Doctor of Psychology (PsyD): Online Psychology Degree
Research online Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) programs. Get information about online psychology courses, career options, salary prospects and licensure requirements to make informed academic decisions.
Online Doctorate in Psychology Overview
Through an online Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program, scholars explore human development, intervention strategies, the influences of biology on behavior and methods of diagnosis. A Psy.D. program is generally available with a specialization in clinical psychology. These programs are different than Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs, which focus on psychological research and prepare students for academic careers. Psy.D. applicants must have a master's degree in psychology or a related field.
Students who are interested in psychology may be interested in earning a degree in related fields, such as counseling, social work or sociology.
Program Information and Requirements
It typically takes about five years to complete the online Psy.D. in Psychology program, including finishing course work, writing and defending the dissertation, completing clinical practicums and participating in an internship. Both the practicums and the internship requirements must be completed in-person, working under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. The program includes a selection of campus-based, online and hybrid courses. Online, students can access courses, lessons, lecture notes, videos, assignments, the online library and discussion boards.
Some things necessary to complete the online program include high-speed Internet access, an e-mail address, Microsoft Office and Flash Player. Some necessary hardware includes a printer, a CD ROM, anti-virus protection and the ability to watch videos.
List of Common Psychology Courses
Online doctoral-level courses in psychology include a combination of core and elective courses in the field. Students complete foundational and advanced courses and choose electives based on their areas of interest.
Psychopathology
This class covers a wide range of mental disorders and modern methods for diagnosing and treating them. It addresses both adult and child disorders.
Conducting Assessments
Scholars explore methods for conducting physiological and cognitive assessments. This class provides information and techniques for conducting assessments on children, teens and adults to determine their psychological health.
Social Behavior
Participants analyze current issues in social behavior, including how these things affect our perceptions, thoughts, behaviors and emotions. They research social cognition and how interacting with others affects social behaviors.
Career Information for Graduates
With a doctorate, graduates are eligible to become licensed psychologists. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that approximately 100,850 individuals worked as clinical, counseling and school psychologists as of May 2011 (www.bls.gov). The BLS projected that employment for clinical, counseling and school psychologists would increase by 11% from 2008-2018, which is approximately 16,800 new jobs during that decade. As of May 2011, the median annual salary for clinical, counseling and school psychologists was $67,880, according to the BLS.
Continuing Education Information
To become psychologists, the BLS reports that graduates must pass their state's licensing exam and requirements, which typically include experience and training. They can also earn board certification in one of 13 different specialties. After gaining some experience, psychologists can open their own practice, but they may have to take exams every few years to keep their licensure up-to-date.
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