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Build professional skills that fit your career goals with a PhD in Psychology
Expand your opportunities for making a difference in people’s lives with an online PhD in Psychology. Our four specializations provide tools you can use to advance as a leader or consultant in areas like psychology, mental health, education, business or public policy.
PhD in Psychology program overview
The PhD in Psychology program is designed to help you master psychology theory and practice, contribute original research and strengthen your ability to consult, teach or lead in diverse professional settings.
As a PhD in Psychology student, you’ll begin with core courses that lay the foundation for your program and develop skills in key areas of the field. From there, you’ll move into coursework and residencies for your chosen specialization to grow your expertise and advance toward your dissertation.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our accreditations and recognitions.
Applicants to the PhD in Psychology program must provide the following information for admission:
- A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or from an internationally recognized institution
- Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
International applicants will be subject to additional admission requirements.
View full admission requirements for PhD in Psychology specializations: General Psychology, Behavior Analysis, Developmental Psychology, Educational Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology
International student requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
The total cost of your PhD in Psychology program will depend on your specialization, scholarships and finances, transfer credits, academic performance and other factors.
Find detailed tuition information and cost scenarios for PhD in Psychology specializations: General Psychology, Behavior Analysis, Developmental Psychology, Educational Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Choosing a PhD in Psychology specialization
Every doctoral journey is different. Your chosen specialization can help you leverage your unique passions and interests to advance your psychology expertise for the next phases of your career.*
- Learning outcomes
- Career exploration
General Psychology
- Think critically in response to psychological challenges
- Design, plan and conduct appropriate research in the field of psychology
Developmental Psychology
- Apply critical thinking skills in response to challenges in developmental psychology
- Design, plan and conduct research and/or evaluation to advance knowledge and practice in developmental psychology
Educational Psychology
- Design, plan and conduct research and evaluation to advance knowledge and practice in educational psychology
- Discern how humans learn, process and communicate information to create knowledge
Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Evaluate and apply critical thinking in response to behavior in the workplace
- Synthesize theoretical and research findings from the discipline of I/O psychology
General Psychology
- This program can help you prepare to work in diverse settings, such as academia, social services and health care
- Explore roles such as full-time psychology faculty and program administrator
Developmental Psychology
- Skills taught in this program can help you prepare for leadership in diverse areas, from higher education to advocacy
- Explore job titles such as developmental psychologist and program administrator
Educational Psychology
- This degree can help you prepare for opportunities in areas like higher education and corporate training
- Explore professional roles such as psychometrician, test administrator and curriculum manager
Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Skills taught in this program can apply in corporate, health care, military and industrial settings
- Explore job titles such as director of labor relations, and director of training and development
*Capella cannot guarantee any specific job, promotion, salary increase or other career outcomes. You will need to conduct your own research to understand what opportunities may be available to you. Note that some career paths may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications or other designations along with a degree.
Why choose a PhD in Psychology from Capella University?
Relevant, real-world learning
Your psychology coursework allows you to conduct research in consultation with Capella faculty.
Complementary coursework approach
Get direct, intensive experience with face-to-face residencies that enhance your online coursework and help you complete your program successfully.
Scholar-practitioner faculty
Learn the latest in theory and practice from experienced doctoral faculty actively engaged in their professions.