masters vs phd vs psyd

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Masters vs. PsyD vs. PhD in Clinical or Counseling Psychology

General resources:.

The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies has a video that explains the differences between a PhD vs PsyD.
We recommend reading Chapter 2 “Choosing the PhD or PsyD program” in the Insider’s Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology . This book, written by Michael A. Sayette (a faculty member at Pitt!), and John C. Norcross (University of Scranton) provides much more details than we can go into here. You can buy this book online, and there is also a copy in Pitt’s Psych Dept. advising office, and if you aren’t a student at Pitt, your advising office may have a copy as well.
We also recommend watching the videos about psychology careers on drkit.org that explain many different psychology careers.
In this video Dr. Julie Quimby explains the differences between PsyD vs. PhDs.

Emphasis on Research

PhD programs tend to be fairly focused on research, whereas PsyD programs tend to be less focused on research and more centered on direct clinical service provision. (Masters level programs tend to involve no or minimal research.) However, there is variation and you should look at each program individually to see where it falls on the research spectrum - the book mentioned in the prior paragraph can help.

One exception is that a minority of accredited Psychology PhD programs offer a focus on qualitative rather than quantitative research, and may emphasize clinical skill development and intellectual scholarship grounded in psychological and philosophical literature over the production of original quantitative studies. Graduates of these programs who choose to stay in academia will be good fits for other programs that share a similar emphasis on humanistic psychology. You can learn more about humanistic psychology from APA’s division 32 , and you can learn more about psychoanalysis from APA’s division 39 . You can also learn where a PhD program falls in terms of their focus on research versus practice from the program’s online description. Programs that are heavily research-focused may describe themselves as “clinical science” programs, whereas those that balance research and practice training may describe themselves as espousing a “scientist-practitioner” model of training. On the practice end of the continuum, APA-accredited PsyD programs will often refer to themselves as espousing a “practitioner scholar” model of training, which will include some research training and independent dissertation research (often in the qualitative domain) along with a heavy focus on practice.

Our overall advice is that it is very helpful to try to clarify your level of interest in research before applying to and committing to a PhD program. Doing research as an undergrad, and potentially for a few years after college, will help with this. Surely there are many people who get a PhD in clinical psychology who eventually realize that they don’t want to go into a career in research. There are also some people who aren’t sure about how much they like research and find out in a PhD program that they like it more than they expected. However, it is helpful to try to learn about your level of interest in research before making a major life commitment to a graduate program.

If you know you are not interested in research, you should seriously consider whether a PhD program is right for you for the following reasons:

In the application process most schools will be screening applicants for their promise in doing research. So it will be hard to feign interest.
During graduate school the majority of your training will be to do research. If you do not like research, a doctoral degree is a long-term commitment to a challenging program, and so doing something you don't enjoy for much of that time will likely feel very taxing.
At many schools there will be implicit pressure if not explicit pressure to pursue a research-oriented career. (This is not something we condone, but will happen at many places.) If you do not want to go into research, this can feel ostracising and make you feel like you are making the ‘wrong’ choice for your career.

Comparisons of Masters, PsyD, and PhD

PsyD vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?

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

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

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

What Are PsyD and PhD In Psychology Degrees For?

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

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

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

Picking Between A Doctor of Psychology or PhD In Psychology Program

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

What is a PsyD?

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

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

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

Who Should Get a PsyD?

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

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

PsyD Careers and Salaries

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

Typical careers held by those with a PsyD degree include:

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

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

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

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

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

What is a PhD in Psychology?

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

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

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

Who Should Get a PhD in Psychology?

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

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

PhD in Psychology Careers and Salaries

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

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

Median Salary: $82,180

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

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

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

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

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

Best Psychology Schools

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

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

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

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

PsyD Vs PhD At A Glance

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

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

What to Look for In Psychology Doctoral Degree Programs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Applying to Psychology Doctoral Programs

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

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

Admission Requirements for PsyD and PhD Programs

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

Acceptance into both PsyD and PhD programs generally requires:

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

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Jonathan Golding, Ph.D. and Anne Lippert, PhD

Choosing Between a PhD and PsyD: Some Factors to Consider

Your degree choice will determine your training, as well as your career options..

Posted March 2, 2016 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

Like many people who are interested in psychology, you may be considering a career involving clinical psychology. This is a good choice because clinical psychology covers a broad range of interest areas—children, adults, families, sports, forensics and many more.

In addition, there are many paths you can take toward a degree involving clinical psychology. You can earn a master’s or doctoral degree and you can receive training in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, social work, sports psychology, or even medicine as a psychiatrist. Finally, your career path can lead to a job involving research, treatment (including therapy ), teaching, or a combination of these areas.

Today, I (Jonathan) want to focus on a question I hear a lot from students and others—should you get a PhD or PsyD? (I will hold off on other clinical psychology question, such as getting a Master’s or Doctoral degree for now.) This question is very important because it will impact how you will get trained in graduate school and the career options you will have once you earn your advanced degree. There are a number of websites that describe the distinction between a PhD and PsyD.

For brevity, let’s just be clear that:

A PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy , whereas a PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology.
PhD students are generally trained following the scientist-practitioner model that puts greater emphasis on research than PsyD students, while PsyD students are generally trained with greater emphasis on clinical work than PhD students.
A PhD degree is earned in 5-7 years, while a PsyD degree is earned in 4-6 years, keeping in mind that this includes 1 internship year.

Now that I presented the distinction, let’s get right to it—what are the critical factors to consider when deciding whether to be trained as a PhD or a PsyD? In presenting these factors, I stuck to the general premise that the individual making this decision could go to either a PhD or Psych program. Of course, the ability to choose a PhD or a PsyD program may not be available to all students, because they do not meet the criteria of a particular program. These criteria may include grades, GRE scores, or life experiences. In addition, it is very important to keep in mind that, as a rule, the number of students selected for graduate school is quite small for a PhD program (typically 10 or fewer) compared to a PsyD program (which can reach as high as 100).

Let's get back to the factors important for making a PhD-PsyD decision. The first factor you need to consider is whether you will be funded during your years in graduate school.

