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The clinical program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System.

Your program will typically be fully funded for five years thanks to stipend grant support and guaranteed teaching fellowships. Tuition support is also available for a six-year program. Funding is also available for research, travel, and conferences. You will have access to the latest technology at FAS Research Computing and the Neuroimaging Facility at the Center for Brain Science.

Examples of student dissertations and theses include “Childhood Anxiety Disorders: Developmental Risk Factors and Predictors of Treatment Response,” “Clarifying the Pathway to Suicide: An Examination of Subtypes of Suicidal Behavior and Their Association with Impulsiveness,” and “A Cognitive Neuroscience of Social Groups.”

Graduates have secured positions in academia at prestigious institutions such as Princeton University, Dartmouth College, and Columbia University. Others have embarked on careers with companies such as Facebook, BetterUp, and Apple.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Psychology and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Areas of Study

Cognition, Brain, and Behavior | Experimental Psychopathology and Clinical | Developmental | Social Psychology

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Psychology .

Academic Background

While an undergraduate concentration in psychology is not required, some social science coursework is recommended. Because the program is heavily quantitatively oriented, college-level math and statistics are also advised. Research experience is extremely helpful; successful applicants have often worked for professors, done research projects as part of college courses, written an undergraduate thesis, or volunteered in a psychology research lab.

Please Note: Before making the decision to apply, the program in Psychology suggests checking individual faculty/lab websites or emailing faculty directly to inquire whether they plan to consider applicants for Fall 2024 admission. It’s important to note that while individual faculty members may have every intention of bringing in a new student this year, we cannot guarantee that they will all be able to do so. The total number of offers of admission to be extended by the graduate program is based on applicant preparedness and fit, availability of university advising and support resources, and target class size. Some of these factors are not able to be determined until after the applicant pool has been finalized.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Optional

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Psychology

See list of Psychology faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

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Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs of 2024

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

The decision to pursue a doctoral degree is never easy: A lot of time, energy, and money are involved. But if you know what you're getting into, an online doctorate in psychology can open up a whole world of cool career options.

For example, Dr. Erin Reynolds used her doctorate in psychology to become a clinical sports neuropsychologist. She's now the director of Baylor Scott and White Sports Concussion Program in Texas, as well as the team neuropsychologist for the NFL Dallas Cowboys, the WNBA Dallas Wings, and the entire XFL minor league.

"I have a dream job treating professional and amateur athletes with sports-related concussions," said Reynolds. "This type of work was not even on my radar when I started graduate school, and now I have a job that many people don't even realize is a possibility."

Doctorate in Psychology Programs You Should Consider

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Online + Campus

Cost per Semester: $1,321

Credits to Graduate: 60

Keiser University's Ph.D. in psychology online program offers a non-clinical, research-based curriculum. Students can pursue careers conducting studies of diverse populations' behaviors, teaching at the university level, or consulting. Distance learners can take one or two classes at a time to balance school with other responsibilities.

Keiser admits students with master's degrees in relevant fields or bachelor's degrees in psychology or behavioral science with a 3.0 GPA. Bachelor's-level students complete an additional 18 hours of courses and a thesis.

Saybrook University

• Pasadena, CA

Cost per Credit: $1,590

Credits to Graduate: 65

The online Ph.D. in psychology program at Saybrook University features four specializations: consciousness, spirituality, and integrative health; creativity, innovation, and leadership; existential, humanistic, and transpersonal psychology; and psychophysiology. This non-licensure Ph.D. program prepares graduates to develop and improve programs in education, community health facilities, the justice system, and nonprofit organizations.  

Courses take place online except for mandatory residential orientations and conferences. Students can complete their degrees in 5-6 years, including a dissertation. Applicants must hold a master's degree.

University of Arizona Global Campus

• Chandler, AZ

Cost per Credit: $1,082

Credits to Graduate: 62

The UAGC's doctor of psychology program offers specializations in criminology and justice studies; health and wellness psychology; and sport and performance psychology. The accelerated, four-year online program requires three in-residence workshops, a capstone seminar, and an applied doctoral project or dissertation. 

Graduates do not qualify for licensure but can pursue positions in postsecondary education, consulting, and management. Applicants need a graduate degree and a 3.0 GPA. Up to 30 transfer credits can apply toward the Psy.D.

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We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2024. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies

Why Should I Get an Online Doctorate in Psychology?

A doctorate in psychology can give you access to higher-paid clinical, research, and industry roles with more responsibility and impact. But given how expensive and demanding the process of earning a Ph.D. can be, it's important to make sure the benefits support your personal and professional goals.

The decision to attend an online doctorate in psychology program may help you better meet these goals. Firstly, online programs provide flexibility and work-life balance , allowing you to attend classes from anywhere, potentially eliminating the need to take time off work or arrange childcare. Additionally, it offers cost savings as online programs often have lower tuition fees and eliminate expenses related to commuting, on-campus fees, and accommodations.

What Are the Benefits of a Doctorate in Psychology?

• An online doctoral degree in psychology will expand and deepen your clinical and theoretical knowledge.
• A psychology doctorate can help you qualify for roles in teaching, research, and advanced clinical positions.
• Doctoral degree graduates told BestColleges that the effort was worth it.
• Grads can go on to leverage their degrees into fascinating, well-paid careers.

The American Psychological Association does not grant accreditation to doctoral programs that are exclusively online. So, if you want to work as a clinical or counseling psychologist, be sure to select a program that facilitates the supervised learning required for licensure. All of the programs in our rankings are fully accredited .

Is a Doctorate in Psychology Worth It?

Here's what people who have earned a doctorate in psychology have to say:

“I absolutely believe my degree to be worth it. It has allowed me a seat at the table for so many relevant issues, like mental health, LGBTQ+ youth issues, social media addiction, and more. My knowledge and expertise is highly sought after, which means the return on investment has been high.”

— Corey Emanuel , Ph.D., media psychologist

“It was worth it for me. A doctoral degree massively impacts the way people interact with you as a professional. You become the authority on theory and practice; it's a big responsibility. It has opened doors for me that I don't think would have opened otherwise. I've had opportunities to work with corporations, on research, and with clients who were only interested in doctoral-level clinicians. And it's often the case that doctoral-level clinicians are paid more by agencies or in private practice than the average masters-level clinician.”

— Kamran Esthehardi, , Ph.D., clinical psychologist

“I'd say it's worth it for the sense of purpose and fulfillment you acquire. But financially, you may end up with substantial student loan debt and a moderate level of income – so it really depends on how you define 'worth it'.”

— Christopher Stack , Psy.D, clinical psychologist

Popular Concentrations and Specializations for Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Doctoral programs in psychology offer many concentrations and specializations to cater to the diverse interests and career goals of students. These specialized areas of study enable you to delve deeper into specific aspects of psychology.

