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

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

Clinical psychology is a specialized field within psychology that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. An online doctorate degree program in clinical psychology is a highly advanced and rigorous program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to work as licensed clinical psychologists .

An online Ph.D. or PsyD in clinical psychology will cover a wide range of topics, including abnormal psychology, psychotherapy, neuropsychology, and more. Students will also gain hands-on experience through clinical practicum and internship opportunities, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

One of the primary benefits of earning an online doctorate degree in clinical psychology is the ability to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges. Graduates of the program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, helping their clients lead happier, healthier lives.

There are a variety of careers available for individuals with a doctorate degree in clinical psychology, including positions as licensed clinical psychologist, therapy director, research psychologist, and many others. These careers offer a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals while also advancing the field of psychology.

Counselingpsychology.org offers an in-depth ranking of Doctorate Degrees in Clinical Psychology based on a comprehensive methodology. Our methodology takes into account various factors including completion rate, cost of living, faculty experience, program diversity, and the competitiveness of the institution. We strive to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information possible to ensure that prospective students can make informed decisions. For more details on our methodology, please visit Counselingpsychology.org's Methodology Page .

Widener University

Widener University is located in Chester, PA, and is a private university. It offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to its student body of 6,000 students. Widener also offers a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology, making it a great option for aspiring psychologists.

Pacific University

Pacific University is a private university located in Forest Grove, Oregon. It is a mid-sized university with over 4,000 students enrolled, offering a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, including a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Pacific University is known for providing an excellent academic experience and a vibrant campus life.

University of Indianapolis

The University of Indianapolis is a private university located in Indiana. With a student body of around 6,000, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology provides students with the knowledge and skills to practice in a variety of settings. The university has a strong commitment to research and service-learning, providing students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in their field.

University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public research university located in Gainesville, Florida. With nearly 50,000 students, it is one of the largest schools in the United States. UF offers over 200 majors, and is renowned for its Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology. UF has a long history of excellence in academics, athletics, and research and is consistently ranked among the best public universities in the country.

Adelphi University

Located on a picturesque campus in Garden City, NY, Adelphi University's Department of Psychology offers both a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology. These highly competitive programs provide students with comprehensive training in research, assessment, and evidence-based interventions. With a strong emphasis on diversity and social justice, students are prepared to become leaders in the field of mental health.

Doctorate degrees in a particular field require in-depth study, either with a research-oriented (Ph.D.) or a clinically oriented (PsyD) approach.

The Ph.D. focuses on academic and scholarly study, requiring extensive research and writing. It takes four to six years to complete, allowing two years for classes and two to four years for research.

The PsyD focuses more on practical application through clinical practicum and internships. It involves 1,500 hours of practicum at a minimum. The degree takes most students three years to complete.

Either doctorate can prepare you for rewarding and high-level positions within the field of clinical psychology. While online programs make completing coursework much more convenient, keep in mind that there may be some courses and clinical requirements that must be completed in person.

Clinical psychology Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs can be fairly competitive, and you'll have to exceed the minimum requirements in order to gain admittance to most programs. Those minimum requirements are varied by program (see UC San Diego for an example). Requirements for both online and campus-based programs are usually the same. You’ll generally need:

• A bachelor’s or master's degree in psychology (master's preferred)
• A solid GPA that at least meets the program's minimum (normally 3.5)
• Transcripts detailing courses taken and grades
• Acceptable scores from the Graduate Record Exam ( GRE )
• Letters of recommendation from professors and/or professionals
• Personal statement explaining your reason for applying to the program
• CV detailing professional and academic accomplishments
• Interview with a faculty member of the program
• Application fee (usually $100 or less)

Online Ph.D. programs may expect you to have extensive research experience, possibly within or outside of a master’s program. Online Psy.D. programs may require several years of clinical experience or at least substantial experience through a master’s practicum.

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

Jump to Your State Listings

Auburn university at montgomery.

• Clinical Psychology Program Campus

The University of Alabama

• PhD Clinical Psychology Campus
• Clinical Health Psychology Subarea Campus

University of Alabama at Birmingham

• PhD Medical/Clinical Psychology Campus

University of South Alabama

• Clinical & Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Program Campus

University of Alaska Anchorage

• Ph.D. in Clinical-Community Psychology Campus

Northern Arizona University

• Doctor of Clinical Psychology Campus

University of Arizona

• Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Campus

Alliant International University-San Diego

• PhD in Clinical Psychology Campus
• PsyD in Clinical Psychology Campus

California Lutheran University

Fielding graduate university.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology Online

Fuller Theological Seminary

Loma linda university.

• Clinical Psychology (PhD) Campus
• Clinical Psychology (PsyD) Campus

University of California-Santa Barbara

• Counseling and Clinical Psychology PhD Campus

University of La Verne

• Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Campus

University of Colorado Boulder

• Clinical Psychology PhD Campus

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

• Clinical Health Psychology PhD Program Campus

University of Denver

• Clinical Psychology (Child Emphasis) Campus
• PsyD Clinical Psychology Campus

Connecticut

University of connecticut.

• Ph.D in Clinical Psychology Campus

Florida Institute of Technology-Online

• Psy.D. In Clinical Psychology Campus

Florida State University

• Clinical Psychology Campus

Nova Southeastern University

• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Campus
• Clinical Health Psychology Concentration Campus
• Psy.D. Clinical Psychology Campus

University of Central Florida

• Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology Campus
• Clinical Health Psychology Campus

University of Florida-Online

• PhD in Epidemiology Campus

University of Miami

• Adult Clinical Psychology Campus
• Health Clinical Psychology Campus

University of South Florida

• Ph.D. program concentration in Clinical Psychology Campus

Emory University

• PhD in Psychology-Clinical Science Concentration Campus

Georgia State University

• Psychology, Ph.D., Clinical Psychology Campus
• Psychology, Ph.D., Clinical/Community Psychology Campus

Chaminade University of Honolulu

• Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology Campus

Hawaii Pacific University

University of hawaii at manoa, idaho state university.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (M.S.-Ph.D.) Campus

DePaul University

• Clinical Psychology MA/PhD Campus

Roosevelt University

• Clinical Psychology, PsyD Campus

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

• Doctorate in Psychology: Clinical Psychology Campus

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago

• Psy.D. in Applied Clinical Psychology Campus
• Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology Campus

University of Illinois Chicago

Indiana state university.

• Psy.D Program in Clinical Psychology Campus

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

• Clinical Psychology PsyD Campus

University of Notre Dame

Wichita state university, eastern kentucky university, spalding university, university of kentucky, university of louisville, university of maine.

• Rural Integrated Behavioral Health in Primary Care Campus

Loyola University Maryland

• Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology Campus

Stevenson University

• Psychology: Clinical Psychology Campus

Massachusetts

Boston university.

• PhD Program in Clinical Psychology Campus

Clark University

Harvard university, suffolk university.

• Clinical Psychology Doctoral Campus

William James College

Eastern michigan university.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (Ph.D.) Campus

Michigan School of Psychology

Wayne state university.

• Ph.D. in Psychology: Clinical Campus

Western Michigan University

Capella university.

• PsyD in Clinical Psychology Online

Mississippi

Mississippi state university, university of mississippi.

• Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology Campus

University of Southern Mississippi

Saint louis university.

• Clinical Psychology, Ph.D. Campus

University of Missouri-Kansas City

• Psychology - Clinical Psychology Campus

University of Missouri-St Louis

• Ph.D. Clinical Psychology Campus

The University of Montana

University of nevada-las vegas.

• Ph.D. Program - Clinical Psychology Campus

University of Nevada-Reno

Fairleigh dickinson university-metropolitan campus, kean university.

• School and Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) Campus

Rowan University

Rutgers university-new brunswick.

• Clinical Psy.D. Campus

William Paterson University of New Jersey

University of new mexico-main campus, binghamton university, cuny city college.

• Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program Campus

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

• Ph.D. program in Health Psychology and Clinical Science Campus

CUNY Queens College

• Clinical Psychology Training Program Campus

Columbia University in the City of New York

• Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology Campus

Fordham University

St. john's university-new york.

• Clinical Psychology, Doctor of Philosophy Campus

Stony Brook University

Touro college.

• (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology with Health Emphasis Campus

Yeshiva University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology with Health Emphasis Campus

North Carolina

Appalachian state university.

• Clinical Psychology: Doctor of Psychology Campus

East Carolina University

University of north carolina wilmington.

• PhD Concentration in General Clinical Psychology Campus

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

North dakota, university of north dakota.

• Clinical Psychology (Ph.D.) Campus

Bowling Green State University-Main Campus

Case western reserve university, kent state university at kent.

• Clinical Psychology - Ph.D. Campus

Miami University-Oxford

• Clinical Program Campus

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio university-main campus, university of cincinnati-main campus, xavier university, university of tulsa.

• Clinical Psychology Graduate Programs Campus
• PhD program in Clinical Psychology Campus

Pennsylvania

Drexel university.

• JD/PhD in Law and Clinical Psychology Campus

Duquesne University

Indiana university of pennsylvania-main campus, temple university, the pennsylvania state university, university of pittsburgh-pittsburgh campus, west chester university of pennsylvania.

• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program in Clinical Psychology Campus
• Clinical Psychology & Criminal Justice (PsyD & MCJ Dual Degree) Campus
• Clinical Psychology (PsyD) and Master's of Business Administration (MBA) Campus
• Clinical Psychology (PsyD) & Human Sexuality Studies (MEd) Campus
• PsyD Program: Doctorate of Clinical Psychology Campus

Rhode Island

University of rhode island.

• Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Program Campus

South Carolina

University of south carolina-columbia.

• Clinical-Community Psychology Campus

East Tennessee State University

• PhD Concentration in Clinical Psychology Campus

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

University of memphis, prairie view a & m university.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Adolescent Psychology Program Campus

Southern Methodist University

• Ph.D. Program Clinical Psychology Campus

Texas A & M University-College Station

Texas tech university, the university of texas rio grande valley, the university of texas at tyler.

• Ph.D. Clinical Psychology (Underserved Populations) Campus

Southern Utah University

• Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) Campus

University of Utah

• Clinical Graduate Program Campus

Utah State University

• PhD in Combined Clinical/Counseling Campus

University of Vermont

George mason university, liberty university.

• Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology Online

Norfolk State University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology Campus

Old Dominion University

• Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology Campus

Regent University

University of virginia-main campus, virginia commonwealth university, virginia polytechnic institute and state university.

• Clinical Science Program Campus

Virginia State University

Antioch university-seattle, seattle pacific university.

• Doctorate (PhD) Clinical Psychology Campus

Washington State University

• Clinical Psychology Graduate Program Campus

West Virginia

Marshall university.

• Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) Campus

Marquette University

University of wyoming.

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

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Fielding’s doctoral program in Clinical Psychology is accredited by the American Psychological Association. It is the only distributed learning program accredited by the APA. The Psychology PhD serves adults, many of whom who have trained or worked in the mental health field. Our unique distributed learning model blends the best of in-person learning opportunities with digital formats.

Questions related to the program’s accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation: Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 / E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

For questions regarding the Clinical Psychology PhD Program contact [email protected].

About the Clinical Psychology Program

Application requirements.

Earning your doctorate in Clinical Psychology includes online and in-person seminars, meetings with faculty and other students in your region, weeklong residential sessions, as well as research and clinical training experiences.

The unique mix of online and residential learning provides flexible opportunities for individuals with career, family, and community responsibilities to achieve their advanced educational goals. Faculty are active scholars and practitioners with a wide variety of expertise, making it possible to offer training in a variety of therapeutic orientations and specialized concentrations in some of the most exciting growth areas of psychology.

• Conferred Bachelor’s Degree
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Online Application Form
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose
• Critical Thinking Writing Sample
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Official Transcript
• No GRE Required

Start your application NOW!  

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In accordance with requirements of the American Psychological Association (APA), Fielding Graduate University provides Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data pertaining to the education of our graduate students.

