psy d degree vs phd

Psychology Programs

What are the Key Differences Between a PsyD and Ph.D Program in Psychology?

If psychology is your major of choice, and you want to get an advanced degree, you might be faced with choosing between a PsyD and Ph.D. The question is, what are the differences between the two?

Ultimately, both degrees offer a high level of training in psychology, but how these programs go about doing that differs, both in terms of some of the coursework and the learning outcomes you are expected to master.

Likewise, you will find differences in the careers you might pursue after completing a PsyD as opposed to a Ph.D. Other differences exist, too – which are explained in the detailed guide below.

PsyD Vs Ph.D.

PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) emphasizes clinical practice and hands-on therapy. Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology) often focuses on research, theory, and teaching. While both can lead to therapeutic roles, their primary goals differ: PsyD trains clinicians, while PhD prepares researchers and academics.

PsyD programs are much newer. While Ph.D. programs in psychology date back to the late 1800s , PsyD programs weren’t developed until the early 1970s . But why did the psychology community feel the need to add another high-level degree offering?

Simply put, back then, as today, Ph.D. programs in psychology focused mostly on research and academic pursuits, not clinical applications of psychology. PsyD programs, on the other hand, were developed as professional training specifically for students who wished to provide psychological services to clients in a clinical setting.

As a result of this key difference, these programs approach coursework and learning outcomes in different ways.

Differences in Coursework

The core coursework of most PsyD and Ph.D. programs is actually quite similar. In both programs, you will spend the first couple of years of your studies exploring the central tenets of psychology in courses like psychopathology, developmental psychology, and ethical issues in psychology.

Likewise, PsyD and Ph.D. programs typically include coursework in psychological assessment, history and systems of psychology, and cognitive psychology. Behavioral psychology, psychological interventions, and psychoanalysis are common.

However, as one progresses through these programs, the focus of the coursework begins to diverge. For example, as a PsyD student, you can expect to continue a path of psychology coursework for much of the remainder of the program. But as a Ph.D. student, the third through sixth years of the program focus much more on research-related topics.

Let’s assume you are a third-year PsyD student. Since PsyD programs focus more on clinical applications of psychology, your semester course schedule might look like this:

Projective personality assessment
Couples and family therapy
Psychopharmacology

Now let’s assume you are a third-year Ph.D. student. With a focus on psychological research, your semester course load might look like this:

Biostatistics
Experimental design
Data analysis

So, while the foundational courses students initially take might be very similar, the focus in many programs begins to shift such that PsyD students get the needed training to apply their knowledge as a clinician, whereas Ph.D. students get the needed training to conduct research .

It’s worth mentioning that not all Ph.D. programs are wholly focused on research – some Ph.D. options mirror the training provided by a Psy.D.

Differences in Duration, Core Subjects, and Electives

When deciding between a PsyD and a PhD in psychology, understanding the duration and course structure can help prospective you align their choices with your personal and professional goals.

Duration : Typically, PsyD programs last between 4 to 6 years , including internship. The exact duration can vary based on full-time vs. part-time enrollment, the program’s intensity, and individual progress.
Course Structure :
Core Subjects : PsyD programs often include core courses in psychotherapy, diagnostics, psychological assessment, human development, and psychopathology.
Electives : PsyD programs may offer electives in areas like child psychology, forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and health psychology, allowing you to tailor your education to specific interests.
Clinical Training : Hands-on clinical experience is central to the PsyD curriculum. You will engage in supervised internships or practicums throughout your program.
Duration : PhD programs typically last between 5 to 7 years , with the variation often due to the time required for original research and dissertation completion.
Core Subjects : PhD programs frequently include core courses in research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, biological psychology, and psychometrics.
Electives : As a PhD candidate, you can choose electives related to your specific research interests, be it in social psychology, developmental psychology, organizational psychology, or other specializations.
Research : A significant portion of a PhD program is dedicated to research. You will be expected to produce original research, culminating in a dissertation. Some programs also require teaching or assisting in undergraduate courses.

Differences in Learning Outcomes

As a result of the differences in coursework between these programs, there are often distinct differences in learning outcomes as well.

A good example of this is in the application of knowledge and skills acquired in a PsyD versus a Ph.D. program:

A primary learning outcome for PsyD students might be successfully assessing and diagnosing a client with a specific psychological disorder. This would include having competency using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to identify the presenting issue and outlining a course of treatment to address the presenting.
A primary learning outcome for Ph.D. students might be to design and carry out a psychological experiment successfully. This would include the competency to examine relevant psychological research, conduct detailed data analyses, and interpret data to draw evidence-based conclusions.

We can drill down to even more specific differences in these learning outcomes. For example, a PsyD student might be evaluated on their ability to form a trusting relationship with a client in a clinical setting. This skill would be evaluated and assessed in the context of a supervised field experience, such as a pre-doctoral internship. The PsyD student would be observed by their supervisor, who would provide actionable feedback regarding the student’s demeanor with the client, application of relevant skills, and so forth.

Meanwhile, a Ph.D. student might be evaluated on their research competencies in the context of their dissertation research. The dissertation process is a lengthy one, with years of research devoted to the project and feedback provided by one’s dissertation committee at various points in the process.

But, rather than being evaluated on their ability to provide psychological services to a client, a Ph.D. student’s dissertation committee would provide a final evaluation of the quality of research and academic value of that research during the student’s dissertation defense. Again, while the underlying theory and training might be similar, the application of knowledge gained in a PsyD versus a Ph.D. program can be quite different.

Licensing and Certifications

After completing a PsyD program, graduates typically need to pass a state licensing exam, often referred to as the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) . Additionally, all states have post-doctoral supervised practice requirements before granting full licensure.

If you are looking to specialize further, there are various certifications available. These can be in areas like clinical child psychology, forensic psychology, school psychology, or neuropsychology. These certifications may enhance your job prospects, professional reputation, and potential earning capacity.

Just like PsyD graduates, PhD graduates aiming for clinical practice must pass the EPPP and fulfill any state-specific requirements. If you are planning to venture into academia, credentials like teaching certifications or post-doctoral fellowships can further bolster your academic profile.

Differences in Career Opportunities

As a result of the differences in coursework and learning outcomes in PsyD and Ph.D. programs, you’ll find that the career opportunities can be quite different as well.

Assume you are a PsyD graduate looking for your first job. With your background in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, it stands to reason that the career opportunities ahead of you would be in areas like clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or marriage and family therapy.

Bear in mind that the specific job opportunities you have depend on your specific PsyD training. For example, some PsyD programs focus on forensic psychology. In that case, the career opportunities you pursue would be specific to that field, such as clinical forensic psychology. With this specialization, jobs in marriage and family therapy would likely not be on your radar.

Even though PsyD programs might have a narrowed focus on a specific niche of psychology, what binds PsyD programs together is clinical training. Regardless of whether your PsyD program focuses on clinical psychology, developmental psychology, forensic psychology, or something in between, your training will lead to a career in which you apply your skills in a therapeutic setting with clients.

The career opportunities for Ph.D. students can be much broader than Psy.D. students. On the one hand, if you complete a traditional Ph.D. program focusing on psychology research, your career opportunities will mostly exist in the research and academic realms.

For example, you might pursue employment at a psychology research lab, conducting research trials for new medications to treat psychological conditions. Alternatively, you might pursue employment at a college as a teaching professor in psychology. In both instances, you’re applying your training in non-clinical fields.

However, as noted earlier, not all Ph.D. programs in psychology are research-focused. For example, you can complete a Ph.D. program in counseling psychology and pursue a career in community mental health. Likewise, your Ph.D. program might provide you with training in child psychology, which would lead to a career working with children and adolescents in a clinical setting.

Differences in Admission Requirements

The application process for PsyD and PhD programs can be competitive. Admission requirements for PsyD and PhD programs slightly differ:

Educational Background : Most PsyD programs require a bachelor’s degree, but not always in psychology. However, having a foundation in psychology can be beneficial.
Prerequisite Courses : Some programs might require completion of specific coursework, such as statistics, research methods, or foundational psychology courses.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) : Many programs require GRE scores, but some might waive this requirement.
Letters of Recommendation : Typically, 2-3 letters from academic or professional references..
Personal Statement : An essay detailing your interest in the field, career goals, and reasons for choosing a PsyD program.
Clinical Experience : While not always mandatory, having prior experience in a relevant clinical or counseling setting can strengthen an application.
Educational Background : A bachelor’s or master’s degree, often with a preference for psychology or a related field.
Research Experience : Given the research emphasis of PhD programs, prior research experience, publications, or presentations can be a significant advantage.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) : Required by most, though some institutions have started to eliminate this requirement.
Letters of Recommendation : Generally, 2-3 letters, with a preference for those from research advisors or professors familiar with your academic abilities.
Statement of Purpose : This is more than just a personal statement. It should detail your research interests, potential faculty mentors, past research projects, and long-term career aspirations.
Interview : Many PhD programs have an interview component, either in-person or virtual, where the fit between you and the program is evaluated.

Both PsyD and PhD programs may also assess other materials like writing samples and CVs.

Is a PsyD Harder than a PhD?

Whether a PsyD is harder than a Ph.D. really comes down to your individual strengths as a student and prospective psychologist.

For example, if you aren’t comfortable working with clients with serious psychological issues, you might have difficulty completing a PsyD program since much of its focus is on developing the skills necessary to build an effective therapeutic relationship with a client. Likewise, if you aren’t terribly interested in mastering the techniques of specific psychological approaches (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy), you will find a PsyD program hard to complete.

Conversely, a Ph.D. program would be difficult if you struggle with the scientific applications of psychology. If statistics, for example, is hard for you to understand, you will have trouble in a Ph.D. program since statistics is a much larger component of the curriculum than in a PsyD program.

In other words, in a vacuum, a PsyD program isn’t harder than a Ph.D. program, nor is a Ph.D. program harder than a PsyD program. What it comes down to is what your strengths are, what your goals are, and what you’re interested in as a future psychologist. If you align your selected program to those components, you’ll have an easier time completing the program.

It should go without saying, though, that both PsyD and Ph.D. programs are difficult. They require years of training and practical experience, an enormous output of time and money, and require a sincere dedication to mastering relevant knowledge and skills. No matter which type of program you select, you will have to work hard to achieve your educational goals!

Is a PsyD as Good as a PhD?

Yes, a PsyD is every bit as accepted as a high-level psychology degree as a Ph.D. Think about it like the differences between a Master of Science and a Master of Arts – though these degrees have distinct differences, they are widely accepted as equal qualifications for many jobs in the psychology field.

Which is Better? A PhD or PsyD?

As discussed earlier, a Ph.D. is often preparatory for a career in research psychology and academics, which usually makes it a better choice if you wish to pursue jobs in those specific fields. On the other hand, a PsyD might be a better option if you prefer to explore a career in a helping profession like clinical or counseling psychology.

But this isn’t a clear-cut, black-and-white issue in which one of these degrees is always better than the other. Each degree has developed as a quality training program for different psychology applications. Which one is better for your specific needs and interests depends mainly on how you want to apply what you’ve learned in a work setting.

Either way you go, a PsyD. or Ph.D. in psychology is an excellent vehicle for advancing your education. When it comes down to it, you will emerge from either program with a terminal degree in your field backed by years of training and practical experience that makes you an expert in psychology.

PsyD vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?

