Psychology is one of the few disciplines where a doctorate level degree is a requirement to become licensed in most states. Thankfully, there are many PhD psychology programs to choose from. Some are even offered online! What are some of the things to know prior to enrolling in a program?

Capella University

Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

Take the next step to advancing in your chosen career. Become the good manager and leader that you are in today’s fast-paced, global business environment with Capella University’s PhD Programs:

Capella University also offers PhD programs in:

• PhD in Addiction Psychology
• PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
• PhD in Criminal Justice
• PhD in Curriculum and Instruction
• PhD in Educational Psychology
• PhD in Emergency Management
• PhD in General Advanced Studies in Human Behavior
• PhD in General Business
• PhD in General Information Technology
• PhD in General Organization and Management
• PhD in General Psychology
• PhD in Health Care Administration
• PhD in Human Resource Management
• PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• PhD in Information Security
• PhD in Information Technology Mgmt
• PhD in Information Technology Project Management
• PhD in Instructional Design for Online Learning
• PhD in IT Education
• PhD in K-12 Studies in Education
• PhD in Leadership
• PhD in Leadership for Higher Education
• PhD in Leadership in Educational Administration
• PhD in Multidisciplinary Human Services
• PhD in Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• PhD in Nursing Education
• PhD in Post-secondary and Adult Education
• PhD in Professional Studies in Education
• PhD in Project Management
• PhD in Public Safety Leadership
• PhD in Social and Community Services
• PhD in Special Education Leadership
• PhD in Training and Performance Improvement

Read more or get a program guide from Capella University.

PhD Psychology Programs

Top Psychology PhD Programs

US News & World Report publishes their list of top schools each year. Listed below are the top psychology graduate schools for 2012. Those with the same ranking receive the same overall score. These are campus based schools. However, some also offer online programs as well.

1.   Stanford University, (Stanford, CA)
1.   University of California (Berkeley, CA)
3.   Harvard University (Cambridge, MA)
3.   University of California (Los Angeles, CA)
3.   University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)
3.   Yale University (New Haven, CT)

How long does it take?

Depending on the university, PhD psychology programs take between 5-7 years to complete. Degree requirement vary slightly depending on what program you choose to enter. PsyD programs are geared for those that wish to go into practice and can be slightly shorter in duration than the PhD programs. In addition, the length of time it takes to complete a program will depend greatly on you, the student, and how much time you have to devote to your studies. There is typically a time constraint levied on students in which to complete their coursework, dissertation, and internship. This is typically 10 years.

How do I get in?

At the doctorate level, universities will expect their applicants to be the best of the best. This means, that it is up to you to make your application package stand out above your peers. Ensure that you have the best letters of recommendation, and take a lot of time preparing your personal statement.

Many careers allow you to move to the top of the field without earning your PhD. However, psychology is not one of them. The psychology field requires that you hold a PhD in order to qualify for many of the positions, including becoming a licensed psychologist. What can you expect from a psychology PhD program?

Walden University

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of The North Central Association.

Walden University offers Psychology degree programs that can help you determine the science and theory of mental development. Delve into the minds of diverse people and discover techniques to understand how the human minds work and why people behave the way they do.

Walden University offers the following Psychology Programs:

• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology – Counseling
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology – General
• Master of Science in Early Childhood Studies
• Master of Science in Education
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Forensic Psychology in the Community
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – General
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Mental Health Applications
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Program Planning & Evaluation in Forensic Settings
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Psychology & Legal Systems
• Master of Science in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – Forensic Counseling
• Master of Science in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – General
• Master of Science in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – TrauMaster’s in and Crisis
• Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling – Forensic Counseling
• Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling – General
• Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling – TrauMaster’s in and Crisis Counseling
• Master of Science in Psychology – Health Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology – Media Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology – Organizational Psychology & Nonprofit Management
• Master of Science in Psychology – Psychology of Culture
• Master of Science in Psychology – Psychology, Public Administration & Social Change
• Master of Science in Psychology – Social Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Clinical Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Counseling Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – General
• Ph.D. in Psychology – General Educational Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – General Research Evaluation
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Health Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Organizational Psychology
• Post-Doctoral Psychology Certificate – Clinical Child Psychology

Walden University offers classes year-round so that you can complete your degree at an accelerated pace. In addition, you can study anytime and anywhere that is convenient for you.

Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

Psychology PhD

Degree Types

There are two types of doctorate degrees in psychology.  The first is the traditional PhD. This program focuses on the research and science of psychology. Many people choose this path if they want to teach at the university level or work as a researcher. The other type of doctorate is the PsyD. This degree focuses more on being a practitioner. While those with a PsyD can also teach and perform research, those with a PsyD tend to go into practice.

