Clinical psychology is a specialized field within psychology that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. An online doctorate degree program in clinical psychology is a highly advanced and rigorous program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to work as licensed clinical psychologists.

An online Ph.D. or PsyD in clinical psychology will cover a wide range of topics, including abnormal psychology, psychotherapy, neuropsychology, and more. Students will also gain hands-on experience through clinical practicum and internship opportunities, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

One of the primary benefits of earning an online doctorate degree in clinical psychology is the ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges. Graduates of the program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, helping their clients lead happier, healthier lives.

There are a variety of careers available for individuals with a doctorate degree in clinical psychology, including positions as licensed clinical psychologist, therapy director, research psychologist, and many others. These careers offer a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals while also advancing the field of psychology.

2026 Best Online PhD & PsyD in Clinical Psychology Programs

Counseling Psychology.org presents the definitive guide to the best online PhD and PsyD programs in Clinical Psychology for aspiring mental health professionals seeking flexible educational pathways. Distance learning has revolutionized advanced psychological education, enabling students to pursue rigorous doctoral training without geographical constraints. These comprehensive online programs offer cutting-edge curriculum, experienced faculty, and robust research opportunities that prepare clinicians for diverse professional settings. Our carefully evaluated rankings consider program accreditation, faculty expertise, research resources, and student outcomes to help prospective doctoral candidates make informed decisions about their advanced psychological education. Whether you're a working professional or seeking geographic flexibility, these online doctoral programs provide accessible routes to becoming a licensed clinical psychologist. Learn about our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northern Arizona University's hybrid Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology offers a transformative educational journey for aspiring mental health professionals. Designed to cultivate ethical and culturally-responsive practitioners, the program emphasizes comprehensive clinical skill development through 107 total units of rigorous coursework and practical training. Students gain profound expertise in diagnostic assessment and evidence-based interventions, completing 2000 hours of clinical practice. The program's hybrid format provides flexibility while maintaining high academic standards, requiring a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and three recommendation letters. Graduates are strategically positioned for professional licensure and impactful careers across diverse mental health settings, with individualized research opportunities enhancing their professional competencies.

  • 107 total units required
  • 2000 hours clinical practice
  • Hybrid program format
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Comprehensive professional competencies
  • Leads to potential licensure
  • Diverse clinical training opportunities
  • Individualized research required
  • Three recommendation letters needed
  • Located in North Valley, Phoenix
#2

Fielding Graduate University

Santa Barbara, CA - Private 4-year - fielding.edu

Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

Concentration: Forensic Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fielding Graduate University's APA-accredited PhD in Clinical Psychology with Forensic Psychology concentration offers a groundbreaking distributed learning model tailored for working professionals. This innovative hybrid program blends online and residential learning, enabling students to advance their careers without disrupting personal commitments. With no GRE requirement, the program emphasizes social justice and prepares graduates for licensure as health service psychologists. Students receive comprehensive training in evidence-based diagnosis, assessment, and psychotherapy across multiple therapeutic orientations. Designed for diverse populations including military personnel and career-changing professionals, the program costs $10,385 per term with a flexible 5-6 year completion timeline.

  • APA-accredited doctoral program
  • Distributed learning model
  • No GRE required
  • $10,385 per term
  • 5-6 year completion time
  • Focuses on social justice
  • Multiple therapeutic orientations
  • Forensic Psychology concentration available

Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

Concentration: Neuropsychology, Psychotherapy Research, Health Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fielding Graduate University's PhD in Clinical Psychology provides a flexible hybrid learning experience focusing on Neuropsychology, Psychotherapy Research, and Health Psychology. This APA-accredited program is meticulously designed for working professionals seeking advanced clinical training. With no GRE requirement and a distributed learning model, students can develop sophisticated research competencies while maintaining professional commitments. The curriculum emphasizes social justice and prepares scholar-practitioners to serve diverse populations across various mental health settings. Priced at $10,385 per term, the 5-6 year program offers comprehensive doctoral-level training with innovative online and in-person learning opportunities.