Popular concentrations and specializations for a doctoral program in psychology include:

• Counseling Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity
• Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
• Trauma and Disaster Relief
• Developmental Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Gerontology
• Behavioral Health Leadership

Top Career Paths With a Doctorate in Psychology

An online doctorate in psychology prepares you for the most advanced careers in the field: You can become a professor, researcher, practicing psychologist, or even branch out into industry roles.

"If you understand how people work, you don't necessarily need to stay in the field of psychology," said Dr. Inna Post , who leveraged her degree into coaching, consulting, and development. "You can expand."

A doctorate in psychology can also help you gain entry into a number of niche, unexpected careers. Dr. Corey Emanuel , for example, got his Ph.D. in psychology with a concentration in media. He is now the CEO of his own creative production company.

"My career continues to be full of surprises in the best ways. On any given day, I'm approached by journalists, producers, studio executives, clinical psychologists, and even students who are seeking to better understand some psychological phenomenon linked to media consumption," said Dr. Emanuel. "Being a media psychologist is a fascinating career choice."

How Much Money Can I Make With an Online Doctorate in Psychology?

Graduates with a doctorate in psychology earn an average salary of about $92,000, according to Payscale data from September 2023. This is approximately $29,000 more per year than those with a master's in psychology.

Your salary will also vary depending on your specialty. For example, clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median annual salary of around $96,000, while industrial-organizational psychologists earn around $147,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

It is important to note that these figures may also vary depending on your experience and location.

Median Annual Wage for Psychologists, May 2022

Clinical and Counseling Psychologists

Industrial/Organizational Psychologists

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Read More: Discover More Psychology Careers

Read More: Explore The Highest-Paying Psychology Jobs

How Much Does an Online Doctorate in Psychology Cost?

The average annual cost of an online doctorate in psychology is $14,470 in tuition and fees or $38,300 total per year, including non-tuition expenses. If it takes you six years to complete your doctorate, you can expect to pay a total of $86,820 in tuition and fees and roughly $165,000 total.

Note: There are ways to reduce the cost of a doctoral degree:

• Graduate students may qualify for scholarships , grants, and fellowships .
• Some Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs may offer funding, tuition waivers, health insurance, and stipends.
• Many online programs offer accelerated degree programs , which can help you save on time and tuition.

Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Doctorate Degree

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Read More: Financial Aid Guide for Graduate Students

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How Long Does an Online Doctorate in Psychology Take?

You can expect to spend between 5-7 years completing your doctoral degree in psychology.

Average Length of Time*

Required course credits*.

*Varies depending on your school/program

Doctoral programs in counseling and clinical psychology will also require fieldwork and an internship or practicum experience . Online students can often arrange to complete these requirements at approved sites in their local communities.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Doctorate in Psychology?

Most programs require the following:

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Everything else you need to know about an online doctorate in psychology program.

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What can I expect from an online doctorate in psychology program?

First, you will need to choose between two types of online doctorate programs in psychology: a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) or a doctor of philosophy in psychology (Ph.D).

"I would say the Ph.D. is better for people interested in academia and research, while a Psy.D. has a stronger clinical focus," said Christopher Stack, Psy.D. "But students should be aware that a Ph.D. program typically takes a bit longer - which may result in more student debt."

Whichever path you take, you can expect to:

• Face a competitive application process
• Undergo four years of full-time coursework
• Sit for qualifying exams, usually between years two and three
• Complete a dissertation in which you design an original research project and report on your findings
• Complete an internship or practicum in the field

What courses will I take in an online doctorate in psychology program?

The curriculum is largely determined by specialization, but core courses for most programs include research methods, professional ethics, and human development.

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

No. Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs are equally prestigious and well-respected, and both will qualify you for clinical practice. If you're interested in research or teaching, a Ph.D. may prepare you better for those roles. If you're interested primarily in a clinical career, a Psy.D. is a great option.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges.

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Organizational psychology careers.

What Are the Different Types of Psychology Degrees?

Bachelor’s in Psychology Degree Guide

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Psychology Graduate Program

• Psychology Department

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 requirements for licensure in Massachusetts, and is accredited by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) and by the American Psychological Association (APA).  PCSAS re-accredited the program on December 15, 2022 for a 10-year term. APA most recently 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 3900 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 1951 Intermediate Quantitative Methods
• PSY 1952 Multivariate Analysis in Psychology
• PSY 2040 Contemporary Topics in Psychopathology
• PSY 2460 Diagnostic Interviewing
• PSY 2420 Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Psychological Disorders

Clinical students must also take one course in each of the following substantive areas: biological bases of behavior (e.g., PSY 1202 Modern Neuroanatomy; PSY 1325 The Emotional, Social Brain; PSY 1355 The Adolescent Brain; PSY 1702 The Emotional Mind); social bases of behavior (e.g., PSY 2500 Proseminar in Social Psychology); cognitive-affective bases of behavior (e.g., PSY 2400 Cognitive Psychology and Emotional Disorders); and individual differences (Required course PSY 2040 Contemporary Topics in Psychopathology fulfills the individual differences requirement for Massachusetts licensure). 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  

1. 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 e-mail at:  [email protected] . 

• Clinical Internship Allowance

Harvard Clinical Psychology Student Handbook

Department of Psychology

You are here, overview of the program.

These are remarkable times for psychology. Scientific breakthroughs concerning the biological, emotional, cognitive, and social basis of normal and abnormal behavior are reported in the media almost daily. The faculty associated with the Department of Psychology at Yale University represents the cutting edge of research and scholarship in this broad and exciting field.

The primary goal of graduate education in psychology at Yale University is the training of researchers, for academic and applied settings, who will broaden and deepen the knowledge base on which the science of psychology rests. The graduate program in the Department of Psychology annually enrolls about 15 new Ph.D. students. When applying to the Department, each potential graduate student indicates one of five areas of concentration, and usually has a “home” in a particular lab, but it is also possible to collaborate with faculty and students in other labs and participate in programs that cut across these traditional areas (e.g., cognitive, affective and social neuroscience; health sciences).

Our Department has an illustrious history, but, more important, continues to reinvigorate itself by recruiting the most outstanding scholars we can identify in clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, neuroscience, and social-personality psychology, with special efforts to attract those whose interests bridge these areas. These scholars include faculty, research scientists, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and undergraduates in Psychology and other programs (e.g., the School of Management, Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program).

A primary objective of our graduate program is to encourage research that follows from an understanding of the substantive and methodological bases of scientific psychology as well as from other social and biological sciences. We encourage students to appreciate the multiple historical and theoretical contexts from which the field has emerged, and to create an environment that facilitates student and faculty interest and participation in research activities. Moreover, many members of the faculty are committed to exploring the impact of their work on individual, community, and societal problems. Consequently, faculty and student interests and research often bridge basic science to issues of public policy, providing opportunities for students to develop broad areas of expertise.