The Fielding Experience

• Become a member of a dynamic and diverse community of colleagues
• Interact with and learn from our expert faculty located all across the country
• Attend monthly professional development seminar in your geographic area
• Engage with alumni, faculty, and other students at sessions

Mission & Aims of the Program

Fielding’s APA accredited Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program is strongly aligned with the university’s mission to create a more humane, just, and sustainable world, and the university’s values that include academic excellence, community, diversity, and social justice.

Consistent with these values, a core mission of our program is to foster the inclusion of students from under-represented populations. These populations include students living in small communities, rural, or remote locations of the United States, students currently in the military or spouses of military members, adult learners with families, and students whose ongoing participation in their current communities cannot be halted for doctoral study elsewhere. These are student populations who are often unable to enter the field through preparation at a traditional university campus, yet these are the future psychologists for which the discipline and profession have expressed an urgent need.

In addition, our program aims to graduate entry-level scholar-practitioner psychologists who bring social justice values to their work as licensed health service professionals. Consistent with this overarching aim, we have four specific aims for our students, which must be achieved by the time of graduation.

• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level discipline-specific knowledge that represents the scientific and theoretical knowledge areas of the discipline of psychology (i.e., history and systems of psychology and the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social bases of behavior).
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level conceptualization, evaluation, analysis, and integration of discipline-specific knowledge across the curriculum.
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level ability to understand and critique research; design, conduct, analyze, and communicate theoretically informed research; and conduct research in a manner that is culturally sensitive and consistent with legal code and ethical standards, including the APA ethics code.
• Students will demonstrate doctoral-level competence in the profession-wide competencies, including conducting an evidence-based diagnosis, assessment, and psychotherapy; and applying theory and research to develop case conceptualizations, treatment plans, and interventions that are consistent with legal and ethical standards and individual and cultural diversity factors.

Serving adults, many of whom have trained or worked in the mental health field, our unique distributed learning model blends the best of face-to-face learning opportunities with digital formats.

Faculty are active scholars and practitioners with a wide variety of expertise, which allows us to offer specialized concentrations and training in a variety of therapeutic orientations.

Geographic Eligibility

The program only considers applicants who reside in the contiguous United States and Canada. The program is not available to those residing internationally (except Canada). Applicants from Alaska and Hawaii may be considered pending confirmation of their ability and resources to attend local professional development seminars in contiguous U.S. on a regular basis, access to acceptable practicum training sites, and ability to relocate for internship. (Contact [email protected] to be put in touch with the Program Director for consideration prior to applying.)

Due to state licensing requirements, graduates of the program are not eligible for licensure in Oklahoma. For licensure information on your particular state of interest, please visit our Professional Licensure page [CLICK HERE].

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25 Best Online PhD in Psychology Programs

Explore online PhD in Psychology programs. Compare schools and see your job prospects after graduation.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for psychologists has an estimated growth of 3%.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

When you join the field as an expert in your discipline, you may be able to make between $76,000 and $116,000 per year.

List of Schools Offering Online PhD in Psychology Programs

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

1. Alaska Pacific University

Alaska Pacific University is a liberal arts and sciences university in Anchorage, Alaska. It was established in 1957.

Alaska Pacific University’s Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology is designed to meet the needs of working professionals seeking the academic requirements to work as a licensed psychologist Classes are delivered through synchronous online evening classes and intensive on-campus classes.

• Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology

APU  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

2. Arizona State University

Arizona State University is one of the largest universities in the United States in terms of enrollment. It has 5 campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area, with 4 learning centers in Arizona.

ASU offers a Doctorate in Behavioral Health program, which features specialized coursework focusing on teaching evidence-based behavioral interventions. It comes with a 400-hour internship for students who are licensed as behavioral, medical, or professionals.

• Online PhD in Behavioral Health

ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Committee (HLC) of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

3. California Institute of Integral Studies

California Institute of Integral Studies is based in San Francisco, California. It consists of four schools: the School of Professional Psychology & Health, the School of Undergraduate Studies, the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the School of Consciousness and Transformation.

The school offers an online PhD program in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology. It aims to deepen learner’s skills and make relevant contributions to shaping their areas of specialization. Students need to complete 36 units for a period of 3 years.

• online PhD in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology

CIIS is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

4. California Southern University

California Southern University was founded in 1978 and is located in Costa Mesa, California. It offers programs at the associate, bachelor, masters, and doctoral levels.

California Southern’s Doctor of Psychology degree program is applied, clinically focused, and meets the educational requirements for licensure as a clinical psychologist in California.

The program can be completed in 4 years with all the coursework taken online. Students will also be required to do a practicum at approved local sites.

• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

CalSouthern is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

5. Capella University

Capella University delivers most of its courses online. It is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota and was established in 1993. Presently, it offers 52 degree programs wig more than 1,900 degree courses.

The university’s PhD in Psychology online program is designed to give professionals the tools to take advanced roles in areas such as psychology, mental health, business, education, or public policy.

Areas of specialization include General Psychology, Behavior Analysis, Developmental Psychology, Educational Psychology, and Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

Online PhD in Clinical Psychology

Capella U is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Duquesne University

Duquesne University is a Catholic university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It takes pride in its commitment to providing high-quality education that emphasizes both intellectual and ethical development.

Duquesne University’s PsyD in School Psychology is a 91-credit program that trains students in evidence-based practices founded in scientific literature and theory.

The curriculum employs aspects of multiculturalism and diversity, conducting consistent outcomes assessments for program improvement and support.

• Psy.D. School Psychology

Duquesne is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education

7. Felician University

Felician University, a Catholic university in New Jersey, has campuses in Lodi and Rutherford. It was founded in 1923 by the Felician sisters.

The university’s Doctorate in Counseling Psychology conducts classes at Lodi campus and online. It prepares graduates to become entry-level health service psychologists and license-eligible psychologists in New Jersey.

The training focuses on developing the necessary skills required to work as a psychologist and an independent practitioner.

• Doctorate in Counseling Psychology

Felician University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

8. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, California offers postgraduate and doctoral degree programs that are primarily delivered online.

Fielding Graduate University offers a doctoral program in Clinical Psychology. The program includes online and in-person seminars, week-long residential sessions, meetings with faculty and other students in your region, research, and clinical training experiences.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology

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

9. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is a non-denominational Christian university in Phoenix, Arizona. It was founded in 1949.

The university offers a PhD in General Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition and Instruction. It is designed to help those who wish to work with adult education in economically and culturally diverse communities. The coursework includes studying social cognition and assessments.

• PhD in Psychology: Cognition & Instruction

GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

10. Keiser University

Keiser University is based in Florida, and it offers educational programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate levels. These programs can be completed in both traditional and online formats.

The Doctoral Program in Psychology follows a scholar-practitioner model that allows students to integrate scholarly research with classroom expertise. It aims to challenge and develop students with rigorous coursework and relevant teaching and research activities.

• Psychology, PhD

Keiser U is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

11. Liberty University

Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, is one of the world’s largest Christian universities in the world. It offers more than 600 degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

Liberty University offers the PhD in Psychology degree program with an emphasis on Industrial/Organizational Psychology, which provides training in the study of human behavior in the workplace. It has 60 credit hours and can be completed within an average of 3 years.

Classes are done 100% online in 8-week courses.

• Online Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

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

12. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago is a Catholic university in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded by the Jesuits in 1870.

The university offers a PhD in Counseling Psychology, which allows graduates to be eligible for the Clinical Psychologist Licensure Examination. It trains students to develop an in-depth understanding of various issues related to cultural diversity and social justice.

Typically, the program takes four to five years of study.

• PhD in Counseling Psychology

Loyola is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

13. Michigan State University

Michigan State University was founded in 1855 and was first named the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. Presently, MSU is one of the largest universities in the country in terms of the student population.

MSU offers a hybrid format of the PhD in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology. It is a rigorous, five-year program of study completed primarily online.

The program aims to develop educational leaders who comprehend the need to create technologically sound pedagogies based on innovative research and practice.

• Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology

MSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

14. National University

Founded in 1971, National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions headquartered in San Diego, California.

NU offers a 100% online program for a PhD in Psychology that is designed to answer the growing interest in the field of psychology. It seeks to prepare graduates to stand out and excel in the profession. Training includes applied experiential learning with case studies, scenarios, and real-life situations.

It requires the completion of 60 credit hours and can potentially be completed in 46 months.

• PhD in Psychology Online

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

15. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is Oregon’s largest university with over 32,000 students from all over the country and across the globe l.

The university’s PhD in Counseling program is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as clinical supervisors, advanced practitioners, and counselors in clinical and academic settings. The program is offered in a “hybrid” format, which involves both face-to-face and online instruction.

• Ph.D. in Counseling

Oregon State is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

16. Pacifica Graduate Institute

Pacifica Graduate Institute was founded in 1976 and has two campuses in Santa Barbara, California.

The school offers the PhD Jungian Psychology and Archetypal Studies degree program, which is anchored on the works of C.G. Jung and James Hillman.

In this degree program, students can study different approaches to the psyche that foster healing, creativity, self-expression, transformation, and the development of consciousness.

• Online Ph.D. Jungian Psychology and Archetypal Studies

Pacifica Graduate Institute  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

17. Regent University

Regent University was founded in 1978 and is located in Virginia Beach, VA. It has 135 programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels – all taught from a Christian perspective.

The university’s Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology degree program allows for a broad area of academic inquiry.

Students can explore and study topics like the psychological foundation of learning, creating environments conducive to learning, cognitive strategies for learning in children and adults, brain research, teacher education, faculty roles, and professional development in different settings.

• Doctor of Education – Educational Psychology

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

18. Saybrook University

Saybrook University, established in 1971, is located in Pasadena, California.

The Online PhD in Psychology degree program at Saybrook University is designed to help individuals succeed professionally in a variety of areas, including education, the juvenile justice system, community health centers, corporate offices, and non-profit organizations.

Specializations include Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health; Creativity Studies; Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology; and Psychophysiology.

• Online Ph.D. in Psychology

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

19. Sofia University

Sofia University is located in Palo Alto, California, and was established in 1975 by James Fadiman and Robert Frager.

The university’s Doctor of Philosophy in Transpersonal Psychology is a 75-unit degree program that is delivered fully online. The average completion length is 3 years. It provides a unique and extraordinary opportunity to study the theories and practices of transpersonal psychology.

Students can work closely with faculty members who provide exceptional support and facilitate social and emotional development.

• Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology

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

20. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University, established in 1923, offers over 150 courses through 13 colleges.

The university’s PhD in Educational Psychology is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive knowledge of educational foundations, learning, motivation, and development. It aims to prepare individuals for careers in educational research and various academic career positions. The program has 91 credit hours.

• Educational Psychology – PhD

Texas Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

21. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a global innovator in the field of Psychology for over 40 years.

The school offers a PhD in International Psychology with Trauma Services Concentration. It is a full-time, online degree program with 3-4 years length of completion.

It is designed to help students acquire the skills necessary to lead organizations in developing prevention training and establishing programs to address different issues in mental health caused by traumatic experiences.

• Ph.D. in International Psychology Trauma Services Concentration

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology  is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

22. Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide offers flexible online programs and courses at an attainable rate.

The university’s Online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology aims to help students to gain a better understanding of what motivates their workforce.

It is designed to give professionals the skills and tools required to design evidence-based solutions in their organizations. It can be completed 100% online with affordable tuition rates.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology

Touro University Worldwide  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

23. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is the flagship university of the University of Texas System.

The university’s Department of Psychology PhD program brings together the best faculty and staff to provide graduate and undergraduate students the support needed to fulfill the school’s scientific and educational missions.

The school’s graduate program and Clinical program both ranked #8 in US News & World Report’s list.

• Ph.D. Program in Psychology

The University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands is a Christian university in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It was founded by Baptist ministers in 1888.

