Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN PSYCHOLOGY
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The average time to earn a PhD in psychology through online doctoral programs is six to ten years.
  • Accelerated online doctoral degree programs in psychology can take as little as two to four years!
  • While accelerated online doctoral degree programs take less time to finish than traditional ones, they do require students to carry a heavier workload.

Earning a PhD in psychology can open doors to prestigious career opportunities, but the long time commitment often deters busy professionals. For those looking to expedite the process, there are accelerated online doctoral programs that allow you to obtain your psychology PhD faster without sacrificing rigor or quality.

We’ve done the research to rank the top accelerated online psychology doctorates focused on speed, flexibility, academic excellence, and value - allowing you to further your career on your own time.

Featured Programs

The Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorate Degrees

Below are the fastest online PsyD programs you can apply to. They’re all excellent schools offering online psychology programs that you can remotely attend.

TLDR? If you’re the best PsyD program that you can complete the fastest online, Alliant International University is going to be the best choice for you. You can get a Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology in two years, which is very fast to earn a PhD in psychology.

Opened book and pen with a laptop on the table
  1. #1

    George Washington University

    Washington , DC
    #23 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    49%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    30K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1410/32

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at George Washington University

    Cost of Degree: $35,154
    Expenses: $19,325
    Starting Salary: $77,387
    Salary after 4 years: $95,101
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is George Washington University known for?

    George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Because of its campus location, academic rigor, and distinguished faculty, George Washington University confidently offers students a global-impacting education. GWU gives students learning opportunities inside and outside the classrooms, thanks to its partnership with the community and access to start-up and Fortune 500 firms. Additionally, GWU provides various funding options to support unpaid internships to help students have the best GW experience without worrying much about their educational costs.

    Additionally, GWU’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology is an on-campus degree designed to help students earn a doctorate faster. Students will complete four years of clinical psychology education and training, which includes three years of focusing on coursework and a year of internship. Students without a master’s degree in psychology can earn one while earning a doctorate.

    The school’s accelerated programs, like the PsyD doctoral program focuses on equipping students with the necessary skills and information to assess and manage psychopathology and seek employment in various professional settings. During their second year, students will choose one of the program’s three tracks as a major area of study: Adult, Assessment, or Child and Adolescent.

    • Required Credits: 83
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about George Washington University

    The location is the best thing about GWU. Students have access to thousands of internship opportunities, which can help them obtain employment immediately after graduation.

    George Washington University is great for students who:

    Want to live in a fast-paced environment and become active in school and social activities.

    George Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a quiet campus and one that offers more affordable psychology degree programs.

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  2. #2

    George Mason University

    Fairfax , VA
    #11 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    47K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/28

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at George Mason University

    Cost of Degree: $17,446
    Expenses: $19,933
    Starting Salary: $89,800
    Salary after 4 years: $103,494
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is George Mason University known for?

    George Mason University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    George Mason University is Virginia’s most diverse public research institution, offering over 200 majors that lead to bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees. GMU is known to prepare students to pursue fulfilling lives and prosperous careers through a well-rounded curriculum and engaging campus community. Its on-campus degrees are also famous for offering fast and accelerated courses for students in doctoral programs that can be completed quickly.

    GMU offers one of the shortest on-campus doctoral programs in psychology. The PhD in Psychology allows students to transfer up to 30 credit hours from their master’s degree in psychology, which will help them approach their final projects faster and graduate earlier. Doctoral students obtain expertise in the fundamental areas of psychology and receive hands-on experience to help address issues in relationships, the workplace, and education.

    The program’s concentrations include Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Human Factors/Applied Cognition, Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, Clinical Psychology, and Applied Developmental Psychology.

    • Required Credits: 72-79
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about George Mason University

    Diversity and inclusivity.

    George Mason University is great for students who:

    Want to live in a busy city and campus.

    George Mason University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Thrive with individualized attention and one-on-one interactions with advisors.

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  3. #3

    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

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Saint Louis University

    Cost of Degree: $24,494
    Expenses: $20,640
    Starting Salary: $60,952
    Salary after 4 years: $74,903
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Saint Louis University known for?

    Saint Louis University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    St. Louis University is the first Catholic university in the US and one of the only 15 Catholic universities to receive a very high classification for research from the Carnegie Foundation. In addition to its ground-breaking research, SLU is known for fostering deep dedication to faith and service and having more than 1.6 million hours of volunteer work annually.

