Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Degree
A Doctor of Psychology, or PsyD, is a graduate-level degree that prepares students to work in the clinical treatment of patients. Those considering entering this role may wish to explore the types of courses and requirements to obtain this degree. Here’s what you should know.

2026 Best Online Doctor of Psychology
Northeastern University
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Doctorate - PhD in School Psychology
Concentration: Optional concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis - Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern University's PhD in School Psychology offers a robust doctoral program with a distinctive focus on Applied Behavior Analysis. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that blends advanced research methodologies with practical intervention strategies. The APA and NASP accredited program prepares professionals to address complex educational challenges through evidence-based practices. With multiple entry points for bachelor's and master's degree holders, the program emphasizes a scientist-practitioner training model. Students engage in extensive fieldwork, including 75-hour pre-practicum, two 600-hour advanced fieldwork experiences, and a one-year pre-doctoral internship, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to support diverse student populations in academic and clinical settings.
- APA and NASP Accredited
- Optional Applied Behavior Analysis
- Full-time doctoral program
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Multiple fieldwork experiences
- Enter with bachelor's/master's
- 75-hour pre-practicum included
- Two 600-hour advanced fieldwork
- One-year pre-doctoral internship
- Dissertation research required
Doctorate - PhD in School Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern University's PhD in School Psychology delivers an intensive doctoral experience designed to cultivate educational psychology leaders. The program's scientist-practitioner approach empowers students to develop advanced research skills and innovative intervention strategies. Graduates are prepared to address critical academic and mental health needs across various educational environments. With flexible admissions and optional GRE submission, the program welcomes diverse candidates. Students benefit from mentored research projects, comprehensive fieldwork opportunities, and a curriculum that emphasizes practical application of psychological principles. The full-time program provides robust training for future professionals seeking impactful roles in universities, schools, and clinical settings.
- APA and NASP Accredited Program
- Full-time Doctoral Program
- Optional Behavior Analysis Concentration
- Extensive Supervised Fieldwork
- Multiple Entry Points (BA/MA)
- Research-Focused Curriculum
- Mentored Research Projects
- Dissertation Required
- Flexible Admissions Requirements
- Optional GRE Scores
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, FL - Private 4-year - fit.edu
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology, Psy.D.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Tech's Clinical Psychology Psy.D. delivers a robust practitioner-scientist training model designed to cultivate advanced mental health professionals. With strategic admission of only 20 students annually, the program provides intensive clinical skill development through diverse supervised experiences. Students explore comprehensive psychological assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and research methodologies across varied clinical environments. The curriculum emphasizes integrated behavioral health approaches, neuropsychological insights, and forensic psychology applications, preparing graduates for dynamic careers in mental health services. APA accreditation ensures high-quality training, while extensive faculty research and on-campus clinical facilities enhance practical learning opportunities.
- APA-accredited clinical psychology program
- Approximately 20 students per year
- Practitioner-scientist training model
- Diverse practicum placement opportunities
- Specialized emphasis areas available
- One-year supervised internship required
- Multiple career path opportunities
- Extensive faculty research experience
- On-campus clinical training facilities
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology, Psy.D.
Concentration: Neuropsychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Tech's Neuropsychology-focused Clinical Psychology Psy.D. offers a specialized, research-driven program targeting advanced understanding of brain-behavior relationships. Rigorously designed and APA-accredited, the curriculum integrates comprehensive neurological disorder assessment and treatment techniques. Students engage in supervised practicums, research initiatives, and a mandatory one-year internship, developing nuanced clinical competencies. The competitive program, accepting approximately 20 students annually, provides in-depth training in psychological assessment, clinical interventions, and specialized neuropsychological methodologies. Graduates emerge equipped with sophisticated diagnostic skills and comprehensive knowledge to address complex neurological and psychological challenges.
- Accredited by APA.
- Focus on Neuropsychology.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Competitive admission.
- Includes one-year internship.
- Research opportunities available.
- Supervised practicums included.
- Covers psychological assessment.
- Emphasizes clinical interventions.
- Elective courses in specialties.
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology, Psy.D.