We are deeply committed to graduate education and are eager to work closely with students to help them take advantage of the rich offerings of our Department and University in ways that suit their interests and talents. Our department is a thriving and diverse intellectual community that is committed to a culture of inclusiveness. The relatively small size of our graduate program and the large number of primary and affiliated faculty ensure that each student receives extensive attention in following an individualized curriculum. Over the years, we have cultivated a supportive environment that provides rigorous training. Our program is an active, exciting, flexible, and challenging setting in which qualified students who share our interests thrive. We welcome your application.

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5 Types of Psychology Degrees

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

Psychology degree options can include those at the undergraduate and graduate levels . The five main types of degrees are an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, a PhD, and a PsyD. A psychology degree can help prepare students for careers in various fields, including mental health, education, counseling, research, and applied fields.

For students thinking about earning a psychology degree , it's important to understand what level of education they will need to enter their chosen career path. For some professions, a bachelor's degree might be sufficient. Other career paths might require some type of graduate degree.

Here are the types of psychology degrees, how long each one takes to earn, and the career options available at each degree level.

Associate Degree in Psychology

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An associate degree in psychology is an undergraduate-level degree that usually takes two years to complete. The associate degree option is often offered at community colleges, and many students then transfer to a state university to complete a bachelor's degree.

To be blunt, there aren't many jobs available at the associate level. Most entry-level psychology professions require a bachelor's degree at the very minimum. An associate degree is commonly used as a stepping stone toward earning a bachelor's and is a great way to gain a solid background in psychology before moving on to more advanced studies.

One possible job option with an associate degree in psychology is to work as a psychiatric technician in a state mental hospital. In some states, you may also qualify for certain social work jobs, such as a casework aide or an addictions counselor assistant.

Bachelor's Degree in Psychology

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A bachelor's degree in psychology is an undergraduate-level degree that typically takes four years to complete. At many universities, students can choose between a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree . Generally speaking, B.A. degrees tend to require more liberal arts general education courses, while B.S. degrees require more science general education courses.

In most cases, there is a much wider range of job opportunities in psychology for those with a graduate degree. However, a bachelor's degree serves as a solid basis for further graduate study in psychology and does offer a limited selection of entry-level career options .

According to one survey, only about 27% of people with a bachelor's in psychology end up working in a field closely related to their degree. A few common job titles for people with this type of degree include case managers, psychiatric technicians, career counselors , and rehabilitation specialists. Bachelor's degree holders often find work in other areas, including sales, management, and teaching.

Master's Degree in Psychology

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A master's degree in psychology is a graduate-level degree that usually takes between two and three years beyond the bachelor's degree to complete. Like the bachelor's degree, students can usually choose between a Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Science (M.S.) in psychology.

Jobs at the master's level are far more plentiful than those at the bachelor's level, which is why this is one of the most popular degree options. While some master's programs offer what is known as a terminal degree, or an end-level degree designed to prepare students for the workforce, other master's programs focus on preparing students for doctoral-level study.

Graduates with a master's degree can find jobs in a variety of areas, including mental health services, government agencies, and business fields. While there are some opportunities for teaching at colleges and universities, these positions tend to be limited and highly competitive. A few job titles that a master's degree holder might find include marriage and family therapist, rehabilitative counselor, school counselor, and human resources manager.

Ph.D. in Psychology

A Ph.D. in psychology , or doctor of philosophy in psychology, is a doctoral-level degree that can take four to six years of graduate study to complete. The Ph.D. degree tends to take a more research-oriented approach than the Psy.D., but it does include both theoretical and applied training.

There are also a wide variety of specialty areas to choose from. Your choice will largely depend on what you choose to do after you graduate. If you're interested in working in psychotherapy or possibly opening your own private practice, you might want to earn a Ph.D . in either clinical or counseling psychology.

If you're interested in working in teaching, research, or an applied area, you might choose to earn a Ph.D. in a specialty like social, developmental, industrial-organizational, or experimental psychology .

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)

The Psy.D., or doctor of psychology, was created as an alternative to the traditional Ph.D. Psy.D. programs tend to be more focused on the professional practice of psychology. Those who earn a Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology and pass the required licensing exams are qualified to diagnose and treat mental disorders, conduct psychological tests, and provide psychotherapy.

In most cases, the Psy.D. degree takes approximately four to seven years to complete. During this time, students receive extensive training in topics such as diagnosing mental illness, performing psychological assessments, and conducting clinical interventions.

Just as with the Ph.D. degree, Psy.D. students are required to complete a supervised practicum and internship in a clinical setting. The practicum usually involves working part-time under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, while the internship is a full-time position that lasts at least one year.

Once students have completed their required coursework, practicum, and internship, they can take the state and national licensing exams.

A Word From Verywell

You have many options for which educational path to take in psychology, and it's wise to explore which careers each degree can open for you. Invest your education dollars wisely to meet your goals.

American Psychological Association.  By the numbers: How do undergraduate psychology majors fare ?

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Psychology Doctoral Degrees

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Updated July 12, 2023 · 5 Min Read

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Is a Psy.D. Program Right For You?

Psy.D. programs provide an alternative to Ph.D. in psychology programs that heavily emphasize research methods. Psy.D. candidates focus more on clinical practice and pragmatic aspects of psychology. This means learners explore coursework in human development, psychological assessment, and methods of behavior more than in a Ph.D. program.

The Psy.D. program places more emphasis on the culminating internship and practicum elements than the dissertation. The program benefits learners looking to transition quickly from the doctoral degree into clinical work.

A Psy.D. program prepares you for work as a clinical psychologist in many different environments. Some psychology specialties, such as pain and pediatric psychology, call for a Psy.D., where you complete an internship relating to these specialized areas of practice.

Psy.D. vs a Ph.D. in Psychology

Though both the Psy.D. and Ph.D. require APA accreditation for licensure and employment, some important differences exist between these two degrees. The typical Psy.D. program features less competitive admissions standards and less research-related coursework than a Ph.D. A Psy.D. often takes less time, 4-6 years, to complete than a Ph.D., 5-7 years.

Online Psychology Doctoral Degree Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Can I Expect From a Psy.D. Program?

Typically, you can anticipate spending between four and six years completing your Psy.D. program, depending on whether you take classes part- or full-time. Most Psy.D. degrees comprise 60 credits. Completing your Psy.D. at a part-time pace can lead to your program taking closer to six years and costing slightly more than if you took classes full-time.

A Psy.D. program concludes with clinical hours and a dissertation. For the dissertation, learners complete a long-form essay or doctoral project, keeping up with American Psychological Association (APA) requirements.

The Psy.D. learning experience concentrates more on the clinical requirements. Learners complete their clinical hours in two parts: a practicum precedes an internship within the last two semesters. Most programs require degree candidates to spend around 2,000-3,000 hours in clinical practice. Psy.D. degrees more heavily emphasize practical skills to prepare learners for lucrative and high-responsibility careers in clinical settings.

Psy.D. Curriculum

The curriculum for a Psy.D. program covers the essential skills that clinical psychologists need to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health problems and illnesses in both one-on-one and group settings. They study the fundamentals of human development and neuropsychological assessment practice to inform career-specific skills, such as group work intervention and family therapy.

