Difference between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology (2024)

FAQs

Difference between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology? ›

Like a PhD in Psychology, the Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) prepares students to practice psychology in a wide range of clinical settings. A PsyD, however, focuses more on clinical practice and less on research. As a result, this degree requires fewer research and statistics courses and thus takes less time.

The PsyD degree focuses more on hands-on clinical training along with research whereas the PhD degree focuses more on the research aspect. While both prepare you for promising careers in psychology, a PsyD degree positions you well for "in-the-field" careers, such as a clinical psychologist.

PhD programs tend to be fairly focused on research, whereas PsyD programs tend to be less focused on research and more centered on direct clinical service provision. (Masters level programs tend to involve no or minimal research.)

A PhD is a doctor of philosophy in psychology. These programs tend to have a stronger emphasis on research, smaller class sizes, more full-time faculty, and higher admissions standards. A PsyD is a clinical doctor program, which focuses more heavily on psychological practices.

Licensure: Earning a psychology doctorate is the only path to independent practice as a licensed psychologist. Employment: Many employers, such as those in academia, prefer Ph. D. holders over candidates with psychology master's degrees.

Generally, PhD programs may be more difficult to get into and the program usually lasts between 5 and 8 years. PsyD programs, while still competitive, have a relatively higher acceptance rate and take 1-2 years fewer to complete.

PhD programs focus more on research and theory, while PsyD programs focus more on practical application and clinical experience. In terms of therapy, a PhD therapist may use a more analytical and research-based approach, while a PsyD therapist may use a more hands-on and practical approach.

While both degrees qualify individuals for clinical practice and therapy, the choice between a PsyD and a PhD depends on career goals and preferences. Those seeking a strong clinical focus may opt for a PsyD, while those interested in research and academia may choose a PhD.

While PhD programs train students to generate original knowledge, PsyD programs have traditionally been centered on applying said knowledge in the field. PsyD programs are a bit shorter than PhD programs—they take four to six years to complete—and do not tend to be funded.

You do not need a master's degree to get a PsyD, as some programs accept students with bachelor's degrees in psychology or a related field. However, having a master's degree can enhance your qualifications and competitiveness.

Do clinical psychologists need a PhD EDD or PsyD in order to practice? ›

Answer: The following are the necessary requirements for licensure as a psychologist: Possess a qualifying doctoral degree [Business and Professions Code (BPC) § 2914(b)]

For practitioner specialties in psychology, graduates need additional training in a supervised post-doctoral experince before applying for a psychology license. Theoretically, the Psy. D. is a practitioner oriented degree while the Ph. D. is a research oriented degree intended to prepare sudents for academic careers.

As noted by the APA career guide, a PsyD is a doctoral degree, while a master's in psychology is a graduate degree. Admission to a master's program requires an undergraduate degree with coursework covering psychology, statistics, and lab work, as well as completing the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

A PhD vs PsyD salary has similar projections. However, a student's preferred work setting can impact one's earning potential. For instance, PsyD graduates can earn more by having a private practice or working as corporate psychologists.

Earning Potential

On the other hand, clinical, counseling and school psychologists with PHDs tend to earn around $81,000 per year. The highest paying psychology careers can average up to $167,000, so studying a PHD in psychology will be worth it in the long run when it comes to career prospects.

In terms of career opportunities, if you're wanting to work in academia or research, the PhD is necessary to attain most positions in academia. If you don't enjoy research or you know now that you only want to work in client-facing roles or clinical settings, a PsyD is the better option out of the two.

Earning Potential

On the other hand, clinical, counseling and school psychologists with PHDs tend to earn around $81,000 per year. The highest paying psychology careers can average up to $167,000, so studying a PHD in psychology will be worth it in the long run when it comes to career prospects.

At the doctoral level, the highest number of programs, applications, and acceptances are found in clinical psychology, but with an overall acceptance rate of 12%.

You may prefer a PsyD if you're interested in working with patients in the hands-on roles associated with forensic psychology, without spending as much time studying research methods. Despite different focuses, both degrees can qualify you to work in leadership positions, conduct research, teach, or work with patients.