It is typically the case that students in a PhD program receive some type of funding. This includes tuition, a stipend (a fixed sum of money paid for being a Teaching or Research Assistant), or in many cases, both types of aid. This can add up to literally tens of thousands of dollars each year in financial assistance. You will not be rolling in dough, but the fact that you will not have to pay tuition alone is a big deal because it will significantly reduce any debt you might incur in graduate school. This can turn out to be very important in the sense that the amount of money you will earn as a PhD clinical psychologist may not be as high as you imagined. (Check out careersinpsych.com to see salary info.)

PsyD programs, in general, are unable to provide the same type of support as a PhD program. Part of this is tied to the fact that PhD students serve as Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants, but the same is generally not true of PsyD students at a particular school. In addition, because PhD programs have far fewer graduate students than PsyD programs, schools are able to afford to support PhD students.

I feel it is important to bring up an issue that takes into account the factor of funding—the length time you will be in graduate school. As stated above, the time in graduate school is typically shorter for a PsyD student than a PhD student. In a practical sense, this means that a PsyD student is able to get out and earn a real salary (on average) a year before a PhD student.

Now, this is where things get a bit interesting. Say you get out of school and earn about $60,000 with your PsyD. Of course, this is way more than the stipend at any PhD program; the stipend might be close to $20,000. However, the $60,000 you earn in your year out of graduate school will be needed to start paying back what could be at least $100,000 in tuition costs. To find out tuition costs for any APA accredited PhD or PsyD program, go to their website and look for the link that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data.” I think you will be very surprised to see the tuition costs at both PhD and PsyD programs. As stated earlier, a PhD student will typically not have any tuition debt hanging over their head. Thus the $40,000 extra in salary for the PsyD student in the year they are working compared to the stipend of a PhD student is offset by the tuition debt the PsyD student must repay.

The second factor to think about when deciding to apply to a PhD or PsyD program involves APA accreditation, for both graduate school and internship. APA states that, “Although graduating from an accredited program does not guarantee jobs or licensure for individuals, it may facilitate such achievement. It reflects the quality by which an educational institution or a program conducts its business. It speaks to a sense of public trust, as well as to professional quality.” Based on this statement, it would be wise to search out APA-accredited programs.

With regard to internships (that every PhD and PsyD student must complete), APA also notes that, “Students who take unaccredited internships are ineligible for positions with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the single largest employer of psychologists. They are also barred from civilian positions with the military. In addition, a handful of states require aspiring psychologists to have had an APA-accredited internship to be licensed, and many others require them to show that they completed the equivalent of an APA-accredited internship.” Once again, there are real advantages to your ultimate employment plans by completing an APA-accredited internship.

One nice thing about this second factor is that you have the ability to find out the percentage of students who received an APA accredited internship vs. non-APA non-accredited internship for any APA accredited PhD or PsyD program. Go to the program’s website and again look for the link that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data.” If a school does not list this information, it is not APA-accredited and should be viewed with caution.

The third factor to consider is what career path you would like to follow. On the one hand, if you want to conduct research both in graduate school and beyond, you should probably go for a PhD. On the other hand, if your career goals lean toward more practical work (e.g., being a therapist) with no real intention of conducting research in graduate school or upon graduation, you should probably get a PsyD. There is an important caveat to this distinction, however. You might be a person who wants to conduct research in a particular area (e.g., ADHD ) because you feel the research experience will help you understand a particular mental health issue. Moreover, you might hope to graduate and get a job working with individuals who reflect that research area, but you have no plans to continue your research work. In this case, a PhD is probably for you.

In presenting these important factors to think about if you are choosing to be a PhD or PsyD, we of course understand that each individual has unique circumstances that must be taken in account. Still, we hope that presenting these factors gives you some food for thought as you consider your ultimate career path in clinical Psychology.

Please note that the comments of Dr. Golding, Dr. Lippert, and the others who post on this blog express their own opinion and not that of the University of Kentucky.

Jonathan Golding, Ph.D. , is a professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky. Anne Lippert, Ph.D. , is a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Kentucky.

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Masters In Psychology vs PsyD

The History of the Degrees

What is a Master’s Degree in Psychology?

A master’s degree in psychology is a graduate degree that involves around two or three years of extra study beyond the typical education required to achieve an undergraduate degree. There are various options to choose from, including a Master’s in experimental psychology, a master’s in applied psychology, or a master’s in clinical psychology.

Some programs offer a ‘terminal degree’, which has been designed to offer students the chance to obtain some professional practice in their area of specialty. Other programs utilize master’s study as a way to prepare students for further study at doctoral level.

The requirements of a specific course can vary according to where you go, so you may have to carefully consider the outline of any course that you might be considering. Furthermore, you may have to choose between a non-thesis program and thesis program. The latter choice is generally recommended for individuals interested in further study, whereas a non-thesis could be ideal for those interested in immediately pursuing a career after graduation.

What is a Psy.D?

A Psy.D. Or ‘doctor of psychology’ degree, is a professional doctorate degree that has been designed as a way to prepare students and graduates for practice within the field of psychology. Originally, earning the degree could be done by completing one of two training models for clinical psychology. However, today, programs are no longer limited to clinical psychology alone, and many professional schools offer doctorates in organizational development, school psychology, counseling psychology and business psychology.

One of the highest-level degrees that are currently available within the field of psychology, a Psy.D. is an applied clinical doctorate degree. Until the 1960s, the Ph.D. in psychology was the only option available for professional psychologists looking to achieve their degree. However, concerns were raised that this option did not provide the correct preparation for those who wanted to pursue further clinical work. As a result, the 1970s saw the development of the Psy.D. Degree to train psychologists in practice.

1 – The Work You Can Do

Although having a master’s degree gives an individual more job opportunities than a bachelor’s level degree, options can still be limited if you are interested in entering professional psychology. A terminal master’s program typically opens doors for individuals into entry level jobs in fields including industrial-organizational psychology, mental health, and forensic psychology.

After earning a Psy.D. and passing the required licensing exams, an individual may treat and diagnose mental disorders, whilst conducting psychological tests, providing psychotherapy services and administering evaluations.

2 – Place of Employment

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment opportunities for psychologists within the United States is expected to grow significantly. However, the handbook also notes that those who hold master’s degrees in fields other than industrial-organizational psychology may ‘face keen competition’. The need for trained professionals to boost productivity and worker retention is expected to drive a huge demand for these psychologists.

