Earning a PhD in psychology can lead to exciting career opportunities, but the long time required for completion often discourages busy professionals. For individuals who want to finish the process more quickly, accelerated doctoral programs provide a faster way to earn a psychology PhD without lowering academic standards or program quality.
We have reviewed popular accelerated in-person and online psychology doctorate programs based on speed, flexibility, academic strength, and value. This allows you to continue building your career on a schedule that works for you.
Shortest PsyD and PhD Degrees in Psychology
Pepperdine University
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Pepperdine University is committed to offering high academic standards. As a liberal arts university, Pepperdine includes liberal arts foundation courses and Christianity-related courses within its 45 majors and 47 minors. Even so, Pepperdine is known as one of the most expensive institutions.
Even with the high cost, many students still choose to attend the university because of its supportive faculty and strong academic programs.
The on-campus PsyD in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University has an average graduation time of 4 years, which is half the average completion time of many doctoral programs. This doctoral psychology program follows a practitioner-scholar model, combining academic study, clinical practice, and research.
Doctoral students must follow the program’s strict schedule and finish course work within 3 years, while the internship and clinical dissertation must be completed within 1 year.
This fast PsyD program is best suited for students who can give their full time and effort to the program. Students have access to 4 university-based clinics that serve as training sites, along with 3 outside training rotations in Southern California. This broad hands-on training helps prepare students to become licensed psychologists.
- Required Credits: 82
- Completion Time: 4 years
- Format: On-campus
St. Louis University
PhD in Clinical Psychology
St. Louis University is the first Catholic university in the United States and is one of only 15 Catholic universities to receive a very high research classification from the Carnegie Foundation. Along with its leading research work, SLU is also known for its strong commitment to faith and service, and for completing more than 1.6 million hours of volunteer work each year.
SLU’s PhD in Clinical Psychology offers a 4-year curriculum for students who enter the degree program with a master’s degree. Although this PhD program mainly centers on adult clinical psychology, students may choose their major study area. Available specializations include Clinical Child Psychology, Trauma Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, Health Psychology, and Sports Psychology.
The program includes required on-campus training in psychological assessment through the Psychological Services Center. In addition, students may receive training in health psychology, pediatric and clinical child psychology, academic psychology, and neuropsychology.
- Required Credits: 78
- Completion Time: 4 years
- Format: On-campus
George Mason University
PhD in Psychology
George Mason University is Virginia’s most diverse public research institution, and it offers more than 200 majors that lead to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. GMU is recognized for helping students prepare for meaningful lives and successful careers through a well-rounded curriculum and an active campus community. Its on-campus degree programs are also known for offering fast and accelerated course options for doctoral students who want to complete their studies in less time.
- Required Credits: 72-79
- Completion Time: 4 years
- Format: On-campus
George Mason University 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 a master’s degree in psychology, which can help them move more quickly toward their final projects and finish the degree sooner. Doctoral students build knowledge in the basic areas of psychology and receive hands-on experience to help address issues in relationships, the workplace, and education.
The program offers the following concentrations:
- Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Human Factors/Applied Cognition
- Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
- Applied Developmental Psychology
George Washington University
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
George Washington University offers education with broad reach because of its campus location, strong academic standards, and respected faculty. GWU gives students learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom through its community partnerships and access to start-up companies and Fortune 500 firms. The university also offers different funding options to support unpaid internships, helping students make the most of their GW experience without carrying as much concern about education costs.
GWU’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology is an on-campus degree designed for students who want to complete a doctorate in less time. Students complete 4 years of clinical psychology education and training. This includes 3 years centered on course work and 1 year of internship. Students who do not already have a master’s degree in psychology can earn one while working toward the doctorate.
The university’s accelerated programs, including this PsyD program, are designed to prepare students with the knowledge and skills needed to assess and manage psychopathology and seek employment in many professional settings. During the second year, students choose 1 of the program’s 3 tracks as a main study area: Adult, Assessment, or Child and Adolescent.
- Required Credits: 83
- Completion Time: 4 years
- Format: On-campus
Liberty University
Online PhD in Psychology
Liberty University is recognized as an early leader in online education. The institution offers more than 700 academic majors and degree programs, supported by modern technology and respected faculty.
