PsyD

The PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology, is a professional doctoral degree in psychology with a primary emphasis on clinical practice and application rather than research. It is most common in the United States and is awarded by universities and health science centers for graduates who complete an approved program that emphasizes competency in assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy, and professional practice.

The degree emerged in the 1960s as a response to shortages of practicing clinical psychologists and as an alternative to the more research-focused PhD. PsyD programs generally follow a practitioner-scholar or practitioner-based model, prioritizing clinical training, supervised practicum experiences, and internships over basic science research. While research often remains a component, it is typically less central than in PhD programs, and students may complete a clinically oriented project or dissertation rather than traditional laboratory research.

Accreditation for many PsyD programs is provided through the American Psychological Association’s Commission on Accreditation (CoA) or through other recognized regional or national bodies. Licensure as a psychologist requires completion of the doctoral degree, a prescribed amount of supervised professional practice (commonly about 1,500 to 2,000 hours depending on state), successful completion of the licensure examination for psychologists (the EPPP), and any state-specific requirements such as jurisprudence exams or additional supervised hours.

Differences from PhD programs typically include greater emphasis on clinical training and shorter time to degree in some cases, along with higher potential costs and variable availability of scholarships. Career paths for PsyD graduates usually center on clinical practice in hospitals, clinics, private practice, or health systems, though many also engage in teaching or program development.