In the dynamic world of mental health, the realm of psychology stands as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering the key to unraveling the complex maze of the human mind. If you are fascinated by this intricate tapestry of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, then you’re in the right place. Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Doctorate in Psychology programs in the enchanting state of Virginia!
Home to some of the nation’s top-ranking universities offering both master’s in psychology and Ph.D. programs, Virginia offers a unique blend of rich history and modern innovation, providing the perfect backdrop for an enlightening educational journey. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to hone your skills or a budding psychologist eager to leave your mark, Virginia’s doctoral programs will equip you with the knowledge, experience, and acumen you need to flourish in this ever-evolving field and eventually become a psychologist in the state of Virginia. Let’s dive in and discover the exciting opportunities that await you in the heart of the Old Dominion. Buckle up and get ready to embark on your path toward becoming a torchbearer in the field of psychology!
Doctorate in General Psychology
University of Virginia (UVA): Ph.D. in Psychology
Nestled in the historical city of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia, a public Ivy institution, boasts a highly respected Ph.D. program in Psychology. This program is marked by its comprehensive curriculum, balancing rigorous academic study with immersive research experiences. Its five areas of specialization – Clinical, Cognitive, Community, Developmental, and Quantitative Psychology – allow students to tailor their education to their career aspirations. The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and is highly regarded for its commitment to research excellence and its robust faculty-student collaborations.
Virginia Tech: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology
Virginia Tech, located in the beautiful town of Blacksburg, offers a robust Ph.D. program in Psychology. This program emphasizes the integration of science and practice, focusing on preparing students for careers in academia, research, and applied psychology settings. The program’s six areas of study – Clinical Science, Developmental Science, Biological Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, and Social Psychology – provide students with a diverse range of research and practice opportunities. The program is accredited by the APA and is distinguished for its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and cutting-edge research.
George Mason University (GMU): Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology
Positioned in the bustling hub of Fairfax, George Mason University offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology recognized for its focus on empirical research and its strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The program offers five concentrations – Applied Developmental Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience, Human Factors/Applied Cognition, and Industrial/Organizational Psychology. The Clinical Psychology concentration is accredited by the APA. The program stands out for its interdisciplinary approach and its emphasis on the application of psychology to real-world problems.
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
University of Virginia (UVA): Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
Hailing from the charming city of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia offers an esteemed Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology. Emphasizing a scientist-practitioner model, this program prepares students to contribute to the field through research, teaching, and clinical practice. An American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited program, it is noted for its commitment to evidence-based treatments, its integration of diversity and culture, and its strong faculty mentorship.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
Situated in the diverse city of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University’s Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology champions an innovative scientist-practitioner model. This APA-accredited program stands out for its integration of research, theory, and clinical practice, with a strong focus on community engagement and public service. Students are encouraged to develop their unique research interests while gaining the skills necessary for licensure and professional practice.
Virginia Tech: Ph.D. in Clinical Science in Psychology
Located in the scenic town of Blacksburg, Virginia Tech offers a Ph.D. program in Clinical Science in Psychology. This program, accredited by the APA, is committed to the scientist-practitioner-advocate model, emphasizing evidence-based practice, rigorous research, and advocacy in psychology. Known for its strong faculty-student collaborations and a warm, collegial atmosphere, this program prepares students for careers in academia, research, and health service settings.
George Mason University (GMU): Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
Nestled in the bustling city of Fairfax, George Mason University offers an APA-accredited Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology. This program is recognized for its commitment to cognitive-behavioral and community intervention research. With an emphasis on diversity and inclusion, it prepares students to serve diverse populations in a variety of professional settings. The program is renowned for its rigorous training in both research methods and clinical practice.
James Madison University (JMU): Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program in Clinical and School Psychology
Based in the vibrant city of Harrisonburg, James Madison University provides a unique Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program in Clinical and School Psychology. This APA-accredited program stands out for its combined and integrated approach to training, preparing students to work as health service psychologists in a broad range of settings, including schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The program’s commitment to social justice, advocacy, and ethical practice sets it apart.
Doctorate in Counselling Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology
Based in Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University provides an APA-accredited Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology. This program prioritizes a multicultural and social justice perspective, focusing on the development of strong research skills and clinical competencies. It is particularly known for its commitment to community engagement, and its training model emphasizes the interdependence of theory, research, and practice.
College of William & Mary: Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision
Situated in the historic city of Williamsburg, the College of William & Mary offers a Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision. The program, accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), stands out with its emphasis on leadership, advocacy, and advanced clinical skills. Known for its small class sizes and strong faculty-student relationships, the program prepares graduates for roles in academia, counseling leadership, and advanced clinical practice.
