DOCTORAL DEGREES
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
Accredited by
- 10 high-growth specializations
- Faculty mentorship at every stage
- No GRE or residency required
Format
100% Online
Completion Time
This program is designed to be completed within 57 months. However, students who pursue this program at an accelerated rate may be able to complete the program in as few as 26 months.
57 Months
Credits
60
Average Cost Per Credit
$1,114
Program Overview
Why Get a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology?
As behavioral health needs continue to evolve, organizations are seeking doctoral-level psychology professionals to help shape the future of the field. National University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD-PSY) prepares you for what’s ahead with 10 specialization options, convenient weekly start dates, and a 100%-online format designed for working professionals.
Support for the Whole You
10 Specializations
Focus your studies in Counseling Psychology, Health Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and Trauma and Disaster Relief, and more.
Transfer-Friendly Credit
Up to 12 semester credit hours of qualifying doctoral coursework may transfer, reducing time and tuition toward your degree.
Expert Faculty Mentorship
Learn directly from doctoral faculty with real-world experience, offering personalized guidance at every stage of the program.
Dissertation Completion Pathway
Supports ABD students with three structured bridge courses, weekly faculty deliverables, and a clear path through defense.
Admission and Degree Requirements
Program Structure
1
Initial core coursework establishing the theoretical, ethical, and methodological grounding of your discipline.
2
Focused study within your chosen area of concentration and interest.
3
Mentored methods and design training that builds independent scholarly research capacity.
4
The gateway milestone involving an initial proposal establishing the foundational components of independent doctoral research.
5
Structured coursework designed to sequentially develop doctoral research with consistent faculty committee support.
*Program structure and progression may vary.*
Explore Our Courses
Review the required and concentration courses that support your academic growth and prepare you for future career opportunities.
Requirements for Doctoral Programs
20 COURSES
Foundations for Doctoral Study in Psychology
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
Students in this course will be prepared for success in the psychology doctoral program at the University. Students are introduced to relevant academic communities, professional standards, and doctoral-level expectations. Essential skills needed to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology are emphasized, including critical thinking, comprehending complex scholarly texts and research articles, and effective written communications. Students will identify and begin to explore potential research topics for use in their doctoral studies and complete the course with a roadmap to navigate their way to degree completion.
Scholarly Writing and Professional Communication in Psychology
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course focuses on scholarly and academic writing with an overarching goal of critically analyzing and thoughtfully synthesizing research findings while adhering to APA style and the principles of Academic Integrity. The emphases in this course are on how to (a) conduct effective literature searches; (b) critically review and summarize research studies; (c) write comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature; (d) formulate ideas and convey them in an ethical fashion; and (e) use feedback to revise and improve one’s work.
Standard Curriculum Course, if needed
Specialization Course 1
Research Methods
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This doctoral-level course focuses on the fundamentals of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches to psychological research. Students gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach, and how these methods apply to a research topic. The concepts of critical evaluating, published research, research ethics, and developing a research proposal will also be explored and practiced. In addition, it provides a foundation for subsequent research courses in preparation for successfully completing a dissertation at the University.
Statistics I
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course provides an introductory exploration of statistics for the graduate student. It includes instruction on the calculation, use, and interpretation of descriptive statistics, and introduces inferential statistical analysis. The emphasis of this course is on providing a working knowledge of basic statistical concepts to help the student understand statistical methodology used in psychology, and also more generally, developing a working knowledge of statistical usage in everyday life.
Specialization Course 2
Specialization Course 3
ONE OF THE FOlLOWING:
Tests and Measurements
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This doctoral course in tests and measurements provides the student conceptual as well as practical guidelines in test and scale construction. This course will expose the students to concepts and theories including: the nature of psychological constructs and concepts, measurements and measurement error, item construction and analysis, Classical Test Theory, and the different approaches to establishing instrument reliability and validity. Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills and concepts to a construct relevant to their own research interests.
