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Psychology (PhD)

In the Department of Psychology, you will develop an individualized study and research program and study in an invigorating, research-oriented environment — one you should find both challenging and intellectually stimulating. Our overriding goal is to train scholars who, through independent research, are capable of making substantive contributions to the body of knowledge in the field of psychology.

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Psychology Doctor of Philosophy

Our department is noted for a long history of excellence in research, teaching, and service . With approximately 50 faculty, 150 graduate students, and 1800 undergraduate majors, we are one of the largest departments at Ohio State.

We are also one of the top ranked psychology departments in the country providing extensive course offerings and research opportunities in seven program areas. Faculty in the department work in diverse areas of human and animal cognition, emotion, and behavior and engage in many interdisciplinary research activities. By exploring the web links above, you can learn about our educational and research programs, the people responsible for them, and admission requirements.

After a century of excellence in teaching, research and service, The Ohio State University is recognized as a leader among the nation's centers of higher learning . Ohio State sponsors a wide variety of graduate and professional programs.

The study of psychology is part of a long and distinguished tradition at Ohio State.

The first psychology course was offered in 1879, and in 1907 an independent Department of Psychology was formed. The first Master of Arts degree in Psychology was awarded in 1915; the first Ph.D. in 1917. Since that time, about 2,800 master's degrees and 2,000 doctorates have been conferred.

Department graduates hold respected teaching, research and professional positions across the United States and many practice in other countries. In fact, there is at least one Ohio State graduate on the psychology faculty of almost every major university in America.

About 60 professors make up the Psychology Department faculty  at the Columbus campus. Many are recognized both nationally and internationally for their contributions to their fields, and many hold joint appointments, which means they are also members of other department faculties at Ohio State.

Our faculty members, as well as a number of our alumni, are the recipients of the discipline's highest awards for professional and scientific achievement. Many serve as editors of major journals and several are president's of professional societies. They understand that they are role models and that they have a responsibility to help graduate students develop their sense of professional identity and commitment. Click here to access a list of faculty awards and here to access faculty editorships .

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

International graduates of this major are approved by the Department of Homeland Security for three (3) years of work permission in the United States after graduation. Visit the Office of International Affairs website for more information.

If you have a disability and experience difficulty accessing this content, please contact [email protected] .

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Accelerated Graduate Pathway code: NDAG03

College of Arts and Sciences     Psychology     Porter Hall 200 Athens, OH 45701 Phone:  740.597.3206 https://www.ohio.edu/cas/psychology

Jeffrey Vancouver, Department Chair [email protected]

Program Overview

Exceptionally qualified and prepared students who are seeking to expand their psychology knowledge beyond the undergraduate coursework required for completion of the undergraduate program may apply to complete certain graduate coursework with their bachelor’s degree. In the academic year following completion of their bachelor’s degree in Psychology, students should be able to complete their thesis as well as additional graduate coursework to earn their MS in Psychological Science.

Admissions Information

Students will be eligible to apply when they have earned or are in-process of completing 75 credit hours. Students will then be able to apply and be granted conditional admission to the master’s degree program in Psychological Science.

This program is a competitive program for highly qualified individuals. Admissions requirements include a 3.2 cumulative GPA or  a 3.0 cumulative GPA with a 3.5 or higher GPA in the most recent 30 credit hours. Applicants must also have completed PSY 1010   , PSY 2110   , PSY 2120   , and at least 3 of PSY 2210   , PSY 2310   , PSY 2410   , PSY 2510   , and PSY 2710   . Applicants must obtain a letter of recommendation from a faculty member who is willing to chair the student’s thesis committee contingent on the student’s continued good standing in both the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

Opportunities Upon Graduation

Students who complete the program will have the potential to complete the master’s program in one year upon completion of their bachelor’s degree. The M.S. degree prepares students for doctoral training in psychology as well as a variety of research-based professional positions, e.g., behavioral medicine, consumer research, and so on.