The university offers the PhD in Clinical Psychology program, which is designed to help students develop the skills required to obtain licensure as a psychologist in the Commonwealth of Kentucky as well as in other states.

It is a four-year program that lets students actively participate in clinical instruction, clinical practicum, and doctoral dissertations.

• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

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

25. Walden University

Walden University has been offering degrees and certificates in various undergraduate and graduate programs for over 50 years. Programs offered reflect market trends and enable adult learners to achieve their educational goals.

Walden University offers a PhD in Psychology program. It gives opportunities for students to achieve post-graduation success and empower them to excel as researchers, educators, or consultants. It is offered completely online and has 55 credit hours.

• Ph.D. in Psychology

Walden U is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Types of Online PhD in Psychology Degrees

Psychology is a vast field, and psychology doctorates come in many forms. You can choose an online psychology degree path that’s specific to your research and career goals.

Choose the area that stands out to you to jump to that section.

• Online PhD Psychology
• Online PhD Behavioral Psychology
• Online PhD Child & Adolescent Psychology
• Online PhD Clinical Psychology
• Online PhD Educational Psychology
• Online PhD Forensic Psychology
• Online PhD Organizational Psychology
• Online PhD School Psychology

Each of these related subject areas can help prepare you for a different career path.

Online PhD in Psychology

A generalist degree in psychology can be applied in many domains. You may choose this path if you want a degree that can serve you well in varied positions or fields.

This may also be a good option if you don’t feel like any specialty doctoral programs are particularly suitable for your career goals and would prefer to customize your own course of study.

During your studies, you will likely take classes in statistics; the mathematics and analysis skills that you learn there can help prepare you to conduct reliable research.

The courses in generalist psychology degrees cover a variety of psychology disciplines. Topics may include epigenetics, neuroscience, memory, cognition, and developmental psychology.

A psychology PhD can help equip you with leadership and research skills that are useful in a variety of career settings. For example, you might work as a school administrator, a behavior analyst, or a marketing manager.

Online PhD in Behavioral Psychology

If you’re interested in why people make the choices they do and how thoughts and behavior influence one another, then consider making behavioral psychology your field of study.

This degree gives students opportunities to research behavior analysis and learn about motivating others to change their patterns of action.

You will likely take classes that specifically focus on the field of applied behavior analysis. Other courses may cover related topics like addiction, language development, education, child development, or self-control. You may also learn about the history of psychology and behavior analysis.

This program may be offered as a licensure track to help prepare to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

After earning your online PhD in Behavioral Psychology, you may be able to conduct research in behavior analysis, supervise a team of behavior analysts or work directly with clients who have autism or developmental delays.

Online PhD in Child & Adolescent Psychology

Working with kids and teens sometimes requires different skills and communication techniques than those needed when working with adults.

To expand your abilities to work with youths or conduct research among this age group, you’ll want to focus your studies on child and adolescent psychology.

Your classes will likely address developmental psychology and psychotherapy techniques to use when working with children and families. You may discuss how childhood crises like abuse and loss can have psychological effects throughout youth and beyond.

Related classes may cover how psychological principles can be applied in the juvenile correctional system and other difficult situations. You may complete a clinical internship in a child psychology facility.

This degree program may lead to licensure so that you can become a certified child or family psychologist. This career path can help you provide life-changing therapy services for youths in troubled situations.

Serious mental illness can make life challenging, but clinical psychologists can provide help and support. Whether you choose to conduct research in this field or work directly with patients, you can help people work through their struggles.

Common studies in this degree include developmental psychology and psychotherapy techniques. The courses are typically designed to address counseling ethics and improve clinical skills, like interviewing patients and conducting assessments.

Most programs require students to complete a year-long clinical internship for this degree; this component can help thoroughly prepare you for licensure.

Clinical psychologists often work directly with patients, particularly those with serious mental illnesses or behavior disorders. As you provide therapy, you may also conduct research projects and publish your findings.

You may choose to focus your clinical practice on a particular domain, such as health psychology or cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Online PhD in Educational Psychology

If you’re interested in furthering the science of learning, then a PhD in Educational Psychology may provide the foundation that you need. This branch of psychology deals with how people learn and how learning can be measured.

Common coursework in this doctoral program addresses educational theory and instructional methods. You should also study human development during childhood or throughout the lifespan.

To help you succeed in the realm of education, it may be important to cover topics like learning assessment, program analysis, and organizational leadership. You may also learn how to teach psychology to students.

A degree in educational psychology can help prepare you to lead institutions of learning. Some programs are geared toward working with adult learners, so you might do well as a college administrator.

You may also choose to work as a researcher who contributes toward a better understanding of how people assimilate new information.

Online PhD in Forensic Psychology

Did you ever consider going into law instead of pursuing a psychology career? You can bring those two interests together with a doctoral program in forensic psychology. This discipline addresses psychology topics and issues that relate to law, criminal justice, and corrections.

Experts in forensic psychology need to be well-versed in abnormal development and behavior. Students of forensic psychology study tough topics like violence, terrorism, and arson.

Your studies may prepare you to deliver expert testimony, counsel offenders, support law enforcement officers, or carry out hostage negotiations. Helping people cope with the effects of criminal or violent acts may be another focus of your doctoral work.

As a leader in forensic psychology, you may be hired by a criminal justice organization or serve as a consultant. For example, you might coach witnesses, teach police officers how to respond in crises or work with criminal offenders.

Online PhD in Organizational Psychology

Psychological principles can be greatly influential in the business world. Earning a PhD in Organizational Psychology can help you become a leader in the business world. This program can also be known as a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.

The curriculum for this doctorate may include both business and psychology classes. This doctorate focuses on organizational behavior and is designed to help students learn how to lead teams through change and navigate group behavior.

Other courses may address applying management techniques, motivating employees, conducting assessments, and compensating employees. You may be able to select a particular specialty for this doctoral program; options may include human resources or global business.

I/O professionals often hold leadership positions in businesses and other organizations. You could potentially assume a high level of responsibility in a human resources or project management department.

Alternatively, you might provide consulting services to organizations to help them improve morale or productivity.

Online PhD in School Psychology

Classroom teachers aren’t the only educational professionals who can have a significant influence on young learners. School psychologists also play an important role in students’ growth and learning, especially for students who struggle in a traditional classroom environment.

This program typically includes classes in learning and cognition, childhood development, and behavior disorders. Becoming familiar with conducting assessments, identifying delays, and strategizing interventions can help you succeed in a school setting.

You will probably need to complete an internship, which may last around one year. Individual states set regulations about licensure for school psychologists, so it’s important to select a program that aligns with your state’s requirements.

As a school psychologist, you’ll probably pursue employment in a school system. Your responsibilities may include supporting students in the special education program. Other career options include working as a researcher or an educational consultant.

Courses for an Online PhD in Psychology

As a doctoral student, your curriculum may be uniquely suited to your specialization and interests. There may be core courses in your degree in psychology online that you are required to take as well as the opportunity to select electives of your choice. Example classes are listed below.

Cognitive Neuroscience – Studies in neuroscience address the relationship between the nervous system and behavior. Topics typically covered include memory, reasoning, and decision-making and how neurons, whether individually or as a group, become encoded.

Developmental Psychology – This course provides an overview of human development and the psychological changes that occur over a lifetime. Areas of study may include language development and social maturation.

Learning Theories – A class on learning can help you understand how people acquire information and retain it in their memories. Your studies may focus on young learners, adult learners, or a combination.

Psychology and Culture – This course explores the field of cultural psychology. The topics may include how humans internalize their culture of origin and how an individual’s culture shapes thoughts and actions.

Psychology Instruction – Once you have your PhD, you may want to work as a professor, so this course can help equip you with tools for teaching college students. It can help you learn how to conduct yourself in a classroom setting and how to build meaningful connections that will help students learn. You may complete a teaching practicum.

Psychopathology – This course provides an overview of mental and behavioral disorders. You may learn about identifying these disorders and providing effective therapies.

Research Methods – PhD programs are research-focused, so taking classes on research methods can help you sharpen your skills as a researcher. These classes can help you learn how to design studies, produce reliable results, and analyze the data.

In many programs, especially those of a clinical nature, you can expect to spend a year or more in practicum and internship settings. Your doctoral program is likely to include a research project or a dissertation as well.

What’s the Difference between a PsyD and PhD in Psychology?

A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a professional doctorate for acquiring practical knowledge and skills for providing clinical services. Students in PsyD online programs spend significant time in practicum and internship settings to gain as much hands-on practice as possible.

Choosing this approach for your studies can help prepare you to provide psychological services to patients in individual or group settings.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is a research-focused program. Although you may still complete internships in the psychology field, they may not be until close to the end of your studies. Instead, you’ll likely spend more time on research skills, statistics, and data analysis.

If you have your sights set on a full-time career in research or academia, this is typically the right educational path to select. Becoming licensed may be a possibility, but only some PhD in Psychology programs are licensure tracks.

Ultimately, the difference between PsyD vs. PhD comes down to the type of career you want to pursue in the psychology sector.

What’s the Difference between a PhD Psychology and a PhD Counseling Psychology Online?

A PhD in Psychology is a general program that can give you insight into human thought and behavior. A generalist psychology degree is often a non-licensure track.

It can be useful for those who want to teach psychology at the college level, become researchers, use their psychology knowledge in business or organizational leadership, or serve as consultants.

For those who want to work directly with clients, a PhD in Counseling Psychology may offer a path to licensure. This degree program typically includes classes on counseling practices, group therapy, abnormal development, and psychological assessments.

You will probably have to engage in a lengthy internship experience as well. If you want to see patients in private practice or as a member of a healthcare team, it’s a good idea to choose a PhD in Counseling Psychology, a PhD in Clinical Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology program.

PhD in Psychology Job Outlook and Salary

Psychology is a growing field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 3% growth rate for psychologist positions for the next ten years. This job category includes clinical, counseling, school, and industrial-organizational psychologists as well as other specialists in this field.

Earning your doctorate may qualify you to seek licensure, apply for a promotion, or move to a different organization. An increase in pay may accompany those changes.

Professional Organizations for those with a PhD in Psychology

Whether they conduct research, lead organizations, or work with clients, psychology professionals can benefit from the support of others in the field. Membership in a professional organization can provide opportunities to learn from others and grow your skills.

• American Psychological Association – APA is open to all who work in the field of psychology, including those in clinical practice and academia. Membership benefits include access to a psychology news app and an exclusive journal as well as discounts on professional resources.
• American Psychiatric Association – Also known as APA, this organization is for practicing psychiatrists and those who teach or conduct research in this field. Membership benefits include access to print and online publications, discounts on industry resources, and free continuing education classes.
• Association for Psychological Science – APS advocates for psychological research and practice to be based on a strong scientific foundation. Researchers, clinicians, teachers, and other psychology professionals are welcome to join. Members are sent digital and print newsletters and journals. Plus, they can access a job board and may want to attend the organization’s conventions.
• National Association of School Psychologists – NASP advocates for policies and practices that benefit students’ safety, health, and academic success. Members are invited to join some of the organization’s interest-based subgroups and have access to newsletters, journals, and downloadable handouts.
• Society for Neuroscience – SfN provides professional support and public advocacy for the neuroscience community. If you work in neuroscience, you may want to join the group for career resources, free and discounted publications, and reduced costs for the organization’s annual meeting.

Membership benefits vary from one organization to the next. To try out a group membership without committing to the full registration fee, consider enrolling during your doctoral program. It’s common for professional associations to offer discounted student memberships to people who are in school.

Certification and Licensure Following a Doctoral Psychology Program

Not all psychology PhDs pursue licensure, but it’s an important step for those who plan to engage in clinical practice. The following overview can provide a general idea of the steps you’ll need to take.

• Enroll in a doctoral degree program. Choose a licensure PhD track — perhaps at a school that is accredited by the American Psychological Association.
• Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and any other tests required by your state.
• Earn clinical hours. While you may be able to earn some of these during school, many will have to be acquired during your postdoc period.
• After finishing your degree, passing required tests and earning professional hours, apply for licensure with your state.