• Lifespan Development: To understand the scientific foundations of psychology, learners take coursework in the different cognitive, behavioral, and emotional stages of development in human life.
• Professional Issues: Degree candidates take coursework on the legal, ethical, and professional issues entailed within contemporary psychology and how they influence practice in the context of multidisciplinary managed care.
• Group Interventions: Students get an overview of intervention techniques for group therapy work that encompass psychotherapy, relaxation techniques, and education, often in the context of substance abuse issues and mood disorders.
• Family Therapy: This course explores the theoretical underpinnings of assessment strategies and intervention techniques for family and couples therapy, often also addressing multicultural influences on practice.
• Neuropsychological Assessment: Learners survey the anatomical, empirical, and clinical fundamentals of neuropsychological assessment, including techniques for interpreting and documenting assessments. The course often incorporates a practice lab component.

What Are the Admissions Requirements for a Psy.D.?

Palo alto university.

• Minimum Education Level: Bachelor's
• Minimum Undergraduate GPA: 3.3
• Required Standardized Tests GRE

Indiana State University

• Minimum Undergraduate GPA: 3.0

What Kinds of Psychology Careers Can I Pursue With a Psy.D.?

Graduates who hold a Psy.D. may work in a variety of lucrative clinical careers relating to psychology , sociology, and education. Psychologists typically make around $79,010 annually. Marriage and family therapist or school and career counselor careers offer comfortable salary expectations at $50,090 and $56,310, respectively.

Psy.D. Careers and Average Pay

Psychologist.

Average Annual Salary: $79,010

Marriage and Family Therapist

Average Annual Salary: $50,090

Postsecondary Teacher

Average Annual Salary: $78,470

Sociologist

Average Annual Salary: $82,050

School and Career Counselor

Average Annual Salary: $56,310

Check out Some of the Top Ph.D. in Psychology Programs

If it seems likely that a doctoral psychology program with a more intensive research component would better suit your interests as a learner, you should give strong consideration to pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology rather than a Psy.D.Follow this link for a primer on criteria to consider for choosing the right Ph.D. in psychology program.

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PhD Program

The PhD is conferred upon candidates who have demonstrated substantial scholarship and the ability to conduct independent research and analysis in Psychology.

A student typically concentrates in one of several areas within Psychology. Across all areas, the training program emphasizes the development of research competence, and students are encouraged to develop skills and attitudes that are appropriate to a career of continuing research productivity.

Two kinds of experience are necessary for this purpose. One is the learning of substantial amounts of theoretical, empirical, computational and methods information . A number of courses and seminars are provided to assist in this learning, and students are expected to construct a program in consultation with their advisor(s) to obtain this knowledge in the most stimulating and economical fashion.

A second aspect of training is one that cannot be gained from the courses or seminars. This is first-hand knowledge of, and practical experience with, the methods of psychological investigation and study . Therefore, students are expected to spend half of their time on research and to take no more than 10 units of course work per quarter, beginning in the first quarter.

Students achieve competence in unique ways and at different rates. Students and advisors work together to plan a program to accomplish these objectives.

If current students have any questions about the PhD program, please email the Student Services Manager, Dena Zlatunich, at  denamz [at] stanford.edu (denamz[at]stanford[dot]edu) . The current Director of Graduate Studies is Professor Hyo Gwoen.

If you are interested in applying for our PhD program, please carefully review the information on the  PhD Admissions website . Follow-up questions can be directed to the admissions staff at  psych-admissions [at] stanford.edu (psych-admissions[at]stanford[dot]edu) .

What is a PhD in Psychology?

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When surveying the options available in PhD programs, an important distinction to make is whether you want to work in a psychology-related field such as counseling, social work, therapy or education; or if you are striving to get a diploma conferring a "Doctorate of Psychology." Novices quite frequently confuse the academic Discipline of Psychology with alternative disciplines which are psychology-related and in the mental health field.

The "Doctorate of Psychology"

If you want to earn a doctorate in the discipline of psychology, you will  be presented with 2 options from which to choose within the field: you will be able to enroll in either a doctoral program which grants a Ph.D. or one that will culminate in the awarding of the Psy.D.  Scholars who are focused on research, data collection and processing, academics, professorship and authorship are best suited for the Ph.D. in Psychology. Individuals who are interested in research but are more people and practice-driven as well as; desirous of being on the front lines working with patients, interested in methodologies and enjoy making educational theory a reality are well served by enrolling in a Psy.D. program.

Dr. Emma Mansour is a licensed psychologist and founder of  "Life Matters Counseling and Psychological Services, LLC., with locations in Salt Lake City and Farmington, Utah.  Dr. Mansour is a graduate of  the Counseling Psychology Program at the University of Utah, as well as a former instructor. She has taught classes in Developmental Psychology, Group Counseling, Personality Psychology and Counseling Skills. In her capacity as educator, Dr. Mansour has come in contact and consulted with many students facing these exact questions. Regarding the choice between the Ph.D. and the Psy.D. her advice is straightforward;

"My advice would depend on the student's ultimate career goal. If the goal is to become a professor and engage in teaching and research as a career, there is really no option but to get a PhD. If the student is not interested in teaching or research and just wanted to be a private practicing psychologist, I would advise that they consider a PsyD program."

Learn more about a psychology doctoral degree .

Do I need a PhD to Achieve My Goals?

One of the pressing questions doctoral candidates face is whether or not they are primarily only interested in a career as a practicing counselor, therapist or educator. If this happens to be the case, technically speaking they do not need to go beyond the Master's Degree in Counseling, Therapy, Social Work, etc., to reach their goals. In other words, various careers  are accessible with a master's degree and do not require a PhD. On the other hand, some careers are only available if you have a PhD. This is the point at which clarification of your career objectives becomes imperative. Getting a PhD is an arduous process and if you are unsure of your ultimate goals, it is advised you thoroughly research all of your options. Experts agree: it pays to do your "homework" before you enroll in a doctoral program.

"Becoming a psychologist, versus a counselor or therapist, is certainly a longer process but it affords you many more possibilities and will ultimately open many more doors for you as a professional, both from the status of the degree to the possibility of branching out into many other areas. It is important to bear in mind that a students' current interests will likely change over the course of their career so the broader degree allows for ongoing growth and opportunity."

How Long Will it Take to Get a PhD in Psychology?

Universities are highly unique in their approaches to their doctoral programs. For example, UCLA's program is 6 years. In describing their program they write, "The Ph.D. program is a six year, full-time only program." In other words, students do not have the option of attending part-time. Many PhD programs can be completed within 5 years; most of them typically require the equivalent of 72 semester units. The design of the program can greatly influence the length of time it takes to earn the PhD; even for doctorates earned at the same institution. For example, NYU has 2 Psychology PhD programs: the PhD in Cognition and Perception and the PhD in Social Psychology. Although each doctorate requires 72 semester units, students who are "Teaching or Research Assistants" in the Cognition and Perception program usually take 3 courses per semester; the remaining student schedules are more flexible. Thus someone taking 2 courses a semester will graduate later than those taking 3 classes a semester. Most programs also have a maximum time limit to complete the PhD; at NYU if the matriculant has not finished their requirements after 7 years, their enrollment in the program is likely to be terminated.

