dual masters and phd in psychology

2024 Dual Masters and PhD Programs in Psychology Online

To advance in your career toward licensure and professional practice as a psychologist or counselor, you might consider dual masters and PhD programs in psychology online.

These programs let you work through masters and doctoral level courses in a well-planned, seamless program that culminates in a doctorate degree in psychology.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Sophisticated, online learning platforms allow universities to deliver academically excellent instruction and mentorship to students. An online psychology graduate program may be an especially good fit for critical thinkers and self-motivated learners.

Dual Masters and PhD Programs in Psychology

Dual masters and doctorate programs are commonly referred to as combination programs because they allow students to merge the two degrees into one continuous plan of study.

Formal curriculum plans for combination programs typically facilitate the double counting of credit hours from specific courses so that those credits apply toward both degrees. In this way, students are not repeating the same material for two different degrees.

The majority of dual degree programs take students through master’s and doctoral level courses, culminating in PsyD degrees. A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology, and this degree is typically for those who want to pursue clinical work, providing psychological services for clients and patients.

Other dual degree programs lead toward PhD degrees, or Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Dual masters and PhD programs in clinical psychology typically focus on preparing students to become scientist-practitioners in the field of psychology, working primarily in research and teaching.

One distinguishing feature of a dual degree program is that students don’t graduate and stop at the end of their master’s degree program. Instead, they earn a master’s degree along the way to their doctoral degree.

Essentially, the master’s degree is incorporated in the pathway to the doctorate. There are slight differences, though, between Master of Arts and Master of Science degree programs within the structure of combination degrees.

The MA in Psychology includes more courses in the liberal arts. Students are trained to perform desk-based research, evaluate programs, and advise organizations regarding mental health issues and policies.

By contrast, MS degree programs typically focus more on research and the sciences, preparing students to work directly in the treatment of mentally ill clients or patients. If your ultimate goal is to complete a PhD or PsyD in Psychology for licensure and career advancement, it may be beneficial and strategic to pursue a dual degree.

While policies for these programs differ among universities, the overall concept appears to offer a streamlined pathway to the terminal degree and qualification for licensed, professional practice.

Psychology Careers & Salaries

As a psychologist or counselor with a doctorate, you may work in private practices, mental health service organizations, businesses, industries, higher education institutions, and school systems.

Some psychologists work directly with clients to provide treatment for mental illnesses. Still others serve as school psychologists or school and career counselors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , professionals with master’s and doctoral degrees in psychology may qualify for the following careers.

Once you’ve completed your master’s and PhD or PsyD degree in psychology, you may conduct independent research and serve as a psychology professor in universities. You may also qualify for managerial or supervisory positions.

For example, a community services manager coordinates and oversees the delivery of psychological services that support public well-being. These services may be offered through a nonprofit organization or government agency.

Psychology Dual Master’s/PhD Curriculum

In a dual degree program, courses may count toward both masters and doctoral degrees, with completion of the doctorate as the target culmination of graduate work.

Independent research, practicum experience, thesis, and dissertation completion may intersperse with academic coursework. Here is a list of sample courses you may find in a masters/PhD degree program:

• Research Design and Statistical Analysis : You’ll learn to apply multivariate research designs in diverse, applied research settings, including mixed models, regression, and covariance analysis.
• Developmental Psychology : You’ll explore established theories in social, emotional, and cognitive psychology, as applied to developmental stages, including infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
• Methods and Analysis in Survey Research : This course is an overview of survey methods and analysis, including questionnaires, establishing validity and reliability, and the coding and analysis of data.
• Cognitive Psychology : You’ll investigate the mental processes involved in decision making, problem solving, memory, language acquisition and comprehension, and pattern recognition.
• Pedagogy of Psychology : You’ll learn effective teaching strategies and methods for engaging with students in psychology classes.
• Psychology in the Workplace : You’ll explore established research and theories in applied psychology in industrial and business organizations.
• Research in Psychology : You’ll design and implement original research in psychology under the supervision of faculty advisors.
• Substance Abuse Treatment and Physiology : This course examines the physical, mental, and emotional effects of substance abuse on individuals, families, and society.
• Family Therapy Approaches : You’ll investigate therapeutic approaches and develop the skills to provide interventions, such as cognitive and behavioral therapy, with children and families.
• Forensic Psychology and the Law : This course examines the role of forensic psychology and the application of psychological principles in the criminal justice system.

This list represents only a small sample of the courses that may be included in a master’s/Ph.D. dual degree in psychology program.

How to Become a Psychologist

Licensed psychologists typically hold doctoral degrees. Some positions require an additional post-graduate fellowship as well as supervised practice.

Including undergraduate work, the requirements for a career as a psychologist may represent 8 to 12 years of college education. After completing your educational requirements, you may complete 1 to 2 years of supervised work experience.

Of course, these timelines are generalities, and students move through their degree programs at individual rates. Earning a dual masters and PhD program may also allow you to finish more quickly.

The following are common steps toward becoming a psychologist:

• Doctoral degree . A masters degree is often a prerequisite for a doctoral program, but you may enroll in a dual masters/doctoral program to get ahead.
• Supervised work hours . The number of required supervised work hours varies by state.
• Apply for licensure . Apply for licensure with the state licensing board in the state you want to work.
• EPPP exam . Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Although the majority of psychologist careers require doctoral degrees, some require only a master’s degree. For example, you may qualify for the role of industrial organizational psychologist or school psychologist with a masters degree along with one year of supervised work.

Admissions Requirements

After you’ve researched numerous masters and PhD combined programs in psychology and selected the one you like the most, the next step is to apply to the program.

Institutions vary in their requirements, but here are a few typical criteria for admission:

• Bachelors degree . It’s beneficial to have a bachelors degree with significant coursework in psychology, equivalent to a major or minor.
• GRE score . Some institutions look for a minimum score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), but a number of schools no longer require this.
• Work experience . Work experience or clinical public service

You may also have you a competitive edge if you’ve completed an undergraduate honors thesis in psychology or have worked as a research lab assistant.

Accreditation

For licensure and future employment, you may want to look for a MA / PhD in Psychology online program from an institution that holds regional accreditation from one of these accrediting organizations :

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

Degrees from regionally accredited schools are often more respected and recognized by employers as well as other institutions. In order to receive regional accreditation, a school must meet a high standard of academic excellence.

APA Accredited Psychology Programs

Accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) is a seal of approval for degree programs in psychology. APA accreditation is a sign of a program’s academic excellence and positive contributions to the psychology profession.

Programs that are fully accredited have met all the standards set forth by the APA. These include quality standards not only for academic excellence but also for outcome data for interns and residents in the program as well as for program alumni.

Licensure and Certifications

After completing your doctoral degree, if you plan to become a licensed psychologist, the next step is to achieve licensure in the state where you plan to practice.

According to the APA, the basic steps toward licensure are as follows:

• Doctorate . An APA accredited degree in psychology from a regionally accredited university is often required.
• Supervised practicum hours . Requirements for supervised practicum hours vary by individual states.
• EPPP exam . Once you apply for licensure with your state board, you can take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

In some cases, passing a jurisprudence exam is also required. Once you complete all of your state licensing board’s requirements, you may become a licensed psychologist.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Visiting the US Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid website can be a helpful first step when planning for your degree. Here, you can fill out and submit your FAFSA form to begin the process of accessing financial assistance for graduate school.

Student aid is available to qualifying students in several forms, including loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. You can investigate both merit-based and need-based scholarships from universities, alumni organizations, and philanthropic sources.

If you’re a military veteran, active military personnel, or a member of a military family, you may qualify for special financial assistance. You can learn more about military assistance programs on the federal student aid website.

Can I Get My Masters and PhD at the Same Time?

Yes, in a dual degree program, you can work through your master’s degree requirements on your way to completing your doctorate, all in one seamless program of study. The master’s degree is earned along the way, so there’s no delineated stopping point.

Many dual degree programs facilitate the double counting of course credit hours so that you don’t need to repeat the same material twice for two degrees.

With combined masters PhD programs psychology professionals may tailor their coursework, practicums, and research to focus on the areas of the psychology field where they intend to pursue professional practice.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD in Psychology?

To enter a dual masters and PhD or PsyD degree program, you don’t need to hold a previously completed masters degree. You may enter with a bachelors degree and earn the masters along the way toward completing a doctorate in psychology.

The term that is sometimes applied to this type of master’s degree is “en passant,” meaning that you earn your master’s in passing on the way to completing your doctoral degree.

Students who already hold a masters degree may enter a dual degree program, and their credits may be applied toward completion of the terminal degree. This may help reduce the time it takes to progress through the program and complete the PhD.

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

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program in psychology focuses on preparing students to generate new knowledge through research.

Additionally, PhD candidates focus on preparation to teach psychology in colleges. Professionals who hold the PhD in psychology may also work in health services organizations, as school and career counselors, and as consultants in business and industry, making a psychology degree worth it for many students.

Alternatively, combined masters and PsyD programs online culminate in the Doctor of Psychology degree. PsyD programs focus on training candidates to apply scientific principles of psychology in the direct treatment of clients and patients.

Both types of psychology doctoral programs may prepare students for state licensure exams, and graduates from both PhD and PsyD programs may work as licensed, clinical psychologists.

Universities Offering Dual Masters and PhD in Psychology Degree Programs

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

DePaul University’s dual Masters and PhD in Psychology program allows students to gain the clinical knowledge and methodology practice to better understand diverse issues within society. With two focus areas to choose from, students can select the community pathway or the child route to help them achieve their goals.

DePaul University  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Georgetown University’s dual degree in psychology allows learners to gain a masters degree and a PhD over 5 years through interdisciplinary studies.

Offering a choice of two concentrations, learners can specialize in human development and public policy or lifespan cognitive neuroscience. Research in social theories, methods, and action are part of the cornerstones of this program.

Georgetown also offers a variety of combined masters degree programs online or in a traditional classroom setting.

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

John F. Kennedy University offers a groundbreaking experience in education by helping students acquire an MA in Sport Psychology and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology at the same time. This degree program prepares learners to work as clinical practitioners or to work with athletes on and off the field.

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

Loyola University of Maryland allows students to combine a Masters and Doctorate in Psychology into one program that can be completed in 5 years, including a dissertation. LU’s dual program focuses on communication, diversity, ethics, clinical research, and many other standards to ensure students can show competency in this field.

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

Obtaining a dual MA and Doctorate in Psychology from Portland State University gives students the necessary tools to confront the complex issues surrounding social difficulties in communities today.

This program focuses on research, methodology, and innovative solutions that can bring positive change in society. PSU’s program has five specializations and a small teacher to student ratio.

Portland State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The graduate program in psychology at Saint Louis University provides learners with the ability to gain their PhD while getting a masters degree. Students enrolled in this program will complete 30 credit hours in clinical psychology, 42 credit hours towards their doctoral degree, and a dissertation. There are several specializations to choose from at SLU.

Saint Louis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Learners looking to participate in the PhD and MPH dual program at the University of Alabama must apply to each program separately.

Once accepted, students will become immersed in scientific practice and coursework that focuses on the skills needed to excel in clinical psychology. Areas of concentration include child psychology, ethics and law, and clinical health.

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

The University of Southern California offers a program that allows students to gain a Masters in Public Health and a Doctorate in Philosophy simultaneously.

This dual degree program blends clinical research and hands-on learning with society’s health strains. USC requires program students to complete the dissertation process and choose a specialization out of the three concentrations offered.

USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The MA with Direct Admission to the PsyD in Counseling Psychology program from the University of St. Thomas gives learners the opportunity to study the basis of psychological theories and counseling methods. At UST, students can take classes around their busy life by choosing courses on weekends, on nights, or during the day.

The  University of St. Thomas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Widener University’s PsyD and MCJ dual program allows students to engage in practical learning and internships while obtaining a doctorate in psychology. Coursework, internships, and a research dissertation drives the learning process at WU. This dual program can qualify graduates to work and advocate in the criminal justice system.

Widener University  is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Getting Your Combined Masters and PhD in Psychology Online

To reach your full potential in the field of psychology, you may consider enrolling in a combined masters and PhD program online. Thanks to advanced, virtual learning platforms, you can access the same academic experience online that on-campus students receive in classrooms.

