Fastest PsyD Programs in Colorado for 2025

If you're thinking about becoming a psychologist, you may already know that you'll need to complete a doctoral program. You'd like to earn a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), and you're wondering which schools in your home state of Colorado offer the fastest PsyD programs.

Keep reading as we explore some top schools with accelerated PsyD programs for students in Colorado. We'll also take a closer look at what a PsyD program is and answer some related questions you may have.

What Is a PsyD Program?

A PsyD program is a type of psychology program for doctoral students. It is one of two types of terminal psychology degrees � with the other, more common option being the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in psychology.

PsyD programs and PhD programs cover many of the same topics, such as psychopathology, research methods, and psychology ethics. But while PhD programs are research-focused programs, PsyD programs are professional degrees designed for those interested specifically in clinical practice.

PsyD degrees focus on applying psychology research to real-world scenarios. They often feature specializations in clinical psychology, school psychology, developmental psychology, and more, leading to careers in those specific fields.

How Fast Can I Earn My PsyD in Colorado?

PsyD programs are generally shorter than PhD programs, which can take up to seven years for full-time learners to complete. PsyD degrees are typically completed within four to five years, though some PsyD programs with no dissertation may be a little shorter.

Students who enroll in accelerated or flexible online PsyD programs, or those who have previous doctoral credits to transfer, may be able to complete their studies in a much shorter timeframe. Some of the quickest PsyD programs can be finished in as little as two to three years.

Are There Any 3-Year PsyD Programs in Colorado?

There are a few different universities in Colorado that offer PsyD programs, two of which are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). One of these programs, available through the University of Denver, is designed to be completed in three years.

This program is available on campus only � there are no 3-year PsyD programs online in Colorado. That said, various out-of-state schools offer hybrid and fully online PsyD programs that can be completed from anywhere, including Colorado. We'll take a closer look at a few of these programs below.

Fastest APA-Accredited PsyD Programs in Colorado

As noted above, one school in Colorado offers an APA-accredited, accelerated PsyD program. Let's take a closer look at the University of Denver and what it has to offer.

1. University of Denver

The University of Denver is a private school with a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. One of the options is a PsyD in clinical psychology.

This full-time program requires continuous enrollment throughout the fall, winter, spring, and summer quarters, making it possible to graduate within three years. A part-time option is available, but students are required to be pre-approved for part-time status, and the program will take longer than three years for part-time learners to complete.

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

Other Accelerated PsyD Programs

If you're studying online, then it doesn't matter whether your school is located in Colorado or elsewhere. Let's look at some of the best online PsyD programs available through schools in other states.

Meridian University

Meridian University is a private, for-profit school headquartered in Petaluma, CA. It offers a PsyD in clinical psychology that students can complete in campus-based or hybrid formats.

Students can enroll in this program every quarter and can enroll with only a bachelor's degree. The program can be completed in as little as 33 months, or 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: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

The Chicago School

The Chicago school is a private university headquartered in Chicago, providing degrees in numerous professional fields. One of these is an online PsyD in applied clinical psychology.

This program can be completed in just three years of full-time study. Learners must hold a master's degree to pursue enrollment in this program.

• 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 to five years
• Accreditation: WSCUC

University of Arizona Global Campus

The University of Arizona is a large public school that provides accessible online degrees for adults through its Global Campus. One of the programs available is a PsyD.

Though students often take four years to complete the program, the flexible nature of the degree makes it possible to finish sooner. Courses are available in accelerated six- and nine-week sessions, and students can transfer up to 30 credits into the program to jump-start their doctoral degrees.

• Average in-state tuition: $812 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $812 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Varies
• Accreditation: HLC

Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide is affiliated with the multi-campus Touro University System, based in New York. Learners at this school can earn a PsyD in human and organizational psychology 100% online.

This program is designed to prepare students for careers in industrial and organizational psychology. Eight-week course sessions and flexible study options make it possible for highly motivated students to graduate in as little as two and a half years.

• Average in-state tuition: $700 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $700 per credit hour
• Time to completion: 2.5 to 3.5 years
• Accreditation: WSCUC

How We Rank Schools

We endeavor to choose only high-quality programs when creating our school rank lists. Let's look at the selection criteria we used when choosing the clinical psychology programs above.

• Accreditation: Each institution maintains regional accreditation from a nationally recognized accrediting body, and some of the programs are also APA-accredited.
• Program length: All of the degrees can prepare students for psychologist licensure within three years or less.
• Program reputation and quality: Each school is known for its commitment to academic excellence in its online and in-person degree programs.
• Affordability: All of the schools provide affordable tuition rates and/or opportunities to earn generous funding and financial aid.

FAQs About Accelerated PsyD Programs in Colorado

If you are still wondering about how to become a licensed psychologist quickly through an accelerated PsyD program, keep reading. Below, we'll provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

Are There Any 2-Year PsyD Programs in Colorado?

Two-year PsyD programs provide the fastest way to become a psychologist in the U.S., but they are also extremely rare. There are no schools in Colorado that provide this type of program; the fastest PsyD available in the state is typically completed within three years.

What Can I Do With a PsyD Degree?

There are many different specializations within the field of psychology; many PsyD programs reflect these specializations and allow students to pursue career paths in those specializations. For example, if you earn a PsyD in forensic psychology, you could forge a career in forensic psychology. You could also earn your PsyD in neuropsychology and work in this specialized field. Various other options are available, such as social psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and counseling psychology.

Do Online PsyD Programs Require In-Person Clinical Training?

Most online PsyD programs provide online coursework only; students will still need to complete clinical experiences and other program components in person. These in-person requirements are essential for helping students develop the interpersonal skills necessary to thrive in psychology.

What Financial Aid Is Available for PsyD Students?

Different schools feature different financial aid options, but many offer a range of opportunities like assistantships, fellowships, internships, and scholarships for PsyD students. Learners are also encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can help them qualify for federal aid like grants and student loans.

Explore Online Doctorate Degrees

If you're ready to start or continue your psychology journey, explore the schools featured here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the universities to find out more about their PsyD programs and to choose the best one for you.