There are more than thirty specializations within psychology, and doctoral degrees are offered in all of them. Some areas of specialization include clinical, school, physiological, social, and many others. A psychology doctorate is first and foremost a research degree in which students learn psychological research methodology and statistics, and must carry out independent research. Students in clinical and counseling specialties, as well as some other specialties, such as health psychology, will also study principles of psychopathology, behavior change and psychotherapy. Other specialties, such as experimental psychology and cognitive psychology, will focus exclusively on research. Courses vary considerably based on area of study, and there are few courses beyond history of psychology and statistics that are common to all.

Ph.D. in Psychology

Many doctoral degree programs in psychology require applicants to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. Other Ph.D. programs require a master’s degree in psychology or a related field of study. Applicants typically must have a 3.0 GPA or higher. Many programs request submission of GRE scores, a personal essay or portfolio and letters of recommendation. Interviews may also be part of the admissions process.

Students develop a solid foundation in history and methods of psychology, research methodology and statistics. In addition to courses, students complete original research and write a dissertation. Students in clinical doctoral programs may complete practica and an internship year. Some possible courses include:

• Psychology theories and practice
• Psychology and ethics
• Human development
• Diagnosing psychopathology
• Research methodology and statistics

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

School, clinical and counseling psychologists can expect to see job growth around 15% for the years 2018-2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). These workers made a median annual wage of $78,200 in 2019.

Continuing Education Information

Private practice child and family psychologists follow APA and ASPPB state requirements for continuing education licensure. School psychologists may also need to gain certification and licensure through their state’s department of education. Certification requirements vary by state.

Prospective students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology should pay particular attention to the specific field and specialization that they would like to study. Upon completing a psychology doctorate, students will be able to apply to a variety of psychology-related careers in schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practice.

doctorate in psychology programs

The American Psychological Association recognizes three distinct categories of doctoral programs: clinical, counseling, and school psychology. Clinical psychology emphasizes compiling and analyzing research data about individuals, while counseling psychology students focus more on treating mental and emotional health issues. School psychology programs explore issues surrounding child and adolescent mental development.

Students interested in teaching or research roles can earn a Ph.D. in psychology, while candidates planning to go into private practice or work with patients may pursue a Psy.D.

This page covers everything you need to know about pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology. Read on to learn how to choose the right school and degree program.

Pros | Cons

It Takes Longer to Earn the Doctorate Degree in Psychology

Most doctorate degree in psychology programs can be completed in four to seven years. This, of course, is the longest possible amount of time a psychology professional can expect to spend on their schooling. The time commitment requires a student’s full attention, and it is for this reason that some students elect to move straight from their bachelor’s in psychology to their Ph.D. in psychology.

Pro

While students will be pledging a great deal of time and effort towards their academic pursuits, those who choose to pursue their Ph.D. in psychology will find that this is the most lucrative career move.

Con

At times, it can be very hard for Ph.D. in psychology students to juggle work, internships, clinical training and psychology studies. What’s more, almost all Ph.D. in psychology candidates go on to continue their research and training for one to two years after graduation; these externships and practical experiences must be present in order to qualify most Ph.D.s for work.

Once Graduated with a Ph.D. in Psychology, You Enter the Workforce as an Authority in the Field

Part of enrolling and earning a doctorate degree in psychology is making the time and the connections that will allow students to gain intensive practical experience after graduation.

Pro

Ph.D. in psychology candidates with some experience are often preferred to master’s degree in psychology candidates who may have more hands-on skills.

Con

Some evidence suggests that Ph.D. in psychology candidates can oversaturate a market. In these cases, employers will be inclined to hire a candidate with more life experience (such as a master’s degree) and lesser academic credentials.

The Doctorate Degree in Psychology is Versatile

Because a Ph.D. in psychology is a terminal credential for the majority of occupational psychologists, earning a doctorate degree in psychology in this broad field can offer candidates a certain amount of flexibility when searching for a career. For example, while there may not be many opportunities in a graduate’s chosen field right away, a doctorate degree in psychology is an excellent credential for those who may be interested in teaching at the college or university level.

Pro

Nearly all fields of psychology have room for those with a Ph.D. in psychology credential.

Con

May need to relocate due to low demand in some regions of the country.

There is a High Return on Investment

It could be argued that the cost of earning a Ph.D. in psychology is not consummate to the annual earnings for an average doctor of psychology. Some data points to the fact that the amount psychologists earn has much more to do with the industry in which they are employed than with their academic credentials. However, the disparity between the earnings for a bachelor’s and master’s degree graduate and a doctorate degree in psychology are substantial.

Pro

Psychologists can earn upwards of $100,000, according to the BLS. The median pay for 2018 was $79,010.

Con

To offset the cost of tuition, doctorate degree in psychology students often must find fellowship, assistantship and paid internship opportunities in their area or through their university.

How Can I Guarantee My Acceptance Into a Doctorate Degree in Psychology Program?

• The most important thing an applicant can do to increase their chances of being accepted into a doctorate degree in psychology program is to take part in research. Clinical trials and data analysis are some of the most vital components of a psychology career. Psychologists focus as much on mental and behavioral health as they do studying and understanding human behavior.
• Completing relevant internships and practicums demonstrates a commitment to independent research and looks great on a doctorate degree in psychology application.
• Prospective Ph.D. in psychology candidates can increase their chance of acceptance by cultivating professional relationships with a community of peers. Many do so by joining alumni associations, reaching out to colleagues on LinkedIn, and participating in professional organizations.
• Subscribing to pertinent magazines, forums and workshops that are popular among others in the field. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) is a good source for information on this topic.

Should I Get a Ph.D. or a Psy.D.?

The Ph.D. and Psy.D. degrees differ in a variety of ways. Students should consider each option carefully before choosing a program.

Ph.D. in psychology programs take between five to seven years to complete, and typically include one year-long internship. These programs sometimes admit fewer students, as they tend to offer more funding opportunities. Ph.D. programs place a stronger emphasis on research, including more coursework in research methods and statistics, and more research-based opportunities during the program. Graduates may pursue careers in research or academia.

The Psy.D. is a doctor of psychology degree instead of a doctor of philosophy degree. Psy.D. programs take between four and five years to complete, including an internship year. These programs are tailored more towards clinical practice, placing less of an emphasis on research. This track may particularly benefit students who wish to work directly with clients in clinical settings.

Both degrees prepare candidates to seek licensure as clinical psychologists. However, Ph.D. programs may best suit individuals who wish to conduct research or teach in colleges and universities after graduating.

What Should I Expect in a Doctorate Degree in Psychology Program?

Degree Completion Specifics

• Number of Required Credits: 60-125
• Typical Length of Program: 5-7 years
• Culminating Experience Project/Paper/Exam: Yes
• Practicums/Internships: Yes