With online learning, you may enroll full-time or part-time to meet your individual needs, whether you are in a masters in forensic psychology online program, one in child psychology, or in a dual masters / doctorate degree program. Many students are able to maintain work and family responsibilities while completing graduate courses online.

Plus some students even find it beneficial to enroll in accelerated online psychology degree programs that a growing number of universities offer.

If you’re interested in this academic path, you may start investigating online, APA accredited dual degree programs from regionally accredited universities. This could be a strategic step toward your professional future in this rewarding field.

MPP/PhD in Psychology

Master in public policy/phd in psychology.

The McCourt School and the Department of Psychology offer a dual MPP/PhD in Psychology through the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. This 48-credit program provides an interdisciplinary education in the sciences that concern themselves with the processes and contexts of development across the lifespan. It is explicitly designed to offer students rigorous training in the range of theories and methods that characterize the developmental sciences and enable them to place the study of development into the broader contexts – biological, familial, social, cultural, economic, historical, political – from which the field draws its societal applications. The program will prepare students for an array of post-degree positions in institutions of higher education, research institutes, government agencies and other policy settings, medical settings, and nonprofit organizations. Conducting high-quality empirical research that makes a contribution to both scientific understanding and human welfare is an overarching theme of this dual degree program.

Students interested in applying to the MPP/PhD in Psychology Program should complete and submit both the MPP and Psychology applications to the respective programs. For more information on the PhD in Psychology, please contact the  Department of Psychology .

Although there is some flexibility in order to accommodate students’ specific professional and academic goals, students enrolled in the dual MPP/PhD in Psychology program typically pursue the following course of study:

Typical Course of Study

Fall Semester (12 credits)

• PPOL 5004, Intermediate Microeconomics
• PPOL 5000, Statistical Methods for Policy Analysis
• PPOL 5006/5007, The Politics of Policy-Making/Comparative Politics of Policy-Making
• PSYC 5001, Lifespan Development

Spring Semester (12 credits)

• PPOL 5001, Regression Methods for Policy Analysis
• PPOL 5005, Microeconomics II
• PPOL 5008/5009, Public Management/Comparative Public Management
• PSYC 4810, Child & Fam Policy (3 credits) (or similar)
• PPOL 5002, Advanced Regression and Program Evaluation Methods
• PPOL 5011/5013, Policy Analysis Capstone I/Thesis Workshop I
• PSYC 5002, Human Development in Context (3 credits)
• PPOL 5012/5014, Policy Analysis Capstone II/Thesis Workshop II
• PPOL 5010, Ethics, Values and Public Policy
• Electives (6 credits)

Fall Semester (0 credits)

• Thesis Research

Spring Semester (0 credits)

4 Best Dual Masters and Ph.D. Programs in Psychology Online

Reviewed by Linda Weems I got started researching colleges and universities about 10 years ago while exploring a second career. While my second career ended up being exactly what I’m doing now, and I didn’t end up going to college, I try to put myself in your shoes every step of the way as I build out College Cliffs as a user-friendly resource for prospective students.

Updated: March 8, 2024 , Reading time: 19 minutes

Share this on:

Find your perfect college degree

In this article, we will be covering...

Understanding why individuals behave the way they do has been an important factor in finding ways to help improve the decision-making process, manage stress, and predict future behavior. This is where the field of psychology comes in. This dynamic field offers meaningful and rewarding careers, encompassing counseling, social work, marketing, and so much more.

It is important that prospective students wanting to pursue his field earn a degree that aligns with their personal and professional goals. The median pay for psychologists amounts to $81,040 per year . Typically, one will need a master’s degree for some positions, but a doctoral degree is an optimum requirement for the most lucrative careers.

Undergraduates of psychology and other related fields who wish to become psychologists may want to consider advancing their higher education credentials by earning a master’s degree and pursuing a doctoral degree right after. However, this will mean longer years spent in graduate schools, which may put their career in the backseat.

Fortunately, there is a convenient way to pursue a career in psychology in the form of dual degree programs. Qualifying students who wish to take this route will be able to earn both a master’s and doctoral degree in less time compared to completing each graduate degree separately. This also means saving money as you can maximize the coursework for both programs.

Quick audio summary:

The lowdown.

In a nutshell, dual degree programs in psychology are the merging of two degrees – the master’s and doctoral programs-  into one continuous education plan. This allows students to earn both advanced graduate programs much more quickly than their counterparts. Credits earned by students may be applied to both degree programs. Often, admission into dual degree programs is streamlined into one efficient application process.

This means students won’t have to go through the complexity of applying to each program separately. When earned, the dual degrees will help them widen their career opportunities, allowing them to receive better compensation and more chances of promotion. Their in-depth knowledge in the area of psychology will give them the expertise to pursue exciting positions in a variety of work settings.

While there are universities that offer dual programs in psychology online, the overwhelming majority of such programs are only available in traditional learning formats. Some are also possible to earn in hybrid formats, meaning students may complete some of the degree requirements online, but they may be required to attend on-campus classes for others.

Methodology

A dual degree program in Psychology is a unique learning opportunity for students, being the academic equivalent of hitting two birds with one stone. These programs are relatively rarer than standalone Master’s and Doctorate programs, but it is just as crucial to see whether their curriculum design/program of study, learning outcomes, and costs are what you deem fit.

The degrees featured here were selected on the following criteria:

• Offered by regionally-accredited institutions, whether public or private,
• Features curricula that provide training to as wide a set of learning areas as possible, which lets students confidently launch their careers in a wide range of areas/settings,
• As much as possible, delivered in an online or Hybrid/Blended learning format that allows students to access their coursework at their most convenient time,
• Delivered by faculty that is highly reputed for their professional competence and experience,
• Offers financial aid opportunities, tuition discounts, student support services, and favorable credit transfer policies.

Learn more about our ranking process! Explore our Methodology page.

Top 4 Online Dual Masters and Ph.D. Programs in Psychology

Walden university.

PhD in Psychology

Walden University, a private university in Minnesota, offers a unique PhD in Psychology , which prepares graduates with a multifaceted set of skills that they can take to diverse work environments and career paths. While the program is offered as a pure doctoral and not a dual degree program, students enrolled in the program have the chance to be awarded an MPhil or Master of Philosophy degree upon completing a set of program requirements. 

• The program is offered as a non-clinical/non-licensure track degree program.
• Up to 55 credits are transferrable.
• The program curriculum offers a choice of six specialization areas: Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, Social Psychology, Research in Psychology, and Teaching in Psychology, as well as a Self-Designed specialization area that lets students tailor their coursework to their personal and professional goals.
• Students can also opt for Walden’s Doctoral Fast Track Option , where they can increase their course load for each term and begin their dissertation earlier in order to earn their degree faster.
• Students have up to 8 years to complete the program, after which they can apply for an extension if necessary.
• Walden University implements what it calls its Doctoral Degree Coach™, part of a suite of dissertation support services that it uses to help students progress through the doctoral program.

What Makes This Program Unique:

Perhaps one of the highlights of this program, aside from the end goal of earning a Ph.D., is the embedded Master of Philosophy degree that students can become eligible for an award. It is considered an advanced research master’s degree that signifies progress in the student’s academic journey toward the Ph.D. Walden University is one of only a handful of institutions that confer this degree.

Did You Know?

Aside from the Ph.D. in Psychology, Walden University also offers an online PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision , as well as an MS Dual Degree Program – Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling also offered online.  

Widener University

PsyD-MCJ Dual Degree

Widener University, a private, non-profit university based in Pennsylvania, offers a PsyD/MCJ Dual Degree , which is a unique program that explores the fields of Clinical Psychology and Criminal Justice. This dual degree program is presented in a hybrid format and trains students to develop expertise across a range of clinical applications, which includes consulting and evaluation, to applied psychology.

• Upon completing the program, students will have earned both a Doctorate in Psychology (PsyD) and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice (MCJ).
• The program contains 120 credit hours for the PsyD, and a further 24 credits go toward the Master’s in Criminal Justice. The average completion time for the program is around five years.
• Being a hybrid program, all courses in the criminal justice components are offered online.
• The program also integrates practicum placements and internship training programs. Practicum training takes place in the first three years of the program, while Internship Training takes place in the fourth and fifth years. These internships and field placements may take place in a wide range of fields/areas of specialty that the student selects.
• Students first apply to the PsyD program upon enrollment, after which they can apply for the Master’s degree in Criminal Justice program during the second semester of their first year, provided they are in good standing.

The Widener University Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology is recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of the APA (American Psychological Association).

What Makes This Program Unique?

Widener University’s Clinical Psychology and Criminal Justice Dual Degree Program is a unique blend of 2 professional fields that overlap in the context of our Criminal Justice System.

Rather than offering a master’s degree and a doctoral degree for a single professional field, the program gives students a more comprehensive set of skills that they can take to careers in a variety of psycho-legal settings, as they essentially have foundational knowledge and specialized training in two separate disciplines. 

Instead of melding Clinical Psychology with Criminal Justice, students can also explore the intersection of business leadership and psychology with Widener’s MBA & PsyD ( Psychology & Health Care Management ) dual degree program, which is also offered in a hybrid format.

John F Kennedy University (National University)

MA in Sport Psychology – Clinical PsyD Dual Degree

John F. Kennedy University, which is now part of the National University system as the John F. Kennedy School of Psychology, offers an MA in Sport Psychology – Clinical PsyD Dual Degree program, which is a unique blend of the fields of clinical and sports psychology. The program is offered either hybrid or in-person at their Pleasant Hill, California, location.

• The program typically takes six years to complete on full-time enrollment.
• The program contains a total of 222 credit hours, with the PsyD core coursework comprising 128 credit hours. Part-time and evening options are also available.
•  Student work toward earning their MA and PsyD degrees concurrently. They normally earn their MA after their third year and the PsyD after their fifth year in the program.
• The program is designed to produce graduates who fulfill practitioner rather than researcher roles while providing the same high level of scholarly study.
• Both MA and PsyD degree programs have similar roles, that is, providing strong foundations in counseling skills, while training students to serve diverse populations.

This degree program is a specialized blend of clinical psychology and the field of sports and performance psychology. Students get the unique opportunity to work with clients in both clinical and sports settings. Having both degrees enables graduates to use the title of Sport Psychologist.

  Did You Know?

National University also offers the Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) and the Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology as separate degree programs.

DePaul University

Master of Arts and PhD in Clinical Psychology

DePaul University, known for its academic standing and distinguished faculty, offers the combined degree program of Master of Arts and PhD in Clinical Psychology . This dual degree program has an emphasis on providing training in both scientific research and practice. Students are expected to gain a deeper understanding of both the societal and systemic forces that impact mental health and contributes to the disparities when it comes to access to adequate health.

The dual degree program will only admit Ph.D. candidates since the MA degree is non-terminal.

• In this clinical psychology program, students will get a solid foundation to prepare them for positions in the public sector, including those in urban environments with diverse ethnic and socio-economic populations that are underserved by psychology.
• Students who wish to earn this program may do so by attending classes on the Lincoln Park Campus, which will typically take them five or six years to complete.
• The master’s degree will require students to take 20 courses, along with a practicum and thesis.
• Students will then need to take three core courses for the Ph.D. degree, two practica, an internship, and a dissertation.
• The dual degree program offers two areas of emphasis – the community track and the child track.

Students in the clinical program will be able to participate in extensive practicum opportunities, including state-of-the-art training that begins in the university’s in-house clinic, DePaul Family and Community Services. The dual program requires students to complete their practicum at FCS in the second year.

On top of this, students may also choose among other Chicago-area externship sites for advanced training, including Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center Behavioral Health Service, Howard Brown Health Center, and UIC Neuropsychology (Pediatric and Adult), among others.

The Clinical Psychology dual program at DePaul University has received three American Psychological Association awards. Two of those focused on overall excellence in training, and one recognizes the program’s commitment to diversity.

Differentiating Between a Doctorate in Psychology (PsyD Programs) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D. in Psychology Programs)

Both the PsyD and the Ph.D. in Psychology are terminal degrees and can form part of the set of minimum requirements for clinical practice, together with a license. Currently, both degrees are equally common in the field of Psychology, but there are a few key differences.