Tests and Measurements in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This doctoral-level course will introduce the student to psychological test construction, administration and interpretation as well as current research in the area. Commonly used tests to assess cognition and personality will be studied.
(I/O specialization)
Specialization Course 4
Elective Course*
Specialization Course 5
Specialization Course 6
Advanced Quantitative Methods
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course you will examine the principles of quantitative research methodologies. Specifically, you will take a deep dive into the different types of quantitative research methodologies, when to use each, strengths/weaknesses, associated reliability/validity issues, and sampling methods. You will learn how to identify appropriate statistical analyses based on research questions and data considerations, as well as use SPSS to run, analyze, and interpret statistical results. You will explore how to examine, analyze, and interpret psychometric properties for existing instruments/measures in psychological research. Additionally, you will examine feasibility issues and ethical principles related to quantitative research methodologies. Scholarly writing and appropriate use of scholarly literature will be reinforced throughout this course.
Advanced Qualitative Methods
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this doctoral-level course, you will be immersed in the intricacies of qualitative research methods tailored for the psychology field. You will be introduced to a spectrum of methodological approaches and the foundational philosophical premises guiding them. Central to the course is hands-on application: you’ll gain the skills to adeptly navigate the stages of problem formulation, method selection, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. We place a strong emphasis on the ethical dimensions of research, ensuring you are well-versed in the ethical considerations intrinsic to qualitative studies. Moreover, we encourage you to adopt a critical lens when assessing study design, execution, and data interpretation. Research is not just about data; it is about sharing discoveries. This course ensures you develop advanced communication skills for disseminating your findings across diverse platforms. Plus, you’ll have opportunities to craft and present comprehensive qualitative research proposals. By the course’s conclusion, you’ll not only be proficient in methodologies but also gain a deeper appreciation for the depth and transformative potential of qualitative research in psychology.
Research Design Planning
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
This course focuses on how to conduct effective literature searches, specifically in preparation for the dissertation, develop a plan for writing comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature, and critically review and write about underlying theoretical frameworks that lay the foundation for future research. The overarching goal of this course is for students to conduct an extensive search of the peer-reviewed empirical and theoretical literature in their topic area and identify potential areas of inquiry for their dissertation.
Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline prior to candidacy status and demonstrated the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. Students will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer-reviewed research to support all assignments in this course. The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is completed only after all foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.
Components of the Dissertation
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will complete Chapters 1 and 2 of their Dissertation Proposal. Chapter 1 includes a brief review of the literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach, and the significance of the study, while Chapter 2 consists of the literature review, including the theoretical/conceptual framework. Completed and committee-approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 are required to pass this course successfully.
Completing the Dissertation Proposal
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will complete Chapter 3 and their Dissertation Proposal (DP). Chapter 3 includes the research methodology and design, population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. Students will then assemble their Dissertation Proposal including all appendices necessary. A completed, committee-approved Chapter 3 and a final approved Dissertation Proposal (against the minimum rubric standards) are required by the end of the course.
Data Collection and Analysis
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application. After obtaining IRB approval, students will collect data and submit a data collection verification form when data collection is complete. Students will begin synthesizing collected data and analyzing results. IRB study approval and a completed data collection verification form are required by the end of the course.
The Dissertation Manuscript and Defense
3.0 Doctoral Credit Hours
In this course, students will complete Chapters 4 and 5, followed by their Dissertation Manuscript. Chapter 4 includes presenting study results aligned to the research design and research questions and/or hypotheses. Chapter 5 includes study implications, recommendations, and conclusions. Students will then compile and present findings in the completed Dissertation Manuscript and in an Oral Defense. A completed, committee-approved Chapter 5, Dissertation Manuscript, and successful Oral Defense (against the minimum rubric standards) are required to complete the course and graduate.
Electives
The Elective course in the PhD in Psychology degree can be satisfied by any 8000-level course in the Department of Psychology.
Exceptions:
- The elective for both counseling specializations is PSY-8606 Clinical Supervision.
