distance learning phd clinical psychology

• Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
• Areas Of Study
• Humanistic Psychology And Humanistic Clinical Psychology

Degree Requirements: Bachelor’s or master's degree

Completion Time: 5 years (full-time status)

Earned Credits: Entering with a bachelor’s degree: 103–109 credits. Entering with a master’s degree in psychology or related field: 100–106 credits

Preparing students to sit for licensure in many states, Saybrook University's online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program is specifically focused on the knowledge and practical skills needed to enter professional practice. Students enrolled in this program develop the ability to conduct ethical and effective psychotherapy based on psychological research rooted in multicultural and humanistic-existential psychology. Though not required, students can focus their studies further by using electives to declare certain specializations. There are other specializations from other degree programs that are also open to clinical psychology students. The specializations students can declare include:

• Advanced Psychological Assessment* (APA) ( *open to CP students only )
• Applied Psychophysiology (APH)
• Complex Trauma and the Healing Process (CTHP)
• Consciousness Spirituality Integrative Health (CSIH)
• Creativity Studies (CS)
• Existential and Humanistic Psychology (EHP)
• Jungian Studies (JS)

Going beyond the mechanics of the body and brain, this program focuses on a holistic view of clients in a broader social and system context—directing students toward the person-centered and interpersonal dimensions of psychotherapy that are at the heart of therapeutic effectiveness.

Like the M.A. and Ph.D. in Psychology degree programs, the clinical psychology degree program is grounded in existential, humanistic, and transpersonal psychology, seeking to apply such principles in all areas for clinical practice and research. More specifically, Saybrook’s clinical program is rooted in humanistic psychology and studies human experience in deeply subjective, historical, contextual, cross-cultural, and spiritual contexts. Each program is designed for graduates to promote health and wholeness as practitioners who are positioned to effect positive change through service and leadership in their chosen clinical field.

Saybrook University’s Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) but does not have programmatic accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA). The hybrid online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program may not meet year-in-residence requirements of some state professional licensing boards or agencies. To be eligible, graduates should consult their individual state licensing boards for any additional state-specific requirements.

Saybrook University’s Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology aligns with program requirements for professional licensure in several states. You will find more information on licensure on the professional licensure and certification disclosures page .

More program information can be found in our academic catalog .

“Grounded in humanistic principles, we are interested in fostering the ‘fullness’ of the clinician, aligning who they are with how they practice, in the healing process of populations being served.” —Dr. Theopia Jackson, chair,  clinical psychology degree program

Find Your Community at Saybrook

Residential Orientation (RO)

All new students in the Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program begin their studies with our one-time, two-day Residential Orientation (RO). ROs are held two days ahead of the Residential Learning Experience (RLE) at the start of the fall and spring semesters in California.

Residential Learning Experience (RLE)

Clinical psychology students participate in two five-day required Saybrook Residential Learning Experiences (RLEs) per year for the duration of the program (one at the beginning of the fall semester and one at the beginning of the spring semester). Students are required to attend the RLEs throughout their degree matriculation to ensure that they acquire ample residential hours required by states for eligibility for licensure.

If a student must miss an RLE due to a documented medical emergency or other approved reason, the student must notify the department chair or associate chair in advance. Students will be expected to make up a missed RLE, which is to be preapproved by the department chair. Failure to meet the residential requirement may delay graduation.

Students intending to earn their license in Washington State are required to attend an additional mid-term RLE held in Washington each term of enrollment. This requirement is due to Washington State expecting more in-person hours than the fall/spring RLEs afford.

Determinations regarding professional licensure eligibility associated with this program are outlined here .

PSY3045: Supervision in Clinical Psychology

Clinical supervision is a necessary aspect of training for clinicians. Through supervision, a clinician-in-training gains necessary clinical competencies in order to ensure that trainees’ clients receive effective and ethical service. This course critically examines methods, relationships, ethics, multiculturalism, and evaluative processes of clinical supervision. Special focus is given to establishing a meaningful supervisor-supervisee relationship. While students will learn about different theoretical orientations that may inform their supervisory experience, they will be encouraged to consider their role in these relationships from a humanistic standpoint that will foster growth in the supervisor, supervisee, and their clients. They will be asked to explore ways of navigating and growing from supervisory relationships that may be challenging or uncomfortable. In addition, students will be encouraged to reflect on their current progress, as well as goals in their own development as clinicians. Though open to all students, this course satisfies the Clinical Interventions III/IV requirement in the Clinical Psychology degree program, with Clinical Interventions I & II as prerequisites. Note: This course is open to CP students only. (3 credits)

PSY6070: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Applied within a Humanistic and Integrative Approach

This cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) course will offer a review of key foundational theories and concepts, as well as methods of assessing, conceptualizing, and treating patients using CBT approaches. Students will also learn about the efficacy and limitation evidence for utilizing CBT in treating symptoms of several disorders. In addition to learning the key concepts of CBT and practicing core skills, students will examine how CBT can be integrated with humanistic and other integrative therapy approaches. Though open to all students, this course satisfies the Clinical Interventions III/IV requirement in the Clinical Psychology degree program, with Clinical Interventions I & II as prerequisites. (3 credits)

PSY6050: Mindfulness and Spirituality in Clinical Practice

Mindfulness-based therapies are now accepted as “empirically supported” treatments and are often treatments of choice in mainstream clinical and medical settings. In addition, the prior mainstream taboo regarding spiritual and religious dimensions of life in psychotherapy has been supplanted by the publication of a plethora of texts published by the APA and others regarding the integration of these dimensions in clinical practice. This clinical course explores these recent trends that mirror aspects of the long-standing traditions of humanistic, transpersonal, and existential psychology in the integration of mindfulness-based meditation practices, spirituality, and religion and prayer in clinical practice. Through reflective inquiry, students will gain understanding regarding their own experience and views regarding these factors in therapy and how they might locate themselves in relationship to them professionally. Though open to all students, this course also satisfies the Clinical Interventions III and IV requirement in the Clinical Psychology degree program, with Clinical Interventions I & II as prerequisites. (3 credits)

No FAQs found.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Program

Q: What is an Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology ?

• A: An Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology trains students in the practice of presenting psychological research, preparing them for clinical psychology practices in the professional world. The Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology offers an education with a wide range of career options, including teaching, clinical patient care practice, clinical psychology research, and more. 

Q: Is the Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology 100% online? 

• A: Yes! The Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology curriculum is offered completely online. However, there are both Residential Orientations and Residential Learning Experiences that students must attend as an academic requirement. 

Q: What are the requirements for completion of the Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology ?

• A: Students in the Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program must complete the degree  program and coursework required by their chosen state. States also have licensing requirements beyond a program’s graduation requirements that may, depending on the state, include postdoctoral supervised experience, continuing education credits, examination(s), background check, and application for license.

Q: How long does it take to complete the Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology?

• A: The Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology degree can be completed in five years with full-time student status. 

Q: What specializations are offered for the Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology ?

A: Specializations within the  Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology include Advanced Psychological Assessment* (APA) (*open to CP students only), Applied Psychophysiology (APH), Complex Trauma and the Healing Process (CTHP), Consciousness Spirituality Integrative Health (CSIH), Creativity Studies (CS), Existential and Humanistic Psychology (EHP), and Jungian Studies (JS).

• PhD in Clinical Psychology
• Clinical Concentrations

PhD in Psychology

• PhD in Psychology with an emphasis in Media & Technology
• PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development
• Media Psychology
• Master’s in Media Psychology
• Media Psychology Certificate
• Postbaccalaureate Certificate in Clinical Psychology
• Postdoctoral Certificate in Respecialization in Clinical Psychology
• Neuropsychology Specialization Training Program
• PhD Degree Completion Program
• PhD in Human Development
• PhD in Organizational Development and Change
• EdD Leadership for Change
• Doctoral Concentrations
• Master’s in Organization Development and Leadership
• Evidence Based Coaching Certificate
• ALL PROGRAMS
• COURSE CATALOG
• Request for Information
• Upcoming Info Session
• Degrees & Programs
• Transfer Credits
• Scholarships & Fellowships
• Tuition & Fees
• Office of Admissions
• Office of Financial Aid
• Veterans Services
• Office of Student Services
• myFielding (University Intranet)
• Moodle (Learning.Fielding.edu)
• Library Student Login
• One-Stop Student Center
• Contact An Advisor
• Student Advising
• REQUEST INFO
• 800.567.8910
• Alumni Events
• Alumni News
• Alumni Services

with an emphasis in Applied Psychological Science

A conventional doctoral program delivered in an unconventional way.

" * " indicates required fields

*All Fields are required. By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted regarding your request and are confirming you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

for the Working Professional

$9,890/ term

Learning Model

NEXT START DATE

Jan. 6, 2025

Program Director for Psychology

Nora P. Reilly, Ph.D.

PhD in Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Psychological Science

Fielding offers a program that focuses on the application of psychological theories and methods to such real-world settings as communities, business, industry, education, government, and the military.  It applies core knowledge found within social psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, human factors, and research methods/statistics to answer student-inspired practical questions.

Fielding’s doctoral program in Psychology has a unique learning model that employs the best distance learning opportunities. Students will gain expertise by conducting psychology research at the doctoral level after securing a breadth of knowledge in the core fields of psychology, then taking a deep dive into a focal area of interest (e.g., teaching psychology). Graduates are well-suited for academic positions in colleges and universities as well as applied positions in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Graduates who are already clinicians can also apply their doctoral-level thinking and knowledge to improve their clinical practices.

APPLY NOW for SPRING 2025

Unique learning model, application requirements.

Earning your doctorate in Psychology includes attending live video seminars and conducting research with faculty. Faculty and other students meet annually at professional conferences to present and discuss research. In addition, students have the option to attend School of Psychology in-person academic sessions. The unique distance learning model provides flexible opportunities for individuals with career, family, and community responsibilities to achieve their advanced educational goals. Faculty are active scholars and practitioners with a wide variety of expertise, making it possible to offer training in a variety of specialized concentrations in some of the most exciting growth areas of psychology.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Online Application Form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose
• Critical Thinking Writing Sample
• 2 Letters of Recommendation
• Official Transcript
• No GRE Required

Start your application NOW!  

HYBRID APPROACH

Distinction from Related Programs

Most psychology doctoral programs require a certain specialization, like clinical or media psychology. This general psychology PhD program does not require a certain specialty, thereby giving students the breadth of psychology knowledge while allowing specialty in an area of interest to the student. This is unique among psychology doctoral programs. In addition, this program can be completed in three years, which is also unique.

Psychology PhD Program is Designed for:

Future University Faculty:  this program provides the expertise and degree needed for full-time faculty positions at colleges and universities

o   Teaching of Psychology is an available area of focus

Future Independent Researchers: this program provides the expertise, experience, and degree needed to be an independent researcher in a variety of settings (universities, research institutes, organizations, etc.)

Mental Health Professional: this program provides expertise, skills, and degree needed to apply doctoral-level thinking and research to clinical work

o   Psychotherapy research is an available area of focus

Anyone working in any area that would benefit from expertise in psychology

Anyone wanting to create their own area of focus within psychology

School of Psychology News

The latest news and special events from Fielding’s School of Psychology.

• Dr. Okokon Udo Appointed Program Director for EBC Certificate and ODL Master’s

By Fielding News | 2024-09-11T13:58:55-07:00 September 11th, 2024 |

• Provost Wendi Williams to Give Keynote at the University of Victoria Climate Complexity & Decolonization Speaker Series

By Fielding News | 2024-09-11T14:02:16-07:00 September 10th, 2024 |

• RAC Leadership Establishes an Award Supporting Organizational Research at Fielding

By Fielding News | 2024-09-09T14:50:09-07:00 September 9th, 2024 |

Fielding’s Psychology Program:

PhD in Psychology Completed in 3 Years! No GRE Required!

The fielding experience.

• Become a member of a dynamic and diverse community of colleagues
• Interact with and learn from our expert faculty located all across the country
• Engage with alumni, faculty, and other students at sessions

Why Choose Fielding for Your Psychology Degree?

A conventional doctoral program delivered in an unconventional way

Join Over 7,500 Fielding Alumni Located Around The World!