Traditionally, the Doctor of Philosophy is the older of the two degrees, with the PsyD first coming into existence around the 1970s. Like any other Doctor of Philosophy degree, the Ph.D. in Psychology is traditionally oriented toward high scholarly pursuit, in current terms, scholarly research. Students enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Psychology can expect to primarily take on roles in academia and research.

The PsyD, meanwhile, was conceived as an alternative terminal degree to the Ph.D., as a way to award a doctoral degree oriented toward professional practice focusing on Counseling Psychology and similar fields, as opposed to scholarly research. The PsyD is generally oriented toward practitioner roles as opposed to academic ones.

This fundamental difference in intellectual emphasis of the two-degree types also manifests in their respective curriculum designs. Students in Ph.D. programs can expect to take more statistics and research-related coursework, while students in PsyD programs can expect to take more coursework oriented toward hands-on training in actual clinical practice across a variety of settings.

Popular Courses in Psychology Dual Degree Programs

Dual degree programs in Psychology are primarily varied, with each program following its own set of learning outcomes that determine its subsequent curriculum design. Some dual degree programs that combine two usually separate fields of study into a single degree program add even more to the variety.

Here are a number of common thematic areas for the specific courses in these dual degree programs:

• Quantitative Research (Theory Bases, Design, and Methods) — Whether they be PsyD or Ph.D. in Psychology degree programs, both of these involve research in one form or another, with the PsyD orientated toward research for use in clinical practice settings, and the Ph.D. program toward research in more scholarly contexts.
• Qualitative Research – The methods and theory base that underlie qualitative research are fundamentally different from qualitative research methods, and these are often treated separately as a course all their own.
• Psychometrics – This thematic area serves as an exposition of the principles as well as the various types of psychological assessment tools currently in use in the field for a variety of applications.
• Multicultural/Cross-Cultural Psychology – The state of current professional practice in Psychology necessarily encounters various cultural contexts in the various diverse populations that graduates expect to serve once they earn their degrees.
• Ethics and Professional Issues – Much like any other profession, Psychology has its own set of ethics to keep in mind, as well as current prevailing issues in the field.
• Fundamental Topic Areas in Psychology – This set of courses covers the various topics that form the core content of the Psychology degree program. These courses can include areas such as developmental psychology, social psychology, health psychology, sports psychology, the behavioral sciences, and more.

Potential Careers For Dual Programs in Psychology Graduates

According to BLS, the overall employment of psychologists is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031 . This means pursuing a career in the field is all worth it for interested students. Those who wish to carve a successful career in psychology may want to consider the following career paths:

Clinical Psychologist

This particular psychologist is responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating clients struggling with psychological disorders. They often work in mental health clinics, hospital settings, and private practice clinics. Clinical psychologists are Doctor in Psychology degree holders. It is common for most states to require clinical psychologists to complete a minimum of a one-year internship.

School Psychologist

Often found in educational work settings, school psychologists help children deal with problems that have to do with their emotional, academic, and social state. It is known as one of the fastest growing fields as more and more support pours in to support the needs of students.

Sports Psychologist

The field of sport psychology is thriving. This particular area focuses on the psychological aspects of sports. It covers essential topics such as motivation, performance, and injury. The role of sports psychologists often involves helping athletes improve their performance. They also aid those who need to improve their mental and physical health with the use of sports.

Career Counselor

Another career path for those with a dual degree in psychology is that of a career counselor. It is their job to aid people who are searching for new jobs or changing their careers. As career counselors, one will help clients make career decisions, all the while utilizing relevant tools such as personality assessments and other evaluation measures. Part of their responsibility is to look at clients’ interests, education, job history, and skills to come up with careers that will match their interests and capabilities.

Organizational Psychologist

Focusing on workplace behavior, an industrial organizational psychologist utilizes psychological principles to increase workers’ productivity. They are also responsible for matching potential employees with particular jobs that are best suited for them. Sometimes, they may even need to train and assess employees and evaluate job applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth enrolling in Dual Psychology programs?

Often, the main obstacle to earning advanced degree programs in psychology is the length of time it takes to complete them. Those who want to earn both a master’s and a doctoral program will find a dual degree in psychology valuable. This means students can accelerate their degree, saving both precious time and money in the process.

Most of the dual programs in psychology offer flexibility, especially if they are offered online. Students who are earning the dual degree program will be able to gain in-depth knowledge of the various elements of psychology, including theory, research, and clinical practice. They will be able to transition into the highest degree available in the field of psychology without having to spend too much time and money on master’s and PhD degree programs separately.

Before arriving at a decision, however, students must first consider their personal and professional goals. Dual degree programs are not the same. Some have unique combinations that may not fit within their desired career paths.

What are the requirements for earning dual Masters and Psychology doctoral programs?

The admission process to a dual program often differs from one educational institution to another. Some may be more competitive and require students to meet specific requirements such as a particular GPA or test score. Others may require certain prerequisites that must be completed before enrolling.

Others may be more flexible. Still, most of the online dual degree programs require more or less the same admission requests, no matter which graduate school they are offered. Some of them include the following:

• Transcripts of record
• Three letters of recommendation
• Academic statement of purpose
• Updated resume or CV
• Academic writing sample
• GRE, GMAT, and other standardized test scores
• For international students, English proficiency scores (TOEFL or IELTS) may be needed. Scores must be dated no more than two years prior to the date of matriculation.
• An application fee

It is important for interested students to check with the university of their choice and find out the specific admission requirements for a more seamless application process.

How long can students expect to finish their dual Master’s and Ph.D. programs in Psychology?

The short answer is… it depends. The program duration differs from university to university, depending on how rigorous the curriculum is and how difficult the degree requirements can be. It may also be affected by the mode of enrollment of students. Those enrolled full-time will understandably earn it quicker than those on a part-time enrolment basis.

Typically, a master’s degree may be earned within two to three years. A Ph.D. degree, on the other hand, can be earned somewhere between three to five years. That is, if one is pursuing those advanced degrees separately. The dual program gives students the benefit of earning both the master’s and Ph.D. degree programs in as little as four years.

The number of course credits required and students’ study schedule largely impacts the length of time it takes for one to earn the dual degree program. The gravity of the requirements can also be a factor. Some dual degree programs include the need to complete a capstone project, a thesis, a dissertation, or professional licensing requirements. All of these can take time.

Are there available financial aid options for students of Dual Degree Psychology programs?

Like any other degree type, these dual degree programs will be covered by at least one type of financial aid being offered by a specific university and can include grants, loans, and even competitive scholarships.

The set of financial aid options (and sometimes special discounts) offered by specific universities can vary, so it is best to talk directly with a specific university to get the most exact information on any financial aid options they may offer, as well as the most exact cost estimates for their degree programs, as the information posted on their degree programs’ websites are often only rough estimates.

Summary Points

Dual degree programs in Psychology don’t always award both Master’s and Doctoral degrees for only the field of Psychology; some degree programs take a more innovative path and provide a more interdisciplinary education by combining Psychology with another separate field of study into a single degree program.

Through dual degrees in Psychology, students are poised to gain a more comprehensive set of skills and foundational knowledge without having to apply for and enroll in two separate degree programs.

Dual degree programs demand just as much dedication and focus from students as their standalone degree counterparts. Especially with dual degree programs that integrate two separate areas of interest, students are presented with a unique opportunity for scholarly pursuit. Still, they must be mentally prepared for the coming coursework.

Additional Information:

• Top Free Online Psychology Courses
• The Best Online Master’s in Child Psychology
• The 15 Best Online Combined Masters and PsyD Programs – Best Schools and Info Guide

Related Posts

Explore ratings and reviews for schools and universities on our platform, your essential guide for making informed educational decisions. Find all the help and information you need for your educational journey in one convenient place.

• Best Online Programs
• Best Campus Programs
• Behavior Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Counseling & Mental Health
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• General Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational
• Marriage Family Therapy
• Social Psychology
• Social Work
• Educational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Family Psychologists
• Marriage Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• School Counselors
• Neuropsychologist
• I/O Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Addiction Counselor
• Mental Health Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Occupational Psychologist
• Child Psychiatrist
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• PsyD vs PhD

List of Combined Master’s and PsyD Programs

Earning a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree is an important educational step in becoming licensed to practice psychology. But for many people, just getting their Psy.D. won’t provide them with the specific training they want to practice in certain niche areas. And some PsyD programs include an M.A. or M.S. within the Psy.D. program by design, which many other students may prefer for academic reasons.

The good news for both groups is that there are several options for programs that combine master’s and other advanced degrees with Psy.D. training. Let’s take a look at these programs and important information students should know about each one.

Widener University — MBA/PsyD, MEd/PsyD, MCJ/PsyD

Chester, Pennsylvania 

Widener University has by far the most extensive options for students who want to pair Psy.D. education with training in another area. Not only does the school offer several degree pairings, but it also includes multiple focus areas that allow students to tailor their education specific to their career goals.

Here’s a look at what’s offered at Widener:

• MBA/Psy.D.: Two possible tracks are offered that pair a Master of Business Administration with a Psy.D. One is a general MBA/Psy.D. path, while the other combines a Psy.D. and an MBA in healthcare management
• MEd/Psy.D.: The combination Psy.D.-Master of Education has a programmatic focus on human sexuality education , preparing the graduate for a career as an educator, therapist or sexual health professional.
• MCJ/Psy.D.: Pairing a Master of Criminal Justice degree with a Psy.D. can help prepare graduates for psychology jobs within legal settings.

University of St. Thomas, MA/PsyD

Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Psy.D. track at the University of St. Thomas includes an option for students who want to first complete a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology before earning direct admission to the school’s counseling psychology Psy.D.

Prospective students to the St. Thomas Psy.D. must have a master’s degree in counseling psychology before applying.

Loyola University (Maryland), MS/PsyD

Chicago, Illinois

Loyola University (Maryland) includes a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology that students earn midway through their second academic year in the Psy.D. program. Students who already have master’s degrees may be able to shorten their Psy.D. track at Loyola, but not all courses will transfer, so applicants need to do their due diligence.

John F. Kennedy University, MA/PsyD

Pleasant Hill, California 

A unique dual degree focus on sports psychology is one of the primary offerings at John F. Kennedy University. The school’s Master of Arts in Sport Psychology leads into a clinical Psy.D., allowing graduates to work in clinical settings with athletes. The degree is also offered in a hybrid format, further distinguishing it from the pack.

Appalachian State University, MA/PsyD

Boone, North Carolina

Appalachian State gives students a chance to earn a Master of Arts in Psychology en route to their Psy.D., and applicants who already have a master’s degree may be able to shorten the time it takes to earn their Psy.D. degree .

Joint PhD Programs

Another option for those who want to seek professional licensure in psychology is to pursue a Ph.D., or Doctor of Philosophy. This is a more traditional, academic-oriented degree, but for students hoping to complete a dual degree program, pairing another type of education with a Ph.D. may be more common since Ph.D. programs overall are more common than Psy.D. tracks.

Here’s a look at a few of the options out there for dual Ph.D. in psychology programs:

• Drexel University: JD/PhD in Law & Psychology
• University of Arizona: JD/PhD in Psychology
• University of Nebraska: JD/PhD, Law-Psychology
• University of Pennsylvania: JD/PhD in Psychology
• University of Chicago: Joint PhD in Psychology and Business
• NOVA Southeastern University: MBA/PhD in Psychology

Earning a doctoral degree in psychology, whether a Psy.D. or Ph.D., is a huge commitment of time and energy. So if there’s a specific area in which you want to practice, it may pay to invest just a bit more time and energy (and probably money) into making sure that the degree you earn will give you the tools you need to succeed in a niche career. Dual-degree programs can be an important resource that goes way beyond just choosing a few electives.

2024 Best Online Combined Masters and PsyD Programs

Combined masters and PsyD programs allow you to earn a masters in another field while simultaneously working toward your professional doctorate in psychology.

