PsyD (Doctor of Psychology)

What is a PsyD?

Recognized by the American Psychological Association since 1973, the Doctor of Psychology or PsyD degree is the “scholar-practitioner” degree in the field of psychology, and is geared toward those who want to pursue a career in applied psychology. Unlike a PhD program, which focuses on research, the PsyD focuses on practical tasks such as clinical psychology, psychiatry, counseling, etc. It is similar to the PhD, however, in that it requires several years of rigorous study and research, so it is only for those who are deeply passionate about psychology and who want to devote their lives to practicing applied psychology in the field.

The PsyD takes slightly less time to complete than a PhD (approximately 4 to 6 years), and usually does not require a dissertation, which all PhD programs require. In place of the thesis, PsyD students usually complete residencies or internships, which provide real-world experience in applied psychology. In addition to their academic value, these residencies are also crucial resume-building and networking experiences.

How do I get into a PsyD program?

To get into a reputable PsyD program, you will need at least a Bachelor’s degree, and probably high scores on standardized tests. It helps (but is usually not required) to have majored in Psychology as an undergraduate. Without a college degree in psychology or in a related field, you should not apply for PsyD programs. That said, factors other than your major have a huge impact on your admissions chances. You will also need strong test scores, letters of recommendation from reputable people who know you well, and a writing sample. Most PsyD programs require applicants to take the GRE General Test, and many require the Subject Test in Psychology as well. You can find out average and/or minimum scores by contacting the admissions offices at your schools of choice. GRE scores are important, but in most cases your admissions committees will pay closer attention to your letters and your writing sample. Because PsyD students will be preparing for careers in practical psychology (and will therefore need both educational and professional experience), it is helpful to have letters from both professors and supervisors. For the same reason, undergraduate students interested in the PsyD should seriously consider completing internships or field placement before they graduate. The writing sample, required by most programs, should illustrate your prior experience in psychology or a related field, and your ability to conduct sophisticated research. Even though the PsyD is an applied degree, it is important to show that you can handle the theoretical side of psychology as well.

Completing Your Degree Online

Completing a PsyD online may be something to think twice about. Because of the prestige associated with the degree and the high-level medical positions granted to those who complete it, an online PsyD may be less valuable than one completed at a more traditional campus. Before enrolling in an online program, consider the fact that many of your competitors for jobs will have degrees from major research universities, which tend to be more appealing to employers. In addition, the personal face-to-face relationships with faculty can be the first critical stepping-stone in an aspiring psychologist’s professional networking process.

That said, there are those for whom an online PsyD is exactly the right option. Completing your degree online offers several distinct advantages, particularly the ability of online students to set their own schedule and work (within limits, of course) at their own pace. For people with busy working lives and/or families, the traditional modes of study for a doctoral degree are simply unavailable. Online classes make the degree a possibility, and so, it may be worthwhile for those who would otherwise be unable to pursue such a degree at all.

Advice for Prospective Students

Applying for a PsyD is not a decision to be taken lightly. You must have a well-developed sense of the field, an educational background that prepares you for extremely rigorous research, and a strong gut sense that this is the right career path for you. If you do not have these elements, you may want to consider completing a Master’s Degree if you haven’t already and/or gaining work experience in a related field so that you can develop your professional skills and learn more about your chosen career path before dedicating your time and resources to pursuing a Doctoral degree. It is also important to research on each individual program before you apply, since the process for completing the degree as well as the requirements for admission will vary widely from program to program.