. Even students coming in with a master's degree take between 4-6 years to complete the program, though an incoming student with more education may naturally be more focused at an earlier point in their program. By the time a student has finished all requirements for the doctorate, including research requirements, they will have many more than the required minimum number of credits.

Is there financial aid available?

Funding is in the form of grants in the early years and teaching or research fellowships in later years. Typically all admitted students are offered a funding package consisting of up to six years of full tuition, three years of living stipend, and two years of guaranteed teaching fellowships (which would provide a similar level of living support). Additional teaching is usually available in the fifth year. Both international and U.S. applicants are eligible for this financial package. Because funds are limited, applicants are urged to apply for any outside fellowships they may be eligible for.  NSF graduate fellowships  and those from the  Department of Defense  are examples of national fellowship competitions open to U.S. citizens. There are also the  Ford Foundation Fellowships , available specifically for URM scholars.  Receiving an outside fellowship may allow you to have a higher stipend, to decrease your teaching commitment or to have an additional year to complete your degree. Receiving an outside fellowship is also a professional honor that will help you in applying for jobs after graduate school.

How can I maximize my chances of being admitted?

We use a holistic approach in evaluating applicants and admitting graduate students to the program. Among the factors considered are grades from undergraduate coursework, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, application essays, prior research experience, and focused research interests, with an emphasis on those that are compatible with those of faculty members. The department is also actively committing to building an inclusive field. Part of that commitment is prioritizing diversity and support for diverse individuals within our own department.

While we do not require an undergraduate concentration in psychology, some social science coursework is recommended. Because the program is heavily quantitatively oriented, college-level math and statistics are also advised. Research experience is extremely helpful: successful applicants have often worked for professors, done research projects as part of college courses, written an undergraduate thesis, or volunteered in a psychology research lab.

Candidates’ research interests and compatibility with the program are determined in large part by the candidate's application essay, the Statement of Purpose. Here is some advice from a professor for writing a good application essay:

Over the past 12 years, I have been reading graduate school admissions’ essays. These include essays from students applying to work with me as well as those from my own students who are preparing to apply to other graduate programs. When my own students apply to graduate school, I give them very specific advice about the nature of the essay, what I think most candidate schools and advisors are looking for. I have always had a particular view about what makes for a good read , of course from a personal perspective. I have been struck by the fact that many of the incoming essays lack the kind of content that I am looking for, having the appearance of an undergraduate application essay. This seems unfortunate because I often use the essay more than almost anything else to get a sense of the applicant’s intellectual potential and passion. Many students that apply have stellar GPAs and GREs, but only a few present carefully reasoned essays that really motivate the reasons for going to graduate school. In essence, essays that capture my attention are ones that develop ideas, propose experiments, point to holes in the literature, and do these things with passion and excitement. These very general comments, which will certainly not capture every advisor’s perspective, or even the majority, can be distilled to a few essential ingredients, presented below as questions:

• Why continue on with your education? Why do you need to learn more? What skills, theories, and knowledge do you lack?
• What are the kinds of discoveries and theories that sparked your interest in the chosen discipline?
• In graduate school, what kinds of questions do you hope to address? Why do you think that these questions are important? Given the set of questions that you will focus on, what kinds of methods do you hope to apply? What skills do you bring forward as you enter graduate school and which skills do you hope to acquire?
• What holes do you see in the current discipline [big picture stuff]? In what ways do you think that they can be addressed during your graduate career?
• What kind of graduate environment are you looking for? Are you particularly keen on working with one faculty advisor, and if so, why this particular person? If you are leaning more toward a cluster of advisors, as well as the department more generally, why? Hint: faculty are engaged by students who have read some of their work, have thought critically about it, and wish to develop some of the issues addressed. Further, it helps with admissions to have one or more faculty championing your case.

Essays that have the above ingredients are truly informative. They tell each faculty member why the candidate wants to go to graduate school, what problems they hope to tackle, what skills they bring, and which skills they hope to acquire. Following this format is, of course, not a ticket of admission, but it will certainly make your application more interesting and informative.

More information from faculty in this program can be found on our PRO-TiP page .

Can I take courses without being admitted to the degree program?

The only way to take Harvard FAS courses, unless you are enrolled in another Harvard graduate program or MIT, is to be admitted as a  Special Student , which allows you to take between one and four courses a semester. Foreign national students  have  to take a full-time load in order to get a student visa. Students are issued a transcript, but no degree or certificate, for their work in the Special Student program.

Admitted Special Student applicants should be aware that the Department does not have the resources to provide the same support, academic and otherwise, to Special Students as it does to PhD students. Special Students are not assigned advisors, office space, research space, research funds, financial aid, library keys, or computer lab accounts. They are restricted from taking the Department's proseminar (PSY 2010), and other courses at the discretion of the instructor. 

Many Special Students hope eventually to enroll in a psychology graduate program; some plan to apply to Harvard's Ph.D. program. However, applicants should consider the Special Student year an opportunity to take courses, rather than a way to get an early start on the PhD program. While Special Students are certainly eligible to apply, potential applicants should be aware that admission as a Special Student does not guarantee admission to the PhD program. Special Students who are later admitted to the doctoral program receive credit for appropriate graduate-level courses taken during the Special Student term(s).

• Resources for Applicants

Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program Guide

Maura Deering

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated April 17, 2024 · 5 Min Read

Courtnee James

Contributing Editor

Reviewed by

Megan Pietrucha

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

What does a clinical psychologist do? Should you enroll in a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. program? Do you need a license to practice?

Explore this guide for answers to these questions and to learn about the benefits of earning a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. We cover common curricula, the advantages of American Psychological Association (APA) accreditation, and potential career paths.

Earning a Ph.D. vs. a Psy.D.

Two types of doctorates in clinical psychology can prepare you for careers and licensure as a clinical psychologist: a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) and a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). The differences between the two degrees include academic focus, length of time to completion, and admission criteria.

Ph.D. programs typically prepare students for teaching and research positions in clinical psychology, while Psy.D. options train students for counseling practice. Ph.D. programs take 5-8 years to complete and require a dissertation, while. Psy.D. programs can take 4-6 years, including internships and a dissertation.

Admission tends to be more competitive for Ph.D.s and often requires a higher GPA.

Degree Snapshot

• Typical Admission Requirements: A master's degree in psychology or a related field; an admission essay; letters of recommendation; 2.7-3.0 GPA (Psy.D.) or 3.0-3.5 GPA (Ph.D.); GRE scores
• Time to Completion: 4-8 years
• Common Courses/Subjects: For Ph.D.s: psychology of personality, psychological tests and measures, and qualitative and quantitative research methods; for Psy.D.s: advanced psychotherapy, lifespan development, and personality assessment

Online Psychology PhD Programs

Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.

Why Get a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?

State licensure, high salaries, career stability, meaningful work, example clinical psychology ph.d. program courses.

A doctorate in clinical psychology program offers coursework that prepares graduates for clinical practice or teaching and research, depending on whether they pursue a Psy.D. or a Ph.D.

Psy.D. curricula focus on individual and group behavior, assessment and evaluation, and professional practice ethics and standards. Ph.D. courses cover topics, such as applied research, fundamentals of psychology, and statistics.

Core courses common in both types of degree programs may include cognitive foundations, psychobiological foundations, and foundations of human development.

Psy.D. courses include:

• Advanced Psychotherapy: Topics include advanced counseling theories; assessment and treatment planning for individuals, families, and groups; categories of mental health disorders; clinical interventions; psychopathology; and therapeutic relationships.
• Personality Assessment: Students learn to administer personality assessments; examine appropriate applications in terms of language, gender, and cultural bias; score and interpret results; and prepare clinical reports.

Ph.D. courses include:

• Psychology of Personality: This course offers an introduction to the applications, issues, methods, research, and theories of personality psychology, along with the role of culture in personality processes.
• Psychological Tests and Measures: With the goal of understanding the methods and theories of psychological testing, students practice writing essays and objective questions for achievement, aptitude, intelligence, and personality tests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clinical Psychologists

What is the difference between a psychologist and a clinical psychologist.

Clinical psychology is a specialization area within the broad field of psychology. While many areas of psychology practice require a master's degree, clinical psychologists typically need a doctorate.

What's the difference between a psychiatrist and a clinical psychologist?

Psychiatrists earn a doctor of medicine, while clinical psychologists obtain a psychology doctoral degree. Both treat patients for mental health disorders with therapy, but psychiatrists also use medication and medical interventions.

What is the best degree for clinical psychology?

If you want to practice clinical psychology and work directly with patients, a Psy.D. may be your best choice. Psy.D.s generally take less time to complete than academia-focused Ph.D.s.

How long does it take to earn a doctorate in clinical psychology?

Ph.D. programs can take 5-8 years to finish, including residencies and dissertations, while Psy.D. students usually complete their coursework, internships, and a thesis in 4-6 years.

Are clinical psychology degrees offered online?

Yes, you can find online and hybrid Psy.D.s and Ph.D.s with in-person practicums and internships . Many state licensure boards require degrees from APA-accredited programs , and the APA does not accredit fully online programs.

Do all clinical psychologists need a license?

Clinical psychologists who want to diagnose and treat patients independently need a license.

What Can You Do with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?

Graduates of clinical psychology doctorate programs can become licensed clinical psychologists working directly with clients or seek employment in workplaces that may not require a license, such as clinics, correctional facilities, group practices, hospitals, and schools. Licensed clinical psychologists can open their own independent practices.

Universities employ clinical psychology Ph.D.s as professors and researchers. Private and government laboratories also hire researchers.

Clinical psychologists can also specialize in areas like forensic psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and school psychology. They can also focus on a population, such as children, families, or the LGBTQ+ community.

Career Advancement

Becoming a clinical psychologist can advance your career to the top of the profession. A Ph.D. or a Psy.D. qualifies you to become licensed. Professional organizations offer networking, certification, and continuing education resources.

Each state has its own licensure board with requirements for becoming a licensed clinical psychologist. Typical requirements include a doctorate in clinical psychology from a regionally accredited school and an APA-accredited program.

Candidates must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and log 1,500-6,000 supervised post-doctorate clinical experience hours.

Professional Organizations

• American Academy of Clinical Psychology : AACP members can network at an annual conference, publish in its journal, and earn free continuing education credits.
• American Board of Professional Psychology : The ABPP provides board certification in clinical psychology.
• American Psychological Association : The APA offers free continuing education credits, science training sessions, and networking opportunities, including a clinical psychology division .

Take the Next Steps

Hopefully, this guide has answered many of your questions about clinical psychology doctorates . Take the next step and start researching programs .

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How Long Does It Take To Get a PhD in Psychology?

Key Takeaways

• It typically takes between four to seven years for full time students to get a PhD degree in psychology.
• It takes part-time students five to seven years to complete a PhD program in psychology.
• The length of a PhD program varies based on program prerequisites, the type of degree, and whether you attend part or full-time or online or on-campus.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only 1.2% of the population have doctoral degrees. The reason? The daunting length of a PhD degree. However, that does not have to be the case for everyone. A PhD in psychology typically depends on the student’s program, education, and schedule. Knowing more about the process can help you plan your studies and career.

