Doctorate in Psychology Programs
(found programs from 337 schools)

If you are truly committed to becoming a psychologist, earning your doctorate is a necessity. A clinical or counseling license will require the degree, as will many academic and higher level research positions.

Should you pursue a PhD or a PsyD?

You actually have two degree choices. The best one for you depends on what you ultimately want to achieve. A Doctor of Psychology degree, often called a PsyD is a treatment-focused degree, ideal if you want to apply your knowledge in a clinical setting. Some PsyD degree holders do research and teach, but most are interested in treating people. A Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology or PhD is a more research-based degree for research and teaching positions in academic settings, hospitals or governmental agencies. Some PhD holders do clinical work, but it is not the focus of the degree.

What are admissions requirements like?

You do not need a master's degree to start on your doctorate. You just need a bachelor's - and that doesn't even need to be in psychology. What is important is that your degree is from a well-regarded school and that you've earned topnotch grades. If you are applying to competitive schools or if you want merit-based scholarships, you need to match a high GPA with stellar scores on the Psychology GRE. It helps tremendously if you can show some research experience. Find psychology research projects in your field of interest, volunteer, and work hard. That track record counts, and a recommendation from a supervisor will help your chances as well. Don't neglect the personal statement. You aren't just a number when you join a doctoral program. The admissions committee wants to understand who you are and why you want in. The statement needs to be compelling and well-written.

What are the programs themselves like?

Whichever degree path you take, you are making a major time and financial commitment. It can take four to six years to complete your degree, and the process involves much more than mere classroom work. For the PsyD degree, you will apply the scientific method and behavioral science knowledge in clinical settings. You will also get training in research methods, theories and practice involving various mental illnesses and treatments. Most programs require a supervised practicum in a clinic. Lastly, you'll need to write a doctoral dissertation. If you are applying for national or state licensure, you need to tack on two years of a supervised internship after you have earned your doctorate in order to practice and treat patients.

The PhD in psychology is slightly more demanding in terms of time than the PsyD. Your work will include greater in-depth exposure to past and current theories and will have a heavy research focus. You will need to complete a clinical internship and a supervised residency. You will also need to write a doctoral dissertation, which includes your own original research. You are eligible to apply for national and state licensure with this degree as well, but many who pursue the PhD are looking to focus on teaching and research work.

Accreditation of psychology doctorate programs

Make sure to check accreditations for any program you consider. The usual regional accreditations apply, but look also for accreditation by the American Psychological Association. A number of specialized organizations offer additional accreditation including the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE), Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) , and the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Take the time to check out the criteria and meaning of each accreditation listed as not all are equally valuable.

Some additional resources

Scholarships and grants abound, but getting them is easily as competitive as getting into a good doctoral program. You can find national as well as local chapter-based grants and scholarships at the National Honor Society on Psychology Psi Chi (http://www.psichi.org/Awards/). The American Psychological Association (APA) maintains an online directory of funding options (http://www.apa.org/about/awards/index.aspx).

Once you have decided that you want to earn your doctorate, deciding where to go is an important next step. A helpful page from the Social Psychology Network ranks clinical doctoral programs (http://www.socialpsychology.org/ranking.htm). Brick and mortar schools generally do not offer online PhD or PsyD degrees due to the need for extensive interpersonal interaction along with in-person practicums and internships.

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