Places where individuals with a Master’s in psychology may look for employment include universities, government locations, private businesses and colleges.

However, individuals with a Psy.D. could work within various settings, including mental health clinics, schools, government offices, hospitals, and some choose to open their own psychotherapy practice.

3 – Educational Areas

Those hoping to pursue a master’s degree in psychology will benefit from planning their course early. Before you are able to apply for a master’s program, you may be required to take a GRE or Graduate Record Examination, as well as the GRE psychology subject test. Usually, developmental psychology, experimental methods, and statistics are some of the common courses that students will expect to see within psychology graduate programs.

The educational requirements of a Psy.D have been carefully created to prepare psychologists for practice, teaching them how to utilize their understanding of the mind, behavior, and the science behind them in order to diagnose and treat mental illnesses. Many Psy.D programs can take approximately four to seven years to complete, and can contain various topics including diagnosis, clinical intervention, and psychological assessment.

Similarly to as is required with a Ph.D. in Psychology, Psy.D. students must participate in supervised practice, as well as supervised internship opportunities within a clinical setting. During the practice, many students will work on a part time basis beneath the eye of a licensed psychologist. The internship, on the other hand, is a full time position which typically lasts for at least one year. After their internship is completed, students are required to take national and state exams to become licensed as psychologists.

References:

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm
http://psychology.about.com/od/psychologygradschool/a/masters-degree-in-psychology.htm
http://psychcentral.com/lib/choosing-between-psyd-phd-psychology-graduate-degrees/0007876

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PsyD vs. PhD: Which Is Right for Me?

by Celeste Jones, PsyD, ABPP

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

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

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

View the PsyD program at George Fox University in Oregon

The Field of Clinical Psychology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Social Context

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

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

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

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

Career Opportunities

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

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

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

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

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

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

Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology

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

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

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

Financial Cost/Return on Investment

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

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

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

Closing Thoughts

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

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

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

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

Psychology Programs

What are the Differences Between a Masters and PhD in Psychology?

Choosing a path in psychology can be a bit like picking a route for a big journey. Should you stop at a master’s or go all the way to a PhD? While both are advanced degrees, they serve different purposes.

A master’s in psychology usually takes less time and provides a general overview, helping you get into various career paths within the field. A PhD, however, is a longer journey, focusing on specialized research and allowing you to become an expert in a specific area.

So, whether you are dreaming of counseling, teaching, or groundbreaking research, understanding the distinctions between these degrees is crucial. Let’s explore both options to find which suits you best!

Masters Vs. PhD in Psychology

A master’s in psychology typically takes 2-3 years and provides foundational knowledge and skills for various psychology-related careers. On the other hand, a PhD in psychology, taking 4-7 years, emphasizes research and advanced expertise, preparing graduates for academic, research, or specialized clinical positions.

To work in the field psychology, you need to have a minimum of master’s degree in psychology , and if you want to become a licensed psychologist , then a PhD will help you do that.

Master’s and Ph.D. degrees come under the heading of graduate studies. As mentioned above, a master’s degree in psychology typically takes between 2 to 3 years to complete in addition to an undergraduate in the same subject.

There are different types of psychology master’s degrees with the two most common being a Master’s of Art (M.A.) and a Master’s of Science (M.S.) . Without a master’s degree in psychology you cannot get licensed and hence you cannot begin practicing freely.

If your focus in psychology is more towards the applied side, you will need to complete an internship as well. Depending on the program, students may also need to prepare a thesis report towards the final months of a master’s program.

When it comes to a psychology doctorate degree , there are essentially 2 options – a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or a Psy. D (Doctor of Psychology) . A PhD in psychology is more research oriented, whereas a Psy. D is more focused towards the practical and clinical sides. However, we are limiting our discussion to a PhD in psychology.

Typically a PhD can take between 4 and 7 years depending on how you approach it and on your work schedule. A few years of course work and a final dissertation are almost always required in a PhD program. Some PhD programs even require students to complete an internship which formally marks the end of their doctorate program.

The Road to Get There

To get into a master’s level program in psychology, it is preferred that candidates possess an undergraduate background in psychology. At the undergraduate level, students are presented with the opportunity to choose their majors which is then carried forward in the master’s program.

The undergraduate degree is necessary for creating a strong background and laying the right foundation for students. Some masters programs prefer that candidates have gone through some practical training which usually takes the form of an internship.

A master’s degree in psychology can also serve as an inroad to a PhD in psychology. Many top university PhD programs require students to have a master’s degree in psychology under their belt as a pre-requisite.

However not all PhD programs have that requirement. Some programs offer students a terminal master’s degree in the process of a PhD. This is basically a specialized master’s program that prepares students in their area of expertise and professional practice.

It is often required by PhD level psychology programs for students to have some kind of prior practical experience. This could be an internship or an assistant level position to a senior psychologist. With added practical experience, the concepts taught at the doctorate level are easier to understand and make more sense.

After Graduation

Psychology is a vast and quick expanding field of science which means that demand for qualified psychologists is high. With a masters level psychology you may land some entry level jobs such as a research assistant, assistant to a supervisor, teacher’s assistant and so on. You may work with other psychologists and learn from them on the job.

Opportunities may also exist in mental health institutes, schools and the like. You may also sit-in some sessions with a senior as they treat other patients. Initially there will be a lot of interaction with seniors in a controlled environment.

With a PhD in psychology under your belt you may be exposed to a more challenging and dynamic work environment. You may be part of an experiment where patients are kept under closely monitored situations. Pharmaceutical companies may contract your services to work on drug trials for instance.

Depending on your chosen niche, you may spend time with patients at correctional facilities, detention centers and even prisons.

Which One is Right For You?

There is no right answer for this question. Both degree options have their own merits, requirements and results. What matters is your drive and motivation as well as your career aspiration. For starters, you need to have an interest in the subject of psychology, otherwise there may not be any point in doing a masters, let alone a PhD.

A masters can only take you so far career-wise, sooner or later you will need to rely on a PhD to take your career to the next level – therefore you need to consider your vision. The best way to answer this question is from a timeline point of view – you must prioritize your goals at the given time.