    SLU’s PhD in Clinical Psychology offers a fast four-year curriculum for students who enter the degree program with a master’s degree. While this PhD program primarily focuses on adult clinical psychology, students can choose their major study area. Specializations include Clinical Child Psychology, Trauma Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, Health Psychology, Or Sports Psychology.

    There is a required on-campus training in psychological assessment by the Psychological Services Center. Additionally, students can receive training in health psychology, pediatric and clinical child psychology, academic psychology, and neuropsychology.

    • Required Credits: 78
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about St. Louis University

    The individualized teaching style that helps students reach their full academic potential.

    St. Louis University is great for students who:

    Thrive in a close-knit community and enjoy studying with other people.

    St. Louis University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Avoid social interactions. SLU encourages students to participate in school activities and form lifelong bonds.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    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 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
    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: $42,020
    Expenses: $26,770
    Starting Salary: $72,879
    Salary after 4 years: $89,561
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Pepperdine University known for?

    Pepperdine University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Pepperdine University, a Christian university, is dedicated to offering the highest academic performance standards and Christian principles. Because Pepperdine is also a liberal arts university, its 45 majors and 47 minors include liberal arts foundational courses and courses related to Christianity. Pepperdine, however, is one of the most expensive institutions.

    Nevertheless, many students still choose to enroll at the university because of the supportive faculty and rigorous academic programs.

    The on-campus PsyD in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University has an average graduation time of 4 years—half the average completion time of most doctoral programs. This psychology online doctorate degree program uses a practitioner-scholar paradigm, combining academic study, clinical practice, and research.

    Doctoral students must follow the program’s strict timetable and complete coursework within three years and internship and clinical dissertation within a year.

    This fast PysD is best suited for students who can fully commit all their time and effort to the program. Students have four university-based clinics serving as practical training locations and three external training rotations around southern California. The extensive hands-on training will prepare students to become licensed psychologists.

    • Required Credits: 82
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Pepperdine University

    The beautiful campus and supportive faculty. Faculty members offer individualized attention to each student and guide them toward success.

    Pepperdine University is great for students who:

    Thrive in a small, tight-knit campus community.

    Pepperdine University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to explore diverse curricular offerings and thrive in large-sized campuses with many school parties.

    Compare school
  5. Male psychologist speaking to a child
  6. #5

    Alliant International University

    San Diego , CA
    #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: $19,129
    Starting Salary: $61,233
    Salary after 4 years: $75,250
    What is Alliant International University known for?

    Alliant International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Alliant International University offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs that help students obtain the skills and knowledge necessary for their fields. Alliant is mainly known for its graduate and online degree programs. Additionally, Alliant emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, practicals, consulting, and community service initiatives to help students receive the professional practice they need.

    One of Alliant’s vastly known online doctoral programs is the accelerated Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology. With only two years of average completion time, this PsyD is one, if not the shortest, online doctoral program. This program has an 8-week calendar with 11 terms and 4 phases. The second year offers the PsyD project’s Final Phase, and students are expected to complete it by the end of their second year.

    Only those with a master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field will be eligible for this fast and accelerated online PsyD program. Additionally, applicants with a license or certification in school psychology can obtain the School Psychology Track.

    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Alliant International University

    Alliant’s recognition as one of the country’s most military-friendly universities and being a top provider of graduate degrees for minorities for the past six years.

    Alliant International University is great for students who:

    Want diversity but still be able to attend small-sized classes.

    Alliant International University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Wish to have plenty of time for Greek life.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    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

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Liberty University

    Cost of Degree: $8,340
    Expenses: $21,458
    Starting Salary: $38,881
    Salary after 4 years: $47,781
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Liberty University known for?

    Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Liberty University is one of the most prominent Christian liberal arts colleges that emphasizes faith and competitive learning and is a pioneer in online education. On the other hand, non-Christian students can also apply for Liberty’s degree programs. The institution offers over 700 academic majors and degree programs with cutting-edge technology and esteemed faculty.

    Liberty is also known to offer fast-paced online doctorate programs, one being the online PhD in Psychology designed for graduate students who want a better grasp of psychology and human behavior. Students can transfer up to 50% of their previous credit hours to the PhD program to help them finish their online doctorate faster than the program’s 3-year average completion time.

