best child psychology phd programs

College of Education and Human Development

Institute of Child Development

Doctoral programs

Our developmental psychology PhD program is world-renowned and consistently ranked as the #1 developmental psychology graduate program in the nation. We offer two tracks tailored to your interests and you’ll be part of a community that will support your development as an academic and researcher.

Developmental psychology Developmental psychology

Blend research and clinical practice. Study with award-winning faculty at the #1 ranked developmental psychology graduate program in the nation.

Best Developmental Psychology Programs

Ranked in 2022, part of Best Social Sciences and Humanities Schools

Developmental psychology students

Developmental psychology students observe the broad span of human development, from infancy to old age. Key concepts include the nature versus nurture debate and identity formation. These are the top psychology programs for developmental psychology. Read the methodology »

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Doctor of Developmental and Child Psychology Programs in America

1-23 of 23 results

School of Arts & Sciences - University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA •

University of Pennsylvania •

Graduate School

University of Pennsylvania ,

Graduate School ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

Cornell University College of Human Ecology

Ithaca, NY •

Cornell University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: Again I’ve only just enrolled so I can’t say much but in my program I’ve noticed a wide breadth of classes available with professional placement after completing my program. I appreciate the classes that are a mix of practical and also theoretical. ... Read 2 reviews

Cornell University ,

ITHACA, NY ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Again I’ve only just enrolled so I can’t say much but in my program I’ve noticed a wide breadth of classes available with professional placement after completing my program. I appreciate the classes... .

Read 2 reviews.

Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development

New York, NY •

New York University •

• • Rating 4.27 out of 5   26 reviews

Master's Student: So far I’m almost a year into NYU Steinhardt’s online speech program and I love it! For those who don’t mind online learning and can time manage, this is for you. It gives me more flexibility and encourages me to stay on top of asynchronous work for my zoom meets. Another big plus about this program and why I chose it is that I did not graduate with a bachelor’s in speech or CSD. This program offers most prerequisite classes that extend your plan of study but is so worth it. The only down side is the prerequisites required by ASHA cannot be taken through their program. So while I have taken statistics, a biological and behavioral /social science during my undergrad I will need to take a physical science outside of the program before I start my clinic/practicums. Overall, many of my peers seem to enjoy the program too and even though the program is online for me, the helpfulness and acceptance from professors is truly unmatched. ... Read 26 reviews

New York University ,

NEW YORK, NY ,

26 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says So far I’m almost a year into NYU Steinhardt’s online speech program and I love it! For those who don’t mind online learning and can time manage, this is for you. It gives me more flexibility and... .

Read 26 reviews.

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• Doctor of Social Psychology Programs
• Doctor of Cognitive Science Programs

Lynch School of Education

Chestnut Hill, MA •

Boston College •

• • Rating 4.25 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: I am preparing to start my studies in this program. As of now, all staff has made this process extremely stress free and easy. My classes have been planned out for my entire time in the program. This is helpful in knowing what is to coming and planning for the future. My advisor has done an exceptional job of working with me to ensure I am taking the correct classes in conjunction to feel prepared for my MTELS. I am looking forward to all there is to come in this program. ... Read 4 reviews

Boston College ,

CHESTNUT HILL, MA ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am preparing to start my studies in this program. As of now, all staff has made this process extremely stress free and easy. My classes have been planned out for my entire time in the program. This... .

Read 4 reviews.

College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering - University of Rochester

Rochester, NY •

University of Rochester •

Alum: The Optics program is the toughest offered at the school. Optics grads do twice as much (60 credit hours instead of 30) class work as other degrees. You learn a ton! The field is so diverse you can pick and choose what subfields to focus on, and all fields are offered. Amazing professors. In all my classes, I felt one professor was bad at teaching. All the others were very competent, and the best were extremely passionate about their class/field of research. ... Read 2 reviews

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University of Rochester ,

ROCHESTER, NY ,

Featured Review: Alum says The Optics program is the toughest offered at the school. Optics grads do twice as much (60 credit hours instead of 30) class work as other degrees. You learn a ton! The field is so diverse you can... .

College of Education and Human Development - University of Minnesota Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN •

University of Minnesota Twin Cities •

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Alum: This is a well-known school for education. They are on top of the latest research and development in the field and share this knowledge with their students. The school has its own lab school for early childhood development where students are able to observe child behavior, learn hands-on how to connect and make meaningful relationships with children, and how to conduct basic research. ... Read 3 reviews

University of Minnesota Twin Cities ,

MINNEAPOLIS, MN ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says This is a well-known school for education. They are on top of the latest research and development in the field and share this knowledge with their students. The school has its own lab school for... .

Read 3 reviews.

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University of Connecticut College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Storrs, CT •

University of Connecticut •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Graduate Student: The University of Connecticut is a very supportive, diverse, academically enriching place for education growth. I have learned a great deal from the very knowledgeable and helpful professors and staff on the West Hartford campus. I think that the campus has a lot to offer with extra curricular activities and involvements and UCONN does a great job of trying to get students involved outside of the classroom. I would highly recommend this campus and the Master's of Social Work program to anyone interested. The parking is convenient, the campus is small, and the environment is personable. I am honored the opportunity to pursue my masters degree at this prestigious university. ... Read 1 review

University of Connecticut ,

STORRS, CT ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says The University of Connecticut is a very supportive, diverse, academically enriching place for education growth. I have learned a great deal from the very knowledgeable and helpful professors and... .

Read 1 reviews.

Graduate School of Professional Psychology - University of Denver

Denver, CO •

University of Denver •

• • Rating 1 out of 5   1 review

University of Denver ,

DENVER, CO ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 1 stars.