Concentration: Forensic Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Tech's Forensic Psychology Psy.D. concentration provides an innovative, service-oriented pathway for aspiring forensic mental health professionals. The program combines rigorous academic training with extensive practical experiences across legal and clinical settings. Students develop advanced skills in psychological assessment, diagnostic techniques, and professional interventions specifically tailored to forensic contexts. With an intentionally small cohort of 20 students annually, the program ensures personalized mentorship and comprehensive clinical exposure. Supervised experiences in hospitals, mental health clinics, and court systems prepare graduates to navigate complex intersections between psychology and legal frameworks, fostering exceptional professional competence.
- APA accredited program
- Specialized forensic psychology concentration
- 20 students per year
- Extensive clinical training opportunities
- One-year supervised internship required
- Multiple practicum site options
- Comprehensive clinical psychology training
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu
Doctorate - Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology delivers a robust five-year doctoral program preparing health service psychologists through innovative, evidence-based training. The comprehensive curriculum spans 119 credits, offering students extensive clinical experience across 15 on-campus clinics. With nearly 100% internship matching rates, the program strategically prepares graduates for state licensure through diverse patient population interactions. APA-CoA accredited, the program emphasizes practitioner-informed methodologies, enabling students to develop advanced clinical skills essential for contemporary psychological practice.
- APA-CoA Accredited Doctoral Program
- Five-year comprehensive curriculum
- Seven specialized concentrations
- 15 on-campus clinical training sites
- Nearly 100% internship matching rates
- Prepares for state licensure
- Campus-based in Fort Lauderdale/Davie
- Minimum 119 total credits required
- One-year clinical internship
- Evidence-based practitioner model
Doctorate - Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology
Concentration: Clinical Forensic Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's Clinical Forensic Psychology concentration within the Psy.D. program provides specialized training at the critical intersection of psychology and legal systems. Students develop sophisticated skills in crime prevention, expert witness testimony, and jury consultation through a comprehensive five-year curriculum. The APA-accredited program offers unique collaborative opportunities with law enforcement and legal professionals, ensuring graduates are equipped to navigate complex forensic environments. With a rigorous one-year clinical internship and emphasis on evidence-based practices, students gain comprehensive preparation for professional licensure in forensic psychology.
- APA-CoA Accredited Program
- Five-year doctoral curriculum
- 119 total credit hours
- Clinical Forensic Psychology concentration
- One-year clinical internship
- 15 on-campus working clinics
- Nearly 100% internship match rate
- Prepares for state licensure
- Specialized forensic psychology training
Doctorate - Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology
Concentration: Clinical Health Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's Clinical Health Psychology concentration within the Psy.D. program offers transformative training for aspiring psychological healthcare professionals. This APA-accredited doctoral pathway emphasizes applying psychological principles to healthcare settings, focusing on patient outcome improvement and potential public health policy influence. Students receive comprehensive training in evidence-based assessment and intervention methods across diverse clinical contexts. The five-year curriculum provides extensive clinical experiences, preparing graduates to become sophisticated health service psychologists capable of addressing complex healthcare challenges through advanced psychological interventions.
- APA-CoA Accredited Program
- Five-year doctoral curriculum
- Minimum 119 total credits
- One-year clinical internship
- Specialized Clinical Health Psychology track
- Diverse clinical experience opportunities
- Nearly 100% internship matching rate
- On-campus Fort Lauderdale/Davie location
- Prepares for state licensure
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA - Private 4-year - pepperdine.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pepperdine University's Doctor of Psychology program in Clinical Psychology stands out as an exceptional practitioner-scholar training pathway. Over four intensive years, students receive comprehensive preparation through an APA-accredited curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practices and multicultural competencies. The program distinguishes itself with an extraordinary 97% internship placement rate and 100% alumni licensure success. Students gain advanced clinical skills across four university-based clinics and diverse Southern California placements, developing sophisticated assessment and intervention techniques. With a competitive 12:1 faculty-student ratio, the program provides personalized mentorship and integrates scientific practice approaches. Financial accessibility is enhanced through scholarship opportunities and a per-unit tuition of $1,970, making advanced psychological training more attainable for aspiring clinicians.
- 4-year doctoral program
- APA-accredited through 2027
- 97% internship placement rate
- 100% alumni licensure
- $1,970 per unit tuition
- Practitioner-scholar training model
- Four university-based clinics
- Science-informed practice approach
- 12:1 faculty-student ratio
- Multicultural emphasis
University of San Francisco
San Francisco, CA - Private 4-year - usfca.edu
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology, PsyD
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of San Francisco's PsyD in Clinical Psychology provides an intensive, practice-driven training pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. Spanning 5-6 years, the program offers comprehensive skill development in psychological assessment, treatment, and intervention strategies. Students engage with diverse populations and complex mental health challenges, preparing for professional licensure through rigorous clinical training. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, including a full-year clinical internship that equips graduates with the practical competencies needed to address a wide spectrum of psychiatric conditions and mental health needs.
