Pennsylvania is home to a diverse range of psychology programs, making it a strong choice for students interested in the field. From research-focused institutions to applied psychology programs, the state offers opportunities at every degree level. Whether you’re seeking an undergraduate foundation in psychology, a specialized master’s degree, or a doctoral program leading to licensure, Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities provide numerous options to match different career goals.
This guide explores the degrees in psychology Pennsylvania institutions offer, helping prospective students navigate their options. We’ll cover:
- The different types of psychology programs available, including clinical, counseling, experimental, and applied fields.
- The various degree levels, from bachelor’s degrees in psychology to APA-accredited doctoral programs.
- Key steps to plan your education path, including accreditation, program format, and career considerations.
Whether you’re just starting your academic journey or looking for a graduate program to advance your career, this guide will provide essential information to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Psychology Degree Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers many types of psychology degree programs tailored to different career paths and educational goals. Whether you are interested in clinical practice, research, or applied psychology fields, the state’s universities provide degree options at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Additionally, programs vary in format, including traditional on-campus, hybrid, and online options.
By Degree Level
Associate Degrees in Psyc
Typically two-year programs offered at community colleges and some four-year institutions. These degrees provide foundational coursework in psychology, preparing students for entry-level roles in human services or for transfer into a bachelor’s program.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology
A bachelor’s degree in psychology is the foundation for many psychology-related careers and graduate studies. Pennsylvania colleges and universities offer Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in psychology, which typically cover:
- General psychology principles and research methods
- Core areas like cognitive, social, developmental, and abnormal psychology
- Electives that may align with specific career goals, such as forensic or industrial-organizational psychology
While a bachelor’s degree alone may not lead to licensure as a psychologist, it can prepare graduates for entry-level roles in human services, research assistance, and business sectors or serve as a stepping stone to graduate programs in psychology.
Master’s Degrees in Psychology
A master’s degree in psychology provides specialized training for students pursuing careers in counseling, industrial-organizational psychology, education, and research. Common master’s-level specializations in Pennsylvania include:
- Clinical psychology, which prepares students for mental health counseling roles or doctoral study
- Counseling psychology, which focuses on therapy and mental health intervention techniques
- Industrial-organizational psychology, which applies psychological principles to workplace productivity, human resources, and leadership
- School psychology, which prepares graduates for roles in educational settings, often requiring further certification
Some master’s programs lead directly to professional licensure, such as those designed for licensed professional counselors.
Doctoral Degrees in Psychology (Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.)
Doctoral programs in psychology prepare students for advanced careers in clinical practice, research, academia, or specialized psychological services. The two primary types of doctoral degrees are:
- The Ph.D. in psychology, which is research-focused and ideal for students pursuing academic or experimental psychology careers. Some Ph.D. programs also include clinical training.
- The Psy.D. in psychology, which is primarily designed for students pursuing clinical practice and licensure as a psychologist.
Doctoral programs in Pennsylvania often require internships, practicums, and original research projects. Many universities also offer programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), which are essential for those seeking professional licensure.
By Specialization
Clinical and Counseling Psychology
Programs in clinical and counseling psychology focus on mental health treatment, assessment, and therapy techniques. These degrees often lead to licensure as clinical psychologists, counselors, or therapists and include significant hands-on training through internships and supervised clinical practice.
Experimental and Research Psychology
Students interested in cognitive, social, or developmental psychology research can pursue degrees in experimental psychology or related fields. These programs emphasize:
- Statistical analysis and research methodologies
- Human behavior, cognition, and neuroscience
- Academic and laboratory-based career opportunities
Applied Psychology Fields
Applied psychology programs focus on practical applications of psychological principles. Common fields include:
- Industrial-organizational psychology, which examines workplace behavior and human resources strategies
- Forensic psychology, which applies psychological research in criminal justice and legal settings
- School psychology, which supports students’ academic and emotional well-being
By Program Format
- Traditional On-Campus Programs – Full-time, in-person programs provide a structured learning environment with face-to-face interactions, hands-on experiences, and networking opportunities. These are ideal for students who prefer a traditional classroom setting and direct mentorship from faculty.
- Hybrid and Online Options – Many colleges and universities in Pennsylvania offer flexible learning formats to accommodate working professionals and non-traditional students. Those seeking flexibility can explore an affordable online psychology program, which balances cost and quality.