    This online accelerated online PhD doctoral degree program specializes in Behavioral Health Leadership, Developmental Psychology, General Psychology, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Social Psychology, and Theology. Online graduate students have optional on-campus intensives to meet with peers and faculty for better engagement.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Liberty University

    The doctoral programs that help students simultaneously strengthen their faith and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for their chosen field

    Liberty University is great for students who:

    Want to put Christ in the middle of their learning.

    Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer not to get involved in religion.

    Compare school
    8. Bearded patient speaking to a male psychologist

  9. #7

    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

    Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Walden University

    Cost of Degree: $10,657
    Starting Salary: $58,698
    Salary after 4 years: $72,134
    What is Walden University known for?

    Walden University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Walden University is a top-ranked institution for offering comprehensive online degree programs and allowing students to choose between Course-Based Learning and Tempo Learning formats. Students looking for more flexible ways to earn a degree often choose the Tempo Learning format, while those who prefer a fast-paced and more engaging curriculum prefer Course-Based Learning.

    Walden offers a hybrid PhD in Psychology with a fast-track option. Unlike the traditional 2 courses per term plan, online doctoral students who enroll in the fast-track option should follow a strict 3 courses per term plan. This accelerated degree program aims to cut the average completion time to half; traditional students complete the PhD program in eight years, while those in the fast-track doctoral program can complete all coursework in four years.

    Eligible online students can choose from six tracks/concentrations: Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, Research in Psychology, Self-Designed, Social Psychology, or Teaching in Psychology.

    • Required Credits: 65
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Walden University

    Walden is greatly known for offering opportunities for busy working adult students to earn a flexible and affordable degree.

    Walden University is great for students who:

    Are busy with their personal or professional lives and have no time for traditional classes.

    Walden University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want a traditional college experience, such as Greek life, living in a dorm, and on-campus classes.

    Compare school
  10. #8

    University of Arizona Global Campus

    San Diego , CA
    #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration #18 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: $44,704
    Salary after 4 years: $54,937
    What is University of Arizona Global Campus known for?

    University of Arizona Global Campus’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    The University of Arizona’s Global Campus is among the biggest and most progressive online campuses in the United States. UAGC has expanded into a national online organization dedicated to assisting adult learners in achieving their personal and professional goals from a small, traditional college. UAGC is mainly known for its accelerated 5- to 6-week courses, which fit students who want to earn their degrees faster but with the same curriculum and rigor.

    UAGC’s Doctor of Psychology is among the fastest online doctoral programs. Students are expected to follow a 4-year term, complete all coursework by the end of their third year, and focus on the Applied Doctoral Project during their fourth year. This accelerated online program is designed for students who can fully commit to their studies and aspire to become practitioners who desire to serve the community by enhancing their clients’ emotional and mental health.

    This program offers three specializations: Criminology and Justice Studies, Health and Wellness Psychology, and Sport and Performance Psychology. Applicants, however, must note that this is not a licensure program. Prospective online students outside Arizona should confirm with their state if this online program’s curriculum meets their state licensure examination requirements.

    • Required Credits: 62
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Arizona - Global Campus

    The opportunities to attend on-campus networking and other social events.

    The University of Arizona - Global Campus is great for students who:

    Are focused and committed to their studies.

    The University of Arizona - Global Campus might not be the best fit for students who:

    Do not have the determination and capacities to keep up with fast-paced courses.

    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Psychology Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Psychology

Degree Level: Doctorate

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $77,565
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $89,393
  • * denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists5.81%$147,420
Managers, All Other5.75%$133,560
Psychologists, All Other4.95%$117,750
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists13.28%$96,100
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary4.89%$82,140

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists$147,420
Managers, All Other$133,560
Psychologists, All Other$117,750
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.
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Why Are Accelerated Online Doctoral Programs in Psychology a Good Option?

For most working professionals, especially those who want opportunities for a tenure track in academia, PhD doctoral programs are the ultimate goal. However, traditional and most online programs take a long time to complete.

Unfortunately, many students don’t have the time or financial resources to enroll in traditional doctorate degree programs.

According to U.S. News & World Report data, the average time for completing a PhD is six to ten years. The curriculum in a traditional psychology PhD doctoral program involves up to 100 credits of advanced seminars, dissertation work, and research assistantships.

According to a report, the rate of students actually completing all coursework for their PhD doctoral programs in ten years is only 56.6%.

Bottom Line: A traditional doctorate degree program in psychology is a huge time and financial commitment to complete. On the other hand, an online doctoral degree in psychology can be completed in less time and potentially for a lower total investment.