Studying psychology provides a window into human behavior. Doctoral psychology programs teach both an understanding of how people think and analytical and reasoning skills to further success in various careers. But deciding to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology means dedicating yourself to the highest level of education available in the field and represents a commitment of several years and significant effort.

While both a doctor of psychology (PsyD) degree and a doctor of philosophy (PhD) promise remarkable opportunities for advancement, the two offer very different career outcomes. While a PhD puts you on a path to pursue research and further understanding, a PsyD allows you to practice as a psychologist.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , demand for psychologists with both degrees is expected to continue growing at a rate of approximately 8% over the next decade as more and more individuals, organizations, and academic institutions have greater need of counseling services and insights into the way that people act, think, and engage with one another.

What Are PsyD and PhD In Psychology Degrees For?

While both a PsyD and a PhD provide you with a doctoral degree and the highest level of education in the field, the two provide different types of expertise, and it is important for you to understand their distinctions so that you can make the choice that best matches your goals.

A PhD in psychology trains you in research and statistical analysis in preparation for adding to the body of knowledge, either through your own scientific pursuits or by helping to educate others studying psychology . By contrast, PsyD studies focuses more extensively on providing psychological services, whether counseling or applying psychology’s principles to further an organization’s goals.

Though pursuing either one will not preclude you from crossing over to a career that’s more aligned to the other, choosing the degree that best suits your long-term interests provides you with the education that is best suited to your aspirations.

Picking Between A Doctor of Psychology or PhD In Psychology Program

To help you determine which of the two doctoral degrees is the best choice for you, let’s take a look at what each type of program entails and what type of future each prepares you for.

What is a PsyD?

A doctor of psychology program generally takes between 4-6 years to complete and prepares you for a career in clinical practice. It has less of an emphasis on research than human behavior and development, psychological assessment, and intervention.

Most programs require completion of approximately sixty credits of study, participation in 2,000-to-3,000 hours of clinical practice and internship, and preparation and presentation of a dissertation.

Upon completion of the program, graduates demonstrate the understanding and skills needed to guide one-on-one, family and group therapy sessions, to guide organizational strategies around anticipated human behaviors and engagement, to conduct neuropsychological assessments, and to treat mental health problems and issues.

Who Should Get a PsyD?

Doctoral candidates best suited for a PsyD are those who want to engage directly with individuals, families or groups, using their education and training to provide service rather than conducting research.

Those enrolled in PsyD programs receive extensive training in assessment and intervention, on human development, and on the role of cultural and economic contributors, all with the goal of better facilitating their understanding of behavior. PsyD students also study the practical aspects of clinical psychology, including legal, ethical, and professional issues.

PsyD Careers and Salaries

With a PsyD degree you become prepared for professional practice within any number of applications of psychology science. A PsyD degree trains you to use your knowledge and training in service and practice, with an emphasis on assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and making improvements in the condition of and relations between humans in a variety of environments. Depending upon the career that they choose, their practice can include engaging with people in a clinical setting, at their workplace, in school, or elsewhere.

Typical careers held by those with a PsyD degree include:

Median Salary: $51,340
Career Outlook: +16% (2020-2030)

Family and marriage therapists work with couples and families with the goal of mediating and guiding the way that they engage with one another while providing coping strategies to improve family dynamics and to help those within these relationships deal with a wide range of issues, including behavioral problems, grief, domestic violence, marital conflicts, and substance abuse.

Marriage and family therapists observe the interactions between the individuals in these groups and provide them with insights about troubling patterns, guidance on navigating crises, diagnosing mental health issues and disorders, and replacing disruptive or dysfunctional behaviors with alternatives that offer more positive engagement.

Median Salary: $105,780
Career Outlook: +8% (2020-2030)

The services of those holding doctoral degrees in psychology are increasingly in demand from a wide range of organizations and corporations seeking assistance with improving organizational behavior or providing coaching to managers and executives. These professionals apply their clinical skills in areas such as integrating systems theory or family therapy to companies hoping to address cultural issues or improve communication and cooperation within and between teams.

What is a PhD in Psychology?

A doctor of philosophy in psychology degree generally takes between 5-7 years to complete, and prepares you for a career in research and academia. The focus of a PhD in psychology program tends to be on statistics along with qualitative and quantitative research methods. The career goals of most students point towards teaching or scientific inquiry rather than private practice or direct engagement with patients.

Most PhD in psychology program require approximately a year-long internship and credit requirements that range between 60 and 125 credits. The programs require a significant level of concentration and are often so demanding that students need to dedicate themselves to the program on a full-time basis. The admission criteria into a PhD program tends to be more competitive than that of PsyD programs.

Once students in PhD in psychology programs successfully prepared and presented their dissertation, they have proven their command of the biological, intellectual and cognitive foundations of behavior, assessment, statistics and research techniques, research strategies, and more. They graduate prepared for careers in specialty areas including behavioral neuroscience, clinical psychology, human growth and development, with a particular emphasis on research and its application.

Who Should Get a PhD in Psychology?

In assessing whether you should pursue a PhD in psychology, you need to determine what type of career you hope to have and how you plan to apply your education. If your goal is to become a tenure-track professor at a research-oriented university or to dedicate yourself to academic research, then there is no doubt that a PhD is the right degree for you. The same is true if you hope to work in a business-oriented field such as market research or product development with an emphasis on consumer insights.

The benefit of a PhD in psychology is its emphasis on research design and analytical skills, and that training can be applied to numerous fields that do not involve direct engagement with, assessment, diagnosis, or interventions with patients.

PhD in Psychology Careers and Salaries

Those who pursue a PhD in psychology tend to be less focused on the monetary benefits of their education than in the intellectual stimulation that they receive or the benefits that their education can provide to clients or to greater understanding of human behaviors gained through their efforts.

The career goals of those who opt for a PhD can include clinical roles, but more frequently veer towards professions that place them in a position of conducting research and applying their knowledge to educating students and providing insights that can be used by other fields. Possible careers for PhD graduates include:

Median Salary: $82,180

The field of forensic psychology applies general principles of research in the field of clinical psychology to legal issues. This can include assessment, treatment, and evaluation of topics such as eyewitness identification, suggestibility, competence to testify, motivation and threat assessment. Forensic psychologists are often called on to provide custody evaluations, counseling services to crime victims, screening of law enforcement applicants and intervention and treatment for juvenile and adult offenders.

Median Salary: $80,560
Career Outlook: +12% (2020-2030)

Those who teach psychology are also frequently researchers who split their time between conducting scientific inquiry within an academic environment and teaching it to students at the undergraduate and graduate level. Professors with a PhD in Psychology gather, document and communicate psychological knowledge.

Median Salary: $125,350
Career Outlook: +9% (2020-2030)

The knowledge and training gained with a PhD in psychology is extremely valuable to numerous industries seeking greater understanding of human behavior, and this is particularly true of the world of politics. PhDs in psychology are well-positioned to guide candidates in the way that they present themselves to voters and to help legislators craft laws or discuss issues with their constituents, assessing what their priorities and perspectives are and how marketing efforts, speeches, votes and political positions could be received.

Best Psychology Schools

Choosing the right psychology program can be stressful, especially with so many options available. Using a rigorous methodology , Universities.com considers these to be the 10 best psychology schools in the nation:

Northwestern University
Columbia University in the City of New York
Lindsey Wilson College
University of Pennsylvania
Webster University
Lamar University
Liberty University
Capella University
Walden University
University of Central Florida

To find more psychology schools, check out our complete ranking of all psychology schools in the nation.

If you’re looking for other schools that offer PdD programs on psychology, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the perfect school for you !

PsyD Vs PhD At A Glance

Choosing between a PsyD and a PhD is a matter of personal choice, and your answer depends upon your personal goals. Though both doctor of psychology degrees provide you with the education, training and credentials to put you at the pinnacle of the field, there are important differences, including:

A PsyD program better prepares you for a service-based psychology career geared towards counseling, while a PhD program better prepares you for a career geared towards discovery through research and academia.
Acceptance into PsyD programs are generally less competitive than PhD programs.
PsyD programs are better suited to online learning, while PhD programs favor in-person learning.
PsyD program lengths generally take four-to-six years to complete, while PhD programs generally take five-to-eight years to complete.
A PsyD curriculum is likely to include classes focused on assessment and intervention, while a PhD curriculum is likely to focus on statistics and analysis.

What to Look for In Psychology Doctoral Degree Programs

Doctoral degrees in psychology are offered in traditional, on-campus settings as well as online. Both options provide similarly high levels of education and the same curriculum requirements, often pairing students with an individual faculty advisor responsible for guiding their path to a doctoral degree.

There are many advantages to pursuing a degree online, including providing students the ability to choose a program based on its focus rather than on geographic proximity and allowing them to continue upholding family responsibilities. Despite this convenience, many students pursuing either a PsyD or a PhD choose an in-person program that allows them to fully immerse themselves in their studies.

As is the case with choosing between a PsyD or a PhD, there is no right or wrong choice. Students that choose online programs graduate with the same credentials as those who choose in-person programs, so each candidate should choose the option that best suits their personal needs.

Though requirements vary, most states require that psychologists counseling patients complete a doctoral degree in psychology and have a state-issued license. The requirements for these licenses generally include:

Earning either a PsyD or a PhD from an institution of higher learning that has been accredited by the American Psychological Association
Passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP )
Fulfilling a minimum number of supervised clinical practice hours.

Many graduates recommend investigating the credentialing requirements of the states where they are interested in working to ensure that their doctoral degree properly prepares them and meets their standards.

The best way to ensure that the PsyD or PhD program you select prepares you for licensure is to select a program that has gone beyond the basic regional accreditation of institutions of higher learning and been recognized by the American Psychological Association . This specialized accreditation is recognized by both the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education, and specifically addresses the high standards needed for professional education and training in psychology.

The APA currently accredits hundreds of programs throughout the nation, providing those interested in pursuing their doctoral degree an extensive range of offerings for their professional future.

Applying to Psychology Doctoral Programs

Choosing to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology represents a significant investment of time, money and effort with the anticipated outcome of becoming either a noted academician and scholar or an accomplished, difference-making professional. Entry to these programs is competitive, particularly for those seeking entry into one of the programs offering a PhD in psychology program, which generally only accept 10-15% of applicants.

The first step in the application process is similar to the one you likely pursued when applying to undergraduate programs: You need to identify the programs that best match your long-term goals and your personal needs, then address each of their application requirements by assembling needed materials including letters of recommendations and personal statements and ensuring that they are in each program’s possession well in advance of their deadlines.

Admission Requirements for PsyD and PhD Programs

Individuals choosing to pursue either a PsyD or a PhD come from a wide range of backgrounds and interests, and this is reflected in the fact that programs do not necessarily require that applicants possess an undergraduate degree in Psychology, though those who have not taken foundational courses likely need to investigate how they’ll need to supplement their education before proceeding with their doctoral degrees.

