phd in child psychology salary

PhD in Child Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, entry requirements for a phd in child psychology, why get a phd in child psychology, what’s covered in a phd in child psychology, what jobs can you do with a phd in child psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in child psychology.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in child psychology is an advanced doctoral degree that focuses on the study of children’s mental, emotional, and behavioral development. Completing a PhD in child psychology typically takes around 4 to 6 years of full-time study.

During a PhD program in child psychology, students engage in in-depth coursework, research, and clinical training to develop a comprehensive understanding of child development and acquire specialized skills in assessment, intervention, and research methodologies. They delve into various topics such as cognitive development, social-emotional development, language acquisition, psychopathology, and the influence of environmental factors on child development.

Research is a fundamental component of a Ph. program in child psychology. Students have the opportunity to conduct original research studies, exploring areas of interest and contributing to the existing knowledge in the field. They learn to design research studies, collect and analyze data, and interpret findings to advance our understanding of children’s psychological processes and developmental outcomes. This research experience enhances their critical thinking abilities, analytical skills, and expertise in research methodologies, preparing them to be effective researchers and scholars in the field of child psychology.

In addition to research, clinical training is an integral part of a PhD program in child psychology. Students typically participate in supervised practicum placements or internships, where they gain hands-on experience in assessing and providing interventions for children with psychological concerns. They learn to administer various assessment tools, conduct evaluations, and develop treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of children and families. This clinical training equips them with the practical skills and knowledge required to work with children in a therapeutic setting and make a positive impact on their psychological well-being.

• Master’s Degree:  Applicants should possess a  master’s degree in child psychology  or a related field, such as  educational psychology .
• Minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 or higher
• Research Experience:  Applicants are expected to have research experience, including participation in research projects, conference presentations, or publications, to showcase their ability to engage in rigorous scientific inquiry.
• Letters of Recommendation:  Applicants need to submit letters of recommendation from professors or research advisors who can provide insights into their academic abilities, research potential, and suitability for a PhD program.
• Statement of Purpose:  Applicants are required to submit a statement of purpose that highlights their research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in child psychology, demonstrating their motivation and fit with the program.

Growing Demand for Child Psychologists

There is a growing demand for qualified child psychologists to address the increasing mental health needs of children and adolescents. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of psychologists is projected to grow by 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for child psychologists is driven by factors such as the rising awareness of mental health issues in children, increased access to mental health services, and the recognition of the importance of early intervention. By pursuing a PhD in child psychology, students position themselves to meet this demand and contribute to bridging the gap in mental health services for children. The specialized knowledge and expertise gained through a PhD program enable graduates to provide high-quality assessments, interventions, and support to children and families in need.

Contributing to the Well-being of Children

Pursuing a PhD in child psychology offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of children and their families. Children’s mental health and well-being are crucial for their overall development and future success. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one in five children in the United States has a diagnosable mental health disorder, highlighting the importance of specialized professionals in this field. By obtaining a PhD in child psychology, students can contribute to the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions, assessment tools, and treatment approaches that promote positive mental health outcomes in children. Through research, clinical practice, and policy advocacy, child psychologists can help improve the lives of countless children and families.

Advancing Research and Knowledge in Child Psychology

Pursuing a PhD in child psychology allows students to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in the field. Research plays a crucial role in developing evidence-based practices, refining theoretical frameworks, and identifying effective interventions for children. By conducting original research studies, PhD students have the opportunity to contribute to this body of knowledge. They can explore important research questions, uncover new insights into child development and psychopathology, and contribute to the scientific literature. This not only furthers the field of child psychology but also enhances the quality of care and support provided to children and families. Additionally, as scholars and researchers, PhD graduates can contribute to shaping the future of child psychology through teaching, mentoring, and training the next generation of professionals.

A PhD in child psychology provides a comprehensive understanding of child development, psychopathology, research methods, assessment, and treatment approaches:

• Developmental Theories:  learn about the key concepts, research findings, and implications of these theories for understanding children’s development.
• Child Psychopathology:  learn about various mental health disorders affecting children, such as autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorders, depression, and conduct disorders.
• Research Methods:  learn about quantitative and qualitative research designs, experimental and non-experimental approaches, measurement tools, and statistical techniques commonly used in child psychology research.
• Child Assessment:  explore standardized measures, observational methods, interviews, and behavioral assessments used for diagnostic purposes, understanding developmental strengths and challenges, and evaluating treatment progress. They gain hands-on experience in administering and interpreting assessments.
• Intervention and Treatment Approaches:  learn about therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, family therapy, and parent training programs.
• Social and Cultural Influences on Child Development:  explore topics such as peer relationships, family dynamics, cultural diversity, socioeconomic influences, and the role of schools and communities in promoting children’s well-being. They gain an understanding of how these factors interact with biological and individual factors to shape child development.
• Ethics and Professional Issues:  learn about ethical guidelines for research and clinical practice involving children, confidentiality, informed consent, professional boundaries, and cultural competence.

Here is a sample curriculum:

• Advanced Child Development Theories
• Research Methods in Child Psychology
• Statistics for Child Psychology Research
• Child Psychopathology
• Ethics and Professional Issues in Child Psychology
• Seminar: Current Issues in Child Psychology

Second Year

• Social and Emotional Development in Childhood
• Cognitive Development in Children
• Assessment and Measurement in Child Psychology
• Quantitative Research Methods in Child Psychology
• Elective Course: Special Topics in Child Psychology
• Seminar: Research Design and Proposal Development
• Advanced Topics in Child Psychopathology
• Cultural and Contextual Influences on Child Development
• Intervention and Treatment Approaches in Child Psychology
• Qualitative Research Methods in Child Psychology
• Elective Course: Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Seminar: Advanced Statistical Analysis in Child Psychology Research

Fourth Year

• Research Practicum: Data Collection and Analysis
• Advanced Seminar in Child Psychology
• Dissertation Research and Writing
• Elective Course: Developmental Disabilities
• Elective Course: Family Systems and Child Development
• Seminar: Professional Development in Child Psychology
• Dissertation Defense
• Advanced Seminar: Emerging Trends in Child Psychology
• Elective Course: Social and Cultural Issues in Child Psychology
• Elective Course: Cognitive and Academic Assessment
• Elective Course: Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy

There are a wealth of job opportunities available to holders of a PhD in child psychology, here are some of the most common jobs held:

• Child psychologist:  assess the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development of children and provides therapeutic interventions to address psychological issues specific to children and adolescents.
• School Psychologist:  Providing psychological services to students in school settings, such as assessments, counseling, and behavioral interventions.
• Educational Psychologist : Improve the learning and development processes of individuals within educational settings.
• Developmental Psychologist : Study the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes that occur across the lifespan, from infancy to old age.
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW):  Licensed social worker providing clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to individuals or groups with mental health or emotional issues.
• Mental Health Therapist:  Licensed therapist providing individual or group therapy to address a range of mental health conditions or concerns.
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) :  Licensed therapist providing counseling to individuals or groups on a range of mental health or emotional issues.
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) :  Licensed counselor providing mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to individuals or groups.
• Professor of Psychology :  conduct research, teach psychology courses at the university level, mentor students, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field through scholarly publications and academic service.

