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Best Online Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programs

By Bailey Fletcher • Experts Zita Chriszto, Veronica West • Updated 7/18/2025

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Our list of the best online clinical psychology doctoral programs features accredited schools ranked by the number of psychology doctorate graduates, highlighting demand, virtual learning infrastructure, and peer trust.

Key Takeaways:

  • Liberty University ranks #1 overall with 40 graduates from its online PhD in Psychology.
  • The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online ranks #2 and stands out for its 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

For more details, visit our methodology page. We also spoke with clinical psychologists to provide real-world insight into the value of earning this doctoral degree online.

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Want an online degree that's:

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  • Highly Rated
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Best Online Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programs

Tuition numbers were manually collected and verified where noted
Over 75,000 student surveys informed our recommendation rates
Rank School Graduates Annual Tuition Median Salary Recommendation
# 1 #1 Liberty University 40 $8,925 N/A 75%
# 2 #2 Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online 32 $38,214 $97,361 76%
# 3 #3 National University 17 $16,710 N/A N/A
# 4 #4 Saybrook University Hybrid Online 9 $25,206 N/A 89%
# 5 #5 Capella University 8 $16,095 $95,197 77%

What the 5 Most Popular Online Clinical Psychology Doctorates Reveal

Online doctoral programs in clinical psychology are rare. Of the hundreds of institutions offering psychology bachelor's degrees, only a small handful graduate significant numbers of students each year at the doctoral level. 

Our list narrows it down to just five schools leading the way in terms of program popularity, measured by the highest number of clinical psychology doctoral graduates in the most recent year.

So what do these five programs reveal about what it takes to succeed in this space? Below, we dig into the data so you don't have to.

Why Graduate Counts Matter in Psychology

Popularity in a doctoral clinical psychology context is a proxy for student success. Online doctoral programs in psychology or clinical psychology are rigorous by nature, requiring intense coursework, practicum or internship components, and long-term engagement. Completion isn’t guaranteed, and attrition can be high.

So when programs like Liberty University, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online (TCSPP), and National University each report dozens of recent graduates, that’s a green flag. It means:

  • Students are not only enrolling, but finishing.

  • Institutional systems are likely in place to support remote learners over multi-year timelines.

  • Curriculum design and faculty engagement are enabling student progression.

As Ebony Wilson, a recent TCSPP graduate, put it:

“It has been an absolute pleasure being a PhD student at TCSPP… The professors have a wealth of knowledge, they are concerned about your academic well-being and are quick to respond.” (Graduated 2022)

In a field like psychology, where relationship-building, faculty mentorship, and long-term commitment are essential, graduate volume becomes a reliable indicator of program strength.

Online Scale Matters — But So Does Online Support

One of the standout patterns across these five schools is massive online enrollment, but with key differences in how that scale translates into lived student experience.

Liberty University, for example, reports a staggering 48,101 online students, placing it in the top 1% nationally for online enrollment. And yet, students consistently cite the personalized support they receive. Ashley (Graduated 2013) shared:

“If you are looking to truly learn and become an expert and knowledgeable professional, then Liberty Online is for you.”

In contrast, TCSPP boasts one of the lowest student-to-faculty ratios in this list — 7:1, placing it in the top 7% nationally for student access to professors. This attention given to students, especially online ones, makes a huge difference. TCSPP students like Jessica Contreras (Graduated 2016) backs up this raw data with her personal experience:

“Staff and faculty are great! They are available and willing to work with you… I would recommend both this school and program to anyone interested in the field.”

National University, with its vast online presence still manages to give that one-on-one feel. According to Jerry Green:

“The 1:1 relationship I had with my mentors was outstanding… If you come to NCU to seek a doctoral degree, just realize that it will be very tough — but the knowledge you gain will be amazing.”

So while some schools deliver scale through large peer networks, others differentiate through faculty accessibility or mentoring models. This contrast is critical when deciding which type of doctoral support system works best for your learning style.