Each state sets its own licensure regulations; consult your state’s board to learn more about the specific steps that you’ll need to take. It’s also important to choose a program that complies with your state’s licensure requirements.

Accreditation for an Online PhD in Psychology

You’ll likely put a lot of time and money into earning your PhD in Psychology. It’s important that you receive a reputable degree in exchange for all that work. That’s why you should always make sure that your university holds proper accreditation.

Regional accreditation is one important distinction to consider. Any school focused on delivering quality academics will have applied for regional accreditation. Accrediting bodies grant this recognition to schools that consistently provide good learning experiences and opportunities for their students.

To ensure that your college meets this standard, look for accreditation from:

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

Without regional accreditation, you have no guarantee of receiving a quality education. Your degree probably won’t mean much to employers or other schools.

For a doctoral program in psychology, it’s sometimes advised to look for schools that are also accredited by the American Psychological Association .

According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education, APA has the authority to determine whether psychology programs meet industry standards and thoroughly prepare students for clinical practice and other psychology careers.

APA accreditation may not be essential if you don’t plan to seek licensure. In some states, though, only students with an APA-approved doctorate are eligible to become licensed psychologists.

Financial Aid for PhD in Psychology Students

Doctoral programs are expensive, but financial aid can put a PhD within your grasp.

There are government programs that exist specifically to help students fund their education. These include grants, low-interest loans, and work-study arrangements. You may be able to use both state and federal funding.

To learn about your eligibility for government help, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

As a doctoral student, you may qualify for other types of help as well. Your school may reduce your tuition in exchange for teaching lower-level classes. You may also receive scholarships or fellowships from your college, industry associations, or other community or national organizations.

If you need additional help, look into spreading out your payments. Private loans can make it so you won’t have to pay the full tuition cost right away.

Just keep in mind that private interest rates are usually higher than they are for government loans, so it’s smart to max out other types of financial aid first. You can also ask your school about the possibility of establishing a payment plan.

Questions Related to Earning PhD in Psychology Online

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have in pursuing an online doctorate in psychology.

Can You Do a PhD Online?

Yes, you can do a PhD online. Many schools offer online PhD programs that are reputable, regionally accredited, and comparable to their on-campus counterparts.

Online PhDs are available in a vast number of disciplines, including psychology. Although these programs allow you to take classes and submit coursework online, you may need to complete in-person practicums or internships.

Can You Get a PhD Online in Psychology?

Yes, you can get a PhD online in Psychology. There are a number of colleges that offer online programs for studying psychology at the PhD level.

These programs can help equip you with the in-depth knowledge needed to lead organizations, spearhead change, conduct research, develop new theories, or teach students. Some online PhD in Psychology programs may prepare you for licensure.

Is a PsyD or PhD Better?

Both of these options can be valuable degrees. Which one you should get depends on your career goals. Consider choosing a PsyD if you know you want to be a counseling practitioner. Consider getting a PhD if you enjoy statistics, and your goals include becoming a researcher or a college faculty member.

Are Online PhD Programs Accredited?

You should have no trouble finding an online PhD program with regional accreditation. Accrediting bodies confer this status on online schools just like they do for on-campus programs.

Programmatic accreditation for online psychology programs is harder to come by, though — especially when it comes to APA accreditation. Hybrid programs are more likely to hold APA accreditation than fully online ones.

Are There Any APA Accredited Online PsyD Programs?

Although online PsyD programs are eligible for APA accreditation, just like on-campus programs, the organization has not given lasting accreditation to any fully online programs.

Instead, you may want to look into a hybrid PsyD program so that you can earn some of your credits in a flexible online format.

Is a PhD in Psychology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Psychology worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market in life, physical, and social science is projected to grow by 5% for the next decade. Common careers in this field include school psychologist, forensic psychologist, industrial-organizational psychologist, postsecondary education administrator, and human resources manager.

If you have a keen interest in how people think, act, and develop, then consider soaking up as much knowledge on the topic as you can by enrolling in an online PhD in Psychology program.

Earning your doctorate can help elevate you to expert status in this field and prepare you to teach students, perform original research, and make a significant difference for individuals or organizations. Getting your doctorate may also qualify you to pursue licensure in your state.

Now is the time to apply to online psychology schools. A fulfilling career as a professional psychologist may be waiting for you.

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• PsyD in Clinical Psychology

PsyD in Clinical Psychology Doctor of Psychology

Reach the pinnacle of your career while helping others develop their potential. The online PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Capella deepens your understanding of human behavior and helps you prepare for state licensure eligibility.

The program includes coursework, face-to-face residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research to help you put theory into practice. A support team of licensure experts, advisors, and teaching assistants will help you stay on track for graduation.

Prepare for licensure

This program features online coursework and face-to-face experiences, both designed to help you pursue licensure. Learn more

Blend of in-person and online experiences

Coursework, residencies, clinical practicum, internships, and research complement online learning to help prepare you for real-world clinical settings.

Professional and credible

This program is designed around the core goals, objectives, and competencies that define the practice of professional psychology.

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

• Online and in-person
• 14 Core courses
• 30 Max transfer credits
• 2 Elective courses
• 6 Residency courses
• 3 Practicum courses
• 4 Internship courses
• 1 Dissertation Preparation course
• Clinical dissertation

Courses and skills

Explore clinical psychology courses.

• This program requires a total of 145 quarter credits
• You'll need to complete 14 core courses, 2 elective courses, 6 residency courses, 3 practicum courses, 4 internship courses, one dissertation preparation course and one clinical dissertation

View all courses in catalog

What you'll learn

Our PsyD in Clinical Psychology equips you with comprehensive clinical skills based on the theoretical and scientific foundations of psychology, from assessment to intervention. It is designed to help you pursue licensure, subject to the requirements in your state.

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

• Demonstrate the attitudes, behaviors, and foundational knowledge required for the practice of psychology
• Act consistently with the ethics and laws pertaining to clinical practice
• Integrate science and theory into the practice of psychology
• Understand, respect, and apply issues of diversity in the practice of psychology
• Provide effective and appropriate psychological intervention to clients
• Accurately select, administer, score, and interpret psychological tests
• Employ research as a means to advance the science and practice of psychology

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the doctor of psychology cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A more structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1–2 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$555  per credit,  131  coursework credits, 30 max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$555 Per quarter credit

131 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

Practicum and Internship

Included in coursework costs; additional expenses such as site-required expenses not included. Minimum of 1,000 supervised practicum hours; minimum of 2,000 supervised internship hours

Included in coursework costs, 6 required. 4 one-week sessions and 2 two-week sessions. Travel, lodging, meals and other expenses not included.

Dissertation Preparation

$2,780 Per quarter

Per quarter

Clinical Dissertation

Resource kit fee

Per quarter, coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• The program specialization you choose
• Scholarships and finances
• Prior coursework

Transfer credits

• Employer and/or military benefits
• Amount of time spent working on practicum
• Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
• Complexity of your dissertation
• Academic performance
• School/work/life balance
• Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

Get the details.

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

Get the credits you deserve. You may be able to save time and money on your Capella degree by transferring credits from an accredited university.  Get started

Employer & association discounts

If your employer or organization is a Capella network partner, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your employer what offers are available.

10% Military discount Capella offers a  tuition discount  to active-duty service members and their spouses, Guard and Reserve members, and veterans.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

Understanding professional licensure

Preparing for licensure.

It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.

Licensure details

How to apply

What are the psyd admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree in psychology or a related field from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution.
• Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

Additional requirements for Doctor of Psychology programs are:

• 3 letters of recommendation completed by professionals who can assess your aptitude for doctoral education in psychology
• An extended goal statement and writing sample.
• Your résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
• After submitting admission materials, applicants may be required to take part in a faculty interview for assessment of professionalism and academic fit to the program

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed coaching sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

Helping Professions Program Guide

Wondering about the differences between PhDs and professional doctorates? What are the unique features of online and traditional doctoral programs? Read on to learn more and find the right program for you.

What’s It Like to Be a Doctoral Student?

Get details on Capella University programs in counseling and family therapy, psychology, social work and human services, and applied behavior analysis. Compare learning formats, financing options, and more.

Career exploration

What can you do with a psyd in clinical psychology degree.

Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PsyD in Clinical Psychology.

Related job titles to explore*

• Psychologist
• Clinical psychologist
• Clinical manager
• Adjunct instructor or part-time psychology faculty
• Full-time psychology faculty
• Clinical director
• Research psychologist
• Clinical therapist

Employment settings to explore

• Hospital—inpatient or outpatient
• Community college
• Land-based or online college or university
• Community counseling center
• Social service agency
• Government—local, state, federal
• Health care clinic
• Mental health clinic
• Consulting firm
• Private practice

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

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Protecting the public by supporting the delivery of quality education and training in health service psychology., updates and information.

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Clinical Psychology Ph.D.

Want more info.

We're so glad you're interested in UNT! Let us know if you'd like more information and we'll get you everything you need.

Why Earn a Clinical Psychology Ph.D.?

Our program adheres to APA accreditation standards and prepares students for entry into the profession of Clinical Psychology. We are committed to a student-centered learning approach with close faculty mentorship.

The program offers intensive research training in the science of Clinical Psychology via highly productive faculty research labs . Simultaneously, students obtain in-depth, closely supervised training in the practice of Clinical Psychology.

Our commitment to excellence requires that high standards of research and clinical practice be maintained. These high expectations enable you to be highly competitive at the national level for prominent positions in science and practice settings. We empower you to meet or exceed our expectations by providing high quality, well-supervised training in a supportive environment.

• Assessment evaluations
• Psychological diagnostics
• Psychotherapy interventions
• Measurement and psychometrics
• Psychological consultation

Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Highlights

What can you do with a clinical psychology ph.d..

Overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 13,400 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.

Clinical Psychology Ph.D. Courses You Could Take

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Counseling Psychology Ph.D.

Behavioral Science Ph.D.

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Clinical Psychology PhD

The PhD in Clinical Psychology is an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program, and also a program member of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology (CUDCP). The program adheres to the scientist/practitioner model of training, and requires a number of clinical and research practica in addition to an extensive course curriculum.

• It is a four-year plus internship, full-time program.
• It emphasizes a thorough preparation in theoretical psychology and methodology.
• Theoretical foundations in personality and psychopathology are explored prior to behavioral and personality assessment.
• Concurrent with the work in assessment, students begin study of the theory, research, and practice of psychotherapy.

The Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association can be contacted at:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation  American Psychological Association  750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002  Phone: (202) 336-5979 / E-mail:  [email protected]   Web:  www.apa.org/ed/accreditation   

Admission requirements

This program is open to applications from those who hold an undergraduate degree in psychology or have taken the required number of psychology credits (18). The requirement of 18 undergraduate credits includes statistics and 15 additional credits, preferably introductory psychology, developmental psychology, experimental psychology, and social psychology.

Students are selected from a pool of academically qualified applicants who can contribute to the diversity of the student body. Students enrolled in the clinical psychology program come from diverse ethnic, cultural, individual and experiential backgrounds. Applications are encouraged from those identifying with cultural and/or individual areas of diversity, including (but not limited to) age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, language, national origin, race, religion, culture, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status.

Acceptance decisions are based on outstanding undergraduate and (where applicable) graduate academic performance, evidence of scholarly activity such as publications and paper presentations, prior work experience, the personal statement, and letters of recommendation. 

The deadline for application for admission to the PhD program is December 15, 2023.

NOTE: The FDU application fee for the 2023-2024 application cycle has been waived.

To apply to this program , complete an application through the psychology common application PSYCAS .

This application should be used only to apply for the PhD in Clinical Psychology. Your application to the PhD program will not be considered complete unless you submit the following through PSYCAS:

• all official undergraduate and graduate transcripts,
• three letters of recommendation,
• a personal statement,
• official GRE aptitude and psychology test score reports. The psychology GRE is optional for those who majored in psychology as an undergraduate or attained an advanced degree in psychology. 