Some of the questions you'll want to research with regards to the amount of time you will be in school are:

• Is the college on a semester or quarter system and how many units are required to complete the PhD in Psychology?
• Does the program have a minimum number of units to complete each quarter or semester?
• Is the program strictly full-time or is there a part-time option?
• Is there a time maximum within which the program must be completed?
• Is there a time limit condition on program grants, awards or special financing?

What Types of Classes Will I Take in a PhD Program?

PhD programs in the field of psychology consist of some or all of the following categories of study:

• Core Content Classes and Advanced Elective Courses
• Oral Examinations
• Presentation of Papers
• Practicum & Teaching
• Internships
• Special Event, Conference or Convention Attendance
• Doctoral Dissertation Proposal, Submission and Defense

Elements of the PhD in Psychology

• Core Content Classes and Advanced Elective Courses: The length and depth of core classes depend heavily on the nature of the PhD program and the university. Each college program varies on how many units are required, the title of the courses and how much emphasis is put on the ratio of research/clinical. Below is a very generalized sampling of what to expect.

Core classes prepare the student for the in-depth research they will embark upon as they advance in their prospective careers. Statistical proficiency is an important aspect of every program; examples of courses include:

• Mathematical Tools for Cognitive Science and Neuroscience (NYU)
• Statistics courses (UCLA)
• Developmental Psychology (Stanford)
• Foundations of Cognition (Stanford)
• Exploratory-Graphical Data Analysis (Vanderbilt)
• Multivariate Analysis (Vanderbilt)
• Psychological and Educational Measurement (Vanderbilt)

Advanced Electives: Some examples of Advanced Elective courses from NYU are:

• Principles of Neuroimaging
• Research in Social Psychology
• Cognitive Development
• Psycholinguistics
• Cellular, Molecular & Developmental Neuroscience
• Language Acquisition
• Biobehavioral Mechanisms of Stress and Disease
• Research: Every university expects the student to constantly be involved with research throughout their years of training. Throughout the process of research, students are supervised by at least one member of the faculty in some form of an advisory role. However, differences in a university's research emphasis, timing, manner of execution and application of research requirements is one of the factors you will confront when choosing a PhD program. For example, research dominates the 8 UCLA program specialties from which to choose. They write:

"Students are admitted by one of the department's eight areas: Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical, Cognitive, Developmental Psychology, Health Psychology, Learning and Behavior, Quantitative and Social. With rare exception, this area affiliation is retained throughout a student's stay in the program. Much of the program is administered by the areas."   Also- " All areas are research-oriented. This applies to the Clinical area as well: although this area offers excellent clinical training, the emphasis lies in research, not in training private practitioners."    

At UCLA research is included in the core curriculum and has a designated time sequence:

"The core program has three parts: a two-quarter statistics series, four courses selected from among special offerings in each of the seven areas, and a two or three quarter research sequence. In the latter sequence the student designs, conducts, and writes up a research project under the direction of two faculty members. Core-program work is completed by the end of the second year."

In slight contrast, while the program at Vanderbilt also emphasizes research- "We expect students to be continually involved in research throughout their tenure in our program;" their description of the first 2 years is quite different:

"The faculty attempt always to tailor graduate training to meet the needs and the interests of each individual student" and "The curriculum is designed to: (a) familiarize students with the major areas of psychology; (b) provide specialized training in at least one of the five specific areas of psychology emphasized in the program; and (c) provide students sufficient flexibility to enroll in classes consistent with their interests and long-term developmental trajectory. During the first two years, students take several core courses in quantitative methods and in substantive areas. Beyond this, the program consists of seminars, further research participation, and other inquiries expressly designed to fulfill career objectives."

• Oral Examinations: As a PhD candidate you will need to be prepared to undertake oral examinations as part of the qualifying and requirements processes. Oral examinations can take place at both the MA/MS level as well as the PhD level. This method of examination may prove helpful in preparing for a license; according to the American Psychological Association (APA) 21 states require an oral examination to qualify for licensure.
• Presentation of Papers : Some universities may require the submission of yearly papers and encourage students to present these papers at conventions or other academic events. For example, one of the research requirements at NYU is a first, second and third year paper (the third year paper may or may not be the dissertation proposal, depending on the program). While students are not required to present papers, under a bold heading in the PhD Cognition and Perception program requirements it reads:

Highly Recommended

" Presentation of Research Papers at Professional Meetings The Program strongly encourages its students to present papers (or posters) on their research at relevant professional meetings around the country as a "real life" part of their education in becoming professional scientists and educators and to aid them in forming contacts for possible jobs and postdocs after the Ph.D."

• Practica: If you have tried to understand what a practicum is and have failed, do not dismay. Even the experts in the field admit that it means different things in different places. In the report, "Report on Practicum Competencies" by The Association of Directors of Psychology Training Clinics (ADPTC) Practicum Competencies Workgroup: Robert L. Hatcher, Ph.D. & Kim Dudley Lassiter, Ph.D. answer the question in the following way:

What is a Practicum?

Psychology programs vary considerably in their definition of practicum. Some consider the experience at their department’s in-house clinic to be the practicum, and may call subsequent pre-internship training in other settings  “traineeships.”  Others classify all pre-internship clinical experience as practica; others limit this definition to supervised experience only. This document is based on the definition that practicum experience includes all supervised pre-internship clinical training."

One of the strong suggestions made by the APA is that your practicum time is a phase of preparation for your internship. In the APA published cover article, "Steps to the Match: Laying the groundwork to land an internship starts on day one of your program" by Christopher Munsey, the author offers an informative, easy-to-read and must-read regarding practica for every psychology PhD candidate. The author outlines the best possible uses of time during "all supervised pre-internship clinical training."  Munsey advises that during your practicum you:

• Establish a positive connection with all practicum supervisors
• Acknowledge areas in which you excel and be sure to become and remain teachable in areas in which you perform poorly
• Work with all types of people; diversity in experience is a plus
• Develop superior communication skills
• Identify target internships
• Progress check to ensure your experiences are in alignment with your internship goals
• Accumulate lots of hours and keep immaculate records
• Network with psychologists
• Rehearse interviewing
• Give presentations

Teaching Requirements

Doctoral programs can include teaching experience as a requirement for successful completion of the degree. Each university has unique mandates about the nature of the teaching experience and when it occurs.

• Pre-Doctoral Internships: Currently (2016) the topic of the psychology internship is of serious concern. CareersInPsychology.org explains in detail the current dilemma which the APA is addressing in the article, " Internships in Counseling: Shedding Light on the Explosive 'Match .'"