Online dual degree programs can help you structure interdisciplinary coursework and get two degrees in a reasonable timeframe.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

If an interdisciplinary approach makes sense for your professional interests, an online dual masters and PsyD program might be an intriguing option. Most students are clear about a masters degree, but what is a PsyD degree program?

A PsyD is a professional doctorate designed to prepare students to deliver psychological services to groups or individuals in need of clinical therapy and mental health support.

Universities Offering Combined Masters and PsyD Degree Programs

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

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University offers a Doctor of Psychology with an en route Master of Arts in Psychology. To graduate, students must obtain 113 credit hours, including a dissertation and an internship. Applicants must submit GRE scores, a GPA of 3.0, a personal statement, and 3 references.

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

George Washington University

George Washington University offers a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology with the option to complete a Master of Psychology at the same time.

The program can usually be completed in 4 years, with the final year involving an internship. Applicants must have a bachelor’s in psychology and must submit 3 letters of recommendation and GRE scores.

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

John F Kennedy University

John F Kennedy University offers a dual degree for a Master of Arts in Sport Psychology and a Doctor of Clinical Psychology. The program can usually be completed in 6 years of full-time study. To graduate, students must obtain 128 credits, including an internship. Applicants must submit an online application.

JFKU is accredited by the Western Association of School and Colleges Senior University and College Commission.

Loyola University – Maryland

Loyola University—Maryland offers a combined Master of Science and Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology.

The program requires 131 credit hours, a dissertation, and a clinical placement to graduate and can typically be completed in 5 years. Applicants must complete an interview and submit an essay and 3 letters of recommendation.

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

Mercer University

Mercer University offers a combined Master of Public Health and Doctor of Psychology program. It can typically be completed in 5 years. Applicants must have a bachelor’s in psychology with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, GRE scores, a personal statement, and a resume.

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

National University

National University offers an online dual degree program for a Master of Arts in Sports Psychology and a Doctor of Clinical Psychology. The program can typically be completed in 5 years, with the master’s degree awarded at the end of the third year. Applicants must submit an online application.

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

Regent University

Regent University offers a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology that allows students to receive a master’s degree as well. The program requires 124 credit hours, including an internship, to graduate. Applicants must complete an academic background questionnaire and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher from their undergraduate work.

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

Rutgers University

Rutgers University offers a dual degree program for those interested in obtaining a Master of Public Health and a Doctor of Psychology. The program allows students to use 15 credits from the Doctor of Psychology towards the master’s degree. Those interested in the program must be in the Doctor of Psychology program.

Rutgers  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of St. Thomas

The University of St. Thomas offers a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a direct admission to the Doctor of Psychology program. Students must complete 129 credits to obtain both degrees. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree and need to submit official transcripts, 3 letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.

The  University of St. Thomas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Widener University

Widener University offers a dual degree program for students interested in obtaining a Master of Business Administration and a Doctor of Psychology.

The program can typically be completed in 5 years and requires summer and evening courses. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, submit a short essay, and complete an in-person interview.

Widener University  is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Combined Masters and PsyD Programs Online

The first question to ask yourself when thinking about a dual degree program is whether it aligns with your learning and career interests. If it does, then a dual degree program may save you time and money in the long run.

The next thing to consider is what kind of masters degree you want to combine or pair with your Psy.D. As you can imagine, you’ll find many different options online. As you explore different pairings, you may even find yourself envisioning a professional niche or pathway you hadn’t thought of yet.

Common Master’s Degree Pairings with PsyD Programs

When you’re considering what masters degree to pair with your psychology doctorate, it can help to determine what sort of combination might support your career goals.

Here are just a few of the masters and PsyD combinations you can find online:

MBA / Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

If you want to apply psychology to business initiatives, a joint Master of Business Administration and PsyD degree program can help prepare you for that kind of professional niche.

Alternately, the business savvy you get from your MBA classes could complement a PsyD with a specialization in industrial-organizational psychology.

Master’s in Education / Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Here are two ways to think about a dual MEd and PsyD degree. Your MEd can help to equip you for a career in educational psychology. You can also specialize in educational leadership and blend that with an organizational psychology doctoral degree.

Master’s in Criminal Justice / Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

If you decide to get a doctorate in psychology with a specialization in forensic psychology, the MSCJ and PsyD combination could be an interesting option.

By developing specialized skills in forensic psychology and criminal justice, you might later pursue work in the criminal justice system.

Master’s in Psychology / Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

In this single-track dual degree psychology program, you can efficiently earn a master’s degree in psychology while accruing course credits in a more extensive doctoral program.

This kind of program gives you an opportunity to explore academic study in psychology. If you decide getting a doctorate just isn’t for you, you can then exit the doctoral track with a master’s degree in hand.

Also, some universities offer masters PhD combined programs in addition to these masters PsyD dual programs.

Psychology Careers & Salaries

Psychology is a discipline with distinct branches. You can choose a dual degree program based on the area of psychology you want to specialize in.

For example, professionals who specialized in clinical study may work as psychotherapists or lead community mental health agencies or nonprofits. With a dual MBA and PsyD, you may be even better equipped for a career in medical and health services management.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , advanced training in psychology is applicable to a number of positions in various fields.

Professionals who specialize in industrial-organizational psychology can pursue an MBA degree to further equip themselves for roles such as human resources manager or training and development manager.

Those wanting to work as a school psychologist might specialize in educational psychology. An MEd and PsyD combination can help prepare you for careers related to school counseling, academic testing, or assessing and supporting students with learning disabilities.

A PhD in Psychology is often best suited for careers in academia and research, though a PsyD may qualify you as well.

Joint Masters and PsyD Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements vary by school and program. Some combined masters and PsyD programs in psychology may have additional requirements in statistics or other advanced math coursework. Common requirements are likely to include:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Satisfactory GPA
• GRE or GMAT scores (if required)
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement

As you find programs offering online degrees for psychology that best fit your professional goals, you can check out the admissions requirements ahead of time. You can also check with a school’s admissions office if you need more information.

Accreditation

It can be strategic to only apply to fully accredited schools and programs. State licensing boards often require you to have a degree from an accredited school and course of study.

The regional accreditation process helps ensure school services, student resources, and instructional programs meet accepted standards. By attending a regionally accredited school, you’re more likely to get high-quality instruction and up-to-date training in your field.

Accreditation can also be a precondition for some forms of financial aid. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) can offer more information about accreditation as well as a database of accredited schools.

APA Accredited Psychology Programs

Some doctorate programs in psychology have APA programmatic accreditation. This means that the course curriculum and academic training provided are endorsed by the American Psychological Association (APA) .

This kind of programmatic accreditation signifies that instructional content is aligned with the kinds of professional standards recognized by the APA. Some state licensing boards also require APA accreditation or other programmatic accreditation, so it’s beneficial to inquire about licensing requirements ahead of time.

The American Psychological Association offers search tools that can help you find APA accredited programs.

Psychology Licensure and Certifications

If you wish to become licensed, you can look up your state’s licensing board. Licensing requirements vary by state, but some common requirements include:

• A PhD in Psychology or a PsyD from a properly accredited school and program
• Satisfactory scores on any required licensing examinations
• Completion of supervised clinical practice, internship, or postdoc requirements

Some state boards may require candidates to have a degree from an APA accredited program. Licensing requirements may differ for psychologists who plan to deliver clinical services versus those who plan to pursue careers in educational psychology, forensic psychology, or industrial-organizational psychology.

Earning professional certifications can help you further specialize in the field or demonstrate your qualifications to prospective employers.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

If you need financial assistance to cover the costs of your dual degree program, you can see if you qualify for financial aid. Types of financial aid include federal or state education grants, need-based or merit-based scholarships, and student loans.

For loans and other forms of aid, terms and conditions can vary, so it’s beneficial to look over all offers carefully. If you’re currently working in the field, you may also qualify for employer-based tuition assistance.

If you plan to apply for financial aid, you might want to start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PsyD?

There are many online dual masters and PsyD programs that don’t require a master’s degree for admission. In the case of a dual program, though, there may be some prerequisites related to one or both of the majors you’re applying to study.

For example, a dual graduate program for an MBA and PsyD may require some prior preparation in statistics or other forms of advanced math relevant to quantitative analysis and research.

What Can You Do with a PsyD?

What you can do with a PsyD depends on the branch of psychology you choose to specialize in. There are also a number of factors that can affect your job prospects, including professional experience and licensing requirements.

Those who study clinical psychology may want to become licensed and offer psychotherapy services. Graduates with an MBA and a PsyD concentration in organizational psychology tend to pursue jobs in human resources management or workforce training and development management.

With an MBA/PsyD concentration in clinical psychology, graduates might want to manage healthcare services related to psychotherapy or community mental health. If you were to combine your PsyD with a masters in public health, you might qualify for positions in medical and health services management.

With a specialization in education and educational psychology, professionals may help school districts deliver or manage specialized student support services.

Alternately, with a masters in education and a PsyD concentration in organizational psychology, you might qualify for work in the fields of educational leadership and postsecondary education administration.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Dual Masters and PsyD?

Dual masters and PsyD programs typically take 4 to 6 years to complete, depending on the university and your chosen specialty.

How long it takes can depend on the total number of course credits required as well as your study schedule. You may also want to factor in capstone projects, your field study, or other professional licensing requirements.

If you want to finish as quickly as possible, you can look for online programs offering accelerated study timelines. These programs often require full-time, year-round academic commitments. They can be challenging, so it may be worth learning how to study effectively for exams.

What’s the Difference Between a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology?

Students often wonder whether there is a difference between a PsyD vs PhD in Psychology . A PhD in Psychology and a PsyD have a lot in common, but there are a few important differences.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is typically a more scholarly, research-based track. A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program is a professional doctorate that focuses more on advanced professional inquiry and practical professional development topics.

Is a Combined Master’s and PsyD Program Worth It?

Yes, a combined master’s and PsyD program is worth it for many students. Combining a complementary masters and PsyD allows you to develop a wider range of specialized skills that are relevant to your career interests.

For example, a professional doctorate in industrial-organizational psychology can be enhanced with the specialized business knowledge of an MBA. Education, healthcare, and social and community services are additional fields that complement psychology and its various branches.

Getting Your Combined Masters and PsyD Degree Online

Dual masters and PsyD programs allow you to simultaneously earn your masters and doctorate. There are a number of degree combinations that can help prepare you for various opportunities in specialized career niches.

Many flexible dual degree programs are now offered online. Much like with dual masters and PhD programs in psychology online , earning your combined masters and PsyD degree online may allow you to finish your program according to your own schedule. Different online dual degree programs may have full-time, part-time, or accelerated options.

If you’re ready to start this next step in your educational journey, you can begin by exploring the various combined masters and PsyD programs online offered by accredited universities.

Psychology - Clinical: Combined MS/PhD

Application deadline.