Requirements

The following courses may be completed prior to earning the bachelor’s degree:

• PSY 6100 - Data Management (1 credit)
• PSY 6111 - Advanced Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3 credits)
• PSY 6112 - Linear Regression Analysis (3 credits)
• PSY 6120 - Advanced Research Methods in Psychology (3 credits)
• PSY 6210 - Human Psychophysiology (3 credits)
• PSY 6220 - Physiological Psychology (3 credits)
• PSY 6310 - Cognitive Processes (3 credits)
• PSY 6410 - Developmental Psychology (3 credits)
• PSY 6510 - Experimental Social Psychology (3 credits)
• PSY 6610 - Survey of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (3 credits)
• PSY 6950 - Thesis (1 - 8 credits)
• PSY 6980 - Research Seminar (1 credit)
• PSY 7010 - History and Systems of Psychology (3 credits)
• PSY 7210 - Neuropsychology (3 credits)
• PSY 7250 - Health Psychology (3 credits)
• or any advanced seminar (PSY 8901 - PSY 8908)

Up to 13 hours from the above courses can be taken before conferral of the bachelor’s degree.

Up to nine credits of the above courses can be used to meet the requirement in the undergraduate program to complete three additional psychology classes at the 3000-level or higher. Note: PSY 6950 and PSY 6980 cannot be used to meet this undergraduate program requirement.

Psychology Graduate Programs in Ohio

1-14 of 14 results

College of Arts and Sciences - Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH •

Case Western Reserve University •

Graduate School

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Case Western Reserve University ,

Graduate School ,

CLEVELAND, OH ,

College of Arts and Sciences - University of Dayton

Dayton, OH •

University of Dayton •

University of Dayton ,

DAYTON, OH ,

College of Arts and Sciences - University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH •

University of Cincinnati •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Master's Student: I have been accepted to the master of psychology for fall 2024. I have not taken any courses yet, however, the faculty and professor seem kind. ... Read 1 review

University of Cincinnati ,

CINCINNATI, OH ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I have been accepted to the master of psychology for fall 2024. I have not taken any courses yet, however, the faculty and professor seem kind. .

Read 1 reviews.

Lehigh University

Graduate School •

BETHLEHEM, PA

• • Rating 4.42 out of 5   19

University of Findlay College of Health Professions

University of Findlay •

FINDLAY, OH

Miami University - Farmer School of Business

Miami University •

Miami University - College of Arts and Sciences

Oxford, OH •

Miami University ,

OXFORD, OH ,

College of Professional Sciences - Xavier University

Xavier University •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: I really enjoyed my 2 years in graduate school at Xavier University. Having grown up in Cincinnati I want to get away for undergrad but coming home for grad school was great. All of my classes were in the evening so I would work and do my internship during the day. I was in the Sports Administration- Masters of Education program & graduated in 2012. The head of the program was also my advisor which was really nice. My internship was in the Recreation Department at Xavier and have worked in Campus Recreation ever since. Xavier’s campus was nice when I was there but it’s much nicer now. They have one of the newest, state of the art recreation centers in the country now along with more dinning & housing options. If you are looking for a grad program at a major Division 1 university but still has a small campus feel Xavier University is a great choice! ... Read 2 reviews

Xavier University ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I really enjoyed my 2 years in graduate school at Xavier University. Having grown up in Cincinnati I want to get away for undergrad but coming home for grad school was great. All of my classes were... .

Read 2 reviews.

Marietta College

Marietta, OH •

MARIETTA, OH ,

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College of Arts and Sciences - Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green, OH •

Bowling Green State University •

• • Rating 3.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Doctoral Student: Very collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. Like most schools, grad students are often treated like undergrads by administration unless there is unpaid/low paid work to be done. The faculty are amazing, though. ... Read 3 reviews

Bowling Green State University ,

BOWLING GREEN, OH ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Very collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. Like most schools, grad students are often treated like undergrads by administration unless there is unpaid/low paid work to be done. The faculty... .

Read 3 reviews.

Cleveland State University College of Sciences and Health Professions

Cleveland State University •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   3 reviews

Doctoral Student: I have not started the program yet, but all of the professors/doctors in this program, including the director, did a great job keeping us all informed on what was going on especially with the pandemic. Cannot wait to start! ... Read 3 reviews

Cleveland State University ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I have not started the program yet, but all of the professors/doctors in this program, including the director, did a great job keeping us all informed on what was going on especially with the... .