To summarize, doctoral students are paired with internships which have earned APA approval. This process is called the "Match." The crisis stems from a profound lack of APA approved internships. While the APA is making strides in bridging the gap, the problem remains substantial. The progress made since 2012 is hopeful: in 2012 there were 1,041 students who could not progress in their doctoral studies because there were not enough matches. By 2015 the APA had reduced the number to 689 students. ( The APA Report can be accessed by following this link . ) For some students, waiting the year(s) to be matched was not an option. Some did non-approved internships, which had lifelong consequences.

A doctorate which includes a non-approved internship means that even when the PhD is granted, the graduated can never work for the Veterans Administration (one of, if not the largest employer of psychologists in the nation) or any military/government organizations. Secondly, many states will not grant a license to practice without an APA approved internship. The   Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) has a database within which the  Handbook of Licensing and Certification Requirements can be accessed. Before reviewing the handbook, however, you will have to provide the ASPPB with basic information about yourself. (The link provided for the Handbook will take you immediately to the questionnaire.) In retrospect, it becomes clear why the APA advises you to begin to work on getting your internship as soon as you begin your doctoral program; if you do not, you might not finish the program.

• Special Event, Conference or Convention Attendance: While not every university requires you to attend events, some have a form of scholastically-based group which is a graduation requirement. The PhD degree requirements at NYU have two examples:

"Brown Bag Seminar: All members of the program are expected to participate in the weekly Brown Bag seminar. The seminar meets informally, over lunch, and is a forum for presenting current and planned research. Each student is required to present on his or her research once a year. The seminar is a key component of student training over the five years of doctoral study.

Mini-Convention: The Mini-Convention is a day-long, convention-type meeting currently held on the Friday a week-and-a-half after Labor Day in September. Faculty and students of the Program attend this meeting which provides a training experience in convention-style oral presentation. All first- and second-year students are required to present talks based on their research projects. Upper-year students with well-worked-out, interesting findings to report are encouraged to present talks, as well as those who have not presented at a Brown Bag for the past academic year."

• Doctoral Dissertation Proposal, Submission and Defense: The dissertation is required by all PhD students. This voluminous composition  includes and represents the entirety of the candidate's body of work, research and study focus. It presents an original thesis which the student is prepared to propose, submit and defend.

Proposal: Preparation for the dissertation-the proposal, begins and varies according to each university program. Examples of requirements from the colleges utilized thus far are:

NYU: " Dissertation Proposal . In the third year, it is expected that each student will have sufficiently clarified his or her interests to be able to formally propose a dissertation project." Note: NYU offers 2 choices regarding the dissertation. The student can present the Traditional Thesis or choose a " Publication Route ."

UCLA: " By the fourth year a student should have enough experience and knowledge of current research issues to begin formulating a dissertation proposal."

HARVARD: " The Dissertation Prospectus: By the end of the spring semester of their penultimate year, students must complete a dissertation prospectus for an original project that is meant to culminate in the dissertation."

Basic Elements of a Proposal: The following is a general list of what is contained in the proposal.

• Importance of the topic: The proposal should provide intellectual rationale for why the thesis is critical to the field of study
• A review of the literature currently in existence on the topic
• An explanation of the theoretical basis of the proposed thesis
• Detailed description of the research methods to be used
• Comprehensive discussion of proposed analyses
• Projected implications of the topic for the field

Proposal Resources: There are numerous proposal support avenues, the most obvious being the APA website. A valuable listing of their publications specifically dealing with the dissertation from start to finish can be found in their Education section under " Dissertations and Research " (link provided).    

Submitting: The proposal is typically submitted to the student's advisor(s); following their approval it is submitted to  department/governing committee for approval. The final "paper(s)" or dissertation is also submitted for final acceptance.

Defense: Dissertations are defended by the PhD candidate in a formal setting. Scholars in the field test the ability of the student to orally explain and defend their research findings. There are usually university-specific "norms" regarding the event and knowing what they are should be of utmost importance.

Funding : The time and research materials for the dissertation can run into the thousands of dollars. There are many ways to receive financial assistance; the APA is a good place to start. Their " Student Funding " page is helpful for finding grants, scholarships and the like. (link provided) They also have many advisory articles which offer real life examples of how others have managed the costs involved.

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Psychological inquiry: theory, methods and practice 1

Developmental and biological psychology

Psychopathology and clinical science

Psychological testing and ethics

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Unit Code: PSY4051

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This unit expands upon topics in psychological inquiry initially presented in the foundational psychology units. You will further develop your understanding of the different theoretical perspectives on research and how these relate to the research process. You will develop your knowledge and skill in using some of the most common methods of research and statistical analysis. Specific topics include; theories of knowledge and research, parametric and nonparametric procedures to compare two or more independent or matched samples; correlation and linear regression; planned and post hoc comparison techniques; power and sample size considerations; interpretation of output; experimental, quasi-experimental, and correlational research strategies; between- and within-subjects designs; and research ethics. There is a strong practical component to the unit, including authentic assessments and regular hands-on tutorial experiences, designed to advance your competency in applying a range of common research techniques and analyses.

Unit Code: PSY4131

Psychology is a scientific discipline which spans a diverse range of areas. This unit provides a continuation of two psychology topics that you will have learnt about in the foundational units. Developmental psychology encompasses physical, cognitive, and social-emotional changes across the life span and how these are shaped by macrosystems such as culture, and microsystems such as peers and the family. Biological psychology includes states of consciousness, mental disorders and addiction, mechanisms and disorders of learning and memory, and the regulation of emotional and motivated states. Unit activities provide further training in research techniques, report writing, oral presentations and teamwork.

Unit Code: PSY4032

This unit develops your understanding of how human behaviour is classified as ‘pathological’ through examination of the historical influences and the theory of the aetiology, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders. Adopting a biopsychosocial-cultural perspective across the lifespan, this unit will provide broad and comprehensive knowledge of both scientific and professional aspects of psychopathology.

Unit Code: PSY4041

Testing and assessment is a major component of psychological research and practice, which is why ‘Psychological testing and ethics’ teaches the underlying principles and processes of test development, administration and interpretation, as well as the ethical and legal responsibilities that underpin psychological research and practice. By investigating widely used psychological tests, critiquing various criteria including test reliability and validity, with a focus on theories of ability, and how our thinking about human abilities is influenced by our cultural framework. You will also learn how ethical principles apply to psychological research and practice by examining specific ethical dilemmas and case studies.

Unit Code: PSY4062

This unit will enhance your scientific aptitude and critical thinking abilities applicable to empirical research in psychology, and enhance your pragmatic problem-solving skills. In this unit, you will continue your training in psychological inquiry across three areas: theory, methods, and practice. In the theory component, you will learn about different theoretical perspectives on knowledge and research, including various quantitative and qualitative theories. In the methods component, you will develop your knowledge and ability to design complex research methodologies using both quantitative and qualitative methods.

