affordable online phd psychology

25 Most Affordable Ph.D. in Psychology (Psy.D.) Grad School Programs

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Updated: November 19, 2024 , Reading time: 14 minutes

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Data Points:

• Majority (28%) of psychologists * are self-employed workers. About 27% work in elementary and secondary schools. Ambulatory healthcare services hire 21% of psychologists. The rest (12%) work in the government and state, local, or private hospitals.
• About 41% of graduates with a doctorate in Psychology ** are practicing psychologists in 129 different occupation categories.
• Psychology doctoral degree holders make *** roughly $30,000 more than master’s degree holders each year.

Psychology is one of the most fulfilling and interesting fields . However, it can also be one of the most expensive. 

With affordable online doctoral programs in Psychology, many professionals will now have opportunities to return to school without compromising their personal and professional obligations. In terms of learning format, completing a doctorate in Psychology doesn’t have to be complicated and daunting. 

With numerous affordable online programs available, completing an online doctoral program in Psychology is now convenient and easy !

Quick audio summary:

Methodology.

After successfully completing a Master’s in Psychology from a top-rated graduate school, a doctoral program is the next usual route. Doctorate programs are typically costly, and finding the best, least expensive programs that meet your requirements can be a lot of work! 

Our writers and research team at GradSchoolCenter.com scoured our sources to bring you the definitive list of the 25 Most Affordable Ph.D. in Psychology Grad School Programs. In random order, this list features the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program types.

These features characterize our Most Affordable Ph.D. in Psychology Grad School Programs:

• Classes are delivered either 100% online or through the hybrid format 
• Numerous internship opportunities and professional networks
• Comprehensive curricula and rigorous coursework and training for career options and specializations
• Financial aid opportunities and online support and student services
• High student rating
• Recognition from industry-recognized resources
• Accreditation and adherence to the highest academic standards

Most Affordable Ph.D. in Psychology (Psy.D.) Grad School Programs

Regent university.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Online Ph.D. in International Psychology

Regent University offers an online Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies that has received accreditation from the APA . The program offers several concentrations, each taught by award-winning faculty.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago School’s International Psychology Ph.D.  takes approximately three to four years to earn. Aside from coursework completion, students participate in hands-on learning. As a result, they will accomplish two mandatory 9-day international Field Experiences at an international venue chosen by the program. 

Capella University

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Online Ph.D. in Psychology

Capella University is completed through the university GuidedPath program, which requires students to complete a more structured learning in a cohort-based model. The instructors will set the schedule, and students will meet their deadlines accordingly.

Touro University Worldwide

Los Alamitos, California

Online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology

TUW’s PhD in Human and Organizational Psychology is a unique program that can be completed within three years. Some of the unique aspects of this program include no residency requirements for graduation and no GRE for admission. The program doesn’t have the educational credentials that lead to licensure.

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, Arizona

Online Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology

GCU’s online PhD in Psychology programs offers a General Psychology track with various qualitative and quantitative research concentrations. The courses for this program generally have an 8-week duration except for dissertation courses. GCU’s coursework completion is primarily aimed toward non-traditional learners. The online doctorate program doesn’t lead to licensure.

Meridian University

Petaluma, California

Online/Hybrid Ph.D. in Psychology

Meridian’s Ph.D. in Psychology degree program offers an online/hybrid learning format that is perfect for students who want to accomplish the academic requirements for licensure in the state of California, specifically for psychologists, MFT licenses, and the state of California’s licensed professional clinical Counselors. In addition to online coursework, students must complete a total of six residencies are required to graduate from the program. 

Walden University

Walden’s online PhD in Psychology may require students to 4 Ph.D. residencies on top of their online coursework and other doctorate requirements. This is one of the top choices for applicants who want to pursue a doctorate in Psychology without a master’s degree in Psychology. Students can choose either the bachelor’s or master’s level entry.

University of South Dakota

Vermillion, South Dakota

Ph.D. in Psychology – Clinical Psychology

USD’s APA-approved Ph.D. in Psychology is not offered entirely online. However, it does give students enough flexibility, allowing them to graduate in as long as eight years. Students in the Clinical Psychology program have a mandatory one-year pre-doctoral clinical Psychology internship at an approved clinical facility or site.

Fielding Graduate University

Santa Barbara, California

Online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Fielding’s affordable 179-semester credits online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology can be earned in five to six years. Depending on the student’s preference, they can either complete the program in a synchronous or asynchronous format. 

California Coast University

Santa Ana, California

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology

Just ranging below $500 per credit tuition, it’s more affordable and easier to earn doctorate studies at California Coast University. For students who are working, they can ask their respective employers if they offer tuition reimbursements. Also, CCU offers affordable, interest-free payment plans that are suitable for every student’s budget and preference.

Adler University

Online Doctor of Philosophy – Industrial and Organizational Psychology

Adler’s 100% online PhD in Psychology is a 100% online program completed in a cohort-based model. The 90-credit-hour program comes without a residency requirement, and Ph.D. applicants may accomplish a set of prerequisite coursework before enrolling in the full program.

Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Liberty’s online doctoral program in Psychology offers 8-week online courses that allow students to accelerate their degree and earn it in four years. The courses of this program are taught from a Christian worldview. Students will be able to master psychiatric research and writing techniques for human behavior study by completing dissertation research.

Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Ph.D. in School Psychology

The APA-approved Ph.D. in School Psychology at CMU is designed on a scientist-practitioner model and focuses on the application of behavioral science. Students can complete their doctorate degrees in five years of rigorous academic preparation as well as field experience. It also includes a one-year full-time internship program.

Keiser University

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

The 60 credit hours online Psychology doctorate at Keiser is offered is offered in two paths in prerequisites for major courses. For Path One, students can enroll in the program with a master’s degree, while Path Two is for students who only have a bachelor’s degree before enrollment.

Loyola University of Chicago

Online Ed.D. in School Psychology

LUC’s affordable online School Psychology Ed.D. is open for applicants with a valid Professional Educator License in Illinois or a school Psychology license from another state. The online doctorate program requires 72 credit hours for degree completion. 

Sofia University

Palo Alto, California

Online Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology

This online doctorate program is a low-residency program that allows students to tailor their learning experience by choosing a field of interest. The 75-credit-hour online doctorate program requires off-campus seminars in Northern California held two times per year. Students must take note that this doctorate program isn’t a clinical degree program.

The University of Arizona Global Campus

San Diego, California

Online Doctor of Psychology

UAGC’s online 62-credit hour Doctor of Psychology consists of ten core required courses, seven specialization courses, and a capstone requirement. As a culminating requirement, students must complete the Applied Doctoral Project. UAGC offers a 3 Week Trial without any financial risk.

National University

National University has a web-based 60-credit hour online PhD-PSY program that equips students with critical thinking, knowledge, and research methods, preparing them for leadership roles in the field. However, this program doesn’t train and prepare students to become licensed professional counselors. 

California Southern University

Costa Mesa, California

CSU’s affordable online Doctor of Psychology program is designed for those who want to become a professional licensed clinical psychologist. This is a 66-credit-hour program that can be completed entirely online. For an internship, the program offers an optional course since it will depend on the student’s state requirements.

Alliant International University

Online Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology

AIU’s Educational Psychology is a 50-credit hour program that spans 11 terms. The program is offered completely online and asynchronously, allowing students to tailor their degrees according to their schedules. The online doctorate program, available for Fall enrollment, offers an 8-week term course on School Psychology for certified or licensure students and School Counseling for master’s degree holders.

Saybrook University

Oakland, California

Saybrook’s Ph.D. in Psychology, which can be completed in five to six years, provides students with the opportunity to tailor their degrees according to their interests. Despite its 100% online doctorate program, students have mandatory residential conferences to participate in San Francisco.

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, Texas

Online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology

TTU’s hybrid Educational Psychology doctorate is open for applicants with Psychology, health sciences, human sciences, sports sciences, and education backgrounds. The program prepares students for academic roles and teaching, with 91 credit hours required for graduation.

William James College

Newton, Massachusetts

PsyD in Leadership Psychology

William James College offers an online Psy.D. in Leadership Psychology, a four- to six-year program that covers adult development, team and group development, Psychology of leadership, followership, and more. Students complete the program independently, with a four-day residency requirement.

Felician University

Rutherford, New Jersey

Doctorate of Counseling Psychology

The 88 credits Psy.D. program at Felician focuses on developing competencies in professional Psychology, aiming to produce entry-level health service psychologists. Students must complete three years of APA internships and practicums. The program also includes a doctoral internship, which can be one-year full-time or two-year half-time. 

Pacifica Graduate Institute

M.A./Ph.D. in Depth Psychology

This 90-credit hour doctorate in Psychology is designed for students who want to explore archetypes, universal principles, and psychological transformation. This program offers practical insights for personal and professional lives, fostering healing, transformation, self-expression, creativity, and consciousness development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to obtain an affordable online doctoral degree in psychology program.

Doctoral degrees in Psychology involve fieldwork, internships, research work, and residency. A dissertation is mandatory and often requires a full-time commitment. A doctorate is usually completed within six or seven years, depending on the student’s level of commitment and number of transfer credits. 

Cohort-based programs are faster and have shorter durations but heavier course loads. Some schools have longer timeframe limits, allowing students to complete their degrees up to eight years. The same applies to master’s in Psychology programs that you need to earn to pursue a doctorate. Certain Master’s in Psychology programs can be completed at a faster duration than most , depending on the curriculum.

What are the specializations available in a Doctoral degree in Psychology program?

The specializations in a Psychology doctorate can depend on what type of degree you’re pursuing. 

• EdD: suitable for professionals who want to pursue careers as consultants, teachers, and mentors in Psychology.
• PhD: aimed at students who want to become proficient in Psychology as a researcher or professor.
• PsyD: suitable for students who want to pursue careers in clinical settings.

Some of the concentrations available under the doctorate in Psychology program include:

What professional organizations promote the field and profession of Psychology?

Yes, there are several professional organizations for Psychology doctorate holders. The following organizations offer specializations, networking and professional development opportunities, and access to various resources for Psychology education and mentorship.

• American Board of Professional Psychology
• American Psychiatric Association
• American Psychological Association
• Association for Psychological Science
• National Association of School Psychologists
• Society of Neuroscience

Why is a Doctorate degree important in Psychology?

A doctorate degree is important in Psychology for multiple reasons. 