• Fall: Dec 1

Contact Information

• Bachelor's Degree: Psychology degree preferred, but not required
• Prerequisite undergraduate courses: To qualify for admission, individuals must either (1) have completed a minimum of 15 credits of study in psychology, including general/introductory psychology, abnormal psychology/psychopathology, statistics, and research methods or (2) have completed the GRE Psychology Subject Test and reported their scores to BYU prior to the application deadline.
• Application: Personal Information, Statement of Intent, Transcripts, 3 Letters of Recommendation, Resume/Vita, Automated Video Interview
• Please indicate in the application a faculty mentor whose research program is most closely aligned with your career goals. You will have the ability to specify up to three potential faculty mentors in the application.
• Virtual interviews with finalists will be held in January
• Finalists will be invited to an optional second look campus visit following virtual interviews. Admission decisions will not be contingent upon attending second look visit. 
• A background check will be required after the start of the program before a student is permitted to see clients.
• Credit hours (33 hour minimum; B grade or better in each class)
• Research data and analysis requirement:  9 hours of statistics and research methodology (Psych  501 ,  502 , and  504 )
• Clinical theory requirement:  3 hours of ethics and professional issues (Psych  609 ); 3 hours of psychopathology (Psych  611 ); 6 hours of assessment (Psych  622  and  623 ); and 6 hours of psychotherapy (Psych  651  and Psych  652 ).
• Master's thesis:  Students will complete a master's thesis that includes no fewer than 6 thesis credit hours (Psych  699R ).  Students have three years to complete the MS degree requirements, including the thesis, and are not allowed to enroll in doctoral level courses during their fourth year if these requirements have not been met.
• Completion of the Psychology MS degree  (including all coursework and the MS thesis) is a requirement to attain the Clinical Psychology PhD.
• The program requires the development of broad competencies described in the Clinical Psychology PhD Program Handbook and the Practicum Handbook. Thus, the program is not merely a series of courses and experiences. In addition to the requirements listed below, the student must demonstrate competence in clinical work, research, academics, and professionalism to advance through the various phases of the degree program, including the year-long predoctoral internship and clearance for graduation. 
• Credit hours (100 minimum including MS coursework; B grade or better in each class).
• Research requirements: 18 hours of dissertation (Psych  799R ).
• General core courses: 3 hours of biological bases of behavior (Psych  585 ); 6 hours of social-cultural bases of behavior (Psych  550 ,  645 ); 3 hours of cognitive-affective bases of behavior (Psych  575 ); 3 hours of human development (Psych  520 ); 3 hours of history and systems (Psych  510 ).
• Clinical core courses: 3 additional hours of psychotherapy (one of the following:  653 ,  654 ,  656 ).
• Clinical practica: 20 hours of clinic practica (Psych  741R ); 2 hours of externships/clerkships (Psych  688R ); 3 hours of case conference (Psych  740R ); 3 hours of pre-doctoral internship (Psych  745 )
• Dissertation (including a manuscript in a form suitable for submission for publication appended to the dissertation).
• Internship: One-year pre-doctoral internship in a setting approved by the clinical director. 
• Examinations: (a) comprehensive examinations in first, second, and third years; (b) oral defense of master's thesis; (c) oral defense of dissertation prospectus; and (d) oral defense of dissertation.

Department Courses Department Faculty

• Joint/Dual Doctoral Programs
• Programs of Study
• Doctoral Programs
• Masters Programs
• Joint/Dual Masters Programs
• MA and PhD Certificates
• Joint BA/MA Degrees
• Undergraduate Programs

The University of Chicago is renowned for its interdisciplinary culture, and doctoral students can pursue a variety of joint or dual degree programs. Opportunities to create a specific combination can be discussed with one’s Director of Graduate Study.

Existing programs include:

PhD in Political Economy

Offered jointly between the Department of Political Science and the Harris School of Public Policy , the PhD program in Political Economy provides accelerated training in formal theory and statistical methods alongside deep engagement with political science. 

Joint PhD in Anthropology and Linguistics

In addition to linguistic anthropology as a sub-field within the Department of Anthropology , a joint Ph.D. program is available to students who are admitted to both the Department of Anthropology and the  Department of Linguistics . Administratively, the student is admitted to, and remains registered in, the primary, or “home” department, and subsequently seeks admission to the second department in joint residence status. Students approved to pursue the joint degree program must complete the requirements of both departments, including the distinct introductory and advanced courses stipulated by each, the departmental qualifying examination in appropriate special fields, and the language requirements, including additional foreign languages for the Linguistics Ph.D. Students should declare interest in the Joint Degree Program on the initial graduate application to the Department, and should discuss this interest personally with linguistic anthropology faculty soon after arrival on campus.

Joint PhD in Psychology and Linguistics

Students in the Department of Linguistics in the Division of the Humanities who wish to work toward a joint PhD in Psychology's Cognition Program and in Linguistics must be admitted to the Department of Psychology .

Joint PhD in Financial Economics

Established in 2006, the Joint PhD Program in Financial Economics is offered jointly by the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics and the Finance dissertation area at  Chicago Booth . The aim of this program is to leverage the strengths of both sponsors in training PhD students interested in financial economics. Students must satisfy program requirements for the PhD in both departments.

Joint PhD in Psychology and Business

Established in 2009, the Joint Program in Psychology and Business is overseen jointly by the  Department of Psychology  and the  Behavioral Science dissertation area  at Chicago Booth. The aim of this program is to connect the large number of social, cognitive, and organizational psychologists at Chicago Booth and within the Department of Psychology. To qualify for the joint program, a student must be admitted into either the Psychology or the Business graduate program.

JD/PhD Programs

Doctoral students in Social Sciences who are also admitted to the University of Chicago Law School may pursue a concurrent PhD/JD program , where there is an explicit and authorized close association between legal education and doctoral training. Students in the concurrent degree program alternate registration sites between the two units. Students complete all requirements for both degrees. Applicants must apply to both programs separately. The University of Chicago Law School has established a fellowship program to support students pursuing a concurrent JD/PhD at the University of Chicago, which may grant fellowship aid during the Law School years.

MD/PhD in Medicine, the Social Sciences, and Humanities

The program in  Medicine, the Social Sciences and Humanities (MeSH)  at the University of Chicago trains medical students to become innovative physician-scholars at the critical interface of medicine and society. The MeSH program is an opportunity for students interested in obtaining an MD and a PhD in a field outside of the traditional biological and physical sciences. Students interested in MeSH may pursue a doctoral degree among any of the graduate programs relevant to the social sciences and humanities at the University of Chicago.

Joint PhD in Social Thought & Classics

The  Joint Ph.D. Program in Social Thought and Classics  is intended for students whose study of a particular issue or text from the ancient Greek and Roman world requires a broadly inter-disciplinary approach alongside a professional mastery of philological skills. Those interested in pursuing this joint degree program must first be admitted in EITHER the  Committee on Social Thought  OR the  Department of Classics  and complete at minimum the two quarter language survey (Greek or Latin), offered by the Department of Classics, with an average grade of B or higher. Application shall then be made to the second department and, provided that the standards of admission to that department are met, students will be admitted to joint degree status. 

Joint PhD Social Thought & Philosophy

The  Joint Ph.D. Program in Social Thought and Philosophy  is designed to provide students with equal in-depth training, simultaneously provided by the Committee on Social Thought and the Department of Philosophy . Those interested in pursuing this joint degree program must first be admitted in EITHER the Committee on Social Thought OR the Department of Philosophy. After commencing the program of study, application shall then be made to the second department and, provided that the standards of admission to that department are met, students will be admitted to joint degree status. 

Other Joint and Ad Hoc Degree Possibilities

Students admitted to any doctoral program in Social Sciences may subsequently petition the University to create a joint program with another department. Such individually-created joint degree programs begin in the second year of graduate studies or later. In all cases, students complete the separate program requirements for each degree, with no additional residence requirement, and write one Ph.D. dissertation that separately meets the dissertation requirements of each department.

This Website Uses Cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using our website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Cookie Policy.

Explore Greyhound Nation

• Loyola Today

Combined M.S./Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology

The Psy.D. program in Clinical Psychology is a full-time, five-year program of study. All entering students must complete and pass a background check prior to admission. Accepted applicants will begin the program at the first year of the curriculum, as 1st year students. The first year of the curriculum includes coursework and clinical placement.  First-year students will be awarded the M.S. in Psychology degree upon successful completion of the required credit hours (typically in January of the 2nd year). Students who enter the program at the first-year level will complete a total of 124 credits, including credit hours for dissertation, clinical placement, and course work.  Students will take written and oral comprehensive exams following the third year of the curriculum, prior to applying for doctoral internship. The final, fifth year is a full-time doctoral internship for most students.

All requirements for the Psy.D. program, including the dissertation and doctoral internship, must be completed within seven years of enrollment in the program. This necessitates that students apply for doctoral internship no later than the fall of their sixth academic year.

Director, Clinical Training: Jen L. Lowry, Ph.D.

For more information contact: Traci Martino, M.S., Director, Program Operations   410-617-2175 [email protected]

*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 Email: [email protected] Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

Department of Philosophy

Philosophy and psychology combined ph.d. program.

The Philosophy and Psychology Combined PhD Program is a program offered by the Departments of Philosophy and Psychology at Yale. Students enrolled in the program complete a series of courses in each discipline as well as an interdisciplinary dissertation that falls at the intersection of the two. On completing these requirements, students are awarded a PhD either in Philosophy and Psychology, or in Psychology and Philosophy.

Students can be admitted into the combined program through either Psychology or through Philosophy. Students must be accepted into one of these departments (the ‘home department’) through the standard admissions process, and both departments must then agree to accept the student into the combined program.

Students can be accepted into the combined program either (a) at the time they initially apply for admission to their home department or (b) after having already completed some coursework within the home department. In either case, students must be accepted into the combined program by each department, with procedures for acceptance determined by the department’s faculty.

Requirements

(I) Courses

(i) Eight philosophy courses: a suitable course in logic (unless the logic requirement is satisfied in some other way), the First Year Seminar, and two courses in each of the following areas (1) metaphysics, theory of knowledge, philosophy of science; (2) ethics, aesthetics, philosophy of religion, political philosophy, and theory of value; (3) history of philosophy

(ii) Three psychology courses: one in statistics, one in the student’s primary research area and one outside of the student’s primary research area

(II) Empirical research

(i) A first-year research paper in psychology, due in the second semester

(ii) A pre-dissertation research project in psychology, due in the fourth semester

(III) Qualifying papers, due in the fifth semester

(i) One qualifying paper in the history of philosophy

(ii) One thematic paper that involves work in both philosophy and psychology (and would be approved by a faculty member in each department)

(IV) A dissertation prospectus, by the end of the sixth semester

(V) A single interdisciplinary dissertation, conducted under the supervision of faculty both in philosophy and in psychology

• Statements on Current Events
• Make a Gift

Dual-Title PhD in Psychology and Social Behavioral Neuroscience

Beginning in fall of 2019 students will be able to pursue a new dual title in Social Behavioral Neuroscience. Social behavioral neuroscience reflects the study of how brain development and function influence, and are influenced by, social environments and human interaction. The dual-title Ph.D. program provides students with additional training in the neurobiological foundations of brain function in order to enable them to pursue innovative interdisciplinary research with intellectual sophistication. Social Behavioral Neuroscience (SBN) represents a sub-domain within the Neuroscience discipline focusing on the relation between brain and cognition and behavior.  As such, SBN seeks to connect at least two levels of analysis.  Research that is solely restricted to a single level of analysis is not considered to fit within the SBN framework regardless of whether the single level is behavioral (e.g. examining cognitive task performance among individuals with Alzheimer’s) or biological (e.g. examining the regenerative properties of neurons).  Although each domain can have clear implications for the other, the SBN framework seeks to explicitly examine the associations between them. 

The Social and Behavioral Neuroscience dual-title degree program is administered by the Social and Behavioral Neuroscience Steering Committee, which is responsible for the management of the program. The committee oversees the general direction of the program, identifies faculty and courses appropriate to the program, recommends policy and procedures for the program’s operation to the Dean of the Graduate School, and is an advisory body to the program Director. The program enables students from participating graduate programs to obtain foundational graduate-level training in neuroscience as well as expertise in social and behavioral neuroscience theory, research, and methods.  This dual-title training will enable rigorous research at the intersection of neuroscience and the students’ partner discipline.  To pursue a dual-title degree under this program the student must apply to the Graduate School and register through one of the approved graduate programs.

Admission to the Dual-Title

Before they can apply for admission to the dual-title degree program, students must apply and be admitted to a primary graduate program with a formal affiliation to the dual-title, as well as to the Graduate School.  The following graduate programs offer a dual degree in Social and Behavioral Neuroscience:  Biobehavioral Health ,  Human Development and Family Studies  and  Psychology .

Students may apply for enrollment in the dual-title degree program during their first year (second semester) or second year in their primary graduate program.  Students must be admitted into the dual-title degree program prior to taking the qualifying exam.  Students can be enrolled in are of the program areas within psychology: Clinical, cognitive, developmental, industrial/organizational, and social.

To apply, students should submit (1) a completed application form, (2) graduate and undergraduate transcripts, and (3) a letter of recommendation from their graduate adviser to the Psychology department member of the SBN Steering Committee. 

Degree Requirements

All coursework requirements indicated below are in addition to the courses required in psychology.  Students are encouraged to discuss their course planning with their advisor and the SBN coordinator in psychology in order to establish the most efficient path to fulfilling degree requirements.  Students are permitted to take any of the required courses, including the SBN 590 seminar series, prior to declaring the dual-title, and may wish to do so as part of the process of deciding whether the dual-title is right for them.