Change the world. Start with yours.™

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Your Location * Your Location USA Canada International
• Program of Interest * Program of Interest PhD in Clinical Psychology PhD in Psychology with an Emphasis in Media & Technology PhD in Psychology PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development PhD in Human Development PhD in Organizational Development and Change EdD in Leadership for Change MA in Organization Development and Leadership MA in Infant, Child, Family Mental Health and Development MA in Applied Media Psychology Certificate in Evidence Based Coaching Certificate in Media Psychology Neuropsychology Specialization Training Program Postbaccalaureate Certificate in Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Certificate of Respecialization in Clinical Psychology

Contact Info

Fielding Graduate University 2020 De la Vina Street Santa Barbara, California 93105

Phone: 1-800-340-1099 Admissions: 805-898-4026

Email: [email protected]

Web: Fielding.edu/apply-now

Recent Posts

• Best Online Doctorates In Psychology

Best Online Doctorates In Psychology Of 2024

Updated: Mar 28, 2024, 12:13pm

Psychologists don’t just work one-on-one with patients to treat behavioral and mental health issues. Today, psychologists advise corporations, study cognitive science and the brain, coach athletes to peak performance and help students thrive in school.

In addition to clinical counseling, an online doctorate in psychology can lead to well-paying work in diverse fields like education, business, social services, nonprofit management and community organizing.

To help with your search, Forbes Advisor reviewed 43 programs and ranked eight schools that met our criteria. Each school demonstrates a commitment to student experience, outcomes, credibility and affordability. Programs include Ph.D.s, Psy.D.s and Ed.D.s, with specializations like leadership, community or educational psychology. Explore our recommendations below.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked eight accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online doctoral degrees in psychology in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We listed all eight schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

• Best Master's In ABA Online Degrees
• Best Online Master’s In Counseling Psychology
• Master’s In Counseling
• Best Online Psychology Degrees
• Best Online Psychology Master’s Degrees

Best Online Doctorates in Psychology

Should you enroll in an online psychology doctoral program, accreditation for online doctoral programs in psychology, how to find the right online doctorate in psychology for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in psychology, national louis university, liberty university, keiser university-ft lauderdale, university of the southwest, the chicago school at los angeles, southern california seminary, william james college, adler university.

Graduate Tuition

$800/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

This Chicago-based college was founded in 1886 with a mission to train elementary school teachers. Today, National Louis University (NLU) offers a fully online Ph.D. in community psychology to prepare professionals for work in areas including housing, urban education, child abuse and substance abuse.

NLU teaches the foundations of community psychology and encourages learners to research topics that pique their interest. Coursework provides training in quantitative and qualitative methods, grant writing, advocacy, and community development. Online learners complete an internship and dissertation in addition to coursework. NLU offers both synchronous and asynchronous formats.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 69 to 72 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Community organizing, statistics for community psychology
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, internship required

$595/credit (full-time)

Liberty University ’s Ph.D. in psychology teaches human behavior from a biblical perspective. This nonclinical, nonlicensure program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Liberty offers six specializations, including social psychology and developmental psychology. Learners conduct their own research, with the opportunity to present their work at conferences. Optional on-campus intensive courses allow students to deepen their academic and professional skills alongside faculty and classmates.

Current and former military members and their spouses qualify for discounted tuition at $300 per credit.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Psychological research and biblical worldview, teaching of psychology
• Concentrations Available: Behavioral health leadership, developmental psychology, general psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, social psychology, theology
• In-Person Requirements: No, but optional in-person intensives offered

$528/credit (in-state)

The Fort Lauderdale branch of Keiser University , Florida’s largest private, nonprofit university, offers a research-based online Ph.D. in psychology. The program employs a “scholar-practitioner” model that integrates leading research and professional practices into the classroom experience.

The school offers hybrid and fully online programming. Online learners have access to technical support and academic counseling. With courses held in eight-week terms, students can complete the program in as little as 36 months.

Keiser also offers a baccalaureate entry path; admitted students only need a bachelor’s degree before starting their Ph.D.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Behavioral neuroscience, sociocultural basis of behavior
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, two residencies required

$799/credit (in-state)

The University of the Southwest (USW) offers a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in educational psychology. The degree suits professionals who work or hope to work in educational leadership and administration. USW’s curriculum focuses on four key areas: leadership foundations, organizational dynamics and change, strategic planning, and research. With an optional self-design track, learners can customize their specialization courses.

Online learners receive free virtual healthcare and a free laptop in their first course. The tuition price includes the cost of all textbooks and course materials. Students can also access leading software designed to guide them through the dissertation process.

Two clinical residencies provide real-world experience. They can be completed in person or virtually.

• Application Fee: N/A
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Organizational dynamics of human behavior, advanced study of educational psychology
• In-Person Requirements: No, but optional in-person residencies offered

$1,703/credit

The Chicago School at Los Angeles ’ Ph.D. in international psychology prepares learners to work in organizations with global missions. In addition to classwork, the program features an international internship and real-world training opportunities. Students complete two on-campus residencies and two international field experiences.

Learners must pass written and oral comprehensive exams and complete an original dissertation addressing a gap in international psychology’s professional study. The nonlicensure program can be completed in three and a half years.

• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Foundations of international psychology; ethics and professional development
• Concentrations Available: Organizations and systems, trauma services
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, residencies and international trip required

$650/credit (in-state)

Southern California Seminary ’s nonlicensure Psy.D. program uniquely integrates theology and psychology to prepare learners for private counseling, local church ministry, or work in a service or institutional setting. The El Cajon-based school also offers an M.A. to Psy.D. track, which requires a minimum of 99 credits.

Students can choose between four emphases: psychology, educational psychology, international/multicultural psychology and industrial/organizational psychology. Classes begin every seven weeks.

In addition to academic requirements, learners must demonstrate moral integrity and be recommended for graduation by at least four faculty members.

• Application Fee: $85
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 to 73 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Advanced psychosocial basis of behavior, hermeneutics
• Concentrations Available: Psychology, educational psychology, international/multicultural psychology, industrial/organizational psychology
• In-Person Requirements: No

$1,675/credit (in-state)

William James College ’s Psy.D in leadership psychology integrates hands-on experience with classroom learning to deeply explore how humans function as leaders and followers. Full-time students can complete the program in four years, while part-time students may take six years.

Students can concentrate in four psychology subject areas or participate in a co-curricular college-wide concentration such as Asian or Latino mental health.

The blended program features a mix of online synchronous activities, like webinars and team projects, as well as asynchronous discussion boards, readings, and pre-recorded lectures. Program graduates complete 900 hours of supervised field training: a 600-hour practicum and 300-hour internship. Practicum sites include Comcast and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. The college is based in Boston, Massachusetts.

• Application Fee: $60
• Degree Credit Requirements: 68 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: The neurobiology of leadership, organization development and change
• Concentrations Available: Educational leadership, inclusive leadership, leading nonprofits and NGOs, neuroscience of leadership psychology
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for required residencies

$972/credit (in-state)

The online Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology by Chicago-based Adler University helps graduates reach their full potential in organizational settings. Elective courses teach skills like consulting, talent management and entrepreneurship.

Learners without a master’s degree can enroll in a 90-credit post-bachelor’s program; those with a master’s degree in a related field can finish in as little as three years. To graduate, learners must pass a comprehensive exam and complete a dissertation in addition to a 200-hour social justice practicum at an aligned community site.

• Application Fee: $32
• Degree Credit Requirements: 90 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Organizational theory; job and task analysis
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, practicum required

While an online psychology doctoral degree has its upsides, it isn’t the right move for everyone. In light of the huge commitment of time and money—to say nothing of effort—think hard about factors like budget, scheduling and learning style.

Online doctoral programs often cost less than campus programs since they allow you to save on big-ticket expenses like housing and transportation. Plus, some state schools extend in-state tuition rates to all online learners, regardless of their state residency status.

Online learning provides flexibility to work around work and family obligations. However, some programs mix asynchronous lessons with synchronous events like discussion groups.

Remote learning works well for disciplined self-starters. But if you need the accountability and support that come with in-person learning, an online doctoral program might not be a good fit for you.

There are two kinds of accreditation to consider in online psychology doctoral programs: institutional and programmatic.

Institutional accreditation is given by bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). To receive federal financial aid, you must attend an accredited institution. Several institutions on this list have earned accreditation by regional agencies like SACSCOC or the Higher Learning Commission.

Programmatic accreditation proves that a degree has been vetted to meet certain academic standards. The primary accreditor for post-graduate psychology programs in the U.S. is the American Psychology Association (APA), which accredits Ph.D. and Pys.D. programs. APA accredits specific degrees, not departments. You can find programs using APA’s accredited programs search tool . WHAT

To confirm a college’s accreditation status, search CHEA’s directory .

Consider Your Future Goals

To choose the best program for you, think through your long-term career goals. This helps inform whether you should pursue a Psy.D. or Ph.D. and what kind of field experience you may need to complete.

Programs vary in their focus on clinical application of psychological principles versus research and classroom instruction. For example, William James College’s Pys.D. in leadership psychology allows learners to work an additional 150 practicum hours beyond the program requirement. The extra hands-on experience could help you prepare for more specialized psychology careers .

A degree from an APA-accredited program is required for some employment opportunities and, in some states, licensure. If you intend to become a licensed psychologist after graduation, make sure your program prepares you for this path.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

The programs on this list vary greatly in terms of cost. On the high end, the Chicago School at Los Angeles charges $1,703 per credit. At $528 per credit, Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale offers the cheapest option. Both programs require 60 credits, putting our range between about $31,000 and $102,000.

Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to learn about financial aid opportunities. Other financing options to explore include assistantships, scholarships, grants and loans.

How long does it take to get a doctorate in psychology?

A psychology doctorate typically takes four to six years, but some programs can be completed in less time. In addition to coursework, programs generally require clinical or practicum hours and a dissertation.

Is it worth it to get a doctorate in psychology?

A doctorate in psychology is not easy to obtain, but it can help you land an in-demand job that tends to pay well. However, many people pursue this degree out of personal interest rather than a desire for financial gain.

Is a Psy.D. higher than a Ph.D.?

Both degrees concern the same subject matter, but a Psy.D. focuses on clinical practice, while a Ph.D. has more to do with scientific research. Ph.D., or Doctor of Philosophy , programs are more common and contain more sub-fields. A Psy.D., or Doctor of Psychology, focuses on preparing students to serve clients and patients.

Is a psychology doctorate hard?

Doctorate programs are generally difficult and take a long time to complete. The vast field of psychology features training in both the natural and social sciences. In addition to years of coursework, most psychology doctorate programs require supervised practicum hours and an original dissertation.

Garrett Andrews is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Political Science at Portland Community College where he teaches State and Local Government.

College of Allied Health: PhD in Clinical Psychology

• College of Allied Health
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Clinical Psychology

Note on Licensure

Learning outcomes, minimum degree requirements, course sequence.

• Program Handbook

9-year Maximum Time Frame

Ms in psychology, applied psychology specialization (embedded degree).

• PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership

Program Website  

Walden’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program can prepare students to practice, teach, or research to positively impact the mental health of diverse clientele.

In this blended doctoral program, featuring online and in-person participation, students can gain the skills to assess mental wellness and provide interventions as a practitioner, educator, researcher, or consultant. Taught by respected psychology faculty, coursework explores current theories and empirically supported practice. Students can combine scholarly research with practical experience to build the skills and knowledge to work with people who are struggling with mental illness or general life issues.

The PhD in Clinical Psychology program is designed to prepare graduates to qualify to sit for psychology licensing exams in some states. This program is designed to meet the academic licensure requirements of some state psychology boards. However, Walden University’s PhD in Clinical Psychology is not accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and has not received designation by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards/National Register (ASPPB/NR), which are requirements for licensure in many states.

Walden enrollment specialists can provide guidance on licensure issues, state-by-state educational requirements, and internship and practicum requirements; however, it remains the student’s responsibility to evaluate and understand the licensure requirements for the state in which he or she resides, as requirements vary widely. Walden University enrollment specialists can provide general guidance on licensure requirements; however, it is the responsibility of each student to understand and comply with the most current psychology licensure information for his or her individual state. Walden makes no guarantee that its PhD in Clinical Psychology program will meet the licensure requirements in any state.