  • APA-accredited doctoral program
  • Distributed learning model
  • No GRE requirement
  • $10,385 per term
  • 5-6 year program duration
  • Focuses on social justice
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Multiple therapeutic orientations

Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

Concentration: Neuropsychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fielding Graduate University's PhD in Clinical Psychology with Neuropsychology concentration delivers an innovative distributed learning model for mental health practitioners. APA-accredited and tailored for working professionals, this hybrid program enables students to pursue advanced psychological training while balancing career and family responsibilities. The curriculum focuses on developing scholar-practitioners committed to social justice, offering specialized training across therapeutic orientations. With no GRE requirement, the program welcomes applicants with a bachelor's degree and 3.0 GPA from the contiguous United States or Canada. Tuition is $10,385 per term, with a flexible 5-6 year completion timeline.

  • APA-accredited doctoral program
  • Distributed learning model
  • No GRE required
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Social justice focused training
  • $10,385 per term tuition
  • 5-6 year completion time
  • Flexible online/residential format
  • Specialized therapeutic orientations

Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

Concentration: Health Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fielding Graduate University's Clinical Psychology PhD with Health Psychology concentration presents a transformative distributed learning experience for professionals seeking advanced psychological training. This APA-accredited hybrid program supports diverse learners, including military personnel and rural residents, through flexible online and residential formats. Emphasizing social justice and scholar-practitioner development, the program prepares graduates for licensure across various therapeutic contexts. With no GRE requirement and a bachelor's degree minimum, students can complete the program in 5-6 years at $10,385 per term. The curriculum prioritizes culturally sensitive, evidence-based practice and professional development.

  • APA-accredited doctoral program
  • Distributed learning model
  • No GRE required
  • 5-6 year completion timeline
  • Tuition $10,385 per term
  • Social justice focused curriculum
  • Faculty are active practitioners
  • Supports diverse student populations
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

University of the Pacific

Stockton, CA - Private 4-year - pacific.edu

Doctorate - PsyD in Counseling Psychology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of the Pacific's innovative online and hybrid PsyD in Counseling Psychology offers a flexible four-year doctoral program designed for aspiring mental health professionals. Students benefit from a unique learning model combining online coursework with limited in-person sessions (1-2 days weekly), enabling academic progression while maintaining professional and personal commitments. The program emphasizes comprehensive clinical training across diverse counseling settings, guaranteeing internship experiences and preparing graduates for the projected 22% job market growth in counseling. Military-friendly and featuring expert practitioner faculty, this program equips students with advanced clinical skills, psychological research expertise, and practical knowledge for high-demand mental health careers.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • 4-year doctoral program
  • In-person 1-2 days weekly
  • Guaranteed internship experience
  • High job market demand
  • Comprehensive clinical training
  • Diverse counseling settings
  • Expert practitioner faculty
#4

Union Institute & University

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - myunion.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology

Concentration: Clinical Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Union Institute & University offers a distinctive hybrid online Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology designed for working professionals seeking advanced clinical training. The program uniquely blends virtual coursework with periodic on-campus intensives, enabling students to maintain professional commitments while pursuing doctoral education. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and diversity, the curriculum prepares psychologists for leadership roles in clinical settings. Applicants must possess a master's degree in psychology or a related field, with admission requiring comprehensive letters of recommendation and a compelling personal statement. Financial aid opportunities and a military-friendly environment further distinguish this innovative doctoral program.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Clinical Psychology concentration
  • Requires master's degree
  • Financial aid available
  • Focus on evidence-based practice
#5

Saybrook University

Pasadena, CA - Private 4-year - saybrook.edu

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Saybrook University's online hybrid Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology offers an innovative approach to psychological education, blending rigorous academic research with humanistic training. The program uniquely integrates cognitive behavioral techniques with mindfulness and existential perspectives, preparing students for diverse professional paths in research, clinical practice, and leadership. Emphasizing multicultural understanding and personal growth, students complete 100-109 total credits through a flexible learning model that combines virtual coursework and residential experiences. The program appeals to professionals seeking comprehensive psychological training without traditional classroom constraints, with a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement and opportunities for specialized focus across multiple domains of psychological practice.

