Fastest PsyD Programs in Texas for 2025

It normally takes at least four years to complete a doctoral program in psychology, given how extensive the professional training is for practicing psychologists. However, you can also meet the license requirements for becoming a psychologist by enrolling in accelerated PsyD programs.

These fast-track degrees make it possible to master every aspect of clinical psychology, school psychology, and other in-demand concentrations in as little as three years. This article will introduce you to the fastest PsyD programs in or near Texas.

What Is a PsyD Program?

You can earn a PsyD from an accredited clinical psychology program in almost every state in the country. This prepares students for the highest levels of clinical therapy, including the highest-paid professions in private practice, government entities, or in education as a school psychologist. Normally, the entire curriculum for this terminal degree takes between four to six years to complete, but now you can finish it much quicker through accelerated PsyD programs with a blend of in-person and online courses.

PsyD programs may have some overlap with the curriculum you would find in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program. The two degrees differ in their focus on either clinical therapy (the traditional PsyD emphasis) versus producing original research in the field (typical among PhDs).

Although some clinical therapists complete a traditional dissertation, this is not always mandatory for PsyD candidates. There are several PsyD programs with no dissertation requirements whatsoever.

How Fast Can I Earn My PsyD in Texas?

PsyD degrees can last anywhere from four to six years if you pursue a traditional curriculum. Some Texas colleges permit students to earn the degree in about three years, however.

These are among the best online PsyD programs, as they help you fulfill all the state's licensing requirements for psychologists. The fastest way to become a psychologist is to focus on completing graduate education and getting supervised experience as quickly as possible.

Are There Any 3-Year PsyD Programs in Texas?

There is one multi-campus university (The Chicago School) that offers 3-year PsyD programs online. It is important to note, however, that students must approach these degree programs with full-time effort. Each fast-track doctorate still requires intensive study through practicum experience, supervised internships, and predoctoral training � and sometimes a capstone project or thesis.

Fastest APA-Accredited PsyD Programs in Texas

Below is a university in Texas you should consider if you wish to earn your PsyD in less than four years. It offers in-depth training in fields like behavioral psychology, clinical psychology, school psychology, and more.

1. The Chicago School

The Chicago School has multiple campuses, including one in Dallas. It offers a traditional track, which takes five years, but also a fast-track way to finish the PsyD within three years. The latter option focuses on more online coursework and prepares graduates for private practice or employment in hospitals, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and more.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,815 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,815 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Three years
• Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)

Other Accelerated PsyD Programs

You can also explore these other four programs for graduate education in psychology. These are some of the most reputable public schools and online universities.

Alliant International University

Alliant International University's online PsyD program takes between two to three years to finish. Future students must submit applications in time for the fall enrollment deadline. The graduate program places its greatest emphasis on marital and family therapy, but there are other opportunities to specialize in clinical counseling, organizational psychology, and psychopharmacology.

• Average in-state tuition: $1,299 per credit hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $1,299 per credit hour
• Time to completion: Two to three years
• Accreditation: APA

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University's PsyD program features full-time and in-person attendance for students who wish to specialize in clinical therapy or school counseling. The program accomplishes this by training graduate students in subfields like cognitive psychology, behavioral biology and psychology, research methodology, and more.

The tuition may be somewhat lower than other PsyD offerings as well. Plus, you can offset costs by getting scholarships and other financial aid.

• Average in-state tuition: $5,120.28 per semester
• Average out-of-state tuition: $10,479.78 per semester
• Time to completion: Three years
• Accreditation: APA

Walden University

Walden University is a dedicated online college, which permits students to pursue a PsyD in various concentrations. Its most common focus is in behavioral leadership, and you can complete this degree in as little as two years with full-time enrollment. Prospective students do not need to submit standardized test scores or application fees to gain admission.

• Average in-state tuition: $630 per quarter hour
• Average out-of-state tuition: $630 per quarter hour
• Time to completion: Two to three years
• Accreditation: APA

George Washington University

George Washington University has a reputable PsyD program, which many students finish within three years (nine semesters of full-time work). Graduate students receive training through rigorous clinical practicum courses and can pursue one of three specializations.

Its ''adult track'' focuses on psychotherapy for adults, whereas the ''child track'' features the same with a focus on children and adolescents. You can also complete an ''assessment track'' to do research into the validity and application of psychological tests and assessment instruments.

• Average in-state tuition: $52,444 (total program costs)
• Average out-of-state tuition: $52,444 (total program costs)
• Time to completion: Three years
• Accreditation: APA

How We Rank Schools

Here's an explanation of how we rank the schools offering psychology programs at the doctoral level. Our list only includes accredited universities, fast-track degrees, with quality education and affordable tuition.

• Accreditation: Programs must receive accreditation from a psychology review board, such as the APA.
• Program length: These are degrees you can complete within less than four years.
• Program reputation and quality: These are among the most reputable universities in or near Texas.
• Affordability: Although PsyD programs are often expensive, we attempt to identify the more affordable options, especially those that offer generous graduate school funding.

FAQs About Accelerated PsyD Programs in Texas

Check out this list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding doctoral education in Texas. This includes whether it's possible to attend graduate school online for exciting concentrations, like a PsyD in forensic psychology.

Are There Any 2-Year PsyD Programs in Texas?

There are no two-year programs in Texas, but according to its website, you may be able to complete a PsyD in two years by attending Alliant International University, located in California. However, it may be more common for doctoral students to take closer to three years to finish the university's fast-track program.

What Can I Do With a PsyD Degree?

PsyD graduates often assume important positions in clinical psychology, school psychology, mental health therapy, and counseling. Many clinical positions require either a PsyD or PhD in psychology in the State of Texas. This includes establishing private practice, conducting research, treating psychiatric patients, and administering controlled medications.

Do Online PsyD Programs Require In-Person Clinical Training?

This depends on the delivery method the university uses for its degree programs. If it says ''100% online'' or ''fully online'' on its program website, then it does not require in-person practicum requirements.

This is less common, though, since most doctoral programs require face-to-face interactions, especially the supervised experience a psychologist must obtain for licensing. Most graduate programs, including those with novel concentrations, like a PsyD in neuropsychology, offer either in-person curriculum or a hybrid of online coursework and in-person training.

What Financial Aid Is Available for PsyD Students?

Some graduate departments grant full funding to every admitted student, whereas others only offer it conditionally. Most funding involves working as either a graduate research assistant or a teaching assistant, depending on the progress the student makes in their program. PsyD students can also secure external funding sources through fellowships, Pell Grants, and student loans.

Explore Online Doctorate Degrees

Learn.org welcomes you to learn more about PsyD programs, psychologist licensure, and all the other requirements to become a licensed psychologist in your state. Our resources can help you find accredited doctoral programs (online or in-person) anywhere in America.