What to Expect

A traditional psychology PhD program takes approximately 5-7 years to complete. This is dependent on the school you wish to attend and the specialization you choose, if any. The PsyD takes approximately 4-6 years to complete. The two programs are quite similar in their coursework. The main difference is during the dissertation process. Those earning a PhD will have to write their dissertation based on original research that they conduct. PsyD students will take a known problem and apply practical theory to it. This tends to take a shorter period than the PhD dissertation.

After Graduation

Psychologists who work in a clinical or private setting will need to be licensed. Each state has specific certification and licensing requirements. They may vary slightly. However, all states require that students hold a PhD, have completed an approved internship, and have 1-2 years of professional experience. In addition, they will have to pass an exam administered by their state’s licensing board. Only after all the requirements are met will they be considered a fully fledged psychologist.

Politics and policy go hand and hand. If you are looking to take your career in government to the next level, you may want to consider earning a PhD in public policy. There are many online and campus based programs to choose from. Some are even accelerated!

Walden University

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of The North Central Association.

Students with political inclination will have the chance to enhance their knowledge with Walden University’s Public Policy program:

• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Criminal Justice
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – General
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – International Non Governmental Organizations
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Law and Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Public Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Criminal Justice
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Emergency Management
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – General
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Interdisciplinary Policy Studies
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – International Non Governmental Organizations
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Law and Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Mixed-Model – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Policy Analysis
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Public Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace

Venture into the world of politics fully equipped with the theory and practices of political systems and behavior. And in keeping with the latest national political state, Walden ensures its students with the best and updated analysis through the efforts of its academe.
Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

PhD in Public Policy

What is Public Policy?

Public policy is the action the government takes to address an issue. This can involve implementing new legislation, laws, or regulations.  With a degree in public policy, students can work as legislators for their state or municipality. However, they can also work as lobbyists, advocates, and with special interest groups. These are the groups that work to influence the government and public policy.

What to Expect

PhD in public policy programs combine many of the social science fields into one program. These can include economics, sociology, policy analysis, and public management. The specifics for each school will vary. However, most programs will take 3-5 years to complete depending on how much time a student has to devote to their studies. The first two years typically consist of coursework and seminars. At the end of the coursework students will often have to pass a comprehensive written or oral exam. In addition, they will have to submit their prospectus for their dissertation.  The remaining years will be spent researching and writing the dissertation as well as some field work or internship. Dissertation findings will have to be defended orally in front of a university panel or board.

Summary

A degree in public policy can lead to many exciting and rewarding careers. You can help to shape the way our society runs and influence the government in the creation of different policies and laws. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the local, state, and national governments are the largest employers in the economy, and job options will continue to grow well within the next decade.

A career in psychology can be a very rewarding and challenging choice. Psychologists are in high demand and is one of the fields that requires a PhD in order to become licensed and rise to the highest ranks in the industry.

Walden University

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of The North Central Association.

Walden University offers Psychology degree programs that can help you determine the science and theory of mental development. Delve into the minds of diverse people and discover techniques to understand how the human minds work and why people behave the way they do.

Walden University offers the following Psychology Programs:

• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology – Counseling
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology – General
• Master of Science in Early Childhood Studies
• Master of Science in Education
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Forensic Psychology in the Community
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – General
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Mental Health Applications
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Program Planning & Evaluation in Forensic Settings
• Master of Science in Forensic Psychology – Psychology & Legal Systems
• Master of Science in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – Forensic Counseling
• Master of Science in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – General
• Master of Science in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – TrauMaster’s in and Crisis
• Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling – Forensic Counseling
• Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling – General
• Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling – TrauMaster’s in and Crisis Counseling
• Master of Science in Psychology – Health Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology – Media Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology – Organizational Psychology & Nonprofit Management
• Master of Science in Psychology – Psychology of Culture
• Master of Science in Psychology – Psychology, Public Administration & Social Change
• Master of Science in Psychology – Social Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Clinical Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Counseling Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – General
• Ph.D. in Psychology – General Educational Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – General Research Evaluation
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Health Psychology
• Ph.D. in Psychology – Organizational Psychology
• Post-Doctoral Psychology Certificate – Clinical Child Psychology

Walden University offers classes year-round so that you can complete your degree at an accelerated pace. In addition, you can study anytime and anywhere that is convenient for you.

Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

PhD in Psychology

Specializations

Prior to enrolling in a PhD program, you will need to reflect upon your ultimate career goals to determine what specialization to choose. The most common choice is that of a clinical psychologist. This is often what we think about when we hear the term “psychologist”.  Other specialties include counseling psychology, educational psychology, forensic psychology, and organizational psychology. Bear in mind that not all specialties will be available at each university.

Program Length

The program length will greatly depend on which doctorate degree in psychology you choose to pursue and which specialization. It is important to note that a PhD in psychology is not your only option at this level. You can also get a PsyD as well. The differences between the two degrees are subtle. A PsyD is more in tune with those that wish to go into the practice of psychology. A PhD is for those that wish to go into research or academia in the field of psychology. While both programs are similar in nature, the PsyD tends to take less time overall.

Program Requirements

Programs will vary depending on your specialization and which doctorate degree you choose to pursue. All programs will require that you take a series of courses. This part typically takes 2-3 years to complete. Upon successful completion, students will be required to research and write a dissertation. The findings from the dissertation will generally have to be defended in front of a university board and will often be published in a professional journal. In addition, some programs will require that students perform an internship as well. Only after successful completion of all requirements will the student be awarded the title of “doctor”.

Policy shapes the world we live in. Simply defined, it is the way the government identifies a public issue and addresses it. This applies to all forms and levels of government. If you want to shape the world at the highest levels, you may want to consider earning your PhD in public policy.

Walden University

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of The North Central Association.

Students with political inclination will have the chance to enhance their knowledge with Walden University’s Public Policy program:

• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Criminal Justice
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Emergency Management
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – General
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Interdisciplinary Policy Studies
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – International Non Governmental Organizations
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Law and Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Mixed-Model – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Policy Analysis
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Public Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace

Venture into the world of politics fully equipped with the theory and practices of political systems and behavior. And in keeping with the latest national political state, Walden ensures its students with the best and updated analysis through the efforts of its academe.

Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

PhD in Public Policy

The particulars of a program will vary from institution to institution. However, they will likely have the same commonalities. Students will be required to take a series of courses, a dissertation, and perhaps a research internship or practicum. Most programs take 5-8 years to complete depending on how much time the student has to devote to their studies. There are some online programs that are accelerated somewhat, although, the length of all programs will depend on you, the student.

The number of courses required in the program depends upon whether you choose a concentration. Some of the more common concentrations include economics, political science, and sociology. Topics may include political policy, strategy, organizational theory, and race and ethnicity. Students in online programs will complete their courses online but may be required to perform some campus residency during that period.

All students in a public policy PhD will also be required to complete an original research project or dissertation. The findings of this research will likely have to be defended orally in front of a university panel. The findings may also be published in a professional journal as well. Only after all of the courses have been completed and the dissertation successfully defended will the student be granted the title of “doctor”.

Searching for a PhD in Sociology?

Businesses and governmental bodies are in constant need of information about society and how it reacts or will react to certain things. This is where the discipline of sociology comes into play. In order to rise to the top of the career field, you may need to think about earning your PhD in sociology, however.

First of all, what exactly is a sociologist? A common misconception is that they perform the same functions as a psychologist. This is not the case, however. Sociologists look at how a society reacts to certain stimuli, whereas psychologists look at why. Sociologists research the way race, ethnicity, age, gender, and other social aspects affect businesses, industry, and society as a whole.

As with all PhD programs, a PhD in sociology will require that the student complete a series of courses and a dissertation. An internship or practicum may also be required depending on the institution and the program.

The coursework takes approximately 2-3 years to complete. It will consist of research theory classes and general sociology classes like industrial sociology, bureaucracy, cultural diversity, and gender differences.

The dissertation length will depend on how much time you, the student, have to devote to the research. Most universities will assign each student an advisor to help and guide them through the process. Findings will have to be defended orally in front of a university board.

A PhD in sociology can lead to many opportunities in a variety of environment. Sociologists are needed in politics, corporate America, industry, and non profit organizations.

Searching for a PhD Sociology Program?

Sociologists play an important role in understanding our society. They assist companies in understanding human behavior and often work with government agencies. By graduating from a PhD sociology program, you will be prepared to hold some of the highest positions in the field.

There are a few different concentrations available when earning a PhD in sociology. Demography, aging, social justice, and social psychology are a few offered at leading universities. However, it is important to note that not all universities offer each program. Be certain to contact your school prior to enrolling.

As with most PhD programs, students will be required to take a series of courses. This part of the program takes approximately 2-3 years to complete. Courses will be a combination of research methodologies courses and sociology major courses. Upon successful completion of the coursework, students will be required to research and write a dissertation based on original research they conduct. The findings of their study will have to be defended in front of a university board.