  • 5-year doctoral program
  • Hybrid online learning model
  • 100-109 total credits
  • Humanistic psychology focus
  • Virtual and in-person experiences
  • Multiple specialization options
  • Residential learning experiences
  • Dissertation required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
*U.S. Department of Education, NCES, IPEDS 2023 data files.

What Will I Learn in an Online Clinical Psychology Doctorate Program?

Doctorate degrees in a particular field require in-depth study, either with a research-oriented (Ph.D.) or a clinically oriented (PsyD) approach.

The Ph.D. focuses on academic and scholarly study, requiring extensive research and writing. It takes four to six years to complete, allowing two years for classes and two to four years for research.

The PsyD focuses more on practical application through clinical practicum and internships. It involves 1,500 hours of practicum at a minimum. The degree takes most students three years to complete.

Either doctorate can prepare you for rewarding and high-level positions within the field of clinical psychology. While online programs make completing coursework much more convenient, keep in mind that there may be some courses and clinical requirements that must be completed in person.

Admissions Requirements for a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs can be fairly competitive, and you'll have to exceed the minimum requirements in order to gain admittance to most programs. Those minimum requirements are varied by program (see UC San Diego for an example). Requirements for both online and campus-based programs are usually the same. You’ll generally need:

  • A bachelor’s or master's degree in psychology (master's preferred)
  • A solid GPA that at least meets the program's minimum (normally 3.5)
  • Transcripts detailing courses taken and grades
  • Acceptable scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
  • Letters of recommendation from professors and/or professionals
  • Personal statement explaining your reason for applying to the program
  • CV detailing professional and academic accomplishments
  • Interview with a faculty member of the program
  • Application fee (usually $100 or less)

Online Ph.D. programs may expect you to have extensive research experience, possibly within or outside of a master’s program. Online Psy.D. programs may require several years of clinical experience or at least substantial experience through a master’s practicum.

2026 Affordable PhD/PsyD in Clinical Psychology Program Options

Finding an affordable doctoral program in clinical psychology can help students pursue their career goals without overwhelming financial strain. With rising education costs, students seek programs that balance quality training and reasonable tuition rates. Clinical psychology doctoral programs represent significant investments in professional development, particularly across major regions like California, New York, and Texas. Prospective students should carefully evaluate program offerings, considering factors beyond just price, such as research opportunities, faculty expertise, and clinical training resources. By exploring diverse options, students can discover programs that align with their academic interests and budgetary constraints. The following table highlights several doctoral-level clinical psychology programs that offer competitive pricing and comprehensive educational experiences across the United States.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
CUNY City College
  • 100% Tuition Covered First Year
  • 3% Competitive Admissions Rate
  • 4+ Years Clinical Practicum
  • 4:1 Student-Faculty Ratio
  • Community Mental Health Focus
  • Multiple Therapy Modality Training
  • Psychodynamic Theoretical Approach
  • On-Site Clinical Training Center
  • $9,100 - $13,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $16,700 - $25,000 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Purdue University Northwest
  • Five-year full-time doctoral program
  • 120 total credit curriculum
  • Clinical sites in Northwest Indiana
  • Interdisciplinary training opportunities
  • Competitive program cost
  • 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
  • Initiating APA accreditation process
  • Teaching assistantship opportunities
  • $5,100 - $7,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $9,300 - $13,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Eastern Kentucky University
  • 120 Credit hours to graduate
  • Full-time, in-state tuition $716/credit
  • Free textbooks for students
  • 27 credit hours of practicum
  • APA-accredited program
  • Rural mental health focus
  • Up to 33 transfer credits
  • Multiple internship opportunities
  • $8,500 - $12,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $11,500 - $17,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Analysis based on: NCES IPEDS 2023 survey data.

