How to Choose Between a Psy.D. and Ph.D.
There are two types of doctoral degrees in psychology: a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. Both prepare students for careers in psychology, but their goals and purposes differ.
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There are two types of doctoral degrees in psychology: a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. Both prepare students for careers in psychology, but their goals and purposes differ.
The Psy.D. applies psychological science to individuals and groups, while the Ph.D. emphasizes analytical research in the field. However, both Psy.D. and Ph.D. graduates can become clinical psychologists either in private practice or other settings, in academia as psychology professors, or as full-time researchers.
What’s the Difference Between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in Psychology?
Both a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in psychology train students for careers in psychology, but they tend to emphasize different aspects of the field.
A Psy.D. degree focuses more on clinical practice, preparing you to become a licensed clinical psychologist, while a Ph.D. trains you to conduct research, teach at the university level, or work as a psychotherapist. However, it’s important to note that plenty of Psy.D. professionals go on to teach at other Psy.D. programs, and many Ph.D. professionals pursue clinical practice.
| Factor | Psy.D | Ph.D. |
|---|---|---|
| The Basics | A Psy.D. is a doctor of psychology degree. | A Ph.D. is a doctor of philosophy. |
| Career Outcome | A Psy.D. can lead to careers as a licensed clinical psychologist, psychology professor, or psychology researcher. | A Ph.D. can lead to careers as a licensed clinical psychologist, psychology professor, or psychology researcher. |
| Degree Length | 4-6 years | 5-8 years |
| Program Focus | Direct application of psychology knowledge through work with clients and patients. | Research, statistics, and teaching preparation alongside theoretical and practical psychology knowledge. |
Employment Differences Between a Psy.D. and Ph.D. in Psychology
Employment for Psy.D. and Ph.D graduates is similar. They can become clinical psychologists or pursue careers in research or academia.
Graduates can pursue careers as clinical psychologists in private practice. They may also work as forensic and school psychologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment for psychologists will grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average growth rate of all occupations.
Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs build skills applicable to careers in clinical psychology, but they also train students to work with couples, families, or those with addictions.
Psy.D. programs and clinical Ph.D. programs emphasize clinical training and practice. Other Ph.D. psychology programs may hone the analytical and research methodology skills needed to work as psychological researchers and teachers. Researchers may work in government positions or within private organizations and companies. The BLS projects that the number of postsecondary teachers will grow by 8% in the next decade.
Education Differences Between Psy.D. and Ph.D. Programs
Ph.D. coursework combines the fundamentals of psychology, statistics, and applied research. Psy.D. coursework also includes these topics in addition to courses on human behavior and theories, and clinical practice.
It’s important to note that Psy.D. and Ph.D. course offerings may differ slightly, with Ph.D. programs typically emphasizing research and Psy.D. programs emphasizing practice.
Psy.D. vs. Ph.D. Curriculum
Both Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs explore aspects of psychology and human behavior as they relate to individuals and groups. Candidates learn to evaluate and assess the psychological needs of others and study human development and emotion across the lifespan. These doctoral programs also include coursework in the professional and ethical standards of clinical psychological practice.
Psy.D. Courses
- Advanced Psychotherapy: Coursework in advanced psychotherapy explores the major categories of mental health disorders and trains students to apply diagnostic categories and systems.
- Lifespan Development: A lifespan development class provides an overview of human functions from birth to death. Students study intelligence, social relationships, motor functions, personal identity, and related matters at various life stages.
- Psychological Measurements: Classes in psychological measurements introduce students to the fundamentals of psychological testing and assessment. Students learn how to administer and assess tests appropriately.
- Personality Assessment: Coursework in personality assessment trains students to identify objective personality measures in patients and clients. Psy.D. candidates learn to administer, score, and interpret results, as well as prepare clinical reports.
Ph.D. in Psychology Courses
- Quantitative Research Methods: Coursework in quantitative research methods gives students foundational knowledge of statistical and psychological theory and applications. Students learn mathematical modeling and data analysis as they relate to psychology.
- Qualitative Research Methods: This course teaches students methods for conducting empirical research by developing research questions used in focus groups, individual surveys, and observation.
- Psychology of Personality: A course in the psychology of personality includes information on theories of personality formation and development. Students learn methods to understand personality and how it relates to individual, group, and organizational processes.
- Psychological Tests and Measures: This course trains Ph.D. candidates in the theories and methods of psychological assessments and prepares them to evaluate, administer, and score tests and measures properly.
Ph.D. in Psychology & Psy.D. Courses
- Ethics for Psychologists: This class emphasizes the American Psychological Association’s code of conduct and state and federal regulations of the profession. Students gain insights into licensure requirements and learn how to work as efficient, ethical clinical psychologists.
- Multicultural Psychology: Multicultural psychology instructs students to recognize that social, economic, and cultural factors relate to human personality, behavior, and cognitive function. Coursework emphasizes research and clinical practice through a multicultural perspective.
Admission Differences
Admission to Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs includes similar requirements. Prospective students submit documentation from previous college coursework, along with any work experience and letters of recommendation. Both programs also often include written and oral components in the admissions process. Finally, learners may take into account a school’s GPA and/or GRE requirements when deciding which program best meets their needs.
| Requirement | Psy. D. Admission Requirements | Ph.D. Admission Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Is an admission essay required? | Yes | Yes |
| Does an applicant’s undergraduate degree need to be in psychology? | No, but preferred | No, but preferred |
| Minimum Degree Level Required | Master’s, perhaps bachelor’s | Master’s, perhaps bachelor’s |
| Minimum GPA for Admittance | 3.0-3.5 | 3.0-3.5 |
| Is previous work experience required? | No | No |
Ready to Take the Next Step?
When researching a Psy.D. or a Ph.D. program in psychology, students should take into consideration accreditation status, length of program, admission requirements, and available concentrations. A comprehensive look at Psy.D. vs. Ph.D. in psychology programs can help clarify which program is right for you.
Explore More About Psychology
Choosing the right psychology program also means considering career opportunities. Doctoral programs in psychology allow you to pursue clinical practice, professorship, or research roles with increased earning potential and the ability to make a significant impact in the field.