Virginia Tech: Ph.D. in Counselor Education
Located in the serene town of Blacksburg, Virginia Tech offers a Ph.D. in Counselor Education. This program, accredited by CACREP, places a strong emphasis on social justice, advocacy, and multicultural counseling. The program is well-regarded for its commitment to producing leaders in the counseling field, with graduates often assuming roles in academia, research, and professional practice.
Click here for Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in the state of Virginia.
Doctorate in School/Educational Psychology
University of Virginia (UVA): Ph.D. in School Psychology
Nestled in the historic city of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia offers a Ph.D. program in School Psychology. This program, accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), is renowned for its scientist-practitioner model and its commitment to preparing professionals who can promote the cognitive, behavioral, and emotional well-being of children and adolescents. The program stands out for its strong research focus and its dedication to social justice and diversity.
James Madison University (JMU): Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program in Clinical and School Psychology
Located in the bustling city of Harrisonburg, James Madison University offers a unique Combined-Integrated Doctoral Program in Clinical and School Psychology. This APA-accredited program stands out for its integrated approach to training, preparing students to work as health service psychologists in a broad range of settings, including schools. The program’s commitment to social justice, advocacy, and ethical practice sets it apart.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in School Psychology
Based in the vibrant city of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University provides an APA-accredited Ph.D. program in School Psychology. This program is recognized for its scientist-practitioner training model and its commitment to enhancing educational and mental health outcomes for children and adolescents. With a strong focus on urban education and culturally-responsive practice, the program prepares graduates to serve in diverse educational settings.
George Mason University (GMU): Ph.D. in School Psychology
Nestled in the heart of Fairfax, George Mason University offers a Ph.D. program in School Psychology. This program, accredited by the APA, emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, prevention, and intervention strategies in addressing the educational and mental health needs of children and adolescents. The program is notable for its commitment to research, its strong faculty mentorship, and its focus on serving diverse and underrepresented populations.
Doctorate in Behavioral Psychology
Virginia Tech: Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience
Set in the idyllic town of Blacksburg, Virginia Tech offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience. Known for its integration of behavioral and neurobiological methodologies, the program provides a rich, interdisciplinary training environment. Although it’s not specifically accredited in behavioral psychology, the program is embedded in the accredited psychology department and recognized for its strong research focus and its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
University of Virginia (UVA): Ph.D. in Psychology with a focus on Cognitive Psychology
Based in the historic city of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a focus on Cognitive Psychology, which often intersects with behavioral psychology. The program is known for its robust training in research design, data analysis, and cognitive theory. While the program itself is not specifically accredited in behavioral psychology, it is part of UVA’s accredited psychology department and is renowned for its research emphasis and its contributions to cognitive-behavioral theory and practice.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in Health Psychology with a Behavioral Medicine track
Located in the diverse city of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University offers a Ph.D. program in Health Psychology with a Behavioral Medicine track. This program emphasizes the application of behavioral and psychological principles to health promotion, disease prevention, and treatment. Although not specifically accredited in behavioral psychology, the program is part of the APA-accredited psychology department and stands out for its interdisciplinary approach and its focus on research and practice in behavioral health.
George Mason University (GMU): Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
Situated in the bustling city of Fairfax, George Mason University offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience. This program stands out for its focus on understanding the links between neural mechanisms and behavior. While not specifically accredited in behavioral psychology, it is part of GMU’s accredited psychology department and is recognized for its research-intensive curriculum and its commitment to interdisciplinary study.
Doctorate in Child Psychology
University of Virginia (UVA): Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Child and Family Psychology
Nestled in the beautiful city of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Child and Family Psychology. This American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited program is recognized for its emphasis on both research and clinical practice. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to understand, assess, and intervene with children and families across a variety of settings.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a Child/Adolescent Psychology concentration
Based in the culturally rich city of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University provides a Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology with a Child/Adolescent Psychology concentration. This APA-accredited program stands out for its commitment to the scientist-practitioner model, integrating research, theory, and practice. It prepares students for a career focused on enhancing the psychological well-being of children and adolescents in diverse, urban settings.
Doctorate in Developmental Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology
Located in the dynamic city of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University provides a Ph.D. program in Developmental Psychology. This program, part of the APA-accredited psychology department, is recognized for its emphasis on research and its commitment to understanding and improving human development across diverse populations. The program stands out for its focus on both typical and atypical development across the lifespan.
