[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A Ph.D in psychology prepares graduates for careers as licensed psychologists, research psychologists, and psychology professors. Doctoral students examine human behavior, social interactions, and mental health treatments. The degree also incorporates practical training through a supervised internship or practicum, helping students develop the skills needed for careers in psychology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/psychology-degree/”]psychology degree[/hen-ui-link], graduates can work many different [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/field-of-degree/psychology/psychology-field-of-degree.htm”]psychology jobs[/hen-ui-link]. For example, psychologists earn a [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm/”]median annual salary[/hen-ui-link] of over $92,740, and a doctorate meets the requirements for most careers in this field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Our list includes the top psychology programs offering some online coursework. It is important to note that while several doctorate in psychology programs offer online courses, there are no fully online psychology doctoral programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). Thus, rather than ranking schools, we list these programs alphabetically to help prospective applicants find the program that best matches their needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This article also explores the differences between Ph.D. and Psy.D. degrees, common courses and specialization options, and careers for graduates who earn doctorates in psychology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Doctoral Psychology Programs Available Online[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid]

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”degree-overview”]What Is an Online Ph.D. in Psychology?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctoral degrees in psychology cannot be conducted completely online. However, some programs do make some coursework available to learners online, helping them complete their graduate studies from anywhere.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The typical curricula for a Ph.D. in psychology emphasizes research and prepares graduates for academic and research roles. Doctoral students take courses in research design and methods, psychology statistics, and cognitive development. Ph.D. programs also offer specialized coursework in neuroscience and affective science.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A Ph.D. in psychology builds strong research and analytical skills. In addition to coursework, each doctoral student must pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research within their specialization. The degree culminates in an original doctoral dissertation that contributes to the field of psychology. After graduation, professionals with Ph.D. degrees in psychology typically work as psychology professors or researchers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a Ph.D in psychology typically takes 5-7 years, depending on the program and whether the doctoral student completes an internship. Applicants generally need a master’s degree in psychology and a strong GPA to gain admission. Some Ph.D. programs in psychology offer fellowships and other forms of funding for doctoral students.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-is-psyd”]What Is an Online Psy.D. in Psychology?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As with the online Ph.D. in psychology, an online Psy.D. in psychology refers to a doctorate in psychology program where some but not all coursework is offered online. A Psy.D. degree trains graduates for clinical roles and licensure as psychologists. Common courses include psychology research methods, psychopharmacology, and psychological testing. Doctoral students also examine research in evidence-based practice. Online Psy.D. programs also incorporate supervised internships to strengthen clinical skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Within a Psy.D. program, graduate students focus on specialty areas such as counseling psychology, [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-child-adolescent-psychology/”]child psychology[/hen-ui-link], or behavioral psychology. After completing coursework requirements and passing a comprehensive examination, doctoral candidates conduct clinical research in their specialization areas. Degree-seekers analyze clinical problems or examine topics based on original research, then write research-based dissertations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a Psy.D. typically takes 4-6 years for full-time students. Some programs offer accelerated or part-time enrollment options. Applicant often need a master’s in psychology to gain admission to a Psy.D. program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What’s the Difference Between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in Psychology?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At the doctoral level, psychology offers Psy.D. and Ph.D. degrees. The two pathways offer different coursework and prepare graduates for different careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A Psy.D. emphasizes clinical training for careers in psychology, while a Ph.D. focuses on research and academic training. Licensed psychologists who work directly with patients often hold Psy.D. degrees, while psychology professors typically have Ph.D. degrees. In addition, a Ph.D. typically takes more time than a Psy.D.; while a Psy.D. can take as little as four years, a Ph.D. often requires 5-7 years.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When comparing Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs, prospective psychologists should consider their professional goals. Those seeking research or academic positions may prefer a Ph.D., while those considering careers as licensed psychologists should pursue Psy.D. degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing an Online Doctoral Psychology Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When choosing a partially online doctoral program, prospective students must weigh several factors. For many, program cost, specialization options, and program length rank among the most important concerns.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ph.D. and Psy.D. degrees prepare psychologists for different career paths, so applicants should also consider which degree aligns best with their goals. Candidates should also consider enrollment options, course delivery methods, internship options, and tuition discounts when evaluating partially online doctorates in psychology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]By examining these factors, future psychologists can ensure that they find the best fit for their unique needs and career aspirations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”accreditation”]Accreditation for Online Psychology Degree Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective applicants should always research program and university accreditation when choosing a partially online doctorate in psychology. [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]Accredited programs[/hen-ui-link] follow best practices for educating psychologists, and only graduates of APA-accredited programs qualify for licensure as psychologists. Applicants should also research other state licensure requirements before choosing a program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-else”]What Else Can I Expect From a Doctoral Psychology Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctoral-level psychology students take courses in areas like counseling psychology, evidence-based practice, human development, and psychopharmacology. These courses build advanced knowledge and skills in psychology. Doctoral students often further specialize their training by choosing concentrations like clinical psych, school psychology, or developmental psychology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After completing coursework requirements, doctoral candidates must pass examinations and meet any internship requirements. Most programs also require a research-based doctoral dissertation in the candidate’s specialization.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Common Courses for an Online Doctorate in Psychology[/hen-ui-heading]