- Fully Online Degree Paths – Students who need maximum flexibility can pursue an online bachelor’s in psychology or even an online associate degree in psychology to build foundational knowledge before transferring into a four-year program.
- Accelerated and Part-Time Programs – Some institutions offer accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s pathways, allowing students to complete graduate coursework while earning their undergraduate degree. Part-time psychology programs also cater to students balancing work, family, or other commitments.
Prospective students should carefully assess program formats based on their personal schedules, career goals, and financial considerations.
Pennsylvania Colleges and Universities Offering Psychology Degrees
Pennsylvania is home to a wide array of institutions offering advanced degrees in psychology, from research-intensive universities to smaller private colleges with specialized graduate programs. This list was sourced from National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in 2025, focusing on Pennsylvania-based institutions that provide master’s and doctoral degrees. Prospective students should use resources such as NCES and individual university websites to explore program specifics, admission requirements, and financial aid opportunities.
Colleges and Universities Offering Psychology Degrees in Pennsylvania
- Albright College – Reading, PA
- Arcadia University – Glenside, PA
- Bryn Mawr College – Bryn Mawr, PA
- Bucknell University – Lewisburg, PA
- Cairn University-Langhorne – Langhorne, PA
- Carlow University – Pittsburgh, PA
- Carnegie Mellon University – Pittsburgh, PA
- Chatham University – Pittsburgh, PA
- Chestnut Hill College – Philadelphia, PA
- Clarks Summit University – Clarks Summit, PA
- Delaware Valley University – Doylestown, PA
- Drexel University – Philadelphia, PA
- Duquesne University – Pittsburgh, PA
- Eastern University – Saint Davids, PA
- Elizabethtown College – Elizabethtown, PA
- Geneva College – Beaver Falls, PA
- Gwynedd Mercy University – Gwynedd Valley, PA
- Holy Family University – Philadelphia, PA
- Immaculata University – Immaculata, PA
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania – Indiana, PA
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania – Kutztown, PA
- La Salle University – Philadelphia, PA
- Lancaster Bible College – Lancaster, PA
- Lebanon Valley College – Annville, PA
- Lehigh University – Bethlehem, PA
- Lincoln University – Lincoln University, PA
- Marywood University – Scranton, PA
- Mercyhurst University – Erie, PA
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania – Millersville, PA
- Missio Theological Seminary – Philadelphia, PA
- Moravian University – Bethlehem, PA
- Pennsylvania State University – University Park, PA
- Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College – Erie, PA
- Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg – Middletown, PA
- Pennsylvania State University-World Campus – Online
- Pennsylvania Western University – California, PA
- Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – Philadelphia, PA
- Point Park University – Pittsburgh, PA
- Robert Morris University – Moon Township, PA
- Rosemont College – Rosemont, PA
- Saint Joseph’s University – Philadelphia, PA
- Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania – Shippensburg, PA
- Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania – Slippery Rock, PA
- Temple University – Philadelphia, PA
- Thomas Jefferson University – Philadelphia, PA
- University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, PA
- University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, PA
- University of Scranton – Scranton, PA
- Villanova University – Villanova, PA
- Waynesburg University – Waynesburg, PA
- West Chester University of Pennsylvania – West Chester, PA
- Widener University – Chester, PA
- York College of Pennsylvania – York, PA
This list includes both public and private institutions, each offering unique psychology programs. Prospective students should research program specifics, faculty expertise, and potential career outcomes before applying. The next section will highlight APA-accredited psychology programs in Pennsylvania for those seeking licensure-track degrees.
APA-Accredited Psychology Programs in Pennsylvania
Accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA) is a critical factor for students pursuing psychology degrees, particularly those aiming for licensure as clinical psychologists. APA accreditation ensures that a program meets rigorous academic and professional standards, including comprehensive coursework, supervised clinical training, and research opportunities. While not all psychology programs require APA accreditation, it is essential for those seeking careers in clinical practice or aiming to work in regulated psychological services.
Students interested in licensure or high-quality doctoral education should explore APA-accredited programs and consult the APA website for additional resources on accredited institutions, career pathways, and licensure requirements.
List of APA-Accredited Psychology Programs in Pennsylvania
The following institutions offer APA-accredited psychology programs at the doctoral level, including Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs in clinical, counseling, and school psychology.