Your salary will vary by location, specific job and any additional training you choose to pursue but here are some average annual salaries for the roles typically held by those with a PhD in child psychology.

• Child psychologist : $85,340
• School Psychologist :  $78,970
• Educational Psychologist :  $82,180
• Developmental Psychologist :  $78,000
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) :  $58,000
• Mental Health Therapist :  $78,534
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) :  $47,660
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) :  $47,660
• Professor of Psychology:  $80,370

Psychologist - Ph.D. Salary in the United States

Psychologist - ph.d. salary.

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Child Psychology Degree | Salary & Requirements 2024

Introduction to child psychology.

Throughout much of history, people thought of children as miniature adults. This mindset began to change as Jean Piaget and other pioneers in the field of child psychology started demonstrating how childhood is a unique stage of human development.

Nowadays, we possess a realm of theories and research that provides insight into the mind and behavior of children at various ages. This information guides many of the practices and decisions in fields such as mental health, education, human services, and marketing. Thus, a degree in child psychology makes the recipient attractive to a range of employers.

Beyond earning a living, though, studying child psychology prepares graduates to truly make a difference in the lives of our youngest members of society. From handling social media to experiencing a global pandemic, children today face unprecedented challenges that have contributed to growing rates of anxiety and depression. They need understanding and trained professionals to help them navigate a complex world.

What is a Child Psychology Degree?

The American Psychological Association (APA) defines child psychology as “ the branch of psychology concerned with the systematic study of the behavior, adjustment, and growth of individuals from birth through adolescence, as well as with the treatment of their behavioral, mental, and emotional disorders.” Child psychology majors learn how children grow physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. They examine the effects of nature vs. nurture on development. They also gain knowledge about abnormal behavior and the possible causes of it. 

Undergraduates interested in child psychology typically find that colleges structure their program to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology . Students may be able to  select an emphasis or concentration in child/adolescent psychology, but the main concern at this level is that students leave with a solid introduction to the field of psychology as a whole. Some schools group child psychology and developmental psychology together, with the latter being the study of human growth and change throughout a lifespan. 

Institutions offer more detailed, specific study of child psychology at the graduate level. The type of degree you should choose depends on your career aspirations. 

A Master of Arts often appeals to those who plan on doing counseling or therapy. 

Those who wish to conduct psychological research or go on to doctoral studies may opt for a Master of Science. 

The highest level one can achieve in the discipline is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) . Such a degree is usually necessary to set up private practice as a child psychologist. 

What to Expect in Child Psychology Degree Programs

Before taking specialized classes, undergraduate child psychology majors learn about the general discipline of psychology. Programs focus on an understanding of the human experience and the factors that influence it. 

As a child psychology major, you will learn about notable psychological theories, assessments, and treatments. You’ll also develop an understanding of how psychological research is conducted and interpreted. Many programs require students taking psychology classes to participate in research conducted by professors at the institution in order to witness first-hand what goes on in psychological studies.

Child psychology majors bring a basic foundation into higher-level courses focusing on children and adolescents. You’ll learn about healthy development and factors that support it or pose challenges to it. 

Upper-level students may choose classes in particular areas of interest, such as childhood mental health problems, the role of genetics in personality, or gender issues in elementary school. Further specialization occurs if you seek a graduate degree in child psychology.

Potential Classes for Child Psychology Majors

Whether you physically head to a school or earn a child psychology degree online, each educational institution has its own set of core requirements and offered electives. Some courses that are frequently part of the curriculum include:

• Introduction to psychology
• Child development
• Adolescent development
• Lifespan development
• Abnormal psychology
• Social psychology
• Psychology of personality
• Research methods
• Research statistics

Note that psychology majors at many schools finish out their undergraduate degree program with a capstone project in the form of a research paper or an original experiment. This project allows students to delve into an area of individual interest as well as demonstrate what they have learned in their classes.

Likewise, the classes you might take while studying child psychology in graduate school differ by institutional offerings and personal interests. Here are some courses you may encounter:

• Data analysis
• Assessments (personality tests, intelligence tests, etc.)
• Psychopathology
• Clinical experience
• Interventions
• Advanced developmental psychology
• Physiological psychology
• Cultural diversity in psychological services

Graduate programs typically involve writing and defending a thesis as well as passing tests demonstrating mastery of the discipline.

Child Psychology Salary & Career Info

The knowledge gained from studying child psychology can be applied to careers in mental health, education, human services, business, and more. The choice of occupation depends on the interests of the individual, the amount of education and training completed, and the job market.

What You Can Do with a Child Psychology Degree

Most people who choose to study child psychology do so to prepare for careers that impact the lives of children. This assistance could involve situations ranging from counseling one-on-one to formulating policies that aid children through research studies. 

The following is a sample of some of the hottest-growing careers in which a background in child psychology proves useful. All figures come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Median Salary: $48,520
• Career Outlook: +23% (2020-2030)

Counselors work with children and teens on a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, relationships, grief, and self-esteem, to name a few. They may meet with individuals or with groups to discuss problems and ways to cope.

• Median Salary: $63,920
• Career Outlook: +22% (2020-2030)

Market research analysts help companies determine what consumers want. Employees with insight into the thoughts and actions of children and teenagers help their employer make decisions on how to attract this important sector of the population.

• Median Salary: $37,610
• Career Outlook: +17% (2020-2030)

Many child psychology majors find their degree attracts interest from non-profits and governmental agencies that serve the needs of children and their families. Assistants perform a variety of tasks, such as coordinating services, helping clients fill out paperwork, and following up to make certain needs are being met.

Child Psychology Degrees

An undergraduate degree in psychology is a useful foundation. As with most disciplines, however, higher education opens up more job possibilities and increases pay. According to the American Psychological Association , the median salaries of psychology bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral/professional degree holders in 2019 were $50,000, $60,000, and $90,000, respectively.

Many careers require further education, training, and licensure beyond a bachelor’s degree. Here is a sample of such occupations:

• Median Salary: $79,510
• Career Outlook: +10% (2020-2030)

These psychologists work with children and teens to identify and improve disorders and problems related to emotions, behavior, education, and interactions. A master’s degree may be sufficient for school positions; others typically require a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD). 

• Median Salary: $49,880
• Career Outlook: +16% (2020-2030)

These professionals help people manage problems with their family. They may assist with processing emotions, improving behaviors, looking at situations from different perspectives, and dealing with life changes such as divorce. Therapists need a master’s degree and supervised clinical experience as part of state licensing requirements.

• Median Salary: $77,860

Junior colleges, colleges, and universities hire faculty to teach courses in child psychology. People holding this position often combine classroom duties with conducting original research. A master’s degree may be sufficient at some institutions, but most college professors hold a PhD or other doctoral degree.