Acceptance into both PsyD and PhD programs generally requires:

Transcripts from accredited baccalaureate program showing a minimum 3.0 GPA, preferably in psychology
Personal statement or statement of purpose
Submission of scores on both the general GRE exam and the GRE subject exam in Psychology
Three letters of recommendation
Personal Interview (in person or by phone or video conference)
A PsyD is a doctoral degree in psychology. It is an indication that an individual has attained the highest level of education available in the study of psychology, but they are not a medical doctor.
PsyD and PhD are both terminal degrees in psychology that indicate having attained the highest level of education and expertise in the field. The determination of which is better depends upon the goals of the individual pursuing the degree.
The PsyD degree provides education and training geared towards clinical practice and a professional career in treating patients, while a PhD education focuses more heavily on research and academic pursuits. The PhD generally takes longer to attain.
In the majority of states, psychologists are not able to write prescriptions for medication. Illinois, Louisiana and New Mexico permit licensed psychologists to qualify for prescribing authority after taking additional courses in psychopharmacology.

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PsyD vs PhD

Differences Between PsyD vs PhD Degree

Whether working in an elementary school, in private practice or in an academic research setting, psychologists must have a thorough education in mental, emotional and behavioral health before beginning their careers.

For those interested in entering the field of psychology, there are two main degree paths — Doctor of Psychology ( PsyD ) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in psychology. While both degrees will prepare you well for high paying careers in psychology , you may find one degree will suit your career goals better than the other.

What’s On This Page

Research vs Clinical Experience

Length of Desired Program

Competitiveness and financing, choosing your final path.

While the degrees are quite similar and may lead to the same career, a few key differences distinguish them. Let’s break down the differences to help you determine which track, a Ph.D. in psychology or a PsyD, might be right for you.

Research vs. Clinical Experience

The biggest difference between a PsyD and Ph.D. is the overall nature of the programs and how they go about training individuals for careers in psychology.

A Ph.D. in psychology is just like any other Ph.D. in that the program will provide an intensive focus on research, both how to understand published works and how to conduct scientifically valid research that expands the body of scientific knowledge. This allows eventual doctorate-holders to practice psychology but also to conduct and publish their own new academic research to add to the understanding of psychology.

Featured PsyD vs PhD Video

In this video, Capella University explains the differences between PsyD and PhD. The video address’s would you rather work in research, administration, or an academic setting, or see patients in a clinical practice? A PhD prepares you to teach, while a PsyD is more geared toward a professional career.

Did you know Capella University offers both a Ph.D. and Psy.D. in Psychology available 100% online ? Find your psychology niche and take your career to the next level—perhaps start a consulting business, prepare to teach, build your practice, or expand your understanding of human development. See their award-winning FlexPath Online learning format.

No matter the path you take, a career in psychology is likely to be a successful one. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for psychologists is expected to grow 14% through 2026, which is faster than the rate for all jobs.

EXPERT VOICE : The bottom line, however, is that if you want to do research, the PhD is for you. It is important to get as much research experience as an undergrad as you can if you want to obtain a PhD – both because the research will make you a better applicant, and because you want to make sure you find the research that is right for you before you commit that many years to research. If you are more interested in practice and you don’t like research, finding an accredited PsyD program is a much better choice than the PhD. – Laurel Zelnik , studied at Carnegie Mellon University

In addition, psychologists tend to be well-paid. BLS data indicates a median wage of over $75,000, much higher than the national median wage, and the top 10% of workers in the field can earn $125,000 or more.

Elementary and secondary schools are some of the largest employers of psychologists (27%), with 24% of psychologists being in private practice as clinicians or consultants.

With such growth potential and a high-income ceiling, a doctorate in psychology, whether a Ph.D. or a PsyD, is likely to be a smart investment, but which degree is right for you will depend on what you plan to do once the degree is in your hands.

U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook. (2018). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-1
American Psychological Association Office of Graduate & Postgraduate Education & Training, Graduate Study in Psychology 2016. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/education/grad/survey-data/2016-report.pdf
National Science Foundation National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Science & Engineering Doctorates. (2018). Retrieved from https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf19301/data
Things You Can Do With a Psychology Doctorate Degree. (2019). Retrieved from https://psydprograms.org/50-things-you-can-do-with-a-psychology-degree/
How to Earn a Doctorate of Psychology Degree?. (2019). Retrieved from https://psydprograms.org/how-to-earn-a-doctorate-of-psychology-degree/
5 Tips on Applying to a Doctorate of Psychology Program. (2019). Retrieved from https://psydprograms.org/5-tips-on-applying-to-a-doctorate-of-psychology-program/

Differences Between Psy.D. and Ph.D. in Psychology Programs

As you consider your choices for getting your doctorate degree in psychology, it’s important to understand that there are two main types of degrees: A Doctor of Psychology degree (Psy.D.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in psychology. Although there are likenesses between the two — either one will qualify you to work as a fully licensed psychologist, researcher, or professor — there are also some important distinctions.

This page will explain the similarities and differences between the two degrees and help you choose which degree is right for you.

Similarities and Differences Between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D.

In general, a Psy.D. program focuses on clinical psychology — treating patients. There are many career paths you can choose with this degree: you can specialize in school psychology, forensic psychology, or experimental psychology, to name just a few.

A Ph.D. program, on the other hand, is more academic. Graduates of this program tend to work in research or teach. However, it is possible to get a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, which will prepare you for working as a clinician as well as teaching or conducting research.

Here’s a table that compares the two degrees by key factors. You can find more in-depth information following the table.

*Exception: A Ph.D. in clinical psychology prepares you to work with patients as a clinician.

Getting a Psy.D. Degree

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), the Psy.D. degree emerged in the 1970s as a Ph.D. alternative. It was designed as advanced training for the clinical application of psychology in professional practice as opposed to a path for research and academia. In most cases, the degree is offered only through professional schools of psychology, whether they’re standalone graduate schools or institutions affiliated with research or teaching universities.

Steps to Getting a Psy.D.

Psy.D. programs tend to be slightly less competitive than Ph.D. programs. Most schools require you to first complete a graduate program from an accredited institution, although some programs offer tracks for admission with a bachelor’s degree. You’ll also likely be required to take the GRE general test, with some schools also requiring completion of the GRE psychology subject test. A strong background in psychology is almost always preferred, and those with in-field mental health experience often get preference.

Although you’ll conduct some research and spend the first year or two taking classes and attending seminars, you’ll be required to complete a supervised practicum in a clinic and write a doctoral dissertation in the latter part of the program. Although Psy.D. programs are usually shorter than Ph.D. programs, you’ll need to tack on up to two years of a supervised internship after you’ve earned your degree in order to practice and treat patients.

Curriculum varies depending on your program’s specialty and focus, although most programs include subject matter such as ethics, general psychology, methodology, assessment, and intervention. No matter the track, you’ll learn how to:

Apply the scientific method and behavioral science knowledge in clinical settings
Investigate research methods, theories, and practice guidelines involving various mental illnesses, different populations, and modalities of treatments

Careers and Specialties

A Psy.D. program offers many paths to careers that involve assessing and treating mental illnesses, disorders, and disabilities — the general umbrella term for this kind of work is “ clinical psychology ”. After earning a clinical doctorate, you can work in environments as varied as private practice, hospitals, military facilities, prisons, schools, government entities, and corporate settings. Here are some of the possible specialties you could consider:

Child psychologist : work with children who have suffered trauma, who have abnormal psychology, or who suffer from learning disabilities.
Developmental psychologist : examine changes in human development — including perceptual, intellectual, social, emotional, and personality changes — across the human lifespan.
Educational psychologist : study how people learn, retain knowledge, and develop in educational settings. You’ll mostly work with children and examine the cognitive, social, and emotional learning processes, as well as the obstructions to those learning processes, like behavioral problems and social barriers.
School psychologist : apply your expertise in learning, mental health, and behavior to support both students and teachers to create safe, healthy, supportive, and productive learning environments.
Counseling psychologist : work with groups and individuals of all ages to focus on how people function in relationships and as individuals in their social groups, intimate relationships, family lives, work, and school settings. You’ll also serve people who struggle with emotional disorders, mental illness, or situational crises.
Military psychologist: focus specifically on the enhanced and specialized needs of military personnel, veterans, and their loved ones to perform psychiatric evaluations and assess and treat emotional and mental disorders.
Industrial-organizational psychologist: study individual and group behavior in the workplace and use your knowledge and expertise to develop solutions for problems in the work environment. Industrial-organizational psychologist are also sometimes called an I/O psychologist.
Cognitive psychologist : study mental processes relating to memory, perception, and learning.
Behavioral psychologist : use techniques such as behavioral modeling, cognitive restructuring, and classical and operant conditioning to identify and alter destructive, dysfunctional, or otherwise unhealthy behavior in the people you serve and treat.
Neuropsychologist : apply the principles of assessment and intervention in cases of human behavior related to central nervous system function. That could include working with a wide variety of brain-behavior issues such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Criminal psychologist : work with law enforcement entities to prevent crime and apprehend criminals. You’ll examine the thoughts, patterns, motives, emotions, reasoning, and feelings of people who commit or are likely to commit crimes.
Forensic psychologist : provide psychological assessments of people who are involved in the legal system. The field, which is frequently romanticized and misrepresented on TV and in the movies, requires training in law and forensic psychology, as well as strong clinical skills.
Correctional facility psychologist: provide or oversee individual or group therapy, crisis intervention, drug-treatment services, client assessment, and employee-assistance programs in prisons, jails, mental institutions, and juvenile facilities.
Social psychologist : study how people are affected by both other people’s behavior and their physical and social environments.
Experimental psychologist : use basic and applied research to examine questions, including how behavior shapes the human experience, what influences human behavior, and what compels people to behave in certain ways.
Less-common careers include evolutionary psychologist, positive psychologist, and sports psychologist.

Online Degrees

The APA does not accredit doctoral programs that are conducted entirely online (although other accreditation may be available), and fully online programs will not prepare you for licensure. However, there are some APA-accredited hybrid doctoral programs in psychology; in such programs, a limited number of courses can be taken online.

Three such programs of note include:

Alliant International University (Clinical Ph.D. and Clinical Psy.D. programs offered on the Fresno, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, and San Francisco campuses)
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (Clinical Psy.D., Los Angeles campus)
Michigan State University (Clinical Ph.D., School Ph.D.)

Licensure and Accreditation

The required licensure and accreditation required for, and associated with, each program and career field will vary based on your career path and location.

Every state in America requires you to earn a license from the state board in order to work directly with patients. Details vary by state, but most boards require you to earn a doctorate and accrue a specific number of supervised clinical hours, often 2,000 hours of internship and 2,000 hours during postdoc. You’ll also be asked to provide documentation detailing the number of patients you worked with during postdoc and the types of issues they experienced. Visit the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards for information specific to your state.

Accreditation

No matter which path you choose, it’s critical that your Psy.D. program is accredited. Accreditation is the process by which a recognized and independent third-party governing body assesses and verifies the quality and standards of an academic institution and/or program. Degrees from unaccredited schools will not be sufficient for state licensure boards.

Make sure to check accreditations for any degree program you consider, and also check specific accreditation requirements for both your state and your career. Several specialized organizations offer additional accreditation. For example, accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA), the professional organization that represents America’s psychologists, is considered very prestigious.

Other accrediting bodies include:

Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)

Take the time to check out the criteria and meaning of each accreditation listed as not all are equally valuable.

Spotlight: Featured Schools

Following is a list of schools that we chose to feature based on a number of factors, including reviews, cost, number of degree programs, program length, and flexibility. Note that these schools focus on Psy.D. degrees — you can find featured programs for Ph.D. degrees on our doctorate of psychology page.

The Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology in Piscataway, New Jersey, was founded in 1974. The school is for full-time students only. It requires both the general and psychology subject test GREs for entry.

Degree Programs : The doctor of psychology program in clinical psychology (clinical Psy.D.) is designed to train and educate psychologists for a career practicing in clinical and other applied professional settings. There is also a doctor of psychology program in school psychology (school Psy.D.), which prepares psychologists at the doctoral level for practice in professional settings with children in schools and youth in other community settings.

Tuition: $10,848 for New Jersey residents, $18,072 for out-of-state residents

Located in Waco, Texas, Baylor University’s graduate school delivers education from a Christian perspective. Chartered in 1854, Baylor is the oldest continually operating university in Texas. More than 16,000 students call Baylor home.

Degree Programs : The Psy.D. in clinical psychology follows a practitioner-scientist model of training to give professional psychologists the necessary conceptual and clinical competencies. The five-year program, which is fully accredited by the APA, includes four years in residence in Waco and a fifth-year internship.

Tuition: Tuition is paid for all students accepted into the program, who also receive a stipend.

Indiana U. of Pennsylvania

Nearly 12,000 students are enrolled in IUP, which was founded in 1875. Located in the city of Indiana, Pennsylvania, this public university is a research-based school that incorporates both traditional and non-traditional learning models.

Degree Programs : The doctor of psychology in clinical psychology program emphasizes professional applications of psychology based on scientific knowledge of the practice. It meets the academic requirements of licensure and prepares graduates for immediate practice in professional settings.

Tuition : $18,144 for in-state students, $27,296 for out-of-state applicants

Widener University

More than 3,000 graduate students study at Widener, and 90% of the school’s faculty has earned a doctorate or the highest degree in their field. The school boasts the longest-running Psy.D. program in the United States.

Degree Programs : The Psy.D. program, which follows the scholar-practitioner model, is available in several concentrations: child, adolescent, and family therapy; cognitive-behavioral therapy/acceptance and commitment therapy; consulting psychology; cross-cultural and diversity psychology; forensic psychology; health psychology; and psychoanalytic psychology. One unique feature of the program is that it may be pursued as a dual degree, along with a graduate-level degree in either business, criminal justice, or human sexuality.

Tuition :$1,178 per credit

La Salle University

La Salle has been a Philadelphia institution since its founding in 1863. The private university’s School of Arts and Sciences offers the graduate-level psychology degree, which is delivered by more than a dozen combined faculty members.

Degree Programs : The full-time, five-year Psy.D. in clinical psychology program is designed for students who have a master’s degree in a mental health discipline or a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. There are three potential areas of concentration: clinical health, child clinical, and general practice.

Tuition: $985 per credit hour

Radford University

Located in the western Virginia foothills, Radford is a public university with fewer than 10,000 students. Its APA-accredited Psy.D. program focuses on rural mental health with a secondary emphasis on social justice and cultural diversity.

Degree Programs : Applicants for Radford’s doctor of psychology in counseling program must come with a master’s degree in a human services field and must have provided face-to-face counseling services by August of the year in which they wish to enroll. The program includes a 2,000-hour internship.

Tuition: $12,203 in-state students and $17,441 for out-of-state students. Remission is available for some applicants

Indiana State University

Located in Terre Haute, Indiana State University boasts a 94% placement rate. You may be eligible for financial aid, payment plans or, if you’re a resident of Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, or the Midwest Consortium, you may qualify for a special scholarship.

Degree Programs : The doctor of psychology in clinical psychology program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and has been APA-accredited since 1985.

Tuition: $412 per credit hour for in-state students, $527 for Interstate or Midwest Consortium scholarship recipients, and $809 for out-of-state residents

Getting a Ph.D. Degree

Unlike a Psy.D., which is a doctor of psychology degree, a Ph.D. is a doctor of philosophy degree. If you choose the latter, your training will emphasize the scientist-practitioner model. This degree, according to the APA , is for those interested in “generating new knowledge through scientific research” (e.g., setting up experiments, collecting data, applying statistical and analytical techniques) “and/or gaining teaching experience”.

The psychology Ph.D. is slightly more demanding in terms of time than the Psy.D. Your work will include:

Greater in-depth exposure to past and current theories, and heavy focus on research methods
A clinical internship and a supervised residency
A written doctoral dissertation, which includes your own original research

You are eligible to apply for national and state licensure with this degree as well, making it a great choice if you are looking to obtain as much knowledge as possible.

For more detailed information, please refer to our Doctorate in Psychology page.

PsyD vs PhD – Differences Explained
Types of Doctorates

A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology, whilst a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. Both are doctoral degrees, but their focuses and goals differ. A PsyD focuses on the application of knowledge and aims to train students in clinical psychology. A PhD in psychology focuses on research and adding new knowledge, often leading to a career in research or academia, rather than clinical work.

Introduction

Many graduate students who possess a psychology degree look to improve their career outlook through postgraduate study. In particular, aspiring psychologists look to complete a doctoral degree. There are two popular choices for these psychology students, the PsyD and the PhD. Please note this article has been written for the perspective of a US audience.

What is a PsyD and a PhD?

There are two types of doctoral degrees in psychology: a PsyD and a PhD. Here is what they stand for:

A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology.
A PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy.

Both doctoral degree programs prepare students for careers in psychology, but their goals and purposes differ.

A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree focuses on the practical and clinical applications of psychology. The PsyD program provides clinical training to doctoral students teaching you how to apply scientific knowledge of psychology and how to work with patients in a professional environment. A PhD in psychology places a greater emphasis on research methods and the theoretical concepts of the subject, requiring students to contribute novel findings to their area of research.

Is Someone With a PsyD a Doctor?

A PsyD is a doctoral degree, in the same way a PhD is, and those who possess one use the title of doctor in their name (e.g. Dr. Surname). To be clear however, PsyD holders are not medical doctors unless they also hold a medical degree, such as an MD in the US or MBBS in the UK.

Both doctorates are valuable to possess, but PsyDs have less international recognition and are more commonplace in the US.

Is a PsyD or PhD Better?

Neither degree is better than the other, but one may be more suitable for you, based on your career goals.

Generally, PsyD programs are suited to students who wish to pursue a career in providing psychological services in a clinical setting. In comparison, PhD programs are suited to those who wish to pursue a career path in research or academia.

This does not mean that those with a PsyD degree cannot pursue a career in research or academia, nor does it mean that those with a PhD cannot practice clinical psychology.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PsyD?

We are often asked “how many years is a PsyD?”. Although the duration of a PsyD varies depending on the institution, the typical program lasts 4 to 6 years. This usually includes a yearlong clinical internship toward the end of the program.

In comparison, a PhD in Psychology typically takes 6 to 8 years to complete.

A PsyD program is usually less expensive than a PhD psychology program. However, funding is more widely available for PhD programs, which means PsyD programs are often associated with higher levels of student debt.

What is the Difference Between a PsyD and PhD Program?

As mentioned previously, PsyD programs are designed to focus on the direct application of scientific knowledge. Coursework and topics of study include human behavior, providing clinical care to patients, assessment & diagnosis, therapy, and mental health conditions. This may involve a clinical training program and trainees undertaking clinical placements.

PhD programs focus on the theory behind psychology. Topics of study include analyzing data, statistical models, and research methodology.

There is some overlap between the two doctoral programs. PsyD students may still study data analyzation, and PhD students will still learn about the clinical practice of psychology and may gain clinical experience to aid their professional development.

Though the application process may be similar, PhD programs in psychology tend to be more competitive and have lower acceptance rates than PsyD programs

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Does a PsyD Require a Dissertation?

Some PsyD programs require students to complete a written dissertation or thesis . Those that do will require the dissertation or thesis to address an applied clinical problem.

Most PsyD programs do not require submission of a dissertation or thesis. Instead, a PsyD student is required to complete an internship (also referred to as a practicum) and carry out clinical work at the end of their doctorate degree program. These internships are typically a year long and assess your clinical skills in a professional practice on actual patients.

What Jobs Can You Get With a PsyD?

The PsyD program follows the ‘practitioner-scholar’ model, engaging in practice-oriented study. This allows those with a doctor of psychology degree to pursue a wide range of career options, including:

Clinical Psychologist,
Counselling psychologist,
Mental health counselor,
School psychologist,
Psychotherapist,
Consultant,
Licensed psychologist.

It should be noted that PsyD holders can operate in a broad range of professional environments and clinical settings such as hospitals, correctional facilities, private practices, mental health clinics, social work and schools.

In comparison, the PhD program follows the ‘scientist-practitioner’ model which prepares the doctoral student for a career in research & academia. Typical destinations for a PhD student include:

Higher Education (university professor/lecturer),
Licensed Psychologist,
Researcher.

The career opportunities with a doctoral degree in psychology are also dependent on the specific research area of the doctoral program. Research areas can include forensic psychology, health psychology, counselling psychology, social psychology, social science, applied psychology, educational psychology, psychological assessment, social care, cognitive behavioral psychology and psychological therapies.

Whichever method you choose to attain your doctorate in psychology, know that you will have invaluable skills and experience that make you a valuable asset in a number of industries not just within clinical psychology.

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The Differences Between a PhD in Psychology and PsyD

Written by Jennifer Cione-Kroeschel

What Is a PhD in Psychology?

A PhD in Psychology is a doctorate degree designed to lead to the development of new information in the field, though it can just as well be used to go into clinical practice. Someone who holds a PhD, though, will be well prepared to teach psychology or work with other researchers on experimental trials and studies. The goal of having a PhD in Psychology is to advance the knowledge of mental health issues as well as the methods used to treat them.

While it used to be the only doctoral level degree in the field, now that a PsyD is available, a PhD is beginning to be viewed a bit more as being better suited for people who want to go into psychology education, clinical trials, or research.

But ultimately, pursuing a PhD in Psychology prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities in the field of psychology, whether in research, consulting, teaching, or clinical practice.

What Is a PsyD?

Professionals with a PsyD usually use their degrees to work with people who seek therapy, or for more serious clinical interventions for the severely mentally ill in psychiatric hospitals. Knowledge from the studies done in the degree program is applied to providing therapy, rather than continuing research. As opposed to a PhD, a PsyD is a more straightforward, hands-on degree for the practice of psychology.

Is someone with a PsyD a doctor? Short answer: Yes, but not a medical doctor. Anyone with a doctoral-level degree holds the title of doctor, but unless they have a medical degree, they can’t prescribe medication or conduct medical treatments. The same goes for those with a PhD in Psychology.

Earning a PsyD degree puts you on a direct path to practicing psychology in a clinical setting.

Similarities and Differences

The main difference between a PhD in Psychology and PsyD is that a PhD emphasizes research while a PsyD prepares student for practicing psychology.

PsyD programs focus on applying scientific knowledge directly to the practice of psychology, while PhD programs study the theories behind psychology. While PsyD students will have classes in human behavior, therapy, and mental health conditions, PhD candidates will have coursework like research methodology and statistical models. Although, PsyD students will still have some exposure to research and analyzing data, and PhD students will also have plenty of coursework that deals with clinical practice.

Both degrees develop research skills and build knowledge and skill sets that can be applied to either clinical practice or education. While there is overlap, there are also clear differences, like acceptance rates, cost, coursework, and common career outcomes

Things to Consider When Choosing a PhD and PsyD

Before pursing either of these degrees, some important factors need to be considered, like your interests and expectations. They’re not identical degrees, and one might be better suited to a student than the other on an individual basis.

