PhD Programs vs. PsyD Programs
Interested in comparing PhD programs vs. PsyD programs?
Many professional adults dream of earning their PhD. It is one of the most prestigious degrees you can hold in the United States and one that few have accomplished.
If you are considering returning to school for your doctorate degree you may be wondering which avenue to pursue, PhD programs vs. PsyD programs.
While each will earn you great respect, the main difference between them falls with what you would like to do upon graduation.
PhD Programs vs. PsyD Programs
To reiterate, both programs are equally challenging and very similar in nature. Neither one is actually better than the other is. The programs are even typically the same up until the point of the dissertation. The question you must answer involves your ultimate career goal. Do you want to go into research or practice?
PhD in Psychology
A PhD will help you with a career in research, science, or academia. Those with a PhD help to mold the minds of students and perform ground breaking research that can change the industry. The coursework section of the program will consist of a percentage of research type courses in preparation for the dissertation.
Walden University – Online PhD in Psychology Programs
Walden University offers accelerated classes: 8 week online classes.
Walden University’s doctoral programs have a unique blend of theory, research, and practical application to help you make an immediate and significant change in your life and in the lives of others.
PhD in Psychology Online
- 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
As a doctoral student, you will work closely with faculty in areas of study that are most meaningful to you. Faculty members serve as mentors and partners, offering both guidance and a fresh perspective on your research.
For the dissertation, you must perform an original research study. This must have a hypothesis that has not been proven previously. After the dissertation findings have been defended, most will be published in professional journals.
PsyD Degree Program
The PsyD is for those that want to practice psychology. It is a professional degree similar to that of a Juris Doctorate for a lawyer. This degree will help you to become a practicing psychologist. While the PhD focuses on the research techniques required, the PsyD focuses on the therapeutic techniques that are needed in everyday practice.
University of the Rockies – Doctor of Psychology Online
University of the Rockies offers the most extensive list of Doctor of Psychology programs online.
University of the Rockies doctoral programs have a unique blend of theory, research, and practical application to help you make an immediate and significant change in your life and in the lives of others.
Doctor of Psychology Online
- Doctor of Psychology – Business Psychology
- Doctor of Psychology – Educational Leadership
- Doctor of Psychology – Evaluation, Research & Measurement
- Doctor of Psychology – Executive Coaching Specialization
- Doctor of Psychology – Health and Wellness Psychology Specialization
- Doctor of Psychology – International Leadership
- Doctor of Psychology – Mediation and Conflict Resolution Specialization
- Doctor of Psychology – Mental Health Administration Specialization
- Doctor of Psychology – Non-Profit Management Specialization
- Doctor of Psychology – Organizational Consulting
- Doctor of Psychology – Organizational Diversity
- Doctor of Psychology – Organizational Leadership Specialization
- Doctor of Psychology – Sports and Performance Psychology
As a doctoral student, you will work closely with faculty in areas of study that are most meaningful to you. Faculty members serve as mentors and partners, offering both guidance and a fresh perspective on your research.
The dissertation will not be on new research. Rather, it will be on applying existing research on a specific psychological problem. It must still be original in the fact that the hypothesis has not been proved before.
The dissertation for a PsyD generally takes less time than the dissertation for a PhD. As with the PhD, however, the findings must be defended in front of a university committee.
PhD Programs vs. PsyD Programs Summary
While the two educational paths are very similar in nature, the career paths will vary greatly. Only you can decide what is the best route for you. It is important to look at your career goals closely prior to enrolling in a program. With the number of different online and campus based programs, you are certain to find one that suits your needs.