Online Ph.D. Doctorate Degree in Psychology

What Can I Expect in an Online Psychology Ph.D. Program?

Ph.D. programs in psychology involve high-level psychology courses and research projects where the student identifies a problem or subject area they wish to investigate. Faculty are there to help and guide, but the research is completed by the student so they can become an expert on that subject.

While most of the study is independent, online psychology Ph.D. programs, as well as other types of online psychology programs include discussion groups and seminars with other students as well as one-on-one meetings.

Ph.D. students must also complete an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited yearlong psychology internship as part of the program in order to become licensed upon graduation. Typically, Ph.D. students are matched with internships through the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC).

What Are the Psychology Ph.D. Admission Requirements?

Psychology Ph.D. applications are subject to specific evaluation and application criteria. While specific requirements may vary between schools and programs, they typically include:

• A master's degree in an applicable subject
• Academic transcript copies
• Some schools may request GRE scores
• Recommendation letters from a university professor or other academic mentor
• A resume, especially if you have experience working in the psychology field
• A research proposal detailing the problem/gap area that you wish to investigate
• An essay covering a subject related to psychology
• Non-U.S.-based applicants may be asked to formally translate their qualifications for a U.S. academic audience
• If you are applying from a country that does not speak English as a primary language, you are required to provide certification through approved programs such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc.

What Is the Length of a Psychology Ph.D. Program?

Students take many years to complete a doctorate, usually as long as a bachelor's and master's degree combined – at the very minimum. They will often take much longer, though. As there is no set time limit for completion, you may work around a career in psychology, and your family commitments, and take breaks when needed. Generally speaking, a psychology Ph.D. program will take anywhere from 5 to 8 years to complete.

How Much Does a Psychology Ph.D. Cost?

The psychology Ph.D. is a terminal degree – meaning it is the highest level of qualification in any field. This means it will be more expensive than lower-level degrees. Psychology Ph.D. graduates also have the highest earning potential, which can offset the educational costs.

The average cost per year for public universities charging in-state resident students is $12,400. If you're from another state, the average cost is higher. International students are usually higher still. Private universities charge the highest at an average of $26,600 per year. However, they typically do not discriminate on grounds of locality – that is the cost to all students.

It is rare for students to fully fund their doctorate. Most programs are paid for through a combination of research grants and funding. Students will often be employed by the university as a lecturer or junior researchers to offset the cost of funding.

Scholarships are available, and some will cover the student's full living costs, research funding, and expenses associated with completing the degree.

List of Psychology Ph.D. Degree Programs

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

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

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.