KU School of Education

Lawrence, KS •

The University of Kansas •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   4 reviews

Other: I will be going to the University of Kansas for the school of education and human sciences in the Fall of 2024. ... Read 4 reviews

The University of Kansas ,

LAWRENCE, KS ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I will be going to the University of Kansas for the school of education and human sciences in the Fall of 2024. .

College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences - University of Houston

Houston, TX •

University of Houston •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   3 reviews

Current Master's student: The academic program is rather good at the University of Houston. I have three social work classes and they are robust and full of great information. The choices of classes at UH is very good and allows students to follow their academic path and find classes that fit their program. The advisors at UH are on top of things and are always able and willing to help. I would honestly say that UH is a great place for academics! ... Read 3 reviews

University of Houston ,

HOUSTON, TX ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The academic program is rather good at the University of Houston. I have three social work classes and they are robust and full of great information. The choices of classes at UH is very good and... .

Loyola University Chicago College of Arts and Sciences

Chicago, IL •

Loyola University Chicago •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Graduate Student: Loyola was such a great place to earn my M.Ed Higher Education degree. The faculty were so dedicated to our development and success. The two campuses were my homes away from home, and the staff were always a pleasure to work with. I miss my Loyola days for sure!!! ... Read 1 review

Loyola University Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Loyola was such a great place to earn my M.Ed Higher Education degree. The faculty were so dedicated to our development and success. The two campuses were my homes away from home, and the staff... .

Fordham University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Bronx, NY •

Fordham University •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Niche User: Academics program at Fordham are not that much compatible as it seems the content is out dated and most of the time it is theoretical. ... Read 2 reviews

Fordham University ,

BRONX, NY ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Niche User says Academics program at Fordham are not that much compatible as it seems the content is out dated and most of the time it is theoretical. .

• Online industrial and Organizational Psychology Programs
• Doctor of Behavioral Sciences Programs

College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences - University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Baltimore, MD •

University of Maryland, Baltimore County •

University of Maryland, Baltimore County ,

BALTIMORE, MD ,

College of Science and Mathematics - North Dakota State University

Fargo, ND •

North Dakota State University •

North Dakota State University ,

FARGO, ND ,

College of Liberal Arts - University of Massachusetts Boston

Boston, MA •

University of Massachusetts Boston •

University of Massachusetts Boston ,

BOSTON, MA ,

Pace University College of Health Professions

Pace University •

Master's Student: I will be starting the Family Nurse Practitioner program this Fall 2023. So far I have taken Orientation and other introduction courses. I must say all content is designed to prepare you to succeed. ... Read 4 reviews

Pace University ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says I will be starting the Family Nurse Practitioner program this Fall 2023. So far I have taken Orientation and other introduction courses. I must say all content is designed to prepare you to succeed. .

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - St. John's University - New York

Queens, NY •

St. John's University - New York •

St. John's University - New York ,

QUEENS, NY ,

Capella University

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   974 reviews

Doctoral Student: Capella University offers comprehensive online programs for adult learners, focusing on academic excellence and practical skills. The university's flexible learning environment enables students to juggle their studies with work and family obligations. Students are prepared by the university's emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications. The faculty is supportive and responsive, and Capella's innovative use of technology provides an interactive learning experience. As a leader in online education, I believe it's an excellent choice for those balancing education with their lifestyle. I started at Capella University when I decided to further my education and change my field from pharmacy technician to healthcare administrator. I finished my bachelor's and master's of healthcare administration from Capella University. I am so happy with my achievements and would like to pursue my doctoral degree in healthcare administration to advance in my job. ... Read 974 reviews

974 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Capella University offers comprehensive online programs for adult learners, focusing on academic excellence and practical skills. The university's flexible learning environment enables students to... .

Read 974 reviews.

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences - Walden University

Walden University •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   42 reviews

Other: I attended Walden University as a post master's student to fulfill additional courses for mental health licensing. My experience with Walden was very positive. From interest, enrollment advising, and registration it was a seamless process. I was able to take several classes I needed at reasonable costs. The course of study was challenging and exactly what I needed to further my career. ... Read 42 reviews

Walden University ,

42 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I attended Walden University as a post master's student to fulfill additional courses for mental health licensing. My experience with Walden was very positive. From interest, enrollment advising, and... .

Read 42 reviews.

Columbia University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Columbia University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: It was a really great and flexible program that allowed me to explore my own interests without the restricting requirements getting in my way too much. Honestly a great major ... Read 3 reviews

Columbia University ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says It was a really great and flexible program that allowed me to explore my own interests without the restricting requirements getting in my way too much. Honestly a great major .

Teachers College at Columbia University

• • Rating 4.48 out of 5   100 reviews

Master's Student: Regarding my academic experience, I have been deeply engaged in my field, exploring various facets of education, both through rigorous coursework and hands-on research projects. Throughout my academic journey, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed professors, delve into thought-provoking discussions with peers, and immerse myself in cutting-edge research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge in my field. As for my program, it offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing students like me to tackle real-world challenges with confidence and expertise. The program fosters a dynamic learning environment where intellectual curiosity is encouraged, and innovative thinking is celebrated. Additionally, the program provides ample opportunities for professional development, networking, and experiential learning, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for success in their careers. ... Read 100 reviews

100 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Regarding my academic experience, I have been deeply engaged in my field, exploring various facets of education, both through rigorous coursework and hands-on research projects. Throughout my... As for my program, it offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing students like me to tackle real-world challenges with confidence... .

Read 100 reviews.