The Differences Between a PhD in Psychology and PsyD

Written by Jennifer Cione-Kroeschel

What Is a PhD in Psychology?

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

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

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

What Is a PsyD?

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

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

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

Similarities and Differences

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

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

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

Things to Consider When Choosing a PhD and PsyD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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August 30, 2023

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

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

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

Are you considering graduate school in psychology?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Resources:

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

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PsyD vs PhD

PsyD Frequently Asked Questions

What should potential students know about the PsyD and how it compares and contrasts with the Ph.D., what’s required for admission to a PsyD program, and how long do most programs take? We’ll answer those questions and more below.

In This Section

PsyD vs Ph.D. in Psychology

Steps to take to get my PsyD

What can I do with my PsyD?

How much do you make with a PsyD?

How long does it take to get a psyd after a masters, is a psyd as good as a ph.d., is a psyd a doctor, can you get a psyd without a masters, can you teach with a psyd, do psyd programs require a master’s, what jobs can i get with a psyd, what jobs can you get with a psyd in clinical psychology, is a psyd a psychologist, can i get a psyd without a masters, can a psyd diagnose, can psyd write prescriptions, which is better psyd or ph.d., is someone with a psyd a doctor, can you get a psyd online, how many years is a psyd program, are psyd programs hard to get into, do you have to get a master’s before a psyd, can i get a psyd with a masters in counseling, can you become a psychologist with a psyd, is it worth it to get a psyd, psyd vs ph.d.

PsyD focuses on clinical training and once you finish it, you become a doctor of psychology. On the other hand, a PhD student must prepare a master thesis and a doctoral dissertation , it focuses primarily on research. ( See more PsyD vs PhD degree ) – Burcu Arslan , B.A. Psychology, Bogazici University (2017)

As a terminal degree in psychology, the Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) is a doctoral degree that can provide a crucial stepping stone for a long and happy career in the analysis of human behavior. Though a Psy.D is a bit newer than the more traditional, academic-minded Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD), it’s quickly become a very popular degree option for psychology professionals and learners. Learn More.

What can I do with my PsyD?

As a terminal degree, meaning the highest possible academic achievement in the field, a PsyD is a doctoral degree that can provide the foundation of many successful and challenging career paths, including becoming a licensed clinical psychologist, working in academia or even helping hold criminals accountable for their actions. Learn More.

A common career path for those with a PsyD is becoming a licensed psychologist, and the median annual wage in the U.S. for psychologists is $79,010. Industrial-organizational psychologists, another possible career path after a PsyD, earn a median annual amount of $97,260, while clinical, school and counseling psychologists earn $76,990 per year.

At least 4 years. Students with master’s degrees are able to complete the typical PsyD program in as little as 4 years, though it’s common for a PsyD to take up to 6 years . The time to complete a PsyD varies based on the program and what real-world experience is required, as well as the student’s desired focus area and whether they are able to attend full time. A PsyD generally can be completed more quickly than a Ph.D. Learn more .

In many cases, yes, especially for those who wish to immediately begin a career as a licensed clinical psychologist. The chief difference between a PsyD and a Ph.D. is the program approach, with Ph.D. programs being more focused on academics and PsyD programs putting their focus on hands-on experience. Individuals who intend to teach at the postsecondary level or conduct clinical research would find a Ph.D. to be the preferred degree in most cases, though.

Any person who has a doctoral-level degree could well refer to themselves as “Dr.” — and ask others to do the same. This goes for those who have earned a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree as well. It’s important to note, however, that this title does not mean a PsyD holder is a medical doctor, as the training and education required to earn a PsyD is not the same as medical school, and most states do not permit psychologists to do things like write prescriptions.

It’s often recommended by PsyD programs that students complete master’s level work before beginning any doctoral program, including the PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology. However, many programs across the U.S. offer joint degree programs in which students will spend the first couple of years of their PsyD program earning their master’s degree, and many other schools don’t explicitly require applicants to have a master’s degree. Learn More .

Yes, but it’s unlikely that a PsyD alone will be a strong enough qualification to earn a full-time, tenure-track teaching position at a college or university. The Doctor of Psychology degree was designed specifically for individuals whose career goal is the practice of clinical psychology, and it was meant as an alternative to the heavy academic focus of traditional Ph.D. programs.

In some cases, yes, but many schools offer joint degree programs in which students spend the first portion of their time completing masters-level work so that they essentially finish two degrees in one. And not all PsyD schools require a master’s degree , though it’s generally considered a boost for applications.

Most individuals with a PsyD degree will work in clinical psychology, which could include working in schools, healthcare settings or in private practice. Another popular job for PsyD holders is as an industrial-organizational psychologist, which is usually a less hands-on role but may be more lucrative than others. Other potential job titles include counselor, therapist, teacher, and many others.

A PsyD in clinical psychology is a doctoral program that focuses on the hands-on practice and theory of psychology and human behavior. As such, most careers in Psychology for people with that degree will involve working directly with clients or patients in helping them understand why they do the things they do and potentially assisting them in altering their behavior. Specific job titles include clinical psychologist, therapist, counselor, and many others.

In most states, a person cannot legally call themselves a psychologist without first becoming licensed in the state. This means that in addition to completing the PsyD, the person must have at least 1 year of supervised professional experience in addition to passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Before they’ve done that, a person with a PsyD is simply someone who has finished a rigorous academic track.

Yes, but students who pursue a PsyD track before completing their master’s degree may limit the number of schools they can apply to; that’s because some schools do require a master’s, and most of them consider master’s degrees beneficial in the application process. Also, many schools today offer joint MS/PsyD degrees, so it may be possible to complete graduate work while you do your doctorate.

One of the most important functions served by psychologists who have earned a PsyD before beginning their practice and becoming licensed is to study human behavior and diagnose disorders and other issues, so being able to identify and isolate emotional and mental disorders is crucial for most PsyD’s. But while they can and should diagnose mental and behavioral problems, most PsyDs cannot prescribe medications.

In most states, no, though five states — Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, New Mexico, and Louisiana — do permit some licensed clinical psychologists to prescribe medication. All of those states require applicants not only to have a PsyD but to complete a post-doctoral Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology in order to achieve prescriptive authority. In all other states, PsyDs are not permitted to write prescriptions, though efforts have been made in other states to expand prescriptive authority to psychologists.