Program Identity: Not All Clinical Psychology Doctorates Are the Same

Though these five programs share the common goal of advancing psychological expertise, they differ significantly in licensure pathways, academic focus, and philosophical orientation.

Liberty University

Liberty offers a PhD in General Psychology, which is non-clinical and research-focused. This is best suited for those who are not interested in clinical practice or licensure preparation but want to pursue academic careers, consulting roles, or applied research positions. Another unique quality is that it aligns with Liberty’s Christian worldview.

Capella University

In contrast, Capella provides a PsyD in Clinical Psychology, a practice-based doctorate intended to prepare students for clinical licensure. Capella’s program involves clinical immersion. There are six intensive sessions, a practicum, and an internship.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online

TCSPP offers a PsyD in Applied Clinical Psychology, balancing clinical training with an emphasis on real-world application. The school’s low 7:1 student-faculty ratio positions it well those who prefer close mentorship in a practitioner-scholar model.

National University

National University confers a PhD in Psychology that can be tailored to align with various interests through niche concentrations, like Psychology of Gender and Sexual Fluidity, Social Policy and Behavioral Health Administration, and Trauma and Disaster Relief. If you are a self-directed student pursuing research or specialized consulting paths, this is a solid option. 

Saybrook University

Saybrook Hybrid Online offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology grounded in humanistic psychology. The program's identity is rooted in holistic, experiential learning. So, it's ideal if you feel yourself drawn to alternative approaches to mental health and integrative practices.

In short, some of these doctoral programs in clinical psychology are research-intensive, while others are clinically oriented. A couple even offer philosophical or religious perspectives that depart from the mainstream. Prospective students should pay close attention to these differences, especially when it comes to licensure eligibility.

Online Psychology Doctorates: Experts Warn They're Not Easier — Just Different

Clinical Psychologist Zita Chriszto and Veronica West, founder of My Thriving Mind, bring firsthand insight into the changing world of distance-based psychology education. From the PhD vs. PsyD decision to navigating digital practicum requirements, both experts emphasize that success in an online format demands self-discipline, strong digital competencies, and proactive relationship-building, especially during clinical training.

Online Students Must Show Up Fully: Expert Advice from a Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Headshot of Zita Chriszto

DHA-Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Zita Chriszto is a Dubai-based clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety, psychosomatic conditions, and cross-cultural mental health. A doctoral candidate with international training and licensure, she blends psychodynamic and integrative approaches in her work with both children and adults. Her clinical perspective is shaped by her experience across Finland, Switzerland, Germany, and the UAE.

"As a Clinical Psychologist with a PhD and international practice experience, I often see both the promise and pitfalls of pursuing an online doctoral degree in psychology. Here’s my insight:

Theoretical aspects of Psychology translate well to Distance learning. The quality of interpersonal and experiential learning, especially in clinical teaching, can therefore erode if not consciously scaffolded. Students need to look for programs that emphasize work with real clients, even by video conference."

PhD vs. PsyD — how do students decide?

"The distinction is crucial. A PhD is geared towards those interested in conducting research or teaching at the college level, while a PsyD is designed for those who wish to practice psychology (and not necessarily at the doctoral level). Online students will be able to measure their long-term goals against the desired programs outcomes and accreditation."

What should students look for when evaluating clinical practicum opportunities in an online psychology program?

"Make sure there are strong, validated relationships in place between your program and clinical sites in your area. Ask about the quality of supervision, diversity of client populations and whether you will get experience in modalities like teletherapy now an industry norm."



Employers look for candidates who can preserve therapeutic rapport and ethics in virtual environments.


How has the rise of teletherapy reshaped what employers expect from new psychology graduates?

"Graduates today need to be proficient in digital platforms, amenable to hybrid care, and culturally competent in virtual encounters. Employers look for candidates who can preserve therapeutic rapport and ethics in virtual environments."

It’s a myth, [however], that this renders online programs any less rigorous, and many students underestimate what challenge they’re taking on or assume such programs are somehow 'easier.' Well, as it turns out, discipline, as well as time management and proactivity are more essential than they’ve ever been because the need for them has never been greater. You need the accreditation and faculty guidance for long-term respect."