Degree plan

1st semester.

• PSYC6112      Clinical Research Methods & Psychometrics
• PSYC6114      Psychopathology
• PSYC6116      History & Systems
• PSYC6118      Computer Application in Statistics Lab
• PSYC6132      Developmental Issues in Clinical Psychology
• PSYC6180      First-Year Clinical Practicum I

2nd Semester

• PSYC6122      Personality Assessment
• PSYC6133      Intellectual Assessment
• PSYC6160      Teaching Seminar (1 credit)
• PSYC6624      Introduction to Psychotherapy
• PSYC6181      First-Year Clinical Practicum II: Ethics
• PSYC7120      Diversity Issues in Clinical Psychology

3rd Semester

• PSYC7110      Research Design & Analysis I
• PSYC7113      Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
• PSYC7121      Cognitive Behavior Therapy
• PSYC7180      Second-Year Clinical Practicum I
• PSYC____     ASTCP_________

4th Semester

• PSYC7111      Research Design & Analysis II
• PSYC7125      Applied Social Psychology
• PSYC7130      Biological Bases of Behavior
• PSYC7181      Second-Year Clinical Practicum II
• PSYC____     ASTCP______________

5th Semester

• PSYC7133      Learning, Cognition, and Emotion
• PSYC8129      Psychopharmacology
• PSYC8180      Third-Year Clinical Practicum I

6th Semester

• PSYC9124      Advanced Research Seminar (1 credit)
• PSYC9138      Professional Development
• PSYC8181      Third-Year Clinical Practicum II

ASTCP (4 REQUIRED)

ADV PSYCHODYNAMIC (2 nd , 3 rd years) SPRING.

CHILD CLINICAL (offered every other year; alternates with Family; open to 2 nd ,3 rd years)

FAMILY THERAPY (2 nd ,3 rd years)

CLINICAL CASE (3 rd year) SPRING

NEUROPSYCH (Fall every odd year; open to 2 nd ,3 rd years)

ADVANCED PERSONALITY ASSESSMENT (Fall, every other even year, open to 2 nd , 3 rd years)

ADVANCED CBT (open to 2 nd , 3 rd years)

Advanced special topics in clinical psychology, 4 required

A class will run if there are sufficient enrollment numbers to support it.

• PSYC8114      Neuropsychology (offered even years in the fall; open to second- and third-year students)
• PSYC9160      Advanced Personality Assessment (offered odd years in the fall; open to second- and third- year students)
• PSYC8127      Clinical Child Psychology (offered  odd years  in the spring; open to second- and third- year students)
• PSYC8145      Advanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (offered in the fall; open to third-year students only)
• PSYC9143      Advanced Psychodynamic Therapy (offered in the spring; open to third-year students only)
• PSYC9145      Seminar in Clinical Psychology (offered in the spring; open to third-year students only)
• PSYC9123 Family Therapy (offered even years in the spring; open to second- and third- year students)

Additional optional coursework and independent studies

• PSYC9112      Dissertation Maintenance (summer)
• PSYC9113      Internship Maintenance (summer)
• PSYC9116      Research Maintenance (summer)
• PSYC9180      4th Year Practicum I (fall)
• PSYC9181      4th Year Practicum II (spring)
• PSYC9280      5th Year Clinical Practicum I (fall)
• PSYC9281      5th Year Practicum II (spring)
• PSYC9800      Independent Study

Special requirements

• First Year Research Practicum
• First Year Clinical Practicum
• Second Year Research practicum
• Second Year Clinical practicum
• Second Year Project
• Third Year Research practicum
• Third Year Clinical practicum
• Teaching Requirement
• Dissertation Accepted
• Qualifying Examination
• Comprehensive Examination

Internship and dissertation

Students are required to apply for internship via the national match system offered by the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) and participate in an approved internship. The internship may begin after the student has completed the courses listed under the first six semesters, completed the second year research project, passed the comprehensive examinations, and successfully defended the dissertation proposal. Typically, the dissertation is completed in the fourth year and the internship in the fifth year.

Evaluations

Ongoing annual evaluations of students will be conducted by the faculty using information submitted by practicum site supervisors, course instructors, and research mentors. Students will meet with the Program Director to receive feedback concerning these evaluations.

Research practicum

All first-, second- and third-year students participate in a research practicum of ongoing projects supervised by doctoral faculty members. The practicum requires approximately 8-10 hours a week. Research projects frequently culminate in the publication of articles in psychological journals and paper and poster presentations at various professional meetings, with students in the doctoral program participating as authors and presenters.

Forensic Track

An optional add-on forensic track is available to students in the Ph.D. program who fulfill the following additional requirements:

• Completion of at least one of the required clinical practicums at any point after the first year. This requirement can be satisfied through an NYNJDOT approved externship or similar placement meeting requirements of the track.
• Completion of at least two additional courses: PSYC7230 Forensic Assessment and Prediction and PSYC7235 Evaluating Criminal Responsibility and Competency.
• Completion of a dissertation on a forensic topic.

It should be noted that research opportunities in forensic psychology are available.

Forensic track courses may incur additional fees if they increase a student’s credit load for a given semester above the allowable flat fee level of 16.5 credits.

Students coming into the program without a Master’s degree may incur additional fees for the two courses mentioned above since they are above and beyond the required courses for the clinical doctoral program.

Completion of the forensic track will be noted on the student’s transcript.

• Long Island Jewish Medical Center—The Zucker Hillside Hospital; Glen Oaks, NY
• Veterans Affairs Medical Center—Bronx, NY
• Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital; Hartford, CT
• NYU Lagone Medical Center (Rusk Inst of Rehab Medicine); NY, NY
• Hudson River Regional Psychology; Poughkeepsie, NY
• Trinitas Regional Medical Center; Elizabeth, NJ
• Albert Einstein College of Medicine—Montefiore Medical Center; Bronx, NY
• Maimonides Medical Center; Brooklyn, NY
• Coler-Goldwater Specialty Hospital and Nursing Facility; Roosevelt Island, NY
• NYU Langone Medical Center (Rusk Inst of Rehab Medicine)-child/adol track; NY, NY
• UMDNJ UBHCH; Newark, NJ
• Westchester Jewish Community Services, Inc.; White Plains, NY
• Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System; Lyons, NJ
• Hudson River Regional Psychology Internship Program; Poughkeepsie, NY
• UMDNJ UBHCN (Child Track); Newark, NJ
• Mercy First; Syosset, NY
• University of New Mexico School of Medicine (Neuropsychology); Albuquerque, NM
• University of Massachusetts Center for Counseling and Psychological Health; Amherst, MA
• Columbia University Medical Center (child track); NY, NY
• Boston Consortium in Clinical Psychology (General Geriatric Neuropsych); Boston, MA
• Association for the Help of Retarded Children Dept of Family and Clinical Services; NY, NY
• VA NY Harbor Health Care System—Brooklyn Campus; Brooklyn, NY
• US Dept of Justice Metropolitan Detention Center; Los Angeles, CA
• Lenox Hill Hospital; NY, NY
• Children’s National Medical Center; Washington, DC
• University of Florida Health Science Center; Gainesville, FL
• Mount Sinai Services; Elmhurst, NY
• Yale University School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
• Queens Children’s Psychiatric Center; Bellerose, NY
• VAMC—North Chicago; North Chicago, IL
• Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital’s Mental Health Network (Adult Track); Hartford, CT
• Temple University Health Sciences Center; Philadelphia, PA
• Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital; Morris Plains, NJ
• Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital’s Mental Health Network (Child/Adol Track); Hartford, CT
• Charleston Consortium Psychology Internship Program; Charleston, SC
• Interfaith Medical Center; Brooklyn, NY
• UCSD Psychology Internship Consortium/Veterans Affairs; San Diego, CA
• Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver; Denver, CO
• Columbia University Medical Center; NY, NY
• Mount Sinai Medical Center; NY, NY
• Univ. of S. Carolina, Counseling & Human Development Center; Columbia, SC
• VA Maryland Health Care System (Neuropsych); Baltimore, MD
• Astor Services for Children and Families; Poughkeepsie, NY
• Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services, Inc.; NY, NY
• VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System—Montrose Campus; Montrose, NY
• Kings County Hospital Center (Adult Track); Brooklyn, NY
• Jewish Child Care Association of NY; Pleasantville, NY
• Louis Stokes Cleveland DVA Medical Center; Cleveland, OH
• NYU—Bellevue Hospital Center Clinical Psych.; NY, NY
• American Institute for Cognitive Therapy; NY, NY
• Behavior Therapy Associates; Somerset, NJ
• Bellevue Hospital Center; NY, NY
• Bergen County Division fo Family Guidance – Forensic Unit; Hackensack, NJ
• Beth Israel Medical Center; NY, NY
• Bronx Children’s Psychiatric Center; Bronx, NY
• Center for Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy; NY, NY
• Children’s Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CCPEP); NY, NY
• City College CUNY; NY, NY
• Columbia University Medical Center Neuropsychology Service; NY, NY
• Columbia-Presbyterian’s Children’s Hospital; NY, NY
• Community Mental Health Services, St. Marys Hospital; Hoboken, NJ
• Henry Ittleson Center; Bronx, NY
• Hoboken University Medical Center; Hoboken, NJ
• Holliswood Hospital; Holliswood, NY
• Jacobi Medical Center; Bronx, NY
• Jamaica Hospital Medical Center; Jamaica, NY
• Jewish Board of Family & Children’s Services (JBFCS); Douglaston, NY
• Jewish Board of Family & Children’s Services (JBFCS); Riverdale, NY
• JFK Medical Center-The Center for Behavioral Health; Edison, NJ
• Karen Horney Clinic; NY, NY
• Kings County Hospital Center; Brooklyn, NY
• Mt. Sinai Adult Inpatient Unit; NY, NY
• Mt. Sinai Child & Family Support Program; NY, NY
• Mt. Sinai Eating and Weight Disorders Program; NY, NY
• Mt. Sinai Medical Center Department of Neurology; NY, NY
• Mt. Sinai Medical Center, Dept of Rehabilitation Medicine; NY, NY
• Mt. Sinai Obsessive Compulsive Disorders Treatment Center; NY, NY
• Nassau University Medical Center; East Meadow, NY
• New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College – Manhattan Division; NY, NY
• North Central Bronx Hospital; Bronx, NY
• South Beach Psychiatric Center; Staten Island, NY
• St. Barnabas Hospital; Bronx, NY
• St. Dominics Home; Bronx, NY
• St. Luke’s – Roosevelt Hospitals; NY, NY
• Staten Island University Hospital; Staten Island, NJ
• The Addiction Institute of New York; NY, NY
• The Center of Alcohol Studies at Rutgers; Piscataway, NJ
• William Paterson University – Counseling Center; Wayne, NJ
• Yale Young Adult Services; New Haven, CT
• YCS Institute for Infant and Preschool Mental health; East Orange, NJ
• Youth Development Clinic; Newark, NJ
• Barnard College Furman Counseling; NY, NY
• Behavioral Associates; NY, NY
• Connecticut Children’s Medical Center School; Wethersfield, CT
• Division of Family Guidance; Hackensack, NJ
• Elmhurst Hospital Center – Mt. Sinai Services; Elmhurst, NY
• Essex County Hospital Center; Cedar Grove, NJ
• Fay J Linder Center for Autism; Long Island, NY
• FDU Center for Psychological Services – Assessment emphasis; Hackensack, NJ
• FDU Center for Psychological Services – Therapy emphasis; Hackensack, NJ
• Four Winds Hospital; Katonah, NY
• Hackensack Univ. Medical Center, Audrey Hepburn’s Children’s House; Hackensack, NJ
• Hackensack University Medical Center; Hackensack, NJ
• Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center; Ward’s Island, NY
• Leake and Watts Services, Inc.; Yonkers, NY
• Lincoln Hospital; Bronx, NY
• Long Island Jewish Medical Center, The Zucker Hillside Hospital; North Shore, Long Island NY
• Manhattan Psychiatric Center; Randall’s Island, NY
• Memorial Sloan Kettering; NY, NY
• Metropolitan Correctional Center; NY, NY
• Montclair State University Counseling Center; Montclair, NJ
• Montefiore Medical Center of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine; Bronx, NY
• Northeast Epilepsy group; NY, NY & Hackensack, NJ
• NYSPI at Columbia Presbyterian; NY, NY
• NYU Child Study Center; Hackensack, NJ
• NYU Comprehensive Epilepsy Center; NY, NY
• NYU Counseling Center; NY, NY
• Phipps Community Development Corporation; Bronx, NY
• Princeton House Behavioral Health; Princeton, NJ
• Queens Hospital Center; Jamaica, Queens
• Regional Diagnostic &Treatment Center at Children’s Hospital of NJ; Newark, NJ
• Rehabilitation Specialists; Fair Lawn, NJ
• Rockland Children’s Psychiatric Center; Orangeburg, NY
• Seton Hall University – Counseling Services; South Orange, NJ
• The Women’s Health Project Treatment and Research Center – St Luke’s Hosp.; NY, NY
• Tomorrow’s Children Institute at Hackensack Hospital; Hackensack, NJ
• Trinitas Hospital Child and Adolescent Outpatient Unit; Elizabeth, NJ
• Uconn; Farmington, CT
• UMDNJ-UBHC; Piscataway, NJ
• Washington Heights Community Center at Columbia-Presbyterian/NYSPI; NY, NY
• Weill Cornell Medical College/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, White Plains, NY
• Westchester Jewish Community Services; Hartsdale, NY