The minimum course work requirements for the dual-title Ph.D. degree are as follows:

• NEURO 520 (3 credits)
• NEURO 511 (3 credits)  or  NEURO 512 (4 credits)  or  BIOL 478 (3 credits)
• SBN 590 (1 credit, taken twice)
• A minimum of 12 credits of approved SBN electives

Approved Electives

• NEURO 521 (3 credits)
• HDFS 502:  Biological Systems in Developmental Context
• HDFS 512: Cognitive Developmental Neuroscience of Adolescence
• PSY 524: Biological Basis of Behavior
• SBN 505  (3 credits, variable)
• SBN 508  (3 credits, variable)
• SBN 511  (3 credits, variable)

Courses offered under the 597 designation, or courses with a permanent course number but which may or may not fulfill the SBN objectives depending on the instructor offering the course in a given semester, can be approved on a case-by-case basis.  Students requesting to have a course approved as counting toward the elective requirement should submit the syllabus to the psychology department coordinator.  Requests will be reviewed by the Steering Committee or its designee.

Sample programs of coursework can be found at the bottom.

Qualifying Research

In addition to the coursework criteria, students pursuing the dual-title must conduct dissertation research that meets the expectations of the program. Because SBN seeks to understand the associations between brain and behavior, SBN research must include a measure that has been determined to validly index and/or impact brain function, and must be explicit in how this measure contributes to our understanding of brain function. Examples can include measurement of electrical potentials at the scalp surface (EEG/ERP), cerebral changes in blood oxygenation or glucose utilization (fMRI, PET), structural anatomy of the brain (MRI, DTI), function of peripheral organs innervated by cranial nerves (heart, facial muscles), peripheral indices of central nervous system function (skin conductance, neuroendocrine measures such as cortisol), exogenously administered psychoactive medications (e.g. therapeutic or non-therapeutic substances), and variations in the genome and/or epigenome with biologically mapped implications for brain function. Measures of peripheral organ activity that are not mapped to central nervous system function (e.g. venous plethysmography, peripheral muscular control, spinal reflexes) are not sufficient. Techniques that use behavior to assume biological functionality (e.g. neuropsychological testing, behavioral genetics) are also not sufficient.

Committee Composition and Exam Format

Qualifying examination committee composition.

The qualifying examination committee must conform to all requirements of the graduate program in psychology and the Graduate Council. In accordance with Graduate Council,  the qualifying examination committee  must include at least one member of the SBN Graduate Faculty.

Qualifying Exam

The dual-title degree will be guided by the Qualifying Exam procedure of the graduate program in psychology and the Graduate Council. The dual-title program defers to the primary program with regard to the format, structure and timing of the Qualifying Exam, as well as the discretion of the SBN representative to determine the appropriate exam content.  Because students must first be admitted to a primary graduate program of study before they may apply to and be considered for admission into SBN, dual-title graduate degree students may require an additional semester to fulfill requirements for both areas of study and, therefore, the Graduate School permits the qualifying examination to be delayed up to one semester beyond  the normal period allowable .

Ph.D. Committee Composition

The Ph.D. committee must conform to all requirements of the primary graduate program and the Graduate Council. In addition to the  general Graduate Council requirements for Ph.D. committees , the Ph.D. committee of an SBN student must include at least one member of the SBN Graduate Faculty. If the chair of the Ph.D. committee is not also a member of the Graduate Faculty in Social and Behavioral Neuroscience, a member of the committee representing SBN must be appointed as co-chair.

Comprehensive Exam

The dual-title degree will be guided by the Comprehensive Exam procedure of the graduate program in psychology. After completion of required course work, SBN students must pass a comprehensive examination. In programs where this includes evaluation of a written exam, the SBN representative on the student’s Ph.D. committee will participate in the writing and evaluation of the exam, in accordance with procedures maintained by the primary graduate program. In programs where the comprehensive exam involves defense of a dissertation prospectus, the SBN representative on the student’s Ph.D. committee will participate in the evaluation of the prospectus, including ensuring the proposed dissertation has substantial SBN content.

Dissertation and Dissertation Defense

Upon completion of the doctoral dissertation, the candidate must pass a final oral examination (the dissertation defense) to earn the Ph.D. degree. Students enrolled in the dual-title program are required to write and orally defend a dissertation on a topic that reflects their original research and education in their primary graduate discipline and in SBN. The dissertation must be accepted by the Ph.D. committee, the heads of both graduate programs, and the Graduate School.

Since the Department of Psychology has multiple distinct areas of training, there is no one set of requirements in pursuit of the PhD in psychology or the SBN dual title degree.  However, we note here an example of courses a student could take as part of their training plan.

Table 1 offers a side-by-side comparison of the requirements for a Psychology student who is not participating in a dual-title degree program (left column) and for a Psychology student who is participating in the SBN dual-title (right column). Table 2 illustrates a path through course work and other milestone requirements for a Psychology student completing the SBN dual-title Ph.D .

Table 1. Comparison of Course Work Requirements— PSY and PSY-SBN

Table 2. Illustrative Path Through the Dual-Title Ph.D.

• Core  = course required of all students to complete the degree
• REQ  = credit requirement toward degree, with flexibility in specific course
• AREA=PSY, 15 credit requirement in program area
• BREADTH=PSY, 12 credit breadth requirement

• MyUHart MyUHart Blackboard Self-Service Hawkmail Compass UNotes UHartHub
• Healthy Hawks
• Self-Service

Dual MS in Organizational Psychology/MBA

At a glance.

Earn both a Master of Science in Organizational Psychology (MSOP) from the College of Arts and Sciences, and a Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) from the Barney School of Business. Courses offered on-campus and online with summer, fall and spring semesters (winter optional). Degrees can be earned in three years.

Degrees Offered

Total credits, organizational psychology, about the program, degree requirements, application process.

Through a partnership with the College of Arts and Sciences and the Barney School of Business, you can earn your master’s degree in both Organizational Psychology and Business Administration.

You pair an increased business acumen with an in-depth knowledge of people in organizations. This program helps you understand the research and data processes that support and drive best practices in organizations, and connects you with high-quality faculty and alumni networks in both the Barney School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences.

This 60 credit program is 12 fewer credits than if you pursued both degrees separately.

• 60 credits (20 courses)
• Part time or full time
• Courses offered during summer, fall, and spring semesters (winter optional)
• Program can be completed with a mix of on-campus and online courses
• Rolling admission
• Degrees can be earned in three years
• Applicants complete one application
• Applicants must be accepted to the College of Arts and Sciences and the Barney School of Business
• Read more in our Course Catalog
• Request information

This unique program is intended for working professionals who wish to combine their interest in psychology and management as it applies to organizational science and practice.

The MSOP curriculum prepares you to lead, manage, and/or consult with dynamic and diverse organizations operating in a global environment, while your MBA courses give you the knowledge, skills, and values you need to become a successful manager.

This dual degree will help you stand out among your peers.

The Dual MSOP/MBA program is a unique 20 course (60-credit) program requiring 10 courses each from the MS in Organizational Psychology and MBA programs. The MSOP side of the dual degree has 5 core requirements (15 credits), including a Capstone project (open to all) or internship (on-campus students only), and 5 electives, one of which may be taken in the Barney School of Business. The MBA side of the dual degree has 9 core required courses and one elective. Courses taken within the College of Arts & Sciences are charged at the A&S per credit graduate tuition rate and courses taken within the Barney School of Business are charged at the Barney per credit graduate tuition rate. Current graduate tuition rates by College can be viewed Graduate Tuition and Fees page .

For more information, and to see a complete list of degree requirements, visit the Cours e Catalog.

MSOP Core Courses

You must complete the following four courses, as well as an internship or capstone project:

• Experimental Design
• Introduction to Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Personnel Psychology
• Advanced Research Methods

MSOP Research/Internship

Choose from one of the following:

• Capstone Project
• Internship in Organizational Psychology

MBA Core Courses

A total of 27 credits is required. Examples of core courses include:

• Managerial Statistics and Analytics
• Economics for Managers
• Accounting for Decision Makers
• Corporate Financial Strategy and Valuation
• Organizational Leadership

No more than two courses (6 credits), pre-approved, from the MSOP program may be applied toward the MBA degree. One course (3 credits) must be an MBA elective.

Electives are non-required courses in both programs.

Applicants complete one single application, but must be accepted to the graduate programs of both the College of Arts and Sciences and the Barney School of Business. The following is required:

• An online application
• A $50 application fee
• A letter of intent and provide your current resume
• Official transcripts of all previous baccalaureate and graduate study
• GMAT test scores if applicable* or GRE
• Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional reference

GMAT waivers based on substantive work experience may be granted in extraordinary circumstances.

Meet Your Success Counselor

Take the next step, request information, visit campus, scholarships & aid, similar programs.

Our program provides a theoretical framework in organizational behavior, skills in research design, data collection and analysis, communication, facilitation, and interpersonal, group, and organizational issues. This program has a STEM designation.

Master of Business Administration

Complete your MBA with just 12 classes, either online or in class, part-time or full-time! Choose the format that best supports your learning style. Generally, the average working professional will be able to finish our program in two years.

Start your UHart journey today. Take the next step.

• Admitted Students
• New & Incoming Students
• Current Students
• High School Students
• Faculty & Staff
• Parents & Families
• Community & Partners
• Self-Service
• Wolfgram Library
• Undergrad/First-Year Visit
• Graduate Studies Visit
• Adult & Cont. Studies Visit
• Undergrad/First-Year Request
• Graduate Studies Request
• Adult & Cont. Studies Request
• Undergrad/First-Year Apply
• Graduate Studies Apply
• Adult & Cont. Studies Apply

• Clinical Psychology (PsyD) and Master's of Business Administration (MBA)

Our clinical psychology & business administration dual degree prepares you for success in organizational consulting and executive coaching.

• Graduate Degree Programs

At a Glance

Dual Degree

On Campus or Hybrid (Online & On Campus)

• College of Health & Human Services
• School of Business
• Chester, PA

On This Page

Explore our psyd/mba dual degree program.

As a PsyD/MBA dual degree student, you'll uniquely complete a doctorate of clinical psychology  and a master of business administration  at the same time.

This multidisciplinary program trains clinical psychologists to apply psychological principles and knowledge of change processes in business and organizational settings. You'll learn to integrate clinical psychology expertise with a deep understanding of business and organizational systems through: 

• One-year field placements in consultation to business and nonprofit executives
• Professional development activities
• Specialized courses in leadership, executive assessment, and change management
• A concentration in either executive coaching or organizational consulting

You'll graduate ready to work as a qualified organizational consultant and executive coach.

Our doctoral degree in clinical psychology program and exclusively-affiliated internship are  accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association  (750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, 202-336-5979).

• Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data for the doctoral program
• Internship Admissions, Support, and Initial Placement Data for the internship program

Our School of Business Administration is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business .

PsyD/MBA Program Information

In this dual degree program, you'll spend five years of full-time residence at the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology to earn your  doctorate in clinical psychology . Starting in the summer of the first year of the PsyD program, you'll take additional evening and summer courses to earn your Master of Business Administration (MBA).

You'll take a core sequence of courses that integrates the psychology and business school curricula. These courses build on the general clinical psychology and business school curricula to instill the core competencies needed for psychologists to be successful in organizational settings:

• Consulting and organizational psychology
• Leadership development
• Executive assessment
• Executive coaching
• Organizational change management

You'll also gain hands-on, supervised experience through practicum placements, internship placements, or both with concentrations in executive coaching or organizational consulting. One of the primary placements for this program is  Widener’s Organizational Development Services (ODS) . At ODS, you'll provide leadership and personality assessments and leadership coaching services to Widener students, faculty and administrators, and organizational leaders in surrounding communities.

Your training will culminate in the production of a dissertation that integrates clinical psychology with organizational psychology and business.

View the Loading... for curriculum and coursework requirements.