- The preferred elective course for the Industrial/Organizational Psychology specialization is PSY-8413. Students that would like to work with the I/O Psychology Internship Coordinator to participate in an internship will need to enroll in PSY-7118 Internship in I/O Psychology, after the I/O Psychology Internship Coordinator approves the internship site and plan
- The preferred elective course for Substance-Related Disorders is PSY-8118 Grant Writing in Psychology or PSY-8511 Behavioral Health Administration and Management or PUB-7005 Public Budgeting and Finance.
- The preferred elective course for Social Policy and Behavioral Health Administration is PSY-8118 Grant Writing in Psychology or PSY-8140 Community Psychology. Students that would like to work with the Internship Coordinator to participate in an internship will need to use this elective to enroll in PSY-8508 Internship in Social Policy and Mental Health Administration, after the Internship Coordinator approves the internship site and plan.
Specialisations in PhD-PSY
Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
Provide mental health professionals, providers and researchers knowledge and expertise in the area of substance related and addictive disorders.
Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity
In-depth understanding of the social, cultural, and biological foundations of human sexuality, gender, and sexual orientation, prepare students to apply principles of psychology related to gender diversity in a variety of settings, and carry out research related to gender diversity in a variety of settings.
General Psychology
Students to select courses from a broad range of electives to fit their personal and professional goals. This specialization also prepares students to apply principles of psychology and conduct research related to their area of interest in a variety of settings.
Gerontology
Designed to assist in training individuals interested in working with older adults and their families. As the world’s population continues to age, the demand will continue for individuals trained in gerontology.
Health Psychology
Provide an in-depth understanding of the total matrix of factors influencing psychological and physical health and illness, prepare students to apply biopsychosocial principles in a variety of settings, and carry out research related to health psychology in a variety of settings.
Industrial Organizational Psychology
You will learn to apply psychological theories to critical issues in the fields of business and industry. Specifically, you’ll gain expertise in the dynamics of leadership and management, the best practices for enhancing employee motivation and engagement, and the structure and procedures of organizational development.
Social Policy and Behavioral Health Administration
Increasing natural disasters, incidents of abuse and neglect, terrorism, war, violence, and conflict on a local, national, and global level have created a demand for individuals trained in identifying and treating the aftermath of trauma.
Counseling Psychology
Designed for mental health professionals who are licensed or pre-licensed having a foundation of clinical knowledge and skills at the master level. The program is intended for professionals who seek to improve their theoretical knowledge and clinical skills, while preparing them to advance their career in the mental health field.
Sport and Performance Psychology
Offers a strong base in theory and research, promotes an awareness of ethics and a respect for diversity, and will help you advance your critical thinking and mental performance coaching skills.
Trauma and Disaster Relief
Prepares students to work with individuals who have witnessed natural disasters, accidents, abuse, physical injury, bullying, etc., and who are now grappling with how to cope or to integrate memories or feelings related to that experience.
Trusted and
Accredited
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Career Impact
At NU, we believe education should open doors to new opportunities. Explore career paths, salary insights, and workforce demand related to this degree, and discover how your education can support your professional goals.
*Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
Professional Pathways
*Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Your degree is possible at NU. From scholarships and financial aid to prior learning and transfer credit, we help remove financial barriers to your degree.
Get Financial Aid Through
the FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines eligibility for financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. It’s the first step in applying for financial aid at NU.
- Apply once each year to be considered for federal
financial aid - Required for most grants and loans at National University
Scholarships
NU is dedicated to making higher education affordable and accessible, offering scholarships and grants that help eligible students reduce college costs, ease financial stress, and reach their goals.
- Military scholarships for servicemembers, Veterans, spouses, and dependents
- Need-based and merit-based scholarships for undergraduates, graduates, and alumni
More Funding Options
Don’t let financial worries stop you from getting the education you want. NU’s financial aid advisors can help you navigate available resources, including student loans, grants, tuition payment plans, and employer tuition assistance.