School of Psychology and Counseling

More about PhD in Clinical Psychology

Offered by the Department of Psychology   , College of Arts and Sciences   , the Clinical Psychology (PhD) program is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association Committee on Accreditation (COA) and has been accredited since 1972. COA is part of the Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation (OPCA).

OPCA contact information is as follows:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation 750 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20002-4242 Phone: 202-336-5979 TDD/TTY: 202-336-6123 Fax: 202-336-5978 Email: [email protected] https://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

Admission to the Program

In addition to meeting the minimum university requirements for graduate study, applicants must submit a completed graduate application form, Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores for the General examination (Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytic) and Advanced Psychology test, three letters of recommendation, and copies of all college transcripts. The GRE Advanced Psychology test is recommended but not required. Those applicants to the Clinical Psychology program judged to be among the top applicants are invited for an interview, and the final selection is based on all information, including the interview. Students are admitted for full-time study only.

Degree Requirements

• Students who have been admitted to the doctoral program in psychology but do not have an MA in psychology that has been accepted by the department must complete the degree requirements for the Psychology (MA)    (thesis option; thesis seminar not required) before they can be awarded the doctorate
• One tool of research is required but does not result in course credit toward the degree. The tool requirement is defined as the dissemination of a research tool. Please see the Department of  Psychology    for further information
• Two comprehensive examinations, which involve students in the kinds of activities they will later engage in as professional psychologists. The written comprehensive is an examination on supervision and consultation. The oral comprehensive is a specialty examination, which involves a clinical presentation
• Dissertation: A written proposal for the dissertation must be submitted and signed by the student’s dissertation committee before the student can apply for internship. The dissertation, when completed, must be accepted by the dissertation committee, the department chair, and the university
• As part of the doctoral requirements, clinical students serve a one-year externship and a one-year internship in an appropriate setting outside the university

Course Requirements

Required (48 credit hours).

Note: 3 credit hours of assessment coursework approved by the director of clinical training may be used as substitute for  PSYC-618 Principles of Neuropsychological Assessment (3)   .  

• PSYC-600 Advanced Memory and Cognition (3)
• PSYC-618 Principles of Neuropsychological Assessment (3)
• PSYC-621 Ethnic and Minority Issues in Psychology (3)
• PSYC-622 Stress, Coping, and Emotion (3)
• PSYC-630 Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, and Practice (3)
• PSYC-633 Psychological Assessment I (3)
• PSYC-641 Advanced Social Psychology (3)
• PSYC-650 Psychological Research (3)
• PSYC-651 Psychopathology: Theory and Research (3)
• PSYC-652 Assessment of Intellectual Function and Personality (3)
• PSYC-660 Advanced Developmental Psychology (3)
• PSYC-680 Experiential/Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Practicum I (3)
• PSYC-681 Experiential/Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Practicum II (3)
• PSYC-710 Cognitive-Behavior Therapy Practicum I (3)
• PSYC-711 Cognitive-Behavior Therapy Practicum II (3)
• PSYC-797 Master’s Thesis Research (1-3) (3 credit hours required)

Practicum Sequence (6 credit hours)

Complete one of the following practicum sequences:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with Youth

• PSYC-780 Advanced Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with Youth I (3)
• PSYC-781 Advanced Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with Youth II (3)

Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies

• PSYC-793 Advanced Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies Practicum I (3)
• PSYC-794 Advanced Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies Practicum II (3)

Biological Bases of Behavior (3 credit hours)

Complete 3 credit hours from the following:

• PSYC-518 Advanced Human Neuropsychology (3)
• PSYC-601 Physiological Psychology (3)
• PSYC-613 Neuropharmacology: The Biochemistry of Behavior (3)

Statistics (6 credit hours)

Complete 6 credit hours from the following:

• DATA-612 Statistical Programming in R (3)
• DATA-613 Data Science (3)
• GOVT-618 Bayesian Statistics (3)

 / STAT-618 Bayesian Statistics (3)  

• PSYC-640 Statistical Methods for Mediation and Moderation in Psychology (3)
• STAT-516 Design of Experiments (3)
• STAT-517 Special Topics in Statistical Methodology (3)
• STAT-519 Nonparametric Statistics (3)
• STAT-520 Applied Multivariate Analysis (3)
• STAT-521 Analysis of Categorical Data (3)
• STAT-522 Time-Series Analysis (3)
• STAT-615 Regression (3)
• STAT-616 Generalized Linear Models (3)
• STAT-622 Advanced Biostatistics (3)
• STAT-623 Topics in Biostatistics (3)
• STAT-625 Statistical Software (3)
• STAT-627 Statistical Machine Learning (3)

Electives (7 credit hours)

• 7 credit hours from approved electives

Internship (0 credit hours)

Complete the following while away on internship (in addition to PSYC-899 Doctoral Dissertation (9)   ):

• PSYC-091 Internship (0) (taken 2-3 times)

Dissertation

• PSYC-899 Doctoral Dissertation (9) (only after advancement to candidacy)

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Online Graduate Programs / Online Psychology Programs / Clinical Psychology

Pepperdine University MA in Clinical Psychology | Online Pepperdine University MA in Clinical Psychology | Online Pepperdine University MA in Clinical Psychology | Online

The Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) at Pepperdine University offers two paths to licensure to support your career goals: the  licensed professional clinical counselor  track and the  licensed marriage and family therapist  track. The Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) at Pepperdine University offers two paths to licensure to support your career goals: the  licensed professional clinical counselor  track and the  licensed marriage and family therapist  track. The Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) at Pepperdine University offers two paths to licensure to support your career goals: the  licensed professional clinical counselor  track and the  licensed marriage and family therapist  track.

Get Admission and Tuition Information

Answer a few quick questions to determine which path to licensure within our online MA in Clinical Psychology is a good fit for you.

No GRE required

• Earn Your LPC Licensure  — Gain the skills and knowledge required to take the professional LPC licensure exam.
• Earn Your LMFT Licensure  — Our marriage and family therapy program prepares students with the academic requirements to sit for the LMFT licensure exam.
• Empower Your Patients  — Help clients lead happier and healthier lives by offering them a safe space for reflection and pragmatic resolutions.

Earn Your Master’s in Clinical Psychology Online

The online Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program from Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology prepares you for a rewarding career helping individuals, couples, and families thrive. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to earn your licensure as an LPC or LMFT.

While earning your  clinical psychology degree online , you will learn from our esteemed faculty without having to relocate, and you will complete the same highly regarded curriculum and clinical placements that are required of on-campus students.

Pepperdine University was ranked #1 Best Online College for ROI for master’s in marriage and family therapy programs and #3 for Best Online College for ROI for master’s in counseling programs in 2020. 1

Admissions Overview

Request Info

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Online clinical psychology master’s program highlights.

Prepare to positively affect the health and well-being of those in need by completing the following curriculum requirements:

sessions of field placement

Graduate ready to earn your LPC or LMFT licensure in as few as 27 months.

On-Campus MA in Clinical Psychology MFT Programs

Pepperdine’s MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy prepares you to be a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) or licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC). Offered in a daytime or evening format with over 130 clinical practicum sites, pursue your passion through meaningful service and purpose at Pepperdine GSEP.

Visit our on-campus site to learn more and apply to the on-campus program. Note that on-campus and online MA in Clinical Psychology program applications are separate. Access the online application here.

Clinical Psychology Online Licensure Options: LPC vs. LMFT

Pepperdine’s online clinical psychology master’s program  prepares you to pursue licensure  as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT).

The LPC Path

Choose this path if you want to help with:

• A broader scope of mental health issues.
• Diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and addictive disorders.
• Providing service to a larger audience, including individuals, families, and larger organizations.

Learn More About the LPC Path

The LMFT Path

Choose this path if you want to help people with:

• Issues that stem from marriage and family dynamics and parent-child conflicts.
• Depression, substance abuse, and trauma, and how they affect couples and families.

Learn More About the LMFT Path

FAQ: Does the curriculum differ for each path?

It doesn’t. Foundational courses are the same regardless of the licensure path you wish to pursue. You will have the opportunity to customize your degree through electives.

Clinical Psychology Licensure Requirements by State

The program is designed to ensure that upon graduation, you will have met all academic requirements to  sit for the LMFT or LPC licensure exams  in the state of California. Visit the following pages for an overview of the requirements for each license:

• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) California Requirements
• Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPC) California Requirements

OnlinePsychology@Pepperdine’s Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program offers an LPC licensure path, an LMFT licensure path, or both licensure options in certain states. View which licensure paths are available in the following states outside of California.

New Hampshire

Washington D.C.

West Virginia

The licensure paths available to students outside of California are tied specifically to the program’s ability to operate within certain states. Based on your state of residence,  you may be restricted in which licensure path you can pursue.  You will be asked to declare a licensure path when you apply for the program, and based on the approval in your state, you may not be able to change your path while enrolled.

Licensure requirements vary by state, therefore  Pepperdine University strongly encourages you to contact the licensing board  in the state in which you intend to practice prior to enrolling in the OnlinePsychology@Pepperdine program. Learn more about  LMFT licensure requirements  or  LPC licensure requirements  in your state.

Pursue Your Purpose

Learn more about the online master’s in psychology curriculum from Pepperdine University.

Now is the time. Advance your career with Pepperdine. Take the next step today.

OnlinePsychology@Pepperdine seeks students who are committed to  cultivating a deep understanding of human behavior  while advancing their capability to serve those in need. We accept applications on a rolling basis and offer you the option to start earning your psychology degree at various times throughout the year.

• A bachelor’s degree is required to apply.
• GRE scores are not required.
• Application fee waivers are available for those who meet the priority deadline.

Visit our Application Requirements page for further details.

Cohorts start four times per year in winter, spring, summer, and fall.  

You will need to complete 62 to 68 units to graduate. To gain a better understanding of the total cost of your degree, Pepperdine offers a calculator tool to approximate the cost of tuition .

Financial aid opportunities are available for Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology students.  Students may utilize military education benefits, employer tuition assistance, federal student loans, private loans, or scholarships  to assist with program expenses.

Requirements for scholarships vary.  For more information about scholarship opportunities, please call our admissions team at  +1-855-270-5431 .

For more information, visit the Tuition and Financial Aid page.