[Need description]

Doctoral education alone is not sufficient for licensure in the United States. In addition to requiring specific educational criteria, all states require candidates for licensure to pass a national exam after completing graduate education (the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology [EPPP]), and many states also require additional experiences for licensure, including supervised post-doctoral experiences, criminal history background checks, and personal ethical/moral references. Specific requirements for each state vary, and are developed and monitored by State Boards of Psychology. A general list of State Boards and contacts can be found on the website of the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards . 

The curriculum provided by Widener’s Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology meets state educational requirements for licensure as listed below. It is strongly recommended that students who expect to pursue licensing in a particular state reach out to the licensing board to confirm specific licensing requirements. The information below is accurate, as best as could be determined based on published records of state licensing requirements, as of June 2021.

Widener’s PsyD curriculum meets educational requirements for licensing in the following states

It is still being determined whether widener’s psyd curriculum meets educational requirements for licensing in the following states.

• Puerto Rico

Widener’s PsyD curriculum does not meet educational requirements for licensing in the following state  

• California  

PsyD/MBA Dual Degree Outlook & Outcomes

Potential careers.

• Organizational consultant
• Organizational psychologist
• Executive coach

Avg. Salary

mean annual salary of industrial-organizational psychologists

Industry Growth

Employment of industrial organizational psychologists is projected to grow 6% by 2030.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Recent Employers

• Integrated Leadership Consultants
• RSM Consulting
• Kaisen Consulting

Why Study Psychology and Business at Widener?

Gain real-world experience.

Here, you'll complement your classroom experience with on-the-job training. During a one-year field placement—often completed with Widener's Organizational Development Services  —you'll coach executives, conduct personality assessments, and drive clients toward greater leadership.

Engage with Faculty Mentors

You'll learn from leading practitioners and business insiders who understand what it takes to succeed in the field. Every step of the way, they'll drive you toward your own success. You'll feel their support as you prepare for life as a coach or consultant. 

Student Stories

"My clinical experiences made all of the difference for my first year. I felt confident and competent in my ability to succeed."

Davida Vogel

Business program highlights.

Best PsyD/MBA Dual Degree

Based on reputation, cost, course offerings, and flexibility. 

Ranked 11 out of 50

On the list of Editors' Choice 50 Best Accredited PsyD Programs for 2022

College of Distinction for Business

Recognized for top quality teaching and successful outcomes.

Top Online MBA in Health Care Management

Ranked top 10 online MBA program in health care management nationwide.

90%+ Five-Year Graduation Rate

for PsyD students

Our Faculty

Recent News

After COVID Hardships, PsyD Alumni Sponsor Hoods for Graduating Class

After trying final semesters during COVID-19, alumni from the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology offer their support for students through sponsoring doctoral hoods for each graduate.

Tilelli Leadership Fellowships Prepare Graduate Students for Careers in Higher Education, Organizational Development

The generosity of a Widener alumnus who served as chair of Widener’s Board of Trustees has made leadership fellowships possible for two graduate students. Students Danielle Davis and Joy Nissen are...

Widener Small Business Development Center Helps Launch Silvercare Health Center in Chester

Fueled by students with a passion for helping entrepreneurs thrive, Widener’s Small Business Development Center helped open Everest Urgent Care in Chester, part of the $42 million Silvercare Campus Project coming to the city.

Admissions & Aid

Our admissions and financial aid teams are here to support you every step of the way. Have a question?  Ask away!

Admissions Information

To begin your journey toward a PsyD/MBA dual degree, you will apply to the PsyD program first. If you maintain good standing in the PsyD program, you may apply to the MBA program during the second semester of your first year.

PsyD admission requirements:

• Complete online application and pay application fee through  PsyCAS .
• Please also pay the  supplemental Widener application fee . 
• Applicants must hold a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree from an accredited institution. A major in psychology is desirable, but not required.
• Transcripts are required from all attended institutions. A minimum GPA of a 3.0 is required; competitive applicants have a 3.5 GPA or higher.
• All entering students must have completed a course in statistics, abnormal psychology or psychopathology, and research design or experimental psychology by the time they matriculate in the fall.
• Personal character and attributes of emotional maturity and stability, as well as a capacity for relating to and working with other people, are also major factors in reviewing the credentials of applicants. Evidence for these attributes is sought from records of past performance, letters of reference, autobiographical statement, and work history.

Dual degree and MBA admission requirements:

We accept applications for the psychology and business dual degree program during the spring semester of the first year of the PsyD program. The application process includes:

• A review of the applicant's standing in the clinical psychology program.
• A short essay articulating a sound rationale for pursuing the dual degree.
• A consultation with the business school dual degree advisor. 
• An in-person interview with the director of the dual degree program. 

After applicants are accepted into the psychology in business program, they gain formal admission to the School of Business Administration by signing a release form to have their application materials copied and forwarded from the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology to the School of Business Administration.

We make every effort possible to accept all qualified individuals into the program. PsyD students rarely have difficulty being admitted to the School of Business Administration. Nevertheless, graduate student status in the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology does not guarantee admission into the psychology in business program. Throughout students' tenure in the program, they must maintain good standing in the clinical psychology program in order to take business courses.

The online application for the PsyD program opens September 15. An online application, including all supporting credentials, must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST, December 10  to be considered for acceptance into the program. All final admission decisions are made by April 1.  Supplemental Materials:

All supplemental materials must be submitted through the online PSYCAS (Psychology Centralized Application Service) system:

• 3 letters of recommendation
• Transcripts
• Optional scholarship essays

Interviews:

If you are selected as a top candidate for the PsyD program, you will receive an invite to one of four Admissions Interview Days, which will include an individual interview.

Widener transfer applicants follow the same application process as general applicants. After you apply, our admissions team will work with you to determine whether completed undergraduate and graduate coursework will count towards foundation/core courses that can be waived or substituted.

Up to one course may be waived per semester towards Widener's PsyD program. To be eligible, the waived course must be replaced with another elective. Waived courses do not count as advanced standing because the PsyD program does not offer advanced standing and is a five-year program.

Widener University serves as a "second home" for students from around the world. We are located just outside of Philadelphia and close to New York City and Washington, D.C.—offering many unique professional and personal opportunities to explore.

Want to know what it's like to be an international student on campus or need assistance navigating English proficiency requirements? We're here to help, and our international admissions director will support you through the application process. This support doesn't end with admissions—our International Student Support team will serve as a valuable resource throughout your Widener journey—meeting Visa/immigration requirements, getting acclimated to campus, and much more.

How to Apply as a Graduate International Student

• Complete your online application
• Submit your official transcripts from all college/university post-secondary institutions. A course-by-course credential evaluation completed by a NACES certified organization will be accepted if the transcript is not in the English language.
• Fulfill the English Proficiency requirements
• If you require an F-1 visa, you must provide written proof you have adequate funding available to meet the expenses incurred while studying in the United States

Learn more about applying as an international student

Financial Aid

Because Widener is a private institution, we're able to offer financial assistance that brings our education within reach for individuals who might otherwise not be able to afford it.

You might be surprised how much we are able to offer.

Getting started is easy. Simply apply to Widener and submit your FAFSA to be automatically considered for scholarships and grants. "FAFSA" stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and helps identify whether you are eligible for aid awarded by Widener, the government, and other sources. Our school code is 003313.

In order to receive a financial aid offer, students must meet certain  eligibility requirements . Here are the general eligibility requirements for most financial aid programs:

• Must demonstrate financial need
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
• Be enrolled or admitted for enrollment as a regular student in an eligible degree or certificate program

Learn more about applying for financial aid as a graduate student

Paths to Savings

Earn your second degree for free.

It's possible at Widener! Students enrolled in a PsyD dual degree program ONLY pay for PsyD tuition and a dual enrollment fee. That means the second degree is on us!

85% of Full-Time Grad Students Receive Aid

Simply  apply to Widener  and complete the financial aid process to be automatically considered for scholarships and grants. Because Widener is a private institution, we are able to offer financial assistance that brings our education within reach for individuals who might otherwise not be able to afford it. You might be surprised at how much we are able to offer in assistance.

Applying For Financial Aid as a Graduate Student

In order to receive your part of the financial aid pie, all you have to do is submit your FAFSA. "FAFSA" stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and helps identify whether you are eligible for aid awarded by Widener, the government, and other sources.

COMPLETE YOUR FAFSA 

Widener Scholarships

A limited number of university-based scholarships are made available to enrolled graduate students made possible directly from our academic department or thanks to the generosity of university donors. No extra steps are needed to be taken prior to admission. Once enrolled, contact your program director to learn more.

Graduate Assistantships

Widener offers a limited number of graduate assistantships to enrolled students. GAs receive tuition assistance for their work. Once you're a student, contact your program director for more information.

Employer Discounts & Tuition Reimbursement

Widener University also partners with many local organizations and corporations to offer discounted tuition and other incentives to their employees. Don't see your company on the list? Ask them to become a partner. In addition, employers often offer educational reimbursement benefits. We encourage you to explore these opportunities and will be glad to provide any necessary documentation.

Explore Our Employer Partnerships

20% Discount for Widener Alumni

If you graduated with a degree from Widener, you may qualify for a 20% tuition discount . The first step to see what you qualify for is to submit your application. Widener offers students many paths to savings, and while we don't offer "double discounts", we'll make sure you'll get the biggest financial benefit you're eligible for . Only students who have completed an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree are eligible. Students who have pursued a 4+1, 4+2, or 3+3 pathway, graduate assistantship, Widener-funded scholarship, or other tuition discount may not be eligible if the financial discount granted surpasses 20%.

Learn more about qualifying for an alumni discount

Program Cost

Clinical psychology (psyd), dual degree program fee.

Tuition rates are subject to change. Official costs for your first year will be determined at time of enrollment.

• More About Tuition & Financial Aid

Take the Next Steps

To visit Widener is, often, to fall in love with the place. To fit your timeline and schedule, we offer a variety of ways to get to know us.​

View Admissions Events

We offer a variety of virtual events to get to know Widener and meet with faculty and admissions staff.

Request Information

Have a question about Widener? Drop us a line and an admissions counselor will be in touch. We're always happy to help!​

All applications and supplemental materials are submitted through a centralized application service (CAS) system.

• Pay Application Fee

Get in Touch

Graduate admissions office.

Hyatt Hall 14th St Chester, PA 19013

• 610-499-4282
• [email protected]
• Graduate & Continuing Studies Facebook
• Graduate & Continuing Studies Twitter
• Graduate & Continuing Studies Instagram

Chris H. Grabert

Hyatt Hall Office #317

• 610-499-4283
• [email protected]

Jose Proenca

Quick Center Room 239

• (610) 499-4330
• [email protected]

• Twitter (X)

PhD/Master of Psychology (Clinical)

The UNSW combined PhD/Master of Psychology (Clinical) is a four-year, full-time degree that encourages initiative and originality in research. High-level candidates are offered the opportunity to engage in advanced training in areas relevant to the professional practice of psychology. 

Our program has a research component as well as coursework and professional placement components. Its focus is on the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of people with a range of psychological challenges. It includes advanced training in research skills that are particularly relevant to clinical application. 

A full scholarship is required to undertake this program.

Primary supervision must be provided by an academic who holds a position in the School of Psychology.

The minimum academic eligibility requirement is completion of a four-year APAC-accredited sequence in psychology, including a major research thesis/project, with Honours Class 1 (85%), or international equivalent. Qualifications must have been completed within the last 10 years (exceptions may be possible in limited circumstances).

While there is a standard process to apply for most Higher Degree Research programs at UNSW, there are additional requirements for Combined applicants which relate to the Masters component of the program.

Please review the  step-by-step application guide .

The School does not have specific requirements for a research proposal/research description. Applicants can be guided both by the general information published in the  Document Submission Guidelines  and advice from their potential supervisor.

Applicants must:

• demonstrate their competency in speaking and communicating in English is sufficient to practise the psychology profession
• satisfy both  UNSW's English language requirements  and those required by the  Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) .

All applicants, domestic and international, are encouraged to use AHPRA’s  Pathways diagram for all professions  (under ‘Additional resources’) to guide their understanding of AHPRA’s requirements.