College of Arts and Letters - University of Toledo

Toledo, OH •

University of Toledo •

University of Toledo ,

TOLEDO, OH ,

College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences - Youngstown State University

Youngstown, OH •

Youngstown State University •

Youngstown State University ,

YOUNGSTOWN, OH ,

College of Arts and Sciences - Ashland University

Ashland, OH •

Ashland University •

Ashland University ,

ASHLAND, OH ,

Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences

Akron, OH •

The University of Akron •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: I complete my undergraduate degree at Akron and had an awesome experience so it was only natural to want to continue my education there. My Master's program has been even more incredible. The professors, resources, and training really help to prepare for real life. ... Read 4 reviews

The University of Akron ,

AKRON, OH ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I complete my undergraduate degree at Akron and had an awesome experience so it was only natural to want to continue my education there. My Master's program has been even more incredible. The... .

Read 4 reviews.

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College of Health Professions - The University of Akron

• • Rating 5 out of 5   6 reviews

Current Doctoral student: The University of Akron has terrific programs and staff. You will not have to look far to find resources for yourself regardless of your student status. The nursing school has been great for me and I would recommend the program to anyone who asked me. ... Read 6 reviews

6 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Doctoral student says The University of Akron has terrific programs and staff. You will not have to look far to find resources for yourself regardless of your student status. The nursing school has been great for me and I... .

Read 6 reviews.

Winebrenner Theological Seminary

Findlay, OH •

Current Master's student: My experience has been fantastic. The professors genuinely care and want the best for you, and they are extremely helpful. Along the way, they regularly check if you are meeting the professional development milestones they require for graduation, and if you are not, they will help you along your journey. They won't simply drop you and kick you out. ... Read 1 review

FINDLAY, OH ,

Featured Review: Current Master's student says My experience has been fantastic. The professors genuinely care and want the best for you, and they are extremely helpful. Along the way, they regularly check if you are meeting the professional... .

Valparaiso University

VALPARAISO, IN

• • Rating 4.7 out of 5   10

Tiffin University School of Arts and Sciences

Tiffin University •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   9

College of Arts and Sciences - Lehigh University

Lehigh University •

Showing results 1 through 14 of 14

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• PsyD vs PhD

Ohio Psychology Doctorate Programs

Students can earn their Psy.D. degree in Ohio so that they have the skills and knowledge to work as clinicians with psychological patients. Below are the schools available where you can earn your Psy.D. You also will learn how to become a licensed practitioner in the state of Ohio.

What’s On This Page

Quick facts.

• Ohio PsyD Programs
• Other Ohio Doctorate Programs
• Ohio Psychologist Requirements
• Ohio Doctorate Salary Outlook
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the metropolitan area of Northeastern Ohio is one of the most highly employed regions in the country for clinical psychologists.
• Annual tuition for in-state students at Bowling Green State University is $10,796.
• Cleveland State touts several national publications originating from their Department of Psychology.
• Kent State University sports one of the most active and largest research labs in the entire state of Ohio.
• Kent State University costs just over $10,000 in annual tuition for in-state students.

List of PsyD Programs In Ohio

Below are the programs in Ohio where you can earn your Psy.D. This degree is a good option for students who want to work in a clinical environment during their careers.

SEE ALSO:   5+ Online PsyD Degree Programs

Wright State University

Wright State University offers a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology that was among the first in the country that granted the degree. The curriculum of this four-year degree is organized around the patient relationship; assessment; intervention; basic science research and evaluation; consultation and education; management and supervision, and diversity. Students are given broad exposure to theoretical models, clinical skills and professional roles that will prepare them to be skilled clinicians. Students can choose emphasis areas in child health rehabilitation and primary care, or forensic psychology. The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

• Institution type: Public
• Main campus: Dayton
• Annual tuition: $14,000 in-state, $23,000 out-of-state
• Degrees offered: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology
• Accreditation: APA
• Visit School: Click here

Xavier University

Xavier University offers a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology that provides doctoral students with a range of skills and knowledge to provide modern psychological services in the changing professional climate of today. It is a full-time, five-year program that features four didactic years and one internship year. This program is intended to prepare students for a general clinical psychology practice. It also provides specialized training in children and adolescents; individuals with severe psychopathology; and healthcare psychology in medical settings.

