Fastest PsyD Programs in Minnesota for 2025

Are you looking to earn a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)? The fastest PsyD programs in Minnesota typically accept transfer credits and offer other ways to speed up the process.

We'll go over accelerated PsyD programs that can help you earn your degree efficiently without sacrificing quality. These programs combine rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical training to prepare you for licensure and a career in psychology. Keep reading to discover accelerated PsyD programs.

What Is a PsyD Program?

A PsyD program focuses on training students for clinical practice in psychology through a blend of coursework, hands-on training, and research. The curriculum covers assessment, therapy techniques, ethics, and psychological testing.

There are some PsyD programs with no dissertation. However, they will likely require extensive clinical experience and projects.

Students complete supervised practicum and internships to develop real-world skills. Additionally, they conduct original research, often culminating in a dissertation. Graduates are prepared to become licensed psychologists and enter careers in counseling, mental health treatment, and applied psychology settings.

How Fast Can I Earn My PsyD in Minnesota?

Earning a PsyD in Minnesota typically takes four to six years. This includes three years of coursework, in-person training, and a year-long internship. However, accelerated paths and transfer credits are available, which can shorten this timeframe.

Are There Any 3-Year PsyD Programs in Minnesota?

There are a few 3-year PsyD programs online in Minnesota, designed for students who have already completed a relevant master's degree. These accelerated programs combine flexible online coursework with required in-person clinical training, allowing students to complete their degree faster while preparing for licensure.

Fastest Accredited PsyD Programs in Minnesota

Minnesota schools offer a selection of accelerated PsyD programs. Keep reading to learn more about these opportunities.

1. Capella University

Capella's online PsyD in clinical psychology blends online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Students must complete 1,000 practicum and 2,000 internship hours, prepare for licensure, and earn 145 quarter credits.

Students may choose to enroll full-time or part-time, which will affect how long it takes to complete the program. Coursework is self-paced, though enrollees must adhere to set deadlines.

• Average in-state tuition: $510 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $510 per credit
• Time to completion: Three to five years
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Walden University

Walden University offers one of the fastest ways to become a psychologist on this list. Those who already hold a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) can earn their PsyD in two years.

Notably, students can complete this program at their own pace. As a distance learning institution, students have the flexibility to learn from anywhere.

• Average in-state tuition: $630 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $630 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Two years
• Accreditation: HLC

3. University of St. Thomas

The University of St. Thomas offers a PsyD in counseling psychology. The program's curriculum is designed to be completed in four years. Students can complete their degrees faster than this schedule by transferring approved graduate credits into the program.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,169 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,169 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Three to four years
• Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)

4. Augsburg University

Augsburg University offers a PsyD program that requires 98 credits to graduate. Students can transfer in up to 30 credits to shorten the path to graduation.

Classes are held on campus in Minneapolis, MN. The psychology program emphasizes practitioner-scholar training, clinical competence, and social justice.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,220 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,220 per credit
• Time to completion: Four to five years
• Accreditation: APA

Other Accelerated PsyD Programs

While there are limited options within the state, aspiring psychologists can pursue programs outside of Minnesota.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers a PsyD program. Students build clinical competence through immediate practicum, diverse field placements, and a yearlong internship. The program emphasizes research, multicultural training, and teaching experience, and provides funding to graduate students.

• Average in-state tuition: $470 per credit
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,174 per credit
• Time to completion: Three to five years
• Accreditation: HLC

The Chicago School

Students can complete an online PsyD at The Chicago School. It can be completed in just three years full-time. Designed for post-master's students, this clinical psychology program features rigorous coursework, practicum, an internship, and a dissertation.

• 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 to five years
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

How We Rank Schools

We created this list using strict criteria to highlight the most accessible and reputable PsyD programs. Some of our considerations include:

• Accreditation: We prioritize programs that hold accreditation from recognized bodies like the APA, ensuring academic and professional standards.
• Program length: We chose schools that offer a shorter path toward degree completion.
• Program reputation and quality: The schools on this list offer high-quality programs.
• Affordability: We highlighted programs that have low tuition rates, financial aid, or funding opportunities.

FAQs About Accelerated PsyD Programs in Minnesota

If you're looking to enroll in an accelerated PsyD program, check out the commonly asked questions below.

Are There Any 2-Year PsyD Programs in Minnesota?

Yes, Walden University offers a doctoral program that can be completed in a couple of years. However, this two-year PsyD program requires a master's degree.

What Can I Do With a PsyD Degree?

A PsyD prepares you for clinical roles such as private practice, hospital health work, school psychology, and forensic settings. If you want to specialize in a particular field, you can choose a program that focuses on this subject. For example, you could earn a PsyD in forensic psychology or a PsyD in neuropsychology.

Do Online PsyD Programs Require In-Person Clinical Training?

Yes, even hybrid or online PsyD programs require in-person residencies. They may also require practicum and internships to develop clinical skills.

What Financial Aid Is Available for PsyD Students?

Many students in a PsyD program receive some sort of funding. Scholarships, grants, and other types of aid can help cover the costs of this education program.

Explore Online Doctorate Degrees

If you're ready to start your journey to become a psychologist, explore the accredited online PsyD programs here on Learn.org.