Home Doctorate in Psychology Psychology Ph.D. and Psy.D. Degree Programs in Idaho

Psychology Ph.D. and Psy.D. Degree Programs in Idaho

Find Doctoral Degree Programs in Idaho

The demand for mental health support is a national issue. The Affordable Care Act requires insurance companies to cover mental health services, which has allowed many people to finally get the counseling and medications they need. However, this has also led to a problem for people who need prompt care, as they may not be able to get an appointment for several weeks. For patients with mental health issues, that wait is often too long to prevent tragedy.

With a Ph.D. or Psy.D. degree in Idaho, you could do your part to relieve this burden on the mental health industry. Both degrees give you the chance to become a licensed psychologist, participate in research, or even teach the next generation of psychology students. These programs are well suited to Bachelor’s degree graduates, and they typically require approximately seven years of education.

There are differences between these degrees, as well as different specialty options to consider. Learn more about your options by contacting Ph.D. in psychology programs in ID.

Getting Your Doctorate Degree in Psychology in Idaho

Earning a doctorate in psychology is a major undertaking, so be ready to study full-time for the entire time you are pursuing this degree. Full-time work is typically prohibited, and some schools also prevent students from part-time work. However, you may find that you get more relevant experience as a Ph.D. student.

Idaho schools have different financial aid packages. The most common form of financial aid in a Psy.D. or Ph.D. program is full or partial tuition plus a monthly stipend. There are 10-hour and 20-hour work commitments available, typically for research assistants and teaching assistants.

If you anticipate a career that includes clinical work, research, and teaching, a Ph.D. may be your best option. This degree uses the scientist-practitioner model, which blends clinical experience with extensive research knowledge.

Idaho Student Studying For Online Psychology Doctorate Degree in Library

In this degree program, you earn approximately 90 credits by taking courses like:

  • Statistics and Research Design
  • Psychodiagnostics
  • Developmental Psychology and Education
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Child Psychopathology
  • Multivariate Statistics and Research
  • Advanced Measurement in Research
  • Advanced Clinical Ethics

Psy.D. programs are fairly similar to Ph.D. options, but they have a greater emphasis on clinical treatment. You’ll spend less time conducting research and more time getting experience with patients of different needs.

As you compare curricula, you may find that Psy.D. programs offer courses like:

  • Adult Pathopsychology and Treatment
  • Psychoeducational Evaluation
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Child Psychotherapy
  • Psychotropic Medications

Your skills and knowledge are assessed multiple times throughout your education. In your second year, you may write and defend a Master’s thesis. Some schools require you to apply for doctoral candidacy before you are accepted. After passing a comprehensive exam, you plan and write a dissertation. Over the course of your education, you may also complete over 1000 hours of clinical work.

Working With Your Doctoral Degree in Psychology in Idaho

When you enter the field of psychology, your work is under the oversight of the Idaho Board of Psychological Examiners. However, APA accredited Psy.D. programs in Idaho should thoroughly prepare you for this process. You must submit proof of graduation, official transcripts, documentation of two years of supervised experience, and proof of a passing score on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology.

Your salary may fluctuate throughout your career, depending on the positions you take and how much experience you have. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that psychologists earn an average salary of $68,570 per year, compared to an average salary of $57,020 per year for psychology professors (2016).

The job outlook is similar for both paths. A 12% boost in job openings for psychologists is expected by 2022, and psychology professors may see a 15% increase in job openings (O*Net, 2016). Your career path may take you into private practice, nonprofit organizations, private and public educational institutions, and healthcare organizations.
The next step is to learn more about your local options. Use the list of schools below to contact Psy.D. and Ph.D. in psychology programs in Idaho.