George Mason University (GMU): Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Developmental Psychology
Nestled in the bustling city of Fairfax, George Mason University offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Developmental Psychology. Although not specifically accredited in developmental psychology, it is part of GMU’s accredited psychology department. This program stands out for its commitment to using developmental research to solve real-world issues affecting children, youth, and families.
Doctorate in Forensic/Criminal Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a Forensic Psychology track
Based in the dynamic city of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University provides a Ph.D. program in Clinical Psychology with a Forensic Psychology track. This program, part of the APA-accredited psychology department, is recognized for its emphasis on the application of psychological principles to the criminal justice system. The program is notable for its focus on both research and clinical practice in forensic psychology.
Doctorate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (IO)
Virginia Tech: Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Located in the serene town of Blacksburg, Virginia Tech offers a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Known for its balance of rigorous academic study and practical application, the program is part of Virginia Tech’s American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited psychology department. This program stands out for its commitment to understanding and improving the world of work through scientific research and real-world application.
George Mason University (GMU): Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Based in the vibrant city of Fairfax, George Mason University offers a Ph.D. program in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Part of GMU’s APA-accredited psychology department, this program is recognized for its robust research training and its commitment to applying psychological principles to the workplace. The program is known for its emphasis on both theory and practice in areas such as talent management, leadership, and organizational effectiveness.
Old Dominion University (ODU): Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Nestled in the bustling city of Norfolk, Old Dominion University provides a Ph.D. program in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. This program, part of the APA-accredited psychology department, is renowned for its commitment to preparing students for careers in both academic and applied settings. With a strong focus on research methods, statistical analysis, and psychological theory, this program equips students to make significant contributions to the field of industrial/organizational psychology.
Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Virginia Tech: Ph.D. in Human Development with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy
Based in the peaceful town of Blacksburg, Virginia Tech offers a Ph.D. in Human Development with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. The program, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), emphasizes the integration of theory, research, and clinical practice. With a strong commitment to diversity and social justice, this program prepares students to contribute significantly to the field of marriage and family therapy.
Regent University: Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies with a concentration in Marriage & Family Therapy
Located in the vibrant city of Virginia Beach, Regent University provides a Ph.D. program in Counseling & Psychological Studies with a concentration in Marriage & Family Therapy. While not specifically accredited in marriage and family therapy, the program is part of Regent’s accredited psychology department. The program is distinctive for its integration of Christian principles with contemporary psychological theories, preparing students to serve in a variety of roles within the field of marriage and family therapy.
Eastern Mennonite University (EMU): Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Family Systems
Situated in the scenic city of Harrisonburg, Eastern Mennonite University offers a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Family Systems. While not specifically accredited in marriage and family therapy, the program is part of EMU’s accredited psychology department. This program stands out for its focus on understanding and addressing mental health issues within the context of family and other interpersonal relationships.
Doctorate in ABA/Behavioral Analysis
George Mason University (GMU): Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis
Based in the bustling city of Fairfax, George Mason University provides a Ph.D. program in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. While not specifically accredited in Applied Behavior Analysis, the program is part of GMU’s accredited psychology department. The program emphasizes the application of behavior analysis to improve the quality of life of individuals, families, and communities.
Doctorate in Other Psychology Programs
George Mason University (GMU): Ph.D. in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience
Located in the bustling city of Fairfax, George Mason University offers a Ph.D. in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience. This program, part of GMU’s American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited psychology department, focuses on understanding the biological substrates of behavior. The program stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, incorporating principles from psychology, biology, and neuroscience.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU): Ph.D. in Health Psychology
Based in the vibrant city of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University provides a Ph.D. program in Health Psychology. This APA-accredited program is recognized for its emphasis on the biopsychosocial model and its dedication to understanding how psychology can contribute to health promotion and disease prevention. It prepares students for a career in academia, research, or professional practice in health psychology.
University of Virginia (UVA): Ph.D. in Quantitative Psychology
Nestled in the historic city of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia offers a Ph.D. in Quantitative Psychology. This program, part of UVA’s APA-accredited psychology department, focuses on the development and application of statistical methods for psychological research. The program stands out for its commitment to training students in the quantitative methods needed to conduct cutting-edge psychological research.
Old Dominion University (ODU): Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology
Situated in the dynamic city of Norfolk, Old Dominion University provides a Ph.D. program in Human Factors Psychology. This APA-accredited program emphasizes understanding the interaction between humans and systems, with a particular focus on improving safety, efficiency, and usability. It prepares students for a career in both academic and applied settings, including industries like transportation, healthcare, and technology.