In the practice component, you will undertake complex statistical analyses, such as parametric and nonparametric procedures that compare three or more variables, the use of planned and post hoc comparison techniques, as well as techniques that investigate relationships and predictions involving three or more variables. There are strong practical components incorporated into the unit designed to advance and showcase your competency in undertaking individual research. To bring together your knowledge and skills in research theory, methods, and practice, you will undertake a research project under the supervision of a staff member.

Unit Code: PSY4081

‘Perception and cognition’, divided in two interrelated halves, covers both perception and cognition. Following a cognitive psychology methodology, you will learn about the sensory processes involved in vision, audition and speech perception, sensory coding mechanisms and perceptual processing. The second half of the unit encompasses the acquisition, organisation, and retrieval of knowledge, with an emphasis on contemporary research techniques, cognitive architecture, attentional processes, models of learning and memory, mental imagery, language and higher-order thinking.

Unit Code: PSY4151

Investigate the history and philosophy of social psychology and personality, two fields that have radically altered our understanding of social identity, meaning and relationships. The first half of ‘Personality and social psychology’ will demonstrate how social psychology theories – such as behaviour in groups, aggression, attraction, dehumanisation and attitude change – are applied and critiqued in light of contemporary behaviour and new knowledge. In the second half of the unit, you will examine and compare distinct personality theories, including psychoanalytic, phenomenological, trait, and social learning approaches to personality.

Unit Code: PSY4140

‘Introduction to counselling’ is a broad overview of counselling psychology theory and practice, providing students the opportunity to contrast various perspective. You will learn about various counselling theories – evaluating how personal beliefs and values influence the counselling process – and build your awareness of the legal and ethical responsibilities that underpin counselling psychology.

Unit Code: PSY5011

Unit Code: PSY5013

Digital technologies are increasingly being used to support wellbeing and to detect, treat and manage mental health problems. These technologies include telehealth, apps, chatbots, robots and wearables. These technologies have the potential to provide suitable, evidence-based, accessible care to a wide range of individuals. However, these technologies also raise a number of concerns such as privacy, regulation and guidance.

In this unit you will:

(1) learn about existing digital mental health services and frameworks;

(2) synthesise information regarding the benefits and barriers of digital mental health technologies, and;

(3) evaluate the implementation of digital mental health services across diverse settings and populations.

Unit Code: PSY4180

In this elective unit you will develop your capacity to critically engage with contemporary issues, emerging trends and new directions in psychology. The unit will highlight the social, political, and cultural contexts that influence the discipline of psychology, as well as the contemporary challenges facing psychologists in both research and practice. Specific topics include: cutting edge developments in psychological treatment, challenges in psychological research, new directions in psychological theory and practice, and contemporary applications of psychology for individual, social, and environmental change. There is a focus on authentic assessment tasks designed to improve your critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and your ability to communicate effectively with key stakeholders in research, practice, and policy arenas.

Unit Code: PSY4405

‘Ethical and professional issues in psychology’ takes a conceptual approach – grounded in theories and definitions – to focus on the pragmatic issues of psychological practice from an ethical, legal and professional perspective. You will learn about a range of topics, including legislation governing psychologists, professional organisations, codes of professional conduct, and ethical issues raised by: conflicts of interest, children as clients, using psychological tests, and the provision of psychological services to a multi-cultural population, managing the suicidal client, reporting child abuse, and service delivery over the internet.

Unit Code: PSY4406

‘Psychological assessments and intervention’ provides students with a theoretical and practical overview of the assessment of individual difference, as a component of evidence-based practice. You will explore various classes of tests and classification tools – including a detailed examination of distinct models that measure ability and individual difference – and the role psychological assessment plays in evidence-based interventions for common clinical disorders. Another core focus of your study will be test evaluation methods, from a contemporary perspective that engages with recent trends in development theory, while covering the practicalities of test administration, scoring and interpretation.

Unit Code: PSY4407

The knowledge you gain studying psychology is relevant to a wide range of career pathways. ‘Psychology in industry: Pathways to employment’ will help you identify and enhance your employability skills, and provide a sense about the kinds of careers that are possible with a psychology qualification. You will familiarise yourself with the steps required to become a registered and licensed psychologist in Australia, and the various alternative career pathways available. The ways in which their knowledge and skills are relevant to other industries will also be explored.

Unit Code: PSY4401

Statistical analysis is a key part of psychological research design. The first stage of your psychological research project will give you the opportunity to conduct a review of univariate statistics, and serve as an introduction to the philosophy of research design and analysis. Everything you learn will be contextualised in terms of the unique challenges of psychological research, which influence the research approach and statistical technique. By understanding the issues that arise around the choice of appropriate statistical technique and data preparation, you will be able to interpret your findings in a critical way.

Unit Code: PSY4403

Methodology and data collection is a vital part of psychological research. For this component of your research project, you will produce a project methods section, based on the data you collect. Under supervision, you will complete the accumulation component of the research project, in which you will accumulate data by conducting experiments, surveys, interviews, focus groups, textual analyses, and database access. You will then synthesise this data, and this will form a core part of your GDPA research thesis.

Unit Code: PSY4404

In the results component of the GDPA research thesis, you will elaborate on and write up the results of your statistical and/or qualitative analyses of data. By doing this you will be able to answer your original research questions, and test your research hypotheses. The discussion component of the GDPA research thesis involves relating your research results and methods to the research thesis introduction, including the literature review and hypotheses/research questions. You will also discuss how your results have contributed to the knowledge of the research area.

Unit Code: PSY4409

‘21st century applications of psychology’ is a multidisciplinary unit that draws together distinct strands of psychological theory and practice. Divided across 6 modules, you will study psychology from the following perspectives: the mind/body and self (e.g. body modification, embodied cognition, the ‘selfies’ epidemic), family and relationships (e.g. step-families, same-sex families), society and culture (e.g. modern racism, psychological perspectives in terrorism, acculturation and integration within multicultural Australia), health, stress and coping (e.g. resilience, positive education, cross-cultural approaches to therapy), ePsychology (e.g. cyber-bullying, virtual reality, artificial intelligences), and psychology of work (e.g. flow, flourishing)

Unit Code: PSY4408

‘Perspectives in clinical and developmental neuroscience’ takes a lifespan approach to examine elements of neuroscience, developmental psychology, and mental health and illness, Your study will focus on aspects of mental health and illness that integrate traditional clinical information (e.g. symptoms, prevalence, aetiology), neuroscience (both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders), and evidence-based treatments. The topics you explore will relate to specific psychopathologies (e.g. posttraumatic stress disorder), specific life stages (e.g. childhood and adolescence), broad issues in mental health that transcend specific disorders (e.g. sleep, social support), and examine mental health in numerous settings (e.g. clinical, medical, and occupational).

Entry Requirements

Flexible study.