A PhD in psychology can brighten your career prospects and direct you toward higher-paying and rewarding career opportunities. To help you get there, we have done research on how long it takes to get a PhD in psychology.

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

The time it takes to get a doctorate in psychology varies. It depends on factors like the degree type, your education, and your specific program. Typically, these programs last between four to seven years. Let’s explore how long your PhD degree will take according to your degree type.

PhD in Psychology

PhD programs usually take five to seven years  to finish. They often combine research and clinical training, following a scientist-practitioner model.

Moreover, you might need to do an internship or supervised residency alongside classes. The program typically ends with a big research project or dissertation.

PsyD Degree

PsyD programs generally take four to six years to finish. They aim to teach professionals how to use psychological knowledge to help treat people in real-life situations.

According to the American Psychological Association, PsyD programs focus more on applying psychological science through services.

EdD programs typically span three to five years, focusing on psychology, counseling, or counselor education. They integrate education and psychology themes.

Unlike PhD and PsyD applicants, who often start with a bachelor’s degree, many EdD candidates already possess a related psychology master’s degree . This distinction underscores the varied entry points into doctoral studies. Moreover, it reflects the specialized nature of EdD programs in preparing professionals for roles in education and psychology.

What is the duration of a PhD in psychology for part-time students?

You can earn a PhD in psychology while being a part-time student, says the  American Psychology Association . Both full and part-time students have the same program requirements, part-time students might take five to seven years to finish.

Not all schools accept part-time students, so check with your chosen schools first. Doing the required internship might be tough for part-time students. Part-time internships are less available compared to full-time ones.

The Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers offers hundreds of internships, only 17 are for part-time students.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a PhD Program in Psychology

It’s always good to ensure you don’t sign up for a degree that takes longer than you thought. So, before picking a PhD program in Psychology, consider a few things related to how long it takes, such as:

• Program Rules:  Check what each program needs—like classes, research, and your dissertation. This helps you understand how much time you’ll spend.
• Program Setup:  See if the program is flexible with class schedules and research options that fit what you want to do.
• Teacher Support:  Look into how much help teachers give. Their guidance can make a big difference in how quickly you finish.
• Money Help:  Check if there are ways to get money, like scholarships or assistant jobs. This can ease financial stress and let you focus on studying.
• Research Focus:  Think about what the program likes to study. This can affect how long your degree takes.
• Internship Needs:  Check if the program needs you to do internships. This might change how long you’re in school.
• Success Rates:  Find out how many students finish the program and how long it takes. It gives you an idea of how long you might take.

Which Type of Degree Should You Get?

A doctorate is required to work in certain fields, like licensed clinical or counseling psychology . The American Psychological Association says you often need a doctorate for school psychology or health psychology, too.

While the PhD, PsyD, and EdD are good choices, don’t focus solely on how long they take to finish. Before committing to a doctorate, consider which degree aligns best with your career goals.

Here are some degrees and their objectives to help you understand which program best fits your career preferences.

Conducting Research

A PhD in Psychology is focused on a research-based education model. So, anyone with a PhD in Psychology offers many career choices. For instance, you can go for research, academia, and clinical positions in colleges, government offices, hospitals, and private mental health clinics.

Treating Mental Health Issues

The general focus of a PsyD degree is on a practitioner-based education model. So, individuals who earn a PsyD degree have the choice to teach or conduct research in psychology. Their main job is to offer direct mental health care in applied settings.

Applying Psychology to Help Students

Finally, you can consider a third doctorate option, the EdD or Doctor of Education. This degree is ideal for those interested in school psychology or related educational psychology fields .

Despite the time commitment, obtaining a PhD, PsyD, or EdD can be highly rewarding. According to the  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , individuals with a doctoral or education specialist degree in clinical, counseling, and school psychology will have the most solid job opportunities.

Can you finish your degree early?

Generally, if your background in psychology is strong and you have finished all of the required prerequisites, you might complete your doctorate sooner. You will be ahead of those who haven’t taken those prerequisite courses.

Planning your degree well also helps you finish the program quickly. So, ensure you have a clear plan for what you want to do with your psychology degree after you’re done. You can teach, research, work with clients, or combine psychology with law or medicine.

If you’re unsure, talk to an advisor at your school. They can guide you, answer your questions, and help you decide what’s best for you.

Student Submitted Questions About PhD’s in Psychology

How hard is it to get a phd in psychology.

Obtaining an accelerated PhD in psychology  demands significant dedication and effort. Graduate students must tackle coursework, pass exams, undergo extensive internships, and conduct experimental dissertation studies. The process entails substantial commitment and perseverance, emphasizing the rigorous nature of doctoral studies in psychology.

Do you need a master’s to get a PhD in psychology?

No, a Master’s degree is not typically required to obtain a PhD in Psychology. Instead, you can apply to universities offering doctoral programs after completing a psychology bachelor’s degree . There are different types of postgraduate degrees in Psychology, such as PhD, PsyD, and EdD, each with its focus and requirements.

How much does a psychologist make?

PhD holders in Psychology can pursue diverse careers in schools, hospitals, and mental health facilities. Examples include Psychologist ($85,330), Counseling and School Psychologist ($ 81,500), and Psychology Professor ($78,810).

Earning a PhD in psychology involves years of study, typically taking three to seven years. If you’re considering a career as a psychologist, research the different program options and the time it takes to complete them.

Regardless of your choice, be prepared for a significant commitment to graduate school to complete your doctorate.

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The clinical program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System.

Your program will typically be fully funded for five years thanks to stipend grant support and guaranteed teaching fellowships. Tuition support is also available for a six-year program. Funding is also available for research, travel, and conferences. You will have access to the latest technology at FAS Research Computing and the Neuroimaging Facility at the Center for Brain Science.

Examples of student dissertations and theses include “Childhood Anxiety Disorders: Developmental Risk Factors and Predictors of Treatment Response,” “Clarifying the Pathway to Suicide: An Examination of Subtypes of Suicidal Behavior and Their Association with Impulsiveness,” and “A Cognitive Neuroscience of Social Groups.”

Graduates have secured positions in academia at prestigious institutions such as Princeton University, Dartmouth College, and Columbia University. Others have embarked on careers with companies such as Facebook, BetterUp, and Apple.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Psychology and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Areas of Study

Cognition, Brain, and Behavior | Experimental Psychopathology and Clinical | Developmental | Social Psychology

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Psychology .

Academic Background

While an undergraduate concentration in psychology is not required, some social science coursework is recommended. Because the program is heavily quantitatively oriented, college-level math and statistics are also advised. Research experience is extremely helpful; successful applicants have often worked for professors, done research projects as part of college courses, written an undergraduate thesis, or volunteered in a psychology research lab.

Please Note: Before making the decision to apply, the program in Psychology suggests checking individual faculty/lab websites or emailing faculty directly to inquire whether they plan to consider applicants for Fall 2024 admission. It’s important to note that while individual faculty members may have every intention of bringing in a new student this year, we cannot guarantee that they will all be able to do so. The total number of offers of admission to be extended by the graduate program is based on applicant preparedness and fit, availability of university advising and support resources, and target class size. Some of these factors are not able to be determined until after the applicant pool has been finalized.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Optional

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Psychology

See list of Psychology faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

PhD in Clinical Psychology

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Program Overview

Please see also:

• Clinical Doctoral Student Handbook (PDF)
• Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data

Licensure Information

Please see details at  Consumer Disclosure Information .

The clinical psychology doctoral program at American University aims to prepare students for licensure in many states. Graduating from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited institution with a doctoral degree is often one of the main requirements for licensure in most states, and our program has been fully and continuously accredited by the APA since 1972. However, most states have other requirements for licensure (e.g., predoctoral internship, postdoctoral fellowship, particular scores on the EPPP licensing exam). This disclosure focuses solely on predoctoral courses needed to qualify for licensure as a psychologist. Graduates of AU’s clinical psychology program have successfully obtained licensure in many states.

The Clinical Psychology PhD program is committed to educating students in clinical science with rigorous training in both research and applied clinical work. Our program will provide you with the skills you need for a successful career in academia, research, or clinical practice. Fully accredited by the American Psychological Association Committee on Accreditation since 1972, our doctoral program reflects the scientist-practitioner model of training.

Excellence in research and clinical training

The 72-credit PhD program is designed to provide students with a rigorous classroom education, innovative research opportunities, and exciting and diverse clinical experiences. With faculty guidance and mentorship, students complete a master's thesis, a doctoral dissertation, and one tool of research. Students engage in three year-long practicum experiences. In the first year, students learn humanistic and psychodynamic techniques in the American University Counseling Center. In year two, students learn and practice cognitive behavioral techniques in the department's James J. Gray Psychotherapy Training Clinic. For the third practicum, students choose between an advanced CBT practicum with adults or with children. Additionally, students complete multiple externships in DC area hospitals, mental health centers, and counseling centers and a one-year internship.

This program takes five to six years of full-time study to complete. Part-time study is not available. See all degree requirements .

At AU, a mentorship model of training will allow you to work closely with a research supervisor throughout the program. You and this faculty mentor will collaborate on research projects and design your master's thesis and dissertation project. Our faculty members maintain productive research labs and mentor graduate students in research design and methodology. Faculty research interests include affective and motivational processes in depression, anxiety disorders (in children and adults), stress and emotion regulation, parenting, minority mental health, trichotillomania, cognitive assessment and therapy, smoking, borderline personality disorder, drug expectancies, treatment outcomes, and human services program evaluation. Faculty research programs offer a mix of applied and basic research opportunities.

Diverse Opportunities In The Nation's Capital

Home to numerous world-class research and clinical institutions, the DC area offers access to an extraordinary array of professional and intellectual opportunities. The clinical program at AU has fostered connections at a wide range of externship sites including the DC and Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, National Institute of Health, Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital, National Children’s Medical Center, private practices, and college counseling centers at nearby universities. Many of our students make lasting connections in the DC area, and are well positioned to find post-doctoral employment in or around the city. There is a rich diversity in DC, so students work with individuals and families from many different backgrounds.

The PhD is your path to career success

At AU, we have a record of placing our clinical psychology PhDs in successful careers at respected institutions. Our students graduate fully prepared for careers in academia, research, and clinical settings. For example, graduates of our program hold tenure-track positions at St. John's University, Williams College, LaFayette College, the University of Cincinnati, and Goucher College.

We are proud of the research and clinical accomplishments of our students and alumni. AU PhDs have conducted research in prominent departments of psychiatry, including Brown University, Ohio State University, and the University of Virginia. Our alumni work in a variety of clinical settings in the DC area and across the country, including Johns Hopkins University, the National Institutes of Health, the New York Presbyterian-University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell, Chestnut Health System of Illinois, Children's National Medical Center, and the District of Columbia VA Medical Center.

News & Notes

• Alice Coyne  was named the 2024 recipient of the  Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy Early Career Award  in recognition of “accomplishment and achievement related to psychotherapy theory, practice, research, or training.”

AU’s Gray Psychotherapy Training Clinic Offers Low-Fee Psychotherapy

To the Point: The Fentanyl Crisis, Why Now, Why So Deadly?

More news & notes.

