Georgia PsyD Programs: Complete Guide to Psychology Doctorates in 2025
Georgia offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring psychologists, with multiple APA-accredited doctoral programs that combine rigorous academic training with extensive clinical experience. Whether you’re drawn to the practice-focused PsyD or research-oriented PhD pathway, understanding your options is crucial for making an informed decision about your professional future.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- Quick Overview: Georgia Psychology Doctorate Landscape
- PsyD Programs in Georgia
- PhD Psychology Programs in Georgia
- Program Comparison Table
- Admission Requirements & Prerequisites
- How to Become a Psychologist in Georgia
- Cost Analysis & Financial Planning
- Georgia Psychologist Salary & Career Outlook
- Choosing the Right Program
- Frequently Asked Questions
This comprehensive guide examines every psychology doctorate program in Georgia, providing detailed insights into costs, requirements, outcomes, and career trajectories. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of program selection, considering the factors that matter most to your professional goals.
Quick Overview: Georgia Psychology Doctorate Landscape
Key Statistics for Georgia Psychology Programs
- Total Doctoral Programs: 6 APA-accredited programs across 4 universities
- Average Licensure Rate: 83% across all programs
- Annual Tuition Range: $7,668 (in-state) to $71,700
- Time to Completion: 4-7 years depending on program type
- Clinical Hour Requirements: 2,000-4,000 hours including internship
Georgia’s psychology doctoral landscape includes two Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs and four Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, each offering unique advantages. The state’s programs consistently demonstrate strong outcomes, with Georgia Southern University achieving an impressive 96.6% licensure rate and Emory University ranking among the nation’s top 25 psychology programs.
PsyD Programs in Georgia
Georgia currently hosts two APA-accredited PsyD programs, both focusing on clinical psychology with distinct emphases on serving underserved populations and integrating evidence-based practice.
Georgia Southern University – Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies
Established in response to critical mental health provider shortages in rural Georgia, Georgia Southern’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology program has emerged as a leader in training culturally competent psychologists. The program’s commitment to addressing healthcare disparities sets it apart from traditional doctoral programs.
| Program Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Public |
| Location | Statesboro, GA |
| Annual Tuition | $7,668 (in-state); $31,320 (out-of-state) |
| Program Length | 5 years full-time |
| Cohort Size | 8-10 students annually |
| Licensure Rate | 96.6% (2014-2024) |
| Internship Match Rate | 92% (3-year average) |
| Specialization Tracks | Rural mental health, integrated care, trauma-informed practice |
Mercer University – College of Health Professions
Mercer University’s PsyD program, located on the Atlanta campus, emphasizes the integration of science and practice in professional psychology. With full APA accreditation achieved in 2018, the program has rapidly established itself as a competitive option for students seeking urban clinical training opportunities.
| Program Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Private, not-for-profit |
| Location | Atlanta, GA |
| Annual Tuition | $39,741 |
| Program Length | 5 years full-time |
| Cohort Size | 12-15 students annually |
| Licensure Rate | 80% (2012-2022) |
| Practicum Requirements | 3 full years (36 months) |
| Internship Hours | 2,000 hours at APA-approved sites |
PhD Psychology Programs in Georgia
Georgia’s PhD programs offer research-intensive training combined with clinical preparation, ideal for students interested in academic careers, research positions, or specialized clinical practice.
University of Georgia – Franklin College of Arts and Sciences
As one of the oldest continuously APA-accredited programs in the Southeast (since 1966), UGA’s psychology department offers multiple doctoral pathways. The clinical psychology PhD program adheres to a scientist-practitioner model, whereas the counseling psychology program emphasizes developmental and preventive approaches to mental health.
| Program | Annual Tuition (In-State) | Annual Tuition (Out-of-State) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD Clinical Psychology | $8,878 | $25,186 | 5-6 years |
| PhD Counseling Psychology | $15,375 | $43,347 | 5-7 years |
| PhD I/O Psychology | $8,878 | $25,186 | 4-5 years |
| PhD Behavior & Brain Sciences | $8,878 | $25,186 | 5-6 years |
Emory University – College of Arts and Sciences
Ranked 22nd nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2025), Emory’s clinical psychology PhD program offers four specialized concentrations. Despite the premium tuition, all admitted students over the past decade have received full funding packages including tuition waivers and stipends.