Generally, PhD programs may be more difficult to get into and the program usually lasts between 5 and 8 years. PsyD programs, while still competitive, have a relatively higher acceptance rate and take 1-2 years fewer to complete. While tuition for both programs can be high, PhD students are often offered tuition assistance in exchange for teaching and research assistance.

Is a PsyD better than a PhD? Nobody could really make a case that a PsyD is categorically better than a PhD, but it might be a little more geared to exactly what you want to do with your career. If you really want to focus in on the application of your psychology skills working directly with clients or in a clinical setting with people suffering with more serious mental health problems, a PsyD will give you the focus you’re looking for. If you want a more traditional doctorate experience that also includes a research focus and dissertation, a PhD is the more fitting choice.

Let’s talk money. Realistically, earning potential does factor into which degree program to choose and which path to go down. It’s fair to assume that most people reading this are wondering, do PsyD or PhD make more money? The answer is that there is absolutely nothing to suggest that one or the other will result in making more money. Both PsyD and PhD graduates have the same kind of career prospects, and the same salary potential based on which career path they might take.

But there’s more to this question than just whether one or the other will result in making more money. A PsyD will typically take less time, allowing the holder to start making a salary sooner, but a PhD may have less tuition to pay back if they receive any waivers or stipends for teaching and research during the program. The amount of money either makes will depend on what type of job they choose. If a PhD becomes a tenured professor, clinician, or lead researcher at a university, in private practice, or at a medical facility. If comparing apples to apples, practicing psychologists with a PhD earn slightly more than those with a PsyD, but the difference is small.

The difference between PsyD and PhD is enough to make someone stop and think about which would be best for them, while both are valuable degrees that share similarities and can lead to rewarding careers.

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August 30, 2023

Graduate School in Psychology: PsyD or Psy Phd, Which Is Right for You?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook states, “Overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations,” though the anticipated bump for specialists in clinical and counseling psychology is slightly higher, at a projected 10%.

The publication continues, “About 14,100 openings for psychologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.”

Are you considering graduate school in psychology?

There are master of science degree programs in clinical counseling that provide the education and pathway to become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or a licensed social worker (LSW), both of which are essentially secure careers as mental health counselor professionals. An LPC must work under the supervision of an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor), whereas an LSW must work under the supervision of an LISW (licensed independent social worker). Both the LPC and the LSW have career paths that require a master’s degree from an accredited university, a minimum of 3,000 hours of clinical work supervised by an independent practitioner, and certification with an advanced licensing exam. Once an LPC or LSW has met the criteria to advance in their field and practice without mandatory supervision, they may become an LPCC or LISW counselor and are able to diagnose and treat mental health issues, though they are not able to prescribe medications.

According to a May 2020 Psychology Today article called “Careers in Psychology 2020,” “Master’s-level programs overlap more with undergraduate education. People may pursue a master’s education as an end in itself, to deepen and broaden their knowledge in a certain area.” Some mental health caseworkers pursue a graduate degree through a work incentive to achieve licensing; others do so because they’re ladder climbers and can find themselves – upon completing an accredited master’s program in psychology – eager to keep climbing after encountering the work of a clinical psychologist or clinical psychology researcher.

Do you want a medical degree (MD, DO) or a doctorate or PhD in psychology?

Some people come to clinical psychology after weighing the options: psychiatry versus a doctorate in clinical psychology versus a PhD in clinical psychology.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who completes medical school and pursues a specialization in psychiatry. Following medical school, they complete a residency in psychiatry, which involves specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Psychiatrists often work in clinical settings, hospitals, and private practices. Psychiatrists are qualified to provide talk therapy, but they more commonly focus on medical management of mental health conditions. They can prescribe medication to address psychiatric disorders and might use a combination of therapy and medication for treatment. Their approach to assessment might lean more toward medical and biological factors when determining whether medication is appropriate. Patient care is often managed in tandem with a clinical counselor or therapist who provides therapy and counseling services.

Psychology doctoral programs demand a different level of motivation and commitment than master’s degree programs, and they require one to be quite clear about one’s life and career goals. A PhD in psychology (Psy PhD), a doctorate degree in psychology (PsyD), and a doctorate in education (EdD) in psychology are all pathways to professional counseling careers, though not with the same career goals.

Generally, the application and graduation requirements for EdD and PsyD programs can be less rigorous than those for PhD programs. However, any doctoral-level grad school degree is highly competitive and a means to a rewarding and reputable career.

The EdD appeals to teachers and administrators who will continue to work in higher education and schools. According to Psychology.org , “The Ed.D. remains a popular option for professional educators like teachers, administrators, and counselors wanting to gain more expertise, qualify for an additional license, or move into a leadership position.” The site notes that school psychologists who hope to enter independent clinical practice would benefit more from completing a PsyD.

Choosing between a Psy PhD and a PsyD program depends on one’s career goals, interests, and preferences. Both programs lead to a doctoral degree in psychology, but they have different emphases and outcomes.

If your primary goal is to work as a clinical psychologist providing therapy and counseling, a PsyD program aligns better with your career aspirations. Licensed clinical psychologists work in clinical settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice. They primarily use talk therapy and counseling techniques to help individuals address emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues using various therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, and humanistic therapy, to help clients understand and manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Clinical psychologists are trained in conducting psychological assessments and diagnostic testing to evaluate a person’s mental health and cognitive functioning.

PsyD programs typically take four to six years to complete. They can involve fewer research requirements than PhD programs, and although some PsyD programs do include research activity, the focus is primarily on developing clinical skills and practical experience.

If you are more interested in conducting research , teaching, and potentially pursing an academic career, a PhD program is a better fit. PhD programs in psychology emphasize research and academic scholarship. Students are trained to conduct original research, contribute to the field’s knowledge base, and publish scientific papers. PhD graduates pursue academic careers as professors, researchers, and scholars. They might teach at universities, conduct research, and mentor students. Some work at research institutions, government agencies, and private organizations.

PhD programs are typically longer than PsyD programs, taking five to seven years to complete. They require comprehensive exams and a dissertation on original research.

Either way, know the specific focus of the schools and programs you’re interested in attending. Look for accredited schools with certifications in subspecialities conferred by professional associations, including the American Board of Professional Psychology and the American Psychological Association.

Know the clinical counseling focus and philosophy of a PsyD program and the career aims of those orientations. Some schools have a wide reach in that their curriculum and research cover many tracks, from neuropsychology to multiculturalism, whereas other schools’ research interests are narrow.

Take Rutgers University’s PsyD program, for instance. The program focuses primarily on two tracks, clinical counseling and school psychology. As a result, the research focus is on these areas of specialization, offering research exposure and experience in applied behavioral analysis, autism spectrum disorders, and addiction.

The University of Hartford, on the other hand, is a general program serving students who want a population focus in child and adolescent development and psychology broadly.

Aim to find a school that presents a program, curriculum, service learning, and faculty that are committed to your field of interest. Additionally, for Psy PhD programs, know the research focus and philosophy goals of the professors and their laboratories. PhD research in clinical psychology often falls into the following categories: clinical, counseling, school, cognitive, social, industrial organizational, marriage and the family, behavioral neuroscience psychology, and forensic.

For PsyD programs, know their curriculum orientation within the scope of employment you’ll be seeking, because they often differentiate between adult clinical, child clinical, and health tracks. Many schools have subspecialities and corollary tracks.

Whether the EdD, PsyD, or Psy PhD degree is for you, always seek out an accredited program . Do your school research, looking at specializations, the scope of the educational experience, the orientation to the field and subfields, the expertise of the faculty, graduation rates, and work placement success – and start that application early.

Dr. Mary Mahoney, PhD, is the medical humanities director at Elmira College and has more than 20 years of experience as an advisor and essay reviewer for med school applicants. She is a tenured English professor with an MFA in creative writing from Sarah Lawrence College and a PhD in literature and writing from the University of Houston. For the past 20 years, Mary has served as a grad school advisor and essay reviewer for med school applicants. Want Mary to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

Acing the PsyD Interview: The 3-P Plan
Insider Tips on Applying to PsyD Programs
The “Sizzle Factor”: 5 Tips for Writing PsyD Personal Statements

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PsyD vs. PhD: Which Is Right for Me?

by Celeste Jones, PsyD, ABPP

What’s the difference between a PhD and a PsyD degree in clinical psychology ?

In short, while both degrees afford training opportunities in both research and clinical work, the curriculum is designed differently to address the following emphases:

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is a research doctorate designed to advance the knowledge base of the discipline through research and writing, typically within an academic setting.
The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a professional doctorate designed to train psychologists for clinical practice, including providing psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation in a variety of clinical settings.

View the PsyD program at George Fox University in Oregon

The Field of Clinical Psychology

There are many different career paths and areas of specialty within psychology, all aimed toward scholarship and/or service that bring psychological healing and wellness to a world that desperately needs it. For this reason, there are also many types of psychological training programs, including both clinical and non-clinical specializations.

The study of clinical psychology specifically explores the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of mental and behavioral health concerns of individuals and families , ranging from mild to severe psychopathology. Clinical psychology also includes work in consultation, training, supervision, teaching and research.

Some non-clinical psychology doctoral degrees include PhDs in social psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and experimental psychology, which are designed to develop academic scholars and researchers in these areas.

Within clinical psychology, one of the primary differentiators between training programs is the distinction between PhD (“scientist-practitioner” model) and PsyD (“practitioner-scholar” model) programs. There is considerable overlap between them in both research and clinical training, and both can be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) . To further complicate matters, psychologists from both types of programs are often convincing and passionate about the effectiveness of whichever they endorse.

So let’s consider the general differences between the PhD and PsyD in clinical psychology.

PhD clinical psychology programs most often use a mentor-based model of doctoral training, where a student is matched to a single research mentor who they work most closely with throughout their doctoral training. The PhD mentor is responsible to monitor their student’s academic progress and oversee the completion of their doctoral dissertation, often based on the mentor’s area of research interest.

PhD clinical psychology programs are six years long , starting with two years of course work, traditionally with 20 to 40% of course work in statistics and research. After two years of course work, there are three years of clinical practicum, the last two of which also include completion of a doctoral dissertation.

In PhD programs, there are fewer courses, with more time dedicated to research and scholarship . Year six is dedicated to completion of a year-long, full-time supervised internship. While specific rates vary, generally about half of the individuals who graduate from PhD clinical psychology programs become academics or researchers, and the other half engage in the practice of clinical psychology.

PsyD clinical psychology programs most often involve more course work than the PhD programs , aiming to focus in more depth on clinical skills and foundations needed for clinical practice in a wide range of populations and settings. Most PsyD programs match students to a research mentor to facilitate completion of the doctoral dissertation, but there is less time spent on research in general.

PsyD programs are completed in five years , with the first year dedicated to foundational course work, followed by three years of a combination of course work, clinical practicum and dissertation research. The fifth year is dedicated to completion of a year-long, full-time supervised internship. Clinical training toward service delivery is the emphasis of these training programs, with students gaining enough competency in research to be able to apply research effectively in their clinical practice.

Social Context

As psychologists are aware, social context matters immensely to one’s overall well-being, and graduate training programs in clinical psychology are no exception. Many prospective students wonder what kinds of social support are provided in graduate training programs, and PhD and PsyD programs often have different organizing structures around the training relationships students are involved in.