- Carlow University – Pittsburgh
- Chatham University – Pittsburgh
- Chestnut Hill College – Philadelphia
- Drexel University – Philadelphia
- Duquesne University – Pittsburgh
- Holy Family University – Newtown
- Immaculata University – Immaculata
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania – Indiana
- La Salle University – Philadelphia
- Lehigh University – Bethlehem
- Marywood University – Scranton
- Pennsylvania State University – University Park
- Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – Philadelphia
- Point Park University – Pittsburgh
- Temple University – Philadelphia
- University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia
- University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh
- West Chester University of Pennsylvania – West Chester
- Widener University – Chester
These institutions provide rigorous training in clinical psychology and related fields, preparing graduates for licensure, research, and advanced professional practice. Students should visit program websites to learn more about specializations, faculty research interests, clinical training opportunities, and admission requirements.
How to Plan Your Path in Psychology Education
Pursuing a psychology degree requires careful planning to ensure alignment with your career goals, licensure requirements, and academic interests. Whether you are just beginning your studies or considering an advanced degree, understanding your options can help you make informed decisions. The following steps outline how to navigate your educational journey in psychology.
Step 1: Define Your Career Goals
Before selecting a program, it is essential to determine your long-term career aspirations. Psychology offers diverse career pathways, including:
- Clinical and Counseling Psychology – Requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) for licensure as a psychologist.
- School Psychology – Often requires a specialist-level (Ed.S.) or doctoral degree, depending on state licensure requirements.
- Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychology – Typically requires a master’s or doctoral degree for roles in business and consulting.
- Experimental and Research Psychology – A Ph.D. is often required for academic and scientific research positions.
- Applied Psychology Fields – Forensic psychology, sports psychology, and health psychology may require a master’s or doctoral degree depending on job requirements.
Understanding whether your chosen career requires licensure will also impact your choice of degree level and specialization.
Step 2: Choose the Right Degree Level
The degree level you pursue depends on your career goals and the type of psychology work you wish to engage in:
- Bachelor’s Degree – A foundation for entry-level roles in human services, research assistance, and business-related psychology fields.
- Master’s Degree – Required for counseling roles, school psychology, and some research positions. Some specialized areas, like I/O psychology, allow for career advancement with a master’s degree.
- Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) – Required for licensure as a clinical psychologist, university professor, or high-level research role.
If your goal is to practice as a licensed psychologist, you will need to pursue a doctoral degree, while other career paths may allow for master’s-level entry.
Step 3: Research Accredited Programs
Accreditation is a key consideration when selecting a psychology program. It ensures academic quality and, in some cases, is required for licensure. There are two primary types of accreditation to consider:
- Regional Accreditation – Ensures the institution meets high academic standards. This is necessary for financial aid eligibility and degree recognition.
- APA Accreditation – Essential for students pursuing doctoral degrees in clinical, counseling, and school psychology who wish to obtain licensure.
Students should verify accreditation status through resources like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation database.
Step 4: Consider Program Format and Costs
Psychology programs are offered in various formats to accommodate different learning needs:
- Traditional On-Campus Programs – Full-time, in-person coursework with research and clinical opportunities.
- Hybrid and Online Programs – Some programs allow coursework to be completed online, though clinical training often requires in-person participation.
- Accelerated and Part-Time Programs – Ideal for working professionals looking to balance education with career responsibilities.
Cost is another critical factor. Students should compare tuition rates, scholarship availability, and assistantship opportunities. Many doctoral programs offer stipends and tuition waivers through research and teaching assistantships.
Step 5: Prepare for Admission
Admission to psychology programs, especially at the graduate level, is competitive. Strong applications typically include:
- Relevant coursework and GPA requirements – Psychology, statistics, and research methods coursework are often required.
- Letters of Recommendation – Strong endorsements from professors or professionals in the field.
- Personal Statement – A well-written statement outlining your academic interests, research experience, and career goals.
- Standardized Tests – Some programs require GRE scores, though many schools are making them optional.
- Research and Clinical Experience – Especially important for Ph.D. programs in clinical psychology.
Applicants should check specific program requirements and application deadlines to ensure they meet all necessary criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a psychology degree program can be complex, and prospective students often have questions about degree formats, licensure, and career outcomes. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about psychology education in Pennsylvania.
How do I choose between a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in psychology?
A Ph.D. in Psychology is research-focused and prepares students for careers in academia, research, and clinical practice. It typically takes 5–7 years to complete and includes a dissertation based on original research.
A Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology) is practice-oriented and designed for students who want to become licensed clinical psychologists. Psy.D. programs emphasize clinical training over research and usually take 4–6 years to complete.