Georgia State University – College of Arts and Sciences
Georgia State University offers several psychology doctoral programs through its renowned psychology department, including clinical psychology, neuropsychology and behavioral neuroscience, and community psychology tracks. Located in downtown Atlanta, GSU provides unparalleled access to diverse clinical populations and research opportunities.
| Program Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Annual Tuition (In-State) | $13,135 |
| Annual Tuition (Out-of-State) | $38,674 |
| Research Areas | Clinical, neuropsychology, community, developmental |
| Funding Available | Graduate assistantships with tuition waivers |
Comprehensive Program Comparison
| Institution | Degree Type | Focus | Total Cost (In-State) | Licensure Rate | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Southern | PsyD | Clinical Practice | ~$38,340 | 96.6% | Rural mental health focus |
| Mercer | PsyD | Clinical Practice | ~$198,705 | 80% | Atlanta clinical opportunities |
| UGA | PhD | Research & Practice | ~$44,390 | 86% | Multiple specializations |
| Emory | PhD | Research | Fully funded | 86% | National ranking & funding |
| Georgia State | PhD | Research & Practice | ~$65,675 | 75% | Urban setting & diversity |
Admission Requirements & Prerequisites
Georgia’s psychology doctoral programs maintain competitive admission standards, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 5% to 15%. Understanding these requirements helps you prepare a competitive application.
Common Prerequisites Across Programs
- Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution, preferably in psychology or a related field
- GPA Requirements: Minimum 3.0, competitive applicants typically have 3.5+
- GRE Scores: Many programs have made GRE optional post-2020, but strong scores can enhance applications
- Psychology Coursework: Statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology, developmental psychology
- Research Experience: Minimum 1-2 years, including thesis or independent research project
- Clinical Experience: 500+ hours of relevant volunteer or paid experience preferred
- Letters of Recommendation: 3 academic or professional references
Application Timeline
| Timeline | Action Items |
|---|---|
| May-August (Year Before) | Research programs, prepare for GRE (if required), and request transcripts |
| September-October | Request letters of recommendation, begin personal statements |
| November-December | Submit applications (most deadlines December 1-15) |
| January-February | Interview invitations and campus visits |
| March-April | Admission decisions and program selection |
How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Georgia
Becoming a practicing psychologist in Georgia requires completing specific educational, training, and examination requirements established by the Georgia State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. Understanding this pathway enables you to plan your professional journey more effectively.
Step 1: Complete Your Undergraduate Education
Begin with a bachelor’s degree, ideally in psychology or a related field such as neuroscience, sociology, or biology. Georgia’s doctoral programs look favorably upon applicants who have completed coursework in statistics, research methods, and core areas of psychology. Consider pursuing research opportunities and gaining relevant experience through internships or volunteer work at mental health facilities.
Step 2: Earn Your Doctoral Degree
Choose between a PsyD or PhD program based on your career goals. PsyD programs typically emphasize clinical practice and require 4-6 years to complete, while PhD programs focus more on research and may take 5-7 years. Both pathways can lead to licensure, but ensure your chosen program holds APA accreditation for the smoothest path to professional practice.
Step 3: Complete Supervised Professional Experience
Georgia requires a minimum of 1,500 hours of supervised postdoctoral professional experience. This must be completed under the supervision of a licensed psychologist and can be obtained through formal postdoctoral fellowships or supervised positions. Many graduates complete 2,000-4,000 hours of training to enhance their competitiveness and meet the requirements for board certification.
Step 4: Pass Required Examinations
The Georgia State Board requires passage of three examinations:
- Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP): A 225-question national exam covering eight core areas of psychology
- Georgia Jurisprudence Exam: Tests knowledge of state laws and regulations governing psychological practice
- Oral Examination: Conducted by board members to assess clinical competence and ethical decision-making
Step 5: Apply for Licensure
Submit your application to the Georgia State Board of Examiners of Psychologists with all required documentation, including official transcripts, verification of supervised experience, examination scores, and applicable fees. The current application fee is $400, with additional costs for examinations and background checks.
Step 6: Maintain Your License
Georgia psychologists are required to complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their licensure. At least 3 hours must focus on ethics, and the remaining hours should relate to your area of practice. License renewal occurs biennially with a fee of $300.
Cost Analysis & Financial Planning
Understanding the full financial investment required for doctoral psychology education helps you make informed decisions and plan effectively for your future.
Total Program Investment Comparison
| Program | Tuition (5 Years) | Fees & Books | Living Expenses | Total Investment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Southern (In-State) | $38,340 | $10,000 | $75,000 | $123,340 |
| Mercer University | $198,705 | $10,000 | $100,000 | $308,705 |
| UGA Clinical (In-State) | $44,390 | $10,000 | $75,000 | $129,390 |
| Emory (Funded) | $0 | $10,000 | $100,000 | $110,000 |
Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities
- Graduate Assistantships: Many PhD programs offer teaching or research assistantships with tuition waivers and stipends ($15,000-$25,000 annually)
- Federal Loans: Graduate students can borrow up to $20,500 annually in unsubsidized loans, plus Graduate PLUS loans
- Scholarships: Professional organizations like APA offer competitive scholarships ranging from $1,000-$25,000
- State Programs: Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship and Service-Cancelable Loans for healthcare professionals
- Employer Sponsorship: Some healthcare organizations offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing doctoral degrees
Georgia Psychologist Salary & Career Outlook
Understanding salary expectations and job growth projections helps you evaluate the return on your educational investment and plan your career trajectory.
