5 Fastest Accelerated PhDs in Behavioral Psychology

5 Fastest Accelerated PhDs in Behavioral Psychology
By Chloe Dembski
Reviewed By Dr. James Barham
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • Accelerated PhD programs in behavioral psychology can be completed in as little as three years.
  • Accelerated PhD programs in behavioral psychology can be completed online, on-campus, or a hybrid of the two.
  • Make sure that the PhD program in behavioral psychology is accredited.

A full-time career and responsibilities can make it difficult for many to pursue a PhD in behavioral psychology the traditional way. This is because doctoral degrees have a reputation for being lengthy, expensive, and complex.

In this guide, you can find the perfect fastest accelerated PhD in behavioral psychology program.

Two women using their laptops

Fastest Accelerated PhD in Behavioral Psychology

Approximately 800,000 PhDs are expected to be awarded by 2030. Here are the top institutions offering the fastest accelerated PhD programs in behavioral psychology, each distinguished by its unique curriculum and efficient completion timelines.

  1. #1

    Alliant International University

    San Diego , CA
    #1 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs) #3 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates) #6 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Alliant International University

    Cost of Degree: $19,874
    Starting Salary: $57,816
    Salary after 4 years: $75,114

    What do we love about Alliant International University?

    Alliant International University offers an accelerated Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Educational Psychology, setting itself apart with its efficient and focused approach.

    This online PsyD program boasts a brief two-year completion time, making it one of the fastest options available. The program spans 11 terms with four distinct phases, culminating in the second-year PsyD project. Applicants need a master’s in psychology or related fields. Licensure or certification in school psychology opens career opportunities in behavioral psychology in various settings.

    Alliant emphasizes practical experience through internships, consulting, and community service, enriching theoretical knowledge. Recognized as a top military-friendly university, Alliant is a preferred choice for veterans. With small class sizes, Alliant maintains a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring personalized attention.

    • Alliant International University is great for students who: Want to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology with a focus on mental health and human behavior, integrating practical training with academic learning.
    • Alliant International University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a traditional educational setting with more resources, as some students may find that public schools do not have enough resources to meet unique learning needs.
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  2. #2

    University of Arizona Global Campus

    San Diego , CA
    #2 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs) #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration #16 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    10%

    Student body

    58K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Arizona Global Campus

    Cost of Degree: $13,515
    Starting Salary: $42,209
    Salary after 4 years: $54,838

    What do we love about University of Arizona Global Campus?

    The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) takes center stage with its accelerated Doctor of Psychology program.

    In a well-structured four-year program, students navigate through coursework for three years and focus on the Applied Doctoral Project in the fourth year. UAGC offers a dynamic online learning format, allowing flexibility for students. This program does not lead to licensure.

    UAGC provides a national platform for aspiring behavioral psychologists, fostering a diverse academic community. Despite its online nature, UAGC encourages on-campus networking events, enhancing students’ social and professional connections.

    • University of Arizona Global Campus is great for students who: Desire to build their knowledge base in the history and systems of psychology.
    • University of Arizona Global Campus might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer in-person learning experiences, as the University of Arizona Global Campus specializes in online education.
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  3. #3

    Pepperdine University

    Malibu , CA
    #2 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in California 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    49%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1382/30

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Pepperdine University

    Cost of Degree: $39,720
    Expenses: $22,060
    Starting Salary: $68,811
    Salary after 4 years: $89,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    What do we love about Pepperdine University?

    Pepperdine University offers an on-campus Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology. This program is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of psychology, emphasizing the practitioner-scholar model.

    The PsyD program at Pepperdine is structured to be completed in an average time of 4 years. During the final year, students focus on internships and the clinical dissertation, providing a holistic and hands-on learning experience.

    Pepperdine prides itself on fostering a supportive campus community. With a relatively small student body, Pepperdine University ensures individualized attention.

    • Pepperdine University is great for students who: Are looking for a PsyD in Clinical Psychology that combines comprehensive training with hands-on experience.
    • Pepperdine University might not be the best fit for students who: Are seeking an affordable education, as Pepperdine is a private institution known for its higher tuition costs.

    Pepperdine University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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    4. Person picking a book from a bookshelf
  5. #4

    Walden University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #1 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates) #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates) #1 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Student body

    74K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Walden University

    Cost of Degree: $10,381
    Starting Salary: $55,421
    Salary after 4 years: $72,004

    What do we love about Walden University?

    Walden University distinguishes itself with a hybrid PhD in Psychology, offering a fast-track option for those seeking an accelerated path to a doctorate.

    Walden’s unique Tempo Learning format provides flexibility. Online students opting for the fast-track plan commit to three courses per term, completing coursework in four years. With six diverse tracks, including Educational Psychology and Health Psychology, students can tailor their academic journey to align with personal and professional goals.

    Walden caters to varied preferences, offering both Course-Based Learning and Tempo Learning. Busy working adults can find a mode that suits their lifestyle.

    • Walden University is great for students who: Are juggling professional and personal commitments and want flexibility and affordable options.
    • Walden University might not be the best fit for students who: Are looking for a traditional campus experience, as Walden University specializes in online education.
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  6. #5

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #6 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #8 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $8,405
    Expenses: $19,987
    Starting Salary: $36,711
    Salary after 4 years: $47,695
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    What do we love about Liberty University?

    Liberty University stands out for its commitment to integrating faith into academic learning, offering an online PhD in Psychology.

    Liberty University facilitates a smoother academic journey by allowing students to transfer up to 50% of previous credit hours, expediting the completion of the online doctoral program. With specializations such as Behavioral Health Leadership and Social Psychology, Liberty University’s program enables students to tailor their studies to match their interests and career aspirations.