The answer to this question depends on the career goals of the person asking. If a prospective psychology student is certain that their career path will mostly involve working directly with clients or patients, diagnosing their emotional and behavioral problems and devising plans to improve their lives, then a PsyD degree is probably better. If the person has any desire to conduct clinical research or teach at the postsecondary level, then a Ph.D. may be the better option. Learn More .

Yes, as a doctorate-holder, a person who has earned a PsyD could definitely refer to themselves as “Dr.,” though it’s good to note that PsyDs are not medical doctors and in most states cannot prescribe medication or conduct medical treatments. But like their PhD-holding counterparts, PsyD-earners have completed doctoral education and therefore are technically doctors.

Yes, increasingly schools are offering fully online or hybrid Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs that still meet the intended purpose of a PsyD program, which is to provide students with hands-on experience in the practice of psychology. Each school handles things a bit differently, but because a PsyD is designed specifically to focus more on clinical work than academics, the idea of an online PsyD is actually quite logical, since the degree is one in which classroom work, while important, is not necessarily the only focus. See 5+ Best Online Psyd Programs .

A PsyD program typically takes at least four years to finish but can take as long as six years. It depends on whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time. Also, if you come into the PsyD program with most prerequisites completed, the program can take closer to four years. Students who have to pay for their program out of pocket may need to take breaks to save money, so they could take longer to complete their PsyD.

Getting into a PsyD program is typically easier to get into than a Ph.D. program. Ph.D. programs in psychology tend to be highly selective, taking 10 or fewer students per year. Ph.D. programs across the country have a 13% acceptance rate. On the other hand, PsyD programs usually accommodate more students, as many as 100 per class per year. With more spots available, the average acceptance rate is approximately 40%.

Most students entering a PsyD program have a master’s degree in psychology or a related field. However, there are some PsyD programs that allow students to enter with a bachelor’s degree. Your education will include working on your master’s in psychology and then your Psy.D. This is known as a joint or dual degree program and can reduce the time you spend in school to earn the two degrees.

The type of master’s degree that is required to be accepted into a PsyD program will depend on the individual university program. However, many PsyD programs will accept students into their programs with a master’s degree in counseling or clinical psychology. Check with the specific program you are interested in to determine which master’s degrees they will accept for entry into the program.

Yes, in fact, this is the best educational step you can take in your journey to becoming a psychologist. In every state, professional licensure is required to practice as a psychologist, and completing a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) fulfills the educational requirements set forth by the states. But it’s important to note that most states prefer applicants to complete their doctoral training in programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), while a couple of them will only grant licenses to those who have APA-accredited degrees. States also will grant licensure to those who have completed Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) degrees in psychology, but state requirements for supervised professional experience mean that Psy.D. degrees are typically a better investment for those who want to practice psychology professionally, as most Psy.D. programs are designed to provide exactly that type of hands-on experience.

You have two doctoral options in psychology; the PsyD or Ph.D. The PsyD is a newer degree program that started in the 1970s that prioritizes clinical therapy. The Ph.D. is a more traditional doctoral degree that focuses more on teaching skills and research at the university level. Learn more .

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology [2024 Guide]

Are you contemplating the career benefits of a PsyD vs. PhD?

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Both of these often respected and fulfilling degree paths can lead to exciting things. Let’s explore the differences.

Comparing a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology – Key Differences

psychologist talking to a patient during therapy session

You may be considering a doctorate degree in psychology because you’re simply fascinated by the human mind. You may also be confident that you can use your passion for helping people to carve out a very fulfilling career.

It’s important to be very methodical and targeted when choosing your degree path if you’re going to be working in a doctorate-level role. Let’s compare and contrast PsyD and PhD degrees.

A PsyD is considered an “alternate” degree path that puts an emphasis on the clinical and applied aspects of the field. A PsyD is likely a good fit if your goal is to work within a professional practice or counseling setting.

PsyD graduates typically work in clinical settings like psychiatry practices, rehabilitation centers, public schools, universities, or prisons. The coursework for a PsyD revolves heavily around applying things like evidenced-based research and standards of practice in real-world settings.

PsyD programs are designed to help students learn how to apply many decades of research to patient settings. Original research is not the primary goal of someone pursuing a PsyD. Yes, you will likely do independent research as part of your learning path. However, most of your focus will likely be on learning to apply your education in clinical settings.

A traditional or online PhD in psychology is often a natural fit for someone with an acute interest in the research side. This path may appeal to you if you love to break down data to discover insights. The insights that you discover through your independent research could help to move the field forward.

Many PhD holders work in research settings where they design and conduct tests and surveys to gain better understandings of things like human behavior, the effectiveness of various treatments, and underlying causes of psychological disorders.

PhD graduates are also qualified to work as instructors at colleges and universities. That means that they can apply what they’ve learned through study and research to help train the next generation of psychologists and researchers.

Many healthcare and government institutions also hire PhDs for consulting duties. The expertise that a PhD in the field of psychology can bring to the table is important for forming policies and decisions at both private and public institutions.

Ultimately, it is important to know what is a PsyD and what is a PhD in psychology before determining the best degree path for yourself.

Doctoral Psychology Careers & Salaries

What types of job roles are open to people with doctoral degrees in psychology? Roles can be filled at private practices, mental health facilities, schools, universities, and research facilities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median annual wage for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is $79,820. Here’s a look at some specific annual salary expectations based on government data:

Salary expectations should be based on years of experience and the type of institution you’re employed by during your career.

PsyD vs PhD Salary Differences

psychologist and patients during group therapy

It’s not an apples-to-apples comparison when it comes to salaries for these two degree paths. The setting that you choose to work in will heavily influence your salary.

Potential for promotions and raises when moving from a general counseling role or social-work role. A private practice can often be the most lucrative option because you are earning revenue based on patient volume.

PsyD graduates can often expect generous pay when working as corporate or sports psychologists.

college professor with her students in class

PhD graduates can typically command the highest salaries when leading research projects. Some PhD graduates earn six figures as tenured college professors.

Both PsyD and PhD candidates have very similar overall salary projections. However, the reality of your salary potential with either psychology degree online comes down to the type of setting you choose to work in.