Child Psychology Careers By State

The geographical region in which one wants to land a job plays a significant role in terms of opportunities and pay. Some areas of the country have a greater need for certain types of professionals, often due to their population size. Likewise, salaries can vary greatly from one state to the next.

Here’s a look at state rankings as of May 2021 for the child psychology-related occupations previously discussed:

Substance abuse, behavioral, and mental health counselor

• Top-paying states: Utah, Alaska, District of Columbia, Rhode Island, New Jersey
• States with highest employment level: California, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Texas

Market research analyst

• Top-paying states: Washington, Delaware, New York, New Jersey, District of Columbia
• States with highest employment level: California, New York, Texas, Florida, Illinois

Social and human service assistant

• Top-paying states: District of Columbia, Connecticut, California, North Dakota, Alaska
• States with highest employment level: California, New York, New Jersey, Texas, Florida

Clinical and counseling psychologist

• Top-paying states: New Jersey, Delaware, Oregon, California, New York
• States with highest employment level: California, New York, Illinois, Texas, Massachusetts

School psychologist

• Top-paying states: Colorado, New York, California, District of Columbia, Washington
• States with highest employment level: California, Texas, New York, Illinois, Florida

Marriage and family therapist

• Top-paying states: Utah, New Jersey, Colorado, Minnesota, Nevada
• States with highest employment level: California, New Jersey, Illinois, Minnesota, Florida

Psychology teachers, post-secondary

• Top-paying states: California, District of Columbia, New York, Oregon, Massachusetts
• States with highest employment level: New York, California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Illinois

Best Child Psychology Colleges

Plenty of programs exist for earning a child psychology degree online, on-campus, or through hybrid arrangements. No single “best” child psychology college exists since a great match depends on several factors – individual interests, career aspirations, location, and costs, to name a few.

The following are a few places known for their outstanding child psychology programs . For additional assistance in locating child psychology colleges, 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 ! 

1. University of Denver , Denver, Colorado

In 1976, the University of Denver became one of the first schools in the nation to offer a PsyD in clinical psychology. The school’s reputation has grown over the years, as has its commitment to four pillars: rigorous academic coursework, in-house clinical work, community-based clinical work, and departmental mentorship.

Psychology students in the Master of Arts program at this private institution are encouraged to tailor their studies to align with their personal interests. Some specialty areas offered include infant and early childhood mental health, substance use disorder psychology, and LatinX psychology.

Serving communities within the greater Denver area is a priority for the university, and even undergraduate psychology majors participate in clinical field placements. They also have opportunities to hold research assistantships in the university’s 20+ research labs.

2. Vanderbilt University , Nashville, Tennessee

When it comes to studying children, many different departments at this selective, private institution get involved. The Department of Psychology and Human Development in Peabody College offers undergraduate majors in child development, cognitive studies, and child studies. In the Colleges of Art and Science, undergrads can pursue a psychology major. Vanderbilt also offers a Master of Education (MEd) in child studies and a PhD program in psychological sciences that emphasizes psychological theory and original research.

Good news for those looking for assistance to pay for their studies: Vanderbilt has a nationally renowned financial aid program. Its Opportunity Vanderbilt program ensures a need-blind admission process based on merit that promises to meet the monetary needs of every undergraduate through grants and scholarships. You’ll leave with a great education, not student loans.

3. St. John’s University – New York , Queens, New York

Sure, undergraduate psychology majors at this Catholic institution complete core courses that provide a strong foundation in the overall discipline. But they also have a variety of exciting electives from which to choose:

• Child and adolescent psychopathology
• Educational psychology
• Autism and intellectual disabilities
• Psychology of humor
• Psychology of the African American experience
• Positive psychology, to name a few

At the graduate level, students can opt to pursue a heavily research-oriented Master of Arts in Psychology, a Master of Science or a Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology, or a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology. Note that the PsyD program offers a bilingual track.

4. CUNY Brooklyn College , Brooklyn, New York

This public institution in the City University of New York system allows undergraduates to pursue either a BA or BA in Psychology. The first option provides more of a liberal arts education, while the latter concentrates more heavily on math and science aspects. Both provide plenty of opportunities to take courses dealing with children and adolescents.

Those going on to graduate studies may find the Master of Arts in experimental psychology an interesting option as it uses scientific methods to improve understanding of the mind, brain, and behavior. Students with career aspirations that include hands-on work with clients may opt for a Master of Arts in mental health counseling. The college also offers a PhD program in Psychology.

5. University of Kansas , Lawrence, Kansas

While students can earn a traditional Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, a highlight of this public institution’s undergraduate psychology program is its new major in behavioral neuroscience. This concentration is particularly well-suited for students interested in the biological bases of behavior and thought.

At the graduate level, the university has made a name for itself with its doctoral program in clinical child psychology. Highly selective, only three applicants out of 135 were admitted for 2021-2022. Much of the hands-on experience in this program takes place at the KU Child & Family Services Clinic, which provides affordable, quality mental health care to children, adolescents, and families of Northeast Kansas.

Skills Needed for Child Psychology Majors

Child psychology is a great discipline for people who want to gain a deeper understanding of that period of life. Most individuals who choose to study child psychology genuinely like kids and teenagers, feel comfortable interacting with them, and want to help them lead better lives. Through both their own natural traits and what they learn in their college classes, child psychology majors do well to possess skills such as:

• Active listening
• Keen observation
• Effective written and oral communication
• Critical thinking
• Eliminating personal bias
• Data interpretation
• Applying psychological theories to real-world situations
• Awareness of sociocultural, race, and gender differences and their impact
• Respect for privacy

Next Steps - How to Get Started on Earning a Degree in Child Psychology

Think earning a degree in child psychology might be a good move? There are many things to consider before making a commitment.

If you haven’t already, graduate from high school. A good grade point average will expand the pool of child psychology colleges likely to accept you. Develop your reading, writing, and math skills. All will be necessary in a child psychology college program.

Examine higher education options thoroughly. Find accredited schools that offer classes in your area of interest. Be certain the delivery format works for you, too. Some students really want the on-campus experience. Others like the convenience of remote learning.

Look at your potential career aspirations. While a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology provides a great foundation for many jobs, some occupations require advanced degrees and/or licenses. See what you need from the get-go in order to make solid educational choices and avoid unpleasant surprises down the road.

If you are trying to get into a graduate program in child psychology but have a background in a different discipline, pay attention to prerequisites. You may need to address educational gaps before applying or take some extra classes to strengthen your fundamentals once admitted.

At every level, money is bound to be a chief concern. Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) in order to see what type of grants, loans, work study programs, and other sources of help may be available based on your need and circumstances.

Finally, spend time researching scholarships – a highly desirable way to cover educational costs because recipients do not need to pay them back. Read eligibility requirements carefully so as not to waste time applying for scholarships for which you are not a match. Put your best self forward for those for which you do meet criteria. A thoughtful essay or a thorough list of past accomplishments may give you an edge over other candidates.