• It provides you with a higher level of knowledge and skills for better patient care.
• It allows you to provide clinical supervision, consult with organizations, teach in universities, and conduct research.
• It allows you to concentrate in higher-paying Psychology fields. 

Key Takeaways

Affordable online Ph.D. programs in Psychology offer convenient, affordable options for those concerned about expenses . Many programs charge students a lot less than others, without compromising the quality of doctorate education they offer. Also , Psychology doctorate programs provide scholarship options to qualified candidates. In terms of ROI, Psychology offers excellent career options ! With your online doctoral degree and extensive experience, you are poised for top-shelf Psychology careers with exceptional earning opportunities .

Additional Resources:

• MOST COMMON COUNSELING JOBS AND SALARIES
• STRESS MANAGEMENT COUNSELING: AT-HOME TIPS, TECHNIQUES, AND MORE
• BEST DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE SCHOOLS

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20 Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Written by Janice Monti | Edited by Victoria Hudgeons | Last Updated May 2024

A doctorate is the highest-ranking degree in psychology. An online doctorate offers a flexible pathway to high-paying and advanced careers in clinical, teaching, and research settings. Explore our rankings to learn about accredited online psychology doctorate programs and the advantages of pursuing this degree.

Popular Online Psychology Doctoral Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Ph.D. in Psychology 2020

1. liberty university.

Liberty University’s Ph.D. in Psychology – Industrial/Organization Psychology is a 60-credit-hour degree program that is delivered entirely online. Through this program, students acquire training in the study of human behavior in organizations and for the workplace, preparing them to make a difference in their professional careers. Program graduates can hold several different positions, including independent consultant, researcher and writer, and organization mentor or consultant positions. During this program, students will take courses such as Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview, Teaching of Psychology, and Theories and Research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Liberty University is located in Lynchburg, VA, but the university educates students all over the world with its online education programs. Liberty first began its online program in 1985, and with the evolution of the internet, the university offered Christian college degree programs online in 1999 and 2000. Today, Liberty offers degree programs entirely online. With its eight-week-long courses, students can quickly progress through their degrees, and students may transfer up to 15 credits toward their programs. Liberty doesn’t just make education accessible; the university also makes education affordable and has frozen tuition rates for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past four years.

Format: Online

2. Regent University

Regent University offers a Doctor of Education – Educational Psychology program that prepares students to hold leadership positions. Program graduates may go on to work as university faculty, curriculum, and instruction specialists, and even as school district administrators. Students progress through this 66-credit-hour program in eight-week-long course sessions. They will learn about topics such as how to create environments conducive to learning, the psychological background of learning, brain research, teacher education, and more. This program is offered online, making it ideal for students who may have professional and family obligations to balance while earning their degrees. Founded in 1978, Regent is a Christian university located in Virginia Beach, VA. The university consists of seven schools and two colleges and offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students average 36 years of age and may study on a full-time or part-time basis. In addition to the university’s on-campus and online programs, students may also pursue study abroad opportunities in Russia and other locations. Regent students have gone on to be recognized as Teacher of the Year more than 850 times, and the U.S. News & World Report recognized Regent as having the fourth-best online graduate education programs in 2019.

3. Loyola University Chicago

At Loyola University Chicago, students can pursue an Ed.D. in School Psychology degree that’s delivered in a blended format. Students will take online blended-format courses during the fall and spring semesters, then take blended online or on-campus courses during the summers. Students enter and progress through the program in cohorts, which creates a supportive environment. During their study, students can expect to take courses such as Evidence-Based Interventions, Communicating Research Findings, Substance Abuse Counseling, and Family Therapy. Students enrolled in this degree program also have the opportunity to earn additional Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Illinois certifications, giving them increased value for their education. Located in Chicago, Loyola University Chicago was founded in 1870 as St. Ignatius College. Today, over 17,000 students attend the university, which is one of the largest Jesuit, Catholic universities in the country. The university has four campuses, including the John Felice Rome Center in Italy, and offers more than 80 undergraduate majors, 80 minors, and 170 graduate, professional, and certificate programs. These degrees and programs are offered across the university’s 14 schools, colleges, and institutes, and Loyola is staffed by more than 4,000 faculty and staff. The U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Loyola among the top national universities, and this university is one of just 8% of American institutions to have a Phi Beta Kappa honor society.

4. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program that prepares students for psychology degrees working with diverse populations. Program graduates will be ready for a variety of positions, including a psychotherapist, faculty member, consultant, researcher, and administrator roles. This program is offered in a blended format, with students spending three years in residence at the university’s Northern Kentucky campus. Students will take face-to-face courses offered on weekends once a month as well as courses online in the traditional full-semester format. Students also enroll in nine credit hours during their pre-doctoral internship year. Program graduates go on to work in many different settings, including private practice, social services, hospitals, and universities. The University of the Cumberlands has campuses in both Williamsburg and Florence, KY. Founded in 1888 as the Williamsburg Institute, the university became the University of the Cumberlands in 2005. Today, more than 11,000 students attend the university, and the residential student body represents 36 different states. The University of the Cumberlands offers both associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as executive master’s degrees and education certifications. More than 9,000 graduate students attend the university each year. This liberal arts university challenges students to discover, engage, analyze, and evaluate throughout their education and careers.

5. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University’s Ph.D. in Educational Psychology degree program is a hybrid program that prepares students to teach in colleges or universities or to enter into research positions. The program is offered in a face-to-face format, but some coursework is also provided online. Students also attend one-week-long intensive summer sessions on campus. This is a 91-credit-hour program, though students may transfer up to 30 hours of coursework that they’ve completed in the last seven years; students must have earned a B or better in transferrable coursework. Students are encouraged to start this degree program in the fall semester, though applications are accepted and considered throughout the entire year. Texas Tech offers a variety of scholarships and research assistantships to help students afford their education.Located in Lubbock, Texas, Texas Tech was founded in 1923. In the fall of 2018, more than 38,000 students were enrolled at Texas Tech, including 5,835 graduate students. Students can choose from more than 150 undergraduate, 100 graduate, and 50 doctoral degree programs. In 2017-2018, over 1,300 students also decided to study abroad through one of the many opportunities offered. The university’s College of Education produces approximately 500 new teachers every year and has a 100% teacher certification pass rate. Over 2,200 students pursue degrees through the College of Education, which offers two bachelor’s, ten master’s, and nine doctoral degree programs.

6. The University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin’s Ph.D. Program in Psychology is a unique program that allows students to take various paths in completing their doctoral degrees. Most students enter this program with a bachelor’s degree, while some have already earned a master’s degree from another university. Some students earn a master’s degree while progressing toward their doctorate, but other students only receive their doctorate. Students may choose to specialize in Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Science, Social Psychology, Evolutionary Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and more. The program consists of courses, seminars, reading, and research, and students must complete the degree within seven years of beginning the program. Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest research universities in America. Over 51,000 students attend the university, where they learn from 3,000 teaching faculty. The university encompasses 18 colleges and schools, and the student body represents all 50 states. At UT Austin, students can choose from 156 undergraduate degree programs in more than 170 fields of study, as well as 237 graduate and doctoral degree programs. The university also offers 400 study abroad programs.

7. Michigan State University

At Michigan State University, students can pursue a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology degree in a hybrid format. This program is designed to educate and prepare educational leaders who have a deep understanding of how learning and development theories can affect and transform learning environments. Students complete the majority of this five-year program online. Students who can take leave from their jobs can elect to spend one semester fulfilling residential coursework. Graduate assistantships and fellowships may be available during that on-campus semester to help students afford their education. Program graduates will be prepared to assume leadership roles in a variety of educational environments, including in K-12 schools, virtual schools, higher education systems, and community colleges. MSU was founded in 1855 as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan. Today, the university educates over 50,000 students each year. More than 5,700 faculty and academic staff help to provide the quality education that MSU is known for. The university offers over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional study programs. Students can also choose from over 275 study-abroad programs through 60 countries. The U.S. News & World Report has recognized MSU as being among the top universities in the nation; MSU is ranked No. 85 among the top-100 universities in the country and No. 35 among the top public universities in the country.

8. Duquesne University

Duquesne University offers a Psy.D. in School Psychology program that provides students with a comprehensive psychology education. Students learn the nuances of evidence-based practices, but they also learn how to account for local contextual variables when they apply these practices in an education setting. During this 91-credit degree program, students study and address an applied-practice problem during a year-long Applied Project. Program graduates are eligible to become licensed for independent practice. This program prepares students to work in settings, including schools, hospitals, and child agencies or clinics. Among other requirements, program applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their undergraduate work and must submit a letter of interest, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. Located in Pittsburgh, Duquesne University was founded as a Catholic college in 1878. The university has grown to serve nearly 9,500 students each year and is the only Spiritan university in the country. Duquesne offers a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing students to receive personal attention from their faculty throughout their education. About half of the classes have just 20 or fewer students, which further allows faculty to engage with students. This university has also received recognition for the quality of the education it offers. The U.S. News & World Report ranked Duquesne No. 11 in its national Catholic universities ranking and No. 40 in its Best Value Schools ranking. Additionally, the U.S. News & World Report also ranked Duquesne as No. 80 in its Best Colleges for Veterans category.

9. Felican University

Felician University’s Doctor of Counseling Psychology program is available on campus, as a hybrid program, or entirely online. The program is intended for students who wish to become entry-level health service psychologists, and program graduates are also eligible for licensure in New Jersey. During the program, students complete a one-year full-time internship or a two-year half-time internship. Students will take courses such as Cognition and Affective Basis of Behavior, Statistics for Psychology, Psychometrics, and Management of Professional Practices. Students can join the program in the fall semester and can complete the degree within four to five years. The Felician Sisters founded Felician University in 1942. Today, the university is the only Franciscan university in New Jersey. This co-educational liberal arts university educates about 2,300 undergraduate, graduate, and adult-studies students each year. The university has campuses in Rutherford and Lodi, NJ, and the National Register of Historic Places recognizes the Castle on the Rutherford campus. Felician University offers more than 55 majors, minors, and concentrations across its four academic schools. Students enjoy a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized support from faculty. Additionally, 73% of classes have fewer than 20 students.

10. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology with an Emphasis in Cognition and Instruction degree program prepares students to work with diverse populations. The program follows a research-based approach, and students explore the principles of learning in both theory and practice. Students begin working on their dissertation in the very first course of this 60-credit-hour program. The program is available online, which allows students to continue working while pursuing a degree. These online courses frequently begin, allowing students to begin their education without delay. Working professionals who prefer to learn in-person can also take GCU’s evening programs, which are held one night per week.GCU was chartered in 1949 and is a private Christian university with campuses in Phoenix and Northwest Phoenix. Today, GCU offers online degree programs for working professionals, and more than 70,000 students have pursued these online degrees so far. Students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees online in fields including education, business, liberal arts, and nursing and the health sciences. Students may also choose to pursue degrees offered in hybrid formats, combining online learning with in-person education. GCU has offered these online programs for over a decade.

11. Touro University Worldwide

Students who enroll in the Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology program through Touro University Worldwide can complete the program entirely online with no residency requirements. Students can focus on three areas: Organizational Psychology, Leadership Psychology, or Industrial Psychology. They can also complete a dissertation in an area of their choosing. Program applicants must have a master’s degree and a cumulative master’s GPA of 3.4 or higher. No GRE scores are required for admission to this program, but students must submit a biography, career plan, and statement of their goals in pursuing this degree. The Touro education system incorporates Jewish-sponsored, non-profit educational institutions. Touro University Worldwide’s parent institution is the Touro College and University System. Touro offers students a network of both on-ground and online campuses that create a global-minded approach to a liberal arts education. Through TUW, students can access cutting-edge technology, highly-qualified faculty, and excellent administrative services throughout their education. TUW offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. This university is also military-friendly and provides tuition discounts to veterans, reserve military, and active duty service members and their families.

12. Capella University

Capella University’s online Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program prepares students to pursue their licensure as clinical psychologists. During this program, students will focus on areas including mental disorders, psychotherapy, and clinical training. The courses are offered both online and in-person, and students attend face-to-face residencies that allow them to connect with their peers and faculty. Additionally, students complete internships, a clinical practicum, and research, all of which prepare them for the challenges they will face in a real-world clinical setting. This degree’s curriculum has been designed around APA guidelines, ensuring it prepares students to pursue licensures in many states. Capella was established in 1993 to provide education programs tailored to the unique needs of adult learners. Today, Capella offers 53 degree programs. More than 38,000 students currently attend the university, and students average 39 years in age. Understanding that students have different schedules and learn better in different ways, Capella offers two learning paths. With the GuidedPath, students work toward meeting weekly deadlines and follow a more structured route. Alternatively, the FlexPath option gives students full control of their learning pace, so they can finish a course and move on to the next only when they’re ready. Capella students have access to a support team of faculty, advisors, and mentors who help ensure that students get the most out of their Capella education.

13. Northcentral University

Northcentral University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology degree program. The 60-credit-hour degree takes approximately 48 months to complete. Students can choose from specializations such as Healthy Psychology, Gender Diversity Studies, and Trauma and Disaster Relief. This online program features courses that start every Monday, allowing students to begin their degree program almost immediately. Classes are just one student in size, so students can gain excellent advice and information from their mentoring professors. Students may also be eligible for one of the six new full-tuition Legacy Scholarships awarded in the fall. Founded in 1996, Northcentral offers degree programs to working professionals all over the world. These degree programs have no physical residency requirements and are built on the power of mentoring. Northcentral offers masters and doctoral degrees in marriage and family therapy, technology, health sciences, business, education, and psychology. The university also offers bachelor’s degrees in business, education, and psychology. All Northcentral faculty have doctoral degrees, and with class sizes of one, students have unique access to faculty. Northcentral’s programs are designed with the scheduling flexibility that working professionals need, allowing them to progress toward their degrees while still maintaining family and work commitments.

14. California Institute of Integral Studies

The California Institute of Integral Studies offers an Integral and Transpersonal Psychology Online Ph.D. Program . This 36-unit program takes approximately three years to complete and is provided online with twice-yearly intensives. The degree program’s whole-person approach to psychology prepares students with the skills and research experience they’ll need for professional positions. Students have access to a peer-reviewed journal partially produced by interns, senior field scholars who help to guide research, and more. In addition to online study, students also attend residential intensives in the San Francisco Bay area, which allows them to engage with both their peers and faculty. Dr. Haridas Chaudhuri founded CIIS in 1968 as a branch of the Cultural Integration Fellowship. Over more than 40 years, CIIS has offered cross-cultural studies with an emphasis on Asian religions and cultures. Today, CIIS offers programs in subjects such as art, religion, cultural anthropology, and health studies. In the fall of 2018, CIIS’ enrollment was nearly 1,500 students, 9% of whom were international students. At CIIS, students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees and have access to a library housing more than 158,000 books and over 14,000 electronic journals.

15. Alaska Pacific University

At Alaska Pacific University, students can pursue a Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology degree. This program is designed for students who have a master’s degree and who wish to become licensed psychologists in Alaska. During the program, students complete synchronous work through online classes in the evenings.Additionally, students attend on-campus intensives every six weeks that help to prepare them for internship placement. APU also offers a variety of scholarships for psychology students, including the James C. Parsons Memorial Scholarship, the Cook Inlet Region Inc. Scholarship Fund, and the Chenega Corporation Scholarship. APU is located in Anchorage, Alaska, and offered its first classes in 1960. APU offers associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as certificate programs. Program areas include Alaska Native Governance, Nursing, Community Health, and Alaska Rural Management. For students who aren’t yet sure which path they would like to pursue, APU’s Non-Degree Seeking admissions option allows students to take college classes without enrolling in a full degree program.