• Institution type: Private
• Main campus: Cincinnati
• Annual tuition: $23,240

Other Psychology Doctorates in Ohio

If you want to earn your Ph.D. in psychology with a focus on academic research, you have some good choices in Ohio, which we highlight below:

Ohio State University

Ohio State University offers an APA-accredited Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that is intended to prepare research-focused, clinical scientist psychologists to be leading investigators of clinical phenomena in the future. Students in this five-year program will acquire and demonstrate deep knowledge of psychological theories and research in psychopathology, psychological assessment, and psychological interventions. Students also will acquire and demonstrate skills that are needed to perform professionally and ethically in clinical psychology.

• Main campus: Columbus
• Annual tuition: $12,424 in-state, $37,140 out-of-state
• Degrees offered: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Kent State University

Kent State University offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that has been offered at the university since 1968. The program is focused on a clinical-scientist model and is intended to teach students for careers in teaching, research, and clinical practice. Every doctoral student is involved in collaborative research projects with professors, and students may be authors of influential journal articles and can work in the department’s Applied Psychology Center. The program is APA-accredited and involves 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in a local field placement site and 2,000 hours of supervised internship experience.

• Main campus: Kent
• Annual tuition: $17,400 in-state, $29,000 out-of-state

Miami University

Miami University offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that has been accredited by the APA since 1972. The program adheres to the scientist-practitioner model of psychological training, with the major focus to produce doctoral students who can work as investigators and practitioners and be consistent with the highest standards of the field. The program intends to advance the science of psychology through original research; by promoting mental health and well being by applying theories and knowledge of scientific assessment, and developing psychology profession leaders with strong knowledge in human behavior.

• Main campus: Oxford
• Annual tuition: $12,200 in-state, $14,900 out-of-state

The University of Toledo

The University of Toledo offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that has been APA-accredited since 1979. The program stresses the three traditional functions of clinical research, diagnostic assessment, and psychotherapy, so they prepare clinical psychologists who are able to serve in many professional contexts. The program also offers a flexible and broad view of the psychology discipline that allows graduates to work in new psychological fields of interests and specializations. The program strives for a balance between practice and research, students can engage in both clinical-relevant research and research-focused practice.

• Main campus: Toledo
• Annual tuition: $15,809 in-state, $26,411 out-of-state

How To Become A Practicing Psychologist In Ohio

Becoming a licensed and certified practicing psychologist in the state of Ohio requires an extended effort to accomplish several different requirements. You will have to obviously accomplish extensive schooling en route to your mandated degree while also keeping your eye on several other aspects that are key to getting approval via the Ohio Board of Psychology. Let’s briefly discuss the different steps that are required in order to become licensed and certified for practice in the state of Ohio.

In order to satisfy Ohio’s extensive requirements, you will first start by pursuing nearly a decade of education en route to your Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Psychology. Both degrees will require roughly four years of full-time attendance totaling close to 120 credits. While you are pursuing your education it is advised that you start paying attention to your pre-doctoral level internship requirements. These requirements mandate between 1,500 and 2,000 hours of quality internship work which will last at least nine to eleven months.

After your education is in hand, you must move toward something known as supervised professional experience (SPE). The state of Ohio requires two years, or 3,600 total hours, of experience under supervision at an approved facility that meets APA/CPA standards . After this portion of your education pursuit, you can attempt to gain your license.

• Acquiring your license will require that you take a complete criminal background check performed by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification. Additionally, your background will be investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. You will also be required to take a fingerprint clearance test.
• Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
• A Passing score on the Praxis-II School Psychologist Exam
• Oral Examination Performed By The School Psychology Examination Committee
• After you have completed your coursework, internships, background tests and examinations you can submit your application to the Board. Your application can be made online and it will require a $300 payment.  You will also have to provide all of the important documentation that we have highlighted above.

Ohio Clinical Psychologist Salary and Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, practicing clinical psychologists in the state of Ohio will earn an average annual salary of #72,000.

SEE ALSO: Ohio Clinical Psychologist Salary

Additionally, the BLS predicts that job growth for the industry in the state of Ohio is sitting at 14.2% over the next ten years, making it a stable career path to begin pursuing. The top 10% of clinical psychologists in the state are earning more than $102,000 annually.

