Fastest PsyD Programs in Ohio for 2025

Students interested in becoming psychologists typically earn one of two degrees: the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The PsyD is designed for students who prefer to work in clinical settings.

Would you like to earn this degree quickly? Some schools offer accelerated PsyD programs for faster completion. Though these programs aren't offered in Ohio, some are available in neighboring states. Keep reading to discover Ohio's fastest PsyD programs and where to find accelerated options nearby.

What Is a PsyD Program?

A PsyD prepares students to work as psychologists in their state by providing a quality educational background in intervention, assessment, lifespan treatment, psychopathology, and other foundational and advanced concepts. These programs also offer clinical training, including a practicum and an internship in an approved healthcare setting.

In most cases, students interested in a PsyD degree prepare under a traditional format that requires several years of study and training. However, students can find accelerated PsyD programs that allow them to secure licensure and start new careers sooner.

How Fast Can I Earn My PsyD in Ohio?

While the length of time to earn a PsyD degree generally depends on the program, it's common for students to complete their coursework and clinical experiences in about five years. Some schools help students graduate sooner by offering accelerated degrees. You can even find PsyD programs with no dissertation requirements. In Ohio, schools don't have accelerated options, but they do accept previous credits to reduce students' workloads.

Are There Any 3-Year PsyD Programs in Ohio?

No, you won't find a PsyD program in Ohio that helps students graduate in three years. However, schools offer programs that accept previously earned credits from another graduate-level psychology program. Are you looking to earn an accelerated degree? You can find 3-year PsyD programs online and on campus in neighboring states like Pennsylvania and Illinois.

Fastest APA-Accredited PsyD Programs in Ohio

If you're ready to secure a PsyD degree that has been accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), keep reading. Below, we'll highlight Ohio's fastest APA-accredited programs.

1. Xavier University

Xavier University in Cincinnati offers an APA-accredited Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) that focuses on lifespan psychology, psychodynamic psychotherapy, clinical psychopathology, and more. Learners also participate in clinical practicums and a yearlong internship. The program lasts five years; however, learners could reduce this timeframe if they already hold a related master's degree.

• Average in-state tuition: $915 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $915 per credit
• Time to completion: Five years (potentially less with transfer credits)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Wright State University

The PsyD in clinical psychology program at Wright State University provides generalist training to prepare each learner for a career as a licensed psychologist. Though the five-year program doesn't have an accelerated completion option, students who have taken graduate-level psychology coursework can avoid retaking some classes by seeking course waiver approval.

• Average in-state tuition: $961 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,539 per credit
• Time to completion: Five years
• Accreditation: HLC

Other Accelerated PsyD Programs

Do you want to expand your search for accelerated PsyD programs beyond Ohio? Explore the following degree options offered in nearby states.

University of Indianapolis

The University of Indianapolis is home to a clinical psychology doctorate (PsyD) that boosts students' skills in assessment, intervention, and research. The program offers completion options for students with a graduate background in the field, including the 3+1 option for learners with prior graduate education and professional clinical experience. Under this program, students complete doctoral coursework in three years and an internship in one year.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,080 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,080 per credit
• Time to completion: Three years of coursework + one year internship (3+1 option)
• Accreditation: HLC

Carlow University

The counseling psychology (PsyD) program at Carlow University in Pittsburgh is a 93-credit program delivered on campus with some online learning opportunities. While many doctoral programs admit students with a bachelor's degree, this program requires a master's degree in counseling or a closely related field. As a result, students finish their studies in four years instead of the traditional five-year timeframe.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,192 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,192 per credit
• Time to completion: 48 months
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Widener University

At Widener University in Pennsylvania, students interested in the clinical psychology (PsyD) doctoral program can choose its post-doctoral respecialization option if they've already worked as doctoral-level nonclinical psychologists and have a PhD in psychology. This campus-based program, which requires a full-time commitment, is typically completed after three years of study, including the internship.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,200 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,200 per credit
• Time to completion: Three years (respecialization)
• Accreditation: MSCHE

The Chicago School

The Chicago School's PsyD in applied clinical psychology is a good choice for students seeking accredited online PsyD programs. This degree offers online coursework and allows students to visit the Chicago School or affiliate campuses for residencies.

Clinical training includes an 800-hour practicum and a 1,500-hour internship. Learners enrolled full-time complete this accelerated doctoral program in just three years.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,633 to $1,815 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,633 to $1,815 per credit
• Time to completion: Three years
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

How We Rank Schools

Our team rigorously vetted the colleges and universities in this ranking list to verify that each has met the following criteria for delivering a quality academic experience:

• Accreditation: All institutions in this list are accredited by nationally recognized organizations, such as the HLC or MSCHE.
• Program length: Several schools have accelerated completion timeframes or accept transfer credits to help students graduate faster.
• Program reputation and quality: Each institution has a quality academic reputation and offers a psychology program accredited by the APA.
• Affordability: The schools above offer affordable tuition or help students save with scholarships and other financial aid.

FAQs About Accelerated PsyD Programs in Ohio

Are you ready to begin an accelerated PsyD program in Ohio or a nearby state? Explore the frequently asked questions below to learn more before getting started.

Are There Any 2-Year PsyD Programs in Ohio?

No, there are no two-year PsyD programs in Ohio. Schools with PsyDs in the state include Xavier University and Wright State University, which typically require five years of coursework and clinical training. Nearby states like Illinois and Pennsylvania offer programs that students can complete in as little as three years. Pursuing one of these short-term degrees is potentially the fastest way to become a psychologist.

What Can I Do With a PsyD Degree?

A PsyD opens doors to varying careers, depending on the specialty. For example, after earning a PsyD in neuropsychology, you could start a career as a clinical or cognitive neuropsychologist. Students with a PsyD in forensic psychology can qualify for roles as forensic psychologists and correctional counselors. School psychology graduates can become school psychologists and educational consultants.

Do Online PsyD Programs Require In-Person Clinical Training?

Yes, most online PsyD programs you encounter will require in-person clinical training. Programs might include mandatory short-term residencies or practicum experiences at satellite campuses. To complete the internship, schools often require students to participate in clinical rotations at a partner facility near the campus or allow learners to meet clinical requirements in their local community.

What Financial Aid Is Available for PsyD Students?

Students in PsyD programs typically have access to some form of financial aid; however, assistance varies by school. While doctoral program enrollees generally don't qualify for federal grants, they can usually borrow loans to cover tuition and fees. If you're looking for programs that provide additional financial assistance, consider schools with generous scholarships for doctoral students.

Explore Online Doctorate Degrees

Take the next step toward an exciting journey in higher education by exploring the degree programs on Learn.org. Contact schools directly to learn how they can help you achieve your goals.