The CUNY School of Professional Studies

CUNY Graduate School & University Center •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   18 reviews

Master's Student: This program is notable for its rigorous curriculum and practical application of data science. It combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application, preparing students to face complex data challenges. Participating in hands-on projects with a tangible impact has been one of my most memorable experiences (machine learning to predict urban traffic patterns, demonstrating the power of data science to influence public policy). The faculty's commitment has provided me with invaluable mentorship, guiding me through the program's rigorous demands. However, the journey has not been without challenges. The coursework's intensity necessitated a steep learning curve, as well as changes in my study habits and time management strategies. While the program provides a solid foundation in data science, expanding its industry connections could provide students with more opportunities to participate in real-world projects and internships, enriching their academic experience. ... Read 18 reviews

CUNY Graduate School & University Center ,

18 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says This program is notable for its rigorous curriculum and practical application of data science. It combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application, preparing students to face complex data... .

Read 18 reviews.

College of Agriculture and Human Sciences - Prairie View A & M University

Prairie View, TX •

Prairie View A & M University •

Prairie View A & M University ,

PRAIRIE VIEW, TX ,

Showing results 1 through 23 of 23

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2024 Best Child Development & Psychology Doctor's Degree Schools

In 2024, College Factual analyzed 85 schools in order to identify the top ones for its Best Child Development & Psychology Doctor's Degree Schools ranking. Combined, these schools handed out 726 doctor's degrees in child development & psychology to qualified students.

What's on this page: * Our Methodology

• Best Doctor’s Degree Schools List

Choosing a Great Child Development & Psychology School for Your Doctor's Degree

Quality Overall Is Important

A school that excels in educating for a particular major and degree level must be a great school overall as well. To take this into account we consider a school's overall Best Colleges for a Doctor's Degree ranking which itself looks at a collection of different factors like degree completion, educational resources, student body caliber and post-graduation earnings for the school as a whole.

Average Earnings

To determine the overall quality of a graduate school, one factor we look at is the average early-career salary of those receiving their doctor's degree from the school. After all, your doctor's degree won't mean much if it doesn't help you find a job that will help you earn a living.

Other Factors We Consider

The metrics below are just some of the other metrics that we use to determine our rankings.

• Major Focus - How many resources a school devotes to child development & psychology students as compared to other majors.
• Major Demand - How many other child development & psychology students want to attend this school to pursue a doctor's degree.
• Educational Resources - How many resources are allocated to students. These resources may include educational expenditures per student, number of students per instructor, and graduation rate among other things.
• Student Debt - How much debt child development & psychology students go into to obtain their doctor's degree and how well they are able to pay back that debt.
• Accreditation - Whether a school is regionally accredited and/or accredited by a recognized child development & psychology related body.

Our full ranking methodology documents in more detail how we consider these factors to identify the best colleges for child development & psychology students working on their doctor's degree.

More Ways to Rank Child Development & Psychology Schools

Since picking the right college can be one of the most important decisions of your life, we've developed the Best Child Development & Psychology Doctor's Degree Schools ranking, along with many other major-related rankings , to help you make that decision.

Best Schools for Doctorate Students to Study Child Development & Psychology in the United States

The following list ranks the best colleges and universities for pursuing a doctor's degree in child development & psychology. Only those schools that rank in the top 15% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.

13 Top Schools for a Doctorate in Child Development

Washington University in St Louis is a great decision for individuals pursuing a doctor's degree in child development & psychology. WUSTL is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the suburb of Saint Louis. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from Washington University in St Louis

It's difficult to beat University of Pennsylvania if you want to pursue a doctor's degree in child development & psychology. UPenn is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Philadelphia. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from University of Pennsylvania

Every student who is interested in a doctor's degree in child development & psychology needs to take a look at Harvard University. Located in the midsize city of Cambridge, Harvard is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from Harvard University

University of Notre Dame is a great decision for students pursuing a doctor's degree in child development & psychology. Notre Dame is a large private not-for-profit university located in the large suburb of Notre Dame. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from University of Notre Dame

Located in the city of Princeton, Princeton is a private not-for-profit university with a moderately-sized student population. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from Princeton University

Columbia is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of New York. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from Columbia University in the City of New York

UChicago is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the large city of Chicago. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from University of Chicago

Located in the medium-sized city of Ann Arbor, U-M is a public university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Brown is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Providence. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from Brown University

Located in the city of Ithaca, Cornell is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from Cornell University

UMN Twin Cities is a fairly large public university located in the city of Minneapolis. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Located in the city of Los Angeles, USC is a private not-for-profit university with a very large student population. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from University of Southern California

Located in the large city of Nashville, Vanderbilt is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. More information about a doctorate in child development & psychology from Vanderbilt University

Related Programs

Learn about other programs related to Child Development & Psychology that might interest you.

General Psychology (I Have a Masters)

Honorable Mentions

These are some additional schools worth mentioning that are also great but just didn't quite make the cut to earn our top Best Child Development & Psychology Doctor's Degree Schools award.

Child Development & Psychology by Region

View the Best Child Development & Psychology Doctor's Degree Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Best associate degrees in child development & psychology, best master's degrees in child development & psychology, best value in child development & psychology, best for non-traditional students in child development & psychology, best online in child development & psychology, most popular online in child development & psychology, best bachelor's degrees in child development & psychology, best overall in child development & psychology, highest paid grads in child development & psychology, best for veterans in child development & psychology, most popular in child development & psychology, most focused in child development & psychology.

View All Rankings >

Child Development & Psychology Related Rankings by Major

One of 24 majors within the Psychology area of study, Child Development & Psychology has other similar majors worth exploring.

Child Development Focus Areas

Most popular majors related to child development, notes and references.

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ). More about our data sources and methodologies .

Popular Reports

Compare your school options.