• Dr. Alice Coyne , Assistant Professor of Psychology, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy Early Career Award in recognition of “accomplishment and achievement related to psychotherapy theory, practice, research, or training”

Alum Spotlight

Martha falkenstein, cas/phd '16.

Clinical Psychology

I benefitted from being encouraged to pursue my goals — and work/life balance.

Mentored by Dr. David Haaga on treatment development and outcomes for trichotillomania, Martha externed at the DC VA, NIMH Psychiatry Consultation-Liason Service, the Behavior Therapy Center, and Johns Hopkins Medical Center. After a Southwest Consortium Doctoral Internship and post-doc at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, she now serves as Director of Research at the OCD Institute, supported by an NIMH Career Development Award. 

“I benefitted from being encouraged to pursue my goals — and work/life balance.”

Diana cox, cas/phd candidate.

AU’s quality of education prepared me well for the challenges of clinical work

Diana Cox’s research focuses on how experiences of stress affect physical and mental health outcomes, particularly in LGBTQ+ populations. As a member of the Stress and Emotion Lab, she has had the opportunity to design her own research studies and collaborate with other students on lab projects. She refined her clinical skills through externships at the Washington DC VA Medical Center, Neuropsychology Associates of Fairfax, and True North Therapy.

“AU’s quality of education prepared me well for the challenges of clinical work”

Please send me information about clinical psychology.

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You may also enjoy

• PhD in General Psychology
• PsyD vs. PhD
• PsyD in General Psychology
• Specialist Level Psychology Degrees

Earning your doctorate in psychology (Types & requirements)

Key facts about doctorate degrees in psychology

Degree type:, total credits:, aid eligible:.

Psychologists are highly trained mental health professionals that help people identify and cope with various mental health and behavioral challenges. The American Psychological Association (APA) estimates that there are about 106,000 practicing psychologists in the United States.

Most of these psychologists have a doctorate degree in psychology. With as many branches and specializations in psychology as there are, it’s no wonder that there are several different kinds of doctoral degrees in psychology out there. There are three main types:

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology :  The most common type of doctoral level program in psychology in which students generate new knowledge through research and/or teaching in academia.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD):  Another doctoral degree in psychology that is similar to a PhD but with a few differences , primarily that students are focused more on real-world applications rather than research or teaching.

Doctor of Education (EdD) in Psychology:  A doctoral degree awarded by a school’s department or college of education. An EdD in psychology studies the intersection of the fields of education and psychology.

Who are doctoral degrees in psychology for?

At their most basic level, doctoral degrees are meant most often for people who want to become licensed psychologists . Psychologists must be licensed, and although licensing requirements vary by state,  most states require that you hold a doctoral degree in psychology to qualify .

The question of which specific degree is intended for whom depends on someone’s particular career goals. PhD degree programs, for example, focus more on research and teaching in academia. Therefore, these degrees may be better suited for people who want to conduct studies to make new discoveries in the field or who want to teach.

Since PsyD programs prepare students to apply their knowledge out in the world, these programs may be best for those who want to actually practice psychology in a clinical, forensic or some other capacity. EdD degrees explore the fields of psychology and education in tandem and therefore may be best for professionals who want to work as school psychologists or in education.

Even with their general differences, it’s important to thoroughly research individual programs to find out more about what you’ll learn and who they’re for. Their general distinctions are not absolute —plenty of practicing psychologists have PhD or EdD degrees, for example, and students in PsyD programs still conduct some research, too. After all, not all doctoral programs are created uniformly.

How much do people with a doctorate degree in psychology make?

If you examine the salaries of psychologists, you can get a pretty accurate idea of how much money people with doctoral degrees in psychology make. That’s because you need a doctoral degree to practice psychology in most places.

According to the 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for clinical and counseling psychologists is $96,100. The lowest 10% of this category earn $48,820, and the highest 10% can earn $168,870.

These psychologists only make up about one-third of the overall workforce of psychologists, which also includes school psychologists , industrial-organizational psychologists and a miscellaneous category called “Psychologists, all other.” School psychologists have a lower median annual wage, while industrial-organizational psychologists and psychologists in the “all other” category have higher median annual wages.

Is a doctorate degree in psychology right for you?

Determining if a doctorate degree in psychology is right for you comes down to your particular career intentions . The same can be said when trying to determine which type of doctoral degree is best for you. Consider the following:

• Do you want to be a psychologist?
• Do you want to work in a clinical mental health role?
• Do you want to teach at the collegiate level and/or work in academia?
• Do you want to conduct research in the field of psychology?

If you can answer  yes  to any of these questions, you may want to consider earning a doctoral degree in psychology.

Is a doctorate in psychology worth it?

If you intend to work as a licensed psychologist in any capacity, a doctoral degree is not only worth it but quite likely a necessity . That’s because most states require psychologists to have a doctoral degree in order to qualify for licensure.

If being a practicing psychologist is not your intention, however, there are still merits to a earning a doctoral degree that are worth considering. EdD degrees, for example, can also be an excellent degree for someone who wants to work at a high level in the field of education, either as an administrator and leader of policy change or as a professor at the college level.

A doctoral degree in psychology can also be a way for other professionals such as counselors, therapists or even social workers to simply expand their knowledge and skills and go above and beyond as a mental health professional.

How to pick the right program for you

Choosing the doctorate program that’s right for you comes down to several factors. These are a starting point to help narrow in on the kinds of programs you might seriously consider. It may also be worthwhile to chat with academic advisers for specific programs who can give you guidance on whether their program is best for you. 

Accreditation

At minimum, any school and program you attend  must be accredited  by an appropriate accrediting body. In addition, the American Psychological Association (APA) accredits doctoral programs in psychology. Although it’s not always required for licensure,  programs accredited by the APA  can make obtaining a psychologist license easier.

Professional goals

Do you want to be a practicing psychologist? Which populations might you want to work with? Do you want to participate in research and breaking new ground? Do you want to be a postsecondary teacher? Do you want to work in schools? These kinds of questions may help you decide which type of doctoral degree—PhD, PsyD or EdD—is best for you.

A doctoral program can be a hefty financial investment. You’ll need to figure out how much you can afford to pay for your education to determine which programs are financially feasible for you. Luckily, there are numerous financial aid resources out there for doctoral students to fund their education. 

Learning format

Doctoral degrees in psychology are offered in-person, online or in a hybrid learning format . If you desire more flexibility to study from home, a hybrid or online program may be better for you. If you thrive with more face-to-face interactions with your instructors and peers, a traditional in-person program may be more your style. If the program is accredited by the APA, it does not matter from a professional standpoint whether that program was online, in-person or both.

Keep in mind that even online programs require an in-person internship at some point.

Internship requirements

Doctoral programs in psychology always include some kind of internship, fieldwork, practicum or other supervised experience(s) as part of their curriculum. What that experience consists of can vary program to program, but it allows students to apply their knowledge in real world settings under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. These can last a year or more and are typically several thousands of hours.

What if your bachelor’s or master’s isn’t in psychology?

Not all doctoral psychology programs require that you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology specifically. Although this certainly can make admission easier, these programs may simply require that you’ve completed a certain amount of relevant coursework in psychology to be considered for admission.

Academic requirements before embarking on a doctorate in psychology

Although each program’s  admission requirements can vary , you can generally expect a doctorate degree in psychology to require the following in order to apply:  

Earning your doctoral degree in psychology

What it takes to complete this degree.

Number of required credits:  This varies between programs, but most doctoral programs in psychology require between 90-140 credits to graduate. Some programs may allow you to transfer/apply credits from another doctoral degree that you’ve started elsewhere. If you already have a master’s degree in psychology, some programs may allow you to have advanced entry into their doctoral program, meaning you don’t have to take some of the classes you normally would at the beginning of the program and so you get a “head start” on your degree. 

Typical length of program:  Doctoral programs usually take between four and eight years to complete. The number of credits required by the program, their internship requirements and whether you already have advanced entry into a program can all affect the length of the program. 

Culminating project:  Doctoral psychology programs require one or more culminating project(s), typically in the form of a research paper, thesis and/or dissertation. This project is usually presented and submitted for publication. It is usually completed near the end of the degree program but prior to the doctoral internship.

Internships and practicums:  Practicum and internship experiences are an essential part of doctoral psychology programs. These are both real-world, supervised experiences where the student practices their skills directly with clients. The practicum is typically completed first, and students are usually in a more passive role observing other professionals. The internship is often the final part of the doctoral psychology degree and is a full-time role which takes several thousands of hours to complete. Students have more agency and responsibility to put their skills to the test, whether that be in a school, mental health clinic, hospital or other setting, depending on the student’s specialization and career interests.

What you’ll study

Every school’s curriculum is going to be slightly unique, especially when you consider the different types of doctoral degrees in psych as well as any concentrations you may choose to study.  As described in the  APA’s policies on accreditation , these are the four domains of discipline-specific knowledge that students are meant to gain from an accredited doctoral psychology program:

Can I get my doctorate in psychology online?

Yes, many schools offer  doctorate degrees online . Keep in mind, however, that most doctoral programs require field-based experience to graduate. This typically means you must work on-site directly with others, so you can’t complete a doctorate degree in psychology entirely from your own home. 

State requirements for licensure and certification

Psychologists must be licensed in every state to practice, but the  requirements for licensure differ from state to state . In most places, a doctoral degree in psychology is considered the minimum education level needed to qualify for licensure.

In addition to education, most states require prospective psychologists to have several thousand hours of supervised experience and pass an exam to earn their license.

What can you do with a doctorate in psychology?

Most psychology degrees offer the chance to specialize in a certain area of practice. A specialization or concentration allows you to learn the specific knowledge and skills pertaining to a particular psychological domain. In some cases, this may be necessary to get a particular psychologist license.  

Abnormal psychology

Abnormal psychology focuses on psychological abnormalities and dysfunctional behaviors. Classes cover the causes, possible diagnoses, treatments and tools available for patients.

Example Careers:  Clinical psychologist, psychiatric technician, mental health counselor

Clinical psychology

Clinical psychology  examines a wide range of mental and behavioral health issues. Classes in a clinical psychology degree teach students how to diagnose and treat these issues in a clinical mental health setting.

Example careers:  Clinical psychologist,   neuropsychologist, pediatric psychologist, behavioral medicine specialist

Developmental psychology

Developmental psychology  covers the changes in human development over the lifespan. You’ll study the various physical, cognitive, social, personality and emotional changes that occur at all ages in a developmental psychology degree.

Example careers:  Developmental psychologist, research professor, child and adolescent psychologist

Educational psychology

This branch of psychology studies the cognitive process of learning itself and how learning occurs on a large scale—for example, by analyzing the academic performance of an entire school, district or community.

Example careers:  Educational psychologist, school superintendent, teaching and learning specialist

Forensic psychology

In a  forensic psychology degree , you’ll study how psychology and the legal system intersect. In addition to advanced topics in psychology, you’ll take criminal justice courses and learn how forensic psychologists help address legal concerns in civil or criminal proceedings.

Example careers:  Forensic psychologist,   criminal psychologist

Health psychology

Health psychology takes a finer look at how behavior impacts our physical health, how patients handle illness, how people can foster healthier habits and more. Health psychologists are essential in many clinical settings and as researchers.