Liberty is also known for offering fast-paced online doctoral programs. One example is the online PhD in Psychology, which is designed for graduate students who want a stronger understanding of psychology and human behavior. Students may transfer up to 50% of their previous credit hours into the PhD program, which can help them complete the degree faster than the program’s average 3-year completion time.
This accelerated online PhD program offers the following areas of specialization:
- Behavioral Health Leadership
- Developmental Psychology
- General Psychology
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Social Psychology
Online graduate students also have the option to attend on-campus intensives where they can meet with classmates and faculty for stronger academic connection and engagement.
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: 3 years
- Format: Online
Walden University
Online/Hybrid PhD in Psychology
Walden University is a highly regarded institution known for offering online degree programs and giving students the choice between Course-Based Learning and Tempo Learning formats. Students who want greater flexibility in earning a degree often choose the Tempo Learning format, while students who prefer a faster-paced and more active curriculum often choose Course-Based Learning.
- Required Credits: 65
- Completion Time: 4 years
- Format: Online/Hybrid
Walden offers a hybrid PhD in Psychology with a fast-track option. Instead of the usual 2-course per term plan, online doctoral students who select the fast-track option must follow a strict 3-course per term schedule. This accelerated degree plan is intended to reduce the average completion time by half. Students in the standard format usually complete the PhD program in 8 years, while students in the fast-track doctoral option may complete all course work in 4 years.
Eligible online students may choose from 6 tracks or concentrations:
- Educational Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Research in Psychology
- Self-Designed
- Social Psychology
- Teaching in Psychology
Alliant International University
Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology
Alliant International University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs that help students gain the skills and knowledge needed for their professional fields. The university is especially known for its graduate and online degree programs. In addition, Alliant places strong attention on hands-on learning through internships, practicals, consulting, and community service activities, helping students gain the professional practice they need.
One of Alliant’s well-known online doctoral programs is the accelerated Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology. With an average completion time of only 2 years, this PsyD is one of the shortest online doctoral programs. The program follows an 8-week calendar with 11 terms and 4 phases. During the second year, students complete the final phase of the PsyD project, and they are expected to finish it by the end of that second year.
Only applicants who hold a master’s degree in psychology or a closely related field are eligible for this fast online PsyD program. In addition, applicants who already have a license or certification in school psychology may qualify for the School Psychology Track.
- Required Credits: 50
- Completion Time: 2 years
- Format: Online
University of Arizona Global Campus
Online Doctor of Psychology
The University of Arizona’s Global Campus is one of the largest and most forward-moving online campuses in the United States. UAGC has grown from a small, traditional college into a national online institution focused on helping adult learners reach their personal and professional goals. UAGC is especially known for its accelerated 5- to 6-week courses, which are suited for students who want to finish their degrees more quickly while still completing the same curriculum and academic rigor.
UAGC’s Doctor of Psychology is one of the fastest online doctoral programs. Students are expected to follow a 4-year plan, complete all course work by the end of the third year, and then focus on the Applied Doctoral Project during the fourth year. This accelerated online program is designed for students who can give full attention to their studies and want to become practitioners who serve the community by improving the emotional and mental health of their clients.
This program offers 3 specializations:
- Criminology and Justice Studies
- Health and Wellness Psychology
- Sport and Performance Psychology
Applicants should note that this is not a licensure program. Prospective online students who live outside Arizona should check with their own state to confirm whether this online program’s curriculum meets that state’s licensure examination requirements.
- Required Credits: 62
- Completion Time: 4 years
- Format: Online
Saybrook University
Online PhD in Clinical Psychology
The online doctorate in psychology at Saybrook University does not require the GRE for admission. This PhD program offers 4 concentration options: Creativity Studies; Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health; Psychophysiology; and Existential, Humanistic, and Transpersonal Psychology.
The program takes 5 years to complete and includes 108 units of course work. Students complete classes such as Clinical Psychopharmacology, Social Psychology, and Advanced Research Methods. Before graduation, students must also complete a comprehensive exam, a professional internship, and a formal doctoral dissertation.
