Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs of 2024
BestColleges.com is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for BestColleges.com as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
The decision to pursue a doctoral degree is never easy: A lot of time, energy, and money are involved. But if you know what you’re getting into, an online doctorate in psychology can open up a whole world of cool career options.
For example, Dr. Erin Reynolds used her doctorate in psychology to become a clinical sports neuropsychologist. She’s now the director of Baylor Scott and White Sports Concussion Program in Texas, as well as the team neuropsychologist for the NFL Dallas Cowboys, the WNBA Dallas Wings, and the entire XFL minor league.
“I have a dream job treating professional and amateur athletes with sports-related concussions,” said Reynolds. “This type of work was not even on my radar when I started graduate school, and now I have a job that many people don’t even realize is a possibility.”
Doctorate in Psychology Programs You Should Consider
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
- Campus + Online
- In-State $20,800
- Out-of-state $20,800
- In-State $29,632
- Out-of-state $29,632
- Retention Rate 72%
- Acceptance Rate 96%
- Students Enrolled 19,861
- Institution Type Private
Saybrook University
- In-State N/A
- Out-of-state N/A
- In-State $20,856
- Out-of-state $20,856
- Retention Rate N/A
- Acceptance Rate N/A
- Students Enrolled 915
University of Arizona Global Campus
- In-State $13,280
- Out-of-state $13,280
- In-State $13,720
- Out-of-state $13,720
- Retention Rate 31%
- Students Enrolled 40,362
How We Selected These Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2024. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies
Why Should I Get an Online Doctorate in Psychology?
A doctorate in psychology can give you access to higher-paid clinical, research, and industry roles with more responsibility and impact. But given how expensive and demanding the process of earning a Ph.D. can be, it’s important to make sure the benefits support your personal and professional goals.
The decision to attend an online doctorate in psychology program may help you better meet these goals. Firstly, online programs provide flexibility and work-life balance , allowing you to attend classes from anywhere, potentially eliminating the need to take time off work or arrange childcare. Additionally, it offers cost savings as online programs often have lower tuition fees and eliminate expenses related to commuting, on-campus fees, and accommodations.
The American Psychological Association does not grant accreditation to doctoral programs that are exclusively online. So, if you want to work as a clinical or counseling psychologist, be sure to select a program that facilitates the supervised learning required for licensure. All of the programs in our rankings are fully accredited .
Is a Doctorate in Psychology Worth It?
Here’s what people who have earned a doctorate in psychology have to say:
“I absolutely believe my degree to be worth it. It has allowed me a seat at the table for so many relevant issues, like mental health, LGBTQ+ youth issues, social media addiction, and more. My knowledge and expertise is highly sought after, which means the return on investment has been high.”
— Corey Emanuel , Ph.D., media psychologist
“It was worth it for me. A doctoral degree massively impacts the way people interact with you as a professional. You become the authority on theory and practice; it’s a big responsibility. It has opened doors for me that I don’t think would have opened otherwise. I’ve had opportunities to work with corporations, on research, and with clients who were only interested in doctoral-level clinicians. And it’s often the case that doctoral-level clinicians are paid more by agencies or in private practice than the average masters-level clinician.”
— Kamran Esthehardi, , Ph.D., clinical psychologist
“I’d say it’s worth it for the sense of purpose and fulfillment you acquire. But financially, you may end up with substantial student loan debt and a moderate level of income – so it really depends on how you define ‘worth it’.”
— Christopher Stack , Psy.D, clinical psychologist
Popular Concentrations and Specializations for Doctorate in Psychology Programs
Doctoral programs in psychology offer many concentrations and specializations to cater to the diverse interests and career goals of students. These specialized areas of study enable you to delve deeper into specific aspects of psychology.
Popular concentrations and specializations for a doctoral program in psychology include:
- Counseling Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity
- Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
- Trauma and Disaster Relief
- Developmental Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Gerontology
- Behavioral Health Leadership
What Are the Benefits of a Doctorate in Psychology?