Example careers:  Health psychologist, social worker, human services manager, research professor

Industrial-organizational (I/O) psychology

Industrial-organizational psychology  studies the application of psychological principles to the workplace. Degrees in this area include courses about assessment and training, performance evaluation and feedback, motivation and more.

Example careers:  Industrial-organizational psychologist, human resources director, career counselor

Neuropsychology

Neuropsychology  is the study of behavior, emotion and cognition and their relationship to the brain, especially when a brain injury, disease or disability come into play. Classes teach students how to assess and treat patients with various neurological conditions.

Example careers:  Neuropsychologist, rehabilitation counselor, research professor

Psychology professor

Being a psychology professor is not an academic concentration, but teaching itself can be a personal focus in your professional life. A doctoral degree in psychology allows you to teach at the postsecondary level.

Example careers:  Psychology professor, department chair, dean, lecturer

Research psychology

Research psychology is also not an actual named specialty, but you can choose to focus on research as a psychologist if you want to generate new knowledge in the field by conducting studies, writing research papers and more.

Example careers:  Research professor, research coordinator

School psychology

In studying  school psychology , you learn how to support the mental and behavioral health challenges in students as it pertains to their development, both academic and otherwise. Some example topics you’ll learn in classes include family-school collaborative service, diversity in development and learning, school-wide practices to promote learning and more.  

Example careers:  School psychologist, school counselor, academic counselor

Sports psychology

Sports psychologists  study the psychological effects of sport on athletes as well as how to help them psychologically prepare for competition. You’ll take courses on exercise and health psychology, counseling athletes, psychological aspects of sports injuries and more.

Example careers:  Sports psychologist, athletic trainer, rehabilitation counselor, sports nutritionist, coach

The journey to earning a psychology doctorate

Before you can even begin to apply for a doctoral degree program in psychology, you need a solid baccalaureate education under your belt. Ideally your bachelor’s degree should be in psychology or a closely related field, otherwise you may have to take additional classes to satisfy the prerequisites for a doctoral program. You’ll also need to determine how to finance your education—luckily, doctoral programs have a lot of options to make your degree affordable.

Financial aid, scholarships and other resources

The APA has compiled an exhaustive collection of resources  on  how to pay for your graduate education . Some of these resources include how to calculate the cost of graduate school, how and where to find  federal aid, grants, scholarships and other funding sources , how to repay your loans and other financial wellness tools to help you create and stick to a budget.

Degrees below a doctorate in psychology

Associate degrees.

Time to complete: About two years

Sample jobs: Social and human service assistant, community health worker, psychiatric aide 

An  associate degree in psychology  can be a great first step on the way to earning a bachelor’s degree, but it can also prepare you for numerous jobs on its own. In an associate degree program, you’ll learn the foundational concepts and history of psychology. This can pave the way for many entry-level social service positions that don’t require a license to practice.

Median annual salary for social and human service assistants: $38,520

Bachelor’s degrees

Time to complete: About four years

Sample jobs: Social and community service manager, human resources specialist or manager, health educator, career counselor

With psychology being so applicable to numerous fields and industries, the career possibilities are practically endless for a  bachelor’s degree in psychology . A bachelor’s degree is also necessary if you wish to pursue a graduate degree later on. These degrees cover the basics of psychology and allow you to take elective classes to learn about special topics. In a bachelor’s degree, you are also expected to take a wide range of courses in different subjects. 

Median annual salary for social and community service managers: $74,240

Master’s degrees

Time to complete: Two to three years

Sample jobs: Marriage and family therapist , mental health counselor, substance abuse counselor , social worker

Master’s degrees in psychology , such as ones that have a focus on mental health counseling, are often necessary to become a therapist or other licensed mental health professional. They explore more advanced psychological subjects and usually include a research project or paper. They often also include a practicum or internship completed in a real-world setting.

Median annual salary for marriage and family therapists: $56,570

Related doctoral-level degrees

If you’re still not sure if a doctoral degree in psychology is what you need for your particular career goals, consider these other doctoral degrees that may be tailored more for the types of roles you wish to hold.

Doctorate in counseling

A  doctorate degree in counseling  and a doctorate degree in psychology have a lot of overlap. In fact, it may be difficult to distinguish much of a difference just by looking at their curriculums. To make matters even more complicated, there are also doctorate degrees in counseling psychology.

So, what’s the difference? For one, doctoral psychology programs are accredited by the APA, whereas counseling programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) . Psychology programs tend to have a broader curricular focus that can be applied to numerous specialties within psychology.

Counseling programs, however, focus on the counseling experience and preparing students to become advanced mental health practitioners. From a licensure standpoint, psychology programs make more sense if you want to be a licensed psychologist. That being said, you may still earn your psychology license with a CACREP accredited degree, but your education may require more scrutiny from the licensing boards.

Doctorate in human services

Doctorate degrees in human services  are all about addressing peoples’ fundamental needs on a community, society and global level. They prepare students for leadership roles in nonprofit organizations or health and social services. This differs from doctorate degrees in psychology which, when compared to human services degrees, look more closely at the individual’s psyche.

Doctorate in social work

Psychologists and social workers are both highly trained mental health professionals. There may be a lot of overlap in what they know, but they are educated differently. Social workers place an emphasis on connecting clients with a range of health and social services to address a client’s circumstances more holistically. To become a social worker in most states, you need at least a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.

A  Doctor of Social Work (DSW)  or PhD in social work are meant for social workers who want to devote themselves to research in the field, teach in academia, work in leadership positions or work on public policy change. For the sake of licensure, degrees in psychology and social work cannot be used to obtain a license in the opposing field. 

Professional associations to join along the way

Joining a professional association provides members with a host of benefits to help develop their professional identity. Although becoming a member at these organizations is not mandatory, the payoff can be substantial. Benefits often include free trainings and continuing education classes, networking opportunities, discounts, liability insurance, access to scientific journals and more. You may want to consider joining any one of these organizations at some point in your professional journey: 

• American Psychological Association (APA)
• Association for Psychological Science (APS)
• Society for Personality and Social Psychology (SPSP)
• Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP)
• National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
• International Association for Correctional and Forensic Psychologists (IACFP)

Ready to get started?

Getting a doctorate degree in psychology can be a huge undertaking, but it’s one that could pay off enormously in your professional life and propel you into a rewarding career as a psychologist.

You don’t necessarily need multiple degrees in psychology to get started, either—many programs simply require that you’ve completed a certain number of college courses in psychology to qualify. Start by researching programs today and determining which factors are most important to you, such as internship experiences, curriculum, concentrations and more.

Written and reported by:

Kendall Upton

Staff Writer

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How Long Does It Take To Get a PhD?

A PhD program typically takes four to seven years, but a variety of factors can impact that timeline.

A PhD , or doctorate degree , is the highest degree you can earn in certain disciplines, such as psychology, engineering, education, and mathematics. As a result, it often takes longer to earn than it does for a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

While many PhD programs are designed to be finished in four or five years, the average completion time is much longer when you factor in the time it takes to research and write a dissertation. In 2020, for example, doctoral students took between six and twelve years to complete their PhDs [ 1 ]. By comparison, you can complete a master's degree in one to three years.

In this article, we'll explore the requirements of a PhD, what often ends up adding to the length of time, and important factors you should consider when deciding whether it’s the right choice for you.

PhD requirements + general timeline

Doctoral programs typically require PhD candidates to take take advanced courses, pass a comprehensive exam (sometimes called "comps"), and produce an original body of research, such as a dissertation, to obtain the degree. In some cases, you may also be expected to fulfill a teaching assistantship or research assistantship, both of which are meant to prepare you for a career in academia or research.

PhD requirements

The precise requirements you'll need to complete in order to get your PhD vary from one program to another, but some common tasks include:

Advanced coursework: Graduate-level coursework that explores a number of advanced sub-topics related to your field

Comprehensive exam: An exam that requires you to show knowledge of your field, such as its history, important figures, major theories or research, and more

Dissertation: An original body of research you contribute to your field

PhD timeline

The specifics of a PhD program vary by college and university, but the following estimates give you an idea of what to expect during your time in graduate school:

Year 1: Complete advanced coursework.

Year 2: Complete advanced coursework and begin preparing for your comprehensive exams.

Year 3: Study, take, and defend your comprehensive exams. Begin researching your dissertation proposal.

Year 4: Submit your dissertation proposal to your committee chair, and, once approved, begin working on your dissertation.

Year 5: Finish writing your dissertation and submit for committee approval. Defend your dissertation and apply for graduation.

Note that while this timeline gives a general timeline of how long it will take to complete a PhD program, it's very common for candidates to take more than one year to research and compose their dissertation.

Read more: Should You Go Back to School? 7 Things to Consider

PhD timelines by focus

Some PhD programs take longer to complete than others. For example, earning a doctorate in a science and engineering field typically takes less time than earning a doctorate in the arts or humanities, according to data from the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) [ 1 ]. The list below shows the median length of time it took doctorate students to earn their degree in 2020:

Physical and Earth Sciences: 6.3 

Engineering: 6.8 years

Life sciences: 6.9 years

Mathematics and computer science: 7 years

Psychology and Social Sciences: 7.9 years

Humanities and arts: 9.6 years

Education: 12 years

Learn more: What Is a Terminal Degree and Do I Need One?

Why does it take so long to complete a PhD?

There are a few reasons why it takes more time to complete a PhD compared to other advanced degrees.

1. Dissertations

Once a doctoral student has successfully passed their comps, they are considered “All But Dissertation” or “ABD.” Yet, the number of students who successfully complete their PhD program remains low—estimates show that nearly 50 percent of students drop out, often after reaching the dissertation phase [ 2 ].

The dissertation phase can often take much longer to complete than the other requirements of a PhD. Researching and writing a dissertation takes significant time because students are expected to make an original and notable contribution to their field.

2. Assistantship obligations

Teaching and research assistantships are beneficial because they can help pay for a PhD program, but they may also take time away from working on your dissertation. Some students are expected to teach at least one class per semester on top of their other obligations as graduate students.

For universities that reduce the teaching or research load that students have as part of their assistantship, times to completion tend to improve. Humanities students at Princeton University began finishing their degree in 6.4 years (compared to 7.5 years) thanks to the institution's financial support and the reduced number of classes students taught [ 3 ].

3. Other responsibilities

Doctoral students tend to be older. Graduate students pursuing a PhD in science or engineering were an average of 31.6 years old by the time they earned their degree in 2016, according to the National Science Foundation [ 4 ]. In effect, some PhD students may have competing obligations, such as family. If a student’s funding has run out, and they have to find full-time work, it also may affect the time they can dedicate to writing their dissertation.

Is a PhD right for you?

People pursue PhDs for various reasons: Some want a job that requires the degree, such as teaching at a university, while others want the challenges or intellectual engagement that a graduate program offers. Identifying why you want to earn a PhD can help indicate whether it’s your best choice.

If your career aspirations don't require a PhD, it might be better to focus on gaining professional experience. Or if you're interested in an advanced education, a master's degree may be a better option. It takes less time to complete than a PhD and can lead to more career opportunities and larger salaries than a bachelor's degree.

Learn more: Is a Master’s Degree Worth It?