Prospective students should review the specific, detailed licensure requirements applicable to their state(s) of residency to see if the Walden program meets all of the requirements to sit for licensure as set forth in the state regulations. Additionally, some states have additional coursework, residency, or fieldwork requirements that students will need in order to be eligible for licensure as a psychologist in that state.

Prospective students enrolling in licensure-leading programs are advised that relocation to another state may impact the student’s ability to complete field experiences and/or to obtain professional licensure, certification, or other credential in another state. Prospective students are advised to carefully review, evaluate, and understand the requirements of the applicable licensure board in the state in which they intend to relocate.

At the end of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Evaluate the origins and development of major ideas in the discipline of psychology, as well as major theories of psychology.
• Critique the basic content areas of scientific psychology including the breadth, range, and depth of the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social aspects of behavior. 
• Apply integrative knowledge in scientific psychology including the ability to integrate, evaluate, analyze, and conceptualize multiple discipline specific content areas. 
• Integrate advanced knowledge and applied skills in psychometrics, research, quantitative, and qualitative methods. 
• Synthesize the principles of research methods in order to independently formulate, conduct, and disseminate research and related scholarly activities. 
• Critique and apply relevant research in the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions in clinical decision making, as well as evaluate treatment effectiveness, goals, and methods consistent with ongoing evaluation. 
• Communicate competency in the application of APA ethics and codes, as well as the relevant laws, regulations, policies, rules, professional standards, and guidelines in the practice of clinical psychology. 
• Model professional values and attitudes including integrity, comportment, identity, accountability, lifelong learning, self-reflection and care, and concern for others welfare in all relationships. 
• Demonstrate professional competence, including professionalism, respect for diversity, and relational competency
• Demonstrate competence in the profession specific clinical competencies, including diagnosis, assessment, and psychotherapeutic interventions.
• Integrate knowledge of individual and cultural diversity in professional practice.
• Doctoral Writing Assessment
• Professional Development Plan and Program of Study
• Foundation course (1 credits)
• Core courses (54 credits)
• Research courses (25 credits)
• Electives courses (5 credits)
• Research Skills Labs (0 credit per term for a minimum of 5 terms)
• Professional Development Series (0 credit per term for a minimum of 12 terms)
• Field Experience Preparation Course (0 credit)
• Clinical practicum (6 credits)

Internship (12 credits)

• Blended Academic Year in Residence (40 credits; 45 credits for Illinois students)
• Dissertation writing courses (20 credits; taken continuously until completion)
• Completion of a beginning-of-quarter, mid-quarter, and end-of quarter plan for each term
• Four PhD residencies

Foundation Course (1 credit)

Core courses (45 credits).

• Students may take this as a non-degree course.
• Students may take this a non-degree course.

Research Courses (25 credits)

Elective courses (5 credits)*.

For the General program, select one course from any of the PhD in Clinical Psychology specialization courses as an electives. 

* 5 credit Elective course is not required for Illinois students

Specializations Not Currently Accepting New Students

Specialization in forensic psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in health (not currently accepting new students), specialization in industrial and organization psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in teaching (not currently accepting new students), research skills labs (0 credits), professional development series (0 credits), clinical practicum (6 credits), blended academic year in residence (40 credits; 45 credits for illinois).

The courses associated with the Blended Academic Year in Residence (BAYR) must be completed consecutively within a 12-month calendar year. Students that stop the course sequence and do not complete in a consecutive calendar year will need to resume the BAYR course sequence again from the beginning.

* PSRI courses are for Illinois students only

Residency Requirements

• Residency 1 – Complete in term 2. Required alongside CPSY 8401 Doctoral Research Seminar 1 and CPSY 8781 Psychopathology From a Clinical Perspective.
• Residency 2 – Complete in term 5.
• Residency 3 – Complete in term 8. Residency 3 required in term 8. Required alongside CPSY 8403 Doctoral Research Seminar 2 and CPSY 8209 Ethics and Standards of Psychological Practice.
• Residency 4 Genera l

Completion of the Doctoral Dissertation

Students are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. To complete a doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

*Students are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

Field Experience Preparation  

Walden is committed to providing students with resources and support in preparation of field experience(s). To help ease anxiety in the field experience process, Walden offers a 0-credit Field Experience Preparation course, a structured experience that guides students through the application process and currently available readiness resources. The course is designed to complement other pre-requisite courses needed in preparation for field experience(s). The goal is that students submit their field experience application by the end of the course. Of course, there may be reasons why a field experience needs to be postponed, or the readiness course may not be needed if a field experience opportunity has already been secured. In this instance, students may opt-out of the course.  By opting out of the Field Experience Preparation course without having submitted a complete field experience application you are notifying Walden that you have chosen to delay the beginning of your field experience indefinitely, it is your responsibility to notify Walden when you plan to begin the field experience component of your program. In some instances, opting out of the Field Experience Preparation course indicates the foundational components of the field experience process have been satisfied and submission of the field experience application is pending. While the course is not yet available for Tempo students, the same readiness resources are available to Tempo students seeking field experience. 

Students have up to 9 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements ). Students may petition to extend the 9-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

Walden awards the MS in Psychology, Applied Psychology specialization degree to recognize PhD in Clinical Psychology students for academic achievement leading up to their dissertation. With an MS, students will be able to demonstrate a background in the development and application of psychological theories, basic scientific methods, and principles of psychological science.

Student Eligibility: PhD in Clinical Psychology students who began the program on February 26, 2024 and thereafter.

Eligible students may apply for this credential while continuing their PhD in Clinical Psychology program once they have:

• Successfully completed the following courses in the PhD Clinical Psychology program: CPSY 8002, CPSY 8225, CPSY 8215, CPSY 8421, CPSY 8225, RSCH 8110, RSCH 8210, CPSY 8315, CPSY 8781, CPSY 8401, CPSY 8403, CPSY 8405, CPSY 8247
• Achieved a required minimum 3.0 GPA.
• << Previous: Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
• Next: PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership >>
• Office of Student Disability Services

Walden Resources

Departments.

• Academic Residencies
• Academic Skills
• Career Planning and Development
• Customer Care Team
• Field Experience
• Military Services
• Student Success Advising
• Writing Skills

Centers and Offices

• Center for Social Change
• Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services
• Office of Student Affairs
• Office of Degree Acceleration
• Office of Research and Doctoral Services

Student Resources

• Form & Style Review
• Quick Answers
• ScholarWorks
• SKIL Courses and Workshops
• Walden Bookstore
• Walden Catalog & Student Handbook
• Student Safety/Title IX
• Legal & Consumer Information
• Website Terms and Conditions
• Cookie Policy
• Accessibility
• Accreditation
• State Authorization
• Net Price Calculator
• Cost of Attendance
• Contact Walden

Walden University is a member of Adtalem Global Education, Inc. www.adtalem.com Walden University is certified to operate by SCHEV © 2024 Walden University LLC. All rights reserved.

Recommended pages

• Undergraduate open days
• Postgraduate open days
• Accommodation
• Information for teachers
• Maps and directions
• Sport and fitness

PhD by Distance Learning

The University of Birmingham's College of Life and Environmental Sciences now offers PhD by Distance Learning.

This means that wherever you are in the world, you may now be able register with the University of Birmingham for your Doctoral qualification but undertake the majority of your studies in your home location.

Why study by distance learning? 

The main advantage of studying by distance learning is the flexibility. Financial and practical implications of moving closer to the campus make distance learning a more feasible option and could allow you to combine study with other commitments, including work and family.  Similarly, your research could be related to your area of residence and therefore moving would be detrimental to your capacity to carry out the research.

Is the distance learning route for you? 

The distance learning route to PhD study is not for everyone.  You have to have a very clear idea of your project and be able to motivate yourself.  Undertaking PhD study off campus can sometimes be quite isolating, so the ability to proactively seek out connections from within relevant research communities is important.  This route is well-suited to those who have a research project associated with their work or particular interests and where resources are available locally, over via the internet, to support your research e.g. appropriate archives and data collections.

How will I be supported? 

You will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students.  The only difference is that supervisory sessions will take place via audio and visual communication services such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person.

What is the cost?

We charge an annual tuition fee which is the same as our standard on-campus PhD but includes:

• Economy class flights to and from Birmingham for the compulsory two-week campus visit in September
• Accommodation at the University for the compulsory two-week campus visit in September
• Economy class flights to and from Birmingham at the end of the study period for the three-day PhD viva examination
• Accommodation at the University for the three-day viva examination

How often will I need to be on campus?

Although you may be able to undertake the majority of your study at an off campus location, you will be fully funded to make one compulsory visit to the University.  This will enable you to meet your supervisory team, undertake intensive research skills training and make a start on your doctoral studies. You will then be invited to attend the University for annual ‘in-person’ meetings which give you the opportunity to interact with other doctoral students both socially and academically, undertake important progress meetings and carry out necessary training. You will also generally be required to be present on campus for your viva voce.

Am I eligible?

Before we can offer you a place it is important that you have agreement from your potential supervisor and that they are satisfied that you will be able to undertake the PhD on an off campus basis. This may mean that slightly different entry requirements apply, such as English language and more extensive research skills training. Agreements will also need to be reached regarding some of the more practical aspects of undertaking the PhD in this way (for example attendance requirements, suitability of the chosen residency etc). It is important that arrangements are discussed early so that all parties involved know what to expect and to ensure you are able to successfully complete your studies. 

Can I study by distance learning anywhere?

Distance Learning courses can be undertaken from anywhere in the world, including the UK. 

However, it is worth noting that supervisory sessions for Distance Learning students will take place via audiovisual communications, such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person. 

While we have found that these 21st Century methods have proved popular, for those applicants who would prefer to visit the campus for face-to-face meetings with their supervisor, the traditional part-time study option may be more appropriate. 

How to apply?

Find the programme that you wish to apply for in our course finder and click on the 'Apply' button. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to provide evidence to demonstrate that you have the time, commitment, facilities and experience to study for a PhD by Distance Learning. Please be prepared to provide evidence, and details, of the following:

• Examples of your postgraduate research experience and ability to work independently e.g. papers/presentations at professional and academic conferences or publications in professional journals or previous completion of an independent research project, etc. 
• Full reasons (academic and personal) for registering for the distance learning mode of study rather than by standard full or part-time on-campus options. In particular, how you will be able to carry out your project in your chosen location. 
• Access to local library facilities (where needed)
• Access to IT facilities
• Access to communications, including e-mail, and audiovisual communication media e.g. Skype and Facetime
• Access to facilities to support any study-related disability (where appropriate)

Please visit the course finder for a full list of subject areas available to study via distance mode.

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Tackle the biggest challenges in biology, medicine and health in a world leading research environment, and prepare for your future career.

Attend an open day

PhD Clinical Psychology / Overview

Year of entry: 2025

• View full page

We require applicants to hold, or be about to obtain, an Upper Second class Honours degree, or the equivalent qualification gained outside the UK, in a related subject area for entry to a PhD programme. A Lower Second class Honours degree may be considered if applicants also hold a Master's degree with a Merit classification.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Before applying you must:

• Choose a programme or find a project you want to apply for and check you’re eligible.
• Speak to the listed supervisor about your suitability for their project or programme.
• Understand how your project is funded and, if it is self-funded, consider how you plan on funding it.
• Read our ‘How to apply’ page to find out more and ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission.

Visit our Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Postgraduate Research page to find out more.

Programme options

Programme overview

• Undertake research in a field you’re passionate about and join a project addressing leading challenges in the area while working with some of Europe's leading researchers and academics.
• Choose to research at a university ranked and 6th in the UK (QS World University Rankings, 2025) and 2nd in the world for social and environmental impact (THE Impact Rankings, 2024), where 93% of research activity is ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ (Research Impact Framework, 2021)
• Access some of the best research facilities in the world at the University, through our industry partners, and at hospitals around Greater Manchester.
• Benefit from dedicated support throughout your PhD journey, from pre-application to graduation and everything in between, through our Doctoral Academy
• Undergo training in transferable skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals through the Doctoral Academy's training programme and progress into a career in research, academia or industry.

Visit our Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Postgraduate Research page to find out about upcoming open days and events.

Fees for entry in 2025 have not yet been set. For reference, the fees for the academic year beginning September 2024 were as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

LET US HELP

Welcome to Capella

Select your program and we'll help guide you through important information as you prepare for the application process.