16. University of Arizona Global Campus

UAGC’s Doctor of Psychology program is an online degree that prepares students to improve the emotional and mental health of others through their professional work. Students progress through this 62-credit-hour program in courses between six-to-nine weeks in length. During the program, students can choose from six specializations, including Educational Leadership, Industrial Organizational Psychology, and Sport and Performance Psychology. In addition to core and specialization courses, students also complete a capstone seminar and an Applied Doctoral Project. UAGC works to provide students with accessible, affordable, innovative, high-quality degree programs. Currently, the university offers more than 80 online degree programs that students can access anywhere, with no on-campus residency requirements. Courses are delivered in five- or six-week terms, rather than following a semester format, allowing students to progress through their coursework quickly. Because the classes are offered online asynchronously, students can log in at any time of day, so they can continue to meet their personal and professional obligations while simultaneously investing in their education. Thanks to UAGC’s online learning platform, students can communicate with faculty and their peers, read coursework, and submit assignments.

17. Fielding Graduate University

At Fielding Graduate University, students can earn a Clinical Psychology Ph.D. degree delivered uniquely. Students attend National Sessions, which are week-long events that take place throughout the country. During these sessions, students attend workshops and seminars, hear from guest speakers and forums, and attend student-led learning events and dissertation committee meetings, alumni presentations, guest presentations, and more. Often, graduation ceremonies also occur at these sessions. This program is only available to students who live in the United States or Canada. Located in Santa Barbara, CA, Fielding educates nearly 1,000 students every year. Students range in age from 23 to 82 and enjoy a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university was founded in 1974 by three higher-education administrators and educators who realized that changing demographics was also changing the higher-education field. As a result, Fielding’s degree programs are designed for adult students who are already mid-career and who learn differently than youth. Fielding’s faculty have extensive real-world experience and scholarship that allows them to create quality-learning experiences and cross-program collaboration opportunities for students.

18. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Ph.D. in International Psychology with a concentration in Trauma Services program is delivered online, making it suitable for students balancing a full-time job with their education. Students progress through the program in online cohorts, which helps to create a supportive network. In addition to online coursework, students participate in two nine-day international Field Experiences during years two and three of the program. Program graduates will have the skills needed to create programs addressing mental health issues resulting from trauma. Graduates will be prepared to work in a variety of settings, including nonprofit, education, government, international help organizations, and more. Founded in 1979, TCSPP offers over 20 degree programs today as well as many international experiences for its 4,300 students. TCSPP has campuses in Chicago, New Orleans, Dallas, Southern California, and Washington, D.C., and also offers courses online. TCSPP has 20 global academic partners and is, therefore, able to offer its students many valuable international and study abroad opportunities, helping them to develop a global perspective within their education. During their studies, students gain relevant real-world experience, and through the school’s fieldwork, students serve the global community for over 1.2 million hours annually. Many students report that working with underserved populations during their degree programs is a life-changing experience.

19. Saybrook University

Saybrook University’s online Ph.D. in Psychology degree program prepares students for professional careers in education, community health centers, prisons, non-profits, and other settings. Students may choose to specialize in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health; Creativity Studies; Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology; or in Psychophysiology. In addition to taking courses online, students also attend two five-day-long conferences on campus each year. Additionally, students must attend a one-time, two-day residential orientation when they begin their studies. Students who enroll in this degree program full-time can expect to complete the program within five to six years.Located in Pasadena, CA, Saybrook University features a College of Social Sciences and a College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences. Its residential conferences complement Saybrook’s online learning opportunities. Students and staff come together for five-day events in Monterey, CA, at the beginning of each semester. These conferences are attended by more than 300 people and feature over 150 courses and events. During the conferences, students can engage with students and faculty from all over the world. These unique events create an engaging, personal, supportive environment that allows for more in-person learning time than students traditionally find with other entirely-online or hybrid degree programs.

20. Sofia University

At Sofia University, the Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology program takes approximately three years to complete and is delivered both online and in low-residency formats. Students can choose concentrations in Applied Transpersonal Psychology, Consciousness and Creativity Studies, and Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience. While coursework is delivered online, students are expected to attend two in-person seminars in Northern California each year. Students may also decide to participate in an optional community praxis sequence. During the program, students will study research methods to prepare for their dissertation work.Sofia University, located in Palo Alto, CA, was founded in 1975 as the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology. While created to educate psychologists, the university has since expanded to offer degrees in computer science and business. Sofia offers a variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Students hail from many different professional backgrounds, including the health, law, theology, and education fields, and they attend Sofia to achieve career development and personal growth and to learn how to better contribute to their communities. Sofia University works to keep education affordable, and its tuition rates are less than those at comparable institutions.

Our Ranking Methodology

Online-Phd-Programs.org ranks doctoral programs with data from authoritative sources like the U.S. Department of Education, while accounting for factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability.

This ranking is from 2020. For more about how Online-Phd-Programs.org evaluates and ranks education programs, read more about our ranking methodology.

Why Get an Online Psychology Doctorate?