Benefits of a PhD

The primary advantage of earning a PhD is your increased demand and marketability in the workforce.

In 2018, less than 5 percent of the United States population had a doctorate degree, compared to about 48 percent with a bachelor's degree and 21 percent with a master's degree, according to the US Census Bureau [ 5 ]. As a member of this elite group, the potential for advanced roles, promotions, or pay raises may be greater.

Even before you have a degree in hand, working toward a PhD gives you opportunities to hone valuable skills , including writing, research, and data analysis . Furthermore, completing a PhD program can demonstrate to potential employers that you have specialized knowledge and the fortitude to finish such an advanced degree.

Costs of a PhD

Beyond the time they take to complete, PhD programs can be expensive. The average cost of a PhD program in the United States is just under $100,000. At some schools, the cost of a PhD can even exceed $200,000 [ 6 ]. While many institutions offer funding support in the form of assistantships or scholarships, many PhD students still graduate with student loan debt. In 2023, the average student loan debt for PhD was $134,797 [ 7 ].

Another factor to consider is the loss of income you might incur while you're working toward your degree. Some graduate students accept teaching or research assistantships to help fund the cost of their program, but these may not pay as much as full-time positions. Working on your education may also mean pausing the professional experience you’d gain in the workforce—and potentially losing out on promotions and raises. However, it’s worth noting that graduate degree holders earn much more over the course of their lifetime than bachelor’s degree holders, according to the US Social Security Administration [ 8 ].

Read more: How to Pay for Graduate School: 8 Ways

Set yourself up for success

A PhD is a major accomplishment. As you think about your long-term goals and whether a PhD will help you achieve them, it's important to understand ways you can set yourself up for success. According to the University of Georgia, success in a PhD program often means [ 9 ]:

Understanding the demands and expectations of the program

Receiving adequate program orientation

Getting support from peers and faculty

Feeling a sense of belonging as a member of an academic community

These conditions underscore the importance of choosing the right program and school to fit your personal and professional goals. Take time to research the ways your potential institution offers financial support, mental health support, and career placement support, among other program features.

An advanced degree can be a lucrative credential. You can earn your master’s in a number of in-demand fields from top universities on Coursera. Earn a degree in computer science , business , management , or public health , all while enjoying greater flexibility than an in-person degree program tends to offer. Earning your master's can also help you discern whether a PhD makes sense for your larger objectives.

Article sources

Survey of Earned Doctorates. " Path to the doctorate , https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf22300/report/path-to-the-doctorate." Accessed January 30, 2024.

International Journal of Higher Education. “ Who Are the Doctoral Students Who Drop Out? , https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1188721.pdf.” Accessed January 30, 2024.

The New York Times. " Exploring Ways to Shorten the Ascent to a PhD , https://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/03/education/03education.html." Accessed January 30, 2024.

National Science Foundation. " Science and Engineering Doctorates , https://www.nsf.gov/statistics/2018/nsf18304/report/age-at-doctorate-award-what-are-the-overall-trends-and-characteristics/characteristics-of-doctorate-recipients-sex.cfm." Accessed January 30, 2024.

US Census Bureau. " About 13.1 Percent Have a Master’s, Professional Degree or Doctorate , https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/02/number-of-people-with-masters-and-phd-degrees-double-since-2000.html." Accessed January 30, 2024.

Education Data Initiative. " Average Cost of a Doctorate Degree , https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-a-doctorate-degree." Accessed January 30, 2024.

Education Data Initiative. " Average Graduate Student Loan Debt , https://educationdata.org/average-graduate-student-loan-debt." Accessed January 30, 2024.

Social Security Administration. " Education and Lifetime Earnings , https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/research-summaries/education-earnings.html." Accessed January 30, 2024.

 A Data-Driven Approach to Improving Doctoral Completion. " Chapter 2: Description of Projects , https://cgsnet.org/cgs-occasional-paper-series/university-georgia/chapter-2." Accessed January 30, 2024.

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Editorial Team

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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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PhD in Psychology Degree Programs

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

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

Table of Contents

• Reasons to Pursue a PhD in Psychology
• Program Options

Admission Requirements

• Core Concepts

Top-Rated PhD in Psychology Programs

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Reasons to pursue a phd in psychology degree.

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

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

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

PhD in Psychology Program Options

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

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

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

Online Degree Formats

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

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

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

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

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

Core Concepts and Coursework

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

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

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

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

Select PhD in Psychology Programs

Traditional programs.

Stanford University

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

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

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

University of Michigan

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

Hybrid and Online Programs

Fielding Graduate University

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

Michigan State University

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

Jobs with a PhD in Psychology

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

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

Can I complete a PhD in Psychology part-time?

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

How much can I make with a PhD in Psychology?

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

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

How do I become a licensed psychologist?

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

Is it worth getting a PhD in Psychology?

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

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

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

What’s the typical salary for a psychology professor?

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

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

PhD Admissions

The PhD program in Psychology trains students for careers in research and teaching. In addition to a wide range of courses, the PhD program is characterized by close collaboration between students and their faculty advisors. 

General Information

The Department of Psychology holistically reviews each candidate's complete application to assess the promise of a career in teaching and research. Consideration is based on various factors, including courses taken, grade point average, letters of recommendation, and the statement of purpose. Additionally, the Department of Psychology places considerable emphasis on research training, and admitted students have often been involved in independent research as undergraduate students or post-baccalaureate settings. Although there are no course requirements for admission, all applicants should have sufficient foundational knowledge and research experience to engage in graduate-level coursework and research.

We accept students with undergraduate degrees and those with both undergraduate and master's degrees. An undergraduate psychology major is not required; the Department welcomes applicants from other academic backgrounds.

Our application portal is now closed for the AY24-25 admissions cycle.  Please consider applying during next year's AY25-26 admissions cycle, which opens on September 15, 2024.

How to Apply

Application and deadline.

Our 2025-26 Admissions application will open on September 15, 2024.

Applications will be due on November 30, 2024

The deadline for letters of recommendation will be  November 30, 2024 . 

Once an applicant submits the recommenders' information, the recommenders will receive an automated email with instructions for submitting the letter. Late letters should be sent directly to psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) . Staff will add them to the application file if the review process is still underway. Still, the faculty reviewers are not obligated to re-review files for materials submitted after the deadline.

The status of submitted applications can be viewed by logging in to the   application portal . 

The deadline to apply for the Stanford Psychology Ph.D. program is  November 30, 2024 . 

Applicants who are admitted to the program will matriculate in autumn 2025. 

In addition to the information below, please review the  Graduate Admissions  website prior to starting your application. The Department of Psychology does not have rolling admissions. We admit for the Autumn term only.

Requirements

• U.S. Bachelor's degree or its  foreign equivalent
• Statement of Purpose (submitted electronically as part of the graduate application). You will be able to specify three  Psychology Department faculty members , in order of preference, with whom you would like to work. 
• Three  Letters of Recommendation  (submitted electronically). A maximum of six letters will be accepted.
• Unofficial transcripts from all universities and colleges you have attended for at least one year must be uploaded to the graduate application. Applicants who reach the interview stage will be asked to provide official transcripts as well; Department staff will reach out to these applicants with instructions for submitting official transcripts. Please do  not  submit official transcripts with your initial application.
• Required for non-native English speakers: TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores, submitted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) electronically to Stanford. 

Application Fee

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

Application Review & Status Check

The Department of Psychology welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. The review of applications is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, and admissions essays to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field.

To check the status or activity of your application, please log into your  application account . You can also send reminders to recommenders who have not yet submitted their letter of recommendation.

Due to limited bandwidth, the Department of Psychology staff will not answer any phone or email queries about application status, including requests to confirm the receipt of official transcripts.

Our faculty will interview prospective students before making final admission decisions. Candidates who progress to the interview round will be informed in January. Interviews are generally conducted in February.

The Department of Psychology recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.

• Diversity and Engagement in Psychology PhD Programs 
• Vice Provost for Graduate Education
• Stanford IDEAL
• Graduate Application Fee Waiver Information

For More Information

Please see our  list of Frequently Asked Questions  and  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (contact us)  should you have additional questions.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Ph.D. Degree?

Earning a Ph.D. from a U.S. grad school typically requires nearly six years, federal statistics show.

How Long It Takes to Get a Ph.D. Degree

Caiaimage | Tom Merton | Getty Images

A Ph.D. is most appropriate for someone who is a "lifelong learner."

Students who have excelled within a specific academic discipline and who have a strong interest in that field may choose to pursue a Ph.D. degree. However, Ph.D. degree-holders urge prospective students to think carefully about whether they truly want or need a doctoral degree, since Ph.D. programs last for multiple years.

According to the Survey of Earned Doctorates, a census of recent research doctorate recipients who earned their degree from U.S. institutions, the median amount of time it took individuals who received their doctorates in 2017 to complete their program was 5.8 years. However, there are many types of programs that typically take longer than six years to complete, such as humanities and arts doctorates, where the median time for individuals to earn their degree was 7.1 years, according to the survey.

Some Ph.D. candidates begin doctoral programs after they have already obtained master's degrees, which means the time spent in grad school is a combination of the time spent pursuing a master's and the years invested in a doctorate. In order to receive a Ph.D. degree, a student must produce and successfully defend an original academic dissertation, which must be approved by a dissertation committtee. Writing and defending a dissertation is so difficult that many Ph.D. students drop out of their Ph.D. programs having done most of the work necessary for degree without completing the dissertation component. These Ph.D. program dropouts often use the phrase " all but dissertation " or the abbreviation "ABD" on their resumes.

According to a comprehensive study of Ph.D. completion rates published by The Council of Graduate Schools in 2008, only 56.6% of people who begin Ph.D. programs earn Ph.D. degrees.

Ian Curtis, a founding partner with H&C Education, an educational and admissions consulting firm, who is pursuing a Ph.D. degree in French at Yale University , says there are several steps involved in the process of obtaining a Ph.D. Students typically need to fulfill course requirements and pass comprehensive exams, Curtis warns. "Once these obligations have been completed, how long it takes you to write your dissertation depends on who you are, how you work, what field you're in and what other responsibilities you have in life," he wrote in an email. Though some Ph.D. students can write a dissertation in a single year, that is rare, and the dissertation writing process may last for several years, Curtis says.

Curtis adds that the level of support a Ph.D. student receives from an academic advisor or faculty mentor can be a key factor in determining the length of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. program. "Before you decide to enroll at a specific program, you’ll want to meet your future advisor," Curtis advises. "Also, reach out to his or her current and former students to get a sense of what he or she is like to work with."

Curtis also notes that if there is a gap between the amount of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. and the amount of time a student's funding lasts, this can slow down the Ph.D. completion process. "Keep in mind that if you run out of funding at some point during your doctorate, you will need to find paid work, and this will leave you even less time to focus on writing your dissertation," he says. "If one of the programs you’re looking at has a record of significantly longer – or shorter – times to competition, this is good information to take into consideration."

He adds that prospective Ph.D. students who already have master's degrees in the field they intend to focus their Ph.D. on should investigate whether the courses they took in their master's program would count toward the requirements of a Ph.D. program. "You’ll want to discuss your particular situation with your program to see whether this will be possible, and how many credits you are likely to receive as the result of your master’s work," he says.