100 Best colleges for Child Psychology in the United States

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in the United States ranked based on their research performance in Child Psychology. A graph of 38.8M citations received by 998K academic papers made by 910 universities in the United States was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Harvard University

For Child Psychology

2. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

3. University of California - Los Angeles

4. University of Washington - Seattle

5. Yale University

6. Pennsylvania State University

7. Columbia University

8. Stanford University

9. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

10. University of Pittsburgh

11. University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

12. Johns Hopkins University

13. University of Wisconsin - Madison

14. Ohio State University

15. University of Pennsylvania

16. University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

17. University of Texas at Austin

18. Arizona State University - Tempe

19. University of Chicago

20. Cornell University

21. University of California - Davis

22. University of California-San Diego

23. University of California - Berkeley

24. New York University

25. Emory University

26. Michigan State University

27. University of Iowa

28. University of Virginia

29. University of Southern California

30. University of Florida

31. Vanderbilt University

32. Rutgers University - New Brunswick

33. University of Maryland - College Park

34. University of California - San Francisco

35. Boston University

36. Duke University

37. Florida State University

38. University of Arizona

39. Washington University in St Louis

40. University of Kansas

41. University of Missouri - Columbia

42. University of Illinois at Chicago

43. Northwestern University

44. University of Rochester

45. University of Utah

46. University of Miami

47. University of Georgia

48. Iowa State University

49. University of Kentucky

50. University of South Florida

51. University of Connecticut

52. Case Western Reserve University

53. Temple University

54. University of Oregon

55. Texas A&M University - College Station

56. University at Buffalo

57. University of California - Irvine

58. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

59. Carnegie Mellon University

60. Brown University

61. Stony Brook University

62. Purdue University

63. Georgia State University

64. University of South Carolina - Columbia

65. Providence College

66. University of Nebraska - Lincoln

67. Wayne State University

68. University of Delaware

69. Virginia Commonwealth University

70. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

71. Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

72. University of Colorado Boulder

73. University of Memphis

74. Baylor College of Medicine

75. University of California - Santa Barbara

76. Brigham Young University - Provo

77. Tufts University

78. University of Cincinnati

79. SUNY at Albany

80. Indiana University - Purdue University - Indianapolis

81. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

82. San Diego State University

83. University of Massachusetts - Amherst

84. Princeton University

85. University of Tennessee - Knoxville

86. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

87. University of Alabama

88. University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

89. University of Houston

90. Kent State University at Kent

91. George Mason University

92. West Virginia University

93. University of California - Riverside

94. University of Vermont

95. University of Alabama at Birmingham

96. Indiana University - Bloomington

97. University of Maryland, Baltimore

98. Bowling Green State University

99. Syracuse University

100. Boston College

The best cities to study Child Psychology in the United States based on the number of universities and their ranks are Cambridge , Ann Arbor , Los Angeles , and Seattle .

Psychology subfields in the United States

Home / Discover Psychology Degrees / Online Child Psychology Programs / Best Ph.D. and PsyD in Child Psychology Degree Programs

Best Ph.D. and PsyD in Child Psychology Degree Programs

2024 - best doctorate degree in child psychology programs, what will i learn in an online child psychology doctorate program, admissions requirements for a doctorate in child psychology, list of child psychology doctorate degree programs.

A doctorate degree in child psychology provides a comprehensive and in-depth study of child development, behavior, and mental health. This is the most advanced academic degree program in the field.

Once completed with the extensive study, you'll be qualified for a range of high-level careers within child psychology . Students who graduate work as cold psychologists, school psychologists, child advocates, caseworkers, behavior therapists, early childhood educators, policymakers, researchers, and in other fields.

You can expect to support children facing a variety of challenges. They may work with children who are struggling with mental health issues, emotional difficulties, social anxiety, developmental disabilities, or other challenges. With a doctorate, you may be working one-on-one with children, or you might have a more administrative role.

Many online doctorate programs in child psychology exist, though they are not as common as traditional programs. Learn more about these programs and how to complete your doctorate degree in child psychology online by reading the sections below.

CounselingPsychology.org ranks Doctoral Degrees in Child Psychology based on factors such as the completion rate of the program, affordability and cost of living, competitiveness of the institution, and the diversity and breadth of courses offered. We also take into account the years of faculty experience, to ensure that students receive the best education possible. Click here to learn more about our methodology.

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University is a private, nonprofit university located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The university is home to over 20,000 students and offers over 175 different degree programs, including a Doctorate Degree in Child Psychology. NSU is one of the largest independent universities in the United States.

University of Miami

The University of Miami is a private university located in Coral Gables, Florida. It has over 16,000 students and offers a Doctorate Degree in Child Psychology. With its diverse and vibrant campus life, the University of Miami provides a top-notch education that is sure to prepare students for success.

The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a comprehensive Child Psychology program, with both PhD and PsyD options. The Department of Psychology, located on the Tuscaloosa campus, provides students with a strong foundation in developmental, cognitive, and social psychology, as well as hands-on experience through research and clinical practicum opportunities. Graduates of this program are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the field of child psychology.

Doctorate degrees involve extensive study of their subject matter, either from a research-focused or a clinically focused perspective.

The more research-centric degree is a doctor of philosophy or Ph.D. This type of program typically involves two years of classes and another two to four years of research and writing. There's a practical component as well, but it's not as long as the Psy.D. degrees. The total time for a Ph.D. program is usually four to six years following a master’s degree program.

The more clinically centric degree is a doctor of psychology or Psy.D. The program involves some research and writing, but it’s much heavier on classroom work and practical work. The practicum of a Psy.D. degree is often 1,500 hours of supervised work. In most cases, these degrees can be completed in three years.

Regardless of which degree you choose, both will have certain common classes. Some online classes you might take are:

• Child Development
• Abnormal Child Psychology
• Child Assessment and Evaluation
• Child Mental Health
• Developmental Disabilities
• Child and Family Therapy
• Ethical and Legal Issues in Child Psychology

Child psychology doctorate programs can be highly competitive, and many schools look for students who exceed their minimum requirements. Moreover, the minimum requirements can vary from one school to another.