Earning an online doctorate in psychology can be challenging, requiring a significant investment of time and money. However, it can be worth the effort. Key benefits of this degree may include:

• Licensure: While each state determines its own regulations, you need a doctorate from an accredited psychology program to become a licensed psychologist, no matter where you plan to practice.
• Earning Potential: A doctorate degree can boost your overall earnings. The median weekly salary for a doctoral degree-holder is $1,909 compared to $1,574 for a master’s and $1,334 for a bachelor’s, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
• Specialized Expertise for Career Advancement: A doctorate in psychology provides advanced training and research skills in highly specialized areas, preparing graduates to make significant contributions to the field and enhancing their career prospects.
• Recognition of Online Degrees: An accredited online psychology doctorate program offers the same academic quality as a campus-based degree. Many of the nation’s top-ranked schools offer online doctorates in psychology.
• Savings and Flexibility of Online Programs: Some schools offer online learners reduced rates. Distance learning makes it easier to manage coursework around work and family obligations and helps reduce housing and commuting expenses.

Accreditation for Online Psychology Doctorate Programs

Institutional and programmatic accreditation in higher education ensures an ongoing commitment to academic quality. Regional agencies that administer institutional accreditation evaluate the academic and organizational structure of an entire college or university. Programmatic accreditors conduct an in-depth assessment of a specialized program within a college or university.

The American Psychological Association (APA) is the primary programmatic accreditor of Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy) and Psy.D. (doctor of psychology) programs. APA accreditation verifies a program’s ability to deliver consistent academic quality and best practices in evidence-based training.

Attending an accredited psychology doctorate program does not guarantee licensure, but it increases your chances of securing a required postgraduate internship and qualifies you to take the licensure exams required by most states. The APA accredits doctoral programs with some online coursework but not fully online degrees.

How Much Do Online Psychology Doctorate Graduates Make?

According to BLS data , psychologists in May 2023 earned a median annual income of $92,740, but salary ranges vary considerably by specialty, employer, and location. For example, industrial-organizational psychologists rank among the highest-paid psychologists, earning a median salary of $147,420 annually, while the median earnings for school psychologists run much lower at $84,940.

The BLS projects the employment of clinical and counseling psychologists to increase by 11% between 2022 and 2032, one of the highest rates of job growth among all psychology specialties. Currently, clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median income of $96,100 per year. Professionals in these two specialties earn the highest salaries working in research settings and hospitals.

New Jersey, the top-paying state for clinical and counseling psychologists, offers an annual average salary of $148,370, followed by $132,410 for California.

Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Ph.D. Programs

Can i do a ph.d. in psychology online.

Although the APA does not accredit fully online Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs, attending an APA-accredited program that includes some online course components will help you qualify for postgraduate internships and licensure.

Is a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. better for psychology?

The Ph.D. and Psy.D. are both academically respectable terminal degrees. If you are interested in scientific investigation, a Ph.D. is the right choice to prepare you for academic and research careers. A Psy.D. works best if you want to pursue a career in an advanced clinical role.

Are online doctoral degrees legitimate?

Accredited online psychology doctorate programs follow the same academic standards and best practices as traditional campus-based programs. Transcripts and diplomas do not differentiate between online and on-campus courses. Prospective job candidates who graduated from accredited doctorate programs, regardless of the delivery format, qualify for the same employment opportunities.

How long does a Ph.D. in psychology take online?

A doctorate in psychology may take between 5-7 years to complete, including fieldwork and internships. The number of hours to earn a doctorate varies widely, from 60-120 credits. Most students enter a doctorate after completing a master’s degree; programs that admit students with only a bachelor’s degree require more classes.

Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

• Best Online Programs
• Best Campus Programs
• Behavior Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Counseling & Mental Health
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• General Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational
• Marriage Family Therapy
• Social Psychology
• Social Work
• Educational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Family Psychologists
• Marriage Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• School Counselors
• Neuropsychologist
• I/O Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Addiction Counselor
• Mental Health Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Occupational Psychologist
• Child Psychiatrist
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• PsyD vs PhD

8 Most Affordable Online Psychology PhD Programs

With strong job demand and salaries anticipated for years to come, psychology doctoral programs are popular throughout America. At the doctoral level, psychology professionals have ample job opportunities in private practice, academia and research. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes a 3% increase in jobs in the psychology field through 2029, and a median salary of $80,370. ( BLS.gov ).

SEE ALSO:  Best Online PsyD Degree Programs

As you review the online doctoral degree in psychology options, one of the most critical factors of course is what it costs. While program quality is of immense importance, it also is key to understand what the program will cost you in the long run. It is helpful to incur the minimum amount of student debt when your program concludes and you enter the workforce.

With these facts in mind, we have reviewed many affordable online psychology doctoral programs. These eight came out on top in affordability.

#1 Capella University

Capella University’s Ph.D. in psychology programs and specializations offers tools that you can use to greatly expand your career options. It features a professionally aligned curriculum that integrates vital psychology and research courses with the specialization content that you choose. Also, students learn the newest in psychological research and practice from experienced faculty who work actively in the psychology field.

*Visit Capella University

91% of alumni said Capella gave them the flexibility to graduate on schedule. -Source: Gallup Research Study, 2016.