EXPERT TIP


"View your online program like you would an in-person experience. Show up fully, form relationships with peers and supervisors and seek out a variety of clinical experiences. The degree gets a foot in but the [rest] is in your hands."


Treat Your Online Doctorate Like a Full-Time Job: Insight From a Registered Psychologist and Clinical Program Leader

Headshot of Veronica West

Registered Psychologist & Head of Clinical Programs at We Lysn

Veronica West is a registered psychologist and the Head of Clinical Programs at We Lysn and Valion Health. With over a decade of experience spanning clinical practice, telehealth delivery, and program innovation, she specializes in integrating digital tools into therapy. Veronica is also the founder of My Thriving Mind, a platform supporting early-career mental health professionals through digital resources and supervision.

"As a psychologist in practice and creator of My Thriving Mind, I create psychotherapy tools and resources for mental health clinicians and supervise early-career clinicians. Having practiced in both in-person and online care settings, I'm aware of the evolving needs of psychology training—especially for online doctoral students."

Why is psychology especially well suited — or challenging — for online instruction?

"Psychology is amenable to online instruction for research and theory, whereas clinical training requires innovative, high-quality virtual practicum support. Success will rely on self-discipline and strong communication skills."

What is most important in practicum/internship courses?

"Give preference to programs offering flexible, well-organized placements, receptive supervisors, and good support for telehealth training."

What are some common misconceptions about online doctorates in clinical psychology? 

"Most think online means less difficult or easier. Actually, it takes more independence, time management, and communication... Employers also expect that graduates will be technology-savvy, familiar with remote care, and skilled in digital therapy and assessment techniques."

What's one piece of advice for prospective doctoral students in this field? 

"Manage it as a professional full-time investment — be proactive, promote strong supervision, and establish peer relationships early."

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Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

AD

Student Reviews of Online Clinical Psychology Programs

SM, Graduated 2025

Attended: California Southern University

In my view the PsyD program was designed for adult learners looking to expand in the acquisition of clinical skills. Most of my classmates possess graduate degrees, and some are re specializing in clinical psychology in preparation for the professional practice of psychology. in fact, many students possess licenses at a master degree level. You see learners in this academic institutions are well define in the mental health profession. The degree is accredited, and the questions are: what can you... Read More

Review Date: 12/29/2024

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

SM, Graduated 2025

Co522, Graduated 2025

Attended: California Southern University

The school started off okay, but after about a year into the program they went from flexible due dates (where everything was due by the end of the 8 week term) to very strict due dates that are weekly. This was tough since I overlapped classes. In just one year I have been through 3 different advisors. This seems to be common at CSU. The majority of mentors were okay, except for one that was rude to me about my work. This is a very self-reliant program and there are no lectures, the mentors just... Read More

Review Date: 12/14/2023

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Co522, Graduated 2025

Josh J, Graduated 2025

Attended: California Southern University

The PsyD program through CSU is a rigorous program and the instructors I have had so far have been responsive, engaged and provide fair grading and feedback. My assigned advisor has also been responsive and extremely helpful. I think the CSU PsyD program is best suited for individuals who already have clinical experience and a Masters in Counseling Psychology or a degree closely related. If you don't already have this experience, I think you will probably struggle in this program. I know students... Read More

Review Date: 11/14/2023

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Josh J, Graduated 2025

May, Graduated 2024

Attended: California Southern University

The PsyD program offers a rigorous and pragmatic curriculum, demanding a high level of commitment. I selected CSU's PsyD Program because of its practical and interesting courses, which significantly enhanced my knowledge and practical skills in areas such as motivation, cognition, psychopathology, psychopharmacology, neuropsychology, and research methods. The professors are responsive, knowledgeable, and hold high expectations, contributing to the program's intensity. The faculty of the PsyD program... Read More