In general, you should expect to supply the following items when applying for one of these programs:

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology or any other field
• Master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field (not always required)
• GPA that meets the program's minimum requirement (usually ~3.5)
• Scores from the Graduate Record Examination ( GRE )
• Letters of recommendation from academics and professionals
• Personal essay outlining the reason for applying to a program
• CV listing academic and professional accomplishments related to the field
• Interview with a faculty member or director of the school's program
• Application fee (usually fairly small compared to tuition)

More competitive programs might want you to have a graduate certificate, additional master's degree, extensive professional experience, or other additional qualifications.

Find an online or campus-based doctorate degree program in psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Jump to Your State Listings

• Clinical Child Psychology Subarea Campus

Florida International University

• PhD in Psychology: Clinical Science in Child and Adolescent Psychology Campus
• Child, Adolescent & Family Psychology Concentration Campus

University of Florida

• Clinical Child/ Pediatric Psychology Campus
• Child/Family Clinical Psychology Campus
• Pediatric Health Psychology Campus

Yeshiva University

• Doctor of Psychology in School-Clinical Child Psychology Campus

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Psychology Doctoral Degree Programs 2023

Psychology.org Staff

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Updated July 11, 2023

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Prospective students face significant decisions when selecting the best psychology doctoral program. Cost, financial aid resources, staff-to-student ratio, admission requirements, and accreditation all contribute to a prospective student's considerations. Hybrid or online degree options and practical requirements can also be deciding factors when choosing a psychology doctoral program.

This guide explores what to expect from the best psychology doctoral degree programs, including what to look for in the top programs, practical experience requirements, and frequently asked questions about the degree options.

Featured Online Programs

What to look for in a psychology doctoral degree programs.

Students should pay close attention to the admissions process for psychology doctoral programs. Application requirements and staff-to-student ratios comprise key program considerations, as does program accreditation .

The accreditation process establishes a program's standard of quality. The American Psychological Association (APA) plays an important role in doctoral program accreditation. The APA's Commission on Accreditation certifies doctorate degrees and internships.

As college tuition and other costs, such as textbooks, continue to increase, prospective students should assess their finances and explore options for educational funding. Begin financial aid research early in the application process, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and search for scholarships.

Hybrid and Online Options

Hybrid courses refer to those that meet both online and on campus. This mixture of online and in-person learning provides the flexibility needed to balance extracurricular responsibilities while still participating in valuable networking and socializing opportunities.

Currently, there are no entirely online, fully accredited doctorate programs in psychology, as the Commission on Accreditation through the APA does not provide accreditation for strictly online doctoral degree programs. However, certain accredited doctoral programs provide many of their courses online.

Practical Experience Requirements

At the doctoral level, students typically complete specific practical experiences , including practicums and internships. These requirements provide professional interactions with patients through fieldwork.

A practicum involves the observation of a licensed psychologist in action with patients, whereas an internship allows for direct client interaction without immediate supervision.

Practicums and internships allow students to empirically apply learned psychological theories and classroom knowledge to actual patients in clinical settings. These experiences enable students to develop practical skills, including establishing patient rapport and trust, gaining valuable training and feedback, and working within diverse clinical environments.

Students are expected to manage these opportunities. However, schools may assist in locating practicums and internships, offering resources like on-campus job fairs, career counseling, or networking events.

Psychology Doctoral Programs

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CUNY Graduate School and University Center

• New York, NY
• Online + Campus

Degree-seekers interested in a wide variety of degree specializations can enroll in CUNY Graduate School and University Center's Ph.D. program in psychology. CUNY offers ten training areas within psychology, including basic and applied social psychology; behavioral and cognitive neuroscience; environmental psychology; and industrial-organizational psychology. 

Each program requires between 60-90 credits of coursework, a first and second examination, and a dissertation.

Applicants need to submit an online application, which admits students during the fall semester. Applicants are only admitted on a full-time basis. They must submit a curriculum vitae and choose one training area in which to apply.

Brigham Young University

Degree-seekers interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology can enroll in one of Brigham Young University's programs. BYU offers a clinical psychology program in clinical training and research and a non-clinical psychology Ph.D. program that focuses on research.  

Typically, the clinical program takes about five years to complete, and the psychology program takes about four years to finish. The clinical program is accredited by the American Psychological Association. It offers majors in clinical child, adolescent, and family psychology; clinical neuropsychology; or clinical health psychology. The psychology program offers specialization in applied social psychology, cognitive and behavioral neurosciences, and developmental psychology. 

Applicants need either a bachelor's or master's degree to apply, along with a GRE score. BYU requires an online application and typically admits students with an average GPA of 3.78. 

Case Western Reserve University

• Cleveland, OH

Degree-seekers who want to earn a Ph.D. in clinical psychology can apply to Case Western Reserve University's program. CWRU's APA-accredited program offers several different specializations, including adult, child and family, and pediatric. These tracks prepare students for conducting research, teaching, and providing treatment. 

Each Ph.D. program track typically takes around six years to complete, which includes an internship. Coursework includes advanced psychotherapy, clinical interviewing, and advanced psychopathology, and is usually completed alongside research experience and specialized electives. 

Applicants need to submit an online application, a personal statement, a curriculum vitae, unofficial transcripts, and the email addresses of three references.

Boston University

Degree-seekers who want to earn a Ph.D. in psychology can apply to the doctoral program at Boston University. BU offers several specialties for Ph.D. students, including brain, behavior, and cognition; developmental science; and clinical. 

The brain, behavior, and cognition and the developmental science programs contain 64 credits, while the clinical program requires 80 credits. Students in each track must complete two courses in statistics in psychology. Students must earn Ph.D. degrees within seven years of entering the program, with exceptions for an authorized leave of absence. 