Psychology Specializations & Concentrations

phd in psychology student in university library

Most people who pursue PsyD and PhD degrees want to apply their skills to some very specific passions and interests. Here’s a look at some areas of focus for doctoral candidates:

Clinical psychologists work one-on-one with patients to treat and diagnose mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They often work in practices, hospitals, and care facilities.
Forensic psychologists apply their skills to the legal arena. They lend their expertise to things like investigations and court cases. Government agencies and local law enforcement routinely consult with forensic psychologists when working on cases or investigating crimes.
Mental health psychologists use their highly specialized training to evaluate a person’s mental health. This is done through recognized and respected methods for interviewing, evaluating, and testing.
Organizational psychologists provide services to organizations and businesses looking to increase productivity through psychological principles. An organizational psychologist would come into the picture to study productivity trends, management style, and employee morale to get an understanding of a company. Next, strategic recommendations are given for how to make improvements using techniques for motivation, cooperation, and productivity.
Sports psychologists are experts at understanding how performance is impacted by both psychological and physical factors. This multifaceted specialty requires an understanding of the relationships between physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, and psychology. Sports psychologists often work with coaches and trainers to create comprehensive plans for individual athletes and teams. They are often employed by sports teams, gyms, high schools, and universities.

A psychologist’s training and skills are tested every day on the job! The rewarding part is that all of these roles allow psychology professionals to see the impact of their work.

Psychology Licensing and Certification

phd in psychology students taking an exam

Yes, you should become very familiar with the various licensing and accreditation bodies once you get deeper into your pursuit of becoming a working, licensed psychologist. It’s important to take licensing and certification seriously because your ability to legally act and speak as a psychologist depends on them!

The American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) is what you might call the primary certifying body for professional psychologists in the United States. This certification shows a psychologist is credible and can be taken seriously. In addition, this certification is essentially a default requirement for being employed or representing yourself as a psychologist.
The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) oversees standards for the licensing and certification of all psychologists throughout both the United States and Canada. Yes, every single practicing psychologist in both countries needs to meet the association’s standards before being allowed to formally practice in their field. The ASPPB administers the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is the licensing exam developed by the ASPPB. The exam exists to certify that post-doctoral students are legally permitted to practice psychology. The ASPPB’s recommended minimum passing score is 500 out of a potential score of 800.

The bottom line is that you cannot be a practicing psychologist in the United States without having approval from the ABPP and ASPPB. Fulfilling all requirements and passing required exams are as important as graduating from a doctoral program!

It’s also worth looking into a school with regional accreditation through an organization recognized by CHEA.org .

Choosing Between a PhD in Psychology or a PsyD Degree

phd in psychology student studying on her laptop

It’s time to get serious about making that hard choice between a PhD and PsyD. Choosing as early as possible can help you to narrow down your school search and get all of your paperwork in. Let’s look at the requirements for each program.

A dissertation is required.
Lower acceptance rate (approximately 15 percent).
More funding, stipends, and support are generally provided by institutions.
Generally requires 90 to 120 credit hours.
A dissertation isn’t always required.
Higher acceptance rate (approximately 40 percent).
No special stipends are generally given to PsyD candidates apart from standard FAFSA
Generally requires 70 to 114 credit hours.

psychologist listening to her patient during counseling

It can seem that a PsyD is easier to obtain at first glance. However, it’s more important to focus on which type of program is going to provide you with the preparation and training you need to be able to contribute to your chosen field of expertise.

It’s not that a PhD is more difficult to obtain. What we’re really looking at is the fact that a PhD simply requires candidates to dive into research in a more specific way than clinically minded PsyD candidates.

Yes, it does typically take less time to obtain a PsyD. This may make this degree path more attractive to you if you’re interested in getting into your field as quickly as possible.

PsyD vs PhD Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for PsyD and PhD candidates are similar. However, they are not interchangeable. It is typically much more difficult to be accepted into a PhD program than a PsyD program. The main reason is that PhD programs accept a fraction of the candidates.

Actual admissions requirements vary by school. However, many of the requirements are universal across all institutions. Here’s a peek at what you’ll probably need to prepare.

A bachelor’s degree
Transcripts from all previous universities attended
Letters of recommendation
A minimum undergraduate GPA (varies by school)
Personal essay
GRE scores (varies by school)
A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in a related field
A minimum undergraduate GPA (typically 3.0)

What’s the Difference in PsyD vs. PhD reputation?

Both are usually highly respected. A PhD is typically viewed as a research-oriented degree.

A PsyD is typically viewed as an appropriate degree for someone with clinical aspirations.

What Jobs Can I Get With a Doctoral Degree in Psychology?

A variety of clinical and research positions are available to professionals with doctoral degrees in psychology.

The list includes psychologists, psychology researchers, school psychologists, sports psychologists, organizational psychologists, and forensic psychologists.

What is a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)?

A PsyD is a professional doctoral degree that is designed to prepare graduates for careers in clinical settings.

Graduates often take leadership roles in institutions that diagnose and support mental health.

What is a PhD in Psychology?

psychologist comforting her patient during therapy

A psychology PhD is a doctor of philosophy in the field of psychology.

The rigorous training and research involved in this program is designed to prepare a student to work in clinical, research, and academic settings.

Should I Continue With a Graduate Psychology Degree Program?

A graduate psychology degree program can greatly expand your career prospects. This may be a worthwhile pursuit if your goal is to become a respected expert in your field.

Getting an additional degree may enable you to go from “support” roles to leadership roles in the field of psychology.

What are the PsyD Requirements to Graduate?

You will need to complete all of the required credit hours. This typically ranges from 70 to 114 total hours. In addition, you may be required to complete a dissertation.

Most PsyD programs require an internship or practicum to provide hands-on experience.

What are the PhD in Psychology Requirements to Graduate?

phd in psychology student studying on her laptop in library

It will be necessary to complete all credit hours required by your program. This may be as many as 120 credit hours for a PhD program.

You will also need to complete a dissertation related to the specialty you’re pursuing.

What are Key Differences Between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Choosing between a PhD and PsyD in clinical psychology comes down to a choice of research versus hands-on application.