How to Write M.D.-Ph.D. Application Essays

Ilana Kowarski May 15, 2018

Emmanuel C. Nwaodua, who has a Ph.D. degree in geology, says some Ph.D. programs require candidates to publish a paper in a first-rate, peer-reviewed academic journal. "This could extend your stay by a couple of years," he warns.

Pierre Huguet, the CEO and co-founder of H&C Education, says prospective Ph.D. students should be aware that a Ph.D. is designed to prepare a person for a career as a scholar. "Most of the jobs available to Ph.D. students upon graduation are academic in nature and directly related to their fields of study: professor, researcher, etc.," Huguet wrote in an email. "The truth is that more specialization can mean fewer job opportunities. Before starting a Ph.D., students should be sure that they want to pursue a career in academia, or in research. If not, they should make time during the Ph.D. to show recruiters that they’ve traveled beyond their labs and libraries to gain some professional hands-on experience."

Jack Appleman, a business writing instructor, published author and Ph.D. candidate focusing on organizational communication with the University at Albany—SUNY , says Ph.D. programs require a level of commitment and focus that goes beyond what is necessary for a typical corporate job. A program with flexible course requirements that allow a student to customize his or her curriculum based on academic interests and personal obligations is ideal, he says.

Joan Kee, a professor at the University of Michigan with the university's history of art department, says that the length of time required for a Ph.D. varies widely depending on what subject the Ph.D. focuses on. "Ph.D. program length is very discipline and even field-specific; for example, you can and are expected to finish a Ph.D, in economics in under five years, but that would be impossible in art history (or most of the humanities)," she wrote in an email.

Kee adds that humanities Ph.D. programs often require someone to learn a foreign language, and "fields like anthropology and art history require extensive field research." Kee says funding for a humanities Ph.D. program typically only lasts five years, even though it is uncommon for someone to obtain a Ph.D. degree in a humanities field within that time frame. "Because of this, many if not most Ph.D. students must work to make ends meet, thus further prolonging the time of completion," she says.

Jean Marie Carey, who earned her Ph.D. degree in art history and German from the University of Otago in New Zealand, encourages prospective Ph.D. students to check whether their potential Ph.D. program has published a timeline of how long it takes a Ph.D. student to complete their program. She says it is also prudent to speak with Ph.D. graduates of the school and ask about their experience.

Online Doctoral Programs: What to Expect

Ronald Wellman March 23, 2018

Kristin Redington Bennett, the founder of the Illumii educational consulting firm in North Carolina, encourages Ph.D. hopefuls to think carefully about whether they want to become a scholar. Bennett, who has a Ph.D. in curriculum and assessment and who previously worked as an assistant professor at Wake Forest University , says a Ph.D. is most appropriate for someone who is a "lifelong learner." She says someone contemplating a Ph.D. should ask themselves the following questions "Are you a very curious person... and are you persistent?"

Bennett urges prospective Ph.D. students to visit the campuses of their target graduate programs since a Ph.D. program takes so much time that it is important to find a school that feels comfortable. She adds that aspiring Ph.D. students who prefer a collaborative learning environment should be wary of graduate programs that have a cut-throat and competitive atmosphere, since such students may not thrive in that type of setting.

Alumni of Ph.D. programs note that the process of obtaining a Ph.D. is arduous, regardless of the type of Ph.D. program. "A Ph.D. is a long commitment of your time, energy and financial resources, so it'll be easier on you if you are passionate about research," says Grace Lee, who has a Ph.D. in neuroscience and is the founder and CEO of Mastery Insights, an education and career coaching company, and the host of the Career Revisionist podcast.

"A Ph.D. isn't about rehashing years of knowledge that is already out there, but rather it is about your ability to generate new knowledge. Your intellectual masterpiece (which is your dissertation) takes a lot of time, intellectual creativity and innovation to put together, so you have to be truly passionate about that," Lee says.

Curtis says a prospective Ph.D. student's enthusiasm for academic work, teaching and research are the key criteria they should use to decide whether to obtain a Ph.D. degree. "While the time it takes to complete a doctorate is an understandable concern for many, my personal belief is that time is not the most important factor to consider," he says. "Good Ph.D. programs provide their students with generous stipends, health care and sometimes even subsidized housing."

Erin Skelly, a graduate admissions counselor at the IvyWise admissions consulting firm, says when a Ph.D. students struggles to complete his or her Ph.D. degree, it may have more to do with the student's academic interests or personal circumstances than his or her program.

"The time to complete a Ph.D. can depend on a number of variables, but the specific discipline or school would only account for a year or two's difference," she wrote in an email. "When a student takes significantly longer to complete a Ph.D. (degree), it's usually related to the student's coursework and research – they need to take additional coursework to complete their comprehensive exams; they change the focus of their program or dissertation, requiring extra coursework or research; or their research doesn't yield the results they hoped for, and they need to generate a new theory and conduct more research."

Skelly warns that the average completion time of a Ph.D. program may be misleading in some cases, if the average is skewed based on one or two outliers. She suggests that instead of focusing on the duration of a particular Ph.D. program, prospective students should investigate the program's attritition and graduation rates.

"It is worthwhile to look at the program requirements and the school's proposed timeline for completion, and meet current students to get their input on how realistic these expectations for completion are," Skelly says. "That can give you an honest idea of how long it will really take to complete the program."

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Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Program Guide

Contributing Writer

Editor, Health Education

Reviewer & Writer

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• A doctorate is the minimum degree for clinical psychology licensure in most states.
• Clinical psychology doctoral students can earn a Ph.D. or Psy.D.
• Ph.D. graduates can pursue university-level research and teaching
• Psy.D. holders provide direct clinical psychology services to patients and clients.

Clinical psychology doctoral programs can lead to various careers. Graduates can conduct research, teach at the university level, or work directly with patients.

Find out more about choosing a degree and program, how to get accepted, what you can do with a clinical psychology doctorate, and how much you can earn.

Should You Get a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?

A doctorate is the minimum requirement for becoming licensed as a clinical psychologist in nearly all U.S. states. Earning a doctorate takes time, money, and effort. Deciding whether to pursue a doctoral degree can hinge on career goals, potential salaries, and degree options.

As you read through this guide, some questions to ask yourself include:

• Should you opt for an academic- and research-focused Ph.D. in clinical psychology or a clinical practice-focused Psy.D.?
• How much money can you expect to earn, and will the return on your investment be worth the time, money, and effort?

Featured Online Psychology Programs

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What to Expect From a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Program

What to expect in a clinical psychology doctorate program depends on whether you choose a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in clinical psychology or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.)

Ph.D. programs prepare graduates for careers in academia. The Psy.D. curriculum focuses on clinical practice working directly with patients. You may find overlapping course content common to both degrees.

What You’ll Learn

Doctoral programs in clinical psychology include courses in cognitive behavior, human development, research, scholarly writing, and learning theories. Graduation usually requires residencies or internships and a dissertation or thesis.

Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs include specialization areas and training in generating knowledge of or providing clinical psychology services.

Students hone skills in the following areas:

• Culturally appropriate communication skills
• Knowledge of history and systems of psychology
• Quantitative and qualitative research
• Statistical analysis
• Patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment

What You’ll Pay

$47,773 per year

Average Tuition, Fees and Expenses for the 2019-20 School Year

How Long You’ll Spend in School

Ph.d. program vs. psy.d. program: clinical psychology, program and career goals.

Ph.D. programs center on advancing knowledge of clinical psychology through teaching and scientific research, primarily in higher education. Psy.D. teachings apply scientific knowledge of clinical psychology to groups and individuals. Both types of doctoral degrees can prepare graduates to become licensed psychologists.

Generally, the Ph.D. curriculum includes qualitative and quantitative scientific research, scholarly writing, statistics, and post-secondary teaching methods. Psy.D. courses emphasize clinical psychology methodologies and theories through practical experience in patient assessment, consulting, diagnosis, intervention, and treatment. However, both types of programs include research and clinical practice.

Capstone Experience

While overlap may exist between the two types of doctorates, generally, Ph.D. students can expect to complete comprehensive exams, residencies, and dissertations. Psy.D. programs also require a thesis or examination and experiential learning, such as practicums and internships, providing psychological services to patients.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), graduate students pay an average of $20,556 in tuition and fees in 2020 for a research Ph.D. and $34,566 per year for a professional practice Psy.D. Typically, Ph.D. programs are more likely to offer tuition waivers and teaching or research assistantships than Psy.D. programs.

Average Salary

The average annual salary for graduates of Psy.D. programs is $87,000, with a range of $58,000-$116,000 for clinical psychologists, according to Payscale data from July 2023. Ph.D. graduates average $99,000 per year , and clinical psychologist salaries range from $62,000 to $125,000.

How to Choose a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Program

Choosing a doctorate in clinical psychology entails researching schools and programs to determine which ones best meet your academic and professional goals.

Factors to consider include:

• Ph.D or Psy.D.: Are your goals more research or clinical-focused? Are you interested in working in academia and research or directly with patients?
• Accreditation: Is the program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA)?
• Specialization Areas: Which programs have the research or practice concentrations you're interested in pursuing?
• Admission Requirements: Do you have the requisite minimum GPA? Have you completed the prerequisite degree or coursework?
• Cost: Can you afford the tuition? Do the programs offer tuition waivers, assistantships, or financial aid?

How to Get Into a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Program

While admission requirements vary by program, you can expect to see some common requirements.

Most Ph.D. and Psy.D. admissions require:

• A master's degree in psychology from an APA-accredited program (some may accept a bachelor's degree)
• A minimum 3.0 GPA
• Prerequisite coursework specified by the program
• Official transcripts
• 2-3 letters of recommendation
• A personal statement
• A writing sample
• An individual or group interview

What Can You Do With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?

A doctoral degree — either a Ph.D. or Psy.D. — is the minimum requirement for licensure as a clinical psychologist.

A Ph.D. can lead to research and teaching-focused careers, while a Psy.D. is clinically focused. However, there is some overlap. For example, Psy.D. graduates may conduct applied research and Ph.D. graduates may practice clinical psychology.

Potential clinical psychology careers include child psychologist, forensic psychologist, psychosocial specialist, researcher, and university professor.

Populations clinical psychologists commonly focus on:

• Children: Working with children , adolescents, and teens, clinical psychologists help with processing emotions, overcoming trauma, employing coping strategies, managing learning disabilities, and addressing mental health issues.
• Families: Clinical psychologists counsel families as they navigate changes such as divorce or adoption, stress due to job losses or addictions, or conflicts arising from family dynamics. Researchers study families to understand issues and formulate treatment options.
• People in the legal system: Forensic psychologists and researchers assist those working in the courts and justice systems by creating criminal profiles and evaluating whether suspects are fit to stand trial.
• People with substance use and mental health conditions: Clinical psychologists help and study patients experiencing mental health disorders and addictions to alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and other substances by formulating and implementing effective assessment, diagnostic, and treatment procedures.
• Older adults: Clinical psychologists and researchers specializing in older adults help those 65 and older deal with life changes, loss of independence, physical and mental health problems, and the deaths of loved ones.