Students should choose a Ph.D. if they are interested in research and teaching, while those who primarily want to practice psychology should consider a Psy.D.
Can I complete a psychology degree fully online in Pennsylvania?
Many bachelor’s and master’s programs in psychology are available fully online, particularly in applied psychology and counseling fields. However, doctoral programs in psychology generally require in-person clinical training for licensure.
Some hybrid doctoral programs allow students to complete coursework online while completing required practicums or internships in person. Students should verify program requirements and ensure they align with their career goals.
What are the licensure requirements for psychologists in Pennsylvania?
To become a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania, candidates must complete the following steps:
- Earn a Doctoral Degree
- Obtain a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in psychology from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA).
- Complete Two Years of Supervised Experience
- Year 1: The predoctoral internship (as part of an APA/CPA-accredited doctoral program) fulfills one year of the requirement.
- Year 2: The second year can be completed:
- Postdoctoral, through supervised professional experience.
- During the doctoral program, if at least 1,750 hours of practicum experience are completed (for students who started their doctoral program in Fall 2015 or later).
- If a candidate has not met the required practicum hours, they must complete additional supervised experience before licensure.
- Pass the Required Examinations
- Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) – A national licensing exam.
- Pennsylvania Psychology Law Examination (PPLE) – Assesses knowledge of Pennsylvania-specific laws and ethics for psychologists.
- Complete Continuing Education (For Initial and Ongoing Licensure)
- Before obtaining initial licensure, applicants must complete three hours of Board-approved continuing education in child abuse recognition and reporting.
- To renew a license (every two years), psychologists must complete 30 hours of continuing education, which must include:
- 3 hours in ethics
- 2 hours in child abuse recognition and reporting
- 1 hour in suicide prevention
- Submit a Licensure Application
- Apply for licensure through the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology and pay the associated fees:
- $105 for initial licensure
- $300 for biennial license renewal
- Apply for licensure through the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology and pay the associated fees:
Can out-of-state psychologists practice in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania offers licensure by endorsement for psychologists licensed in another state with equivalent requirements.
Additionally, Act 41 allows psychologists licensed in another state to apply for Pennsylvania licensure if they:
- Have at least two years of active practice experience within the past five years.
- Are in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
How long does it take to earn a psychology degree?
The time required to complete a psychology degree depends on the level of study:
- Bachelor’s Degree – Typically 4 years of full-time study.
- Master’s Degree – Usually 2–3 years, depending on specialization and part-time/full-time enrollment.
- Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) – Typically 4–7 years, including dissertation research and clinical training.
Students pursuing licensure should also account for additional time required for postdoctoral supervision and exam preparation.
What types of financial aid are available for psychology students?
Psychology students in Pennsylvania can explore various financial aid options, including:
- Federal and state grants – Such as the Pell Grant and Pennsylvania State Grant for undergraduates.
- Scholarships – Many universities and professional organizations offer funding for psychology students.
- Assistantships and Fellowships – Doctoral students may qualify for research or teaching assistantships that provide tuition waivers and stipends.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs – Licensed psychologists working in underserved areas may qualify for federal loan forgiveness programs.
Students should check with their institution’s financial aid office for specific funding opportunities.
Are there accelerated psychology degree programs in Pennsylvania?
Yes, several universities offer accelerated psychology programs, which allow students to earn their degrees in a shorter time frame. Common options include:
- Accelerated Bachelor’s-to-Master’s Programs – Enables students to earn both degrees in as little as five years.
- Fast-Track Master’s Programs – Some programs can be completed in one year with an intensive course schedule.
- Hybrid and Online Accelerated Programs – Designed for working professionals seeking a flexible and fast-paced format.
Prospective students should check individual program details to determine eligibility and course structure.
Next Steps in Your Psychology Education Journey
Choosing the right psychology program in Pennsylvania is a significant step toward building a successful career in research, clinical practice, or applied psychology. Whether you’re considering a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, understanding accreditation, program formats, and licensure requirements will help you make an informed decision.
To move forward:
- Explore program options by reviewing schools that align with your career goals.
- Visit program websites to learn more about faculty, curriculum, and admission requirements.
- Contact admissions offices for details on application deadlines, financial aid, and licensure pathways.
- Prepare your application materials early to meet competitive program requirements.
By taking these steps, you’ll be well on your way to earning a psychology degree and advancing toward a meaningful career in the field.