- 5-6 years program length
- Full-time clinical internship
- Multiple clinical specialization options
- Prepares for state licensure
- Practice-oriented clinical training
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology, PsyD
Concentration: Child Clinical Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of San Francisco's PsyD in Clinical Psychology with a Child Clinical Psychology concentration offers specialized training in pediatric mental health. This comprehensive program prepares professionals to address complex childhood conditions like autism and developmental disorders. Students develop advanced diagnostic and therapeutic skills specific to children's psychological needs, with a curriculum designed to support clinical practice in hospitals, schools, and private settings. The 5-6 year program includes extensive clinical internship experiences, emphasizing practical training and evidence-based interventions tailored to pediatric populations.
- Child Clinical Psychology concentration
- 5-6 years program length
- Campus-based learning
- Clinical internship included
- Prepares for licensure
- Specific coursework required
- Focus on children's mental health
- Work in hospitals, clinics
- Private practice opportunities
- Licensure preparation
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology, PsyD
Concentration: Neuropsychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of San Francisco's PsyD in Clinical Psychology with a Neuropsychology concentration provides advanced training in cognitive assessment and brain-behavior relationships. This specialized program prepares students for intricate clinical work involving intelligence testing, developmental delay assessments, and neurological disorder evaluations. Students gain comprehensive skills in neuropsychological diagnosis and intervention across various clinical settings. The 5-6 year curriculum combines rigorous academic study with extensive practical training, including a clinical internship, positioning graduates for successful careers in hospitals, research institutions, and private neuropsychological practice.
- 5-6 years program length
- Neuropsychology concentration
- Campus-based program
- Requires clinical internship
- Licensure preparation included
- Practice-oriented clinical work
- Specific admission coursework
- Prepares for various work settings
George Washington University
Washington, DC - Private 4-year - gwu.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in the Field of Clinical Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
George Washington University's Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology offers a comprehensive program designed to cultivate advanced clinical practitioners. Spanning five years and comprising 83 graduate credits, the curriculum integrates psychodynamic training with cognitive behavioral approaches. Students gain extensive hands-on experience across diverse clinical settings including hospitals and schools. The program uniquely eliminates GRE requirements while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Admission requires a psychology-related bachelor's or master's degree, three recommendation letters, and a compelling statement of purpose. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. The program's hallmark is its intensive one-year full-time internship, preparing graduates for complex psychological practice.
- 83 credits required
- Psychodynamic training focus
- Hands-on clinical experience
- One-year full-time internship
- GRE not required
- English language requirements
- Three recommendations needed
- Statement of purpose required
- Diverse clinical settings
- Five-year completion limit
Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in the Field of Clinical Psychology
Concentration: Adult - Campus Based - Visit Website
Targeting professionals seeking specialized clinical psychology training, George Washington University's Adult Concentration Doctoral Program provides an immersive learning experience. The curriculum explores advanced psychological foundations, integrating biological, cognitive, and cultural perspectives. Students engage in comprehensive scientific training across multiple clinical domains, developing sophisticated intervention strategies. With no GRE requirement, the program emphasizes practical skills through extensive clinical exposure. The 83-credit program features a mandatory one-year internship and offers multiple specialized tracks. Virtual interviews and three recommendation letters are part of the admission process, ensuring candidates demonstrate potential for advanced psychological practice.
- 83 total graduate credits required
- One-year full-time internship
- Three specialized tracks available
- No GRE required
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Virtual interview mandatory
- Bachelor's in psychology preferred
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- Comprehensive psychotherapy training
Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in the Field of Clinical Psychology
Concentration: Assessment - Campus Based - Visit Website
George Washington University's Assessment Concentration Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology offers a sophisticated research-oriented curriculum. Designed for aspiring clinical assessment specialists, the program provides comprehensive training in advanced psychological evaluation techniques. Students navigate 83 credits of intensive coursework, emphasizing sophisticated diagnostic methodologies and evidence-based assessment strategies. The program distinguishes itself by waiving traditional GRE requirements while maintaining high academic standards. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic. A one-year full-time internship ensures graduates develop practical skills across diverse clinical settings, preparing them for complex psychological assessment roles.
