|  | Finding the right psychology program can be a study in itself. Using our guide to the different psychology degree programs that are available can help you understand the differences between them, make it easier for you to decide upon the right psychology degree—and find the right psychology school for you.  | Bachelor's Intended for students who have a high school diploma, GED or an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree programs in psychology generally emphasize the sciences in addition to psychology. Most psychologists have a bachelor's degree in psychology. Master's A master's degree in psychology requires at least two years of full-time graduate study. Coursework generally includes statistics, mathematics, social sciences, biological and physical sciences in addition to a clinical internship and a thesis based on original research. Psychologists with a master's degree in psychology may work in the industrial-organizational field or as psychological assistants. Educational Specialist (EdS) These programs are designed for people who have completed a master’s degree and wish to increase their skills for advanced certification requirements or other professional objectives. The EdS level is the minimum preparation for school psychologists and directors of special education in most states. The EdS has become the intermediate degree for many professionals who supervise master’s degree level personnel. The most common EdS degrees are: Educational Specialist in School Psychology or Special Education. Doctorate Doctoral programs require five-to-seven years of graduate study. Coursework generally includes quantitative research methods and a dissertation based on original research. Doctorate in Education (EdD) Many doctorate programs in education require a master's degree in education or a related field. The EdD is likely to be a preferred qualification for many mid-career employees, many of whom will already have master’s degrees but wish to pursue studies at the doctorate level, which are based on research in addition to the application of that knowledge in professional practice. The EdD is designed for the professional practitioner. Graduates are qualified to work as administrators, superintendents, teacher educators, as well as other educational leadership positions. Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD) Psychologists with a PhD qualify for a wide range of teaching, research, clinical, and counseling positions in universities, healthcare services, elementary and secondary schools, private industry, and government. A PhD places an equal emphasis on research and clinical training. Entrance into PhD programs is highly competitive. A master’s degree in psychology is often a prerequisite to a PhD program. Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Many doctorate programs in psychology require a master's degree in psychology or a related field. The PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) is a newer professional degree, offered by the professional schools of psychology that emphasizes clinical practice with only a minimum of research training. Entrance into PsyD programs is generally less competitive than PhD programs. Post-Doctoral Certificate Post-doctoral psychology certificate program are for professional psychologists with a PsyD or PhD who wish to expand their knowledge and training in a specialty psychology area such as academic, clinical, counseling, health, or organizational psychology.  |
