5 Fastest Accelerated PhDs in School Psychology 2025
Key Takeaways
- Accelerated PhD programs in school psychology can be completed in as little as three years.
- Accelerated PhD programs in school psychology can be completed online, on-campus, or a hybrid of the two.
- A fast-track to a PhD refers to getting admission to a PhD program after completing an undergraduate degree or transferring from a master’s degree.
Fastest Accelerated PhDs in School Psychology in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.
In 2025, the top schools in our ranking of the fastest accelerated PhDs in school psychology saw a large amount of shift. Loyola University Chicago gained the most ranking positions as the school expanded its psychology research facilities, providing students with access to cutting-edge tools for conducting studies on child development, learning disabilities, and behavioral interventions. Additionally, new community partnerships with local schools and mental health agencies offer students enhanced opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and collaborative research. Loyola has also integrated new coursework focusing on trauma-informed care and culturally responsive practices, aligning with modern challenges in school psychology. These updates ensure that PhD students are equipped with the latest knowledge and practical experience for their future careers.
The perceived limitations of working solely in educational institutions make school psychology an underrated discipline of the mind sciences. That said, a doctoral degree in this subject can offer a broad range of interesting and rewarding career options.
We understand that a PhD in any field can be daunting due to its prolonged duration and commitment. However, what if we tell you there are quicker, more flexible ways to attain a PhD?
In this blog, we have listed the fastest accelerated PhD in school psychology.
Top Fastest Accelerated PhD in School Psychology
A PhD in this discipline serves as a path to a well-paying career with ample room to grow professionally and personally. Here are the best universities for pursuing this educational path:
- #6 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #7 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #7 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
89%
Student body
51K
Median SAT/ACT
1425/29
Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison
Cost of Degree: $12,289Expenses: $17,700Starting Salary: $95,562Salary after 4 years: $110,135Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOverview of University of Wisconsin Madison
- Location: Wisconsin
- Credit: 98
- GPA Requirement: 3.0
- Ranking: 35
What do we love about University of Wisconsin Madison?
The University of Wisconsin-Madison, located in Wisconsin, is a public and official state school of Wisconsin. One of the top-ranked research universities in the U.S., UW-Madison offers an array of programs in psychology through its Department of Education Psychology.
The PhD program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is based on the ‘scholar-scientist-practitioner’ training model. This program focuses on psychodiagnosis, prevention and intervention methodologies, counseling and consultation, program planning, and research and evaluation. It requires candidates to complete a graduate or professional certification.
- University of Wisconsin Madison is great for students who: Aim to engage in rigorous research and contribute to school psychology through the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Ph.D. program, which emphasizes research and practice.
- University of Wisconsin Madison might not be the best fit for students who: Are primarily interested in obtaining a degree through online coursework since the program requires on-campus attendance and does not appear to be offered as an online or accelerated option.
- #1 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
71%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1275/29
Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Loyola University Chicago
Cost of Degree: $22,305Expenses: $19,694Starting Salary: $59,637Salary after 4 years: $73,288Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOverview of Loyola University Chicago
- Location: Chicago
- Credit: 63
- GPA Requirement: 3.0
- Ranking: 142
What do we love about Loyola University Chicago?
Loyola University Chicago offers a part-time, online Ed.D. in School Psychology. It’s great for those who already possess a license in this profession and have at least two years of practice experience. This accelerated program can be completed in two years.
The online accelerated Ed.D. is offered in three tracks: The Advanced Practitioner track is for those who want an LCP license, The District Administrator track is for those wishing a Director of Special Education endorsement, and the Combined Track offers both the licensure and endorsement.
- Loyola University Chicago is great for students who: Value a comprehensive education that integrates training in psychological services with a focus on social justice.
- Loyola University Chicago might not be the best fit for students who: Are seeking an online or part-time doctoral program in school psychology, as Loyola’s Ph.D. program requires full-time, on-campus attendance.
Loyola University Chicago’s Online Degrees
BA in Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Information Technology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Web Technologies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Paralegal Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Applied Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Strategic Digital Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Indiana 2024 #5 Best Online Colleges in Indiana 2024 #12 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024 #14 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
Overview of Indiana University
- Location: Indiana
- Credit: 94
- GPA Requirement: 2.75
- Ranking: 198
What do we love about Indiana University?
Ranked as one of the top universities in the U.S., Indiana University offers a diverse range of 930 undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. IU offers a PhD at its Bloomington campus. This program covers foundations, research methods, professional implementation, and intervention techniques.