2026 Shortest Clinical Psychology PhD/PsyD Program Options

Exploring doctoral programs in clinical psychology requires careful consideration of time investment and academic goals. Students seeking the quickest pathways to professional certification can benefit from researching programs with accelerated timelines. These streamlined doctoral options help professionals enter the field faster, reducing overall educational duration while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Shorter programs often appeal to working professionals and individuals eager to begin clinical practice or research careers. By focusing on efficient curriculum designs, these programs balance comprehensive training with reduced time commitments. Prospective students should examine graduation and retention rates, understanding that shorter programs can offer significant advantages in career progression and reduced student debt.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
George Washington University
  • Child and Adolescent concentration
  • 83 credit hours required
  • Full-time internship
  • No GRE required
  • TOEFL/IELTS for non-natives
  • Psychodynamic training
  • Cognitive behavioral therapies
  • Community interventions
  • Graduation Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 92%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Mercer University
  • Four-year full-time program
  • Biopsychosocial healthcare approach
  • Interprofessional training
  • Clinical practicums in Atlanta
  • One-year full-time internship
  • Located in Atlanta, GA
  • Full-time program
  • Emphasizes research skills
  • Graduation Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
University of California-Irvine
  • Six-year program with full funding
  • Clinical science research model
  • Interdisciplinary School of Social Ecology
  • One-year full-time clinical internship
  • Diverse research opportunities
  • Guaranteed funding first five years
  • Minority-serving institution commitment
  • Holistic admissions approach
  • Graduation Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 94%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
*Source: NCES, IPEDS 2023 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs

Find an online or campus-based doctorate program in clinical psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Jump to City:

Arizona

Flagstaff, AZ

Northern Arizona University
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 107 total units required
    • 2000 hours clinical practice
    • Hybrid program format
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Comprehensive professional competencies
    • Leads to potential licensure
    • Diverse clinical training opportunities
    • Individualized research required

California

Pasadena, CA

Saybrook University
  • Doctorate - Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 5-year doctoral program
    • Hybrid online learning model
    • 100-109 total credits
    • Humanistic psychology focus
    • Virtual and in-person experiences
    • Multiple specialization options
    • Residential learning experiences
    • Dissertation required

Santa Barbara, CA

Fielding Graduate University
  • Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

    Concentration: Forensic Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • APA-accredited doctoral program
    • Distributed learning model
    • No GRE required
    • $10,385 per term
    • 5-6 year completion time
    • Focuses on social justice
    • Multiple therapeutic orientations
    • Forensic Psychology concentration available
  • Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

    Concentration: Health Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • APA-accredited doctoral program
    • Distributed learning model
    • No GRE required
    • 5-6 year completion timeline
    • Tuition $10,385 per term
    • Social justice focused curriculum
    • Faculty are active practitioners
    • Supports diverse student populations
  • Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

    Concentration: Neuropsychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • APA-accredited doctoral program
    • Distributed learning model
    • No GRE required
    • Designed for working professionals
    • Social justice focused training
    • $10,385 per term tuition
    • 5-6 year completion time
    • Flexible online/residential format
  • Doctorate - PhD in Clinical Psychology

    Concentration: Neuropsychology, Psychotherapy Research, Health Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • APA-accredited doctoral program
    • Distributed learning model
    • No GRE requirement
    • $10,385 per term
    • 5-6 year program duration
    • Focuses on social justice
    • Flexible for working professionals
    • Multiple therapeutic orientations

Stockton, CA

University of the Pacific
  • Doctorate - PsyD in Counseling Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • 4-year doctoral program
    • In-person 1-2 days weekly
    • Guaranteed internship experience
    • High job market demand
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Diverse counseling settings
    • Expert practitioner faculty

Ohio

Cincinnati, OH

Union Institute & University
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology

    Concentration: Clinical Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • Clinical Psychology concentration
    • Requires master's degree
    • Financial aid available
    • Focus on evidence-based practice
*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2023 survey.

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