• Child and Adolescent Therapy: In this class, psychology students strengthen their counseling and treatment skills for children and adolescents. The coursework emphasizes clinical practice and diagnostic approaches for professionals in clinical, child, counseling, and school psychology.
• Clinical Supervision and Consultation: Students practice their supervision skills and learn how to oversee less experienced workers in the field. The course also trains psychology graduates for consultation and mediation roles.
• Community Psychology and Social Justice: The course examines psychology during times of social change. Learners explore social justice in a mental health context and its impact on society more broadly.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Doctoral students examine current research in psychology to identify applications in clinical practice. The course covers topics like evaluating evidence and applying practical research.
• Intellectual and Personality Testing: Psychology students learn to administer and interpret personality assessments. The course covers the theoretical foundations of personality testing and how to perform clinical diagnoses based on those tests.
• Psychopharmacology: In this course, doctoral students learn about the human body and its interactions with drugs. The course emphasizes mental health needs, pharmacological approaches to treating mental health issues, and drug abuse and addiction.

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Psychology Specializations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Clinical Psychology”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A clinical psychology specialty emphasizes mental healthcare and research-based practice. Within clinical psychology, doctoral students specialize in demographics, like child psychology and geriatric mental health. The specialty trains learners to apply psychology research in diverse clinical settings.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Developmental Psychology”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Developmental psychology examines human growth and development across the lifespan. Doctoral students in this specialty conduct research on childhood development, social and emotional development, and information processing. The specialty prepares graduates for careers in research and academia.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”School Psychology”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A school psychology specialty emphasizes mental health in young learners. Doctoral students explore learning and behavior, including challenges to academic and social development. These psychologists work with children, families, and schools to help students thrive in education.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Social Psychology”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social psychology examines individual behavior in social settings. This specialty focuses on human interactions and their impact on people’s beliefs and feelings. Social psychologists can apply their skills in several settings, including workplaces.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No psychology doctorate program is fully online, but earning a partially online doctorate in psychology takes around five years, depending on the program. Many Ph.D. programs require at least five years to complete coursework, research, and a dissertation, and some also require an internship. A Psy.D. program typically takes 4-6 years, including internship requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some programs offer accelerated or part-time options, which can change degree timelines. Enrollees may also complete coursework faster through a self-paced, asynchronous model, though only online courses are offered asynchronously. Because the length varies, prospective doctoral students should be sure to research prospective programs’ requirements and enrollment options before applying.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”career-info”]Psychology Jobs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a doctorate in psychology, graduates can pursue careers as psychologists and psychology professors. In these career paths, psychologists can conduct research, educate students, and provide clinical services. A psychology doctorate also prepares graduates for supervisory roles, such as healthcare executive.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/psychology-degree-jobs/”]psychology careers[/hen-ui-link] include school or educational psychologist, industrial-organizational (I/O) psychologist, and clinical social worker. This section explores common psychology jobs, including the earning potential, licensure requirements, and projected job growth for each career.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Postsecondary Psychology Teachers”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Postsecondary psychology teachers, also known as psychology professors, teach at the college level. They educate undergraduate and graduate students on different topics in psychology, including research, behavioral psychology, and human development. In addition to developing syllabi, psychology professors create assignments and exams to assess student learning. These professors also conduct research and publish their work.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A tenure-track psychology professor typically needs a Ph.D., though some colleges hire candidates with Psy.D. degrees to teach clinical psychology or for adjunct positions. Psychology professors may need special licensure, depending on their research and teaching areas.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]

[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm/”]$84,380[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Projected Growth Rate[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm/”]8%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]

