PhD Programs vs. PsyD Programs Some clinical psychology programs offer a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree in lieu of the traditional research doctoral degree, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) The PhD is the oldest doctorate and is generally regarded as a research degree. Although many independent schools of professional psychology award the PhD, they typically emphasize research training integrated with applied or practice training.  Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Similar to the MD in Medicine, PsyD is becoming increasingly popular among professional independent programs as a professional degree in psychology. PsyD programs place strong emphasis on preparing their graduates for professional practice as practitioner-scholars, but typically with less research training. Pursuing PhD Programs or PsyD Programs in Psychology So, with all of this information, how do you decide which degree is best for you? Well, in the academic world, PhD programs are preferable to PsyD programs; however, in the world of clinical practice, both degrees have about the same status and functionality. And, according to the American Psychological Association (APA), currently about 75 percent of all doctoral degrees in psychology are PhD degrees. 
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