Three scholarships students interested in a child psychology degree may want to check out are:

NASP-ERT Minority Scholarship Program - The National Association of School Psychologists-Education and Research Trust awards this $5,000 scholarship to a minority student enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in a graduate school psychology program with the aim of becoming a practicing school psychologist.

Charlotte Shepherd Southern Spirit Scholarship - Oregon students majoring in counseling, family therapy, social work, or psychology can apply for this scholarship administered through the Office of Student Access and Completion. Selection is based on application answers, transcript, financial need analysis, and essay submission.

American Psychological Foundation - This professional organization presents a variety of scholarships at different educational levels. Among them is the Elizabeth Munsterberg Koppitz Child Psychology Graduate Student Fellowship , which offers $25,000 prizes to graduate students in child psychology. 

For additional possibilities, search our scholarship database . Its filters can help target scholarships based on criteria you select, such as gender, ethnicity, state of residence, or career goals. With more than 5,000 awards available, you’re bound to find many for which you’re a great candidate!

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2024 Best Online PhD in Child Psychology Programs

Earning an online PhD in Child Psychology may be the final big step in your educational journey, and it may open doors to top-level positions in your field.

You may pursue a rewarding career as a licensed clinical child psychologist, university professor, or experimental psychologist.

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Whether you’ve just finished your undergrad or masters degree or you’re already working in the field of child psychology, you may be feeling the urge to continue your climb to new professional heights. Earning your Ph.D. online might be the right next step for you to consider, whether it’s an online PhD in child psychology, one in forensic psychology, or even a PhD in industrial organizational psychology online .

Universities Offering Online PhD in Child Psychology Degree Programs

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

Capella University

Capella University has a PhD in Psychology with a concentration in Developmental Psychology. The program helps provide students with a more in-depth understanding of the ways people change as they grow. Students can further streamline their curricula by focusing strictly on either adulthood and aging, lifespan, or adolescent development.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Fielding Graduate University

Students interested in child psychology at Fielding Graduate University can enroll in the school’s PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development program.

It’s a multidisciplinary program that includes further emphasis in either developmental disorders or mental health. Sample courses include cross-cultural understanding, developmental disabilities, social and emotional development, statistics, and language intervention.

Fielding Graduate University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Liberty University

Liberty University’s psychology PhD program features a concentration in developmental psychology.

It’s a 60 credit program that takes about 3 years to complete. Classes are delivered online via 8 week sessions and include courses such as foundations of doctoral study in psychology, psychological research, and biblical worldview and teaching of psychology.

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

Loyola University – Chicago

While Loyola University – Chicago doesn’t offer a PhD in Child Psychology, it does offer a Doctor of Education in School Psychology, which could be preferable to students seeking jobs in the field of education. The curriculum focuses on intervention, consultation, assessment and placement, and the evaluation of evidence-based practices.

Loyola University – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

National University

National University offers a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Therapy.

The program aims to help students gain expertise in the field and become well-versed in working with diverse populations, capable of conducting independent research, and able to appraise relational and systemic ethical behaviors.

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

Regent University

The PhD in Counseling and Psychological Studies program from Regent University features a concentration in marriage and family ministry. Coursework for the program is entirely online and is delivered through 16 week sessions. Students will also gain hands-on, real-world experience through their 150 hours of on-site human services work.

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

Saybrook University

Saybrook University’s online PhD in Clinical Psychology program meets the requirements for licensure in many states.

The program focuses on multicultural psychology, psychotherapy, data analyses and meta-analyses, humanistic-integrative psychology, developmental psychology, and child and adolescent psychology. Students will receive close mentoring from highly qualified faculty members as well as plenty of hands-on training.

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

Sofia University

Students enrolled in the PhD in Transpersonal Psychology program at Sofia University can choose from four specific concentration options. The program is largely completed online, but there are four required residential seminars that must be completed before students can graduate. Sometimes the school also offers these seminars online.

Sofia University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide’s Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology program is a 66 credit program that takes about 3 years to complete. It’s a fully online psychology degree program that features a series of classes lasting 8 weeks each.

Courses include applied cognitive psychology, applied media psychology, and evidence-based practices.

Touro University Worldwide is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Walden University

Walden University has an online PhD in Developmental Psychology program that allows students to choose between seven different concentration options, including one in child and adolescent development.

There are also two different degree tracks based on whether students have masters degrees in psychology or in other disciplines not related to psychology.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Child Psychology Programs

If you’re ready to take your career to the highest professional level as a child psychologist or adolescent psychologist, you might start exploring online doctoral programs.

Child psychology is a subfield recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA), and the term refers to the psychotherapeutic treatment of clients from birth through adolescence.

Child psychology encompasses the developmental, clinical, pediatric, and psychotherapeutic aspects of the field of psychology. With a Ph.D. in Child Psychology, you may qualify for clinical licensure to treat children and adolescents for cognitive, intellectual, and behavioral disorders.

As a child psychologist, you may treat children for issues pertaining to emotional problems, developmental disorders, trauma, and biological vulnerabilities. Your services may include evaluations, interventions, and consultations to help your young clients.

Psychology professionals who hold a doctoral degree in child psychology can work in a variety of settings. You may work in hospitals, residential or outpatient mental health treatment facilities, schools, universities, and private practices. Additionally, you may serve as a university professor or an experimental researcher in the field of child psychology.

A typical PhD program includes coursework, research, an internship, and a dissertation. The psychological research that you might conduct during your degree program includes qualitative, quantitative, biological, cognitive, and behavioral research.

Through your doctoral coursework, you may develop skills in APA-approved research methodologies as well as the scholarly writing style necessary to report your findings.

Your courses will likely focus on professional and ethical issues surrounding the licensed practice of child psychology. Additional courses may focus on specific issues, such as child and adolescent development, family counseling, and psychological assessment.

Topics of study may include perception, cognition, behavior, and neuroscience in children and adolescents.

Child Psychology Careers & Salaries

With a doctorate in child psychology, you may qualify for licensure to practice in a number of clinical settings.

Perhaps you’re interested in becoming a school psychologist and working for a public school system. You may also pursue a career where you treat adolescents living in a residential mental health treatment facility.

The following information pertaining to child psychology and related careers is retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

With this terminal degree, you might progress in your career to supervisory or managerial positions. In this capacity, you may become the head of a team, overseeing the work of others in your field.

Of course, you might also enter the world of academia as a psychology professor or experimental psychologist in a university or teaching hospital. Private practice is always an option, too.

Doctorate in Child Psychology Curriculum & Courses

Curriculum and courses in a child psychology doctoral program generally center around classroom lecture, research, and field experience or practicums. Many programs require one or more internships as well as a dissertation for program completion.