An online doctorate in psychology prepares you for the most advanced careers in the field: You can become a professor, researcher, practicing psychologist, or even branch out into industry roles.
“If you understand how people work, you don’t necessarily need to stay in the field of psychology,” said Dr. Inna Post , who leveraged her degree into coaching, consulting, and development. “You can expand.”
A doctorate in psychology can also help you gain entry into a number of niche, unexpected careers. Dr. Corey Emanuel , for example, got his Ph.D. in psychology with a concentration in media. He is now the CEO of his own creative production company.
“My career continues to be full of surprises in the best ways. On any given day, I’m approached by journalists, producers, studio executives, clinical psychologists, and even students who are seeking to better understand some psychological phenomenon linked to media consumption,” said Dr. Emanuel. “Being a media psychologist is a fascinating career choice.”
How Much Does an Online Doctorate in Psychology Cost?
The average annual cost of an online doctorate in psychology is $14,470 in tuition and fees or $38,300 total per year, including non-tuition expenses. If it takes you six years to complete your doctorate, you can expect to pay a total of $86,820 in tuition and fees and roughly $165,000 total.
Note: There are ways to reduce the cost of a doctoral degree:
- Graduate students may qualify for scholarships , grants, and fellowships .
- Some Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs may offer funding, tuition waivers, health insurance, and stipends.
- Many online programs offer accelerated degree programs , which can help you save on time and tuition.
Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Doctorate Degree
Public Institution
Private Institution
How Long Does an Online Doctorate in Psychology Take?
You can expect to spend between 5-7 years completing your doctoral degree in psychology.
Average Length of Time*
Required course credits*.
60-90 credits
*Varies depending on your school/program
Doctoral programs in counseling and clinical psychology will also require fieldwork and an internship or practicum experience . Online students can often arrange to complete these requirements at approved sites in their local communities.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Doctorate in Psychology?
Most programs require the following:
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
Everything Else You Need to Know About an Online Doctorate in Psychology Program
What can i expect from an online doctorate in psychology program.
First, you will need to choose between two types of online doctorate programs in psychology: a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) or a doctor of philosophy in psychology (Ph.D).
“I would say the Ph.D. is better for people interested in academia and research, while a Psy.D. has a stronger clinical focus,” said Christopher Stack, Psy.D. “But students should be aware that a Ph.D. program typically takes a bit longer – which may result in more student debt.”
Whichever path you take, you can expect to:
- Face a competitive application process
- Undergo four years of full-time coursework
- Sit for qualifying exams, usually between years two and three
- Complete a dissertation in which you design an original research project and report on your findings
- Complete an internship or practicum in the field
What courses will I take in an online doctorate in psychology program?
The curriculum is largely determined by specialization, but core courses for most programs include research methods, professional ethics, and human development.
Is a Psy.D. higher than a Ph.D.?
No. Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs are equally prestigious and well-respected, and both will qualify you for clinical practice. If you’re interested in research or teaching, a Ph.D. may prepare you better for those roles. If you’re interested primarily in a clinical career, a Psy.D. is a great option.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges.
Explore More College Resources
Organizational Psychology Careers
Are you interested in learning more about careers in Organizational Psychology? Click for information about opportunities at all levels of education. Start planning today.
by Staff Writers
Updated October 12, 2023
What Are the Different Types of Psychology Master’s Degrees?
Considering an advanced degree in psychology? Learn more about psychology concentrations and career paths to find an option that aligns with your goals.
by Matthew Arrojas
Updated September 12, 2024
Psychology Degree Program Guide
Online psychology degree programs prepare graduates for various career opportunities. Find details about psychology degrees and possible career paths.
by Gayle Morris, MSN
Updated July 8, 2024
Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs
AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Curious about human behavior, group dynamics, and abnormal psychology? A psychology degree sheds light on our social and emotional world. But if you want to become a psychologist, you’ll need a doctorate.
An online Ph.D. in psychology can prepare you for careers in counseling psychology, clinical psychology, school psychology, and other specialties. And an online learning format makes it easier to reach your educational goals. Learn how to choose a program and launch your career as a psychologist.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology Programs
Keiser university-ft lauderdale.