Traditionally, PhD programs are smaller programs , with a mentor taking one to two new students each training year. Depending on the number of faculty in a program, there may be five to 10 students in each graduating class. With fewer courses and more limited relationships with other faculty, the most important relationship in this kind of program is with the mentor, with a second level of support coming from other students working in the same mentor’s research lab.

PsyD programs are typically a bit larger , with 20 to 50 students per graduating class. Generally, the PsyD programs that are on the lower end of those class sizes are more likely to be “high-touch” programs, emphasizing close-knit faculty-student and community relationships as formative to the developing psychologist. With less time committed to research and more course work with various faculty, PsyD students have the opportunity to develop close relationships with many mentors (research advisor, clinical practicum supervisors, other faculty).

Many PsyD programs also use “cohort model” training, in which an incoming student class generally takes all of their required course work together with the students they entered the program with, an intentional design to promote student relationship-building and the formation of healthy group dynamics that facilitate student learning and development.

Career Opportunities

One of the draws of gaining a doctorate in clinical psychology, whether PhD or PsyD, is the wide variety of career opportunities a clinical psychologist is equipped for.

PhD programs may have more students interested in becoming academic scholars and college faculty members (which do not necessarily require licensure), while PsyD programs may have more students interested in clinical practice and the delivery of psychological services with clients.

Within clinical service, the settings in which psychologists work include:

Private practices
Group practices
Community mental health agencies
Prisons and corrections settings
Psychiatric inpatient treatment
Residential treatment centers
Primary care offices

Their work can include diagnosis, assessment and treatment of common psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression and ADHD, as well as rarer and/or more severe psychopathology such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or personality disorders (e.g., narcissistic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder).

Psychologists are often valued members of interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with primary care physicians, specialists, occupational therapists, social workers, speech and language pathologists, teachers, and other allied health professionals.

Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology

State licensure as a clinical psychologist requires completion of a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. A few states have an option of completing additional supervision and oversight after earning a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology degree in order to attain licensure at the master’s level, but for the most part a doctoral degree is required to practice psychology.

Licensure at the MA level most often requires additional training and supervision. This is called a “non-terminal” master’s degree, which means that the MA curriculum is not designed to meet any particular licensure requirements. Rather, the MA degree is an academic stepping stone to attaining licensure after the subsequent doctoral degree is earned.

Students typically apply to doctoral training programs that include a non-terminal MA degree – such as George Fox University’s PsyD program – directly after earning their bachelor’s degree. Doctoral programs most often include earning an MA as part of the same program.

Financial Cost/Return on Investment

While the meaning and purpose found in a career as a clinical psychologist can be deeply satisfying, it’s also helpful for prospective students to consider salaries and costs of training. For both the PsyD and PhD, the year-long internship in the final year of training is funded, so students only take a minimal number of credits. Let’s consider the costs of the first five years (PhD) or four years (PsyD) of training.

Some PhD programs are tuition-based, but more traditional PhD programs offer grant-funded stipends for the students working in a particular mentor’s research lab. With fewer courses and grant-funded research, funded positions in PhD programs often provide an affordable way to complete a doctorate in clinical psychology. This is important to the ongoing development of career academics and researchers whose salaries are often significantly lower than those in clinical practice, at least until later in their academic career.

While PsyD programs are tuition-based (costing upwards of $100,000 in the end), salaries in clinical practice are higher , making student loan repayment very affordable. A program’s financial aid office often has information on a program’s “default rate,” which is the percentage of students who are unable to successfully pay off their student loans – a number worth looking into prior to investing in a PsyD degree. In addition, there are federal programs like the National Health Service Corps that exchange loan repayment for graduates who work in underserved areas.

Closing Thoughts

The field of clinical psychology is a highly satisfying career, rich in meaning and purpose and providing a wide variety of career opportunities.

Once you decide to become a clinical psychologist, there are many factors to consider in determining whether a PhD or PsyD program would be the best fit. While there are many areas of overlap and both can be accredited by the APA, there are some general differences in the training models based on the training goals and curriculum design and structure.

Prospective students are encouraged to thoughtfully consider these training program attributes in determining the best fit for their graduate training aims.

Celeste Jones is the former program director for George Fox University’s PsyD program in Oregon.

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Psyd vs PhD Degree Differences

Many professionals want to become a psychologist today because job demand in the field is rising and so is the pay. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there will be 19% job growth for all psychologists by 2024. For clinical psychologists, job growth will be 20%. Pay is commensurate with the demand, with a median of $72,580.

To practice on their own and earn the highest income, however, psychologists must have a doctorate. A doctorate in psychology is a post-graduate degree, but it comes in two forms: the Psy.D. and the Ph.D.

Many aspiring doctoral students often apply to many psychology programs with the hope of just getting into one of them; many programs are competitive, especially in clinical psychology.

Some students may not do the research that they should to learn about the differences between the Psy.D. and the Ph.D. Below is an overview of each program.

There are many Ph.D. in psychology programs but many are quite competitive to enter. They are largely research and academic degrees, so are often best for people who want that type of career path. However, some Ph.D. programs also provide very good training for professionals who want to work in a clinical environment, too.

Often ideal for the professional who wants to perform academic research
Research focused and involves a dissertation with at least a year of research
Also can prepare you for clinical settings
Career path can be teaching, forensic psychology, researcher, clinical practice

The Psy.D. was developed in the 1960s as a possible alternative to a Ph.D. It is usually obtained by students who only want to practice in psychology with patients, and not spend time on research and academia. This is a mostly clinical practice degree. Thus, a Psy.D. degree has less research involved, as well as few statistics classes, so it may take less time than a Ph.D.

Ideal for hands on students who want to practice psychology only
Strong clinical psychology focus
Prepares students to work in many clinical settings
The main career path is clinical psychology

One thing to think about with a Psy.D. is that it is a newer degree, so in some eyes, it might be as recognizable in terms of status or quality. The Ph.D. of course has been around for a long time, and has a higher level of recognition.

Also, some experts note that if you decide on a Psy.D. and then decide you would rather work in research, you could be at a disadvantage. It is important to decide early on what your career path will be and stick to it.

Some may assume that one degree is better than the other, but this is not the case. Which one you select is more about what your personal career goals are.

The Importance of Your Psychology Career Goals

Making the decision between these two degrees is vital because each takes anywhere from three to five years to earn, and both cost a great deal of money. Thus, the first thing to do as you consider both degrees is to think about where you want your career to be five years or so after graduation.

Where you want to be working after you earn your doctorate will go a long way towards determining which degree is for you. Generally, most Ph.D. programs in psychology are designed for students who want to spend their career doing research and working at the university level as a professor or instructor.

Psy.D. programs, on the other hand, generally prepare you to practice as a psychologist in a given specialty. However, it is worth noting that there are now some Psy.D. programs that do offer some research opportunities.

So, most Psy.D. programs are focused on practice, and most Ph.D. programs are focused on research and academia. But there are exceptions, and you should look carefully at every program you are considering to see what the exact focus is at that university.

Financial Needs

Another notable consideration as you think about a Psy.D. or Ph.D. degree is finances. Generally, Psy.D. programs are more expensive than Ph.D. programs. Many Psy.D. students often graduate with more loans.

One of the reasons is that some Psy.D. programs are run by for-profit universities that sometimes charge higher tuition. Meanwhile, many Ph.D. program will reduce or waive tuition and provide post-graduate students with fellowships and stipends.

Faculty members in Ph.D. in psychology programs get grants to do research. Therefore, they can pay their students to help with research. However, experts caution that you should look at each program – whether it is Psy.D. or Ph.D. – in its entirety. There are some Psy.D. programs that may well provide funding for your education.

Online Doctoral Degree Options in Psychology – Ph.D.

Northcentral University is our recommendation if you wish to earn an online Ph.D. in psychology. This program has been designed due to a growing need for more clinical psychologists, which results in a growing need for more educational programs. In this four year program, you will be able to improve your critical thinking abilities, expand your knowledge base in clinical psychology, so that you can evaluate many different psychological problems.

You will be prepared to excel in this online Ph.D. program. The program includes experiential learning with case studies, real world scenarios, and even real life patient situations. You also will be able to learn a huge amount of information from your highly experienced professors.

As you move through this accredited program, you will become more skilled in conducting and evaluating research. Also, you will learn how to prepare the highest level professional communication in many different media.

Further, you will be able to critically evaluate complex psychological theories, and design new strategies to improve people from a psychological perspective.

Upon graduation, you will be able to demonstrate skills in these general areas:

High degree of competency in research writing
Post-graduate level of ability in research methods
High level of skill in statistics
High level of computer competency

This program also allows you to focus on the following specializations:

Health psychology
Industrial and organizational psychology
Mental health policy and practice
Trauma and disaster relief

We recommend overall that you very carefully consider your career goals and interests in psychology so that you are certain that you are pursuing the correct doctorate.

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PsyD vs. PhD: Which One is for Me?

A doctoral degree is the pinnacle of education in the field of psychology. Although some psychology positions require only a master’s degree , others require completing a doctoral degree in psychology. Psychology is a field that’s attractive for many reasons. It pays well, has good job growth, and puts individuals in a position where they can help people who are going through a rough patch.

Some students choose the doctoral degree because they want to take their education to the highest level. Aspiring psychologists often have the dilemma of choosing a PsyD vs. PhD. How do they differ? Which one is better? Which one best fits your career goals? You’ll get all the answers you need right here.

First, let’s explain what each degree is:

What is a Ph.D. in Psychology?

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is a doctoral degree and the degree most commonly chosen by someone interested in working in the field of psychology according to the American Psychological Association . Ph.D. degrees are generally offered at both public and private universities.

The Ph.D. degree is ideal for the individual who is interested in working as a licensed psychologist treating patients and also those who may want careers in research or teaching. Forensic psychology, treating patients in a clinical setting, and teaching are just a few of the possibilities available to graduates of a Ph.D. program.

Graduates may also find work counseling in schools, working in health sciences, or consulting in business organizations. The Ph.D. is the ideal degree for students who want to gain more knowledge through data collection, experimentation, and applying analytical and statistical techniques.

Students who want a career in teaching psychology will also find a Ph.D. in psychology a good fit. Research is a big part of the Ph.D. program, and students may be required to complete a dissertation showing their research abilities.

What is a Psy.D.?

The Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), came into existence long after the Ph.D. was around and was created as an alternative to the Ph.D. The Psy.D. is aimed at students who are interested in working as a psychologist with less emphasis on research. The Psy.D. can be found in professional schools of psychology or independent graduate schools.

This program is aimed at preparing students for jobs where they can apply their knowledge of psychology into services for people, couples, organizations, and various groups. Students in a Psy.D. program are typically required to write a dissertation or thesis. They may also be required to demonstrate the ways psychological research can be applied to human behavior using qualitative or quantitative methods.

Similarities and Differences between a Ph.D. and Psy.D.

When choosing between the Ph.D. and the Psy.D ., it’s important to understand that one is not necessarily better than the other. On an individual basis, one might be a better fit than the other based on the individual’s career goals. When choosing a doctoral program, each student should pay close attention to the courses that are offered in each one so he or she will have the education that matches what they’ll need for the career they want to pursue. The PsyD vs. PhD dilemma may be much easier to solve if a student actually knows the similarities and differences of both degrees.