• Campus : Online
• Type : Private, For-Profit
• Accreditation : Higher Learning Commission
• PsyD in Clinical Psychology
• PsyD in School Psychology
• Ph.D. in General Psychology
• Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis
• Ph.D. in Educational Psychology
• Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology
• Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Ph.D. (Undecided)
• Other Requirements : 66 cr. hours
• Minimum Time Commitment : 48 months
• On Campus Requirements : No
• Per Cr. Cost : $425 to $790 per cr. hour, depending upon your level of education and other factors (inquire for more details).

#2 Walden University

Walden University’s Online Ph.D. in psychology program helps you to combine practical knowledge and research so you can succeed as an academic or practicing psychologist in many settings. Students will explore the latest theories, findings and best practices in psychological practice, and you will be able to apply these critical skills to your work right away. Students are also able to contact faculty for a chance to network with thought leaders in the field, ask questions, and ensure their career and education is on the right path. ( Walden.Edu )

• PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership
• Ph.D in Forensic Psychology
• Ph.D. in Social Psychology
• Ph.D. in Health Psychology
• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
• Ph.D. in I/O Psychology
• Other Requirements : 67 cr. hours
• Per Cr. Cost : $585 per quarter hour for classes and dissertation; total cost is up to $68,445

#3 Northcentral University

The online Ph.D. in psychology programs at Northcentral University has been designed to address the quickly growing interest in the field. Students have the opportunity to hone their critical thinking abilities in psychology, increase their knowledge base in the field, and learn to evaluate social, individual, organizational and global issues. Students are taught to excel in the field with a stress on experiential learning that involves case studies, scenarios, vignettes and real life situations. ( NCU.Edu )

• DPSY Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy
• DPSY Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
• DPSY Doctor of Psychology
• DPSY Marriage and Family Therapy
• Couple Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Child & Adolescent Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Doctor of Psychology (PhD) – Marriage and Family Therapy
• Doctorate of Marriage and Family Therapy
• General Family Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• General Psychology – PhD of Psychology
• Health Psychology – PhD of Psychology
• Industrial Organizational Psychology – PhD of Psychology
• Medical Family Therapy – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Mental Health Policy and Practice – Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
• PhD – Addictions
• PhD – Gerontology
• PhD – Trauma and Disaster Relief
• PhD-MFT – Culture, Diversity & Social Justice in a Global Context
• PhD-MFT – Education and Supervision
• PhD-MFT – Systemic Leadership
• Therapy with Military Families – PhD In Marriage/Family Therapy
• Other Requirements : 60 cr. hours
• Pre Cr. Cost : $3600 per course; total tuition is $69,950

#5 Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers a Online Ph.D. in General Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition and Instruction . This degree is intended to teach you how to bridge the gap of student achievement, as you will evaluate and explore information and processes to devise the best methods for instruction for postsecondary education in the 21st century. You will study a range of topics that are important regarding the analysis and construction of student learning outcomes, such as social cognition and assessments. You will take small classes in dynamic, online learning environments so you can continue to work and go to school. ( GCU.edu )

• Type : Non-Profit
• Degree : Ph.D. in General Psychology with an emphasis in Cognition and Instruction
• Per Cr. Cost : $650 per cr. hour

#6 Saybrook University

Saybrook University offers an online Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology that will prepare you for licensure in many states. This four year program has been specifically designed to focus on practical skills and knowledge you need to enter professional psychological practice. Coursework focuses on data analyses and meta-analyses; psychotherapy; developmental psychology; child and adolescent psychology; multicultural psychology; and humanistic-integrative psychology. ( Saybrook.edu ).

• Type : Private, Non-Profit
• Accreditation : Senior Commission of Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Degree : Ph.D. in Psychology
• Other Requirements : 62 cr. hours
• $1,150 per cr. hour

#7 California Southern University

California Southern University offers a Psy.D. that is an applied, clinically focused degree that meets all educational requirements for getting your license as a clinical psychologist in California. This program ends with a doctoral project that is focused on a psychology topic about which you are most passionate. The Psy.D. program differs from the Ph.D. as it is a more clinically-focused degree, with the intent for the student to become a practicing psychologist. ( CalSouthern.edu ).

SEE ALSO: California Southern Psy.D. Psychology Review

• Campus: Online
• Type: Private, Non-Profit
• Accreditation: Senior Commission of Western Association of Schools and Colleges
• Degree: Ph.D. in Psychology
• Other Requirements: 66 cr. hours
• Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
• On Campus Requirements: No
• $545 per cr. hour

#8 Meridian University

Meridian University offers a Ph.D. in Psychology that provides 48 months of courses in Imaginal Psychology. It draws upon spiritual traditions, creative arts, somatic practices, mythology and literary and poetic imagination. Building on the main curriculum the first two years, the last two years focuses on research, clinical and cultural praxis skills, and also acquiring the fundamental knowledge base of psychology as a profession. This four year program is designed to meet all educational requirements to earn your psychology license in California. ( MeridianUniversity.edu ).

• Type: For Profit
• Degree: Ph.D. in General Psychology
• Other Requirements: 60 cr. hours
• $20,280 per year.

#9 Keiser University

Keiser University offers an online Ph.D. in Psychology that has been designed to challenge students with the most rigorous courses and teaching and research work. Students will understand all psychological principles and theories, such as motivation, learning, behavior and emotion. You also will evaluate social services programs and educational programs to include curriculum development, evaluation and assessment strategies.

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
• Tuition: Inquire

*Indicates school is a Featured Partner.  Click here for disclosure on Featured Partners. 

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