- Campus + Online
- In-State $19,808
- Out-of-state $19,808
- In-State $27,162
- Out-of-state $27,162
- Retention Rate 60%
- Acceptance Rate 97%
- Students Enrolled 20,330
- Institution Type Private
Liberty University
- In-State $14,791
- Out-of-state $14,791
- In-State $7,935
- Out-of-state $7,935
- Retention Rate 81%
- Acceptance Rate 50%
- Students Enrolled 93,349
Saybrook University
- In-State N/A
- Out-of-state N/A
- In-State $20,856
- Out-of-state $20,856
- Retention Rate N/A
- Acceptance Rate N/A
- Students Enrolled 785
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles
- In-State $11,160
- Out-of-state $11,160
- In-State $22,212
- Out-of-state $22,212
- Acceptance Rate 24%
- Students Enrolled 3,131
How We Rank Schools
Accredited Schools Online uses trusted data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools based on quality, affordability, and reputation.
When rankings schools, we look at factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition and other costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.
This list is from 2023. To learn more, consult our school rankings methodology.
Why Get an Online Ph.D. in Psychology?
- An online Ph.D. in psychology can qualify you for the title of psychologist in various specializations.
- Many psychology careers boast high median salaries.
- You can get a Ph.D. in psychology online from a great school, even if you live far away.
- Some institutions charge online learners in-state tuition rates, regardless of where they live.
- Asynchronous coursework makes it easy to schedule coursework around professional and personal responsibilities.
Did You Know…
Does Accreditation Matter for Online Ph.D. Programs in Psychology?
Accreditation matters when earning an online doctoral degree in psychology. That’s because you’ll have a better chance at landing an internship during your doctoral program if you attend an accredited program.
What’s more, states require psychologists to graduate from an accredited program to apply for licensure.
Here’s how college accreditation works: Independent accrediting agencies evaluate colleges and universities. They research student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic standards.
Programs within a university can also apply for accreditation from specialized agencies dedicated to the field. You can look up accreditation for a school or program.
When researching Ph.D. programs in psychology, look for programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). These programs meet the highest standards for training psychologists.
While APA does not accredit online-only programs , it does accredit hybrid programs and Ph.D. programs with some online coursework. APA’s accredited program database provides more information on accredited doctoral programs in psychology.
How Much Does an Online Ph.D. in Psychology Cost?
An online doctorate in psychology generally costs anywhere from $50,000-$200,000.
Ultimately, how much you spend on your degree will depend on factors such as:
- Whether you pursue a Ph.D. in psychology (which usually lasts 4-7 years) or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) (which takes roughly 4-6 years)
- Whether you qualify for any in-state tuition discounts
- Whether you attend a public or private institution
- How much financial aid you get
Be sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — with this, you can qualify for federal grants and loans. You could also qualify for institutional scholarships.
If possible, try to prioritize fully funded doctoral psychology programs.
In addition to tuition and required fees, you’ll need to budget for a good-quality laptop, reliable internet access, and any extra technology or distance-learner fees.
You’ll also need to pay for your state license and exam fees once you complete your program.
How Much Can You Make With an Online Psychology Ph.D.?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists earn a median salary of $92,740 per year . The highest-paid psychologists work in government agencies and hospitals.
Your specialization can affect how much you earn. For example, industrial-organizational psychologists earn a median annual salary of over $147,000, whereas child psychologists earn a much lower median salary, closer to $60,000.
Your location can also impact your earning potential as a psychologist. BLS data shows that Oregon and California offer some of the highest average salaries for psychologists.
Sources: BLS , Payscale
How to Become a Psychologist: 6-Step Guide
Becoming a psychologist requires years of graduate-level education and postdoctoral training. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to start your career as a psychologist.
Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree
Your journey toward a career in psychology begins with a bachelor’s degree. You’ll need a bachelor’s to apply to graduate programs in psychology.
A psychology degree offers a strong foundation for graduate-level study. You can also choose a specialized degree like industrial-organizational psychology or opt for a degree in a related mental health field such as social work .