Someone who is interested in research or academic pursuits is probably better suited for a PhD. Someone looking to practice in a clinical setting that relies on one-on-one interactions with patients is probably better suited for a PsyD.

That’s not to say that there’s no overlap. Yes, a person with a PhD can fulfill roles that require clinical expertise. Additionally, graduates of PsyD programs do sometimes end up in research roles.

Getting Your PsyD or PhD Online

psychologist talking to a patient in his office

Can you really dive into the human psyche on a doctoral level from home? Yes, many colleges and universities now provide doctoral programs in psychology that can be completed remotely.

Both PsyD and PhD programs usually require heavy reading and research. That means that you’ll probably be doing a lot of self-guided study as you pursue your online psych degree . This is one of the reasons why a doctorate in this field may actually be ideal for a syllabus comprised of online coursework.

An PhD or PsyD programs online can balance the self-guided nature of doctorate-level psychology studies with the expertise and guidance of trained, qualified professors in the field.

It may be necessary to complete hands-on training in a clinical setting as part of your degree requirements. This is something that colleges and universities can assist you with once you enter into a doctorate program. It’s possible that you’ll be able to complete clinical work that satisfies your degree requirement locally.

Great minds are interested in studying minds! You may be a perfect fit for an online PsyD or PhD program. Find a school that will help you make big contributions to the field of psychology to get on the perfect degree path.

Frequently Asked Questions

Psyd in clinical psychology, how does a psyd differ from a phd.

A PsyD is a doctorate in professional psychology whereas a PhD in Clinical Psychology is a doctorate degree in philosophy with a specialization in clinical psychology.

Hear from Dr. Stacey Lambert, chair of the Clinical Psychology Department and vice president of academic affairs, about how a student can determine whether a PsyD or PhD is a better fit for them. Watch below!

The primary difference between the two types of programs is that a PsyD program generally places greater emphasis on clinical training early in the program while a PhD program, in many cases, will have greater emphasis on research involvement. For example, most PhD programs in clinical psychology require students to complete a master’s research project as well as a doctoral research project dissertation. In most PsyD programs, students complete a doctoral-level research project, which tends to be smaller in scope than a dissertation.

All APA-accredited doctoral programs are expected to assure trainees demonstrate research competencies, and William James is no exception. With our PsyD in Clinical Psychology program, you will be involved in clinical coursework and training starting in your first year. We also encourage you to become involved in faculty research early in preparation for your doctoral project. While called a doctoral project rather than dissertation, the length and quality of the projects completed by our students are very similar to dissertations produced by PhD students. In fact, a number of our students have published articles stemming from their doctoral research projects.

Finally, as you are making your decision between a PhD and PsyD, consider that many PhD programs have greater funding opportunities, but tend to have much smaller programs and much lower acceptance rates. If you would like to talk more in depth on whether the William James PsyD in Clinical Psychology is the right fit for you, please reach out to our admissions team at [email protected] .

Can I apply for this program without a master’s degree?

Yes! The PsyD in Clinical Psychology program does not require a master’s degree for admission. In 2021, approximately 67% of the incoming clinical psychology students did not report a graduate GPA in their application.

Prerequisites for this program are:

A four-year baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
Basic coursework necessary to apply. ( See details here ).
Academic achievement at the undergraduate and/or graduate levels. While there is no minimum GPA requirement to apply, a 3.0 out of 4.0 is expected.

Is the GRE required?

The GRE is optional for students applying to the PsyD in Clinical Psychology for Fall 2024. It is not required for admission. If you have taken the GRE and feel that your strong scores would enhance your application, please feel free to submit. Please note: If you choose to enter self-reported General GRE scores, an official test score report will become a required component of your application.

When will I be working in the field during the program?

As a student in the PsyD in Clinical Psychology program, you will begin working in the field during your first year. Fourth-year and fifth-year students can choose between two different options for their clinical training experience.

See the chart below for specific details about each year’s field education requirements or learn more here .

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Master's vs. PhD: Navigating the Educational Landscape
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Decoding Higher Education: MPhil vs PhD vs MSc vs MA vs MRes vs MS degrees
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COMMENTS