The course consists of nine core units and one elective unit. You must complete both foundational units (PSY4111 and PSY4122) before proceeding to the intermediate units (PSY4131 and PSY4051). Once both intermediate units are complete, you are able to progress onto the advanced level units. Students following the recommended study load of one unit per teaching period will be eligible to complete the course in 1.7 years (10 teaching periods).

Fast track your career

Students wishing to accelerate their studies may be eligible to complete in 1.2 years (7 teaching periods) subject to meeting eligibility requirements.

Pathway into further studies in Psychology

Students completing this course with at least a distinction (70%) average across all units (excluding any foundational units) will be guaranteed entry into the Monash Graduate Diploma of Psychology Advanced .

Need further clarification about our online course structure?

You can submit an enquiry directly to our student consultants by using the form listed on our contact us page . You’ll have the opportunity to schedule a call if you’d like to receive further information.

Please note that the indicated 20–24 hours study load is an estimate only, and extra hours should be considered for higher achievement.

Core units (54 credit points)

You must complete the following units.

Psychology foundations: The individual

Unit Code: PSY4111

Discover psychology’s historical origins as you build your understanding of psychology as a scientific discipline, and acquire the ability to conduct rigorous literature reviews. In ‘Psychology foundations: The individual’ you will learn how scientific research supports contemporary psychological theory and practice, exploring psychological theories related to learning, development, sensation and perception, personality, and the neurobiological basis of behaviour. There is a joint emphasis on the important role of cultural competency in understanding human behaviour, and you will learn to apply an Australian Indigenous lens to psychological research and practice.

Psychology foundations: The social self

Unit Code: PSY4122

‘Psychology foundations: The social self’ serves as an introduction to the scientific discipline of psychology, and provides foundational knowledge in key areas including theories of social behaviour, emotion and motivation, and the cognitive processes underlying human memory. You will learn about the psychological research methodology, using descriptive and inferential statistics to justify your research in the form of a formal research proposal. Weaved throughout the unit is an ongoing discussion of cross-cultural similarities and differences, and the potential pitfalls of applying mainstream understandings of psychology beyond the culture from which those insights were derived.

Elective unit (6 credit points)

You must complete one of the following units.

Foundations of mental health practice

Guided by a case study approach, you will follow the journey of people through their experience of mental health concerns and navigating health systems. You will further your understanding of how the mental health system works within Australia, the types of community-based organisations, services, and resources available to individuals experiencing a mental health issue, and the barriers that interfere with mental health promotion and recovery from an episode of illness. Using contemporary strengths based models, you will consider how to conceptualise mental health concerns from a multidisciplinary perspective, develop your skills in critical and reflective thinking, and support people towards living well.

Fitness for practice and professionalism

To complete your course, you are required to demonstrate that you meet fitness for practice expectations.

Fitness for practice is part of the assessment in all units in this course. If you don’t meet the fitness for practice expectations you will receive a fail mark for the unit and be required to repeat the unit before you can progress to the next year level of the course. In some circumstances, not meeting fitness for practice requirements can lead to exclusion from the course.

View details of the course’s Professional Standards, Ethical Behaviour and Student Support (ProFESS) framework.

An Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent).

A Monash University Graduate Certificate of Applied Mental Health with a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 60

English requirements

Applicants must meet the  English language requirements .

University entrance requirements

Minimum entrance requirements apply for admission to Monash University Australia.

Have questions about entry requirements or eligibility?   Book a call with a course consultant to discuss your options.

For the Graduate Diploma in Psychology, the estimated cost is $3,837.50 per unit. You may be eligible to receive a FEE-HELP  loan to cover part or all of your tuition. Fees are subject to change annually.

Scholarships

We offer over 360 types of scholarships, valued at up to $280,000. Some scholarships offer one-off payments while others continue for the length of your course.  Learn more about Monash Scholarships.

Looking for clarification on fee’s or scholarships?

Enquire with our  student consultants and schedule a call to get your questions answered.

Your Graduate Diploma of Psychology is designed to accommodate your busy life, with built-in flexibility through six teaching periods each year.

You’ll complete your world-renown qualification in a dynamic virtual classroom and access course material when and where it suits you, taking advantage of a dedicated support network available extended hours, seven days a week.

Study flexibly online

Undertake the same qualification as on-campus student, but 100% online. You’ll gain the skills required by the digital workforce and study in a way that suits your lifestyle.

Discover more about online study .

Support before, during and after your studies

When you study online with Monash, you’ll experience the same level of flexible support as your degree offers. Course consultants can answer your questions about online study and guide you through your course selection and enrolment. Student advisers are available seven days a week to assist with everything from enrolment queries to academic and study skills, with subject matters experts in each of your units to help you through unit content and assessments

Career outcomes

The workplace of the future is an exciting and dynamic place. A Graduate Diploma of Psychology degree is designed to equip you with the necessary skills to succeed in a constantly changing global environment.

What does the future look like for Clinical Psychologists ?

With exceptional industry growth and job satisfaction, Clinical Psychologists are sought-after and well-paid.

STAR RATING

INDUSTRY GROWTH

I really enjoyed it, from the engaging class discussions and the innovative course content to the mock counselling sessions.

Maria Teresa Pasa

Graduate Diploma in Psychology student

Learn from the change makers

The Graduate Diploma of Psychology from Monash is a  highly renowned psychology course and the most established course in Australia of its kind. Leveraging from cutting-edge research centres based at Monash, you will learn from global leaders while taking the first step to becoming a registered professional psychologist.

Your expert qualification is delivered around your schedule, under your own conditions to your own ambitious goals. Become an effective leader and thrive in the industry.

Meet your academic team

Dr michelle schilders.

Dr Michelle Schilders has a PhD in clinical and forensic psychology and has been a valuable part of the GDP team since 2014. She knows that engaged students become successful professionals and values creating learning environments that challenge and motivates them to reach their full potential.

Dr Heather Soo

Dr Heather Soo is a clinical and health psychologist with an interest in the psychological management of individuals with chronic illness. Her research focuses on how styles of thinking, particularly ruminative processes, influence adjustment and post-traumatic growth in diabetes and cancer.

Farid studied philosophy, psychology, and mathematics in his undergraduate degrees at Monash University and has completed his PhD in moral psychology, focusing on moral judgement and moral decision-making. He has previously been a senior instructor in the GDP across five years and is now one of the Assistant Coordinators.

FAQs with Dr Tony Mowbray

Dr Tony Mowbray, Course Convenor of the Graduate Diploma in Psychology

A Graduate Diploma in Psychology from a world-class university is the door-opener to an opportunity that will enrich your life, career and empower you to become an effective leader.

Watch Dr Tony Mowbray answer some common questions about studying Monash’s online Graduate Diploma in Psychology.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take me to complete the graduate diploma in psychology, does the graduate diploma in psychology run live sessions, are placements a part of the graduate diploma in psychology, does the graduate diploma in psychology include any units with a focus on statistics, explore the world of psychology.

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