Many majors — including in the humanities, the social sciences, education, and human services — can prepare you for psychology careers.
Step 2: Choose a Specialization
What kind of psychologist do you want to become? Are you interested in counseling roles or positions in education? Are you drawn to research topics or clinical practice?
Choosing a specialization early can help you find the best program to reach your goals.
Common psychology specializations include:
- Clinical psychology
- Counseling psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Behavioral psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Industrial-organizational psychology
- School psychology
- Health psychology
Step 3: Compare Online Doctoral Degrees in Psychology
Next, research online doctoral programs. Some psychologists move straight from a bachelor’s degree into a doctoral program, whereas others earn a master’s in psychology to strengthen their skills before applying to an online psychology Ph.D. program.
When researching graduate psychology programs, make sure to check the university’s accreditation status and the program’s accreditation.
As you compare programs, check whether they offer a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. Both degrees are doctorates in psychology, but a Ph.D. emphasizes research while a Psy.D. emphasizes practice.
You can earn a psychologist license and qualify for most roles with either degree. That said, a Ph.D. generally leads to academic and research roles, whereas a Psy.D. leads to clinical roles.
Consider as well your budget for a doctorate. Costs will vary depending on the program. Look into fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to lower costs.
Step 4: Earn a Doctorate in Psychology
Earning your doctorate in psychology takes a minimum of four years for a Psy.D. and up to seven years for a Ph.D.
During that time, you’ll take psychology courses and work closely with your faculty advisor to develop a dissertation project. You’ll also conduct research and gain clinical skills.
At the end of your online psychology Ph.D., you’ll defend your dissertation. Psy.D. programs may not require dissertation defense, but you will have to write one.
Common Courses in a Ph.D. in Psychology Online Program
- Advanced Qualitative Analysis
- Behavioral Assessment
- Clinical Practicum
- Developmental Psychology
- Ethics and Legal Issues
- Multivariate Statistics
- Psychobiology
- Psychopathology
- Survey Construction and Administration
Step 5: Fulfill Supervised Training Requirements
Before receiving your psychologist license, you’ll need to meet supervised training requirements.
Each state sets its own requirements, which you can meet during your doctorate or after graduating. For example, Washington state requires 3,300 hours of supervised experience, with the option to complete up to 1,500 hours after graduation.
Many psychologists complete this requirement as part of their doctoral program. Programs incorporate practicums, internships, and other supervised training opportunities. In some states, you can also meet supervised experience requirements through a postdoc or postgraduate internship.
Check the licensing requirements in your state for more information.
Step 6: Apply for Licensure
The final step to becoming a psychologist is to apply for a state license.
In many states, the Board of Psychology issues these licenses. Typically, you’ll need a doctorate in psychology from an accredited program, supervised experience, and passing scores on a licensure exam.
Aspiring psychologists in all states must take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). You may have to take additional exams, depending on what state you live in. For example, most states require a state jurisprudence exam, which tests applicants on their knowledge of state laws applicable to psychology practice.
Exam and licensure costs vary by state. In New York, you’ll pay $294 for your initial license , while in Pennsylvania it costs $105 for an initial license and $300 to renew your license.
Q&A With a Real Psychologist and a Psychology Student
Q: why did you decide to pursue a career in psychology.
“I have always had a strong passion for helping others, and this drive led me to this field. It was after working as a behavior specialist doing in-home behavioral therapy that solidified my decision to pursue a career in psychology.”
“I wanted to ease people’s suffering and make sure there were supports in place for those who needed them. Moreover, I had negative experiences with the mental health system as an adolescent, and I wanted to ensure that those experiences weren’t repeated for other people.”
Q: In your opinion, what is the value of earning a doctorate in psychology?
“You are in a position to help individuals and our larger society. Along with providing direct treatment, you have credentials that allow you to advocate for systematic changes. You can advocate in a variety of ways, such as through assessments, creating community-based programs, and activism in legal arenas.”