FIND YOUR PROGRAM

Connect with us

A team of dedicated enrollment counselors is standing by, ready to answer your questions and help you get started.

• PsyD in Clinical Psychology

PsyD in Clinical Psychology Doctor of Psychology

Reach the pinnacle of your career while helping others develop their potential. The online PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Capella deepens your understanding of human behavior and helps you prepare for state licensure eligibility.

The program includes coursework, face-to-face residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research to help you put theory into practice. A support team of licensure experts, advisors, and teaching assistants will help you stay on track for graduation.

Prepare for licensure

This program features online coursework and face-to-face experiences, both designed to help you pursue licensure. Learn more

Blend of in-person and online experiences

Coursework, residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research complement online learning to help prepare you for real-world clinical settings.

Professional and credible

This program is designed around the core goals, objectives, and competencies that define the practice of professional psychology.

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

• Online and in-person
• 14 Core courses
• 30 Max transfer credits
• 2 Elective courses
• 6 Residency courses
• 3 Practicum courses
• 4 Internship courses
• 1 Dissertation Preparation course
• Clinical dissertation

Courses and skills

Explore clinical psychology courses.

• This program requires a total of 145 quarter credits
• You'll need to complete 14 core courses, 2 elective courses, 6 residency courses, 3 practicum courses, 4 internship courses, one dissertation preparation course and one clinical dissertation

View all courses in catalog

What you'll learn

Our PsyD in Clinical Psychology equips you with comprehensive clinical skills based on the theoretical and scientific foundations of psychology, from assessment to intervention. It is designed to help you pursue licensure, subject to the requirements in your state.

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

• Demonstrate the attitudes, behaviors, and foundational knowledge required for the practice of psychology
• Act consistently with the ethics and laws pertaining to clinical practice
• Integrate science and theory into the practice of psychology
• Understand, respect, and apply issues of diversity in the practice of psychology
• Provide effective and appropriate psychological intervention to clients
• Accurately select, administer, score, and interpret psychological tests
• Employ research as a means to advance the science and practice of psychology

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the doctor of psychology cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A more structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1–2 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$555  per credit,  131  coursework credits, 30 max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$555 Per quarter credit

131 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

Practicum and Internship

Included in coursework costs; additional expenses such as site-required expenses not included. Minimum of 1,000 supervised practicum hours; minimum of 2,000 supervised internship hours

Included in coursework costs, 6 required. 4 one-week sessions and 2 two-week sessions. Travel, lodging, meals and other expenses not included.

Dissertation Preparation

$2,780 Per quarter

Per quarter

Clinical Dissertation

Resource kit fee

Per quarter, coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• The program specialization you choose
• Scholarships and finances
• Prior coursework

Transfer credits

• Employer and/or military benefits
• Amount of time spent working on practicum
• Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
• Complexity of your dissertation
• Academic performance
• School/work/life balance
• Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

Get the credits you deserve. You may be able to save time and money on your Capella degree by transferring credits from an accredited university.  Get started

Employer & association discounts

If your employer or organization is a Capella network partner, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your employer what offers are available.

10% military discount 

Capella offers a tuition discount to active-duty service members, guard and reserve members, veterans, their spouses* and dependents. *Starting in July, spouses of veterans can now benefit from a 10% discount on eligible certificates, master’s and doctoral programs and a 15% discount on eligible bachelor’s programs.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

Understanding professional licensure

Preparing for licensure.

It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.

Licensure details

How to apply

What are the psyd admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree in psychology or a related field from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution.
• Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

Additional requirements for Doctor of Psychology programs are:

• 3 letters of recommendation completed by professionals who can assess your aptitude for doctoral education in psychology
• An extended goal statement and writing sample.
• Your résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
• After submitting admission materials, applicants may be required to take part in a faculty interview for assessment of professionalism and academic fit to the program

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed coaching sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

Helping Professions Program Guide

Wondering about the differences between PhDs and professional doctorates? What are the unique features of online and traditional doctoral programs? Read on to learn more and find the right program for you.

What’s It Like to Be a Doctoral Student?

Get details on Capella University programs in counseling and family therapy, psychology, social work and human services, and applied behavior analysis. Compare learning formats, financing options, and more.

Career exploration

What can you do with a psyd in clinical psychology degree.

Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PsyD in Clinical Psychology.

Related job titles to explore*

• Clinical health psychologist
• Clinical psychologist
• Counseling psychologist
• Inpatient psychologist
• Licensed psychologist
• Pediatric psychologist
• Psychologist
• Psychology professor **

Employment settings to explore

• Colleges, universities and professional schools
• General medical and surgical hospitals
• Offices of mental health practitioners (except physicians)
• Offices of physicians, mental health specialists
• Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers
• Psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals
• Services for the elderly and persons with disabilities

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

** Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Understanding your target employers’ particular requirements is key in deciding on a doctoral program.

Take the first step toward earning your degree and achieving your goals. {page-tel}

Are you sure you want to cancel?

• Utility Menu

Department of Psychology

• https://twitter.com/PsychHarvard
• https://www.facebook.com/HarvardPsychology/
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFBv7eBJIQWCrdxPRhYft9Q
• Participate
• Clinical Psychology

The Clinical Psychology Program adheres to a clinical science model of training, and is a member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science.  We are committed to training clinical psychologists whose research advances scientific knowledge of psychopathology and its treatment, and who are capable of applying evidence-based methods of assessment and clinical intervention. The main emphasis of the program is research, especially on severe psychopathology. The program includes research, course work, and clinical practica, and usually takes five years to complete. Students typically complete assessment and treatment practica during their second and third years in the program, and they must fulfill all departmental requirements prior to beginning their one-year internship. The curriculum meets the requirements for licensure in Massachusetts, accreditation requirements of the American Psychological Association (APA; Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, American Psychological Association, 750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242, apaaccred.org , Tel. [202] 336-5979), and accreditation requirements of the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). PCSAS accredited the program on December 15, 2022 for a 10-year term. APA accredited the program on April 28, 2015 for a seven-year term, which was extended due to COVID-related delays.

Requirements

Required courses and training experiences fulfill requirements for clinical psychology licensure in Massachusetts as well as meet APA criteria for the accreditation of clinical psychology programs.  In addition to these courses, further training experiences are required in accordance with the American Psychological Association’s guidelines for the accreditation of clinical psychology programs (e.g., clinical practica [e.g., PSY 3050 Clinical Practicum, PSY 3080 Practicum in Neuropsychological Assessment]; clinical internship).

Students in the clinical psychology program are required to take the following courses:

• PSY 2900 Professional Ethics
• PSY 2445 Psychotherapy Research
• PSY  2070 Psychometric Theory and Method Using R
• PSY 2430 Cultural, Racial, and Ethnic Bases of Behavior
• PSY 3250 Psychological Testing
• PSY 2050 History of Psychology
• PSY 1950 Applied Statistical Data Analysis in Psychology I
• PSY 1952 Applied Statistical Data Analysis in Psychology II
• PSY 2040 Contemporary Topics in Psychopathology
• PSY 2460 Diagnostic Interviewing
• PSY 2420 Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Psychological Disorders

Students must take at least one course in each of the following areas. 

Biological Bases of Behavior PSY 1202 Modern Neuroanatomy PSY 1325 The Emotional, Social Brain PSY 1355 The Adolescent Brain PSY 1702 The Emotional Mind Neurobio 315QC Human Neuroanatomy and Neuropathology Cognitive-Affective Bases of Behavior PSY 2400 Cognitive Psychology and Emotional Disorders Social Bases of Behavior PSY 2500 Proseminar in Social Psychology PSY 3515 Graduate Seminar in Social Psychology

In accordance with American Psychological Association guidelines for the accreditation of clinical psychology programs, clinical students also receive consultation and supervision within the context of clinical practica in psychological assessment and treatment beginning in their second semester of their first year and running through their third year. They receive further exposure to additional topics (e.g., human development) in the Developmental Psychopathology seminar and in the twice-monthly clinical psychology “brown bag” speaker series. Finally, students complete a year-long clinical internship. Students are responsible for making sure that they take courses in all the relevant and required areas listed above. Students wishing to substitute one required course for another should seek advice from their advisor and from the director of clinical training prior to registering. During the first year, students are advised to get in as many requirements as possible. Many requirements can be completed before the deadlines stated below. First-year project: Under the guidance of a faculty member who serves as a mentor, students participate in a research project and write a formal report on their research progress. Due by May of first year. Second-year project: Original research project leading to a written report in the style of an APA journal article. A ten-minute oral presentation is also required. Due by May of second year. General exam: A six-hour exam covering the literature of the field. To be taken in September before the start of the third year. Thesis prospectus: A written description of the research proposed must be approved by a prospectus committee appointed by the CHD. Due at the beginning of the fourth year. Thesis and oral defense: Ordinarily this would be completed by the end of the fourth year. Clinical internship: Ordinarily this would occur in the fifth year. Students must have completed their thesis research prior to going on internship.

Credit for Prior Graduate Work

 A PhD student who has completed at least one full term of satisfactory work in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences may file an application at the Registrar’s Office requesting that work done in a graduate program elsewhere be counted toward the academic residence requirement. Forms are available  online .

No more than the equivalent of eight half-courses may be so counted for the PhD.

An application for academic credit for work done elsewhere must contain a list of the courses, with grades, for which the student is seeking credit, and must be approved by the student’s department. In order for credit to be granted, official transcripts showing the courses for which credit is sought must be submitted to the registrar, unless they are already on file with the Graduate School. No guarantee is given in advance that such an application will be granted. 

Only courses taken in a Harvard AB-AM or AB-SM program, in Harvard Summer School, as a GSAS Special Student or FAS courses taken as an employee under the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) may be counted toward the minimum academic residence requirements for a Master’s degree.

Academic and financial credit for courses taken as a GSAS Special Student or FAS courses taken as a Harvard employee prior to admission to a degree program may be granted for a maximum of four half-courses toward a one-year Master’s and eight half-courses toward a two-year Master’s or the PhD degree.

Applications for academic and financial credit must be approved by the student’s department and should then be submitted to the Registrar’s Office.

Student Admissions, Outcomes, and other data

• Time to Completion

Students can petition the program faculty to receive credit for prior graduate coursework, but it does not markedly reduce their expected time to complete the program.

2. Program Costs

3. Internships

4. Attrition

5. Licensure

Standard Financial Aid Award, Students Entering 2023

The financial aid package for Ph.D. students entering in 2023 will include tuition and health fees support for years one through four, or five, if needed; stipend support in years one and two; a summer research grant equal to two months stipend at the end of years one through four; teaching fellowship support in years three and four guaranteed by the Psychology Department; and a dissertation completion grant consisting of tuition and stipend support in the appropriate year. Typically students will not be allowed to teach while receiving a stipend in years one and two or during the dissertation completion year.

  Year 1 (2023-24) and Year 2 (2024- 25)

Tuition & Health Fees: Paid in Full Academic Year Stipend: $35,700 (10 months) Summer Research Award: $7,140 (2 months)

Year 3 (2025-26) & Year 4 (2026- 27) Tuition & Health Fees: Paid in Full Living Expenses: $35,700 (Teaching Fellowship plus supplement, if eligible) Summer Research Award: $7,140 (2 months)

Year 5 (2027-28) - if needed; may not be taken after the Dissertation Completion year

Tuition & Health Fees: Paid in Full

Dissertation Completion Year (normally year 5, occasionally year 6)

Tuition & Health Fees: Paid in Full Stipend for Living Expenses: $35,700

The academic year stipend is for the ten-month period September through June. The first stipend payment will be made available at the start of the fall term with subsequent disbursements on the first of each month. The summer research award is intended for use in July and August following the first four academic years.

In the third and fourth years, the guaranteed income of $35,700 includes four sections of teaching and, if necessary, a small supplement from the Graduate School. Your teaching fellowship is guaranteed by the Department provided you have passed the General Examination or equivalent and met any other department criteria. Students are required to take a teacher training course in the first year of teaching.

The dissertation completion year fellowship will be available as soon as you are prepared to finish your dissertation, ordinarily in the fifth year. Applications for the completion fellowship must be submitted in February of the year prior to utilizing the award. Dissertation completion fellowships are not guaranteed after the seventh year. Please note that registration in the Graduate School is always subject to your maintaining satisfactory progress toward the degree.