Psychologist speaking to a patient
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PsyD Doctorate Degree vs. PhD Doctoral Program in Psychology

The most significant distinction between a PhD doctoral program in psychology and a Doctor of Psychology is the focus. Psychology PhDs focus on the theoretical and abstract aspects of psychology. On the other hand, PsyD programs typically concentrate on the application of information.

While both the PhD and PsyD in psychology are respected and rigorous advanced degrees, they cater to different career paths and interests within psychology. Prospective students should consider their long-term career goals, interest in research versus clinical practice, and the type of impact they wish to have when choosing between these two paths.

Educational Focus and Curriculum

PhD in Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology is deeply rooted in the science of psychology, emphasizing research methodology, statistical analysis, and the contribution of new knowledge to the field.

PhD programs often require students to engage in extensive research projects, culminating in a dissertation that contributes original academic research to the field. The curriculum typically includes a blend of coursework in advanced psychological theories, research methods, and statistical analysis, alongside teaching and research assistantships.

PsyD (Doctor of Psychology)

In contrast, the PsyD focuses more on the practical application of psychological knowledge to clinical settings. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for practice-oriented careers, with a stronger emphasis on clinical skills, assessments, interventions, and psychological testing.

PsyD programs still require research, but the projects often aim to inform clinical practice directly rather than advance theoretical knowledge. The dissertation may take a more applied form, focusing on case studies, program evaluations, or action research that has direct implications for practice.

Career Outcomes

PhD in Psychology

Graduates are typically prepared for academia, research, and high-level consulting careers. They may become professors, lead researchers in government or private sectors, or specialists in advanced psychological assessment and intervention strategies. A PhD is often preferred for those seeking tenure-track faculty positions or roles that prioritize research and theoretical knowledge.

PsyD

PsyD graduates are likelier to pursue careers in clinical settings, such as private practices, hospitals, mental health centers, and school districts. They are trained to be practitioners who apply psychological knowledge to diagnose, treat, and support individuals with mental health issues.

While PsyD holders can also engage in research, their primary focus tends to be on delivering psychological services directly to clients.

Research Component

PhD Programs

This requires a significant research component, with students expected to complete a dissertation based on original research that advances the field of psychology. The rigorous research process involves experimental design, data collection and analysis, and substantial literature review.

PsyD Programs

While research is still a component of PsyD programs, it is generally more applied, focusing on practical issues in clinical practice. The dissertation may involve empirical research but is often more focused on outcomes relevant to clinical settings.

Man talking to his patient during a counseling session

Nature of Coursework

PhD Coursework

It tends to be more theoretical, focusing on the foundations of psychological science, research methodologies, and statistical analysis. Students may also engage in teaching, further preparing them for academic roles.

PsyD Coursework

It is more clinically oriented, emphasizing developing therapeutic skills, understanding diagnostic criteria, and applying psychological theories to clinical practice. PsyD students often spend more time in practicum placements or internships to gain direct clinical experience.

What Do We Mean by the Fastest Accelerated Doctorate and PhD Programs in Psychology?

Psychology doctorate degrees, especially PhDs, can take up to ten years to complete. Students who enroll in traditional coursework and follow the suggested course sequencing graduate within four to six years.

Accelerated online doctorate degree programs in psychology provide a quicker route to a degree for individuals who want to finish their studies sooner. These programs typically take from two to four years to complete.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Fast Accelerated Online Doctorates and PhD Programs

Many colleges offer accelerated PhD programs that guarantee faster degree completion. Prospective students with other important obligations may consider an accelerated degree program as they start selecting the best curriculum.

But just because accelerated online programs have a significant advantage, they still come with a cost.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of fast, accelerated online doctorate degree programs in psychology before enrolling in one.

Advantages

  • Time Efficiency: Accelerated programs allow students to complete their doctorate degrees in significantly less time than traditional programs, which is ideal for professionals eager to advance their careers without a lengthy educational hiatus.
  • Flexibility: Online formats offer the flexibility to study from anywhere, accommodating students with work, family, or other commitments that make attending on-campus classes challenging.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Completing a degree in a shorter timeframe can result in lower tuition fees and related costs, making it a financially attractive option for many students.
  • Intensive Learning: Accelerated programs are often more intensive, providing a rigorous curriculum that can quickly build advanced knowledge and skills.
  • Career Advancement: Graduates can enter or advance in the workforce sooner, potentially achieving professional goals and increasing earnings more quickly than through traditional routes.