[/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Psychologists”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychologists research behavior and the decision-making process. In specializations like clinical or counseling psychology, they work with individuals and groups managing emotional or behavioral problems. Psychologists also conduct research into human development, identify organizational dynamics, and test neurological responses, often publishing their research.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most psychologist jobs require a doctorate, though a school psychologist or I/O psychologist may hold only a master’s degree. A Psy.D. prepares psychologists for clinical roles and professional licensure. A licensed psychologist typically needs a doctorate, passing scores on a national exam, and supervised professional experience. Psychologists can also pursue specialty certification.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]

[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm/”]$85,330[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Projected Growth Rate[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm/”]7%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]

[/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical and Health Services Managers”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare executives, coordinate services in hospitals, medical practices, and other healthcare organizations. They set policy for their units, analyze data on quality, and implement plans to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Healthcare executives also ensure their organizations follow laws and regulations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With psychology training, healthcare executives can work for community health and behavioral health facilities, including inpatient treatment centers. They also need administrative training in management and budgeting, and medical and health services managers often hold graduate degrees. The career path does not require a professional license.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]

[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm/”]$110,680[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4 text-tertiary”]Projected Growth Rate[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm/”]29%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text]

[/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion]

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”professional-orgs”]Psychology Professional Organizations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Professional organizations help doctoral students expand their professional networks and prepare to transition into clinical practice, research roles, or other psychology careers. These organizations offer career resources, scholarships, and professional development support for doctoral candidates. They may also offer discounted student memberships.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.apa.org/” target=”_blank”]American Psychological Association[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] APA represents over 122,000 researchers, clinicians, educators, and students in psychology. The association promotes psychology as a discipline, accredits psychology programs, and offers career resources for students. Members can visit the psychology help center for clinical support or read APA publications to stay current with the field. The association also awards scholarships and fellowships.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://icpweb.org/” target=”_blank”]International Council of Psychologists[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] Since its founding in 1941, ICP has connected psychologists around the world. Members benefit from annual conferences and newsletters, mentorship opportunities, and professional development resources, such as webinars. This organization also offers travel and recognition awards for members.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://appliedsportpsych.org/” target=”_blank”]Association for Applied Sport Psychology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] AASP dates back to 1985 and represents sports and performance psychology professionals. Members work with athletes, business professionals, and military personnel to improve their physical and mental performance. The association offers professional certifications, hosts an annual conference with networking opportunities, and provides webinars and publications to help practitioners stay current in the field. AASP also offers grants and a student center.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”paying”]Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Psychology Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctoral programs typically cost tens of thousands in tuition and fees, even when courses are offered partially online. Fortunately, doctoral students qualify for many forms of financial aid to pay for their degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To start, students should fill out the [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa/”]Free Application for Federal Student Aid[/hen-ui-link] (FAFSA), which qualifies filers for federal student loans and work-study programs. In addition to federal loans, students can also use private loans to cover costs. Many states also support degree-seekers with grants or scholarships.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Institutional support helps many graduate students earn psychology degrees. Universities often award fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to help recruit and retain students. Some doctoral fellowships include tuition waivers and stipends. To learn about the options at your school, check with the student assistance or finance office.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Finally, psychology degree-seekers qualify for scholarships offered by professional associations, private foundations, and private donors. For example, the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.siop.org/Foundation/Awards/Scholarships-and-Fellowships/”]Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology[/hen-ui-link] offers both scholarships and fellowships. The APA also offers [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.apa.org/apf/funding/scholarships/”]scholarships and fellowships[/hen-ui-link] for psychology doctoral students.[/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”faq”]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can You Become a Psychologist With an Online Degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, though there are no accredited psychology doctorates that are available fully online. Instead, programs offer a mix of online and in-person coursework. Psychologists who earn APA-accredited degrees partially online qualify for a professional license in most states. Some career paths, including academia and research, may not require a license.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Are Online Psy.D. Programs APA Accredited?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The APA does not currently accredit any fully online Psy.D. programs. However, the APA does accredit hybrid programs. Always check local state requirements for psychologist licensure before enrolling in a psychology doctoral program to ensure that it meets specifications.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can You Earn a Doctorate in Psychology Completely Online?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No. As of 2021, the APA — the only agency authorized to accredit psychology doctoral programs — does not accredit any fully online programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion]

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn more, do more.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h5″]More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”350,204,1363″][/hen-ui-article-row] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]