- 83 credits required
- Focus on Assessment concentration
- Hands-on practical experience
- No GRE required
- TOEFL/IELTS for non-natives
- One-year full-time internship
- Psychodynamic training
- Diverse clinical settings
- Three recommendations needed
- Statement of purpose required
Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology in the Field of Clinical Psychology
Concentration: Child and Adolescent - Campus Based - Visit Website
George Washington University's Child and Adolescent Concentration Doctoral Program presents a transformative educational experience for future pediatric mental health professionals. The curriculum integrates psychodynamic training, cognitive behavioral therapies, and community intervention strategies specifically tailored to child and adolescent populations. Spanning 83 credits, the program emphasizes practical externships and a comprehensive full-time internship. Without GRE requirements, the program focuses on developing nuanced clinical skills through diverse patient interactions. Admission requires a psychology-related degree, three recommendations, and a compelling statement of purpose. International students must meet English language proficiency standards, ensuring a rigorous and inclusive learning environment.
- 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
- Practical externships
- Three recommendations needed
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology, PsyD
Campus Based - Visit Website
California Baptist University's Doctor of Psychology program stands out for its innovative blend of rigorous clinical training and faith-integrated perspectives. Spanning five comprehensive years, the APA-accredited doctoral program prepares psychologists to deliver culturally sensitive, evidence-based care. Students engage in extensive practicum experiences, research teams, and a full-time internship, developing advanced clinical skills across diverse populations. With approximately $1,100 per unit tuition, the program offers multiple elective tracks and emphasizes scientific psychological practice alongside Christian worldview understanding. The curriculum uniquely combines academic excellence with spiritual depth, positioning graduates for impactful careers in clinical psychology.
- APA Accredited Doctoral Program
- 128 Total Program Units
- 5-Year Comprehensive Training
- Christian Faith Integration
- Three Years Practicum Experience
- Full-Time Internship Included
- Multiple Elective Tracks Available
- Culturally Sensitive Approach
- Research and Clinical Focus
University at Albany
Albany, NY - Public 4-Year - albany.edu
Doctorate - School Psychology Doctor of Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Albany's Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology offers a transformative educational journey for aspiring school psychologists. The APA-accredited program delivers comprehensive training across 91 credits, integrating advanced psychological theory with scientific research methodologies. Students benefit from an innovative curriculum emphasizing cultural competence, evidence-based interventions, and extensive supervised field experiences. With a robust 22-month practical training component and full-time residency requirement, graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners prepared to support diverse educational environments. The program uniquely combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, positioning students for impactful careers in school psychology.
- APA-accredited doctoral program
- 91 total credit minimum
- 22 months supervised experience
- Integrated theory-research-practice model
- Full-time residence requirement
- Comprehensive field training
- NYS teacher preparation program
Doctorate - PsyD School Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
University at Albany's PsyD in School Psychology represents a comprehensive doctoral pathway designed to cultivate exceptional educational and mental health professionals. Spanning five to six years, this practitioner-scholar program offers multiple credentialing opportunities, including a Master's degree and Certificate of Advanced Studies. NASP and APA accreditation ensures rigorous training in multi-tiered support systems, cultural diversity, and ethical practice. Students engage in extensive clinical experiences, meeting a 3.0+ cumulative GPA requirement and completing a substantive dissertation research component. The program's strategic design prepares graduates for diverse roles in school psychology, emphasizing both academic excellence and practical intervention skills.
- Five to six year completion time
- NASP and APA accredited
- Practitioner-scholar training model
- Extensive field experience hours
- New York State licensure eligible
- Cumulative GPA requirement 3.0+
- 12 psychology course credits prerequisite
- Dissertation research component
- Comprehensive exam requirement
- Multiple clinical training experiences
Touro University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - touro.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology
Concentration: Health Emphasis - Campus Based - Visit Website
Touro University's Doctor of Psychology program with Health Emphasis offers a distinctive pathway for clinical psychologists targeting integrated healthcare environments. Distinguished by its practitioner-scholar model, the program meticulously prepares 15 select candidates annually through an intensive five-year curriculum. Students develop advanced competencies in behavioral medicine and interdisciplinary patient care, accumulating over 1,350 externship hours across diverse medical settings. The program's rigorous training emphasizes evidence-based practices, positioning graduates for successful licensure and competitive careers in medical centers, VA hospitals, and specialized healthcare facilities. With a strategic focus on health psychology, students gain comprehensive skills addressing complex mental health challenges through innovative, research-driven clinical training.