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School Psychology

Ohio State's School Psychology program trains scientist-practitioner school psychologists to deliver services across many different settings with emphasis for children in urban settings. The foundation for the PhD School Psychology program at The Ohio State University is based on sociocultural theories of psychological and educational practices with youth. Students are trained as scientist-practitioners who function as data-based decision makers and collaborative problem solvers. The program has a commitment to diversity and social justice at the research, training and service levels. The specific framework used as the overarching philosophy to the program is the ecological model that focuses on the multiple systems in which children exist. This perspective recognizes the complex interaction of person variables within and across multiple systems. While students are trained in school psychology practice through a specific framework, they are also exposed to numerous psychological theories (i.e., behavioral, cognitive, socio-cultural, humanistic, social learning) that offer a balance between a shared mission and a more comprehensive approach to training.

Degrees and Programs

Why choose Ohio State for School Psychology

You are trained to meet the needs of youth in urban settings, with a focus on socially just practice, by understanding issues of poverty, in particular, and how they can influence the lives of children in any setting.  

With issues of diversity infused throughout school psychology courses and a culturally diverse faculty and student body, the program is committed to diversity in both curriculum and community. 

Ohio State's College of Education and Human Ecology is No. 1 in Ohio and No. 6 among 14 Big 10 universities for graduate education. 

Provides a voice in matters affecting students, fosters connections across cohorts, engages in social justice work in the community, and actively participates with local and national professional organizations.   

Take all of your classes with a close-knit cohort, who will be a great source of support throughout your graduate school career.  

Work with real students, staff and families at local schools every single semester, even in your first year. 

• Columbus City Schools
• Columbus Spanish Immersion School
• I am Boundless, Inc.
• Private practice settings

Work with real students, staff, and families at local schools every single semester, even in your first year.

Program philosophy

• School psychologists are sensitive to the needs of a culturally diverse community. They value the importance of children to the future of society and advocate on the behalf of children. 
• As an integral part of human services available to children, adolescents, adults and families, school psychologists function across multiple settings with a focus on educational institutions. 
• They address diverse referral issues with varied services such as consultation, social and emotional interventions, academic and behavioral interventions, psycho-educational assessment, in-service education, administrative services, research and evaluation and counseling. 
• The primary distinction between school psychology and other areas of psychology is the additional focus on education. Our training in both education and psychology uniquely positions ours students to be able to coordinate educational, psychological and behavioral health services to all learners across their lifespans. 

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The 100% online PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy (60 credits) is specially designed for people looking to expand their hearts and minds while developing skills to meet the challenges of 21st Century life. Research and study in counseling theories and practice are integrated with theological inquiry in this vibrant doctoral program.  

You may also be interested in: Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy .

Program Details

• Note: Internship placements will be in-person at a location near you.
• Additional credits required until the completion of dissertation; additional credits may also be required if interested in pursuing state license)
• Enrolling New Students: August
• $28,800 total in tuition & fees for the full 60-credit program (2023-2024)
• Financial Aid: Explore our federal financial aid options that may be available to you.

100% Online. Flexible. Affordable.

• Integration of Psychology & Christianity : Students assess individuals, couples, families, and congregations from an integrated point of view, incorporating theological issues with Marriage and Family systems theory and pertinent psychological perspectives in pastoral or clinical settings.
• Broad Audience : Students demonstrate advanced counseling skills appropriate to meet the needs of individuals, couples, families, and congregations seeking mental health services and programs.
• Self-Reflection : Students practice in-depth self-reflection to enhance their ongoing personal and professional development.
• Significant Research Project: Students create and present a significant research project resulting in a dissertation that contributes to the field of marriage and family therapy.
• Enrichment Programs : Students create and deliver integrated psychological and spiritual enrichment programs.  Examples of previous enrichment programs created by Eastern doctoral students include workshops for individuals, couples, and families, as well as seminars offered on special topics in a clinical or church setting.

Brooke Wheeler, PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy ’25

Our Mission

The PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy trains students in professional mental health and pastoral counseling fields to be skilled scholar/practitioners in marriage and family therapy who apply their minds and hearts to promoting processes of change and growth in individuals, couples, families, and communities. This scholar/practitioner research program prepares students for leadership roles in academia, research, behavioral healthcare, and pastoral care.

State Authorizations

Please check the  State Authorizations page  to determine if Eastern University’s program fulfills your state credentialing requirements. Students who seek similar credentialing in states other than Pennsylvania are advised to contact the appropriate credentialing agency within their home state to seek information and additional guidance about credentialing in your state of residence. Additional state or local requirements may exist for field placements or practica in this state. Out-of-state student placements/practica cannot be guaranteed by the program or the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. Students are responsible for following all state and local requirements and regulations for their field placement/practica coursework.