Applicants need an undergraduate degree in psychology, neuroscience, or related field. BU requires an online application, transcripts, three academic letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a curriculum vitae. 

Carnegie Mellon University

• Pittsburgh, PA

Individuals interested in a Ph.D. in psychology can apply to Carnegie Mellon University's program. CMU offers training in cognitive, developmental, social/personality, and health psychology. The Ph.D. program helps prepare students for university-level teaching positions and ethical and responsible research. 

Students typically take around five years to complete the Ph.D. program. Years 1-3 focus on coursework, research projects, and a teaching practicum. The final two years revolve around dissertation research and defense. 

Candidates must submit an online application, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. GRE scores are not required. Admissions staff will consider common research interests over candidates' academic backgrounds. 

Claremont Graduate University

• Claremont, CA

Students interested in a Ph.D. in psychology that prepares learners for careers in academia or leadership can apply to Claremont Graduate University (CGU). CGU offers a wide variety of study areas, including applied cognitive psychology, applied social psychology, evaluation and applied research methods, and organizational behavior.. 

This 72-credit curriculum, which students can complete within seven years, includes required courses such as research methods, statistics, and methodology. Students must maintain a B- average or higher and involvement in a research project each semester. 

Candidates need to submit an online application, official transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. 

Bowling Green State University-Main Campus

• Bowling Green, OH

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology can enroll in one of four programs at Bowling Green State University. BGSU's research-oriented programs include specialties in clinical, developmental, industrial-organizational (I-O), and neutral and cognitive sciences. 

Accredited by the American Psychological Association, the clinical track typically takes about four years to complete. During the last two years, students may choose to specialize in clinical care psychology, behavioral medicine, or community psychology.

Applicants need an undergraduate background in psychology and a GRE score for the I-O and developmental programs. Requirements for all Ph.D. programs include a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a resume.

Brown University

• Providence, RI

Students seeking a Ph.D. in psychology can apply to the program at Brown University. The program is offered by Brown's department of cognitive science, linguistics, and psychology, which allows learners to study the brain, language, and behavior for future research or teaching positions.

Brown's Ph.D. programs typically take around five years to complete. The first year includes a research project that can involve experimental research or experimental linguistics. The second and third years include core, quantitative, and specialization courses. The remaining semesters focus on teaching assistantships, dissertation proposals, and dissertation and oral presentation. 

Candidates need to submit an online application, along with a writing sample and personal statement. 

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Students who want to earn a Ph.D. in psychology have six specializations to choose from at Arizona State University. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ASU's Tempe campus offers Ph.D. degree programs concentrating on behavioral neuroscience and comparative psychology, clinical psychology, cognitive science, developmental psychology, quantitative research methods, and social psychology. 

The 84-credit program includes core courses, electives, research, and dissertation. Notable courses include cognitive processes, adolescence and emerging adulthood, and bilingualism. 

Applicants must possess a psychology-related bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited school with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. ASU requires official transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume, GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, and proof of fluency in English. 

Clark University

• Worcester, MA

Students who want to pursue a Ph.D. in psychology can enroll in one of the psychology doctoral programs at Clark University. CU offers specialties in developmental psychology, social psychology, and the APA-accredited clinical psychology area. 

Sixteen courses fulfill the Ph.D. requirements at this research university, including one semester of problem, theory, and method, and two consecutive semesters of statistical methods. CU boasts small program sizes, allowing students to maintain closer relationships with faculty and fellow learners. 

Applicants need to submit an online application, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and unofficial transcripts. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How many years is a doctorate degree in psychology.

A doctorate degree in psychology typically takes anywhere between four and eight years beyond the master's degree to complete.

What can you do with a doctorate in psychology?

A doctorate in psychology prepares students for conducting research, teaching at the collegiate level, practicing as a licensed psychologist, and consulting for businesses or groups.

What's the difference between a Ph.D. and a Psy.D.?

Ph.D. programs train students for careers in research and academia, whereas a Psy.D. program aims to prepare students for applying practical skills within clinical settings.

Is a Ph.D. in psychology worth it?

Depending on personal goals, a Ph.D. in psychology can be well worth the time and dedication required to finish the coursework, practicum, or internship.

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Child Psychology Degree and Career Guide

• Author: Audrey Stoffle
• Expert Reviewer: Jonathan Adams, PhD
• Editorial Process

Child psychology is a specialty that applies research and scientific knowledge to the care of young adults, children, toddlers, and infants. Child psychologists have specialized knowledge of child development, the unique psychological needs of children, and the social contexts that contribute to the mental and emotional well-being of children. The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes clinical child and adolescent psychology as a specialty for professional psychologists. Child psychologists should not be confused with developmental psychologists, who often lead research studies on children’s behaviors and emotions.

To become a clinical child psychologist, individuals typically earn an undergraduate degree in psychology before specializing in child psychology in graduate school. Practitioners may have a master’s degree , an Educational Specialist (EdS) degree, a Doctor of Education (EdD), a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) , or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) . A doctoral-level degree is required to become a licensed clinical child psychologist in all states, as is an internship and postdoctoral practical experience supervised by an experienced professional. Certified child psychologists can work in children’s hospitals, mental health institutions, juvenile correctional systems, schools, research settings, and private practice.

Quick Facts

• There are 80 not-for-profit colleges and universities with clinical child psychology or developmental and child psychology programs. 1
• 4 schools offer a certificate in child psychology. 1
• 1 school offers an associate degree in child psychology. 1
• 32 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in child psychology. 1
• 50 schools offer a master’s or advanced degree in child psychology. 1

Table of Contents

Degree Requirements and Coursework

Acceptance into a master’s degree program in child psychology typically requires a background in psychology and a bachelor’s degree in any field. Some doctoral programs require a master’s degree in psychology, but many accept students with an undergraduate degree in psychology only. These programs also typically require a minimum GPA of 3.0. Many programs also consider personal recommendations, coursework, and practical experience. Because child psychology is a specialty within psychology, further specializations (or concentrations, specialties, or emphases) are not typically offered. Some programs also require GRE scores.

