Fastest PsyD Programs in North Carolina for 2025

If you're interested in a psychology career in North Carolina, you may be thinking about the types of degrees to pursue. You're considering a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), and you'd like to know about the fastest PsyD programs available to you.

Keep reading as we discuss accelerated PsyD programs, including some top online and in-person degrees you can earn as a resident of North Carolina. We'll also talk about what goes into a PsyD program and answer some questions you may have.

What Is a PsyD Program?

PsyD programs are a relatively new type of psychology degree. They are similar to Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in psychology, but there are some key differences.

PsyD programs are typically shorter and place less of an emphasis on research than PhD degrees. They are practice-based programs designed to help students pursue specific careers in clinical psychology or related disciplines, whereas PhD programs commonly lead to careers in academia and research.

PsyD programs cover a range of advanced psychology principles such as psychotherapy, applied research, and theories of human behavior. Though courses for PsyD and PhD programs are similar, PsyD courses tend to place an emphasis on practice, while PhD programs emphasize research.

Both PsyD and PhD programs can lead to licensure if they are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

How Fast Can I Earn My PsyD in North Carolina?

Most full-time PsyD programs take about four to five years to complete. Some can be completed in a slightly faster timeframe, especially PsyD programs with no dissertation requirements.

Some schools offer accelerated programs in person. These programs require full courseloads and continuous studies over a two- to three-year period, making it possible for students to complete their degrees more quickly.

Are There Any 3-Year PsyD Programs in North Carolina?

Yes, one school in North Carolina offers a three-year PsyD program. Students attending Western Carolina University can complete their PsyD within three years.

Additionally, some out-of-state schools offer 3-year PsyD programs online and in a hybrid format. This gives students throughout the U.S., including those in North Carolina, the flexibility to choose a program that will fit with their schedules.

Fastest APA-Accredited PsyD Programs in North Carolina

As noted, one North Carolina school offers an accelerated PsyD program that prepares students for careers as licensed psychologists. Let's take a closer look at Western Carolina University and the doctoral program it offers.

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University is a public school located in Cullowhee, NC. It offers a campus-based PsyD program designed to be completed within three years.

This full-time, APA-accredited program meets licensure requirements in North Carolina. It is a post-master's program that combines clinical and school psychology topics to provide an interdisciplinary specialization in health services psychology.

• Average in-state tuition: $572 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,167 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Three years
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Other Accelerated PsyD Programs

Online learning makes it easy to study at out-of-state schools. Let's look at some top colleges and universities that offer PsyD degrees, including some with the best online PsyD programs.

Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University is a public school in Carbondale, IL. It offers an on-campus PsyD degree with concentrations in areas such as behavior analysis, brain and cognitive, and clinical psychology.

This program offers an accelerated entry pathway for students holding a master's degree or enrolled in a program of study leading toward a master's degree. Qualifying students can complete this program within three years.

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

Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide is part of a network of private, Jewish colleges headquartered in New York. It offers a fully online PsyD degree in human and organizational psychology consisting of 66 credit hours.

This non-licensure program is ideal for students hoping to pursue careers in corporate or industrial-organizational psychology. It offers flexible eight-week course sessions and allows up to six transfer credits, making it possible for students to complete an accelerated course of study without sacrificing other work and life commitments.

• 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: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

The Chicago School

The Chicago School is headquartered in Chicago, IL, but has various campuses throughout the U.S. It also offers online degree programs, including a PsyD in applied clinical psychology.

This accelerated PsyD program can be completed in three years. Students can complete coursework online for flexibility and convenience, and in-person practicums and internships help them develop the skills they learn.

• 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: WSCUC

Walden University

Walden University is a private, for-profit online school headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. Learners at this school can pursue a PsyD degree in behavioral health leadership.

This generalized PsyD program offers a range of concentrations to choose from. Though students have up to eight years to finish the degree, the school's flexible online curriculum makes it possible to graduate much sooner, as quickly as two and a half to three years.

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

How We Rank Schools

We strive to choose top programs when creating our school rank lists. We used the following criteria when selecting the psychology programs above:

• Accreditation: All of the schools are accredited by nationally-recognized accrediting bodies. Some of the psychology programs have received APA accreditation as well.
• Program length: Each PsyD program can be completed in three years or less.
• Program reputation and quality: All of the schools offer high-quality academic programs for online and/or on-campus learners.
• Affordability: Each school features affordable tuition and/or financial aid opportunities to help students pay for school.

FAQs About Accelerated PsyD Programs in North Carolina

If you still have questions about completing an accelerated psychology program, keep reading. Below, we'll provide answers to some frequently asked questions you may be curious about.

Are There Any 2-Year PsyD Programs in North Carolina?

One of the fastest ways to become a psychologist is to complete a two-year PsyD program. Unfortunately, these types of programs are rare, and no schools in North Carolina offer them.

What Can I Do With a PsyD Degree?

There are many specific career paths you can pursue with a PsyD degree. These types of degrees often provide concentrations to align with students' career goals. For example, someone who earns a PsyD in forensic psychology can become a forensic psychologist. One who earns a PsyD in neuropsychology can pursue a career in neuropsychology. Other common job titles include psychotherapist, psychology professor, and clinical psychologist.

Do Online PsyD Programs Require In-Person Clinical Training?

Most online PhDs are actually hybrid programs � much of the coursework is completed online, but students must also attend campus from time to time for residencies, practicums, and clinical experiences. These in-person components are an essential part of any clinical psychology program, and they cannot be completed online.

What Financial Aid Is Available for PsyD Students?

Many PsyD programs provide ample funding opportunities for students. Some of the options include scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and internships. Additionally, students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if they qualify for government aid like student loans and grants.

Explore Online Doctorate Degrees

If you're ready to begin your psychology doctoral program, explore the schools featured on Learn.org. Contact any of the schools directly to find out more about their PsyD programs and to choose the best one for you.