Online Psy.D. Programs
A Psy.D. can open the door to academic, research, and leadership roles. If you want to develop advanced psychological assessment and clinical skills in a flexible learning environment, an online psychology doctorate program could be a good fit. Our guide introduces the top online Psy.D. programs with resources on how to choose the right program for you.
Online Psy.D. Programs for 2024
University of Arizona Global Campus
Chandler, AZ- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$13,280
- Out-of-state$13,280
- In-State$13,720
- Out-of-state$13,720
- Retention Rate31%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled40,362
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Our Ranking Methodology
Psychology.org ranks education programs using data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education. Our vetting process also includes a quality assurance team that assesses datasets for accuracy.
Psychology.org reserves the right to exclude any schools that lack significant data from the rankings to ensure accurate calculations. This list is for 2024. For more about how Psychology.org evaluates and ranks education programs, visit our full ranking methodology.
How To Choose an Online Psy.D. Program
When researching online Psy.D. programs, consider your budget, schedule, and career goals, along with the program’s admission requirements, accreditation, and program structure. Here are the top factors you should review when comparing programs.
Accreditation
Enroll in an accredited institution to earn an online Psy.D. degree. Accredited universities meet the highest standards for academic quality, and attending an accredited school means you’ll have more financial aid options.
Currently, the American Psychological Association (APA) does not provide programmatic accreditation to fully online psychology doctorate programs, so review the licensure requirements in your state to see if an online Psy.D. can lead to licensure.
Admission Requirements
Check the admission requirements for each Psy.D. program you’re interested in. Most programs require a master’s degree and professional experience in psychology, which can include a master’s practicum or internship. You may also need to take standardized tests and request letters of recommendation as part of the admission process.
Career Relevance
Keep your career goals in mind when researching Psy.D. programs. For example, an online psychology doctorate program may limit your licensure options, because the APA does not accredit fully online degrees. Make sure that each program on your list will help you reach your professional goals, whether that’s taking on clinical or non-clinical roles in psychology.
Flexibility
If you plan to work while earning your Psy.D. online, you’ll want to prioritize flexibility. Asynchronous classes, which do not require set meeting times, give you the greatest control over your schedule. However, synchronous classes with live sessions may offer a better fit for your learning style.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of an online Psy.D. program varies, and you’ll need to factor in textbooks, fees, and other expenses on top of the tuition rate. By attending an accredited institution, you’ll qualify for more forms of financial aid, including federal student aid programs and scholarships.
How To Apply to an Online Psy.D. Program
You’ve narrowed down your options and you’re ready to apply to a Psy.D. program. What happens next? This section walks through the steps you’ll take as part of the application process, including meeting prerequisites and putting together a competitive application.
- 1
Meet Education Requirements
Most online psychology doctorate programs require or prefer candidates who hold a master’s in psychology. You’ll need a master’s from an accredited institution. Graduate-level coursework aligned with your doctoral program will also help you demonstrate your preparation for a Psy.D. Many programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA in previous coursework.
- 2
Request Recommendation Letters
You’ll typically need 2-3 recommendation letters in your application. Strong letters of recommendation will make your application stand out, so think carefully about who to ask. Some programs request both academic and professional references. Giving your statement of purpose and other application materials to your letter writers can help them write stronger recommendations.
- 3
Take Standardized Tests
You may need to take standardized tests as part of your Psy.D. application. Programs that require a master’s degree typically do not require GRE scores, but you may need to submit English language test scores such as the TOEFL if you’re applying as an international student. Review the program’s requirements and allow time to take any required tests.
- 4
Complete Application Materials
Next, polish your application materials, including your statement of purpose, writing sample, and any other submissions. Your statement of purpose should showcase your preparation for a Psy.D. and your goals with your doctorate. Pay attention to application deadlines to submit your file on time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Psy.D. Programs
A Psy.D. degree can prepare you for licensure as a clinical or counseling psychologist. You can also pursue academic and research roles with a Psy.D. This degree focuses on applied psychology.