Graduate programs in child psychology typically focus on cognitive development, the development of language and learning, social development, neuroscience, and the psychobiology of development. A full-time master’s program takes one to three years to complete, while a doctoral program takes between four and six years of full-time study. Graduate students also focus on both research and/or clinical practice. Examples of possible courses include:

• Adolescent and Young Adult Development
• Child Development
• Design and Analysis for Developmental Research
• Multicultural and Diversity Issues in Psychology
• Professional Issues in Clinical Child Psychology
• Psychology and the Legal System
• Psychopathology in Children
• Psychotherapy with Families
• Social and Emotional Assessment

Top-Ranked Child Psychology Degree Programs

Us news & world report’s best doctoral developmental psychology programs 2022.

• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (#1)
• University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (#2)
• University of California-Berkeley (#3)
• Harvard University (#4 tie)
• Stanford University (#4 tie)
• University of California-Los Angeles (#6 tie)
• University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign (#6 tie)
• University of Wisconsin-Madison (#8)
• University of California-Davis (#9) 2

Best Value Schools With On-Campus Clinical Child Psychology Programs

The table below represents the best-value colleges and universities that offer on-campus, graduate-level clinical child psychology programs. We researched only not-for-profit schools that offer these programs to come up with our best value list below. Of the not-for-profit options, we included only schools with undergraduate graduation rates of 50% or higher and an undergraduate net price of less than $25,000 per year. A high graduation rate is usually an indicator of a school’s success, while a low net price is important as you consider the potential value of your education. In addition, we have included each school’s US News & World Report rankings, the percentage of faculty with tenure, and the graduate degrees offered.

Select Child Psychology Degree Programs

Traditional master’s programs, chestnut hill college.

Chestnut Hill College offers a Child & Adolescent Therapy concentration in its Master of Science (MS) in Clinical and Counseling Psychology degree program. Students learn about developmental issues and potential psychological problems in children and adolescents, as well as interventions involving individuals and families and play therapy. Graduates are qualified to become licensed in Pennsylvania (and many other states) as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and may work in treatment centers, hospitals, and schools. At least 15 credits are required for the Child & Adolescent Therapy concentration, including Assessment & Treatment of Children & Adolescents, Play Therapy, A Systemic Approach to the Problems of Adolescents, Intro to the Assessment & Treatment of Psychological Trauma, and one elective.

University of Washington

The University of Washington’s Department of Professional and Continuing Education offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Applied Child and Adolescent Psychology: Prevention and Treatment. Graduates are prepared to provide mental health services to all ages of children. Students attending full-time can complete the MA in 15 months, while part-time students can finish in two years. A total of 53 credits are required, including 42 credits of coursework and 11 credits of a clinical practicum through which students gain real-world experience in their communities at settings such as mental health agencies, group practices, nonprofits, and educational service districts. Courses include Principles of Assessment & Behavior Change; Conceptual Foundations of Developmental Psychopathology: Risk & Protective Factors; Multicultural Issues in Counseling Settings: Children, Adolescents, & Families; and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Youth & Adolescents. A capstone project, consisting of a final paper and a poster-style presentation, is required to help students integrate their classroom learning with their practicum experience.

Traditional Doctoral Programs

Montclair state university.

At Montclair State University, students can earn a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Psychology with advanced, specialized training in clinical child psychology. The clinical child psychology emphasis prepares graduates to assess and treat children and adolescents while considering the role of family and social influences. PhD students must earn 86 credits, which includes core and elective coursework as well as supervised clinical practica. Clinical child psychology students must take four elective courses in that area. Students will also be required to pass a comprehensive examination and defend a second-year project and dissertation. In addition, they must complete a full-time predoctoral internship over one year. At least six semesters of practicum must be completed before the predoctoral internship. To be considered for the program, applicants should submit an online application, transcripts, a curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a scholarly writing sample. GRE General and Psychology Subject Test scores are optional.

University of Alabama

The University of Alabama’s (UA) Department of Psychology offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Psychology with a Clinical Child Psychology subarea designed to prepare graduates for careers as scientists and scientist-practitioners. The clinical child subarea focuses on teaching students how to conduct research to improve the assessment of children and adolescents as well as enhance interventions for them. Practicing clinical child psychologists and pediatricians will train students as adjunct faculty alongside the core faculty to provide students with real-world perspectives. In addition, students will complete practica in settings such as the UA Psychology Clinic and the UA Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic, as well as a year-long clinical internship. Some students may be interested in an optional specialization in Child and Adolescent Forensic Psychology, which they can fulfill by taking five credit hours of coursework and a specialized practicum in the area.

University of Kansas

The Clinical Child Psychology Program (CCPP) at the University of Kansas (KU) is a clinical scientist (historically scientist-practitioner) model Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program emphasizing working with children, adolescents, and their families. Students take courses in child psychopathology; behavior and family therapy; assessment and intervention; and ethical or legal issues. A 30-hour master’s degree is included in the PhD program and requires at least six hours of thesis coursework and an empirically-based master’s thesis related to child psychology. Full-time students can complete the program in four years of study followed by an approved one-year doctoral clinical internship. Admission to the program is highly competitive and applicants must have a minimum of 15 credit hours in psychology, including research methodology and statistics. Experience in psychology research and working with children is highly recommended.