Learn More: PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy

• Admissions Requirements
• Course Descriptions
• Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy
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Which psychology field is right for me?

May 15, 2024

Reading time: 4 minutes

Are you interested in using theory, analysis and evidence-based approaches to understand how people think, learn, develop and behave and to help them thrive? If you want to explore new ways to make a difference, the options for discovering your professional path in psychology may seem endless – and you may have found that you need advanced knowledge and skills to take the next step.

What skills can I develop with a psychology degree?

The specific skills that can be useful in the field of psychology will vary depending on the area of study you pursue and your degree level. Some of the broad skills that are important to develop include:

• Communication: Strong communication skills are an asset for helping individuals, groups or organizations, conveying research findings or working with colleagues.
• Ethical awareness: You may be required to handle sensitive information, which means respecting confidentiality.
• Analysis and critical thinking: When you conduct research or work with your stakeholders, you should be able to interpret data and understand how to apply what you know to different situations.
• Patience: Making progress toward specific goals takes time, whether it’s discussing solutions with a patient or conducting research on a study.
• Empathy and active listening: Understanding and recognizing the feelings of others starts with giving your full attention and knowing how to recognize verbal and nonverbal cues.
• Inclusivity: Recognizing the diverse perspectives of people and their communities and examining your own biases can help you adapt your approach to different needs.

Which area of psychology is right for me?

As you explore areas of psychology, these questions may help you figure out your interests:

• Who do you want to help?
• Are you more interested in clinical or applied areas of psychology?
• What issues do you want to focus on?

Your answers to these questions can help you find paths to explore, including degree options that could help you pursue your professional goals. You will need to conduct your own research to understand what opportunities may be available to you. Note that some professional paths may require you to have previous experience, licensure,* certifications or other designations along with a degree.

While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome – such as a job title, promotion, salary increase or other career outcome – we encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

*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.

What can you do with a psychology degree?

Based on where your interests lie, explore some fields of psychology and degree options offered by Capella.

Clinical psychology:  Study human behavior and help people build wellness and emotional resilience.

• BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling & Therapy
• MS in Clinical Psychology
• PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Behavioral health:  Treat populations in distress to improve emotional, social and mental health.

• BS in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis
• MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis
• PhD in Behavior Analysis

Developmental psychology:  Promote positive development, social growth and emotional changes throughout all stages of life.

• MS in Psychology, Child & Adolescent Development
• PhD in Psychology, Developmental Psychology

Educational psychology: Study how people learn and retain knowledge.

• MS in Psychology, Educational Psychology
• PhD in Psychology, Educational Psychology

School psychology:  Apply principles of educational and developmental psychology to meet behavior and educational needs in a learning environment.

• MS in School Psychology
• EdS in School Psychology
• PsyD in School Psychology

Industrial/organizational psychology:  Support leaders and organizations through an understanding of human behavior to help create efficiencies and advance team performance.

• MS in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology  

Learn more about Capella’s  bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral psychology programs and graduate certificates.

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Psychology Degree Concentrations: 5 Examples to Consider

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By Matt Rowley Posted on May 9, 2024

The popularity of psychology degrees has remained steady in recent years. For aspiring psychologists, bachelor’s degrees are important steps in their academic journey, as they typically continue studying in graduate programs. For others, a bachelor’s degree in psychology can be worth it on its own and help graduates advance in other related careers.

In many cases, psychology degree programs include concentrations that help students focus their studies toward specific career fields, whether they’re on the path to becoming a psychologist or otherwise.

In this article, we outline five types of psychology degree concentrations, using examples from our bachelor’s degree programs here at Columbia Southern University.

1. Criminal Justice

Psychology is becoming increasingly essential in the criminal justice field . A criminal justice degree concentration involves a particular focus on criminology and the theories that inform the U.S. criminal justice system. Students grapple with the theoretical reasons for crime, its psychological impact on victims, and the psychology and motivations of criminal justice professionals.

This popular concentration teaches students to develop a functional understanding of the justice system and learn which psychological, emotional and societal factors influence people to commit crimes.