Masters vs. Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Finally, a Ph.D. (a Doctor of Philosophy degree) can be obtained in the same domains as a Master's degree, and puts greater emphasis on research than a PsyD. The time frame for completing each ...
Psy.D. Vs. Ph.D.: Which Is The Right Fit For You?
A Psy.D., or a Doctor of Psychology, is also a doctoral degree that focuses on application. A Psy.D. program prepares students to provide services for patients and clients, rather than a focus on ...
Masters vs. PsyD vs. PhD in Clinical or Counseling Psychology
The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies has a video that explains the differences between a PhD vs PsyD. We recommend reading Chapter 2 "Choosing the PhD or PsyD program" in the Insider's Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. This book, written by Michael A. Sayette (a faculty member at Pitt ...
MS vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?
PsyD Vs PhD at a Glance. Individuals wishing to earn a doctorate have another option besides a PhD in Psychology. They may pursue a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology). Selecting which to earn depends on the student's educational and career interests. In general, PsyD programs: Focus heavily on applied psychology; Take 4-7 years to complete
PsyD vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?
PsyD Vs PhD At A Glance. Choosing between a PsyD and a PhD is a matter of personal choice, and your answer depends upon your personal goals. Though both doctor of psychology degrees provide you with the education, training and credentials to put you at the pinnacle of the field, there are important differences, including:
Differences Between Psyd And Phd Programs
A Psy.D. degree prepares students for careers as clinical psychologists while a Ph.D. trains students in research and teaching. The Psy.D. embraces the practitioner-scholar model and applies psychological science to individuals and groups while the Ph.D. emphasizes analytical research in the field. Psy.D. students work as clinical psychologists ...
PsyD vs. PhD Programs: Key Differences and Similarities
PsyD Programs: Typically take between 4 to 6 years to complete. Include more clinical training hours and less emphasis on dissertation research. Often involve practical internships or externships as part of the curriculum. PhD Programs: Can take 5 to 7 years to complete, depending on the research component.
Choosing Between a PhD and PsyD: Some Factors to Consider
As stated above, the time in graduate school is typically shorter for a PsyD student than a PhD student. In a practical sense, this means that a PsyD student is able to get out and earn a real ...
PsyD vs. PhD Programs (Differences & Similarities)
A PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology, is a professional doctorate that focuses on practical skills and clinical training. It prepares graduates for direct patient care. On the other hand, a PhD in Clinical Psychology is a research-oriented doctorate that emphasizes theoretical knowledge and contributes to the advancement of the field through research.
PsyD Vs PhD Programs
Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology) often focuses on research, theory, and teaching. While both can lead to therapeutic roles, their primary goals differ: PsyD trains clinicians, while PhD prepares researchers and academics. PsyD programs are much newer. While Ph.D. programs in psychology date back to the late 1800s, PsyD programs weren ...
PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology: What's the Difference?
A PsyD program focuses on clinical training, while a PhD in psychology is more oriented towards scientific research. It is essential to evaluate your goals for obtaining a graduate degree and choose the program that best aligns with those goals. Although many PsyD-holders work in research or teaching roles, and many non-clinical PhD-holders ...
Masters In Psychology vs PsyD
A Psy.D. Or 'doctor of psychology' degree, is a professional doctorate degree that has been designed as a way to prepare students and graduates for practice within the field of psychology. Originally, earning the degree could be done by completing one of two training models for clinical psychology.
PhD vs PsyD: What's the Difference?
If you are interested in pursuing a doctoral degree as a psychologist, there are two main options to consider: the PsyD and the PhD.
PsyD vs. PhD: Which Is Right for Me?
PhD programs may have more students interested in becoming academic scholars and college faculty members (which do not necessarily require licensure), while PsyD programs may have more students interested in clinical practice and the delivery of psychological services with clients. Within clinical service, the settings in which psychologists ...
Masters Vs PhD in Psychology
Masters Vs. PhD in Psychology. A master's in psychology typically takes 2-3 years and provides foundational knowledge and skills for various psychology-related careers. On the other hand, a PhD in psychology, taking 4-7 years, emphasizes research and advanced expertise, preparing graduates for academic, research, or specialized clinical ...
The Differences Between a PhD in Psychology and PsyD
The main difference between a PhD in Psychology and PsyD is that a PhD emphasizes research while a PsyD prepares student for practicing psychology. PsyD programs focus on applying scientific knowledge directly to the practice of psychology, while PhD programs study the theories behind psychology. While PsyD students will have classes in human ...
Graduate School in Psychology: PsyD or Psy Phd, Which Is Right for You?
PhD graduates pursue academic careers as professors, researchers, and scholars. They might teach at universities, conduct research, and mentor students. Some work at research institutions, government agencies, and private organizations. PhD programs are typically longer than PsyD programs, taking five to seven years to complete.
PsyD Frequently Asked Questions
The chief difference between a PsyD and a Ph.D. is the program approach, with Ph.D. programs being more focused on academics and PsyD programs putting their focus on hands-on experience. Individuals who intend to teach at the postsecondary level or conduct clinical research would find a Ph.D. to be the preferred degree in most cases, though.
PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology [2024 Guide]
PsyD vs PhD Admissions Requirements. The admissions requirements for PsyD and PhD candidates are similar. However, they are not interchangeable. It is typically much more difficult to be accepted into a PhD program than a PsyD program. The main reason is that PhD programs accept a fraction of the candidates.
What's the Difference Between a PhD in Psychology and a PsyD?
Like a PhD in Psychology, the Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) prepares students to practice psychology in a wide range of clinical settings. A PsyD, however, focuses more on clinical practice and less on research. As a result, this degree requires fewer research and statistics courses and thus takes less time. PhD in Psychology.
Clinical Psychology PsyD vs. Clinical Psychology PhD
The primary difference between the two types of programs is that a PsyD program generally places greater emphasis on clinical training early in the program while a PhD program, in many cases, will have greater emphasis on research involvement. For example, most PhD programs in clinical psychology require students to complete a master's ...
Doctoral degrees in psychology: How are they different, or not so
By Daniel S. Michalski, PhD, and Garth Fowler, PhD. Doctoral degrees in psychology offer individuals preparation to conduct scientific research, professional practice or both. Most individuals receive either the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree. Although each of these degrees is designed to engage students in ...
PsyD vs PhD in Psychology: Comparison of Requirements and Salary in
Taking a PsyD vs PhD in Psychology can lead to different opportunities for psychology graduates. Graduates who complete masters in forensic psychology online, for instance, can go on to take either of these advanced degrees.Since the demand for psychologists is expected to increase by up to 6% from 2021 to 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022), having an advanced degree can always be an ...

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Masters vs. PsyD vs. PhD in Clinical or Counseling Psychology

Emphasis on Research

Comparisons of Masters, PsyD, and PhD

PsyD vs PhD: Which Psychology Degree Should You Get?

What Are PsyD and PhD In Psychology Degrees For?

Picking Between A Doctor of Psychology or PhD In Psychology Program

What is a PsyD?

Who Should Get a PsyD?

PsyD Careers and Salaries

What is a PhD in Psychology?

Who Should Get a PhD in Psychology?

PhD in Psychology Careers and Salaries

Best Psychology Schools

PsyD Vs PhD At A Glance

What to Look for In Psychology Doctoral Degree Programs

Applying to Psychology Doctoral Programs

Admission Requirements for PsyD and PhD Programs

Choosing Between a PhD and PsyD: Some Factors to Consider

Masters In Psychology vs PsyD

The History of the Degrees

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Steps to take to get my PsyD

How much do you make with a PsyD?

What can I do with my PsyD?

PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology [2024 Guide]

Comparing a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology – Key Differences

Doctoral Psychology Careers & Salaries

PsyD vs PhD Salary Differences

Psychology Specializations & Concentrations

Psychology Licensing and Certification

Choosing Between a PhD in Psychology or a PsyD Degree

PsyD vs PhD Admissions Requirements

What’s the Difference in PsyD vs. PhD reputation?

What Jobs Can I Get With a Doctoral Degree in Psychology?

What is a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)?

What is a PhD in Psychology?

Should I Continue With a Graduate Psychology Degree Program?

What are the PsyD Requirements to Graduate?

What are the PhD in Psychology Requirements to Graduate?

What are Key Differences Between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Getting Your PsyD or PhD Online

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for this program without a master’s degree?