GSAS students are strongly encouraged to apply for appropriate Harvard and outside fellowships throughout their  enrollment. All students who receive funds from an outside source are expected to accept the award in place of the above Harvard award. In such cases, students may be eligible to receive a GSAS award of up to $4,000 for each academic year of external funding secured or defer up to one year of GSAS stipend support.

For additional information, please refer to the Financial Support section of the GSAS website ( gsas.harvard.edu/financial-support ).

Registration and Financial Aid in the Graduate School are always subject to maintaining satisfactory progress toward the degree.

Psychology students are eligible to apply for generous research and travel grants from the Department.

The figures quoted above are estimates provided by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and are subject to change.

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 E-mail:  [email protected]   www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

The Director of Clinical Training is Prof. Richard J. McNally who can be reached by telephone at (617) 495-3853 or via email at:  [email protected] .

Harvard Clinical Psychology Student Handbook

The purpose of the Psychology Clinical Handbook is to outline and describe the philosophy and structure of Harvard University’s Clinical Psychology Program and to provide students with information about the courses, research, and clinical training required to earn a Ph.D. degree in clinical psychology.

Clinical Science Faculty

• Matthew K. Nock
• Mark L. Hatzenbuehler
• Jill M. Hooley
• Richard J. McNally
• Rebecca Shingleton
• John R. Weisz
• Undergraduate Program
• Postdoctoral Program
• Doctoral Alumni

Online education: Graduate programs

• Degrees and Programs
• Schools and Classrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

There has been tremendous growth in online education over the last decade, both in terms of university offerings and student enrollment. According to a study published in 2014 by the Sloan Consortium, approximately 85 percent of schools offer at least some online courses. The U.S. Department of Education reports that in fall 2012 nearly 30 percent of graduate students were taking at least one course online, with more than 20 percent taking all their courses online. This represents an increase of more than one-third in just five years.

Certainly one of the primary draws to online education is the flexibility that it offers. Online learning may also be more cost-effective; many public universities will charge in-state tuition to their online students, regardless of their location.

However, getting a degree online isn't always the right choice. If you are interested in a research-intensive subfield like cognitive psychology or biopsychology, then a fully online degree may not be the best fit. Likewise, a program in a health services psychology subfield frequently requires patient contact hours that may be difficult to meet in a fully online program. 

Also consider whether an online program is the right fit for your learning preferences. Can you stay motivated and on schedule even without weekly class meetings?

There are two main types of online classes:

• Online courses typically require no face-to-face meetings.
• Blended/hybrid  courses meet partially in person and partially online. A hybrid degree program may include fully online courses and/or blended/hybrid courses, but would require some face-to-face education as well.

Course content may be delivered in real time (i.e., live-streaming of lectures, participation via video conference) or asynchronously (i.e., prerecorded lectures, independent reading, participation in online discussion boards or blogs). Some online degree programs will also have students come to campus for brief (one week or so) intensive sessions, often in the summer.

The APA Commission on Accreditation currently does not accredit online-only doctoral programs. Some accredited programs may offer online courses or other content via distance education in an adjunctive role. These courses cannot represent a substantial nature of program content and certain classes (e.g., practicum) are not considered appropriate for this instructional method. Any online courses in accredited programs should be noted as such in public materials.

At the doctoral level, the APA Commission on Accreditation reviews programs in clinical, counseling and school psychology, as well as programs that offer education in a combination of these three areas. CoA does not review or accredit bachelor's or master's programs, nor does it review doctoral programs in on-practice subfields. For more information on accreditation, please visit our FAQ on choosing a program .

As with any graduate program, carefully consider what your career goals are and evaluate how each program matches with them. When researching graduate programs, there are a few important questions that you should ask to determine which program is best suited for you .

In addition, there are special considerations when researching online graduate programs:

• Is your school accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation ?
• What level of access will you have to library resources, academic advisors, career counselors and other campus-based services?
• How much access will you have to faculty and other department resources?
• If your program requires a practicum and/or internship experience, will the department assist you in finding an appropriate placement in your community?
• If your program emphasizes professional practice, will attending an online program cause problems when applying for licensure? (Some states require that your university be regionally accredited in order to apply for licensure.)

As with any school, you should carefully research the level of support you can receive to pay for your education (including tuition remission, research or teaching assistantships, scholarships and financial aid). Usually students who take at least two classes per term are eligible for federal financial aid.

Learn more about how much graduate school can cost and how you can pay for it .

APA and the American Psychological Association of Graduate Students (APAGS) offer lots of help to students interested in pursuing degrees and careers in psychology. Learn more about graduate study in psychology to see if it is right for you.

About Graduate School

• Answers to your questions about graduate psychology programs .

Related Resources

• Graduate and Postgraduate Education
• Resource Guide for Psychology Graduate Students of Color
• Proud and Prepared: A Guide for LGBT Students Navigating Graduate Training
• Resource Guide for Psychology Graduate Students with Disabilities

Department of Psychology

• PhD in Clinical Psychology

JOIN US FOR OUR UPCOMING INFORMATION SESSION ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2024 AT NOON E.T.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP

Program Aims

Prepare Graduates for Careers in Clinical Practice. With regard to professional practice, our curriculum and training experiences provides thorough training in state-of-the-art evidence-based assessment and psychotherapeutic treatment approaches. Students will receive education and training in all of the competencies deemed necessary to function as a clinical psychologist in a full-range of settings in the current healthcare environment (e.g., evidence based assessment and intervention, ethical and legal standards, knowledge of individual and cultural diversity, development of professional values, consultation and supervision skills; cf. SoA ).

Prepare Graduates for Careers in Academic Settings. Our curriculum and training opportunities prepare graduates of our program for careers in research in a variety of settings (e.g., colleges, universities, medical centers). In addition, for those students who are interested, there are opportunities for teaching undergraduate courses in order to develop the necessary teaching skills for a potential career in academics.

Graduates of our program are prepared to pursue careers in applied and academic settings. Surveys of our more than 900 alumni have shown that they are employed in a wide variety of settings (clinics, colleges and universities, correctional facilities, hospitals, independent clinical practices, research centers, etc.) in 25 different states and in a number of foreign countries. This LINK provides career information of our graduates during the past ten years.

Degree Requirements. The Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology is designed to take a minimum of five years of full-time study (regardless of whether the student enters with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree). This time-frame includes a one-year predoctoral internship to be completed off-campus at an APA accredited internship site acquired through the national psychology internship match . Two research projects are required: A Second Year Research Project and a Dissertation. Successful completion of two Qualifying Exams (Research and Clinical) are required prior to initiation of dissertation research. A total of 105 semester hours, including those for course work, externships, internship, and research projects, are required to earn the doctoral degree. Click on the following to view a required curriculum sequence or to view student admissions, outcomes, and other data .

Learn More About the Program

GREs will not be considered for Fall 2025 applications. Please ignore any other information on this website or the application portal that indicates GREs are required. They are not required for this coming cycle.

Program news and updates.

PhD Program Receives Maximum Accreditation Award

Our program was evaluated by the American Psychological Association for reaccreditation during 2019 and was granted 10 years of accreditation (through 2029). Ten years is the maximum award allowable and can be viewed as an independent, objective endorsement of the quality of our training program given that APA does not award the maximum lightly. The following is from the site-visitors report summarizing what they believe to be the particular strengths of our program. These points are very worthy of consideration for applicants deliberating about applying to our program:

• a highly dedicated, hard-working, and supportive core faculty;
• a satisfied group of students, who have positive outcomes with respect to graduation rates, licensure, employment, and life-long learning;
• excellent training, particularly in evidence-based psychological interventions, in both community-based specialty clinics and an impressive set of externships;
• a well-organized and administered program with effective leadership, which works to optimize doctoral training and education.

Program Info

• About the Program
• Requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• PhD Program Faculty
• Diversity Statement

• Admission Info
• Financial Aid

Student Experience

• Meet Our Current Students
• Policies/Manuals
• Graduate Career Info
• Clinical Psych Students Organization
• PhD Program Newsletters

Mun Yee Kwan, Ph.D.

Dr. Kwan received her Ph.D. in Psychological Clinical Science from North Dakota State University. Her research focuses on experimental, cross-sectional, and longitudinal examination of interpersonal and sociocultural factors in the development and maintenance of eating disorders and suicidal behaviors. She is trained in and uses empirically supported treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. She enjoys travelling and seeing the wonders of the world, watching movies, and attending cultural events during her leisure time.

Amy Hyoeun Lee, Ph.D.

Dr. Lee earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at St. John's University and completed her predoctoral internship in the Stony Brook University Consortium Internship Program, Child Track. Dr. Lee's research focuses on identifying developmental mechanisms (e.g., executive function, sleep regulation) linking dimensions of childhood adversity and psychopathology, evaluating the impact of current evidence-based interventions on these mechanisms, and addressing disparities in access to evidence-based interventions for traumatized youth from historically marginalized communities. She is currently implementing a pilot study to assess the acceptability and feasibility of group-based Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for youth of color with histories of both interpersonal and racial traumas. When not immersed in her work, she enjoys cooking for her family, trying new baking recipes, and time spent mindfully with her treasured family and friends.

Contact the Program

Program director.

William C. Sanderson, PhD Director, PhD Program in Clinical Psychology

Consumer Information Disclosures

As an American Psychological Association Accredited Program, it is our intention to train students in all the competencies outlined for the profession of health service psychology. It is our expectation that the vast majority of our graduates will obtain professional licensure as clinical psychologists, and will be able to engage in clinical practice and supervise trainees. Hofstra’s clinical training program is designed to meet the high standards of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Professions—standards that meet or exceed those of many other states. However, licensure is controlled by individual governmental bodies in each of the 50 US states (typically State Boards of Psychology under the Division of Occupational Affairs in State Governments) and every jurisdiction may impose their own unique requirements. Hence, we cannot guarantee that the specific training we provide will meet the criteria for licensure in any individual state. That said, we are quite successful at advocating for our students, and we are unaware of any graduate from the last 25 years who has been unable to obtain licensure in any state if they have pursued it. For more information see our program requirements . For specific information about a specific state's licensing requirements see https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.asppb.net/resource/resmgr/docs/7.22.21_consumer_information.pdf . -- you are strongly encouraged to review current state licensing requirements if you are planning to get licensed in a state other than New York.

For specific information about a specific state's licensing requirements see:  (1)    https://www.apaservices.org/practice/ce/state/state-info  and (2)  Consumer Information Disclosures  [PDF]

Policies and Procedures

Hofstra PhD Program in Clinical Psychology's policies and procedures are outlined in the manuals below.  Please note that it is possible that small changes will be made for the next incoming class and if so, that is the manual that will be in effect for that cohort (students will be given a copy of the version of the manual relevant to them at the orientation meeting immediately prior to the beginning of their training).

STUDENT MANUAL

ETHICS/CONDUCT/GRIEVANCE MANUAL

• Schools & departments

Clinical and Health Psychology PhD, MScR

Awards: PhD, MScR

Funding opportunities

Introduction to Postgraduate Study at the University of Edinburgh

Join us online on 25 September to learn more about Scotland, the city of Edinburgh and postgraduate study at the University.

Find out more and register

Research profile

The PhD and MSc by Research in Clinical Psychology offer the chance to work with, and be supervised by, a range of clinical academics across many areas of psychology.

Candidates should note that these programmes do not lead to Chartered Clinical Psychologist status.

Our research involves national and international collaborations, with many projects involving NHS partnerships.

Our research interests include:

• mindfulness and third wave approaches
• eating behaviours and disorders
• psychosis and complex mental health
• risk and resilience in children and adolescents
• psychological treatments
• violent behaviour
• sexual offending

You can find out more about MScR and PhD programme options, including supervision information, on the School of Health in Social Science's website:

• MScR Clinical and Health Psychology
• PhD Clinical and Health Psychology

We have an active research group in the area of applied developmental psychology and psychological therapies research for severe mental health issues. A large number of the clinical psychology team and our students are part of the Centre for Applied Developmental Psychology, specialising in research that aims to promote the wellbeing of young people and aid recovery in those with mental health problems.