- Federal and private student loans for flexible financing
- Tuition payment plans and employer assistance options
Make the Most of Your
Prior Learning
Eligible transfer credit and credit for prior learning may apply toward your doctoral program. Speak with an advisor to learn more about your options.
Contact the admission team at (855) 355-6288
ABD Students Welcome
Finish your Dissertation With Us
NU’s Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) program is designed to support students who are all-but-dissertation (ABD), transferring all previous credits leading up to the dissertation
- Dedicated DCP advisors and faculty who understand your journey and desire to finish your doctorate
- DCP Bridge courses, virtual sessions, and Dissertation Boot Camps to assist students from day one
Upcoming Dissertation Boot Camps
Upcoming Dissertation Boot Camps
Take the Next Step
Learn more about our career-focused programs and flexible options for working professionals.
Why Choose NU for Your Doctorate?
National University is redefining doctoral education for career-driven learners.
No GRE Required
Rigorous doctoral study delivered fully online, with no standardized test scores required.
For Working Professionals
Flexible online doctoral programs designed to fit demanding schedules while maintaining academic rigor.
Dedicated Support
NU offers free tutoring, career coaching, wellness services, and more to support your success and well-being.
Career-Focused
Industry-aligned coursework and hands-on learning supported by an alumni network of 255,000+ worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
National University’s PhD-PSY is a 100%-online research doctorate designed for working professionals who want to advance their expertise, conduct original scholarship, and pursue roles in research, teaching, consulting, or behavioral health leadership. The program offers 10 specializations and requires 60 credits beyond a master’s degree.
Yes. A PhD in Psychology can open doors to interesting career paths, including academic research, teaching, clinical practice, and applied leadership. The right fit depends on your goals, interests, and readiness for the rigor and commitment a doctoral program requires.
The dissertation unfolds across four structured courses, from the pre-candidacy prospectus through data collection, manuscript completion, and final defense. Faculty provide feedback weekly throughout the sequence, and students focused on publication can work toward research that contributes to the field.
The American Psychological Association is actively developing guidance on integrating AI into psychological practice, and employers across behavioral health, organizational psychology, and research settings increasingly expect doctoral-level professionals to work fluently alongside AI-assisted tools. NU’s Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology can prepare graduates to lead in that environment, particularly in specializations like Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Health Psychology, and Social Policy and Behavioral Health Administration, where data literacy and applied research skills are already core competencies.
The degree can prepare graduates for careers in research, postsecondary teaching, behavioral health administration, consulting, and government or nonprofit leadership. Career paths vary by specialization. Graduates in Industrial/Organizational Psychology may pursue organizational consulting roles, while those in Health Psychology may move into health systems research or program management. Licensure requirements vary by state and role (students should always confirm their specific state’s requirements before enrolling).
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology is a doctoral degree that emphasizes research, scholarship, and the advancement of knowledge within the field, while a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a professional doctoral degree focused primarily on applied clinical training and practice. Both degrees are highly respected and can prepare graduates for careers in psychology, including clinical roles. The primary difference lies in the training model: PhD programs typically place greater emphasis on research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly inquiry, while PsyD programs focus more extensively on clinical assessment, intervention, and hands-on practice.
Hear from Our Graduates
Working professionals who have turned their degree into leadership impact.
I utilized the Academic Success Center and a writing coach once I entered the dissertation stage. This was incredibly beneficial as it provided me with additional insights into my work.
Jennice Y.
Class of 2025
Earning my doctoral degree means everything to me. It’s a symbol of resilience and proof that with faith, discipline, and perseverance, anything is possible.
Tiffany M.
Class of 2025
This entire process has been seamless, and it feels like this is where I was meant to study all along.
Sonja F.
Class of 2026
The professors have consistently provided invaluable guidance, high expectations, and a wealth of knowledge, which have greatly enhanced my academic and professional development.
Charles H.
Veteran, Class of 2026
The advisors and staff welcomed me with compassion and stood by me every step of the way. Their support made it possible for me to keep going.
Horacio M.
Class of 2024
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
Additional Resources
