5 Fastest Accelerated PhDs in Social Psychology

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

Key Takeaways

  • Accelerated PhD programs in social psychology can be completed in as little as three years.
  • Accelerated PhD programs in social psychology can be completed online, on-campus, or a hybrid of the two.
  • Students with full-time jobs or family commitments, often choose accelerated online PhD programs in psychology to complete their degrees faster.

Many post-graduates pursuing a PhD often struggle to balance their academic and personal commitments.

Fortunately, universities have evolved with the times and are now offering fast-paced doctoral PhD programs in social psychology for students. This article aims to explore some of the top-tier institutions that provide the fastest accelerated Ph.D. in social psychology for students who cannot commit to a traditional full-time course due to their busy schedules.

Woman typing on a laptop while a textbook is open on her desk

Fastest Accelerated PhDs in Social Psychology

Students seeking an accelerated PhD in social psychology have a myriad of well-known universities to choose from. These institutes offer various modes of education (hybrid and online) that enable students to pursue a PhD program quickly. Luckily, 11% of all US post-graduate schools are primarily online.

  1. #1

    Capella University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #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)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Student body

    68K

    Overview of Capella University

    • Tuition Fee: $44,924 (For 5 years)
    • Completion time:  5 years
    • Required Credits: 87
    • Mode: Online

    What do we love about Capella University?

    The School of Social and Behavioral Sciences at Capella University offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Psychology, with options to specialize in Developmental, Industrial-Organizational programs, or Educational Psychology.

    The program is conducted online, with virtual residencies as an alternative to on-campus participation. Students can start their Doctoral projects at an early stage in the program. The Higher Learning Commission has recognized Capella University as an accredited institution.

    • Capella University is great for students who: Are looking for a flexible, online Ph.D. program in psychology with various specializations and support for dissertation research.
    • Capella University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer in-person learning experiences and may not thrive in a fully online environment.
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  2. #2

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    #6 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #9 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #10 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    Overview of Liberty University

    • Tuition Fee: $23,000
    • Completion time: 3.5 years
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Mode: Online

    What do we love about Liberty University?

    Liberty University is a renowned evangelical institution that offers comprehensive programs combining academic rigor, a welcoming campus, caring faculty, practical experience, and a focus on moral leadership.

    Liberty University, a pioneer in online education, offers a PhD in Counsellor Education and Supervision online. This program prepares students for licensure by teaching counseling skills, education, supervision, advocacy, and research. Experienced teachers assist students in implementing the latest methods for mental health.

    • Liberty University is great for students who: Value the integration of a Christian worldview with their education and are seeking a degree that can be completed entirely online.
    • Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a traditional on-campus experience or are not looking for a program that emphasizes a biblical perspective in its curriculum.

    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
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    3. Woman with her hand on her chin, while looking at her laptop
  3. #3

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #20 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/25

    Overview of University of Arizona

    • Tuition Fee: $14,664
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Required Credits: 62
    • Mode: Online

    What do we love about University of Arizona?

    The University of Arizona offers one of the shortest online Doctor of Psychology programs that can be completed in four years, with most students finishing by the end of the third year. In the fourth year, committed students can participate in the Applied Doctoral Project to enhance the community’s well-being.

    The program offers specialization in three areas: sport and performance, health and wellness, and criminal justice studies. However, since it is not a licensure program, prospective online students residing outside Arizona should check with their state whether the program meets licensure test criteria.

    • University of Arizona is great for students who: Aspire to engage in a research-intensive Ph.D. program, preparing for scholarly careers in academia or research.
    • University of Arizona might not be the best fit for students who: Are looking for a program with online or distance learning options, as the University of Arizona’s Ph.D. in Social Psychology is designed as an on-campus, in-person experience.

    University of Arizona’s Online Degrees

    BA in Africana Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Administration of Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Care, Health and Society
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Medical Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Cyber Operations
    Degree Concentrations
    • Engineering
    • Defense & Forensics
    • and Cyber Law & Policy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Economy and Industry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Environmental Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies, in Arts, Media and Entertainment
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Global and Intercultural Understanding
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Global Media
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Government and Public Service
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Rights Practice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Geographic Information Systems Technology (GIST)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Literacy, Learning and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Information Science and ESociety
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Law
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Regional Commerce
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Intelligence and Information Operations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Philosophy: Ethics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Biology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nutritional Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Spanish
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Sports and Society
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Sustainable Built Environments
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of General Studies in Social Behavior and Human Understanding
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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  5. #4

    Walden University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #4 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates) #5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Student body

    74K

    Overview of Walden University

    • Tuition Fee: $10,092
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Required Credits: 65
    • Mode: Hybrid

    What do we love about Walden University?