- Unique Health Emphasis PsyD
- Five-year full-time program
- 15 program slots annually
- 1350+ externship hours
- Located in Manhattan
- Practitioner-scholar training model
- Integrated healthcare focus
- Evidence-based clinical training
- Competitive admissions process
- Licensure preparation
Long Island University
Brookville, NY - Private 4-year - liu.edu
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Long Island University's Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program offers a comprehensive APA-accredited training pathway for aspiring psychologists. Utilizing a practitioner-scholar model, the program provides dual-orientation training in Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Students receive extensive professional development opportunities focused on high-risk family assessment, substance use disorder interventions, and integrated psychotherapy techniques. The program uniquely prepares graduates to serve diverse populations through robust theoretical and clinical training. Key strengths include professional flexibility, specialized concentration areas, and a commitment to addressing complex psychological challenges in various clinical settings.
- APA-accredited doctoral program
- Practitioner-scholar training model
- Two therapy orientation tracks
- Concentration areas available
- Serves underserved populations
- Clinical psychology doctorate
- NY State Education registered
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program
Concentration: High-Risk Families - Campus Based - Visit Website
Long Island University's Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, specializing in High-Risk Families, delivers an intensive four-year doctoral program. Students engage in a comprehensive 115-credit curriculum designed to develop advanced clinical competencies through a practitioner-scholar model. The program emphasizes hands-on training, including on-campus practicum at the Psychological Services Center and external clinical placements. Focused on complex family dynamics and trauma intervention, students gain specialized skills in assessing and treating high-risk populations. Extensive supervised clinical experiences and research opportunities prepare graduates for nuanced professional practice in diverse psychological settings.
- Four-year full-time doctoral program
- 115 total credits required
- Practitioner-scholar training model
- Specialized High-Risk Families concentration
- Extensive clinical training opportunities
- On-campus Psychological Services Center
- External clinical placements
- Comprehensive supervision approach
Doctorate - Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program
Concentration: Treating Addictions - Campus Based - Visit Website
Long Island University's Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program with a Treating Addictions concentration provides comprehensive training in substance use disorder interventions. This four-year, 115-credit program integrates psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral approaches to addiction treatment. Students receive intensive practical training through on-campus practicum and external clinical placements, developing advanced assessment and intervention skills. The practitioner-scholar model ensures graduates are equipped with sophisticated clinical techniques for addressing complex addiction challenges. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, the program prepares professionals for diverse clinical settings specializing in substance use disorder treatment.
- Four-year full-time doctoral program
- 115 total academic credits
- Practitioner-scholar training model
- Concentration in Treating Addictions
- Extensive clinical externship experiences
- Psychodynamic and CBT approaches
- On-campus Psychological Services Center
- Supervised clinical training
- Two theoretical orientation focus
- Dissertation research requirement
What Are the Various Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD) Degree Specialties?
Earning your doctorate in psychology will open up the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of psychology. Here are some options for specialization for psychology doctorate students:
- Doctorate of Applied Behavior Analysis
- Doctorate of Applied Psychology
- Doctorate of Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Doctorate of Child Psychology
- Doctorate of Clinical Psychology
- Doctorate of Counseling Psychology
- Doctorate of Developmental Psychology
- Doctorate of Educational Psychology
- Doctorate of Engineering Psychology
- Doctorate of Forensic Psychology
- Doctorate of Geropsychology
- Doctorate of Industrial Organizational Psychology
- Doctorate of International Psychology
- Doctorate of Neuropsychology
- Doctorate of School Psychology
- Doctorate of Social Psychology
- Doctorate of Sports Psychology
Can I Get a PsyD Online?
There are some colleges that may allow for the completion of some or portions of the PsyD degree online. This includes accredited programs designed to help students to complete their education while working or meeting other obligations.
PsyD vs. Ph.D. in Psychology
A PsyD education is a bit different than earning a Ph.D. in Psychology. Both educational paths are doctorate-level education. Typically, a Ph.D. path will prepare students to work in one of many areas of psychology, while the PsyD degree is designed more for those who just want to work in clinical environments, working hands-on with patients.