Both the Ph.D. and the Psy.D. will prepare a student to obtain the certification required to become a licensed psychologist. They will both prepare the student to take the licensing examination.
However, the Ph.D. is geared towards students who are interested in research, academia, and working in clinical practice, while the Psy.D. is for students who want to work with patients in a hands-on manner without having to deal with performing research or teaching.
The Psy.D. is mainly for students who want to become licensed psychologists and work directly with patients in a clinical setting. The Ph.D., on the other hand, offers many more career options, including teaching, forensic psychology, scientific researcher, teacher, and clinical practice in a clinical setting.
Because the Ph.D. is a competitive program, the Psy.D. degree program can be completed much quicker.
The Ph.D. and the Psy.D. have very similar admission requirements.
The Psy.D. program has fewer statistics and research courses than the Ph.D.
The biggest difference between the two degrees is in the acceptance rate. The acceptance rate for the Ph.D. is 10-15 percent while the acceptance rate for the Psy.D. is around 40 percent. This is a big reason why the Psy.D. can be completed more quickly. The Psy.D. program can be completed in four to six years, while the Ph.D. program takes five to eight years to finish.
Students in the Psy.D. program may be required to complete a dissertation, but it’s mandatory in the Ph.D. program.
Both programs require students to complete an APA-approved internship.
Students in the Ph.D. program often get their tuition waived and also get assistance in the form of a stipend to help with teaching and research. Although students in the Psy.D. program may receive assistance, this is generally not the case.
Regardless of which doctoral degree program the student chooses, he or she will need to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) in order to work as a psychologist.

Admission Requirements

Although there may be some minor differences in the admission requirements for the Ph.D. degree and the Psy.D., they are actually very similar and include the following.

Must have a master’s degree.
A bachelor’s degree may be acceptable if the applicant has extensive work experience.
Must provide the school with a writing sample along with transcripts from all colleges and universities attended by the student.
Must have a GPA of at least 3.0.
Must have three to five letters of recommendation.
Must present a personal statement of intent.
Must provide samples of academic research papers completed in the past.
Must take and pass the Graduate Records Examination (GRE) or an equivalent exam.
Must show proof of health insurance and current immunizations.
Must submit an interview and take a comprehensive qualifying examination.

Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs are both very competitive in nature, so students are advised to apply as early as possible and complete the admission requirements quickly. GPA scores are very important for admission to both programs. Many colleges offer psychology doctoral degrees online, but currently, the APA does not accredit online-only doctoral programs, so you will need to find one that is hybrid (both online and in-person) in order to have a fully accredited program.

The coursework in a doctoral degree program may be quite similar in both the Ph.D. program and the Psy.D. program, with slight variances depending on the type of psychology you are looking to work in. For instance, school psychologist students will take courses in psychology and education because their line of work will require knowledge of those two areas.

Psychology doctoral students also spend a lot of time performing research and writing dissertations based on their research findings. Students can also choose courses that coincide with any area of concentration they choose to take. Other course topics found in a psychology program include:

Ethical and Legal Issues in Psychology
Dissertation Research
Statistics and Research Techniques
Developmental Psychology
Human Growth and Development
Behavioral Neuroscience
Clinical Psychology

Job Prospects and Salary

Job prospects and salary potential are very good for graduates of psychology doctoral degree programs. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that licensed psychologists could expect job growth of three percent between 2019 and 2029. While this percent may not seem large, it equates to about 5,700 new psychologists created by 2029.

The increasing number of people choosing to see psychologists as well as the number of students seeing psychologists keeps these professionals in demand. Job growth also varies by the type of psychologist as does wage potential. Some types of psychologists may experience higher job growth.

Although applicants may find work with a master’s degree, some types of psychologists require a doctoral degree. Psychologists with a doctoral degree typically see better career opportunities and earn better wages. Here are the average yearly salaries nationwide for a few different types of psychologists as well as the lowest and highest wages these professionals earn across the nation according to a May 2020 wage report by the BLS .

The wages psychologists earn vary by not just your degree level but also your experience, your employer and the location where you work. Of these factors, location plays a big part in wage determination. Wages can vary substantially from one state to another.

Highest and Lowest Wages by Location

Clinical, Counseling and School Psychologists earn the highest wages in California where the wages were $115,830. These professionals earned the lowest wage of $55,000 in West Virginia.
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists earned the highest wages in California where the wages were $ 119,100. I/O psychologists working in Texas earned the lowest wages of $59,160.
Psychologists , all other, earned the highest wages in California where the average wages were $124,910. These same psychologists in West Virginia earned the lowest wage of $37,430.
Psychology teachers earn the highest wages in California where the average mean wages were $121,110. Psychology teachers in Oklahoma earned the lowest wage of $56,080.

Earning a terminal degree in the field of psychology is the ultimate reward for years of education and training.

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PhD vs PsyD

If you are looking to pursue a career in psychology – whether as a researcher, professor or psychologist – there are many different career trajectories that you can choose from. When it comes to doctoral level options in front of you in the field of psychology, there are two main ways that you can choose from. The first of these is a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree, while the other is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the field – which is psychology in this context. It can be quite confusing when you are trying to pick one path here, mostly because of the similarities and the differences between the two degrees.

To understand what is a PhD vs PsyD degree, it is important to get a brief introduction to both the degrees, so that the major differences can be highlighted, showing which ones suit your needs better. Keep reading to get a better understanding of the two degrees in the field!

As a person looking to build a career in psychology, you can also choose to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the field of your preference. While PhDs are not restricted to the field of psychology – you can pursue one in any area of interest or expertise – it is a great way to take your education to the next level, especially if you have an interest in the research aspects of psychology. While this course may take longer for you to complete, there are many different benefits that you can accrue by choosing to go this way. Keep reading to understand the PhD vs PsyD debate by looking at the features of the former.

Average Time It Takes to Complete

On average, a PhD degree will take you longer than a PsyD degree – which is about four to six years. Here, you will be required to spend approximately five to seven years to complete the degree. It is a more research-heavy degree, with a compulsory dissertation submission and more intensive ground research requirements. You will also be required to study statistics and teaching methodologies, and complete a one-year APA-accredited internship.

Requirements to Enroll

If you are looking to enroll in a PhD program, you will be required to have a master’s degree – though some programs take bachelor’s – along with a high GPA and good scores on tests like the GRE. In addition to this, you will be required to produce letters of recommendation and essays. The acceptance rate of these programs is significantly lower than the acceptance rate of PsyD programs.

Average Cost

The tuition fee associated with PhD programs can range between $7,000 and over $40,000, depending on the school and program. However, the good part about these programs is that you tend to cover a huge chunk of this fee with the help of financial aid. Most programs waive the tuition and also provide stipends to sustain the students through this process, which allows PhD candidates to graduate without any debt.

Average Salaries

There is no set salary for people who have a PhD in psychology as the figure can differ from position to position. They do, however, have an advantage over PsyD degree holders as they do not have to worry about paying off student debts in most cases. On average, a person with a doctorate in psychology can earn over $100,000 a year.

PsyD Degree

If you choose to pursue a PsyD degree, you must be prepared to spend about four to six years completing it. It is an intensive, high-level course that requires a lot of practice and application of technical knowledge of the subject. You may be required to complete an APA-accredited internship, along with a doctoral project in the form of a dissertation. You will only receive a degree once all the requirements are fulfilled.

The requirements differ from university to university but there are some commonalities amongst all admission requirements. For example, while some universities may accept you after a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree is an essential prerequisite for most schools. In addition to this, you must have a high GPA, good scores on tests like the GRE, letters of recommendation and essays. It may be helpful to keep in mind that the acceptance rate for PsyD courses is higher than the rate for PhD programs.

If you are looking to pursue a PsyD degree, you need to be prepared to pay a high tuition fee. On average, a PsyD degree will cost you between $25,000 and $30,000 for one year, without all the costs associated with living. While this degree can be finished earlier than a PhD, you may find yourself swimming in debt because of the lack of funding that is associated with these degrees. The extra money that you make in this period will go towards paying back student debts.

With a PsyD degree, you have a wide range of career options available, for example, counseling, social work, consulting and human services. The salary that you take home will depend on your job profile at the moment. For example , industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average of $85,000, while clinical, school and counseling psychologists earn an average of less than $70,000. Others may earn upwards of $90,000 per year.

After going through this primer about the differences between a PhD in psychology and a PsyD degree, you will find yourself better equipped to understand which of the two paths are best for you in terms of qualification and realizing your full potential. The final decision needs to be made on the basis of your final career goal and monetary aspirations.

Comparing the differences between MD vs. PhD vs. professional doctorate

By Michael Feder

Collage image with books, sculptures, xray, and hands

This article has been vetted by University of Phoenix's editorial advisory committee. Read more about our editorial process.

Reviewed by Marc Booker, PhD, Vice Provost, Strategy

At a glance

MD is the abbreviation for Doctor of Medicine and PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy. These are two types of doctoral degrees in addition to professional doctorates.
An MD is a doctoral degree for medical professionals, while a PhD is an academic degree focused on original research. Somewhat similar to a PhD are professional doctorates, which focus on applying practical research to problems in workplaces or communities.
A professional or practice-based doctorate (EdD, DBA, etc.) can be medical, and others are for scholar-practitioners in disciplines like education, business or psychology.
University of Phoenix does not offer MD or PhD programs, but students can earn a doctorate in business, nursing, education or healthcare that allows them to build upon their industry expertise. Learn more about the differences between these degree programs and if one of the five doctoral programs at University of Phoenix is right for you !

What is a doctorate? Breaking down the three types

Some people might confuse an MD (Doctor of Medicine) with a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) , and vice versa. While both an MD and a PhD are prestigious degrees near the top of the academic ladder , they each have a different meaning and come with very different requirements .

Different still from both of those degrees are professional doctorates, which allow industry professionals to translate their education and experience into credibility and leadership through research. Professional doctorates have similar requirements to PhDs, such as a dissertation and residency, but focus on the application of research and professional growth over original research.

Upon graduation, those who have earned any of these three degrees can call themselves a “doctor,” but the path to a degree, the purpose behind it and its applications vary based on the choice. MD graduates want to work in medicine and healthcare. PhDs want to bring new knowledge and research to the world. A practice-based doctoral graduate wants to grow in their professional expertise. (If the last one sounds like you, University of Phoenix can help!)

Keep reading to learn more about these doctoral programs and which is right for you.

What does MD stand for?

MD is an abbreviation for Doctor of Medicine and identifies a medical practitioner who has completed undergraduate studies and four years of medical school. An MD program teaches medical students about the human body and diseases through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical labs.

Several types of physicians might have this degree, depending on their area of study. For example, medical practitioners with an MD degree might become a medical doctor and potentially specialize in dermatology, cardiovascular disease, family medicine, oncology, pediatrics, neurology or preventive medicine. As you can see, this degree can lead to a variety of career paths , depending on which specialty interests you and what your medical education is.

Learn more about online doctoral degrees at University of Phoenix.

How to earn an MD

Becoming a Doctor of Medicine requires a significant investment of time and money, but the reward can be well worth it. Before medical school, you’ll need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT ® ) and earn a passing score. You’ll also need to build a portfolio of coursework and experience to help you gain admittance to medical school.