• Centre for Applied Developmental Psychology

Training and support

The PhD and MSc by Research programmes allow you to conduct an independent research project that makes a significant contribution to your chosen field of study and to further develop your research skills. We provide expertise in a variety of research methods including qualitative and quantitative approaches.

You will be assigned two supervisors (usually one for MSc by Research) and you will meet with your supervisors regularly. Workshops, seminars and courses in research methods are available to postgraduate students undertaking a higher degree by research.

We work in close collaboration with the Graduate School of Social & Political Science, enabling School of Health in Social Science research students to benefit from the extensive suite of social science research courses offered by both Schools.

With close ties with other humanities disciplines and with colleagues in the College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, we offer PhD students excellent opportunities for interdisciplinary supervision and research project development.

PhD by Distance option

The PhD by Distance is available to suitably qualified applicants in the same areas as our on-campus programmes: Clinical Psychology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, Health in Social Science and Nursing Studies.

The programme allows students who are unable to commit to basing themselves in Edinburgh full time to study for a PhD in a field of Health in Social Science from their home country or city - however this is not intended to be a fully online distance learning programme.

Students enrolled on this programme will be expected to come to Edinburgh at least once per year of study to meet with their supervisors. The length and timing of these visits are negotiable but students should expect to spend at least two weeks at the University of Edinburgh during each year of study.

For further information on the programme (including entry requirements and how to apply) please see the school website:

• Health in Social Science PhD by Distance

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

For MScR: A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a relevant subject area.

For PhD: A UK 2:1 honours degree and a UK masters degree, or their international equivalents, in a relevant subject area. We may also consider your application if you do not have a masters degree, but have other relevant research experience.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 176 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 62 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

• Fees and costs

Read our general information on tuition fees and studying costs:

Scholarships and funding

Featured funding.

• Postgraduate research scholarships and funding

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Postgraduate Research Admissions Administrator
• Phone: +44 (0)131 651 5144
• Contact: [email protected]
• School of Health in Social Science
• Medical School
• Teviot Place
• Central Campus
• School: Health in Social Science
• College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

This programme is not currently accepting applications. Applications for the next intake usually open in October.

Start date: September , January

Application deadlines

The School of Health in Social Science operates a gathered field approach to PGR applications - this means that all complete applications which satisfy our minimum entry requirements will be held until the nearest deadline and an admissions panel will meet to consider all applications received together after that date.

The application deadlines and dates for decision are listed in the table below. In order to ensure full consideration of your application we ask that you submit your complete application including all supporting documentation by these dates. More information about what will be considered a complete application and how to apply can be found on our School website:

• School of Health in Social Science Postgraduate Research

Applicant's planning to apply for the University of Edinburgh's funding opportunities must apply by the first deadline.

• How to apply

To apply for this programme you must submit the following:

• a completed research proposal form
• 2 references
• the online application form, completed via the ‘Apply’ section above

For guidance on completing the research proposal form, please see the research proposal guidance document provided by the School of Health in Social Science:

• Research proposal guidance

We strongly recommend that you discuss a draft version of your research proposal form with your proposed supervisor and/or with the Programme Director. Please read the ‘Discuss and develop your idea’ section in the research proposal guidance document for more information.

Your reference must be specific to your application, on headed paper, signed by the referee, and dated within the last 6 months. Your reference can be uploaded directly by your referee, or you can upload it yourself.

• Guidance on uploading a reference to the Applicant Hub

We must receive all the information before the deadline for your application to be considered.

If your online application is not completenby the application deadline it will be rejected. If this happens, you can submit another application for a later application deadline.

After you apply, we will evaluate your application. If we are able to progress your application beyond the online stage, you will be invited to participate in an interview with your prospective first supervisor.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

• Schools & departments

PhD by Distance

The PhD by Distance programme allows students who are unable to commit to basing themselves in Edinburgh to study for a PhD in a field of Health in Social Science from their home country or city.

What's involved?

The PhD by Distance is not intended to be an online learning programme.

Students enrolled on this programme will be expected to come to Edinburgh at least once per year of study to meet with their supervisors.

The length and timing of these visits are negotiable but students should expect to spend at least two weeks at the University of Edinburgh during each year of study.

This could be for the annual review process, or to attend research training courses. It is also expected that PhD by Distance students will come to Edinburgh for their oral examination (viva voce).

PhD by Distance students will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students. The frequency with which students will meet with their supervisors, and method of communication for supervision sessions, will be provisionally agreed at the point of application and confirmed during induction. This must include at least one face-to-face supervision session each year with additional meetings and communication on a regular basis.  

Please be aware that some funding bodies do not permit students to study by distance, for example both ESRC and AHRC regulations currently state that students must be residents at the Institution where they are studying.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for the PhD by Distance are the same as for the School’s on-campus PhD programmes.  

In addition, applicants to the PhD by Distance will also be required to complete a PhD by Distance Applicant Admission Form and Study Plan.

Applicants should provide information about previous experience of distance study together with a statement detailing the potential risks and characteristics of distance learning.

Experience of studying at a distance is desirable in applying for the programme however this is not a specific requirement for admission.

It is important however that applicants demonstrate an awareness of the challenges of this mode of study.

Applicants must also provide details of the access they will have to research facilities at the normal site of study and whether a local advisor is proposed.

Applications to the PhD by Distance will only be accepted if applicants have access to local University standard library facilities and to the internet.

Applicants will also be required to have a discussion with the proposed principal supervisor and to complete a provisional study plan in consultation with them as part of the admissions process.

International students wishing to study part-time will be considered for this Distance programme.

What programmes are available by distance?

Phd/phd by distance counselling studies.

The PhD/MPhil in Counselling Studies programme is an advanced research degree enabling students to conduct in-depth independent research on a topic of their choice, thereby contributing to the knowledge and evidence base for counselling and psychotherapy.

PhD/PhD by Distance Health in Social Science

Doctoral research students are a new and crucial part of the Counselling, Psychotherapy and Applied Social Sciences research community and we welcome applications from potential students in our fields of research interest.

PhD/PhD by Distance Clinical and Health Psychology

The PhD/MSc by Research programme provides the opportunity to do a substantial piece of research in an area linked to clinical and health psychology and to develop excellent research skills in the process.

PhD/PhD by Distance Nursing Studies

The PhD Nursing Studies programme is an advanced postgraduate research degree for students wishing to conduct in-depth independent research on an area to contribute to nursing knowledge and evidence. It offers the student a chance to make a significant contribution to knowledge in nursing.

• Best Online Programs
• Best Campus Programs
• Behavior Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Counseling & Mental Health
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• General Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational
• Marriage Family Therapy
• Social Psychology
• Social Work
• Educational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Family Psychologists
• Marriage Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• School Counselors
• Neuropsychologist
• I/O Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Addiction Counselor
• Mental Health Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Occupational Psychologist
• Child Psychiatrist
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• PsyD vs PhD

Online Accredited PsyD Degree Programs

Can you get a PsyD online? Yes! A professional who wants to earn their Psy.D. degree in clinical psychology should ensure that the program is certified by a major accrediting body in the United States. This will help to ensure that your doctoral degree adheres to the highest possible standards of quality in the United States.It also will ensure that potential employers will recognize that your Psy.D. comes from a highly rigorous program. This is very important to think about, when you consider that earning your doctoral degree is going to take at least four years.

The most recommended online PsyD programs that are accredited by a major accrediting agency in the US are:

#1 Capella University

The Clinical Psychology Psy.D. Online program at Capella University will provide you with complete clinical training, which is based upon key theoretical and scientific foundations of the field of psychology. These include psychological assessment and intervention. This specialty is set up to prepare you for state licensure eligibility so you can practice as a clinical psychologist. This is a professionally aligned program that includes demanding coursework, residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research that makes you put psychology theory into practice. It requires daily online classes and also residency and clinical training in your city.  No GRE Required!

You will delve deeply into important clinical psychology topics, including the study of mental disorders, psychotherapy, and clinical training.

Required courses for this online Psy.D. program include Advanced Psychopathology, Advanced Psychological Testing, Theories of Psychotherapy, Evidence-Based Practice in Psychology, Strategies of Clinical Supervision and Consultation, and Professional Issues in Clinical Psychology .

During the program, you are required to complete a minimum of 1,000 practicum hours and 2,000 pre-doctoral internship hours. Twenty-five core courses four electives for a total of 145 quarter credits are required to graduate.

Other important aspects of this accredited Psy.D. program are:

• Blend of online and in-person class experiences : Students will enjoy a mix of online courses, face-to-face residencies, clinical practica, internships, and research. This multi-faceted learning style will help to ready you for real-world clinical environments.
• Professional and credible : This online Psy.D. program was created around the objectives, core goals, and competencies that are vital to the practice of professional psychology.
• Designed for working professionals : 81% of doctoral alumni surveyed said their education at Capella was designed well for working professionals.
• Engaging online learning : Students can access their online learning environment when they like, from any location, and on any device. You can set your own class schedule while continuing to meet your professional and personal obligations.
• Support from an experienced team : Each student has a high level of support from licensure experts, advisors, professors, and teaching assistants. You will always be kept on the path of success to graduating with your doctoral degree.

Students also gain vital knowledge so that they can:

• Properly administer psychological testing
• Act consistently with the professional ethics of psychology
• Effectively apply intervention strategies
• Carefully consider issues of diversity in a psychology context
• Learn how to implement empiraclly supported psychological treatment

The university offers many resources to help you begin your journey on your doctoral path:

• Enrollment counselors : Help to understand everything about this doctoral program and explain the differences from other related programs. Ensures you are making the right educational choice for your future.
• Community and networking groups : Connect to students and faculty on Linkedin and Facebook, as well as the Capella University Open Forum.
• Career Center : Help you with questions about how to use your doctoral degree to find the job of your dreams.

Featured Capella Spotlight

Program Requirements

• You can transfer a maximum of 30 quarter credits towards your Psy.D.
• You must complete three years of full-time enrollment at minimum to earn your doctoral degree.
• You need to finish 125 quarter hours of classes, which includes core and specialization classes, and 20 hours of electives, for a total of 135 quarter credits.
• You also need to finish at least three doctoral practicum series classes, and also must complete a site-based practicum.

#2 Walden University

Walden University features an online Psy.D. in Behavioral Health Leadership that offers leadership and cross-disciplinary abilities to improve and manage the delivery of mental and behavioral healthcare in many healthcare environments.

The modern healthcare system needs behavioral health professionals who can manage how quality behavioral health and mental health services are delivered in a growing integrated setting. This Psy.D. program in leadership will prepare you to meet this vital need.

Highlights of this accredited program are:

• Applicable to your workplace : This doctoral degree program is designed, but not limited to, practicing behavioral health workers, such as therapists, social workers, counselors, therapists, and health agency workers, who want to develop the skills in management and leadership, financial management, and instruction and training.
• Six specializations : These are healthcare management, health psychology, international practice, public health, teaching, and industrial and organizational psychology.
• Two residencies : An in-person consulting skills workshop provides the hands-on practice you need to develop your new abilities, while the virtual doctoral project residency will help you with your capstone class.
• Interactive case studies : Cutting-edge learning tools that allow you to apply new leadership skills to real-world issues and problems.

*Visit Walden University

Required courses include:

• Behavioral Health Management
• Consulting for Organizational Change
• Behavioral Health Social Entrepreneurship and Advocacy
• Governance, Law, and Policy for Healthcare Leaders
• Leadership and Leader Development
• Healthcare Financial Management and Economics

Students must complete approximately 90 credit hours to graduate. They also must complete their doctoral dissertation. Most students complete the Psy.D. in four years but you can take as long as eight years.

Walden University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. This accreditation validates that the university offers programs that are academically rigorous and that the faculty are academically qualified.

#3 NOVA Southeastern University

The major goal of this accredited Psy.D. program is to provide academic, internship, practicum and research experience that is directly relevant for your career, while also keeping the key scientific base upon which your professional competence and knowledge rest. The clinical skills in the program will be formed by a course sequence in both intervention and assessment, which are in both theory and practice. You have the option of taking most classes either on campus or online, but you will need to fulfill residency requirements in your local area. NOVA Southeastern University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools .

SEE ALSO:  Nova Southeastern University Psy.D. Program Review

You can focus your studies in these concentrations:

• Long Term Mental Illness
• Neuropsychology
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
• Child, Adolescent and Family Psychology

All doctoral students in this accredited Psy.D. program must finish at least 119 credits, and have to pass the Clinical Competency Examination. You also must finish a one year internship. Some of the classes that you will need to complete include:

• Adult Psychopathology
• Developmental: Child and Adolescent
• Developmental: Adult and Older Adult
• Professional Issues and Ethics
• Assessment: Intelligence Testing with Lab
• Diversity in Assessment and Intervention
• History and Systems of Psychology
• Child and Adolescent Psychopathology
• Psychobiology
• Assessment: Interviewing
• Adult Intervention
• Objective Personality Assessment
• Behavioral Assessment
• Clinical Practicum I
• Supervision I

#4 Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide offers an online Psy.D. in Human and Organizational Psychology . In this four year, 100% online program, you will learn how to gain a superior understanding of what motivates a workforce to boost their productivity, reduce turnover and increase profitability. This doctoral program promotes a better understanding and more effective use of psychological principles in the workplace.

SEE ALSO: Touro University Worldwide Psy.D. Psychology Review

This program provides the following benefits to students:

• Offers you the psychological skills and tools that are needed to design evidence based solutions in a professional workplace
• Doctoral level academics provide you with detailed faculty research guidance, learning opportunities and technology.
• A support system that gives you the maximum opportunity for student success in your Psy.D. program.

Other important aspects of this program are:

• 100% online with no residency requirement or campus visits
• No GRE scores are needed for admission
• Accelerated admissions for professionals with significant work experience and master’s level work
• Tuition is affordable at only $700 per credit hour

#5 Alaska Pacific University

Alaska Pacific University offers a Psy.D. program that prepares students who are culturally competent, and will be able to reduce suffering and empower groups, individuals and communities so that they are healthier, and in a state of better well being.

This Psy.D. program was devised in 2011 when it was determined there was a greater need for doctoral-level psychology programs in Alaska. Most of the state qualifies for the Health Resources and Services Designation (HRSA) known as Mental Health Professional Shortage Area. This Psy.D. program is one of just two such programs in the state.

SEE ALSO: Alaska Pacific University Psy.D. Psychology Review

The core faculty in this partially online Psy.D. program have highly diverse skills and interests in many clinical, research and cultural areas. The areas of expertise of faculty reflect the unique landscape of Alaska, and enhance student development to work with the diverse needs in the state.

Regarding the online program, these features stand out:

• Program has face to face and technology supported doctoral instruction that meets the needs of students who live from from campus.
• Each course meets for three days weekends three times, and six, two hour, live eLearning sessions in the evening during the semester.
• The three day weekends involve time for planning internships, practicums and interacting with students and faculty.

#6 University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Psy.D. in clinical psychology that consists of 103 semester credit hours. It is a blended program, with 73 credit hours offered in a weekend format, which meet once per month Friday through Sunday. Also, 16 credit hours are offered online in a bi-term format, and five credit hours are offered online in a full semester format. Nine credit hours are offered for your predoctoral internship. ( UCumberlands.edu ).

Required classes include the following:

• Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches to Treatment
• Practicum in Psychotherapy I-II
• Practicum Assessment I-II
• Advanced Practicum
• Supervision, Management and Consultation
• Psychodynamic Approaches to Treatment
• Extended Doctoral Research Project
• Clinical Applications
• Clinical Neuropsychology

Benefits of Getting Your PsyD Online

Students considering earning their PsyD degree online as opposed to attending a traditional brick-and-mortar university could see several advantages to this approach, depending on the school they choose and other factors in their lives. These benefits range from spending less money to maximizing flexibility.

Here are a few of the biggest benefits to earning an online PsyD:

You’ll spend less on tuition and fees

At many schools, online tuition is less expensive than on-campus tuition, and online students don’t need to pay for things like parking or labs, since they will quite possibly never step foot on the campus, depending on whether or not the program is 100% online. It’s important to remember, though, that you may eat into any savings that you could have seen if it takes you longer than expected to complete your degree and tuition costs rise. In addition to being able to avoid certain fees that are required for on-campus students, you’ll also avoid temptations that can often come with a campus visit, such as hitting up restaurants, bars and school bookstores filled with campus merch. Plus, students with children may be able to save on childcare costs since they won’t need to find a sitter for their kids while they have class.

It’s easier to balance your life and school

In addition to saving money on things like childcare, an online PsyD allows you to have the ultimate degree of flexibility while still providing you with a rigorous academic experience. Provided that you complete all your work, internships and other requirements, for the most part, you can complete your school work at the time of your choosing, rather than having to mold your life around an on-campus schedule. It’s certainly not an easy balancing act, but earning an online PsyD puts you in control of scheduling decisions rather than the school being in charge. After all, if you’re attending a traditional on-campus program and have a course that happens to conflict with, say, a work obligation, it’s pretty much guaranteed that the work obligation will need to take a backseat.

You’ll lower your carbon footprint

Your mileage will vary here, but if you don’t need to drive to a campus several times per week, that will likely add up to hundreds of miles of travel that you’re not doing and will offset at least some of your carbon footprint. Not only is driving less without a doubt great for the earth, but it’s also good for your wallet since you won’t need to fill up your gas tank as often (that’s also good for the environment). Also, many college campuses are heavy polluters thanks to industrial air-conditioners and other heavy-duty machinery. If fewer students are on-campus, over time, that will likely lead the university to reduce the amount of energy it’s consuming.

It might help your technical skills

A PsyD certainly isn’t a STEM degree, but successfully completing your education online will mean mastering several online tools for communicating with your professors and classmates, conducting and organizing researching and keeping yourself on track. While programs generally are fairly consistent throughout educational institutions, certain professors may have their favorites, and often students have to learn a few by the time all is said and done. All of that work builds hard skills that not only translate to finishing your degree but also will help you once you’re out in the workforce. Technical skills aren’t the only ones you’ll be building, either, since earning a degree online requires a great deal of personal motivation that more traditional delivery methods don’t, and the productivity and time management skills built through earning an online degree are invaluable, not just in the professional world but for life in general.

You’ll likely have greater access to faculty

Might seem counterintuitive, but online students could actually experience more regular interaction with faculty members than traditional on-campus students. That’s because a professor is going to establish a set schedule for office hours, and they may not even have office hours every day, so many on-campus students may miss their chance if they don’t get to the office in time. But because online communication can take place at any time of the day or night, professors may be more inclined to send or receive messages at home, even very late into the night. Many people also find it easier to communicate ideas via written messages, such as emails and chat programs, and this could lead not only to more regular communication but more profound and helpful guidance from faculty members.

*Indicates school is a Featured Partner.  Click here for disclosure on Featured Partners. 

The Comprehensive Guide to Psy.D. Programs

• Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics/graduate/programs/psyd-clinical-psychology/degree
• Psy.D. in Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.ashford.edu/online-degrees/social-behavioral-science/psyd-doctorate-psychology
• Psy.D. in Human Organizational Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from   https://www.tuw.edu/academics/psychology/psyd-human-organizational-psychology/
• Psy.D in Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.alaskapacific.edu/counseling-psychology/degrees/psyd-graduate-program/
• No GRE Psychology Doctorate Degrees. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://psydprograms.org/no-gre-online-psychology-phd-programs/

10 Best Online PhD in Clinical Psychology Programs [2024 Guide]

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

For a career as a licensed psychologist, you can take a look at clinical psychology PhD programs for the necessary training.

Getting a doctorate is an essential step in becoming a clinical psychologist who treats mental health disorders, joins the faculty of a university, or conducts psychology research.

Many clinical psychology schools offer online coursework so that you can complete some of the requirements for your doctoral program from afar. Through online classes, you could develop your skills as a competent, knowledgeable psychology professional.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer doctoral programs in clinical psychology online or in a hybrid format.

1. California Southern University

California Southern University offers a Doctor of Psychology. The program requires the completion of 66 credits and a doctoral program. It can typically be finished in 4 to 5 years by full-time students. Potential courses include Advanced Theories of Personality, Advanced Psychopathology, and Statistical Methods and Analysis.

California Southern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Capella University

Capella University’s PsyD in Psychology program includes a blend of online learning and in-person experiences. It requires the completion of a dissertation and participation in a clinical practicum and internships.

Potential courses include Advanced Psychopathology, Theory and Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Psychology, and Neuropsychological Assessment. The program is designed to prepare students for state licensure.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology program that includes online and in-person learning.

Potential courses include Psychopathology, Multicultural Psychology, and Developmental Bases of Behavior. The program also requires the completion of a dissertation and participation in more than 1500 clock hours of supervised clinical practicum and internship experiences.

Fielding Graduate University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

4. Liberty University

Liberty University offers a PhD in Psychology program that requires the completion of 60 credit hours and a dissertation under faculty mentorship. It usually takes 3 years to finish. Courses can be taken in a 100% online, 8 week format. The curriculum is designed to teach about human thought and behavior from a biblical worldview.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

5. Meridian University

Meridian University offers a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology. The program offers several optional concentrations, including Collective Trauma and Social Healing, Transformative Leadership, Somatic Psychology, and Organizational Development. Courses are offered in hybrid and online formats and follow a quarterly academic calendar.

Meridian University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

6. Regent University

Regent University’s online PhD in Counseling and Psychological Studies program requires the completion of 51 credit hours. All courses are taught from a Christian worldview. Concentration options include Human Services Counseling, Addictions Counseling, Marriage and Family Ministry, Industrial-Organizational, Trauma and Crisis Counseling and more.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

7. Saint Mary’s University

Saint Mary’s University offers a Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology. This program requires the completion of 87 credits and two community practicum placements. It can typically be completed in 4 years. Classes meet on Wednesdays and Thursdays and have afternoon or evening time slots. It is possible to continue working while in the program.

Saint Mary’s University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. Saybrook University

Saybrook University offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology that can be earned online. The program usually takes 5 years of full-time study to finish. It is designed to prepare students for professional licensure in many states. Optional specializations are available in Advanced Psychological Assessment, Complex Trauma and the Healing Process, Existential and Humanistic Psychology, and more.

Saybrook University is accredited by the Senior Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

9. University of Colorado – Denver

The University of Colorado—Denver offers a licensure-track School Psychology PsyD program with a 100% job placement rate. It offers an optional Bilingual Spanish-English School Psychologist concentration. The program usually takes 4 years to complete. Potential courses include Introduction Counseling in School Psychology, Biological and Neuropsychological Bases of Behavior, and School-Based Multicultural Interventions.

CU Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Walden University

Walden University offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Much of the program can be completed online, but to gain hands-on experience a supervised practicum, internships, and four 4 day residences are required. The program offers specializations in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Health, Forensic Psychology, and Teaching.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Clinical Psychology PhD Programs Online

Psychology is an interesting and important field of study. Professional psychologists help people through mental illnesses, life stresses, and major decisions.

Whether a psychologist works as a practitioner or researcher, they can contribute to the well-being of other people. If your goal is to become a clinical psychologist, then you’ll first be required to earn a doctoral degree, such as a PhD.

The requirements for a psychology PhD may include:

• Doctoral-level coursework
• Writing and defending a dissertation

The classes for this degree might cover advanced topics in various branches of psychology, such as social and behavioral psychology. You might also study ethics, assessment techniques, and pharmacology.

Research classes can be important for doctoral students as well. They can help prepare you for conducting your own original research and writing your dissertation. Clinical psychologists’ work often focuses on people with mental illnesses. Within this field, you can choose to specialize in a particular area. Examples include treating adolescent patients or working in the criminal justice system.

During your program, you will spend time working in real-world psychology settings. You can gain quite a lot of experience through these practicums and internships. Accredited psychology doctorates may balance online and in-person learning. Taking some classes online could help you fit schooling into a busy schedule. Industry-accredited colleges also have students come to campus for a portion of their studies.

Earning a PhD from a program accredited by the American Psychology Association (APA) will qualify you to take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. A passing score is required for state psychology licensure.

With licensure, you could become a practicing psychologist who treats patients. Some psychology professionals also join a college faculty, lead a mental health organization, conduct research, or work as a consultant.