In addition to online classes, some residential conferences may also be required. Saybrook University is accredited by the Western Association of Colleges and Schools Senior University and College Commission to award this online doctoral program in psychology.
- Required Credits: 108 unites
- Completion Time: 5 years
- Format: Online
Capella University
Online Doctorate in Psychology
Capella University offers 5 online doctoral psychology programs that do not require the GRE. These programs are the PhD in Behavior Analysis, PhD in Psychology, PsyD in Clinical Psychology, PsyD in School Psychology, and EdS in School Psychology.
The PhD in Psychology includes 4 specialization options: General, Developmental, Educational, and Industrial/Organizational.
The PsyD in Clinical Psychology follows a more direct course plan and includes classes such as Advanced Psychological Testing, Strategies of Clinical Supervision and Consultation, and Theories of Psychotherapy.
The PsyD in School Psychology includes core courses such as Consultation and Collaboration in the Schools, Advanced Biological Psychology, and Child and Adolescent Development for School Psychologists.
Although most of the course work in these programs can be completed online, some in-person parts may also be required for each program. Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award these online no-GRE doctoral programs in psychology.
- Required Credits: 145 quarter credits
- Completion Time: 4-6 years
- Format: Online
The Chicago School
Online Doctorate in Psychology
The Chicago School offers 5 separate online doctoral programs in psychology that do not require the GRE. These programs include a PhD in Organizational Leadership, a PhD in International Psychology with an optional concentration in Trauma Services, a PhD in Business Psychology with tracks in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Consulting, a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis with a credentialing track, and an EdD in Educational Psychology and Technology.
Students may choose either part-time or full-time study, and hybrid format options are also available. Based on the program selected, students may complete courses such as Virtual and Global Leadership, Assessment of Psychosocial and Mental Health Reactions to Traumatic Stress, Experimental Analysis of Behavior, and Integrating Technology in Learning Systems.
The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Its online no-GRE psychology doctoral programs also hold separate accreditation from the American Psychological Association’s Commission on Accreditation.
- Completion Time: 4-6 years
- Format: Online
What Do We Mean by the Fastest Doctorate and PhD Programs in Psychology?
Psychology doctorate degrees, especially PhDs, can take up to 10 years to complete. Students who follow traditional course work and stay with the recommended course order often finish within 4 to 6 years.
Accelerated doctorate programs in psychology offer a faster path for individuals who want to complete their studies in less time. These programs usually take about 2 to 4 years to complete.
Can a no-GRE Doctorate in Psychology Be Completed Entirely Online?
Yes. It is possible to complete an online doctorate in psychology with no GRE requirement in a fully online format. However, many of these programs still require residencies. If residencies would create a problem for you, it is important to speak with an admissions counselor before you enroll so you can confirm the program’s exact requirements.
Why Should I Pursue an Online Doctorate in Psychology With No GRE Requirement?
An online psychology doctorate that does not require the GRE can be very convenient because you do not need to spend extra time or money taking this standardized test. In many cases, if you have already completed a master’s degree program, you likely already have the main qualifications needed to apply to this type of program.
What are the Pros and Cons of Fast Doctoral Programs in Psychology?
Many schools offer accelerated PhD programs that are designed to help students complete their degrees more quickly. Prospective students who have other major responsibilities may find an accelerated degree program worth considering when choosing the best curriculum.
Even though accelerated online programs offer an important benefit, they also come with trade-offs. Before enrolling, you should review both the positive and negative sides of fast accelerated online doctorate degree programs in psychology.
Pros
Time Efficiency: Accelerated programs allow students to complete their doctorate degrees in much less time than traditional programs. This can be a strong choice for professionals who want to move ahead in their careers without stepping away from work for a long period.
Flexibility: Online formats give students the freedom to study from different locations. This can help students who are balancing work, family, or other duties that make on-campus attendance hard.
Cost-Effectiveness: Finishing a degree in a shorter period may reduce tuition costs and related expenses. For many students, this makes the program a more financially appealing option.
Intensive Learning: Accelerated programs are often more demanding in a short period. This kind of structure can provide a rigorous curriculum that helps students build advanced knowledge and skills quickly.