On-Campus Master’s Programs

If you are interested in joining us on campus, we offer an on-campus Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology as well as a breadth of traditional psychology master’s programs at multiple campus locations. Note that the on-campus and online programs have separate applications.

Explore our on-campus master’s programs.

Earn Your Master’s Online. Help People Thrive.

Learn more about earning your master’s in clinical psychology online from Pepperdine University.

Access Your Application

Curriculum Overview

Our curriculum focuses on current applied methods of psychotherapy, offering a practice-based course of study with clinical training in or near your community. You will learn about various topics, including the social and psychological implications of socioeconomics and how poverty and social stress affect the ability of individuals, couples, and families to thrive.

Regardless of the licensure path you wish to pursue, our foundation courses are the same. You will have the opportunity to choose electives that most interest you during the program.

Upon graduation, you will know how to:

• diagnose clients
• formulate clinical cases
• develop treatment plans
• facilitate therapeutic processes

Course Work

The course catalog  includes 6 units of core courses that  build the foundation of your clinical psychology education  and frame the concepts you’ll explore throughout the program. After these foundation courses, you will complete 62 units of master’s-level courses that expose you to the latest advancements being discussed in the field today.

Foundation courses include Psychopathology and Behavioral Principles and Theories of Learning. You may be able to waive these courses if you completed them for your undergraduate degree. To qualify for a waiver, course work must have been completed within the last seven years at a regionally accredited institution, and you must have earned a grade of “B” or better.

Course Spotlight: Multicultural Counseling

Consider how people’s identities and backgrounds relate to mental health and treatment. Explore how counselors can take into account clients’ race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, spirituality, sexual orientation, gender, and ableness.

Course Spotlight: Techniques of Counseling and Psychotherapy

Learn how to interview, formulate clinical cases, develop treatment plans, and facilitate therapeutic processes consistent with major theoretical approaches. Gain practical skills through examination of clinical case material and supervised exercises.

Sample Course Topics

• Multicultural counseling
• Sexuality and intimacy
• Substance abuse treatment
• Diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders
• Assessment of individuals, couples, and families
• Theory of counseling and psychotherapy
• Trauma in diverse populations

Read course descriptions  for more information about the classes you will take in the online clinical psychology master’s program.

Curious to know what your schedule might look like?   Check out a sample course sequence (PDF).

Clinical Training

As part of the program, you will take four terms of clinical practicum, where you will receive clinical training under the supervision of a licensed therapist or counselor at an approved clinical site near your community. Ahead of your clinical practicum, you will take the Preparation for Practicum course , which will introduce you to key skills needed while working directly with clients.

For students in California intending to  pursue licensure as a marriage and family therapist (LMFT) , 225 hours must be spent directly with clients. For students in California intending to  pursue licensure as a professional clinical counselor (LPC) , 280 hours must be spent directly with clients.

The licensure path you choose and state of intended employment will determine the breakdown of hours you must complete as part of your clinical training.

As a student, you will work with our  dedicated placement team to find and secure Pepperdine-approved practicum and internship opportunities, where you can observe professional counselors and gain experience working directly with clients.

All students outside of California will be required to complete 700 total placement hours, including the 225 (LMFT) or 280 (LPC) hours spent directly with clients.

Antiracism and Antidiscrimination Statement

The MA in Clinical Psychology program and GSEP psychology division stand in solidarity against racial inequities and injustice and other forms of discrimination and oppression. We are committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that is enriched and strengthened by diversity, including but not limited to race, ethnicity and national origin, gender and gender identity, sexuality, class, age, ability status, and religion. GSEP also encourages all community members to engage in critical learning and reflection to strengthen our capacity for being effective, active, and outspoken against all forms of racism and intersectional oppression.

Passionate and Purpose-Driven Faculty

Graduate School of Education and Psychology  faculty are active clinicians and experts in their disciplines  who are dedicated to helping you grow as you pursue your career as a counselor or marriage and family therapist. The practitioners and professors you’ll collaborate with have  a deep passion for inspiring future leaders  in the field of psychology.

Learn more on the GSEP Meet Our Faculty page.

Become a Catalyst for Improvement Among Individuals, Families, and Communities. Learn More Today.

1 2020 Best Online Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Master’s Programs. Retrieved May 17, 2021, from https://www.onlineu.com/degrees/masters-marriage-and-family-therapy ; 2020 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Degrees. Retrieved May 12, 2021, from https://www.onlineu.com/degrees/masters-counseling arrow_upward Return to footnote reference

Please note: This is a new program for the 2024–2025 academic year. Prospective students should apply for this program by July 1, 2024 for the fall 2024 semester . Most graduate classes for new programs will begin on August 14. See  umgc.edu/calendar  for more information.

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Online Master's Degree: Clinical Professional Counseling

Clinical professional counseling, degree at a glance.

• Transfer up to 12 credits
• All courses available online
• Program-specific admission requirements
• Available to MD residents
• Limited spaces for fall 2024

TUITION RATES

• $534 per credit (in-state)
• $659 per credit (out-of-state)
• $336 per credit (military)
• Other fees may apply

Earn a Master of Science in Clinical Professional Counseling at University of Maryland Global Campus and build the skills, knowledge, and expertise to help you become a trained professional in an important field. Benefit from a comprehensive, rigorous curriculum designed to help you access career-focused information in a  convenient online program . Learn from expert faculty members who blend practical experience with theory and techniques to help you develop a solid foundation in mental health and wellness. Become a professional mental health counselor who can help serve this critical field. Apply to UMGC today!

Please note:  You must satisfy all  program-specific admission requirements  before enrolling in this degree program.

Build a Solid Foundation for a Career in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

At its core, this online master's degree program emphasizes UMGC’s goal of helping students develop an understanding of ethics and civic awareness alongside personal, theoretical, and professional competencies; job-seeking skills; and capacity for lifelong learning. As you progress through the online program curriculum, you will take increasingly specialized coursework in crucial clinical mental health counseling-related subject areas. 

In this program, you’ll benefit from a curriculum that begins with a self-paced onboarding course and continues to help you build career-focused skills in the following course groupings: 

• Foundational courses in professional orientation, applied counseling theory and techniques, human development, and multicultural/diversity knowledge and awareness. 
• Core courses in advanced theory, application, and techniques that incorporate psychopathology and diagnosis, group counseling, and research methods and program evaluation. 
• Specialized courses to help you build advanced knowledge and practical applied skill-development in clinical mental health counseling specialties, including substance use and dependency; career development; behavioral disorders; and marriage, couples, and family.

See Courses & Program Info

View a complete list of program courses; eligibility requirements; field experience details; NCE, LGPC, and LCPC information; and more.

Fulfill Program Admission Requirements

Review the program-specific admission requirements carefully, as you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements and submit documentation to be considered for admission to the program.

Program Admission Requirements

For fall 2024, this program is only available to Maryland residents .

You will need to meet the following requirements in order to be considered for admission to this program.

• Apply by July 1, 2024 for the fall 2024 semester.
• Meet UMGC’s graduate admission requirements .
• Hold an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0.
• Submit official transcripts from previous colleges or universities.
• Two recommendation letters: These should ideally be from previous professors or someone who can comment on your academic ability and/or potential for success as a professional counselor.
• Essay/statement of purpose: Describe your relevant professional experience and education, your interests, and your goals in pursuing this counseling degree. The essay should be a maximum of two typed pages, single-spaced.
• Resume or CV: Please attach this to your essay/statement of purpose.
• Signed attestation: Signed attestation of Maryland residence and intent to seek licensure and employment in the State of Maryland. You are expected to remain a Maryland resident throughout the duration of the program.

You will receive specific formatting guidance and submission instructions when you apply to the program.

As you advance through this counseling program curriculum, you’ll need to meet additional requirements before beginning the first supervised fieldwork in the practicum course. Within the first 120 days of program enrollment, you will need to complete a criminal background check . Submission of these required materials will be part of the practicum site approval process.

Experience Recommended for Success

While this is not required, previous work or volunteer experience in health or human services, social work, counseling programs, or a related educational program may help you 

• Understand and apply concepts you’ll encounter throughout the counseling degree curriculum.
• Gain exposure to a variety of professions in the clinical mental health counseling field.
• Build your interpersonal skills.
• Develop an understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and communities.

View Clinical Professional Counseling Courses

This program requires a total of 60 credits.  You'll begin by taking an Onboarding Program Orientation before starting your coursework.

• Required foundation courses: 12 credits 
• Required core courses: 39 credits 
• Elective courses: 9 credits 

Foundation Courses 

• Professional Orientation in Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 604) 
• Legal, Ethical, and Professional Practices in Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 606) 
• Social and Cultural Foundations in Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 611) 
• Lifespan and Development: Perspectives and Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 612) 

Core Courses 

• Research Design and Program Evaluation in Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 614) 
• Applied Theories of Counseling  (3 Credits, CNSL 621) 
• Counseling Techniques: The Helping Relationship  (3 Credits, CNSL 622) 
• Psychopathology and Diagnosis (3 Credits, CNSL 624) 
• Group Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 626) 
• Advanced Techniques of Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 627) 
• Assessment and Appraisal in Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 628) 
• Foundations of Substance Use and Addictions Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 631) 
• Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 632) 
• Career Development and Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 633) 
• Practicum (3 Credits, CNSL 690) 
• Internship 1: Professional Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 691) 
• Internship 2: Professional Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 692)

Elective Courses

You’ll need to take three elective courses (for a total of 9 credits) from our approved list in the "Select Clinical Professional Counseling Electives” section.

Select Clinical Professional Counseling Electives

This program requires a total of 9 elective credits . To fulfill this requirement, take three courses from the following approved list:

• Introduction to School Counseling  (3 Credits, CNSL 634) 
• Introduction to Psychopharmacology (3 Credits, CNSL 641) 
• Substance Use and Dependency Treatment Delivery (3 Credits, CNSL 643) 
• Co-Occurring Disorders (3 Credits, CNSL 644) 
• Special Topics in Addiction Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 648) 
• Relationships Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 651) 
• Sexual Issues in Marriage and Family Therapy (3 Credits, CNSL 653) 
• Counseling Children and Adolescents (3 Credits, CNSL 661) 
• Child and Adolescent Psychopathology (3 Credits, CNSL 663) 
• Expressive and Creative Arts in Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 668) 
• Military Culture (3 Credits, CNSL 671) 
• Counseling Military Families (3 Credits, CNSL 673) 
• Trauma, Crisis, and Disaster Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 678) 
• Biopsychosocial Aspects of Health, Behavioral Health, Aging and Disability (3 Credits, CNSL 681) 
• Counseling the Older Adult (3 Credits, CNSL 683) 
• Biopsychosocial Approach to Sexuality Across the Lifespan (3 Credits, CNSL 685) 
• Diversity and Sexuality: Sociocultural, Medical, Technological, and Ethical Influences (3 Credits, CNSL 687) 
• Sex Therapy in Action: Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Psychosexual Issues and Dysfunction (3 Credits, CNSL 688) 
• Seminar: Special Topics in Counseling (3 Credits, CNSL 689) 
• Internship 1: Substance Use and Addictions (3 Credits, CNSL 693) 
• Internship 2: Substance Use and Addictions (3 Credits, CNSL 694) 
• Internship Bridge (3 Credits, CNSL 696) 

Explore the Supervised Clinical Field Experience

The clinical professional counseling program requires 100 hours of supervised clinical field experiences embodied in practicum and 300 hours in each of two internships. These experiences are devoted to practicing specific clinical skills, including interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation in clinics, agencies, and other organizations that provide clinical mental health counseling services.

You will pursue site experiences that can provide the types of activities, numbers of clients, and supervision needed to meet counseling degree fieldwork requirements, as well as any specific fieldwork requirements of your state licensure board. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the licensure and supervised fieldwork requirements for your state.

See Overall Master’s & Course Sequencing Requirements

Course progression & prerequisites .

You may take courses in any order, provided that you meet the prerequisites and corequisites supporting appropriate course sequencing. You can find this information in the individual course descriptions. 