Review Date: 1/20/2024

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

May, Graduated 2024

Sara Russ, Graduated 2024

Attended: California Southern University

I attended this school from 2012-22 for their PsyD program. The quality of the education is horrible. They eliminated all personal contact and students are completely on their own. They also moved to Arizona. What? Recently I tried calling three different numbers and extensions and got only voicemails, which is thought was odd. I also didn’t get a return call. They have made some incredibly shady changes in recent years, which is why I withdrew. I no longer have any faith in this PsyD program. Trust... Read More

Review Date: 10/14/2022

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Sara Russ, Graduated 2024

Jason S., Graduated 2024

Attended: California Southern University

I see a lot of negative responses about communication and advising. I don't understand this. I have had great experience with my advisor. When there is a question the advisor is prompt and either answers the question directly or puts me in touch with the person who can. Communication with Professors has been amazing. Again, if I have a question the professors are quick to answer and even offer Zoom calls if requested. The subjects and assignments are engaging and the classes are designed for students... Read More

Review Date: 12/23/2022

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Jason S., Graduated 2024

Tammy, Graduated 2023

This school and degree improved my life. I had an academically demanding dissertation committee that held my feet to the academic fire. The result was publishable. But who had time for all that? I have been applying all that I learned over the years to serve my beautiful patients. A special shout out to the most academically and emotionally challenging professors, Dr. T and Dr. Ord. I gained more clinical knowledge from both of you than from all the other classes combined. You were both that good.... Read More

Review Date: 3/15/2024

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Tammy, Graduated 2023

A., Graduated 2023

Attended: California Southern University

I am completely dissatisfied with the level of administrative support I receive from the university. They switched from one platform to another (CANVAS) platform and the level of support I started with just vanished. I currently have no idea who my advisor is, nor do I know how to find that information. Also, I have left messages on the CANVAS board for advisement (as I'm almost done with coursework and want to prepare for the exam) and have had no return messages. The library is missing a lot of... Read More

Review Date: 6/17/2022

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

A., Graduated 2023

Dr.Claude, Graduated 2023

Attended: California Southern University

I started as just tipping my toes in there, but I ended up taking my PsyD degree. It was rigorous and worth it. Downfall, the academic advisors were in and out ( resigned or something). Another thing: The university waived my tuition, and it was reset to $0.00, instead of paying in $16,000.00s, I paid less than $2,000.00. I am glad for the decision I made. Good luck to you all.

Review Date: 12/21/2022

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Dr.Claude, Graduated 2023

TJ, Graduated 2020

Attended: California Southern University

I was prompted by an associate who was thinking about attending the school. They were concerned about recent negative reviews. They asked if I would attend again. I thought, hey I want to read some of the reviews. I read about all sorts of positive and negative issues. In some cases people who had complaints seemed to be dismissing situational factors like covid or even personal choice of others, meaning that blaming a school for changing a case manager or for that employee leaving when we have no... Read More

Review Date: 3/14/2023

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

TJ, Graduated 2020

J, Graduated 2020

Attended: California Southern University

I just completed my first year in the PsyD program and am so glad I chose this school. I received my Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University (wonderful and rigorous program for counseling/MFT work), and wanted to complete a PsyD for the doctoral level education, title, and option to become a clinical psychologist so that I may do psych testing in my private practice. I feel confident in my therapy techniques from my experience at Vanguard, and not sure I would feel as prepared... Read More

Review Date: 12/4/2018

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

J, Graduated 2020

Leah Lurye, Graduated 2020

Attended: Palo Alto University

I am in the Psy.D program that is a consortium between PAU and Stanford Psychiatry. This program is excellent not only in terms of rigor but in the energy that the administration puts into making sure that students are successful. They are always updating us on opportunities to get involved in research as well networking opportunities with alumni in the area. The clinical training is excellent, starting in the first year we are exposed to classes such as helping skills to then CBT in our second year.... Read More

Review Date: 1/1/2017

Attended: Palo Alto University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Leah Lurye, Graduated 2020