Here is a brief overview of courses that you may encounter in a child psychology PhD program:

• Foundations of Doctoral Study in Psychology : This course involves discussion and skill-building in critical thinking, scholarly writing, ethics, and empirical research for academic work on the doctoral level in psychology.
• Psychological Assessment with Children : This course combines classroom lecture and field experience, covering clinical interviewing techniques, behavior observation methods, risk assessment, and therapeutic approaches in child psychology.
• Family Counseling Theory : This course is a survey of theoretical models of family interaction, function, and dysfunction.
• Evidence-Based Practice in Psychology : You’ll study empirically supported psychotherapy protocols with an emphasis on implementing techniques within an evidence-based practice.
• Introductory Practicum in Child Psychology : This course is an orientation to psychological evaluation and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families through shadowing cases and assisting licensed professionals.
• Legal Issues in Child Psychology : This course is an overview of laws that govern the practice of licensed clinical child psychologists.
• Developmental Stages of Childhood and Adolescence : You’ll examine theories of child development, including social, physical, cognitive, and psychological stages of development.
• Child and Adolescent Social Development : You’ll explore the ways children develop in social settings, including family relationships, peer relations, and social behavior.
• Research Methods and Statistics : This course covers methodology and statistical analysis for experimental, descriptive, and predictive research studies.
• Qualitative Research and Analysis : This course covers theoretical foundations for understanding human behavior through qualitative research methodologies, including case studies.

This list represents only a sampling of courses you might take in an online PhD in Child Psychology program. Curricular requirements commonly include lecture-based academic courses, supervised practicum experiences, dissertation preparation, and independent research.

How to Become a Child Psychologist

To become a licensed child psychologist, you’ll often need to earn a doctoral degree. This might be a PhD, which focuses on research, or a PsyD, which focuses on clinical practice.

Both degree types require years of coursework, practicums, and internships that culminate in a final dissertation or capstone project. The PhD requires the submission and defense of a research-based dissertation. The PsyD also requires either a dissertation or a capstone project, but it may be practice-based rather than research-based.

Of course, academic achievement alone does not guarantee success. A child psychologist generally possesses these personal traits:

• Caring, empathetic, and patient attitude toward children
• Motivated to help others
• Keen observational skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Ability to evaluate and analyze data

If you’re just starting your educational journey with the goal of becoming a child psychologist, you might want to begin with a bachelors degree in psychology online or on-campus. This can be followed by a masters degree in psychology that may act as a stepping stone toward a doctoral program.

While many doctoral programs in child psychology do not require bachelor’s and master’s degrees specifically in psychology, it is necessary to show completion of prerequisite courses.

Throughout your undergraduate and graduate programs, it may help to focus on building strong skills in sciences, math, and statistics. These can be important for admission to a doctoral program in child psychology.

Admissions Requirements

One of the first steps in your new educational journey will be to apply and be accepted to the doctoral program of your choice. Here is a list of typical admission requirements.

• Transcripts : Transcripts may be required in order to show your completion of bachelors and masters degrees programs along with your GPA.
• Test scores : Some schools will request to see your score on the GRE test, but this is not always required.
• Letters of recommendation : Schools will often request letters of recommendation from employers or previous professors.
• Work experience : References and evidence of work experience in psychology or a related field may be required.

Child psychology doctoral programs require completion of bachelor’s and master’s degrees with minimum GPAs, typically 3.0.

Your bachelors and masters degrees may be in psychology, or you may demonstrate completion of undergraduate and graduate courses in psychology, statistics, research methods, and laboratory experience to meet admission requirements for a PhD program.

Accreditation

When you’re shopping around for online child psychology PhD programs, you may want to consider choosing a university that holds regional accreditation from one of the following accrediting organizations :

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Additionally, you may want to verify that a degree program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). You may also check your state licensure board to see if your particular state requires a degree accredited by the Association of State and Provincial Licensing Boards (ASPPB).

Financial Aid and Scholarships

As you shop for online PhD degree programs in child psychology, you may want to explore opportunities to apply for financial aid. You may start by visiting the Federal Student Aid website, where you can fill out and submit your FAFSA form. This form is an important first step toward receiving financial aid.

Financial assistance is available in the form of loans, grants, merit-based and need-based scholarships, and work-study jobs. Veterans and military family members are eligible for some types of student aid, too.

In addition to federal student aid, you may explore financial assistance from your state or your employer. The university that you choose may also offer fellowships and assistantships for doctoral students.

What Is a Child Psychologist?

A child psychologist is a trained professional who specializes in the delivery of psychological services to infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents. These specialists apply their understanding of the psychological needs of children and adolescents to assess, diagnose, and treat an array of problems.

Child psychologists help their clients with cognitive, emotional, developmental, and behavioral issues. These issues may include trauma and loss, behavioral disorders, stress, problems with family or social relationships, and much more.

Children and adolescents may experience a wide range of interrelated biological, psychological, and social problems. Through specialized training and research, child psychologists are equipped to assess and treat their young clients for these problems.

What Does a Child Psychologist Do?

Child psychologists conduct testing and evaluation for children and adolescents to assess their needs for interventions related to psychological, intellectual, cognitive, and behavioral problems. After testing, they design and administer interventions such as psychotherapy and behavior management to help their clients.

In addition to treating clients, child psychologists design and direct prevention programs for child and adolescent populations. Examples include anti-bullying campaigns, teen pregnancy prevention, and drug addiction prevention programs.

In their work, child psychologists design and conduct research as well as utilize the research of others. They frequently collaborate with colleagues involved in the psychological evaluation and treatment of children and adolescents.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Child Psychology

With a PhD in Child Psychology, you may qualify for top-level professional positions in the field.

Your personal preferences and professional interests might direct you toward establishing a private practice, working in a hospital, or serving as a pediatric psychologist in schools. You may want to work in a family services or child protective services agency.

On the other hand, you might prefer to work in the world of academia, where you can serve as a college professor and researcher. After completing your doctoral degree, it’s time to pass the requirements for licensure in your state. Then, you can practice as a licensed clinical child psychologist.

With your doctoral degree and professional experience, you might qualify for supervisory positions, such as a medical and health services manager or social and community services manager.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Child Psychologist?

The time it will take for you to complete your online PhD in Child Psychology depends on whether you are able to enroll full-time or part-time.

Online learning allows you to schedule your academic work around your existing family and professional responsibilities. So, the speed with which you complete the program will often be unique to your circumstances. In general, it takes approximately 3 to 5 years to complete a doctoral degree.

In addition to coursework, most programs require at least one internship of a year’s duration. You may also need to conduct independent research to write and defend a dissertation.

How Much Does a Child Psychologist Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a psychologist earns an annual average of $82,180 while clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in particular make an average of $79,820.

As a professor of psychology or researcher at a university, you might expect to earn an average salary of $78,180. If your career as a child psychologist leads you to work in a hospital, mental health treatment facility, or family services agency, there’s a chance you may be promoted one day to a managerial position.

A medical and health services manager earns an average of $104,280 annually, and a social and community services manager earns an average of $69,600.

What Is the Difference Between a PhD in Child Psychology vs. Developmental Psychology?

You may be wondering whether you should pursue an online PhD in Developmental Psychology or an online doctoral program in child psychology. The two disciplines are closely related, and they have some overlap as well.

