Exploring the Best PsyD Programs in California: Traditional & Online
A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree is one of the highest psychology degrees available. It’s a necessary credential for professional clinical psychology practice in California. Dozens of accredited PsyD degree programs in California can prepare students to work as skilled practitioners. These programs open the door to a range of career opportunities and salary growth in the state that employs more clinical psychologists than any other, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In this STEPS guide, we’ll list a top PsyD degree program plus information about accreditation and programs with convenient online coursework. We’ll also give answers to key questions from PsyD students and discuss how much money psychologists in California can earn.
Program Profile: A Popular PsyD Degree Program in California
Students who want to pursue a PsyD in California often look for online options. These programs allow students to continue their education and prepare for a career in clinical psychology without the need to put aside their current responsibilities. But, even in an online format, a doctoral degree program takes a lot of work to complete.
Online degree programs typically include intensive courses that are administered in seven-week terms. These programs use both synchronous and asynchronous technology (e.g., videoconferencing, discussion boards, etc.). Some schools combine online courses with in-person instruction for certain content areas, while others offer face-to-face networking opportunities. Many PsyD degree programs use face-to-face delivery for internship and practicum placements.
Some of the best online PsyD degree programs in California offer the same quality education as in-person programs but with more flexibility. Below, we’ll discuss one of the top-ranking PsyD degree programs in California.
California Southern University
The online Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree program at California Southern University is designed for students who want to gain knowledge and practical skills in psychology. This education prepares students for an advanced career as a psychologist or a professional in a related field. Within this program, students can choose between a Doctor of Psychology: Clinical (PsyD-C) specialization and a Doctor of Psychology: General (PsyD-G) specialization.
In this online PsyD degree program, students build foundational knowledge in psychology while conducting research and studying topics such as ethical behavior, cultural diversity, and methods of inquiry.
This program requires 66 credits for completion and prepares students for a career in psychology, private or group practice, consultation, and/or education.
Duration: Four to five years of full-time study
Mode: Online
Cost: $645/credit
Curriculum:
- Advanced Theories of Personality
- History and Systems of Psychology
- Ethical and Professional Issues
- Advanced Psychopathology
- Cultural Diversity
- Cognition, Emotion, and Motivation
- Psychopharmacology
- Physiological Psychology
- Statistical Methods and Analysis
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Psychological Assessment I
FAQs from PsyD Students in California
Do I need a master’s degree to get into a PsyD degree program in California?
Requirements vary by school, but most California PsyD degree programs do not require a master’s degree in psychology. There are notable exceptions to this rule, like the online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology degree program at Touro University Worldwide. But, the majority of programs require only a bachelor’s degree and, in some cases, certain prerequisite courses in psychology.
The PsyD in Clinical Psychology degree program at Azusa Pacific University and the PsyD in Clinical Psychology degree program at Alliant International University, for example, both require either a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree for admission.
Do PsyD degree programs in California require GRE scores?
Some PsyD degree programs in California require GRE scores for admission, but admission requirements are different for each school. Many schools allow students to apply without a GRE score to make programming more accessible.
For example, Pepperdine University, which offers a PsyD in Clinical Psychology degree program, officially dropped its GRE component in 2019. Touro University Worldwide doesn’t require it, either.
How long does it take to complete a PsyD degree program in California?
Most PsyD degree programs take between four to six years to complete. Individual factors like professional employment, transfer credits, and enrollment status (i.e., full-time vs. part-time) can impact the length of a program. Keep in mind that the average timeline might not always reflect the pacing determined by you and your school.
Although most California PsyD degree programs last around four to six years, some programs, like the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Psychodynamic Child Psychology and Psychotherapy degree program at Reiss-Davis Graduate School, take less time to complete (even if you plan to work full-time while you study). In contrast, the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology degree program at Fuller Theological Seminary takes five years to complete.
Is financial aid available for PsyD degree programs in California?
Scholarships and financial aid – which can significantly reduce the cost of your education – are available. Several of the best PsyD degree programs in California offer scholarships and other awards to new and returning students. For example, the University of La Verne, California Lutheran University, and Azusa Pacific University each offer psychology or PsyD-specific scholarships to qualified applicants.
Professional organizations like the American Psycholgical Association (APA) sometimes offer financial aid opportunities and provide tips for students who are looking for ways to fund their education. If you already work in the industry, check with your employer about these financial aid options. Visit the STEPS financial aid guide and detailed scholarships guide for more information.
Does a PsyD degree make you a doctor?
Students who complete a PsyD degree program can use “Dr.” as their title since they hold a doctorate, but they’re not medical doctors. There’s a difference between a doctorate and a medical degree, though they both require extensive education.
Someone who holds a doctorate in psychology can’t prescribe medication or give medical treatment to patients, though they have a psychology license.