Classes in a criminal justice concentration may include:

• Criminology
• Mental Illness and Crime
• Victimology

Related: Criminal Justice Degree Programs: What to Expect

2. Diversity and Inclusion

As the phrase “diversity, equity and inclusion” continues to grow in usage and become a part of our common language, it’s no surprise that businesses are increasingly hiring DEI experts and universities are launching DEI degree programs .

Psychology degree programs with a concentration in diversity, equity and inclusion are focused on the experiences and difficulties faced by people who are marginalized based on their gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or socioeconomic background. These programs aim to provide insight into how to address the issues of bias, marginalization and discrimination in professional, educational and social settings.

A degree concentration focused on diversity and inclusion may include classes such as:

• Diversity and Cultural Inclusion
• Psychology of Gender
• Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination

3. Forensics

Forensic psychologists work in the criminal justice field, with a particular focus on assessments and research into the mental state of criminals, victims, witnesses and others involved in the criminal justice system. Studying forensic psychology gives students the skills necessary to assess an individual’s mental state and motivations based on interviews, crime scene investigations and other factors.

Lawyers, law enforcement professionals, courts and other entities in the criminal justice system rely on forensic psychology to assess the state, credibility and mental fitness of criminals, victims or others.

Forensic psychology degree programs include classes such as:

• Introduction to Forensic Investigation
• Forensic Psychology
• Pathology of Death

Related: Forensic Science Myths and the “CSI Effect”

4. Industrial/Organizational

Also called I/O psychology , this degree concentration involves applying psychological principles and science to the structure, productivity and outcomes of a workplace or organization. Focusing on the interactions between people and organizational patterns and decisions, I/O psychologists work to uncover the ways personal, emotional and social behavior affects the success or failure of an organization.

I/O psychologists can be focused externally as well, helping companies understand consumer behavior, public relations and ethics. More than some other concentrations, I/O psychology also focuses a great deal on group dynamics and interactions, exploring organizations as large groups, a set of subgroups, and the relations between them. The day-to-day work of I/O psychologists is often strongly intertwined with occupational safety and health , as well as human resources .

Classes in an industrial/organizational psychology concentration may include:

• Human Relations and Development
• Negotiation/Conflict Resolution
• Team Building and Leadership

5. Mental Health

Possibly the best-known psychological discipline, a mental health concentration provides students a foundation in the identification, assessment and treatment of mental health issues. Students explore the history and theoretical basis of psychology as it relates to mental health, learn how to use statistics and academic research, and study real-world situations in which examples of common mental health issues unfold.

Because one in five adults struggle with mental health issues , this discipline touches everyone’s life in some way. Studying the many situations and dynamics that create these mental health issues is an essential part of psychology.

Psychology degree programs focused on mental health include classes such as:

• Close Relationships
• Cognitive Psychology
• Health Psychology

Getting Started at CSU

Here at Columbia Southern University, our psychology degree concentrations enable our students to customize their studies with a specific focus on their career path. The exposure to focused research, interaction with subject matter experts, and intimate knowledge of the field and the psychological principles at play provide a foundation for success.

For more information about all our online degree programs and concentrations, visit our website .

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

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PsyD in School Psychology Program Granted Full Accreditation by the APA

Reaching the highest accreditation level is a nationally recognized achievement, showing that the program meets strict standards and ensures graduates are well-prepared to provide scientifically-based psychological services.

“Our school psychology community is very excited to have achieved this impressive milestone, and we are proud of our faculty and our students,” said Kate Tresco, PhD , director, PsyD program in school psychology. “The PCOM community and administration has been very committed and supportive of school psychology and the behavioral science programs , which fits seamlessly into the broader goals of the institution.”

Currently, the program has 32 students across all cohorts, with nine total graduates since the first graduating class in the summer of 2021. Notably, it's among only ten PsyD in school psychology programs listed on the APA's accredited doctoral programs roster.

“Our highly credentialed faculty have extensive experience in school psychology and are committed to supporting student growth and development across both foundational and applied skills,” said Tresco.

“Achieving this national recognition is a testament to the highest level of educational standards and commitment of PCOM to serve the mental health needs of children and their families in the schools and the community.”

Learn more about the Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology program at PCOM.

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About Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

For the past 125 years, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses ( PCOM , PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia ) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.

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