Disadvantages

  • Workload Intensity: The accelerated pace means a heavier workload and less time to absorb and understand the material, which can be stressful and challenging for some students.
  • Limited Networking Opportunities: Online formats may offer fewer opportunities for in-person networking with peers and faculty, which can be a drawback for building professional relationships and collaborations.
  • Reduced Research Opportunities: Some accelerated programs may offer limited time for in-depth research, potentially impacting the quality or scope of the dissertation project.
  • Quality Concerns: There is a perception that accelerated programs may not provide the same depth of learning or prestige as traditional doctoral programs, which could affect post-graduation opportunities.
  • Self-Discipline Requirement: Success in accelerated online programs requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation due to the fast pace and the nature of remote learning.
  • Limited Specialization: Accelerated programs may offer fewer specialization options, making it difficult for students with niche interests to find a program that fits their specific research goals.

Prospective students should weigh these advantages and disadvantages when considering an accelerated online doctorate degree in psychology. The decision should align with their career objectives, learning style, and personal circumstances to ensure the best possible outcome from their educational investment.

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What Is the Workload in an Accelerated Doctoral Degree Program in Psychology?

The shortest doctoral program online in psychology typically attracts non-traditional students with other obligations. These prospective students either have family and work commitments or want a faster way to get that career boost.

The Heavy Workload of Accelerated Programs

For these students, attending six to ten years of graduate school is just not realistic.

While the prospect of obtaining a degree more quickly can be quite alluring, if the student is unprepared for the time commitment, the fast pace can become too much and resulting in failing and/or dropping out.

In accelerated doctorate degree programs, students must finish the coursework in a condensed amount of time. This means that students will take on a much heavier workload compared to obtaining a doctorate degree through a traditional program.

Meeting the Challenges of Accelerated Programs

So, instead of enrolling in the usual 2 courses per term, students usually enroll in at least 3 courses per term. Or the length of a term may be condensed.

According to the Carnegie Unit Report, a traditional 14-week course equates to at least 3 hours of weekly student involvement and 6 hours for a 7-week course, essentially doubling the workload.

The Journal of Continuing Higher Education published the result of their qualitative study of accelerated degree programs. Some faculty and critics of the study found that these programs hinder the information transfer process and prevent the content from moving to the student’s long-term memory.

In contrast, one professor in the same qualitative study stated that the increased pace of the accelerated classes raised attendance rates. Additionally, the fast-paced courses helped the students stay on task and prepare for class.

Using Competency-Based Course Completion Models

Many colleges that provide graduate degrees online have switched to competency-based course completion models. The capacity of a student to complete a course is independent of when they started.

Students must instead demonstrate proficiency in key knowledge and/or skill areas. They can now advance at their own pace as a result. Through quick mastery and progression, highly driven students can breeze through classes and save critical time.

Even better, accelerated degree programs frequently incur lower costs because you spend less time in school. Many students also choose online programs because they save money by forgoing some expenses and fees related to on-campus study.

Male psychologist with glasses in a blue suit

Learning Methods in Accelerated Online Psychology PhD Programs

Synchronous learning occurs when all of the students in a class are actively engaged in the learning process at the same time while listening to a lecture.

Asynchronous learning is learning on a student’s own time. They listen to pre-recorded lectures or complete guided projects or independent research.

Professors can choose synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid learning environments. In many accelerated online doctorate degree programs, professors often choose synchronous learning because of the rigid schedule.

A live lecture, live chat room, conference call, video conference, or Google Hangout are all used for synchronous learning.

Benefits of synchronous learning include:

  • Students can ask their professors questions in real-time.
  • Students develop a better sense of community and connection with peers and advisors.
  • Students feel more engaged.
  • Students develop enhanced collaboration skills.

Students can access recorded lectures, PowerPoint presentations, or reading assignments for asynchronous study at their convenience.

Benefits of asynchronous learning include:

  • Students can move forward with their education whenever, in whatever order, and at whatever speed they choose.
  • There is more time for students to consider what they have learned.
  • Shy or introverted students will feel more comfortable and feel less pressure talking with their professors or peers.
  • Students can participate in the same activities regardless of their location or time zone.

For students enrolled in remote education, the most significant disadvantage of synchronous learning is the need to be online at a specific time. This indicates that students are not free to access content whenever they wish. This can be a challenge for college students who have full-time jobs and other commitments like family.

Bottom Line: While synchronous learning is more engaging, asynchronous learning helps students engage with the material more deeply.