Child psychology is a specialty area that focuses on the years from birth through adolescence. It is sometimes called developmental psychology because childhood and adolescence are viewed through the lens of developmental stages.

Developmental psychology, though, is the study of human development across the entire lifespan, from infancy through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood to older adulthood. So, developmental psychology encompasses a broader view that includes all stages of life.

What Is the Difference Between a Child Therapist vs. Child Psychologist?

A child therapist is a psychiatrist. This is a medical doctor who has completed residency training and fellowships in the field of child psychiatry.

After passing a state licensing exam, a psychiatrist is qualified to prescribe medication in addition to evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental or emotional health problems in children and adolescents.

A child psychologist has earned a doctoral degree and met requirements for state licensure to practice clinical child psychology. Preparation includes years of training and internships. A child psychologist is licensed to conduct psychological testing, evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional problems in children and adolescents.

Is a PhD in Child Psychology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Child Psychology is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, life, physical, and social science jobs are set to grow at 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the average for all occupations.

Common child psychology careers in this field include medical and health services manager, school psychologist, clinical child psychologist, social and community services manager, and family therapist.

Depending on your career goals, you might provide psychotherapeutic services for children in a broad array of work settings. These settings include hospitals, schools, mental health treatment facilities, community and family services agencies, and private practice.

Getting Your PhD in Child Psychology Online

If you want to support and treat children and adolescents, a PhD in Child Psychology may be the final step in your educational journey.

You may be finishing up a masters degree and launching immediately into a doctoral program, or you may have been in the professional world for a while and plan on returning to school to earn your doctorate.

Regardless if you’re a current student or working professional, online learning platforms have expanded and improved in the past few years to offer amazing educational opportunities. The flexibility of online learning can allow you to balance school with work and other responsibilities.

This is the case with both online child and adolescent psychology masters programs .

If you’re ready to continue your academic journey to receive your doctorate in child psychology, then you may begin exploring accredited, online degree programs to find the one that’s right for you.

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Psychologist Salary Info: The 9 Highest Paying Careers

Which psychology jobs pay the best salary?

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

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Psychology can be a high-paying job, but it is important to recognize that there is tremendous diversity among psychology professions, and  salaries and yearly earnings are just as varied. In a struggling economy, many students have turned their interest toward some of the highest-paying careers in psychology. The highest-paying psychologist career salaries average around $167,000.

While many psychology careers have a higher-than-average yearly salary, it is important to remember that actual income depends upon various factors, including geographic location, employment sector, educational background, and years of experience.

Learn more about some of the highest-paying psychology careers, the typical salaries for such professions, and the educational requirements for entering these fields.

Psychiatrist

Average Salary:  $216,090 per year

Educational Requirements:  Considered a medical career, psychiatry is significantly tied to the study and application of psychology. Approximately eight years of post-undergraduate study. After earning a bachelor's degree, aspiring psychiatrists must graduate from medical school and then complete a four-year residency.

Psychiatry is one of the highest-paying fields tied to psychology. However, salaries can vary considerably within this field depending upon your specialty area , where you are employed, and the type of work you perform.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Average Salary: $105,310

Educational Requirements: In most cases, a master's degree in psychology is the minimum training required, although having a doctorate degree may be to your advantage. While there are opportunities available at the master's degree level, earning a doctorate degree in industrial-organizational psychology offers greater opportunities and higher salaries.

Industrial-organizational psychologists use their knowledge of psychology to tackle workplace issues. Increasing worker productivity, selecting the best employees for particular jobs, and developing market research surveys are just a few things that an industrial-organizational psychologist might do.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that I/O psychologists in the scientific research and development industry earned an average annual wage of $122,660. Those employed at colleges, universities, and professional schools earned an average of $110,070.

According to the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology , the average salary for a doctorate-level consultant was $167,000.

Neuropsychologist

Average Salary: $90,460 per year

Educational Requirements: A doctorate degree in neuropsychology or clinical neuropsychology is needed to work in this field.

Neuropsychologists specialize in the study of the brain and cognitive science.   People who work in this field often perform cognitive tests, run brain scans, assess people suffering from brain injury, and study how drugs impact the nervous system. They may work at colleges and universities, hospitals, research centers, mental health clinics, and pharmaceutical labs.

Clinical Psychologist

Average Salary: $81,330 per year

Educational Requirements: In most states, clinical psychologists must have a doctorate degree in psychology. In addition to this education, they must also complete one to two years of supervised residency and pass state licensing exams in order to practice as a licensed clinical psychologist.

Clinical psychologists are trained in assessing, diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illness. This is also the largest area of employment within psychology. Clinical psychologists work in various settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practice.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that in May 2019, those employed in individual and family services earned an average of $85,140. Those employed in the offices of other health practitioners earned an average of $100,300 per year.

Engineering Psychologist

Average Salary: $79,818 per year

Educational Requirements: Entry-level positions require a master's degree, but those with a doctorate will find greater employment opportunities and better salaries.

Engineering psychologists work to improve the design of systems, operations, and equipment in order to increase efficiency, improve productivity, and minimize injury. As with other specialty areas of psychology, the area of employment plays a major role in determining salary. Engineering psychologists who work in the private sector earn considerably more than those employed in university settings.

Counseling Psychologist

Average Salary: $72,540 per year

Educational Requirements: A PhD, PsyD , or EdD degree is required to become a counseling psychologist.

Counseling psychologists perform many of the same tasks as clinical psychologists such as offering psychotherapy and mental health treatment, but they typically work with clients suffering from less severe forms of mental illness.

While mental health is one of the largest areas within counseling psychology, some people in this field opt to conduct research. They also teach university courses or provide vocational counseling.

Forensic Psychologist

Average Salary: $59,440

Educational Requirements: While there are some jobs available with a master's degree, you will typically need a doctorate degree in clinical, counseling, or forensic psychology.

Forensic psychologists deal with psychological issues related to the law. Some of the duties that a professional in this field might perform include developing psychological profiles of criminals, dealing with child custody issues, investigating child abuse, providing expert testimony, preparing witnesses to testify in court, and offering training to law enforcement.

School Psychologist

Average Salary: $58,360

Educational Requirements: Most states require completing a 60-credit school psychology specialist program, which leads to a master's or EdS degree. Approximately 32% of school psychologists hold a PhD , PsyD, or EdD degree.

School psychologists work within the educational system to diagnose and treat behavior and learning problems in children. They often collaborate with other professionals, including teachers and doctors as well as parents, to help kids overcome social, emotional, behavioral, and academic problems.

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the U.S. Department of Labor, jobs in this field are expected to grow by approximately 10% over the next decade.

Sports Psychologist

Average Salary:  $55,000 per year

Educational Requirements:  Most jobs require a master's or doctorate degree in sports psychology or in related areas such as clinical or counseling psychology. Sports psychologists  are interested in the psychological components of sports and athletics.  

Professionals in this field often focus on topics such as  motivation  and athletic performance. They utlizie their knowledge of psychology to help athletes perform better or to help people recover from sports injuries.

