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

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

Find Doctoral Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

Psychology is a discipline that is applicable to many fields, from business and marketing to mental health and family systems. Because this field of study can be used in so many ways, many students choose to take their education to the doctoral level in order to prepare for a specific career path in psychology. Earning a doctoral degree gives you the freedom to focus on a specific area of practice and apply your general psychology education to specific career skills and settings.

The clinical applications of psychology are among the most widely used. If you want to work in a medical setting, teach postsecondary students, or conduct research on various areas of psychology, a Psy.D. or Ph.D. in psychology in Pennsylvania is necessary. Achieving this level of education helps you successfully prepare for the licensing process in this state. If you are interested in becoming a clinical psychologist and working independently in your field, contact Pennsylvania psychology programs to get started.

Getting Your Doctorate Degree in Psychology in Pennsylvania

As you start comparing psychology Ph.D. programs, Pennsylvania schools may have different admissions requirements that you should know about. Generally, programs at this level of study are fairly competitive. A Bachelor’s degree in psychology may give you an edge, but you may still be accepted to a program with a Bachelor’s degree in a separate area of study.

Whether you have a psychology degree or a different degree, academic excellence is extremely important. You should have an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, and if you have a psychology undergraduate degree, a GPA of 3.5 in your major courses is recommended. Relevant work experience, whether from paid work or an internship, demonstrates your dedication to this field.

Pennsylvania Student Studying Online For Psychology Doctorate Degree

As an aspiring doctoral student, you should spend some time comparing programs in Pennsylvania. Ph.D. programs are available at a significant variety of schools, providing the chance to study clinical psychology, health psychology, social psychology, child psychology, and other specialties. You may find that you are responsible for building a strong base of research skills on top of becoming a competent clinician. Some of the courses you may take in a Ph.D. program are listed below:

  • Psychopathology
  • Social Psychology
  • Social and Emotional Development
  • Psychological Assessment
  • Diagnostic Interviewing
  • Ethics and Professional Standards
  • Research Methodology
  • Techniques of Data Analysis
  • Dysfunctional Behavior or Psychopathology
  • Consultation and Supervision

The other option is a Psy.D., which focuses primarily on clinical work, applications of research to clinical practice, and professional ethics. If you pursue this degree path, required courses may include:

  • Methods of Intervention
  • Clinical Group Techniques
  • Family Therapy
  • Psychological Assessment
  • Advanced Psychopathology
  • Personality Theory and Systems of Psychotherapy
  • Models of Learning
  • Historical Trends in Psychology
  • Clinical Research Methods

Generally, clinical hour requirements are similar between schools. You should get some clinical experience every semester and at least one year of full-time supervised work.

Working With Your Doctoral Degree in Psychology in Pennsylvania

To become a psychologist in Pennsylvania, you must earn your license through the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology. You may begin this process right before you graduate in order to complete your testing requirements as soon as possible.

Salaries for psychology professionals in Pennsylvania tend to be fairly close to what is reported in other states. The average salary for a clinical, school, or counseling psychologist is $69,420 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016). Psychology professors earn an average of $58,100 per year (BLS, 2016).

The job outlook for these careers is positive in Pennsylvania. Demand for psychologists may increase 17% through the year 2022 (O*Net, 2016). Psychology professors may enjoy a 7% increase in demand during this time (O*Net, 2016). Your personal job outlook may improve as you gain experience, professional contacts, and additional training in line with industry standards.

If you are ready to become a psychologist and use your education to improve the lives of Pennsylvania residents, take the first step now by contacting doctorate in psychology Pennsylvania programs below.