Online Ph.D. In Behavorial Psychology

As a field that studies the interrelationship of thoughts, behaviors, emotions, and perceptions, behavioral psychology encompasses clinical applications and research. Behavioral psychologists identify and investigate problematic behaviors and seek ways to promote healthier and more positive actions through appropriate interventions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists earn a median annual salary of $82,180. Behavioral psychologists often work directly with patients in a clinical counseling environment. Psychologists with a doctorate can also work as college professors and research scientists.

Doctoral Behavioral Psychology Questions

Why Get a Degree in Behavioral Psychology?

States require psychologists to hold licensure if they wish to work directly with clients. Some states also require licensure for psychologists working in academia and the private sector. While specific licensure criteria vary between states, a Ph.D. in behavioral psychology typically meets the educational requirement for a state license.

Several colleges and universities offer online psychology degrees. Online programs often cost less since enrollees do not incur fees for campus housing and parking. Many online programs feature asynchronous classes and accelerated delivery formats, allowing working students to continue their careers.

How Much Does a Behavioral Psychology Degree Cost?

Several factors influence the cost of graduate school, including whether the school is private or public and whether learners enroll in an online or on-campus program. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students who enrolled in an in-state postgraduate program spent an average of $12,170 in the 2018-19 academic year. Enrollees in private colleges and universities spent an average of $27,780.

Learners can often save money by enrolling in online programs. Some institutions allow out-of-state online enrollees to pay in-state tuition. Since this can lead to substantial savings, students should determine whether their desired college or university offers this benefit.

At the doctoral level, universities often offer teaching or research fellowships for Ph.D. candidates. This helps lower degree costs and also enables enrollees to advance in their career and research.

Calculating the Cost of a College Degree

Learners can use the calculation tool below to compare attendance costs between schools. Most schools include the required information on their websites. Prospective online enrollees should note that some colleges charge an additional technology fee per credit or per course. Some schools also charge lower tuition per credit for full-time online students.

How Much Do Behavioral Psychology Majors Make?

Salaries vary on many factors, including behavioral psychologists' industry and state. According to the BLS, the top-paying industries for behavioral psychologists include outpatient care centers ($109,100), childcare services ($105,670), and home healthcare services ($103,520). Health practitioners' offices and junior colleges also pay high annual mean wages of $101,860 and $100,470, respectively.

Location also influences how much behavioral psychologists make. The top-paying locations for these professionals include California ($115,830), Hawaii ($110,780), Louisiana ($109,180), Oregon ($108,000), and the District of Columbia ($106,920). California also hires the most psychologists with 17,210 professionals employed in this role.

Courses in Behavioral Psychology

Although behavioral psychology degree requirements vary between schools, many colleges and universities offer the core courses below. Doctoral candidates can usually develop an individualized plan of study to support their educational and career objectives. Prospective students can discuss their research and professional goals with their academic or dissertation advisor. See below for some common courses for behavioral psychology students.

Licensure for Behavioral Psychology PhDs

States require clinical psychologists to be licensed before they can practice. A state licensing board determines specific licensure requirements for their jurisdiction. Although not typically required, certification allows professionals to showcase their knowledge and training in a specific field. The issuing organization determines the requirements for particular certifications.

Scholarships for Behavioral Psychology

At the doctoral level, most universities support students through fellowships and grants that typically require recipients to take on teaching or research responsibilities. Many private nonprofits and organizations with ties and professional interests in the field also administer financial aid programs. Read below for three opportunities for behavioral psychology degree students.