General Master's Degree Requirements

• You must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher at all times.
• All degree requirements must be fulfilled within five consecutive years.
• Any transfer credits must have been earned within the above five-year time frame to be applied toward a graduate degree.
• Please review the  overall master’s degree requirements  for additional considerations.

Prepare for the NCE Exam & LGPC Requirements

This program is structured to prepare you for the National Counselor Examination (NCE) , administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors. This exam is used by the state of Maryland and other states as a requirement for licensure as a professional mental health counselor. Each state also sets additional requirements related to post-degree supervised counseling experience as part of the licensing process.

The program is designed to prepare Maryland residents to meet the state’s requirements to become a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) . If you are a Maryland resident, you may apply to become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) once you have completed 2,000 clinic hours post-graduation.

Read Important Information on Accreditation Standards

All aspects of the courses and practicum have been designed to align with Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) 2024 accreditation standards. However, at the present time the CPC program is not eligible for accreditation. The program will seek accreditation from MPCAC once MPCAC's standard of a minimum of four graduates within the prior two years has been achieved. In addition, this program has been carefully designed to meet the requirements for licensure as a professional counselor in Maryland, but students are encouraged to contact the MD Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists directly to determine if other requirements are necessary. Maryland does not require accreditation by MPCAC or CACREP to be eligible for licensure.

Review Course Catalog

This information is for students who enroll in the 2024–2025 academic year. As this is the first year this program is offered, there will be no differing UMGC program requirements for previous years. To review information about other programs, visit our program catalog archive .

Gain Guided Experience in Mental Health & Counseling Services

This program is designed to help learners like you become clinical professional counselors equipped with therapeutic, progressive diagnostic, and consultative skills. We aim to promote personal and professional growth through coursework and supervised field experiences, enhancing your ability to deliver client-centered, culturally responsive, and ethically competent mental health counseling services.

Our program focuses on helping students achieve the following: 

Lead with Knowledge, Ethics, & Empathy

This online master's degree program is designed to help you prepare for mental health counseling-related employment as a licensed practitioner. Graduates may be prepared to work in various settings, including mental health centers, drug and alcohol treatment programs, correctional institutions, healthcare settings, social service agencies, private practice, and business and industry.

Practice Real-World Skills in Your Coursework

Throughout the online master's degree program, your instructors will assign coursework that will help you prioritize real-world skills and hands-on experiences. You may engage in course projects that include the following:

• Interviewing practicing mental health counselors that work in different contexts (e.g., school, community, private practice) gaining insights into their use of assessment tools and current trends in the field of practice.
• Role-playing and simulations, readying you to conduct intake interviews or create treatment plans.
• Experiential modules like mock counseling sessions and group exercises that help you apply what you learn in a practical context.
• Program evaluations, working collaboratively with classmates to evaluate, analyze, and generate actionable recommendations for program enhancement.
• Case studies that apply professional standards and develop ethical decision-making

Explore UMGC Insights

Gain insight and delve deeper into a range of topics, including clinical mental health counseling, mental health and wellness, psychology, student networking, and more.

How to Network as a Student

Learn about the importance of networking as a student and the multiple opportunities UMGC offers.

Relationships, Resilience, and Wellbeing: The Science of Gratitude

Scientific research suggests that gratitude may be the key to a happier life.

Studying Psychology Can Open the Door to Many Career Opportunities - Video

Earn a degree in psychology to help address the shortage of mental health professionals.

You might be interested in similar programs

Compare All Programs

Get answers to questions that current and prospective students are asking about program-specific admission, credibility, taking courses in counseling online, and more.

What is an online master's degree in clinical professional counseling?

The online master's degree in clinical professional counseling is a career-focused graduate program that is designed to prepare you to meet the growing need for clinical mental health counseling professionals in community, business, and school counseling settings.

In this 60-credit online program, you’ll benefit from a counseling degree curriculum that begins with a self-paced onboarding course and continues to help you build career-focused skills in professional orientation, applied counseling theory and techniques, human development, and multicultural/diversity knowledge and awareness. 

You will also build knowledge in advanced theory, application, and techniques that incorporate psychopathology and diagnosis, group clinical mental health counseling, and research methods and program evaluation. Specialized and elective courses will help you focus on specific subject areas, including substance use and dependency; career development; behavioral disorders; and marriage, couples, and family therapy.

Be sure to check with your state's licensure board for any additional information about clinical mental health counseling careers in your state and any requirements you must meet after successful completion of this program.

How long does it take to get a master’s degree in clinical professional counseling online?

As a 60-credit graduate program, UMGC's online master's degree in clinical professional counseling is one of our larger programs. If you take 12 credits of coursework each fall and spring term and 6 credits in the summer, you may be able to graduate in two and a half years. With a more conservative approach of 9 credits each fall and spring term and 6 credits in the summer, you may be able to graduate in less than three and a half years.

These estimates can change depending on how many credits you complete each term and the number of credits you may be able to transfer  to UMGC.

Please note that you will have to pursue professional experience after successful completion of the program to receive licensure. Be sure to check with your state's licensure board for any additional details.

How much does a master’s in clinical professional counseling cost?

UMGC is committed to keeping our tuition and fees as affordable as possible. The online master's in clinical professional counseling follows the standard graduate program tuition rates, which appear at the top of this webpage. We also offer scholarships  for eligible students and an interest-free monthly payment plan .

Costs associated with textbook rentals, purchases, and special technology needs will be minimized when possible, and should be expected by learners of this program. As a professional preparatory program, the need for specialized content that is current and aligns with professional standards of practice is essential.

What background do I need to get a master’s in clinical professional counseling online?

You don't need to have majored in a specific area to be successful in the online master's degree in clinical counseling program at UMGC. However, you will need to meet specific admission requirements to be accepted into this counseling program and also pass a background check to complete supervised fieldwork during practicum and internships.

Plus, previous coursework (e.g., introductory psychology, introductory statistics, research methods, and lifespan development) or experiences in related helping professions may be beneficial. These experiences will familiarize yourself with course concepts and professional counseling environments in different industries.

All program-specific admission requirements and recommended experiences are listed in the counseling degree courses section of this page.

Our helpful admissions advisors can help you choose an academic program to fit your career goals, estimate your transfer credits, and develop a plan for your education costs that fits your budget. If you’re a current UMGC student, please visit the Help Center .

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University of Bridgeport News

How to Choose a Master’s in Counseling Program

Individuals interested in human behavior and personal growth with a desire to help others often pursue a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program . This is a excellent career path, given employment for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors is expected to grow eighteen percent by 2032 , much faster than the average for all occupations.

As a result, with an average of about 42,000 job openings projected each year, many candidates choose to invest time and effort in a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program . Yet, with so many Counseling Master of Science (MS) programs out there, prospective students often wonder how to choose a Counseling MS program in the first place.

So below, we’ll unpack the basics and discover the process of choosing the right counseling graduate program for you.

What is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program?

Firstly, a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students to become mental health counselors by teaching and training them to work with patients on healthy communication, coping mechanisms, and interrupting trauma cycles.

Students in these typically sixty-credit degree programs take foundational courses in psychopathology, addiction treatment, clinical skills, and psychotherapeutics.

Common course titles include:

• Appraisal Processes
• Career and Lifestyle Development
• Human Growth and Development
• Research Methods
• Social and Cultural Foundations
• Theories of Counseling
• Topics in Behavioral Medicine
• Trauma and Crisis Intervention

Students should also expect to complete supervised training through internships which are typically completed over two semesters (or the course of a full academic year). In addition to these two 300-hour semester internships, students are required to complete a 100-hour practicum.

While the amount of time it takes to complete a Counseling MS program varies, it generally takes four academic semesters or two years of full-time enrollment. Part-time students generally complete this degree in three or more years.

How to choose a Master’s in Counseling program

There are many different Master’s in Counseling degree programs, each with its own approach and curriculum. So, how can prospective students know how to choose a Master’s in Counseling program? We’re glad you asked!

Consider asking yourself the following questions when researching and choosing a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.

1. Is the degree program reputable/accredited?

In order to become a licensed counselor, candidates must earn their degree from an accredited Counseling MS program. These programs are accredited by The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs ( CACREP ).

The CACREP develops and maintains standards and procedures that ensure students in counseling and related programs receive the highest-quality education. This ensures that they are fully prepared for their state’s licensing exam and find success in their professional careers.

Additional benefits include:

• An advantage when applying to doctoral degree programs
• A program focused on professional counseling (not psychology or education)
• A wider range of employment opportunities
• CACREP-accredited programs are professionally and financially stable

Counseling programs seeking CACREP accreditation must complete a self-study process, submit a comprehensive report demonstrating how it meets each CACREP standard, and undergo an on-site visit.

University of Bridgeport’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling MS degree program in the College of Arts and Sciences is accredited by the CACREP.

Make compassion your calling. Download our free informational guide today and get started with University of Bridgeport!

2. does the program specialize in clinical mental health counseling.

Though all accredited programs must cover mandated topics, every college and university’s Counseling MS program will vary.

For example, some programs integrate spiritual perspectives in their coursework, while others offer opportunities for students to specialize in topics like drama therapy, grief counseling, and wellness counseling. So students should consider opportunities to integrate personal and professional interests and goals when choosing a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.

If you are passionate about helping others navigate life’s mental and emotional challenges, look for a program that offers courses and internships focused on mental health. At University of Bridgeport, for example, students intern in mental health and substance abuse clinical settings , including hospitals, intensive outpatient programs, outpatient programs, and residential treatment facilities.

3. What format is the program offered in (online, on-campus, hybrid)?

The amount of time it takes for someone to complete a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program varies depending on the area of counseling an individual is interested in, where they want to work, and the state’s requirements.

Moreover, when choosing the right counseling graduate program, candidates should consider what program format will best fit their needs and schedule. Do you thrive in an in-person environment where you can ask questions of the professor directly? Or, do you need a more flexible program, and choosing a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program that is online is the best option? Or, maybe you want a combination of the two, and enrolling in a hybrid program is the way to go?

University of Bridgeport’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program offers daytime and night courses to fit students’ specific needs and schedules.

4. What is the flexibility of the program?

Similar to the learning format, the flexibility of the program is another important factor in determining how to choose a Counseling MS program. Online pathways or flexible options for MPH programs can be vital if you plan on working during the semester or need flexibility for other reasons.

Students should contact their chosen university directly or visit its official website as part of their research. Note that depending on the program’s design and flexibility, full-time Counseling MS students typically take between three to five courses per semester, and part-time students can expect to take one to three courses per semester.

5. Does the program promise strong career outcomes?

Counseling and other mental health care careers are in high demand as these jobs are available in various settings , including inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, correctional facilities, hospitals, residential treatment centers, and private practices.

Students should look for programs that will prepare them for a personally and financially rewarding career in mental health. Graduates of Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs, including the one at University of Bridgeport, go on to counseling careers as:

• Chemical dependency counselors
• Crisis counselors
• Marriage and family therapists
• Mental health counselors
• Private practice mental health counselors

6. Does the curriculum, faculty, and clinical experience align with your goals?

Students should be sure that their chosen Clinical Mental Health Counseling program’s curriculum, faculty, and clinical experience align with their goals. Coursework should cover the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders, techniques and methods for conducting assessments on clients, and the step-by-step process of developing clients’ individualized treatment plans.

For example, at University of Bridgeport, we use evidence-based practices, comprehensive, collaborative coursework, and relevant hands-on learning experiences to turn students’ dedication to helping diverse patient populations into meaningful work.

And lastly, ensure that your school’s faculty consists of counseling experts with decades of experience in the field, and that students can take advantage of connections with mental health care providers locally as well.

Apply to the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at University of Bridgeport

Choosing the right counseling graduate program is not easy, but these questions should help you make the right decision. At University of Bridgeport, we are committed to helping students in our Counseling MS program get through college and into a great career with our comprehensive support services .

Review our admission requirements and apply today . Or, contact us for more information. Your future starts today!