This program spans 94 credit hours, with 1,500 hours of internships and 800 hours of practice. IU offers specialized programs for working professionals interested in this subject, such as an online Ed.S. in School Psychology program.
- Indiana University is great for students who: Aspire to a blend of research and practice in school psychology, with opportunities for leadership roles in special education.
- Indiana University might not be the best fit for students who: Are seeking exclusively online or distance learning options for their doctoral studies in school psychology, as Indiana University’s Ph.D. program requires on-campus attendance.
- #8 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity #6 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
Tuition + fees
$14K
Student body
68K
Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Capella University
Cost of Degree: $15,066Starting Salary: $68,183Salary after 4 years: $83,790Overview of Capella University
- Location: Minneapolis
- Credit: 145
- GPA Requirement: 2.8
- Ranking: 2629
What do we love about Capella University?
Capella University is a private, accredited online university located in Minnesota, U.S. It offers online programs in psychology, such as a Master of Science in School Psychology for students looking to get licensed or certified.
For those aspiring to get an accelerated PhD, Capella University offers a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) programs.
- Capella University is great for students who: Are looking for a flexible, online program that allows them to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.
- Capella University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a traditional, campus-based educational experience or are not interested in a practitioner-focused degree.
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
65%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Findlay
Cost of Degree: $18,456Expenses: $15,504Starting Salary: $46,113Salary after 4 years: $56,668Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOverview of University of Findlay
- Location: Findlay, Ohio
- Credit: 99
- GPA Requirement: 3.0
- Ranking: 332
What do we love about University of Findlay?
The University of Findlay is a private Christian university established in partnership with the city of Findlay, Ohio, and the Churches of God General Conference. For students looking for an accelerated doctoral program in school psychology, the UoF offers an online Doctor of Educational Psychology program.
This program requires students to attend a week-long summer institute in person and an internship in the final year. The D.Ed. at the University of Findlay focuses on equipping students with techniques to encourage learning among kids and teens. The best part? You don’t need a master’s degree to start.
- University of Findlay is great for students who: Are seeking a flexible online program that prepares them to enhance the learning and mental health of children and youth, as the University of Findlay offers an online Doctor of Education in School Psychology.
- University of Findlay might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a traditional in-person program or are not looking for a doctorate that focuses on education in school psychology.
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Why Should You Specialize in School Psychology?
A PhD in this field opens several bright and interesting career prospects. While many school psychologists work in public schools – like elementary, middle, or high schools – they are in demand in policy-making, government institutions, private clinics, childcare facilities, and hospitals.
Luckily, working professionals can now acquire PhD and specialist programs in their respective fields, as many colleges and universities across the U.S. offer degrees that are not only accelerated but also completely remote.
These online programs are reliable and flexible if you have a full-time job or other responsibilities. They offer an accelerated curriculum and let you study on your own time.
How much does a PhD in school psychology cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition cost for a PhD ranged between $12,171 to $27,776.
Studying at a public institution in your state will cost you around $12,171. Meanwhile, if you pick a private school, the fee jumps to $27,776. It is important to remember that the actual cost can vary depending on the school.
Students aiming for a PhD in this field usually look for options that are light on the pocket. The good news is that many colleges and universities support PhD students through fellowships and grants. These programs involve activities like teaching or research work. The fellowships and grants help reduce the cost of your doctoral degree. Some even offer annual living stipends and tuition waivers.
Student Submitted Questions About the Fastest PhDs in School Psychology
What is the shortest time to get a PhD in psychology?
Typically, a PhD program takes between 4 to 8 years. However, accelerated PhD in psychology programs allow students to complete a doctoral degree in as little as three years. Online PhD programs can also be completed in 2 years.
What is the quickest and easiest PhD to get?
While a PhD degree requires extensive research work and practice, some disciplines are less laborious when it comes to a doctoral degree. You can get the quickest and easiest PhD in these academic disciplines: Humanities, Education, Theology, Business Administration, Psychology, and Literature.
What is a fast track PhD?
Fast-tracking refers to getting admission to a PhD program after completing an undergraduate degree or transferring from a master’s degree. This option has recently gained popularity among students as it is easily accessible and provides value while saving time.
Conclusion
A PhD in school psychology provides promising career options with rewarding salaries. With the rise in the acceptance of accelerated and online degrees, students can complete a doctoral degree in as little as two years.
The fastest accelerated PhD in school psychology listed in this blog will help you pick a school that aligns with your values, goals, and requirements.