How Much Can You Make With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists the average annual salary for clinical and counseling psychologists at $102,740 . The BLS reports annual average salaries for psychologists who teach and conduct research at postsecondary schools at $88,470 .

Clinical psychologists who work in research at colleges and universities rather than in clinical practice make $78,300 per year, about $24,000 less than the average salary for all clinical and counseling psychologists, $102,740, according to BLS data.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

Is a ph.d. in clinical psychology worth it.

A Ph.D. in clinical psychology can be worth the time, money, and effort. The educational costs can be greatly reduced with tuition waivers and teaching or research assistant positions offered to Ph.D. students. Ph.D. graduates earn an average salary of $99,000 annually, which can help with student loan repayment.

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

A Ph.D. in psychology is research focused, while a clinical psychology doctorate is assessment and treatment focused. Ph.D. students conduct scientific research and can find careers in academia advancing the field. Clinically focused Psy.D. students train to work directly with patients and clients in areas like child psychology, forensic psychology, and addiction.

Do you get paid more with a Ph.D. or Psy.D.?

Ph.D. holders earn higher salaries. Ph.D. wages average $99,000 per year, compared to Psy.D. salaries average $87,000, according to Payscale.

How hard is it to get into a Ph.D. program for clinical psychology?

Clinical psychology Ph.D. program admissions are highly competitive. A 2019 study indicated a 12.1% acceptance rate to clinical psychology doctoral programs. An APA survey published in 2019 found that participating clinical psychology doctoral programs received a median of 149 applications and accepted a median of 11 students.

Page last reviewed on August 21, 2023

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Get Your Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, at a glance, why get a phd in clinical psychology, entry requirements for a clinical psychology phd program, what’s covered in a clinical psychology phd program, how much does a phd in clinical psychology cost, program funding and financial support, program duration and flexibility, location and access to clinical populations, program curriculum and specializations, internship placement and post-graduation outcomes, what jobs can you do with a phd in clinical psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in clinical psychology.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in  clinical psychology  is an advanced academic degree that delves into the scientific study, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders and behavioral conditions. This rigorous program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in research, teaching, and direct clinical practice. Through the blend of coursework, research, and hands-on clinical training, students are equipped with comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in the field of psychology.

Typically, a PhD in clinical psychology takes between 4 to 7 years to complete, with the variation in duration often depending on the specific requirements of the program, the nature of the student’s research, and the requisite clinical training hours. Most programs include a combination of classroom-based learning, research projects culminating in a dissertation, and applied clinical experience through internships or  practicums .

The curriculum for a PhD in clinical psychology encompasses a wide range of topics. Core areas of study usually include foundations of clinical psychology, research methods, psychopathology, psychological assessment, and various psychotherapy and counseling techniques. Additionally, students often delve into specialized subjects such as  neuropsychology ,  forensic psychology ,  child psychology  and health psychology. This comprehensive training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address diverse psychological needs across different populations and settings.

There are a multitude of reasons why students pursue a PhD in clinical psychology, here are a few key reasons to consider it:

Demand for Clinical Psychologists

The demand for  clinical psychologists  has been steadily rising, reflecting the growing awareness and acceptance of mental health services in the general population. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (as of 2019), the employment of psychologists is projected to grow 14% from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the greater demand for psychological services in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and social service agencies. With a PhD in clinical psychology, individuals are well-equipped to meet this increasing demand, providing essential services and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Opportunity for Specialization and Higher Earnings

Pursuing a PhD in clinical psychology opens doors to various specializations, such as neuropsychology, child psychology, or forensic psychology. Specialized psychologists often have the potential for higher earnings compared to their generalist counterparts. For instance, according to a 2019 salary survey by the American Psychological Association (APA), doctoral-level clinical psychologists with a specialization (like neuropsychologists) reported median salaries that were approximately 40% higher than those without a specialization. A PhD program allows for deep dives into specific areas of interest, enhancing expertise and potentially boosting earning potential.

Leadership Opportunities and Policy Influence

One of the often-overlooked advantages of a PhD in clinical psychology is the doors it opens to leadership roles within organizations and the potential to influence public policy. The intensive training and deep expertise gained from such a doctoral program position graduates as thought leaders in the field of mental health. According to the American Psychological Association, psychologists with doctoral degrees often find themselves in positions where they can shape policy, both within healthcare institutions and at regional or national levels. Their informed perspectives are invaluable in advisory roles, committees, or when collaborating with governments to create mental health programs, ensuring that psychological services are both effective and accessible. A PhD not only amplifies their voice but also underscores the weight of their expertise in these pivotal roles.

• Bachelor’s Degree : Typically in psychology or a related field, though some programs may accept applicants from other disciplines if they’ve completed prerequisite courses.
• Master’s Degree : Some programs prefer or require a  master’s degree  in psychology or a related field, while others will accept students directly from a  bachelor’s program .
• Grade Point Average (GPA) : Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.
• Letters of Recommendation : Typically from professors, researchers, or professionals familiar with the applicant’s academic and/or clinical work.
• Background Check : Given the nature of clinical work, some programs might require a background check before final admission.

A PhD in clinical psychology is designed to train students in both the science and practice of psychology. The curriculum typically covers a wide array of topics to ensure that graduates are well-rounded and competent researchers, educators, and clinicians. Here’s an overview of the subjects often covered:

• Foundations of Clinical Psychology : This introduces students to the history, theories, and key concepts of the field.
• Research Methods and Statistics : Comprehensive training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, along with advanced statistical techniques, ensuring students can design and analyze research effectively.
• Psychopathology : Study of various psychological disorders, understanding their origins, classifications, and manifestations across the lifespan.
• Psychological Assessment : Techniques and tools used for clinical assessments, including intelligence testing, personality assessment, and neuropsychological testing.
• Psychotherapy and Intervention : Training in therapeutic modalities and techniques, from cognitive-behavioral therapy to psychodynamic approaches, ensuring students can provide evidence-based treatments.
• Professional Ethics and Issues : Examination of the ethical guidelines and professional standards in the practice of clinical psychology.
• Biological Bases of Behavior : Understanding the neurobiological and physiological processes underpinning behavior, emotion, and cognition.
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior : Exploring how cognitive processes and emotions shape human behavior.
• Social Bases of Behavior : Understanding social interactions, group dynamics, and broader societal and cultural factors that influence psychology.
• Human Development : Insights into psychological development from infancy to old age.
• Diversity and Multicultural Psychology : Training to ensure culturally competent care, addressing the unique psychological needs of diverse populations.

Here’s a sample curriculum for a PhD program in clinical psychology:

• Introduction to Clinical Psychology
• Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Theory and Practice
• Research Methods in Psychology I
• Psychological Statistics I
• Clinical Practicum I
• Psychopathology I
• Psychological Assessment I: Cognitive and Intellectual Assessment
• Research Methods in Psychology II
• Psychological Statistics II
• Clinical Practicum II

Second Year

• Psychopathology II
• Psychological Assessment II: Personality Assessment
• Human Development Across the Lifespan
• Biological Bases of Behavior
• Clinical Practicum III
• Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Therapies
• Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior
• Advanced Quantitative Methods
• Professional Ethics in Clinical Psychology
• Clinical Practicum IV
• Neuropsychological Assessment
• Multicultural Psychology and Diversity Issues in Treatment
• Social Bases of Behavior
• Health Psychology
• Clinical Practicum V
• Forensic Psychology
• Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy
• Advanced Clinical Seminar (e.g., trauma therapy or substance abuse treatment)
• Supervision and Consultation in Clinical Practice
• Clinical Practicum VI

Fourth Year

• Family and Couples Therapy
• Advanced Research Seminar I
• Clinical Psychopharmacology (for some programs)
• Elective Course (e.g., School Psychology, Military Psychology, etc.)
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Advanced Research Seminar II
• Group Psychotherapy
• Elective Course (e.g., Geriatric Psychology, Positive Psychology, etc.)
• Dissertation Research
• Predoctoral Internship (typically a full-year, full-time commitment)
• Dissertation Completion and Defense

The cost of pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology varies significantly based on the type of institution and residency status.

Generally, private universities tend to have higher tuition rates, ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 per year. Public universities, on the other hand, offer different rates for in-state and out-of-state residents; in-state tuition can range between $10,000 to $30,000 per year, while out-of-state students might pay between $25,000 to $50,000 annually. These figures don’t account for other costs like fees, books, and living expenses.

It’s worth noting that many Clinical Psychology PhD programs provide financial support, often in the form of fellowships, research, or teaching assistantships, which can cover tuition and offer stipends.

What to look for in a PhD program

It can be overwhelming with so many PhD programs out there and so many factors to consider. Choosing a program in clinical psychology is a significant decision that will impact the trajectory of your career. Here are a few key ways to compare programs/institutions:

Fully funded programs, which include tuition waivers and stipends, can drastically reduce student debt and allow students to focus on their studies.The National Science Foundation’s Survey of Earned Doctorates found that over 75% of research doctorate recipients in psychology reported no education-related debt, largely due to funding availability in their programs.

The length of a program and its ability to accommodate part-time students or offer flexible schedules can be vital, especially for those balancing work, family, or other commitments.

According to the APA, the median time to complete a doctorate in psychology has been around 7 years. However, some programs, especially those designed for working professionals, might offer accelerated tracks or part-time options, which can affect this duration.

Being in a location that provides access to diverse clinical populations or specific groups that align with a student’s research interests can be invaluable for hands-on training and research.

A report from the APA emphasized the importance of diversity in clinical training. Programs located in urban settings or areas with diverse communities can offer broader exposure and experience in multicultural clinical practice, which is essential for a comprehensive education in clinical psychology.

The curriculum and available specializations should align with a student’s career and research interests.

In a survey by the APA, PhD recipients emphasized the importance of finding a program that matched their specific interests, as this played a crucial role in their eventual job satisfaction and career trajectory.

High-quality internship placements and positive post-graduation outcomes can significantly influence a graduate’s early career.

The Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) provides data on internship match rates. Programs with high match rates to APA-accredited internships often signal strong training and preparation.

• Licensed Clinical Psychologist : This is perhaps the most direct application of the degree. Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They might work with specific populations, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with severe mental illness.
• Licensed professional counselor : an LPC is a mental health professional trained to provide therapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, and groups for a variety of emotional and psychological challenges.
• Mental Health Counselor :  provide counseling and therapy services to individuals and groups with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
• School Psychologist :  work in K-12 schools to provide counseling and support services to students, including academic guidance, behavioral interventions, and emotional support.
• Professor : A PhD graduate can work in academia, conducting research on various psychological topics and teaching undergraduate and graduate students.
• Forensic Psychologist : Working at the intersection of psychology and the legal system, forensic psychologists might assess defendants’ competency, provide expert testimony, or evaluate the risk of reoffending. Although you might instead consider a  PhD in forensic psychology .
• Neuropsychologist:  diagnose and treat cognitive and behavioral disorders related to brain function, such as traumatic brain injury and dementia.
• Health Psychologist : Focusing on how psychological factors affect health and illness, these professionals might work in hospitals, clinics, or public health settings to improve patient outcomes.
• Director of Clinical Services : Those with a blend of clinical expertise and administrative skills might oversee clinical services at hospitals, clinics, or mental health centers
• Research Psychologist :  conduct research on a variety of topics related to human behavior and mental health, including developmental psychology, social psychology, and cognitive psychology.
• Industrial-Organizational Psychologist : work with organizations to improve productivity and employee well-being through programs such as employee selection, training, and development.
• Licensed Clinical Psychologist : $91,677
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) : $65,000
• Mental Health Counselor : $60,000
• School Psychologist : $90,000
• Professor (Psychology) : $80,370
• Forensic Psychologist : $101,000
• Neuropsychologist : $79,820
• Health Psychologist: $100,000
• Director of Clinical Services: $120,000
• Research Psychologist : $79,000
• Industrial-Organizational Psychologist : $112,690

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PhD in Psychology Course, Admissions, Eligibility, Syllabus, Fees, Career

Ph.D. in psychology is a doctoral degree program generally completed in an ideal time of three years or more. Ph.D. Psychology is a degree that deals with the clinical psychology of humans or different species and explores the treatments and methods available. Graduates with a master’s degree in psychology from a recognised institute are eligible to pursue Ph.D. in psychology. The average salary of a Psychologist is Rs. 3.7 LPA.