“If I chose to do a master’s program, I don’t believe I would have had as many opportunities, and master’s-level clinicians tend to not make as much as doctorate-level clinicians/providers.”
Q: Why did you choose to earn a Psy.D. instead of a Ph.D. in psychology?
“I chose a Psy.D. program as opposed to a Ph.D. as my program really emphasizes putting what we learn in classes to practice in our practicum sites. I also did not want to attend a program so heavily focused on research.”
“I didn’t just look at program types, but also at the faculty I wanted to work with. Both types of programs can offer similar training experiences, but having the right mentor whose research or interests aligns with yours is a key part of a successful graduate school experience.”
Q: What is something that surprised you about your psychology program or the field of psychology?
“How much we don’t know! While the field is improving on its ability to replicate research and evaluate treatment effectiveness, we don’t fully understand how and why individuals react, or don’t react, to popular interventions.”
“As a trainee, I was shocked to see what goes into being a great practitioner and having only a fraction of the work put in get rewarded. This is a selfless job and career, and the needs of those we help must always be a priority.”
Q: What is your biggest piece of advice to those who want to become psychologists?
“Listen to the people who come to you for assistance and be mindful of social and political influences on mental wellness. Many individuals will not benefit from standardized interventions, particularly those from historically oppressed communities. We need to listen when people tell us what is, or is not, working for them and be open to other ways of healing.”
“Impostor syndrome is REAL! There will be many times in your training that you feel like you don’t belong or that you’re not as good as those around you, but this is not true! You belong in this field and are just as good as anyone around you — just don’t forget the reasons why you’re here!”
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs in Psychology
What can i do with an online ph.d. in psychology.
An online Ph.D. in psychology from an accredited program meets the requirements for a psychologist license. That means you can work in roles such as counseling psychologist, school psychologist, or clinical psychologist.
With a doctorate in psychology, you can also pursue academic and research careers. Most universities require a doctorate for tenure-track professor jobs.
Before applying to online psychology programs, check the program’s accreditation status. Only accredited programs meet the requirements psychology licensure and employment.
Is an online doctoral degree in psychology credible?
Yes, an accredited online doctoral degree in psychology meets the same high standards as those of traditional degrees. Accreditation agencies regularly review programs to ensure they follow the best practices for training psychologists.
Employers also respect online degrees from accredited institutions. Many online universities issue the same diplomas to online and in-person students, indicating that the delivery method does not impact the quality of the degree.
How long does it take to earn a Ph.D. in psychology?
Earning a Ph.D. in psychology generally takes 5-7 years. During that time, psychology doctoral students complete coursework, attend practicums and internships, and conduct research. Doctoral programs also require a dissertation, which doctoral candidates must defend to earn their Ph.D.
Psychologists can practice with a Psy.D. as well. This doctoral degree emphasizes practice and typically requires 4-6 years. During a Psy.D. program, you’ll complete coursework, write your dissertation, and gain hands-on experience through supervised practicums and internships.
What is the main difference between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in psychology?
A Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in psychology are both doctoral degrees; however, the Psy.D. emphasizes practice and prepares graduates for careers in clinical settings, whereas the Ph.D. focuses on research and typically leads to roles in academia or research.
You can become a psychologist with a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. — both degrees meet the requirements for a psychologist license. If you’re interested in academic career paths, a Ph.D. makes the most sense, while a Psy.D. makes more sense if you want to work in a clinical capacity.
Can psychologists specialize?
Yes, psychologists can specialize. At the graduate level, psychology students typically choose a specialty, such as clinical psychology, school psychology, or counseling psychology.
Other popular specializations include educational psychology, health psychology, behavioral psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology.
After choosing a specialty, you’ll take focused courses and complete hands-on training in clinical settings related to that specialty. Choosing a specialty early on can help you find the right doctoral program for you.
Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024
Online Ph.D. programs provide students with flexible schedules and affordable tuition. Check out the top-ranked programs in this comprehensive guide.
Best Online Psychology Courses and Programs of 2024
Best Accredited Online Master’s in Psychology Programs