Medical school typically takes students four years to complete. You’ll learn the latest techniques and approaches for patient assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Medical schools commonly provide a combination of classroom, research and clinical experience . You’ll work alongside peers and healthcare professionals as you develop skills in general medicine.

You’ll choose a field to specialize in during your final year of medical school. Students have more than 120 options to choose from when specializing, including primary care, pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency medicine and family medicine .

After graduating, you’ll complete residency training to further develop skills in your specialty. Residency typically lasts three to seven years, depending on the field you’ve selected. During the residency portion of your education, you’ll treat patients under the supervision of more experienced physicians.

Even after you begin to practice as an MD, the educational portion of your career never stops . As practices change, patient needs evolve and research continues, MDs benefit from ongoing education to stay current.

What does PhD stand for?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy , is a doctoral degree that recognizes graduates who have completed a full postsecondary program. Students can earn a PhD in more fields than philosophy. After completing the necessary coursework, original research and hands-on experience, you can earn a PhD in fields like science, the humanities and engineering.

Earning a PhD can help unlock a wide range of potential career opportunities. Computer engineers, research scientists, statisticians, healthcare administrators, professors, chemists and other careers commonly require a PhD degree, in addition to appropriate undergraduate study.

How to earn a PhD

Becoming a PhD is also a serious commitment that requires an investment of time, money and energy .

Here is what’s typically required to become a PhD:

Complete a bachelor’s degree in your field
Complete a master’s degree in an appropriate field
Pass any program entrance exams
Fulfill coursework, research and hands-on lab requirements in your program
Finalize and defend your dissertation as a doctoral candidate (unless your program specifies otherwise)

It’s important to note that many PhD programs have different requirements , prerequisites and parameters for students. Check with your preferred institution for a more detailed explanation of these requirements.

What is a professional doctorate?

While some professional or practice-based doctorate programs are medical, others are designed for professionals in other fields . These programs are meant for scholar-practitioners in disciplines like education, business or psychology. One of the key differences between this degree and a PhD is the focus on applying research to a professional setting rather than conducting theoretical and research-focused studies. Often, programs are differentiated as academic versus professional.

Examples of doctoral degrees are Doctor of Education, Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Business Administration. Each of these programs focuses on a specific discipline and applying research in those areas to a professional setting.

How to earn a doctorate

While practitioner doctoral programs teach different skills, they all share common requirements. You’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in your field and sometimes a master’s degree, depending on program requirements.

After completing the necessary coursework and research, students also typically need to finish a supervised thesis and defend their dissertation or capstone project-specific coursework, research and hands-on labs alongside other students in the same field. However, this will depend on the specific program and its requirements.

What does the title “Dr.” really mean?

The term “doctor” or “Dr.” is commonly used today to describe a wide variety of occupations. Students who complete a doctoral degree can earn the title of “Dr.” even though they earned their credentials in a non-medical field like education or business management.

While a variety of professionals can earn a doctorate, the term is often still reserved for medical practitioners . In conventional use, doctors typically refer to medical physicians . However, it is appropriate to use “Dr.” if you graduated from any of the three programs discussed above.

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What is doctoral candidacy?

Practitioner doctoral degree programs at university of phoenix.

While University of Phoenix (UOPX) does not have MD or PhD programs, it does offer several professional doctoral degrees that can be earned completely online. Students might choose the UOPX programs because classes are flexible and offered online, and because of the University’s unique “ Scholar-Practitioner-Leader model .”

If you are curious about a doctoral degree, the following programs are available at UOPX:

Doctor of Business Administration — This doctorate can help you gain strategic vision and skills to position yourself as a business leader. It explores how to solve organizational problems, how to design and conduct research studies, how to introduce innovative business ideas to the industry and more.
Doctor of Management — This doctorate equips you with critical thinking skills to find creative solutions to complex problems.
Doctor of Education — This doctoral program prepares you to use analytical, critical and innovative thinking to improve performance and solve complex problems in education.
Doctor of Health Administration — If you’re a health professional who is seeking greater responsibility in shaping the future of the health sector, this doctorate can help you meet the challenges inherent to today’s healthcare landscape, including economic fluctuations, burgeoning patient needs and industry-changing legislation.
Doctor of Nursing Practice — This doctorate is designed for working nurses who require a doctorate for advanced practice or nurses who desire their terminal degree. It does not prepare students for professional certification or state licensure as a nurse or as an advanced practice nurse.

These doctoral studies are only some of the many options for professionals who want to gain the highest academic credentials in their fields. Doctoral programs offer significant benefits to program graduates, including newly developed skills , insight into field trends, hands-on research opportunities and leadership capabilities .

Completing a doctoral program is also a strong indication to employers that you’re serious about your career and your field. With so many options for advanced study, these programs are available for most major fields. Even if you have already completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in your discipline, a doctorate lends further credibility to your reputation and can help prepare you for a leadership position .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Feder is a content marketing specialist at University of Phoenix, where he researches and writes on a variety of topics, ranging from healthcare to IT. He is a graduate of the Johns Hopkins University Writing Seminars program and a New Jersey native!

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Psy.D. Vs. Ph.D.: Which Is The Right Fit For You?
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A Psy.D. degree prepares students for careers as clinical psychologists while a Ph.D. trains students in research and teaching. The Psy.D. embraces the practitioner-scholar model and applies psychological science to individuals and groups while the Ph.D. emphasizes analytical research in the field. Psy.D. students work as clinical psychologists ...
PsyD Vs PhD Programs
Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology) often focuses on research, theory, and teaching. While both can lead to therapeutic roles, their primary goals differ: PsyD trains clinicians, while PhD prepares researchers and academics. PsyD programs are much newer. While Ph.D. programs in psychology date back to the late 1800s, PsyD programs weren ...
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PsyD Vs PhD At A Glance. Choosing between a PsyD and a PhD is a matter of personal choice, and your answer depends upon your personal goals. Though both doctor of psychology degrees provide you with the education, training and credentials to put you at the pinnacle of the field, there are important differences, including:
PsyD vs. PhD Programs (Differences & Similarities)
Learn about the main differences and similarities between PsyD and PhD programs in psychology, including admission requirements, program length, courses, funding, and career options. Find out which degree is better for your goals and preferences.
Differences Between PsyD vs PhD Degree
Most PsyD programs accept a larger percentage of applicants than Ph.D. programs, which is partially due to the more intense academic focus most Ph.D. programs have. In its 2016 report, the American Psychological Association estimated PhD programs in psychology had an overall acceptance rate of 13.3%.
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*Exception: A Ph.D. in clinical psychology prepares you to work with patients as a clinician. Getting a Psy.D. Degree. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), the Psy.D. degree emerged in the 1970s as a Ph.D. alternative. It was designed as advanced training for the clinical application of psychology in professional practice as opposed to a path for research and academia.
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Learn the key differences between a PsyD and a PhD in psychology, including their focuses, goals, durations, and career paths. A PsyD is more clinical and practical, while a PhD is more research-oriented and academic.
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A PhD in Psychology is a research-oriented degree that prepares students for academia, while a PsyD is a clinical-oriented degree that prepares students for practice. Both degrees require doctoral-level training and can lead to licensure, but have different coursework, duration, and cost.
What's the Difference Between a PhD in Psychology and a PsyD?
Like a PhD in Psychology, the Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) prepares students to practice psychology in a wide range of clinical settings. A PsyD, however, focuses more on clinical practice and less on research. As a result, this degree requires fewer research and statistics courses and thus takes less time. PhD in Psychology.
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Doctoral project. Although both programs can require a doctoral project, they might vary slightly. Psy.D. doctoral projects might focus on clinical knowledge, while Ph.D. doctoral projects have a more traditional, research-based dissertation defense. Either way, you're likely to prepare a presentation for a committee to prove your knowledge ...
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A PhD in psychology (Psy PhD), a doctorate degree in psychology (PsyD), and a doctorate in education (EdD) in psychology are all pathways to professional counseling careers, though not with the same career goals. Generally, the application and graduation requirements for EdD and PsyD programs can be less rigorous than those for PhD programs.
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PsyD clinical psychology programs most often involve more course work than the PhD programs, aiming to focus in more depth on clinical skills and foundations needed for clinical practice in a wide range of populations and settings. Most PsyD programs match students to a research mentor to facilitate completion of the doctoral dissertation, but ...
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Taking a PsyD vs PhD in Psychology can lead to different opportunities for psychology graduates. Graduates who complete masters in forensic psychology online, for instance, can go on to take either of these advanced degrees.Since the demand for psychologists is expected to increase by up to 6% from 2021 to 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022), having an advanced degree can always be an ...
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However, the most important difference between the two degrees is that the Ph.D. program focuses more on research, whereas the Psy.D. focuses more on clinical training. In addition, most Psy.D. graduate students receive more training in psychological testing than do Ph.D. students. A Psy.D. prepares the student to work in a variety of clinical ...
GoodTherapy
Acceptance rates for PsyD programs tend to be higher than those for PhD programs. About 40% of people applying are accepted. On average, a PsyD program takes slightly less time to complete than a ...
Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.: What's the Difference
The Primary Difference Between Ph.D. and Psy.D. Degrees. While both psychology programs can lead to a successful career in therapy, they still differ in training programs and career paths. Here are the primary differences: Focus of Study. Like most Ph.D. programs, a degree in psychology emphasizes
Psyd vs PhD Degree Differences
Another notable consideration as you think about a Psy.D. or Ph.D. degree is finances. Generally, Psy.D. programs are more expensive than Ph.D. programs. Many Psy.D. students often graduate with more loans. One of the reasons is that some Psy.D. programs are run by for-profit universities that sometimes charge higher tuition.
The Difference Between a Ph.D. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psych
The main difference between a Psy.D. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology is the specific focus and application of each program. In summary, there are several key differences between a Ph.D. and a Psy.D. The most prominent difference is each program's focus. If you seek a career in academia, a Ph.D. may be right for you.
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The PsyD vs. PhD dilemma may be much easier to solve if a student actually knows the similarities and differences of both degrees. Similarity Both the Ph.D. and the Psy.D. will prepare a student to obtain the certification required to become a licensed psychologist.
PhD vs PsyD
Keep reading to understand the PhD vs PsyD debate by looking at the features of the former. Average Time It Takes to Complete. On average, a PhD degree will take you longer than a PsyD degree - which is about four to six years. Here, you will be required to spend approximately five to seven years to complete the degree. It is a more research ...
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For example, a PhD in Counseling Psychology prepares graduate students for advanced clinical practice. Additionally, it equips students with the skills to conduct research, contribute to the field's theoretical frameworks, and pursue academic careers where research and teaching are integral components. Master's vs PhD focus and coursework
MD vs. PhD vs. Professional Doctorate Comparison
Computer engineers, research scientists, statisticians, healthcare administrators, professors, chemists and other careers commonly require a PhD degree, in addition to appropriate undergraduate study. How to earn a PhD. Becoming a PhD is also a serious commitment that requires an investment of time, money and energy.

What are the Key Differences Between a PsyD and Ph.D Program in Psychology?

PsyD Vs Ph.D.

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Differences in Duration, Core Subjects, and Electives

Differences in Learning Outcomes

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Is a PsyD as Good as a PhD?

Which is Better? A PhD or PsyD?

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Introduction

What is a PsyD and a PhD?

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What is the Difference Between a PsyD and PhD Program?

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