Pennsylvania Doctorate and PhD in Psychology Programs

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Updated on July 12, 2023
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Pennsylvania is a hub of prestigious Doctorate in Psychology programs, attracting scholars and practitioners from across the globe. Its renowned universities lead the way in psychological research and practice, offering cutting-edge programs that cover the entire discipline. With vibrant cities like Philadelphia and charming areas like Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s academic institutions provide a distinctive blend of urban and rural settings to foster your passion for psychology. Explore the diverse doctoral programs available in Pennsylvania and discover the ideal environment to nurture your intellectual curiosity and professional aspirations, ultimately paving the way to become a licensed psychologist in the state.

In addition to its prestigious Doctorate in Psychology programs, Pennsylvania also offers a wide range of Master’s programs in the field. These programs provide a valuable opportunity for students to delve deeper into the study of psychology and acquire specialized knowledge and skills. Whether you aspire to work in clinical psychology, counseling, or research, Pennsylvania’s diverse Master’s programs offer a pathway to expand your expertise and further your career in the field of psychology. With renowned universities and a thriving academic community, Pennsylvania is an ideal destination to pursue your educational and professional goals in psychology.

Doctorate in General Psychology

University of Pennsylvania: Ph.D. in Psychology

Situated in the historic city of Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology that encourages interdisciplinary scholarship. Accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), this research-intensive program allows students to explore various areas within psychology, including cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology. Graduates are prepared to excel in academic, research, or industry settings, contributing novel insights to the field of psychology.


Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

Pennsylvania State University: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Situated in State College, Pennsylvania State University offers an APA-accredited Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology. The program follows the scientist-practitioner model, with a strong emphasis on research methods, evidence-based practice, and diversity. Students receive clinical training at various community mental health settings and engage in cutting-edge research, preparing them to contribute to the field in academic, clinical, and research settings.


Temple University: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Based in Philadelphia, Temple University provides an APA-accredited Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology. This program adheres to the scientist-practitioner model, with a strong emphasis on cognitive-behavioral approaches to assessment and treatment. Students engage in rigorous research projects and receive clinical training at the university’s Psychological Services Center, preparing them for a variety of careers in psychology.

Click here for Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in the state of Pennsylvania.


Doctorate in Counselling Psychology

Temple University: Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology

Temple University, located in Philadelphia, provides a Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology accredited by the APA. This program emphasizes a scientist-practitioner approach, preparing students to provide culturally sensitive and evidence-based counseling services to diverse populations. Students receive training in assessment, intervention, and prevention and are prepared for careers as psychologists, educators, and researchers.


Doctorate in School/Educational Psychology

University of Pennsylvania: Ph.D. in School Psychology

The University of Pennsylvania, based in Philadelphia, provides a Ph.D. program in School Psychology that is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). The program prepares students to work as licensed psychologists in school settings, with a focus on prevention, intervention, and consultation. Students receive comprehensive training in assessment, intervention, and consultation, preparing them for careers in schools, clinics, research, and advocacy.


Temple University: Ph.D. in School Psychology

Temple University, located in Philadelphia, offers a Ph.D. program in School Psychology accredited by the APA. This program emphasizes evidence-based practice, preparing students to provide psychological services to children and adolescents in school settings. Students receive training in assessment, intervention, and consultation and engage in research projects that contribute to the field of school psychology.


Duquesne University: Ph.D. in School Psychology

Duquesne University, situated in Pittsburgh, provides a Ph.D. program in School Psychology that is accredited by the APA. The program trains students to become licensed psychologists who specialize in working with children and adolescents in school settings. Students receive training in assessment, intervention, consultation, and research and are prepared for careers in schools, clinics, and research.


Doctorate in Developmental Psychology

Pennsylvania State University: Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies

Pennsylvania State University, located in State College, provides a Ph.D. program in Human Development and Family Studies that focuses on human development across the lifespan. The program is interdisciplinary and prepares students to conduct research on developmental psychology from various perspectives, including social, psychological, and biological. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, and clinical practice.


Temple University: Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Developmental Psychology

Temple University, based in Philadelphia, offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a specialization in Developmental Psychology. The program is accredited by the APA and prepares students to conduct research on various aspects of human development, including cognitive, social, and emotional development. Students receive comprehensive training in research methods, data analysis, and interpretation, preparing them for careers in academia, research, and clinical practice.


Doctorate in Forensic/Criminal Psychology

Drexel University: Ph.D. in Law and Clinical Psychology 

Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a concentration in Clinical Forensic Psychology. This program prepares students to work in a variety of settings related to forensic psychology, including law enforcement, court systems, and prisons. Students receive training in forensic assessment, expert testimony, and treatment of individuals involved in the criminal justice system.


Widener University: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and Criminal Justice

Widener University, based in Chester, provides a Psy.D. program in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Criminal Psychology. This program focuses on the intersection of psychology and the legal system, preparing students for careers in forensic assessment, expert testimony, and treatment of individuals involved in the criminal justice system.


Temple University: Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in Law and Psychology

Temple University, situated in Philadelphia, offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a concentration in Law and Psychology. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal system and how psychology intersects with it. Students receive training in forensic assessment, research methodology, and the impact of social policy on the legal system.


Doctorate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (IO)

University of Pennsylvania: Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Organizational Psychology

The University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia, provides a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a specialization in Organizational Psychology. The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and prepares students for careers in research, consulting, and academia related to organizational psychology. Students receive training in research methodology, data analysis, and the application of psychological principles to improve workplace performance.


Pennsylvania State University: Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Pennsylvania State University, situated in State College, offers a Ph.D. program in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, which is accredited by the APA. This program provides students with a broad understanding of the psychological principles that underlie organizational behavior and performance, as well as the research methods used to study these phenomena. Graduates are prepared for careers in consulting, research, and academia.


Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)

Drexel University: Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy

Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, offers a Ph.D. program in couples and Family Therapy. This program prepares students to work with couples and families in a variety of settings, including private practice, mental health clinics, and hospitals. Students receive training in systemic theories and interventions, research methods, and clinical skills.


Doctorate in Other Psychology Programs

Duquesne University: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

Duquesne University, situated in Pittsburgh, provides a Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology, which is accredited by the APA. This program prepares students to work as practitioners and researchers in clinical settings, with a focus on treating individuals with a range of psychological disorders. Students receive training in assessment, diagnosis, and intervention, as well as research methodology and data analysis.