University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota’s (UMN) Institute of Child Development offers a doctoral degree program with specialized training in developmental psychopathology and clinical science. The program takes six years to complete, including an internship, and is focused on both research and clinical science with APA-accredited clinical training. Graduates typically find work in higher education, research or non-profit settings, children’s hospitals, elementary schools, medical schools, or outpatient clinics. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Admission requirements include three letters of recommendation, a curriculum vitae (CV), a personal statement, a diversity statement, and unofficial transcripts.

Online and Hybrid Programs

University of massachusetts global.

The University of Massachusetts (UMass) Global offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology with a concentration in Child Psychology that can be completed in an online format. The BA program teaches graduates to understand the development and treatment options for children with developmental differences such as autism. The program places an equal emphasis on theory and applied practice, and teaches graduates to understand techniques in statistics related to their behavioral science research. A minimum of 120 credits are required to graduate, which include 42 credits of general education requirements, 48 credits of psychology core requirements, and 12 credits of concentration requirements. Child psychology-specific coursework includes classes such as Child Development, Pediatric Neuropsychology, Applied Behavioral Analysis, and Preferred Behavior Enhancement. To be considered for the program, applicants must either have a high school diploma/GED or 12 or more transferable college credits with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Transcripts must be included with the application.

Southern New Hampshire University

The Master of Science (MS) in Psychology at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers an online concentration in Child and Adolescent Psychology. The flexible online program has no set class meeting times and offers instruction from professionals who work in the field focusing on research methods, learning theory, ethical practice, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and other topics important to child development. While the degree does not lead to licensure, it does prepare graduates to continue their education or work in fields such as education, social services, and healthcare. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field plus prior coursework in introductory psychology, social science statistics, and social science research methods. GRE/GMAT scores are not required.

Child Psychologist Career Information

How to become a child psychologist.

To become licensed as a child psychologist, a doctoral degree in psychology is required in all states. Candidates must also complete supervised postdoctoral experience in their field and pass the exams required by your state board of psychology. In general, to become a child psychologist, you will need to:

• Earn a bachelor’s degree and (optionally) a master’s degree in psychology or a related field.
• Earn an accredited EdD, PsyD, or PhD in Psychology with a specialization in Child Psychology.
• Complete the supervised clinical experience required by your state.
• Pass your state’s required exam(s), including the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
• Apply for and receive a child psychologist license from your state psychology board.
• Begin practicing as a child psychologist.
• Complete required continuing education to keep your license current.

Job Description

Earning a degree in child psychology provides graduates with a variety of employment opportunities. A child psychologist may work in schools, hospitals, the justice system, academia and research, or mental health care facilities. Those in clinical practice work with infants to teenagers and should also be able to work effectively with the families of children. Only licensed clinical child psychologists have access to the full range of treatment interventions and can diagnose and treat their patients. Helpful characteristics include being approachable, compassionate, communicative, patient, decisive, and confident. They should also be prepared to work with children with intellectual disabilities and behavioral issues.

With a doctoral degree in child psychology, graduates can pursue many jobs including becoming licensed clinical child psychologists. Those with a master’s degree may hold support roles in similar settings. Some of the jobs available for graduates of child psychology programs include:

• Academic researcher
• Child mental health liaison
• Clinical child psychologist*
• Family therapist
• Juvenile offender counselor
• School counselor
• School psychologist*

*A doctoral degree is required for this job title.

Salary and Job Outlook

Projections for growth in the fields of psychology and child psychology are positive. Job growth for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is projected to be 10.4% from 2020 to 2030. 5 All other psychologists, according to Projections Central, are projected to grow by just 2%. 5 According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2021, the average annual salary for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is $87,450. 6

Additional Resources

• APA’s Society for Child and Family Policy and Practice (Division 37) : Committed to the application of psychology to advocate for children and their families, advancing research, education, and training in the field.
• American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) : Certifies professional psychologists in a variety of specialties, including clinical child psychology.
• Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (SCCAP), Division 53 of the APA : Promotes advancement, research, and professionalism in the field, while offering its members informational resources, student benefits, a forum, and a professional journal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a doctorate degree to be a child psychologist.

Yes. To be a licensed clinical psychologist, a doctoral degree is required. 8 Also required, depending on state licensure requirements , are at least a one-year full-time, or two-year part-time, internship and postdoctoral supervised practical experience. With a bachelor’s or master’s degree in child psychology, an individual has opportunities to work alongside certified clinicians.

Should I attend a traditional or online child psychology program?

For a doctoral degree in child psychology on-campus study is typically required. However, for master’s programs, online degrees can be a good option. This option gives students the flexibility to work while earning their degree. The most important factor to consider is that the school holds regional or national accreditation .

How long will it take for me to get a child psychology degree?

The length of the program depends on the degree. Most master’s programs take one or two years to complete full-time. Doctoral programs usually take between five and seven years to complete.

Can I earn a master’s degree in child psychology?

It is possible to earn a master’s degree in child psychology. With a master’s-level degree, an individual may assist a certified psychologist or work in research. To be a certified clinical child psychologist, however, requires a doctoral degree from a school that is accredited by the APA or the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA).

Can I be a child psychologist with a bachelor’s degree?

No. To become a clinical child psychologist, all 50 states require you to have at least a doctoral degree. A bachelor’s degree is often the minimum requirement for admission into doctoral programs, so it can be a good start. A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely-related subject is the best option if you plan to further your education. A bachelor’s degree may qualify you for entry-level positions in the industry.

References: 1. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/ 2. US News & World Report Best Developmental Psychology Programs 2022: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-humanities-schools/developmental-psychology-rankings 3. US News & World Report National University Rankings: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities 4. College Factual: https://www.collegefactual.com/ 5. Projections Central Long Term Occupational Projections: https://projectionscentral.org/Projections/LongTerm 6. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193033.htm