Academic Year in Residence

Online PhD in Psychology


Build a versatile, doctoral skill set in Walden’s PhD in Psychology program.
Build a versatile, doctoral skill set in Walden’s PhD in Psychology program.

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Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

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PhD in Psychology graduate speaking with a patient.

Online PhD in Psychology

Ready to Get Started?

Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Current 01 Step 1: About You
  • 02 Step 2: Contact Information

Why Walden?

TWO DEGREE TRACKS

Choose: Track 1 if you have a master’s in psychology or a related field; Track 2 if you have a bachelor’s or unrelated master’s.

EXPEDITED STUDY OPTION

Feeling ambitious? Complete your PhD in Psychology sooner and potentially save money on your degree through our Fast Track option.

DOCTORAL DEGREE COACH™

Map and track milestones, meet weekly targets, connect with faculty, and find support with this personalized digital resource.

SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY

Get personalized guidance at every step—Enrollment Specialists, peer mentors, writing coaches, tech support, and more.

PUT LEARNING INTO PRACTICE

Expand your knowledge, skills, and professional practice in one of four academic residencies (held virtually or in person).

PURPOSEFUL PROGRAMS

Expand your professional passions and tailor your coursework to fit your career plan in one of six areas of PhD specialization.

Specializations

Program Details

Learning Tracks

TRACK I: Choose this track if you have a master's degree in psychology or related field.

TRACK II: Choose this track if you have a GPA of 3.0 on bachelor’s degree or master's degree in unrelated field.

FAST TRACK: With our Fast-Track Option, you increase your course load each term and begin your dissertation early to expedite your path through the program.

Academic Residencies

Broaden your knowledge and shape your professional identity during this integral doctoral learning experience. Held both virtually and in person, academic residencies function much like a conference and provide valuable networking and collaborative opportunities with Walden faculty, staff, and peers.

Earn Your Master of Philosophy Degree Along the Way

Earning your doctoral degree is the ultimate intellectual challenge. To signify how far you’ve come in your journey to your PhD in Psychology, you will be eligible to be awarded a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree upon completion of certain or advanced program requirements prior to completing your dissertation.

Walden is one of a few universities that offer this advanced research master’s degree. Highlight your academic achievement and show employers and others that you possess comprehensive knowledge in your field of study.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for this doctoral program, you must have a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in a related field from an accredited school and meet the general admission requirements. All applicants must submit a completed online application and transcripts. More information for international applicants.

Your Doctoral Journey

At Walden, we’ll guide you every step of the way with a comprehensive suite of support resources designed to help you confidently pursue the finish line, including our Doctoral Degree CoachTM. Are you ready to reach a higher level in your field?

A smiling woman wearing a graduation gown.

 

Tuition and Fees

Standard Option – Track I

CurriculumRequirementsCostTotal *
Tuition-Coursework65 quarter credits $620 per quarter hour for coursework credits$40,300^
Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project 20–125 quarter credits$620 per quarter hour for dissertation credits$12,400–$77,500*
Program Fee $175 per quarter$1,925–$5,600*
Residency FeeFour Residencies$1,420 each (virtual)
$1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional)
$5,680–$6,080
Estimated Range:  3-Year8-Year
   $60,305$129,480 *+
   (assuming completion in a 3-year timeframe)(assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe)

Fast Track – Track I

CurriculumRequirementsCostTotal *
Tuition-Coursework5 terms$7,325$36,625^
Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project 15–140 quarter credits$620 per quarter hour for dissertation credits$9,300–$86,800*
Program Fee $175 per quarter$1,400–$5,600*
Residency FeeFour ResidenciesIncluded in tuition$0
Estimated Range:  2.5-Year8-Year
   $47,325$129,025 *+
   (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe)(assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe)

These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.

Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.

Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.

^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.

Based on a 2.5 to 3-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.

*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.

+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.

Standard Option – Track II

Curriculum ComponentRequirementsCostTotal *
Tuition-Coursework90 quarter credits $620 per quarter hour for coursework credits$55,800^
Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project 20–110 quarter credits$620 per quarter hour for dissertation credits$12,400–$68,200*
Program Fee $175 per quarter$2,450–$5,600*
Residency FeeFour Residencies$1,420 each (virtual)
$1,520 each (travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) 
$5,680–$6,080
Estimated Range:  3.25-Year8-Year
   $76,330$135,680*+
   (assuming completion in a 3.25-year timeframe)(assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe)

Fast Track – Track II

Curriculum ComponentRequirementsCostTotal *
Tuition-Coursework & Dissertation 6 terms$7,325 per term$43,950^
Tuition-Dissertation 15–135 quarter credits$620 per quarter hour for dissertation credits$9,300–$83,700*
Program Fee $175 per quarter$1,575–$5,600*
Residency FeeFour ResidenciesIncluded in tuition$0
Estimated Range:  2.5-Year8-Year
   $54,825$133,250*+
   (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe)(assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe)

These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.

Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.

Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.

^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.

Based on a 2.5 to 3-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.

*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.

+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.

Doctoral Degree Coach™: A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate

Earning your online PhD in Psychology requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach™.

  • Map and Track Milestones: Break your research down into manageable, sequential steps. See where you are, what’s ahead, and what you’ve already accomplished—all in one place.
  • Meet Weekly Targets: No more guesswork. Set prompts based on your to-do list and receive reminders and updates directly to your inbox.
  • Connect With Faculty: Stay on the same page and keep your progress on track. With shared access to your dashboard, your chair can easily guide you through your checklists, goals, and timelines.
  • Access Helpful Resources: Quickly find support from the right person at the right time. Our comprehensive resource guide points you in the right direction—no more frustrating searches.

Program Outcomes

Impact the Psychology Field at a Higher Level

Change people’s lives—and the psychology field at large—by gaining next-level skills you can apply in teaching, research, program evaluation, and consulting. Tailor your PhD in Psychology coursework to the career you want with one of six specializations that combine classic theory with real-world application. Take advantage of robust dissertation support from early on in your program and get an edge in reaching the doctoral finish line. Prior to your dissertation, you have the option of choosing between a teaching and research practicum to gain intensive practical experience.

 

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this online PhD in Psychology program will be prepared to:

  • Apply principles of basic and advanced research methods to produce independent scholarly research.
  • Apply relevant ethical codes (e.g., APA) to decision making with diverse populations in various settings.
  • Promote social change through the integration of principles of psychology in scholarly and/or professional activities.
  • Communicate effectively to a variety of stakeholders and audiences.
  • Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of psychology-specific knowledge and theory to improve the condition of individuals, groups, and organizations.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing empirically supported models for teaching, consultation, and research.
  • Develop a professional identity appropriate to one’s professional goals.

Resources

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FAQ About Walden's Online PhD in Psychology

How long does it take to get a PhD in Psychology?
The amount of time it takes to complete your PhD in Psychology will depend on your previous educational experience and how long you work on your dissertation. The PhD in Psychology program offers a Track I for those entering with a master’s degree in psychology or a related field and a Track II for those entering with a bachelor’s degree or with a master’s degree in an unrelated field. Students in Track I complete a minimum of 85 quarter credits and students in Track II complete a minimum of 110 quarter credits. There is also a Fast-Track option, in which students take additional courses and begin their dissertation early to expedite their path through the program. The minimum amount of time required to complete the coursework and dissertation is 2.5 years. Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements.
Do you need a master’s to get a PhD in Psychology?
No. You can enter Walden’s program with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school.
What is the difference between a PhD in Psychology and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)?

There are some key differences between the two programs. PhD psychology programs are plentiful, but also fairly competitive, with more rigorous admission criteria. Because of the strong focus on research, it’s an ideal track for students interested in academia and research.

PsyD programs were developed as an alternative to PhD psychology programs and are usually more hands-on. Like a PhD in Psychology, the PsyD prepares students to be a psychology professional in a wide range of settings. A PsyD, however, focuses more on practice and less on research and academia. As a result, this degree requires fewer research and statistics courses and typically takes less time.

What can you do with a PhD in Psychology?

Pursuing a PhD in Psychology can equip you with the expertise to qualify for a range of professional opportunities and enjoy a purposeful, long-lasting career helping others. Some of the positions possible with a PhD in Psychology include:

  • Educational consultant
  • Researcher
  • Political strategist
  • Professor

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of a degree program.

1Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) | Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary

2 BLS | Postsecondary Teachers : Occupational Outlook Handbook

Note on Licensure:
The PhD in Psychology is not a licensure program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology professional.

Note:
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic, such as tuition and fee increases; transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; writing, research, and editing skills; use of external data for the doctoral study/dissertation; and individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations, caregiving responsibilities, or health issues; leaves of absence; or other personal circumstances.