While salaries for sports psychologists typically range between $60,000 and $80,000, those working with professional athletes often earn over six figures.

What Psych Career Is Best For You? Take the Quiz

This fast and free psychology careers quiz can help you get a better sense for which kind of psychology career might be the best fit for your personality, career interests, salary needs, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

While specific salaries vary depending on factors including experience and location, psychiatry tends to be the highest-paying psychology-related career.

They can! However, it is important to recognize that individual salaries vary a great deal. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for psychologists is $81,040. However, the lowest paid 10% made less than $47,850 per year. Your own salary may depend on factors such as your specialty, training, experience, area of employment, and geographic location.

Psychology can be a good career if it is suited to your interests and goals. The field is expected to experience modest growth in the coming year, and there are always opportunities for growth depending on where your interests lie. The growing need for mental health services and an aging population means that there will be a need for trained psychologists.

A Word From Verywell

Choosing a career is a big decision, and the salary is just one of many factors you need to consider. Money is an important component, but factors such as job outlook and quality of life are also essential.

So is becoming a psychologist worth it? Only you can decide. Think about how a particular career may suit your personality and goals in life before committing. In the end, the best job for you is the one you will enjoy the most and fulfills your personal and professional needs.

Zavlin D, Jubbal KT, Noé JG, Gansbacher B. A comparison of medical education in Germany and the United States: from applying to medical school to the beginnings of residency. Ger Med Sci. 2017;15:Doc15. doi:10.3205/000256

Torpey E. Business careers with high pay.  Career Outlook,  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016.

Kossek EE, Baltes BB, Matthews RA. How Work-Family Research Can Finally Have an Impact in Organizations. Ind Organ Psychol . 2011;4(3):352-369. doi:10.1111/j.1754-9434.2011.01353.x

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational employment and wages, May 2021: 19-3032 industrial-organizational psychologists .

Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The SIOP income and employment report is here !

Harvey PD. Clinical applications of neuropsychological assessment. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2012;14(1):91-9.

Wahass SH. The role of psychologists in health care delivery. J Family Community Med. 2005;12(2):63-70.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational employment and wages, May 2019: 19-3031 clinical, counseling, and school psychologists .

Iudici A, Salvini A, Faccio E, Castelnuovo G. The clinical assessment in the legal field: An empirical study of bias and limitations in forensic expertise. Front Psychol. 2015;6:1831. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01831

Burrow-sanchez J, Call ME, Adolphson SL, Hawken LS. School psychologists' perceived competence and training needs for student substance abuse*. J Sch Health. 2009;79(6):269-76. doi:10.1111/j.1746-1561.2009.00409.x

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Psychologists: Job outlook . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

Röthlin P, Birrer D, Horvath S, Grosse holtforth M. Psychological skills training and a mindfulness-based intervention to enhance functional athletic performance: design of a randomized controlled trial using ambulatory assessment. BMC Psychol. 2016;4(1):39. doi:10.1186/s40359-016-0147-y

American Psychological Association. Hot careers: Sports psychology .

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook. 

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

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• PsyD vs PhD

What is Salary Outlook for PhD in Psychology?

In any field, the time and financial commitments involved in earning a doctorate are intense. But for people in most careers, earning a doctoral degree represents the educational pinnacle of achievement. In the field of psychology, there are two main degrees that serve this role — the Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) or the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).

Let’s learn more about the Ph.D. in Psychology degree, including what prospective students should know about their options, as well as what types of salaries they can expect to earn with career avenues that will open up after they complete this challenging degree.

What’s On This Page

Psychology doctorate options, psychology phd career tracks, psychology phd salary overview.

The two main types of psychology doctorates, Ph.D. and Psy.D., are similar but have some notable differences, and those differences likely will guide the decision of which degree type is right for you.

Ph.D. degrees are the more common and traditional type of psychology doctorate, while the Psy.D. was developed in the early 1970s. The biggest difference is that most Psy.D. programs are built around ensuring that students gain hands-on clinical experience, such as by providing direct mental healthcare to actual patients and clients. This is less common in Ph.D. in Psychology programs, which tend to focus much more heavily on the academic and research side of the equation.

So generally, if your intended psychology career path will include a large dose, or consist entirely, of lab or academic research, or you hope to teach at the collegiate level, a Ph.D. in Psychology will probably be the best choice for you. That said, Ph.D. programs are often more rigorous and selective than Psy.D. programs, so your options may be limited by the institutions offering programs in your state and online.

It’s also important to note that Ph.D. programs will typically take at least five years and could take as long as eight years, while Psy.D. programs tend to be closer to five or six, with some being designed to take as little as three years. Most Ph.D. programs will require doctoral candidates to teach, which also usually helps offset the cost of their education, and graduate fellowships and assistantships are much less common in Psy.D. programs.

And given that the Ph.D. is the much more storied type of psychology doctorate, it still commands a certain cache in many circles that Psy.D. programs don’t yet inspire, so earning a Ph.D. often is a signal of higher stature within the field of psychology, which could allow professionals to boost their wage expectations.

There is no single career path for prospective Ph.D. in Psychology students to follow, and chances are good that whatever type of role or focus area you’re interested in, there are plenty of roles you could fill.

Ph.D. Career Options by Industry

Career paths and educational choices will depend significantly on each person’s individual areas of interest. For example, those who want to focus on research into the biological impacts of the human mind on behavior may want to consider Ph.D. programs in neuropsychology or experimental psychology. But those who want to work in the corporate world would probably find more value in an industrial-organizational Ph.D. in Psychology degree.

Here’s a look at some of the most common focus areas within psychology Ph.D. educational programs:

• Developmental
• Quantitative
• Industrial-Organizational
• Neuroscience
• Attention & Perception

Statistically speaking, those with higher academic achievement tend to make more money. In fact, according to the most recent estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median annual income level for those with a graduate or professional degree, such as a Ph.D. in Psychology, make about double the median income level for high school graduates. Those with advanced degrees also make considerably more than those who have only a bachelor’s degree — $72,492 vs. $54,628.

Let’s look at what a possible Ph.D. doctorate-holder could earn depending on their state, according to data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics . To calculate a rate across a few jobs, we calculated an average annual salary for the following jobs in each state (rates for a few jobs were not available in some states, so those were not included):

• Clinical, School or Counseling Psychologists
• General Psychologists
• Human Resources Managers
• Mental Health Social Workers
• Postsecondary Psychology Professors

Psychology Ph.D. wages are highest in New Jersey and California, and Rhode Island, D.C. and New York also offer average wages in the six figures. Average wages are lowest in Montana and West Virginia, though psychology Ph.D.-holders in those states can still expect to make more than the average worker.

Average annual psychology Ph.D. salary by state

The overall national average annual wage for the selected jobs is about $84,000, with Human Resources Managers having the highest average wages and Mental Health Social Workers averaging the lowest.

Average annual U.S. salary, selected psychology Ph.D. jobs

In every state, the selected psychology Ph.D. jobs are expected to see openings rise over the next several years. But in some states, growth will be much more rapid on average. Across the five jobs, the fastest average growth rate is expected in Utah, where the jobs will expand by an average of nearly 32%, while the slowest growth rate is projected to be in Mississippi.