Dr. Bernard Klop, Graduated 2020

Attended: California Southern University

My five years as a student at California Southern University was a wonderful experience! The flexibility in programming and the quality and rigour of the courses are on par with any brick and mortar university. I had a fantastic team to support me through my dissertation journey, and was able to graduate summa cum laude. As with any university program and especially one with a distance learning format, to be successful requires a high degree of motivation and self-discipline. If you are passionate... Read More

Review Date: 5/5/2021

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Dr. Bernard Klop, Graduated 2020

Hart James Taylor, Graduated 2020

Attended: Fielding Graduate University

I am elated with Fielding Graduate University and the accreditation that is presented. The university has been very instrumental in assisting me through mentorship as well as guidance and direction throughout the curriculum. Their multidisciplinary team has been a welcoming attraction to me as a emerging neuropsychological.

Review Date: 12/4/2016

Attended: Fielding Graduate University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Hart James Taylor, Graduated 2020

Dr. W., Graduated 2019

Attended: California Southern University

I’m so sad to read all the negative reviews about the decline of CSU. I attended from 2014-2019 and it was an amazingly rigorous, compassionate, and thorough Psy.D program that I would recommend to anyone. There was turnover then but I had a wealth of support from my advisors, professors, and my doctoral project committee. This program truly helped me to carve out my area of focus and contribution for the remainder of my career.

Review Date: 5/1/2023

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Dr. W., Graduated 2019

B.S, Graduated 2018

Attended: Walden University

I have been attending Walden for almost 3 years. I swtiched programs at the end of one and now working on the degree that will work better for me and my dream job after school. Attending a=n online school is going to be hard work. Walden is not my 1st online school, I recieved my B.A in Foresnic Psychology online at Kaplan U and I have nothing bad to say. Each degree was and is hard work, there is no personal life while working on your degree and if you are working full time you have to set aside... Read More

Review Date: 11/17/2014

Attended: Walden University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

B.S, Graduated 2018

James Corcoran, Graduated 2018

Attended: Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Institute of Technology is a growing university that offers a range of academic and professional opportunities. The undergraduate faculty in the Forensic Psychology program is a great group of professors with great experiences to bring to the table, such as policing experience, research experience, and experience in working with other law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system. The Psy.D. program also provides its students with intense training in all aspects of clinical psychology... Read More

Review Date: 9/26/2016

Attended: Florida Institute of Technology

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

James Corcoran, Graduated 2018

KN, Graduated 2017

Attended: California Southern University

The attention to individuals is a huge aspect of CSU, and it is the reason I switched from Touro. While CSU is building a name, the program is solid and they have many protocols in place to address student needs. For instance, your academic advisor listens to you, and will help change things or adjust if you need to. Also, mentors and advisors are extremely well-educated, personable, and professional, unlike some other online programs out there. I am so very particular about instructional integrity,... Read More

Review Date: 9/25/2016

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

KN, Graduated 2017

Anonymous, Graduated 2017

Attended: Walden University

I have not yet graduated, but I will tell you that Walden makes you work hard, but it is worth it. I am currently on my second draft of a proposal. And it wasn't the professors fault I didnt hit a homerun the first draft. The changes they suggested had me dive in deep and I had to become an expert to create a really great literature review. They have workshops you can take it you need help. Walden is well-priced and also very convenient for working people. Walden will work with people who do not... Read More

Review Date: 11/23/2015

Attended: Walden University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Anonymous, Graduated 2017

Successful PsyD Graduate of California Southern University, Graduated 2017

Attended: California Southern University

California Southern University is a great University. My doctorate this year was the "capstone" to my career. Having been working in mental health for the past almost 30-years the University offered me an alternative way to learn and improve myself. The professors, who are called mentors were all great and highly qualified as they have experience in both the "real world" and the University which makes them more holistic individuals. Initially I started thinking it would be too much work to earn the... Read More

Review Date: 12/22/2017

Attended: California Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Successful PsyD Graduate of California Southern University, Graduated 2017

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