Undergraduate Program
Graduate Study in Psychology
Planning for Graduate Study
Several degrees are available at the graduate level. Many of the subfields are research and scientifically oriented and most graduate degrees involve some training in research methods and quantitative analysis. The type of degree you choose to pursue and the subdiscipline within which this occurs depends on your interests.
Degree Options
Ph.D.
Training
- Located in graduate programs in university departments
- Requires completion of appropriate coursework as well as research-based thesis and dissertation.
- Scientist-practitioner perspective with the emphasis on the scientist. Some practicum experience required.
Time
5 to 7 years
Career Options
Academic and applied settings
Cost and Financial Support
Low due to tuition waivers and stipends
Psy.D.
Training
- Located in graduate programs in university departments, in a university-affiliated psychology school, or in an independent professional psychology school (i.e. CSPP).
- Requires completion of appropriate coursework as well as research-based thesis and dissertation.
- Scholar-professional perspective with emphasis on the professional/practice component. Some practicum experience required.
Time
4 to 7 years
Career Options
More applied settings
Cost and Financial Support
Fairly expensive due to no or few tuition waivers or stipends.
M.A./M.S./M.S.W./C.S.W.
Training
Requires completion of appropriate coursework and practicum experience. Some, but not all, programs require research (masters thesis).
Time
2 years
Career Options
Applied settings
Cost and Financial Support
Fairly expensive due to no or few tuition waivers or stipends.