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Why Choose an Accelerated Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology

Accelerated online doctorate degree programs could appeal to people who wish to enter the workforce sooner rather than later. Most prospective students are already employed and want to change or develop careers.

Some students may want to finish a degree program they started in the past or pursue an advanced degree. Some people consider an accelerated degree a quick method to switch careers.

Those who want to complete their education relatively quickly should be certain of their major and long-term objectives. Students pursuing an accelerated online doctoral degree boost their chances of success if they have a strong work ethic and the ability to encourage themselves, regardless of their educational background or experience.

Female psychologist smiling at a patient
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Getting Started with an Accelerated Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology

Pursuing an accelerated PhD in psychology doctoral degree program is one of the hardest decisions in your life. Choosing the wrong program or university can cost you a fortune. So, it’s very important to do your research first.

Many universities claim that their accelerated online programs offer a comprehensive curriculum. This can only be proven through accreditation. The US Department of Education-approved accrediting agencies grant accreditation to the top colleges.

The following accrediting agencies grant regional accreditation in the United States:

Key Point: A college or university must be accredited in order to be eligible to offer financial aid to their students, even those in an online program. Visit the Federal Student Aid website for more information on applying for financial aid.

When considering online PhD programs, you can also see if the college or university is good by checking the following:

  • University’s name, history, and reputation
  • Student services and resources
  • Faculty credentials
  • Alumni network

If you have researched psychology online doctorate programs and have several on your wishlist, here are a few factors to include when comparing which university best suits your needs:

  • Admission requirements
  • Learning format
  • Online courses available
  • Specializations
  • Student-to-faculty ratio
  • Tuition and financial aid
  • Residency, internship, or practical requirements
  • Transfer credits
Male psychologist listening to a female psychologist

Career Outlook for Students with Psychology Degree

Earning a doctoral degree in psychology opens rewarding career opportunities in many settings. Those who obtain a PhD or PsyD in psychology are trained for careers in research, counseling, consulting, teaching, and more. These psychology doctorate holders are qualified to work in healthcare organizations, schools and universities, government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations.

Specifically, having a psychology doctorate degree enables individuals to work in advanced clinical positions as psychologists and counselors/therapists. A doctorate allows them to diagnose, assess, provide therapy, and treat patients across the lifespan.

Those with doctorates can work in private or group practice, hospitals, community health centers, schools, prisons, research facilities, and other settings. In addition, they may conduct psychological research or teach psychology at the university level.

Demand for these positions is projected to grow above average over the coming decade. Other occupations where a psychology doctorate is preferred include positions as sports psychologists, industrial-organizational consultants, cognitive/perception scientists, and forensic psychologists supporting the legal system.

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Related Questions

What Is the Shortest PhD in Psychology Program?

The shortest PhD in Psychology programs available online are designed to be completed in a significantly reduced timeframe compared to traditional doctoral programs. These accelerated programs can often be completed in 2-4 years, depending on the student’s pace, the structure of the program, and prior academic credits that may apply.

They combine intensive coursework with practical research and dissertation work, offering a fast track to achieving a doctoral level of education in psychology. This expedited route particularly appeals to professionals looking to advance their careers without the time commitment required by traditional PhD programs.

Can You Skip a Masters and Get a PhD in Psychology?

Yes, it is possible to skip a master’s degree and directly pursue a PhD in Psychology in some programs. These integrated programs are designed to take students from undergraduate to doctoral level studies in psychology, combining the coursework and research requirements of both a master’s and a PhD into a single streamlined program.

This pathway allows motivated and qualified students to accelerate their academic and professional careers in psychology. However, admission into such programs can be highly competitive, and candidates may need to demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, research experience, and readiness for advanced study.

Is It Possible to Get a PhD in Psychology in 1 Year?

Completing a PhD in Psychology in just 1 year is highly improbable. PhD programs in psychology typically require extensive coursework, comprehensive exams, and a significant amount of original research leading to a dissertation.

The process is designed to ensure a deep level of expertise and competency in the field, which cannot feasibly be achieved in such a short timeframe. While you can complete some programs in 2 years, most accredited PhD programs in psychology take at least 4 to 6 years to complete, even with accelerated options.

Conclusion

Choosing a career path in psychology can be a lot of work yet rewarding. If you’re looking for online psychology doctorate programs that you can quickly finish, we recommend checking out one of the ones we’ve shared.


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