• Term 1 is the only available intake for this program.
• Applicants should familiarise themselves with the  key scholarship dates , as deadlines are strict and a scholarship is required to undertake this program.
• International psychology qualifications must include a major research thesis/project and must be assessed by the  Australian Psychological Society (APS)  before an application is submitted.  Note that the APS will only assess complete qualifications.
• As the number of places available each year is limited, entry into this program is competitive. Selection is based on the availability of supervision, academic qualifications, two referee reports and performance at an interview. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an interview – remote participation may be permitted in limited circumstances.
• Enrolled students must register as provisional psychologists prior to program commencement and registration must be maintained for the duration of enrolment.
• Applicants should familiarise themselves with the relevant  registration standards  for the psychology profession. You must meet these requirements before an application for registration as a provisional psychologist can be approved.
• Applicants should review the inherent requirements of the program before applying.
• Applicants interested in BOTH a Combined program AND a stand-alone Master program OR a Combined program only must submit ONE research (Combined) application and ONE coursework (Master) application.

The program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) as a fifth and sixth year of study. Graduates are eligible to apply for full membership of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA).

Graduates are also eligible for Associate Membership of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. After completing a Psychology Board of Australia approved Clinical Psychology registrar program (further two years of full-time equivalent supervised practice), graduates are eligible to apply for APS College of Clinical Psychology Fellowship and endorsement as a Clinical Psychologist.

The UNSW School of Psychology is considered the best in Australia and is ranked among the top psychological schools worldwide. We attract award-winning staff and offer excellence and innovation in our teaching.   

The school has excellent research and professional training facilities that include extensive computing facilities, a psychological test library, a psychology clinic, a technical workshop and laboratories in all areas of experimental psychology.  

The school also has strong links with professional practitioners in the areas of clinical, neuropsychological and forensic psychology.  

There’s an increasing demand from a wide variety of agencies across Australia to obtain psychological expertise to aid understanding and management of psychological issues.  

Clinical psychologists work in a wide range of settings, including:  

• hospital settings 
• community mental health centres 
• acute inpatient clinics 
• private practices 
• universities and schools. 

Research component (PhD): Contact the Admissions and Scholarships team at the  GRS  or the  Postgraduate Coordinators  for the School.

Coursework component (Master of Psychology): Prospective applicants should review the School’s  Frequently Asked Questions ,  Program Guide , or  contact the School .

Learn more about our programs and connect with the UNSW School of Psychology.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Psychology?

Key Takeaways

• A PhD in psychology will open career opportunities in the fields of research psychology, psychotherapy, forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and even management consultancy.
• Psychology positions have a projected job growth of 6% over the next decade.
• Those who earn a PhD in psychology work in medical settings, government agencies, educational institutions, or in private practice.

If you’re passionate about building a successful career in psychology, earning a doctorate in psychology could get you there. For those who are passionate about the subject but wonder, “What can you do with a PhD in psychology?“, we’ll help you explore your options so you can decide whether a PhD in psychology is worth the shot. 

Featured Programs

With a PhD in psychology, you can pursue various career paths, including research psychology, psychotherapy, forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and even management consultancy. Alternatively, a doctorate also helps you pursue different areas of specialization within the field of psychology.

If you are considering a PhD degree in psychology, you’ve likely already earned your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. However, to progress further into the roles of research, academia, authorship, or lectureship, you have to take the next step. If you’re already employed in a field of psychology, earning a PhD helps you level up.

While a doctoral degree gears you up to become a licensed clinical psychologist, there are plenty of other career options to explore. Here’s a list of the most popular career pathways you can pursue with a PhD in psychology, along with their salaries and growth statistics.

Psychological Researcher

Psychological researchers, or research psychologists, deeply understand the human mind. Their primary duties include conducting experiments to test procedures to explore various aspects of psychology. This includes selecting candidates for clinical trials, administering tests, and carefully observing and documenting the outcomes of their research.

By the time they are done with PhD, psychological researchers are capable enough to review existing literature and contribute to scholarly discussions. Some may serve at universities, while others may work for hospitals or government agencies. If you’re passionate about research and writing, this might be a pretty lucrative field with tons of career opportunities.

• National average salary: $99,577 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 14% from 2018 to 2028

Clinical Director or Supervisor

The clinical director is one of the most highly paid yet growing careers in psychology . Clinical supervisors monitor psychologists and other mental health professionals to oversee the quality of clinical care provided. They establish best practices for the workplace and check whether the institution complies with regulations in the mental health field.

As a clinical director, you’ll serve in various settings, including mental health clinics, hospitals, universities, or even private practices. Also, these professionals arrange development opportunities for staff members, gather feedback from patients, and delegate cases to team members.

• National average salary: $120,761 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 28% from 2021 to 2031

Psychotherapist

Like clinical psychologists, psychotherapists support individuals with mental health conditions and help them live a fulfilling life. Unlike clinical psychologists, psychotherapists diagnose more general mental health issues. They closely monitor their client’s behaviors, emotions, and thoughts to develop specific treatment plans for them.

Additionally, they use different tools and therapeutic techniques to develop coping strategies for their patients and improve the way they regulate emotions. A PhD in psychology potentially makes you a perfect fit to deal with the complexity involved in psychotherapy. Ultimately, you understand your clients better to know where they’re coming from.

• National average salary: $115,281 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032  

Psychometrics Specialist

A psychometric specialist looks at assessments to gather information about a patient’s personality, symptoms, and cognitive abilities. They often join hands with mental health specialists to facilitate research or diagnose and treat patients. On top of that, these professionals play a key role in collecting data for research and ensuring its accuracy.

They use a combination of interviews, examinations, and standardized tests to gather data about a patient’s psychological state and decode it to help clinicians and researchers reach conclusions. As a psychometric specialist, you’ll work in research or educational institutions, clinics, government agencies, or independently as a consultant.

• National average salary: $62,264 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 6% from 2018 to 2028 

Human Resource Director

If you would rather work in an organizational setting, a PhD in psychology also helps build a mindset that prepares you to work in HR. HR directors are highly paid individuals responsible for shaping the recruitment and selection process in an organization. They create and implement corporate policies in areas like talent management, employee relations, and workplace culture.

With a PhD in psychology, you bring a deep understanding of human behavior, emotions, and motivation to the role. Plus, as an HR director, you can use the knowledge from your doctorate to develop thoughtful policies, systems, and resources to support employee well-being.

• National average salary: $116,601 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031

Marketing Director

With a PhD in psychology, you can also serve as a business or marketing director and build a fruitful career. Marketing directors use the knowledge of psychology to bridge the gap between relevant products and customers. Serving at multiple profit or non-profit sectors, these graduates contribute to public relations, management, and technical services.

As a marketing director, your background in psychology equips you with the right knowledge of consumer behavior and effective ways to communicate with them. This, in turn, helps you develop successful marketing campaigns that resonate perfectly with your audience.

• National average salary: $120,014 per year
• Growth: Expected to grow 10% from 2018 to 2028

Management Consultant

Management consultancy is another productive career path you can choose after a doctorate in psychology. Management consultants improve an organization’s efficiency, productivity, and performance. With a deep understanding of psychology, you can easily identify and deal with the underlying issues and patterns within your company.

Plus, management consultants provide feedback and recommendations on addressing employee and business management problems. They might also join hands with top-level management to devise practical solutions that align with the company’s core values.

• National average salary: $108,555 per year 
• Growth: Projected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032

Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychology is a rapidly growing field  that requires individual practitioners to obtain a state license. Psychologists in this field work closely with law enforcement to investigate crimes. For a license, you need to complete a doctoral degree from an APA-approved program and have clinically-supervised work experience.

Licensed forensic psychologists assist legal professionals with addressing the psychological aspects of the cases they’re dealing with. For instance, they conduct evaluations, assessments, and psychological testing to understand the case. Once they have come up with logical reasons, they present their findings and opinions to judges and juries.

• National average salary: $87,877 per year
• Growth: Expected to grow 6% between 2021 and 2031

Behavioral Health Specialist

As the name suggests, behavioral health specialists counsel and support individuals with behavioral or mental health problems. They use therapeutic techniques to help patients develop new behaviors and cope with their existing condition. Most importantly, they use their psychological knowledge to identify the root causes of their patient’s behaviors.

If you have a PhD in behavioral health, you can work with patients who have severe mental illness or developmental disorders like autism. The advanced degree helps you set developmental goals for your patients and implement evidence-based treatment plans to guard their well-being.

• National average salary: $54,663 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 9% between 2018 and 2028

Addiction Counselor

PhD in psychology also enables you to serve as an addiction counselor, where you support patients on their journey to recovery from addictive behaviors. Typically, addiction counselors guide through the rehabilitation process and help manage withdrawal symptoms. They often work together with medical professionals to effectively detoxify clients from drugs and alcohol.

In addition to one-on-one counseling sessions, addiction counselors arrange group therapy sessions. This provides clients with peer support and learning about new experiences and coping mechanisms. They monitor clients throughout the rehabilitation process till they finally achieve sobriety.

• National average salary: $65,310 per year
• Growth: Projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032

Prerequisites for Earning a PhD in Psychology

If you’ve made up your mind and want to earn a PhD in psychology, you’ll generally need at least a bachelor’s degree to get in. While some institutions may also require a master’s degree as a prerequisite, it largely depends on the program you’re opting for. Some universities offer combined master’s and doctoral degrees, so you get both degrees at once.

However, the most integral part of your PhD program is the area you’ve chosen. When applying, it’s recommended to thoroughly research the specialties the universities on your radar are offering. This isn’t just about coursework since the topics of your dissertation will also depend on your chosen concentration.

Plus, to make sure you quickly get through the admission process, it’s important to prepare for it beforehand. While the specific requirements depend on your university, here’s a list of some basic prerequisites when applying for a PhD in psychology:

• A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field
• A master’s degree (depending on the institution)
• Strong academic record
• Letters of recommendation
• Relevant research experience or coursework
• Statement of Purpose (SoP)
• Interview (as a part of the application process)

Benefits of Earning a PhD in Psychology

Even if you’re sure about earning a PhD in psychology, it’s best to take a look at the benefits to check whether they align with your future goals. While the time required to complete a PhD may be significant, the benefits you reap make it worthwhile. Here’s an overview of the pros of getting a PhD in psychology:

Obtaining a License

Earning a doctorate in psychology is the only path to practice independently as a licensed psychologist. A license allows you to diagnose and treat mental disorders and provide therapy sessions to clients.

Better Employment Opportunities

Many employers, including those in the educational sector, prefer PhD holders over candidates with a master’s in psychology . This is due to years of experience and practice acquired through a doctoral program. For instance, PhD holders are often preferred for faculty positions, research roles, and leadership positions.

Skill Development

PhD holders are seen as authorities in the field of psychology  and research. Through extensive training and coursework, PhD students develop advanced knowledge and skills in areas like research methodology, statistical analysis, and clinical assessments.

High Paying Positions

Doctoral degree holders in psychology are paid way higher than those with bachelor’s degrees. The difference in salary reflects the higher earning potential that comes with advanced degrees in psychology. For instance, candidates with a PhD may easily qualify for higher paying positions in academia, clinical practice, research, or consulting.

Related Questions

What do you learn in a doctorate program for psychology.

In a doctorate program in psychology, you dig deeper into the field of psychology. For instance, you study research theories and methods and do your own research for a dissertation. Most PhD programs also allow you to gain hands-on experience in real clinical settings through an internship program.

Where can you work with a doctorate in psychology?

Fortunately, you can choose from plenty of workplace options once you get your PhD in psychology. You may work as a psychologist in a clinic or even begin practicing privately. Some individuals with a doctorate serve at government agencies, hospitals, and even educational institutions.

How long does it take to get a PhD in psychology?

Generally, getting a PhD in psychology takes around 5-8 years , including some hands-on experience and a year-long internship. However, it’s worth noting that PhD programs are highly competitive. So, the earlier you prepare for your dream university for your psychology degree , the sooner you can secure a spot.

We hope we’ve adequately answered the question “What can you do with a PhD in psychology?” for you and you have more clarity about whether this is the right path for you. Whether you’re into clinical practice, research, or social service, a doctorate in psychology can accommodate your personal preferences if you pick the right area for yourself.