The field of psychology is undergoing several changes. For example, there’s an increased focus on how to evolve research practices and reporting, including how big data can be used to acquire larger sample sizes when conducting research. There’s also a push to provide greater public access to research and better data sharing between scientists. Such changes are likely to impact the practice of psychology, focusing in on reliability, transparency, and application of information.
If pursuing an online psychology degree is in your near future, understanding how the field is changing will better prepare you for course work and, eventually, research and dissertation.
Capella University continues to evolve degree programs and corresponding course work to help students succeed when entering or advancing their career.
When deciding whether to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree, students need to determine what they want to emphasize in their professional work.
Graduates with a PhD tend to focus more on research-based knowledge – becoming proficient in conducting studies and understanding and applying research results. Many PhD graduates gravitate toward university faculty or administrative positions.
Graduates with a PsyD lean more toward the practice of clinical psychology. These professionals are equipped with clinical training and hands-on practical experience.
Interested in a PsyD in Psychology? Explore which program might be right for you.
Capella offers four PhD in Psychology degree programs.
1. Doctor of Philosophy in General Psychology
Students who choose a PhD in General Psychology learn how to plan and execute research, communicate findings, and lead advancements in the field. General psychologists need to take into account the evolving research methods within the industry and the focus on adhering to the scientific method.
Salaries for psychology careers have a broad range with an average of $67,000 per year, and the top 10% at $110,000.
Jobs commonly associated with a PhD in General Psychology include, but are not limited to:
- Instructor
- Program administrator/director
2. Doctor of Philosophy in Addiction Psychology
A PhD in Addiction Psychology prepares you to work directly with patients.
This degree teaches you to evaluate addictive behavior, and provide support and treatment for problems ranging from drug and alcohol addiction to eating disorders.
From addiction counselors to rehabilitation program directors, a PhD in Addiction Psychology qualifies you for a number of careers, all of which focus on planning and executing treatment plans.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth at 31% over the next 10 years. According to Salary.com, rehabilitation directors average $116,000 per year.
Other common careers include, but are not limited to:
- Center administrator
- Center director
- Grant writer
- Lecturer/speaker
3. Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology
Over the next 10 years, the BLS predicts that educational psychology positions will continue to provide opportunities as the education system keeps pace with growing school populations.
A PhD in Educational Psychology equips you to develop new programs that adapt to the learning needs of students through research, testing, and measurement. You will be groomed for career opportunities that extend beyond traditional school settings to community and learning centers, military settings, and governmental organizations.
The salary for educational psychology graduates can range from $47,000 – $67,000 per year.
Common careers include, but are not limited to:
- Educational activities director
- Learning systems manager
- Psychometrician
4. Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
If working in a business setting interests you, consider a PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.
Gain skills to map and respond to behavior in the workplace through employee selection and coaching, interpreting psychological tests, and adapting company policies to increase productivity.
With this degree, you will step into the fastest-growing psychology sector. A projected growth of 53% from 2012 to 2022 beats the average for occupations across all industries.
The average salary for industrial/organizational psychologists is in the top range for psychology jobs, at $83,580 per year.
Common positions with this degree include, but are not limited to:
- Labor relations director
- Human resources director
- Evidence-based coach
- Organizational consultant
For those who have a passion to discover new research that can help shape the science and practice of psychology, a PhD can prepare you to become a scientist-practitioner who influences the next generation of psychologists.