Average projected growth in job openings by state, 2018-2028

The overall average growth rate of the five jobs is about 12% nationally, with job openings for Mental Health Social Workers growing by an average of nearly 17%, the highest of the five jobs.

Average U.S. projected growth in psychology Ph.D. job openings, 2018-2028

For most people, a high wage is far from the most important reason to pick a career or even a particular job. But the time and financial investment involved in earning a Ph.D. can be daunting, and knowing there’s a strong potential to earn a comfortable living for years to come is a good motivator to stick with the doctoral process.

10 PhD in Psychology Jobs

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Careers in psychology can last for decades, so you definitely want to pick the right path before you get started.

Psychology is a huge field, and jobs after a PhD in psychology cover a huge spectrum of interests, specialties, and industries.

You’re probably already well aware that those kind of qualifications don’t come cheap. According to 2020 data from NCES, the six or seven years you will spend in grad school getting that PhD or PsyD will run you anywhere from $73,000 to over $155,000 depending on the university.

Before you fork over that kind of cash, you probably want to know what jobs you can get with a PhD in psychology.

PhD in psychology careers are both lucrative and fulfilling. But they require specialization and focus, so you need to think about what area you want to concentrate in before you begin your PhD in psychology program.

These 10 doctorate in psychology jobs are some of the options on the table after you graduate.

1. Clinical Psychologist

Doctorate in psychology jobs don’t get any more iconic than work as a clinical psychologist. You want the office with a couch and people laying on it telling you about their childhood? This is the PhD in psychology career you pick to get it.

Clinical psychologists work directly with individuals and groups who need professional psychoanalysis to help them through mental health issues. Private practice isn’t the only option in this role, though. Plenty of clinical psychologists work in hospitals, clinics, and larger rehabilitation or long-term care facilities. You have a wide range of subspecialties you can choose from, ranging from addiction issues to couples counseling. Or you can remain a generalist, and enjoy the variety of challenges that walk in the door needing your assistance.

2. Research Psychologist

If you aren’t as much of a people-person, but are fascinated by behaviors and thought processes, then becoming a research psychologist may be the right pick for you. Research psychologists don’t engage in one-to-one therapy work, but instead investigate the causes and cures of mental illness in general. That can involve devising and executing psychological experiments, or mining huge databases of behavioral data to uncover trends.

3. Industrial/Organizational Psychologist

I/O psychologists make their mark in the psychology of work. Businesses and other organizations need to understand how group psychology effects productivity, happiness, and cohesion in the workplace. There is a science to workplace dynamics. A doctorate in psychology gives you the toolset to understand how groups interact under the hierarchy and pressure of a factory floor, a hospital ward, or a trading desk. Public and private companies can pay out big bucks for the right kind of advice to make their organizations more efficient and effective.

An online PhD degree can make it easy for you to build up the practical experience you need in this specialty even while you are still studying.

4. Forensic Psychologist

With shows like Criminal Minds and the popular CSI series making a splash in popular culture, a lot of people are pursuing a PhD in psychology with the idea of becoming a forensic psychologist. If you want to understand exactly how twisted and dark the human brain can become, a doctorate is definitely in your future.

But forensic psychologists aren’t usually chasing shadowy figures into dark allies and deducing where serial killers work and play. Forensic psychology is really a specialty that has to do with the psychology of law and legal process. That goes far beyond criminal justice, extending to jury evaluation in civil trials, public policy analysis, and even reviewing laws before they are passed to assess the impact on individuals and society.

5. Educational Psychologist

The human brain is in many ways a learning machine. How we process, absorb, and interpret the world around us is a constant consideration for all psychologists. But educational psychologists specialize in understanding how we acquire, process, and interpret knowledge.

Many educational psychologists work in schools, offering counseling to children, but it’s a broader role than that. Psychologists in this job may evaluate textbooks and curricula to make sure they are optimized for delivering information, or evaluate standardized tests to be sure they are accurately measuring knowledge. Educational policy and legislative development lean heavily on research pioneered by these doctorate in psychology jobs.

6. Developmental Psychologist

Developmental psychology is also concerned with how the brain learns and grows, but it’s a field with bigger fish to fry than just educational matters. It’s the study of mental processes across the lifespan, as the brain and sensory systems grow, mature, and eventually began to deteriorate. Developmental psychologists study and diagnose developmental mental health disorders, playing an important role in pediatric healthcare. But they are also active in researching some of the biggest issues at the other end of the lifespan, looking for ways to cure or treat Alzheimer's and other age-related psychological issues.

7. Social Psychologist

If you’ve ever wondered why a meme goes viral, the social psychology might be the PhD in psychology career for you.

Social psychologists take on some of the most fascinating challenges in the field: they specialize in how individuals both influence and are affected in their thinking by interacting with others. Group think is a thing, and how it happens is the province of the social psychologist. They examine how cultures come from shared thought patterns, and how those patterns both fulfill and constrain the thoughts of people within them.

Understanding social interactions and psychological effects is important for big companies, governments, and healthcare organizations. Social psychology researchers also have plenty of impact on marketing and sales campaigns, right down to picking out the colors for product logos.

8. Health Psychologist

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, health psychology has developed into one of the most fascinating branches of the field. The world has turned into a showcase of reactions to the coronavirus, from panic to outright denial, providing data that will feed future health psychology PhD dissertations for decades.

But it’s also a moment in which more people than ever need the kind of help and advice that health psychologists can offer. From counseling patients on ventilators and in isolation to advising public health agencies on the best campaigns to increase vaccine acceptance rates, health psychologists have had their shining moment thrust upon them. With new recognition of the importance of professional PhD counseling in healthcare, that moment isn’t likely to fade anytime soon.

9. Sports Psychologist

Becoming a sports psychologist is a dream job for any sports fan. Since there are a lot of sports fans in the United States, that makes it a particularly tough field to get into. But the rewards are massive.

Sports psychologists can and do work with pro athletes in any kind of competitive event, including big names who play for major teams. They might work for the teams themselves, advising on team building and coaching processes. In other cases, they work with individual athletes to maximize performance or help with injury recovery.

But sports psychologists play important roles in rehab and assisting amateur athletes, too. Not everyone needs to work for an NBA team to get satisfaction and deliver real results in this field.

10. Neuropsychologist

We saved the toughest job for last. Neuropsychologists explore the boundaries between the mental and the physical. They study the physiological processes underlying thoughts, perceptions, and feelings for a better understanding of how people think. That gives them an edge in determining when problems are purely psychological, or have a basis in physical injury or disease.

The reverse is also true, and neuropsychologists play an important role in research by helping the field of brain science interpret findings of imaging and experiments by translating them into effects on mental processes. New understanding of traumatic brain injury and diseases like Alzheimer's come out of neuropsychology research. It’s one of the most rewarding PhD in psychology jobs you will find.

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