Career Advancement: Graduates can enter the workforce sooner or move forward in their current careers more quickly. This may help them reach professional goals earlier and increase earnings faster than they might through a traditional path.
Cons
Workload Intensity: The faster pace leads to a heavier workload and gives students less time to fully absorb and understand the material. This can feel stressful and difficult for some students.
Limited Networking Opportunities: Online formats may provide fewer chances for face-to-face networking with classmates and faculty. This can be a disadvantage for students who want to build professional relationships and future collaborations.
Reduced Research Opportunities: Some accelerated programs may leave less time for detailed research. This may affect the depth or size of the dissertation project.
Self-Discipline Requirement: Success in accelerated online programs requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation. The fast pace and remote learning format make this especially important.
Can I Get a PhD in Psychology Without a Master’s Degree?
It is possible to enter a doctorate program in psychology without first earning a master’s degree. Many PhD programs accept applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field.
In addition, dual or joint-degree programs allow students with a bachelor’s degree to complete a master’s degree while also earning credit toward the doctorate.
Is an Online PhD in Psychology Respected?
You receive the same diploma whether you complete your doctorate online or in person. However, it is important to understand that certain online degrees may reduce your licensure options for entering clinical psychology careers.
What Makes Short PhD in Psychology Easier to Complete?
Programs often gain a reputation for being “easier” or faster when they reduce usual doctoral barriers without lowering academic quality. Several common features often explain why these programs can be completed more quickly.
- No Dissertation or Reduced Dissertation Requirements: Many programs replace the traditional 5-chapter dissertation with a capstone project, an applied research project, or a portfolio. This can greatly reduce the time needed for completion.
- Accelerated Formats: Shorter academic terms, such as 8-week courses, allow students to move through course work more quickly.
- Generous Transfer Credit Policies: Some schools allow students to transfer a large amount of earlier graduate credit toward the doctorate, which can shorten the total time needed for the degree. These policies are not the same at every institution. Certain schools allow the transfer of 50+ credits for eligible programs, but students should review each school’s transfer credit policy carefully.
- Structured and Well-Known Online Programs: Well-established online doctoral providers, such as Liberty University and Walden University, often provide clear course plans and student support systems that help students finish on time.
What are the Different Types of Short PhD in Psychology?
Fast-Track Two-Year Doctoral Studies
Online doctoral programs that can be completed in 2 years place strong attention on speed and efficient progress. These programs are often a strong choice for individuals who can study at an intensive level while managing their time carefully. Many professional areas, including education and business, offer these shorter degree paths.
Fast-track programs reduce time to completion through several features, including:
- A smaller number of required courses focused on main subject areas.
- Credit awarded for earlier graduate study.
- Shorter final projects in place of the traditional dissertation.
Standard Three-Year Doctoral Options
Three-year doctoral programs give students a balanced path toward earning the doctorate. Most online programs follow this general timeline. These programs commonly include the following features:
- Regular class schedules that are similar to those in campus-based programs.
- A combination of required courses and specialized subject areas.
- Full dissertation requirements.
- Flexible study time that can fit around work responsibilities.
Students in these programs can usually expect about 15-20 hours of work each week. The course load usually remains steady and manageable for many working professionals.
Extended Four-Year Research Programs
Programs that take 4 years give students more time to focus on research or to gain important direct practice. These programs are often well suited for fields that require a large amount of study time or real-world training.
Important parts of 4-year programs often include:
- Detailed research projects.
- Clinical practice hours.
- Extended dissertation work.
- Hands-on training.
Students in these programs may spend 20+ hours each week on:
- Reading research articles.
- Writing detailed reports.
- Working in labs or clinics.
- Meeting with advisors.
What are the Career Options With an Online Doctorate in Psychology?
An online doctorate in psychology can prepare graduates for clinical work as psychologists. At the same time, this degree may also lead to other career options. Some of these roles include school psychologist, marriage and family therapist, behavior analyst, research scientist, clinical educator, market research manager, and other related positions.
It is important to understand that your career options will depend on the exact type of degree you earn, along with any specializations, certifications, or endorsements you complete.
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