Getting an online doctorate in psychology opens many doors for a candidate, who is fascinated by human behavior and the study of the brain. A psychologist can help others diagnose behavioral, emotional, or mental issues, and work toward a plan of improvement to better serve the patient or client’s function in society. There are many reasons to pursue an online doctorate in psychology, earning potential being one.
Graduating with your online doctorate in psychology opens up new possibilities for the professional. Not only does it enable one to make a greater impact on the well-being of clients or patients, but it also results in salaries that are close to 50% more than what an industry pro would earn with a bachelor’s degree, which more than makes up for the greater time commitment that a doctorate program requires.
Throughout the educational journey, an online doctorate in psychology program could take anywhere from three years to a full decade to complete depending on the nature of the final thesis or dissertation. Research takes time and plays an important part in presenting a study that will meet with the approval of other academics.
However, as one works toward a doctorate, professional accolades and pay bumps become easier to negotiate, and since the timeframe is flexible, the candidate can set his schedule around his employment.
Online Doctorate in Psychology: PhD or EdD?
There are two primary forms of doctorate programs within the field of psychology, and both can be pursued online:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
While the PhD is linked to philosophy, it is not an actual degree in philosophy, but rather the highest honor for most professional fields of study. It symbolizes one’s pursuit of knowledge to the top of their field and psychology is no exception.
Some states offer an alternative, the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), but most employers see the two as interchangeable when considering the doctorate holder for a position.
For those who attain an EdD, the goal is to work more closely with the educational profession. These graduates can often be found in primary and secondary schools as well as within colleges and universities. At the collegiate level, an EdD graduate makes a perfect candidate for a faculty position.
Whichever path one chooses, the online doctorate in psychology degree will require intensive research and a commitment to the field of study. Supervised clinical experience is also expected.
The amount required will depend on the state and the educational institution. But for those with strength and talent for the subject area and a yearning to help others, it is a degree plan well worth the effort.
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