Since one of the main duties of a sociologist is to predict human behavior, many students go on to enter the fields of marketing, retail, and human ecology. They assist in determining site selections for new store and consumer research. Many sociology PhD holders also work with many nonprofit organizations. In addition, graduates may also choose to go into collegiate level academia.

Even if you feel you are too busy to pursue your degree, there are now many online sociology programs to choose from. These will allow you to pursue your studies at a time and place that is convenient for you.

PhD holders are currently in high demand in all professions. This is especially true in the accounting field. According to the American Accounting Association (AAA) the number of PhD qualified professors in accounting has been dwindling in recent years. This is making job openings for these graduates immense. There are now more and more accredited PhD accounting programs to choose from, both online and campus based.

Capella University

Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

Capella University offers PhD programs in:

• PhD in Accounting
• PhD in General Business Administration
• PhD in Finance
• PhD in General Organization and Management

Read more or get a program guide from Capella University.

PhD Accounting Programs

The number of PhD accounting programs has been growing in recent years. Many universities are starting to offer online programs as well. The admission requirements will typically vary depending on the school. However, most schools look for professional certifications, such as CPA and CMA, recommendations, and GMAT scores.

As with all PhD programs, a PhD in accounting requires a great deal of hard work and discipline. This is especially true of online programs where you are required to manage your time even more closely. The main difference between online and campus based programs is how the courses are delivered. The remaining components of the programs are typically very similar.

Accounting PhD students are also required to complete a research project or dissertation after their coursework. The research findings will have to be successfully defended in front of a university board and will often be published in a professional journal.

While a PhD program is a lot of work, with the number of open positions for those with a PhD in accounting, it may very well be worth your while. Online programs will allow you to continue your education with little interruption to your professional and personal commitments.

Searching for an Online PhD in Sociology?

Sociology is the study of our society. This can include political science, economics, and many other subsections of the societal structure. In order to rise to the highest levels in the profession, a doctorate is often needed. Thankfully, to aid busy professionals, there are now online PhD in sociology program.

In order to enroll in a sociology doctorate program, most universities will require that students have a masters degree. That degree may or may not be in sociology. There may be some prerequisites required as well.

In a sociology PhD program, a majority of the credits required for graduation will be consumed by the dissertation. Students will be required to take many classes that will prepare them for the research and writing intensive dissertation. There will also be traditional courses to help students understand societal models. These can include urban sociology and societal theory.

Upon graduation, a majority of sociology students find work in academia holding advanced teaching positions at the highest collegiate levels. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities for sociologists are expected to grow by 22% into the next decade. Salaries vary greatly depending on location and sector. According to the BLS, however, the average sociologist makes $68,500, although, some sociologist in the political or government sector can make upwards of $100,000 as strategists and researchers.

There are more and more online sociology PhD programs being offered. If you are a busy adult and think that a PhD is out of reach, you may find that an online program is right for you.

Public policy is what shapes the world we live in. The policy that is derived is to address a public issue facing the country. Legislation is enacted in order to combat the known issue. The policy makers that design these laws are often public policy PhD graduates.

Walden University

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of The North Central Association.

Students with political inclination will have the chance to enhance their knowledge with Walden University’s Public Policy programs:

• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Criminal Justice
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – General
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – International Non Governmental Organizations
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Law and Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Public Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Criminal Justice
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Emergency Management
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – General
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Interdisciplinary Policy Studies
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – International Non Governmental Organizations
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Law and Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Mixed-Model – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Policy Analysis
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Public Management and Leadership
• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace

Venture into the world of politics fully equipped with the theory and practices of political systems and behavior. And in keeping with the latest national political state, Walden ensures its students with the best and updated analysis through the efforts of its academe.

Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

Public Policy PhD

As with all PhD programs, students must complete a series of courses. These courses typically include core courses and concentration courses. Concentrations can include environmental policy, international development, decision making, Depending on the university and concentration, 16-20 courses may be required. Generally, a comprehensive written or oral exam will be required prior to moving on to the dissertation.

Often, students will submit their proposals for their dissertation during the coursework phase of the program. Once approved, they can begin formalizing the research study. The findings of the dissertation may have to be defended in front of a university board. In addition, some dissertations will be published in a professional journal.

Upon graduation, many students go on to become researchers and academics for a college or university. The most common career path is with local, state, and national governments. They can also hold elected positions in the government as well.

PhD programs can be very challenging and time consuming. If you think you don’t have time to complete a rigorous PhD program, there are many distance learning, part time, and executive PhD programs available. Some may even be 100 percent online allowing you to perform your studies from the comfort of your own home and at your own pace.