Common Online PhD in Clinical Psychology Concentrations

Most psychology PhD students specialize in a particular area of psychology. Doing so can increase your expertise in that area and tailor your education to your professional goals.

• Child Psychology . For a career spent working with children and their families, you may want a doctoral program that focuses on the psychological needs of young people. You can learn about human development, child-onset disorders, and treatment options for kids and adolescents.
• Forensic Psychology . After completing this specialization, you’ll know more about mental health law, the role of expert witnesses, criminal profiling, and juvenile justice. The courses will help prepare you for a job in the criminal justice system.
• Healthcare Psychology . Professionals in health psychology study the relationship between the mind and the body. They use psychological principles to influence people’s health behaviors and outcomes.
• Industrial-Organizational Psychology . The field of I-O psychology addresses psychological factors—such as conflict, group culture, and change management—in workplace settings. Choosing this track might prepare you to work as a consultant.
• Teaching and Instruction . If you have an academic career in mind, then you might want to choose a teaching specialization that will prepare you for the role. You may learn how to design curriculum, deliver instruction, conduct evaluations, and supervise psychology students.

Your concentration track will probably influence the setting that you choose for your psychology PhD internship. It should play a role in selecting the topic for your dissertation as well.

Clinical Psychology Careers and Salaries

The goal of many students is to earn a clinical psychology PhD so they can become licensed and work as practicing psychologists.

Clinical psychologists may see patients in private clinics, hospitals, and mental health facilities. Although clinical psychology will be your overarching field of practice, your work might overlap with other branches of psychology as well. Depending on your previous training and your professional interests, you might be involved with industrial-organizational, forensic, or school psychology, for example.

You could also work as a counselor or a therapist by a different name. For instance, you might be considered a substance abuse counselor, a mental health counselor, a marriage and family therapist, or a behavioral disorder counselor.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , psychologists earn a median annual salary of $81,040.

Job titles and qualifications for some counseling and therapy roles vary from one state to the next. Earning a doctorate might advance your qualifications for leadership roles.

Some professionals lead other psychologists and counselors as the head of a nonprofit or community agency. Others might manage a healthcare organization, especially one that specializes in the field of mental health. People with PhDs sometimes teach college classes. As a professor, you might work with undergraduate or graduate students. Also, part of that job might involve research.

Being a researcher is a career path that you could pursue outside of an academic setting as well. Social scientists may work for the government or organizations that focus on education, marketing, healthcare, or human services.

Clinical Psychology Doctorate Curriculum & Courses

During your PhD in Psychology program, you can advance your knowledge with classes that provide new information, challenge your thinking, and encourage you to be a curious researcher.

• Advanced Social Psychology : The subfield of social psychology focuses on interactions between individuals and groups and addresses topics like prejudice, conformity, and social pressure.
• Biopsychology : As you study neuroscience, you’ll explore its relationship to psychology and consider the interplay between brain activity and behavior.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy : Studying CBT and related therapies may require both classroom instruction time and experiential learning in a practice setting.
• Development Across the Lifespan : This class will go beyond your undergrad studies in lifespan development and dig into the roles that genetics and environment play in people’s growth.
• History of Psychology : You’ll look into the history and development of psychological study and schools of thought.
• Mental Health and the Legal System : Through studies in mental health law, this class can prepare you to work in the criminal justice system.
• Psychological Tests : This course will teach you to give assessments and tests to patients and accurately interpret the results.
• Psychopathology of Young People : You’ll look at mental and behavioral disorders that begin in childhood, consider their medical classifications, and discuss treatment options.
• Research in Psychology : During one or more courses, you’ll learn about quantitative and qualitative research methods used in the field of psychology.
• Supervising in Psychology : You can learn how to effectively supervise and guide psychology students who are training to become independent practitioners.

In addition, completing your program will likely require an internship that’s worth several credit hours. You may also be required to write a dissertation.

Admissions Requirements

Doctoral programs are rigorous, so you’re often required to submit application materials that show you’re up to the challenge. Common requirements include:

• College transcripts that show courses taken, GPA, and degrees earned
• GRE scores, including the GRE Psychology subject test (often optional or not required)
• Letters of reference
• A resume that shows relevant experience in research or clinical practice
• Sample of your writing

Many schools accept applicants who have earned a Bachelor of Psychology online or on-campus, as well as those with traditional bachelor’s degrees. While a master’s degree or graduate certificate in psychology may not be a requirement, it could potentially reduce the number of doctoral classes that you’re required to take. A growing number of universities now offer a masters in clinical psychology online .

Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs Accreditation

Regional accreditation serves as a testament to a school’s reliability. Colleges apply for accreditation and are evaluated by one of the nation’s seven regional accrediting agencies .

After showing that they meet the organization’s standards, they are approved as regionally accredited institutions. Accreditation can make a difference in your educational experience and your career. Choosing a regionally accredited school is essential for using financial aid, transferring credits, qualifying for licensure, and being hired as a psychologist.

PhD in Clinical Psychology Programs APA Accreditation

In addition to regional accreditation, it’s also advisable to look for programmatic accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA) . This industry organization evaluates doctorate in clinical psychology programs to make sure that they properly prepare students to work as professional psychologists.

Becoming licensed may depend on attending an APA accredited school. State regulations can vary, but accreditation is a common requirement. The APA does not accredit online-only programs, so at least a portion of your studies would need to be done in person.

Clinical Psychology Licensure and Certifications

To work as a professional clinical psychologist who sees patients independently, it’s necessary to become licensed by your state after graduating with your doctorate.

The application packet that you send to your state may include:

• Fee (often several hundred dollars)
• Transcripts showing completion of an APA-accredited psychology doctorate
• Records detailing your practicum and internship hours
• Passing score on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology

In addition, the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) offers board certification in various specialty areas. Examples of specialty areas include forensic psychology, clinical neuropsychology, serious mental illness, police and public safety, and clinical child and adolescent.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

There may be funding opportunities available to you to help you cover the cost of your doctoral studies. State or federal government loans could help with upfront tuition payments. Some students might also receive grants. The first step is to see if you qualify by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

You could explore scholarship or fellowship opportunities from various organizations as well. Examples include national psychology groups or membership associations. Some colleges offer stipends to PhD students, but they may be reserved for those in on-campus programs. If you’re an online student with a full-time job, your workplace might contribute.

What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology?

Having a doctorate in clinical psychology can help qualify you to become licensed in your state as a professional psychologist.

Licensed clinical psychologists work with people who have mental illnesses or other mood or behavioral concerns. Psychologists often see patients in hospitals, mental health clinics, or educational settings. Teaching college classes could be another line of work to consider.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, full-time professors often engage in research in addition to teaching. Some PhD graduates are managers. They may lead teams of healthcare staff or employees of nonprofit mental health organizations.

How Long Is an Online Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program?

You might be able to earn your online doctorate in clinical psychology within 3 to 5 years. It will depend on the program’s requirements and how much time you can commit to your studies. Part-time enrollment usually takes longer than full-time.

Online programs without dissertation requirements may take just 3 years. PhDs that include a dissertation often last longer. The exact length will depend on how quickly your project comes together, but many students spend about 5 years on their PhD studies. Schools often allow up to 7 or 8 years for finishing the program.

What’s the Difference Between PsyD vs. PhD Programs in Clinical Psychology?

There are two types of doctoral programs available to psychology students. Either can lead to a successful career, but it’s worthwhile to learn the differences between them.

Both types of doctoral programs usually include internships and can be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

What’s the Difference Between Doctoral Programs in Clinical Psychology vs. Counseling Psychology?

You can prepare for a career as a psychologist by studying either clinical or counseling psychology.

There are distinctions between these two fields, but even still, there is a lot that these two branches of psychology have in common.

Is a Clinical Psychology PhD Degree Worth It?

Yes, a clinical psychology PhD degree is worth it for many professionals. Clinical psychologists provide treatment for people with mental and emotional health issues, or they offer invaluable research and instruction in that area. This is a career choice that can make a lasting difference in people’s safety, happiness, and well-being.

Employment for psychologists is steady, and some subfields are experiencing notable growth. Overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 6% growth rate for psychology positions over the next decade. In the area of clinical and counseling psychology, a 10% rate of growth is expected.

Getting Your Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Online

Becoming a practicing clinical psychologist requires earning a doctoral degree, and you can take online classes to help fulfill the requirements for this degree.

Through a distance-learning format, you can learn from experienced professors and engage in meaningful assignments. Getting a doctorate in psychology can provide valuable flexibility for working professionals, and you may be able to put some of the lessons into practice right away. After completing your doctorate, you’ll likely be ready to take your career to its next stage.

To find the online opportunity that’s right for you, you can start exploring accredited colleges with PhD in Psychology programs. Match your ambitions with the right degree—click “Find My Program” now.

Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

Browser does not support script.

Go to…

• Our schools
• Work for us
• Inaugural lectures
• Study with us
• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate taught
• Postgraduate research
• Professional training
• Centres & groups
• Research Projects
• Getting involved
• NIHR Biomedical Research Centre
• Research and Development office
• Our connections
• International
• Diversity & inclusion
• Code of conduct
• Inclusive Toolkits

Online distance learning

The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) offers a number of distance learning courses which are delivered 100% online. Students work in small, interactive classes with academic staff, and also receive additional support and guidance.

Psychology and Neuroscience Mental Health MSc, PG Dip, PG Cert

Welcome to the cutting edge of mental health research. The 100% online Psychology & Neuroscience of Mental Health MSc/PGDip/PGCert allows you to benefit from the world-renowned teaching of King’s College London wherever you are. You will gain an unrivalled knowledge of mental health theory, practice and research methods from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), Europe’s largest centre for postgraduate education in its field. The programme is taught online, meaning you can advance your education without taking a break from work or other commitments. There are six entry points throughout the year, allowing you maximum flexibility.

Applied Neuroscience MSc / PG Dip

This innovative qualification from King’s is taught 100% online over two years, and is therefore designed to fit around your work and life commitments. This postgraduate course will allow you to apply your neuroscience knowledge to real world settings. From the research lab to marketing and games design, the application of neuroscience has the potential to deepen your understanding of how the brain and the nervous system serves to drive our every thought, sensation and emotion.

MSc International Programme in Addiction Studies

The International Programme in Addiction Studies (IPAS) is a unique collaboration of three of the world's leading research universities in the field of Addiction Science: The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King's College London, the University of Adelaide, and Virginia Commonwealth University.

This partnership offers three nested graduate programme options available (PG Cert, PG Dip, MSc) to students from around the globe via distance learning technologies. Students are exposed to cutting edge research on subjects ranging from the biological basis of addiction to addiction treatment, prevention and policy, covering key issues from an international viewpoint.

The programme is fully online and does not require any campus visits. Students benefit from access to the online resources of all partner universities. Upon completion of the curriculum, students receive a triple-badge diploma jointly conferred by the three institutions. 100% overall student satisfaction in the 2014/2015 UK Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES). Watch our video on the MSc International Programme in Addiction Studies by visiting the link to the course page below.

Psychology BSc from University of London

This flexible online programme offered by the University of London provides you with a contemporary approach to the study of the human mind. You will gain a thorough understanding of human behaviour and learn to apply psychological science to a variety of contemporary and social challenges.

The content enriched by the IoPPN will have an emphasis on quantitative and qualitative research methods and statistical analysis. Your learning experience will be enhanced with an accessible and attractive learning platform as well as opportunities for self-assessment.

Students can complete the BSc in Psychology in a minimum of three years (subject to module availability) or a maximum of six years. Your bachelor’s degree with honours will be awarded by the University of London with academic direction from King's College London. Find out more and apply

Free online courses

Understanding ADHD: Current Research and Practice

Learn about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) including ADHD symptoms, the latest…

Understanding Drugs and Addiction

How do addictions develop? How are they best treated and prevented? Explore these key questions with…

Caring for People with Psychosis and Schizophrenia

Explore the key issues related to caring for a relative with psychosis or schizophrenia, with this…

Study at King’s

View a prospectus.

Learn more about the degree programmes on offer at King's. Download or view a prospectus in PDF format.

• Undergraduate prospectus
• Postgraduate guide

Sign up for further information

Receive email updates about our courses, events, fees and funding, studying in London, how to apply and more.

Upcoming events

There are no recruitment events currently available.