    Walden University has two flexible learning formats: Course-Based Learning and Tempo Learning. Students who value flexibility can choose Tempo Learning, while those who prefer a faster curriculum can choose Course-Based Learning.

    Walden University offers an accelerated three-semester program for its hybrid Ph.D. in psychology, which differs from the typical two-semester approach. This accelerated program aims to help students complete their doctorates more quickly, reducing the usual eight years to four.

    • Walden University is great for students who: Are seeking an online and flexible Ph.D. that allows them to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.
    • Walden University might not be the best fit for students who: Prefer a traditional, on-campus educational experience or are not interested in a program with a strong emphasis on applying psychological theories and concepts to real-world issues.
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  6. #5

    Saint Louis University

    Saint Louis , MO
    #4 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #16 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Missouri 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Missouri 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $51K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1305/28

    Overview of Saint Louis University

    • Tuition Fee: $22,614
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Required Credits: 78
    • Mode: On-campus

    What do we love about Saint Louis University?

    Applicants holding a master’s degree in psychology can take advantage of Saint Louis University’s accelerated four-year PhD program in clinical psychology. The Psychological Services Center provides students with the necessary on-campus training in psychological evaluation.

    The program’s main focus is on adult clinical psychology, although students can specialize in areas. This includes clinical neuropsychology, clinical child psychology, sports psychology, health psychology, or trauma psychology.

    • Saint Louis University is great for students who: Are interested in a multifaceted, full-time Ph.D. program in experimental psychology that prepares them for academic teaching and research careers.
    • Saint Louis University might not be the best fit for students who: Are looking for a specialized program in social psychology or those seeking the fastest possible track to a Ph.D., as the program at Saint Louis University is designed to be comprehensive and full-time.

    Saint Louis University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Computer Information Systems
    Degree Concentrations
    • Cybersecurity
    • Data Analytics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Leadership and Organizational Behavior
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership and Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Project Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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Woman posing with her graduation robes

Are accelerated PhD programs more tedious than traditional programs?

Individuals with non-traditional student profiles, such as those with full-time jobs or family commitments, often choose accelerated online PhD programs in psychology to complete their degrees faster. Graduate programs typically take up to a decade, while accelerated programs take less than six years.

However, the fast-paced nature of accelerated programs is often challenging for students, as they have to cope with a high course workload, which could affect their ability to learn and retain course material. According to the Carnegie Unit Report, accelerated course workloads are higher, making it more difficult for students to keep up.

To address this challenge, some schools have adopted competency-based frameworks, which provide more flexibility to online graduate degree students. This change reduces the total cost and enables students to learn at their own pace.

If you’re looking for a more traditional pace, you can earn a DSW or PhD in Social Work online at some of the best schools in America.

Student Submitted Questions About the Fastest PhDs in Social Psychology

How fast can I complete a PhD in psychology?

The duration required to complete a PhD in psychology depends on various factors, such as the program’s format and each student’s progress. Accelerated programs can be finished in 4 to 6 years compared to conventional programs, which can last a decade.

Which specialization is more lucrative for a PhD in psychology?

According to Research.com, Psychiatrists make the most money in psychology, with an expected annual salary of over $200,000.

Is a dissertation mandatory for all accelerated PhD programs?

PhD programs have different requirements for dissertations, even those that offer accelerated degrees. While some programs insist on a dissertation, others provide alternative options like projects or publishing. In contrast, professional doctorates commonly require a capstone project instead of a dissertation.

Conclusion

Social psychology research is focused on studying human behavior and how social interactions influence it. Pursuing a doctorate in social psychology can prepare you for various positions, such as teaching, research, and practice.

A doctorate is a practical way to advance your expertise and career prospects in this rewarding field. If you want to take your career and studies to the next level, you can start by researching reputable accelerated PhD programs.

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