Highlights - Ph.D. in psychology

Eligibility criteria for ph.d. in psychology, admission process of ph.d in psychology, top entrance exams for ph.d in psychology, ph.d in psychology cutoff, ph.d in psychology skills required, syllabus of ph.d psychology, ph.d in psychology fee structure, scope of ph.d in psychology, career options after completing ph.d in psychology, benefits of studying ph.d in psychology, salary after ph.d in psychology, top ph.d psychology colleges in india with fees, top private ph.d psychology colleges in india with fees, top government ph.d. psychology colleges in india with fees.

To pursue a Ph.D. in a psychology course, students are required to complete their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in psychology. Some of the popular bachelor’s choices include B.Com , BA, B.Sc, BBA, and, in the case of master's, M.Com, MBA , and more such similar courses.

Students must fulfil the eligibility requirements of the course before applying for admissions, they must have completed a Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline from a recognised university. They must also clear relevant entrance exams such as UGC NET with a valid aggregate score.

Many private and public institutes offer Ph.D Psychology courses, popular colleges are Akal College of Arts and Social Sciences, Anugraha Institute of Social Sciences, and Government Arts College. The average course fees of a Ph.D. in Psychology range from Rs. 59,550 to Rs. 3.65 Lakhs.

The eligibility criteria for Ph.D. in psychology courses is the minimum qualification that must be obtained by the students in order to be eligible for admission. Candidates are required to fulfil all the eligibility requirements else they are disqualified from the admission process. Mentioned below are the eligibility criteria of

• Applicants for Ph.D. in psychology are required to complete their postgraduate studies in psychology or a related field.
• Prospective candidates are required to appear in the entrance examination such as UGC NET.
• Prospective candidates who qualify for the entrance examination are required to fill out the application form.

The admission process for Ph.D. in psychology courses is more or less the same for every institute offering this degree. The admission is entrance-based and national-level counselling is conducted to confirm the admission. Some of the important admission steps for a Ph.D. in psychology are discussed below:

• Candidates are required to make sure they meet all the eligibility criteria specified by the university.
• They are then required to take the entrance examination and clear the exam with a cutoff estimated.
• After the result of the entrance exam, students are required to fill out the application form providing all personal and academic details.
• Selected students are invited to participate in group discussions and personal interviews.
• Applicants who successfully clear all the rounds are offered admission.

Admission to PhD in psychology courses is offered on the basis of national-level entrance exams for most universities. Some of the popular entrance examinations for admission to PhD in psychology are mentioned below:

UGC NET : UGC NET or University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test is a national-level entrance exam conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA). The mode of the exam is online, and the exam is conducted two times in a year. Candidates can check the relevant exam details mentioned in the table below:

• UGC NET Admit Card
• UGC NET Syllabus
• UGC NET Exam Pattern
• UGC NET Result
• UGC NET Cutoff
• UGC NET Preparation Tips
• UGC NET Eligibility
• UGC NET Application

The cutoff for a Ph.D. in psychology can be defined as the minimum score for any entrance exam that has to be scored by the students for admission to their choice of university and course. The cutoff for Ph.D in Psychology is released by many institutes all over India after the completion of the admission process.

Ph.D. in psychology candidates are required to possess a lot of skills that are not only necessary but also help them become better at their job. A Ph.D student is involved in research and analysis for a long duration and is required to possess certain skills that help them excel in their career.

• Managerial Skills
• Observation Skills
• Time Management
• Analytical and Critical Thinking
• Leadership Skills
• Decision Making

The syllabus for PhD in psychology is quite subjective since there are various sub-disciplines available for research. Students choose their optional subjects and area of research as per their interest in the topic. In the following table, we have listed the syllabus of MDU Rohtak for their Ph.D Psychology course.

* The examination will be based on the Report and Viva

The fee structure for Ph.D. in psychology courses is subjective and depends from university to university. Some universities charge less fees due to external funding from government or private companies. However, a rough estimate of the average fee structure for Ph.D. in psychology courses ranges between Rs. 59,550 to Rs. 3.65 Lakhs.

The scope of PhD in psychology is quite huge in the medical sector and the degree helps students develop a comprehensive approach to human psychology and mental health. Apart from working as a medical professional, graduates with a Ph.D. in psychology can also join schools and universities to work as a counsellor to students.

Ph.D. in psychology is a degree with a plethora of career opportunities in terms of further education as well as job options. After completing a Ph.D. in psychology, candidates can start working as a scientist or research analyst in a research firm.

Candidates can also choose to work as medical psychologists and have their clinics. Another option is to pursue higher education such as a postdoctoral degree. Graduates with Ph.D. in psychology can also start working as a counsellor in schools and colleges.

Top Recruiters:

• Aaji Care Home Health Services Pvt. Ltd
• Inception rehab
• FutureHeights Training and Consultant Pvt. Ltd.
• Zeeboombaa Manpower
• Varta Health

Ph.D. in psychology is one of the most sought-after degree programs in the field of medical and healthcare systems. After completing their Ph.D. in psychology, candidates have the option to either start their medical facility or work as a counsellor in schools, universities, and NGOs.

The salary after completing a Ph.D. in psychology is variable and depends on the skills, knowledge, and job profiles of a candidate. On average, the salary after completing the Ph.D Psychology course is Rs. 3.7 LPA for a Psychologist. After gaining some experience in the field of Psychology, the salary of the graduates will also increase.

Many institutes offer PhD Psychology courses, the admission is based on either an entrance exam or direct admission. Candidates must follow the admission procedure carefully and meet certain eligibility requirements before applying for the admission. Mentioned below are the top colleges in India offering Ph.D Psychology courses.

Several private institutes offer Ph.D Psychology courses, admission to these institutes is based either on the entrance exam or direct admission based on merit score. Private institutes are slightly more expensive than government institutes, but these colleges are known to provide quality education along with state-of-the-art facilities.

Many government institutes in India offer Ph.D. in Psychology degree programmes, students must have a postgraduate degree in psychology or a related discipline to be eligible for admissions. Government institutes offer the courses at slightly cheaper rates than private colleges offering the same course.

Ph.D Psychology is a doctoral course in the field of Psychology, the course provide in-depth information to the students on the practical as well as the theoretical aspects of Psychology. Candidates interested in pursuing the course are advised to meet the eligibility criteria before applying for the admission procedure.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

PhD in Psychology is a degree which deals with the clinical psychology of humans or different species.

PhD in psychology is a doctoral degree programme generally completed in an ideal time of 3 years or more depending on the individual.

Graduates from a master’s degree in psychology from a recognised institute are eligible to pursue PhD in psychology.

The admission is entrance based and national level counselling is conducted to confirm the admission.

For a rough estimate of the average fee structure in PhD in psychology courses, it must be between Rs. 59,550 to Rs. 3.65 Lakhs for the entire course.

On average, the average salary of a Psychologist in India is Rs. 3.7 LPA.

Scientist, Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Research associate are some of the popular job profiles after completing a PhD in psychology.

AajiCare Home Health Services Pvt. Ltd, Inception rehab, Zeeboombaa Manpower, Sahayam, Varta Health are some of the top recruiters of PhD in psychology graduates.

The scope of PhD in psychology is quite huge in the medical sector. There are ample job opportunities available for candidates after completion of PhD in psychology.

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Which psychology field is right for me?

May 15, 2024

Reading time: 4 minutes

Are you interested in using theory, analysis and evidence-based approaches to understand how people think, learn, develop and behave and to help them thrive? If you want to explore new ways to make a difference, the options for discovering your professional path in psychology may seem endless – and you may have found that you need advanced knowledge and skills to take the next step.

What skills can I develop with a psychology degree?

The specific skills that can be useful in the field of psychology will vary depending on the area of study you pursue and your degree level. Some of the broad skills that are important to develop include:

• Communication: Strong communication skills are an asset for helping individuals, groups or organizations, conveying research findings or working with colleagues.
• Ethical awareness: You may be required to handle sensitive information, which means respecting confidentiality.
• Analysis and critical thinking: When you conduct research or work with your stakeholders, you should be able to interpret data and understand how to apply what you know to different situations.
• Patience: Making progress toward specific goals takes time, whether it’s discussing solutions with a patient or conducting research on a study.
• Empathy and active listening: Understanding and recognizing the feelings of others starts with giving your full attention and knowing how to recognize verbal and nonverbal cues.
• Inclusivity: Recognizing the diverse perspectives of people and their communities and examining your own biases can help you adapt your approach to different needs.

Which area of psychology is right for me?

As you explore areas of psychology, these questions may help you figure out your interests:

• Who do you want to help?
• Are you more interested in clinical or applied areas of psychology?
• What issues do you want to focus on?

Your answers to these questions can help you find paths to explore, including degree options that could help you pursue your professional goals. You will need to conduct your own research to understand what opportunities may be available to you. Note that some professional paths may require you to have previous experience, licensure,* certifications or other designations along with a degree.

While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome – such as a job title, promotion, salary increase or other career outcome – we encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

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

What can you do with a psychology degree?

Based on where your interests lie, explore some fields of psychology and degree options offered by Capella.

Clinical psychology:  Study human behavior and help people build wellness and emotional resilience.

• BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling & Therapy
• MS in Clinical Psychology
• PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Behavioral health:  Treat populations in distress to improve emotional, social and mental health.

• BS in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis
• MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis
• PhD in Behavior Analysis

Developmental psychology:  Promote positive development, social growth and emotional changes throughout all stages of life.

• MS in Psychology, Child & Adolescent Development
• PhD in Psychology, Developmental Psychology

Educational psychology: Study how people learn and retain knowledge.

• MS in Psychology, Educational Psychology
• PhD in Psychology, Educational Psychology

School psychology:  Apply principles of educational and developmental psychology to meet behavior and educational needs in a learning environment.

• MS in School Psychology
• EdS in School Psychology
• PsyD in School Psychology

Industrial/organizational psychology:  Support leaders and organizations through an understanding of human behavior to help create efficiencies and advance team performance.

• MS in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology  

Learn more about Capella’s  bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral psychology programs and graduate certificates.

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