Salary and Career Outlook for Clinical Psychologists in California
| Area | Occupation | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $48,820 | $168,870 | $96,100 |
| California | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $64,010 | $187,020 | $126,450 |
| Bakersfield, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $62,660 | $143,590 | $121,170 |
| Chico, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $69,250 | $179,830 | $122,700 |
| Fresno, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $62,760 | $169,810 | $120,430 |
| Hanford-Corcoran, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $111,400 | $139,800 | $139,800 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $61,880 | $207,850 | $126,450 |
| Madera, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $106,100 | $142,210 | $139,800 |
| Modesto, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $65,570 | $164,390 | $113,590 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $62,510 | $196,770 | $125,260 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $64,210 | $181,980 | $124,170 |
| Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $77,160 | $172,180 | $129,570 |
| Salinas, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $63,090 | $162,110 | $120,370 |
| San Diego-Carlsbad, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $50,720 | $239,200+ | $127,730 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $67,700 | $179,390 | $144,180 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $74,480 | $194,140 | $149,590 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $74,950 | $210,910 | $131,480 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $68,680 | $190,820 | $108,340 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $71,800 | $128,330 | $103,410 |
| Santa Rosa, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $70,920 | $173,320 | $134,430 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $68,080 | $172,400 | $125,070 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $70,350 | $179,660 | $139,800 |
| Visalia-Porterville, CA | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $54,430 | $160,220 | $109,840 |
Source: Clinical & Counseling Psychologists, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Occupation | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | 67,500 | 75,200 | 7,700 | 11.40% |
| California | Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | 12,100 | 14,600 | 2,500 | 20.70% |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Resources for PsyD Students and Professionals in California
Whether you’re looking for ways to get help paying for school or looking for career placement assistance after graduation, many resources in California can help. Every PsyD student in California should be familiar with the organizations listed below.
- California Association of School Psychologists (CASP):
This non-profit organization helps school psychologists across California succeed through legislative advocacy, professional development, and other opportunities. It offers membership for student psychologists who are currently working on degree programs. - California Board of Psychology:
Psychologists in California are licensed through the California Board of Psychology, which is a great resource for students. This organization offers resources such as practice exams, application and exam statistics, and continuing education. - California Psychological Association (CPA):
The CPA aims to protect and promote the science and practice of psychology. It’s the largest state psychological association and offers student membership to people who are enrolled in a doctoral psychology degree program. - California Psychological Association of Graduate Students (CPAGS):
This organization is part of the CPA and is specifically designed for graduate students who are preparing for a career in psychology. It provides graduate students with opportunities to network with professionals and collaborate with other student organizations. - California Student Aid Commission (CSAC):
This organization’s goal is to promote educational equity by making post-secondary education affordable for all students in California. It provides workshops (such as a Cash for College Workshop) to help students apply for financial aid.
Top Schools for Online PsyD Degree Programs in California
We created a methodology that allows us to identify some of the highest-quality and flexible PsyD degree programs in California. To identify the highest-ranking schools, we considered factors like percentage of graduate students who take at least one online class, number of online programs, and cost of attendance.
We listed some of the top PsyD degree programs in California below to help you find one that fits your needs and lifestyle.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of graduate students at the school taking at least one class online
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for undergraduates per academic year.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio: Schools with lower ratios ranked higher.
- Percentage of students admitted. More selective schools ranked higher.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Petaluma, California
The Clinical Psychology doctoral program (PsyD) at Meridian University is an accredited, terminal degree program leading to a professional doctorate. Once enrolled, you'll be studying either completely online or in a hybrid format that requires visits to the California campus. The curriculum is geared for those who want a career in practicing psychology or counseling, rather than research or academia, and for those who meet the educational requirements for psychology or counseling licensure in the State of California--although you will need to complete the rest of the licensure requirements, such as applying for your license, outside of the doctoral program. Applications are accepted every quarter, and financial aid may be available.
Program Highlights:
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
- Credits: 108
- Length: 3-4 Years
- Cost: $676/credit
- Mode: Online, Hybrid
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
2
Los Alamitos, California
Touro University Worldwide offers a 66-credit PsyD program where you can earn a doctorate in Human and Organizational Psychology. This fully-online graduate program is designed for flexibility, so students can easily manage 8-week course blocks that include theory and research methods. These courses will lead up to designing a proposal for an original research topic and completing a doctoral dissertation on the topic of your choosing. This program mixes psychology in the scientific sense with real-world and business applications and can lead to an exciting career in the corporate world or in nonprofits, government, and more. Prospective students should apply online, and GRE scores are not required.
Program Highlights:
Online Doctor of Psychology in Human and Organizational Psychology
- Credits: 66
- Length: 2-3 Years
- Cost: $700/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
3
San Diego, California
Alliant International University offers not one, but five different APA-accredited PsyD doctoral programs in clinical psychology at five different California-based campuses. While the five different programs have many core aspects in common, there are also a variety of location-specific distinctions between them. For instance, the program offered through the Fresno campus offers an option to specialize in forensic psychology, while the program offered through the San Diego campus offers several specializations, ranging from family psychology to mindfulness-based Buddhist pyschology. Prospective students must ensure they've done the necessary research on the details of the five programs to determine which is right for them, and if they meet the relevant admissions requirements--although all five require an accredited bachelor's degree, with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Program Highlights:
Clinical Psychology PsyD
- Credits: Varies
- Length: Varies
- Cost: Varies
- Mode: In-person, Online, Hybrid
- Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)
4
El Cajon, California
5
Los Angeles, California
