In 2014, recipients of research doctorates in psychology took a median of 7.0 yearsopens in new window (PDF, 47KB) from graduate school entry to complete their degrees, according to the National Science Foundation's Survey of Earned Doctoratesopens in new window.
APA publishes a book titled Graduate Study in Psychology, which can usually be found in university libraries.
Graduate programs are listed by states and include detailed descriptions about programs, including application information, financial aid, tuition and housing.
The APA Education Directorate and APAGS—the American Psychological Association of Graduate Students—also provide information for students.
To begin a graduate program in psychology in the United States, you need to have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. If you have already a diploma in psychology, you might be eligible to apply for a master’s program. If not, most universities might ask you to take the undergraduate exams before you are accepted into a graduate program. In any case, the final decision is that of the university to which you apply.
APA's Internship topic page has a variety of information.
You can find information about the matching program at the APPIC Internship Matching Programopens in new window website.
There are many issues related to academic equivalency of different degree programs across nations, even English-speaking countries such as the United States and United Kingdom. Although these issues are being addressed by educators, including psychologists, they remain unresolved. A university registrar may be able to offer you guidance on how equivalence of international academic credentials is verified.
Should you plan to pursue a career in psychology that includes practicing in the United States, be aware that there are statutory and regulatory requirements for licensure in the different state (and Canadian provincial) jurisdictions, and you should try to determine in advance how your education and training outside the United States will meet those requirements.
Read our list of frequently asked questions to see if an online program is right for you.