Fastest PsyD Programs in Washington for 2025

If you're planning to pursue a career in clinical psychology, then earning a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree can be a great path forward. Perhaps you'd like to know more about this type of degree and are curious about the fastest PsyD programs available in your home state of Washington.

Keep reading as we explore accelerated PsyD programs and everything they involve. We'll also look at schools in Washington and beyond that offer these types of degrees and answer a few questions you may have.

What Is a PsyD Program?

A PsyD program is a terminal doctoral degree in psychology, similar to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in psychology but differing in focus. PhD programs are research-heavy and prepare students for a range of careers, while PsyD programs focus on professional practice and are designed to help students pursue a variety of clinical opportunities.

PsyD programs are generally shorter than PhD programs but cover many of the same topics. Students gain essential knowledge and skills in psychopathology, psychology ethics, psychotherapy, and more.

Some PsyD programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). Students graduating from these programs are typically eligible to pursue state licensure and begin careers as licensed psychologists.

How Fast Can I Earn My PsyD in Washington?

Most PsyD programs take about four to five years to complete, though some may take six years or longer. Students enrolled in PsyD programs with no dissertation requirements often graduate in four years or less.

Some schools offer accelerated or advanced standing programs to help students finish their education sooner. These intensive psychology programs can sometimes be completed in three years or less.

Are There Any 3-Year PsyD Programs in Washington?

Unfortunately, Washington does not boast any accelerated PsyD programs. The fastest programs available are completed in about five years, so there are no three-year psychology programs in the state.

That said, students can pursue 3-year PsyD programs online or in-person at out-of-state schools. We'll take a look at some top options a little later in this article.

Fastest APA-Accredited PsyD Programs in Washington

Washington boasts two APA-accredited PsyD programs, both of which are typically completed in five years. Let's take a closer look at these doctoral programs.

1. Northwest University

Northwest University is a private Christian school located in Kirkland. It offers a five-year post-bachelor's PsyD degree consisting of 121 credit hours.

This program is completed on-campus and focuses on social and multicultural issues from a Christian perspective. Students take courses typically a couple of nights per week and complete clinical components at both local and international locations.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,060 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,060 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Five years
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. Antioch University Seattle

Antioch University is a private school system with multiple locations throughout the U.S., including one in Seattle. Students at this campus can complete a PsyD in clinical psychology within five years.

The 140-credit program is completed in person. Students complete coursework and immersive, hands-on training experiences, benefiting from a competency-based learning model that ensures they are meeting basic standards throughout the program.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,104 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,104 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Five years
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Other Accelerated PsyD Programs

Completing your PsyD at a school outside of Washington might make it possible for you to graduate sooner. Let's look at some out-of-state universities offering accelerated PsyD degrees, including some that offer the best online PsyD programs.

University of Denver

The University of Denver is a private school located in Colorado. Its PsyD in clinical psychology is one of the oldest such programs in the nation.

Students in this degree program complete courses on campus and begin participating in clinical experiences from their first quarter. The program requires full-time attendance and is designed for completion within three years.

• Average in-state tuition: $40,885 per year
• Average out-of-state tuition: $40,885 per year
• Time to completion: Three years
• Accreditation: HLC

The Chicago School

The Chicago School is headquartered in Chicago but has various locations throughout the U.S. It offers various psychology degrees, including a PsyD in applied clinical psychology that students can complete online.

This is an intensive program that requires a commitment to full-time studies. Students typically graduate with their degree in three years.

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

Meridian University

Meridian University is a private, for-profit school headquartered in California. It offers a PsyD in clinical psychology that students can complete in a hybrid format.

The program offers both post-bachelor's and post-master's entry options. Those with a qualifying master's degree who fulfill all other requirements can graduate in just under three years.

• Average in-state tuition: $676 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $676 per credit hour
• Time to completion: 33 to 48 months
• Accreditation: WSCUC

How We Rank Schools

We strive to include only top programs when creating our rank lists. Below, we've included the selection criteria we used to choose the schools featured above:

• Accreditation: All of the schools are institutionally accredited, and some of the PsyD programs maintain APA accreditation.
• Program length: All of the programs can be completed in the fastest timeframes possible, with the out-of-state schools all offering accelerated degrees.
• Program reputation and quality: Each of the schools provide high-quality programs and are known for their academic excellence.
• Affordability: Each school provides affordable tuition and/or financial aid and funding opportunities for doctoral students.

FAQs About Accelerated PsyD Programs in Washington

If you still have questions about completing a fast clinical psychology program, you're not alone. Read on as we look at some frequently asked questions you may be wondering about.

Are There Any 2-Year PsyD Programs in Washington?

Though two-year PsyD degrees offer the fastest way to become a psychologist, there are very few of them available. Unfortunately, Washington does not offer any two-year programs; the fastest completion times available in the state are five years.

What Can I Do With a PsyD Degree?

PsyD degrees lead to many different types of clinical psychology careers. PsyD programs often offer specializations to help students pursue specific career goals. For example, a PsyD in forensic psychology can lead to a career as a forensic psychologist; a PsyD in neuropsychology, to a career in neuropsychology. Other common specializations include school psychology, developmental psychology, and behavioral science.

Do Online PsyD Programs Require In-Person Clinical Training?

Yes, most online PsyD programs require students to complete required clinical components in person. Hands-on training through practicums, internships, externships, and more help students practice what they learn in the classroom and develop skills they will need in their careers.

What Financial Aid Is Available for PsyD Students?

Many types of financial aid are available for doctoral students in psychology programs. Common types of aid available through schools include scholarships, grants, fellowships, assistantships, and stipends. Additionally, students can apply for federal aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Explore Online Doctorate Degrees

If you're ready to earn your PsyD quickly, explore the programs at the schools featured here on Learn.org. Contact any of the universities to learn more about the degree programs available and to choose the best option for you.