    • Liberty University is great for students who: Are interested in a variety of online doctoral programs with the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.
    • Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer in-person interaction and the traditional on-campus college experience, as Liberty University’s PhD programs are designed to be completed online. 

    Liberty University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Commercial Music
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fashion Merchandising
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BFA in Graphic Design
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSBA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Automotive Dealership Management
    • Communication
    • Data Analytics
    • Digital Marketing And Advertising
    • Economics
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Financial Planning
    • Green And Sustainable Management
    • Healthcare Management
    • Human Resource Management
    • International Business
    • Leadership
    • Marketing Analytics
    • Marketing: Sales Management And Professional Selling
    • Project Management
    • Public Administration
    • Real Estate
    • Strategic Marketing Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Business Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Christian Leadership And Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sports Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Conference And Event Management
    • Sports Administration
    • Sports Communication And Public Relations
    • Sports Outreach
    • Sports Venue Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computational Mathematics
    Degree Concentrations
    • Actuarial
    • Computer Science
    • Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting Information Systems
    • Data Networking
    • Database
    • Information Assurance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Technology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Application And Database Development
    • Data Networking And Security
    • Gaming Design
    • Web And Mobile Programming
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Administration And Management
    • Corrections And Human Services
    • Crime Scene Investigation
    • Criminal Psychology
    • Homeland Security
    • Juvenile Justice
    • Public Administration
    • Strategic Intelligence
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Government
    Degree Concentrations
    • National Security
    • Politics And Policy
    • Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Law And Policy
    Degree Concentrations
    • Pre-Law
    • Public Policy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Paralegal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Elementary Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Middle Grades English
    • Middle Grades Mathematics
    • Middle Grades Science
    • Middle Grades Social Science
    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in English Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Mathematics Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Middle Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • English
    • Math
    • Science
    • Social Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Physical Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Physics Education - Earth Science 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Social Studies Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Teaching English As A Second Language
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Applied Ministry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Biblical And Educational Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cultural Engagement
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in English And Writing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Journalism
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BEd in English As A Second Language
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Military Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • History
    • International Security
    • Professional
    • Resiliency
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Religion
    Degree Concentrations
    • Apologetics
    • Biblical And Theological Studies
    • Christian Counseling
    • Christian Ministries
    • Evangelism
    • Global Studies
    • Nextgen
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Media Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSW in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Strategic Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Worship Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Informatics-Healthcare Informatics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (Rn To Bsn)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSRT in Respiratory Therapist
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Global Studies (Rn To Bsn)
    • Required Credits: 127
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    Degree Concentrations
    • Addictions And Recovery
    • Christian Counseling
    • Criminal Psychology
    • Online Crisis
    • Development Psychology
    • Life Coaching
    • Military Resilience
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Aviation
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Aviation Maintenance Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Aviation Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Civil Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Industrial Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
Therapist talking to her patient on the couch
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Why should you consider an accelerated PhD in behavioral psychology?

Accelerated online psychology doctorate programs offer a quicker path to earning a PhD. This allows you to assume esteemed and high-paying positions sooner and make a tangible contribution to your field.

Many accelerated doctoral programs offer a range of specializations, allowing you to focus on educational psychology, criminal justice, applied behavioral analysis, and more. This diversity enables you to align your studies with your specific career goals.

While the cost of a doctoral program is a significant investment, accelerated options can be more cost-effective. Shorter durations mean reduced expenses, making it financially feasible for many aspiring psychologists.

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Overview of Key Factors When Choosing an Accelerated PhD Program

Before considering a program, thoroughly research its structures, durations, and specializations that align with your career goals. Here are the factors you must consider:

Accreditation

Ensure that the universities under consideration are accredited. Accredited programs meet rigorous academic standards, providing confidence in the quality and recognition of your degree.

Program Structure and Duration

Evaluate the structure of each program. While they are accelerated, the specific duration can vary. Consider your personal preferences and commitments to choose a timeframe that aligns with your goals.

Specialization Alignment

Search for the offered specializations. Choose a program that fits your overarching goal of a doctorate in psychology and allows you to specialize in an area that resonates with your passion and career objectives.

Flexibility and Support Services

As a working professional, flexibility is crucial. Look for programs that offer asynchronous learning options and additional support services. These may include career counseling, academic advising, and resources for balancing work and study.

Alumni Success Stories

Read the success stories of alumni from each program. Alumni insights can provide a realistic view of the program’s impact on career advancement, challenges faced, and the overall satisfaction of the learning experience.

Networking Opportunities

Consider programs that provide networking opportunities. Through on-campus events, virtual meet-ups, or exclusive forums, networking can be vital in building professional relationships and gaining insights from peers and experienced professionals.

Student Submitted Questions About the Fastest PhDs in Behavioral Psychology

What is the shortest time to get a PhD in psychology?

Accelerated PhD programs in psychology can take as little as three years. Traditional programs typically take 5 to 7 years to complete.

What’s the fastest you can become a psychologist?

Becoming a psychologist typically involves earning a doctoral degree, which can take 5 to 7 years. Accelerated programs may reduce the timeline, allowing completion in 3 to 4 years.

What is the hardest field in psychology?

The most challenging psychology courses include Advanced Statistical Methods, Neuropsychology, Neuroanatomy, and Developmental Psychology.

Conclusion

Candidates with doctorate degrees have higher chances of getting employed. Students must carefully evaluate their goals, and values when selecting the fastest accelerated PhD in behavioral psychology program. Each university offers distinctive features, and by finding programs that align with individual needs, students can embark on a fulfilling journey.

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