Difference Between PsyD and PhD

There is quite a difference in a PhD and a PsyD. When studying for a PhD, students are expected to complete a Master’s Degree research project, as well as a doctoral dissertation. On the other hand, a PsyD, allows students to focus more on the clinical training aspect. While both hold value when it comes to starting a career, PhD programs are far more favorable than PsyD programs are. This holds especially true if your career of choice is more in the academic world. If you choose the clinical aspect, both hold just about the same bearing.

Doctor of Philosophy Programs (PhD)

These programs are often a good bit harder to get into than the PsyD programs are. In committing to a PhD program, you can expect much more academic work from a research standpoint. These programs typically last longer as well. While the programs are often harder to get into, they are more widely accepted than a PsyD is. The hard work put in, may very well pay off in the end, as internships are much easier to get into if you hold a PhD.

Doctor of Psychology Programs (PsyD)

This degree began and was first awarded in the 1960’s. While the program does not have a heavy focus on the academic standpoint, it does offer more hands on and clinical experience than a PhD does. They are variably easier to get into but, many find that holding a PsyD makes it much harder to get into an internship. The main focus of a PsyD program, is to prepare students for the hands on clinical aspect of their career.

Clinical programs seem to be a bit hard to get into from a psychology standpoint. Often times, students are just happy to be accepted anywhere and tend to settle for the first acceptance that they receive. It is very important, when working toward each degree, that you research the school and make sure they are accredited and that your degree will actually withstand when it comes to your chosen career. You will also want to research things such as class size, and how long the school has been around. In a situation such as this, you do not want to necessarily settle for the simpler option. If you are going to take the time to go through the program to receive your degree, you want to make sure it is worth your time.

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