The Ph.D. path typically focuses on the following:
- Significant research-based education
- Education so students can work in clinical practice, research, or academia
- Provides a wide range of clinical setting skills
- More difficult to get into, though numerous programs exist
The PsyD path typically focuses on the following:
- Education for those who want to run a practice or work directly with patients
- Typically has a strong clinical focus with less research
- Prepares students by teaching a wide range of clinical skills and working with patients
- Takes less time to complete due to fewer research and statistics courses
What Can I Expect in an Online PsyD Program?
Students completing a PsyD program are likely to spend a significant amount of their time focused on skill-building, though research may be a smaller component of the educational path. Without a doubt, this type of program is competitive and will be challenging as it is a terminal degree in the field. Typically, students will need to complete 119 credits, though programs differ.
Some of the most common courses for those in this field may include:
- Adult psychopathology
- Professional ethics
- Assessment and intelligence testing
- Child and adolescent development
- History and systems of psychology
- Interviewing assessment
- Psychopharmacology
- Clinical practicum
One of the keys to this program is that it does not typically require a significant amount of research. As a result of this, students are likely to have to complete a dissertation or may need to complete another project.
What Are the PsyD Admission Requirements?
Typically, schools will require students entering this program to have a master's degree in psychology. Many will require a 3.0 GPA or better, depending on the competitiveness of the program. Students often need to complete an interview with the faculty and submit a resume to showcase the work they have done to this point.
Often, there is the need to submit letters of recommendation from mental health professionals, a goal statement, and an outline of why a person should be considered for the position. Each school's requirements are a bit different, and some programs are more lenient than others available to students.
What Is the Length of a PsyD Program?
A typical PsyD program can be completed in four to six years. That is shorter than the typical Ph.D., which requires five to eight years in most cases. More so, there is often the ability to complete this education over time online, which could help to make it a bit easier for some students.
How Much Does a PsyD Cost?
Costs for a PsyD program range widely based on the school. Many students will need to consider the specific educational goals they have. Online programs are likely to cost much less. Overall, a private college or university is likely to cost about $34,000 a year for this educational path.
There are often options for financing your PsyD, such as applying for a loan (See FASFA for example) or a grant (see the Pell Grant for example).
Popular Psychology Specialties
There are many specialty areas that psychologists can pursue. Whether you want to work with a specific client population or focus in on a niche area of mental health, there's a career pathway out there for you. The following are some popular psychology specialties - visit our Psychology Careers page for more.

Child Psychologist
Child Psychologists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. They work with children and their families to develop treatment plans that address specific issues and promote overall well-being.
Forensic Psychologist
Forensic Psychologists utilize psychological techniques in the criminal justice system; not only in understanding the criminal mind and devising profiles but also in designing programs for crime prevention.
School Psychologist
A School Psychologist is a trained professional who works within a school setting to support students' academic, social, and emotional development. They use their knowledge of psychology and education to help students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
List of Psychology PsyD Degree Programs
Find an online or campus-based PsyD program in Psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.
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
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
Maine
Portland, ME
University of Southern Maine
- Doctorate - School Psychology, Psy.D.
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 111 total graduate credits required
- 600 hours of practica
- 1,500 hour predoctoral internship
- Multiple professional credentialing options
- Meets national and state certification standards
- Optional MS in Educational Psychology
- Hybrid program format
- Dissertation research required
New Hampshire
Nashua, NH
Rivier University
- Doctorate - Psy.D. in Counseling and School Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Website
- APA fully accredited program
- Minimum 5-year doctoral program
- 60-130 total credit hours
- $1,275 per credit cost
- Practitioner-scholar training model
- Weekday evening course schedule
- Multiple practicum experiences
- 2000-hour internship required
New Jersey
Lakewood, NJ
Georgian Court University
- Doctorate - School Psychology, Psy.D.
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid and evening program delivery
- Cost: $1,070 per credit
- Two program pathways available
- 47-112 total credits
- 420 practicum hours
- 1,500-1,750 hour internship
- No GRE required
- High job placement rate
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
Virginia
Lynchburg, VA
Liberty University
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Psychology
Concentration: Behavioral Health Leadership - Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format
- 60 credit hours
- SACSCOC accredited
- Military discount available
- Flexible course selection
- Focus on leadership and research
- Prepares for academic and administrative roles
- Integration of Christian values