Salary Data for Georgia Psychologists
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical and counseling psychologists in Georgia demonstrate strong earning potential across experience levels:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (25th) | $61,750 | $29.69 |
| Median (50th) | $85,800 | $41.25 |
| Experienced (75th) | $107,440 | $51.65 |
| Top Earners (90th) | $136,680 | $65.71 |
Metropolitan Area Salary Variations
| Metro Area | Mean Annual Salary | Employment Level |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell | $91,340 | 2,180 psychologists |
| Augusta-Richmond County | $82,650 | 210 psychologists |
| Columbus | $79,870 | 140 psychologists |
| Savannah | $77,920 | 180 psychologists |
Career Growth Projections
The employment outlook for psychologists in Georgia remains robust, with projected growth of 10.5% through 2032, significantly exceeding the 4% average for all occupations. This growth translates to approximately 340 new positions annually, driven by increasing mental health awareness, expanded insurance coverage, and growing demand in schools, hospitals, and private practice settings.
High-Demand Specializations in Georgia:
- Child and adolescent psychology (15% growth projected)
- Geropsychology (18% growth projected)
- Health psychology and behavioral medicine (12% growth)
- Neuropsychology (14% growth)
- Forensic psychology (11% growth)
For detailed salary information by specialization, visit our Georgia Clinical Psychologist Salary guide.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures shown here for Psychologists. Job growth projections are from the US Department of Labor-sponsored resource, CareerOneStop. Figures are based on state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
Choosing the Right Program: Decision Framework
Selecting the appropriate doctoral program requires careful consideration of multiple factors aligned with your professional goals, financial situation, and personal circumstances.
Key Decision Factors
| Factor | PsyD Programs | PhD Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Clinical practice and application | Research and theory development |
| Typical Duration | 4-5 years | 5-7 years |
| Dissertation | Applied clinical project | Original empirical research |
| Funding Availability | Limited assistantships | More funding opportunities |
| Career Paths | Private practice, hospitals, clinics | Academia, research, specialized clinical |
| Clinical Hours | 2,000-3,000 hours | 1,500-2,000 hours |
Program Selection Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist to evaluate each program:
- ☐ APA accreditation status and history
- ☐ Match rate for internships (aim for 90%+)
- ☐ Licensure exam pass rates (aim for 85%+)
- ☐ Average time to degree completion
- ☐ Total program cost and funding availability
- ☐ Faculty research interests alignment
- ☐ Clinical training site quality and diversity
- ☐ Student support services and resources
- ☐ Alumni career outcomes and placement
- ☐ Geographic location and cost of living
- ☐ Program culture and student satisfaction
- ☐ Specialization tracks available
Next Steps for Prospective Students
- Research Programs Thoroughly: Review program websites, attend virtual information sessions, and connect with current students and alumni
- Gain Relevant Experience: Pursue research opportunities, clinical volunteer work, or employment in mental health settings
- Prepare Academically: Complete prerequisite coursework and maintain a competitive GPA
- Network Professionally: Join psychology organizations like the Georgia Psychological Association or APA Division affiliates
- Visit Campuses: Schedule in-person or virtual visits to get a feel for program culture and resources
- Prepare Application Materials Early: Start personal statements and secure recommendations well before deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a PsyD and PhD in psychology?
The primary distinction lies in focus and training emphasis. PsyD programs concentrate on clinical practice, preparing graduates for direct patient care through extensive practicum and internship experiences. PhD programs emphasize research and theory, requiring original empirical dissertations and preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, or specialized clinical practice. While both can lead to licensure, PsyD programs typically require 4-5 years, whereas PhD programs require 5-7 years for PhD programs.
How competitive is admission to Georgia’s psychology doctoral programs?
Georgia’s psychology doctoral programs are highly competitive, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 5% to 15%. For example, Georgia Southern’s PsyD program accepts only 8-10 students annually from hundreds of applicants. Successful applicants generally have GPAs above 3.5, substantial research experience (1-2 years minimum), relevant clinical experience (500+ hours), and strong letters of recommendation. Programs are increasingly valuing diversity, life experience, and a commitment to serving underserved populations.
Can I work while completing a psychology doctorate in Georgia?
Full-time doctoral programs in psychology are intensive and typically require 40-60 hours of work per week, including classes, research, and clinical training. Most programs strongly discourage or prohibit outside employment, especially during the first two years. However, many programs offer graduate assistantships that provide $15,000-$25,000 annually, plus tuition waivers. Some students work limited hours in related fields during later program years, but this can extend the time to graduation.
What specializations are available in Georgia’s psychology programs?
Georgia’s programs offer diverse specialization opportunities. Georgia Southern emphasizes rural mental health and integrated care. UGA offers tracks in clinical psychology, counseling, industrial-organizational psychology, and behavioral neuroscience. Emory provides concentrations in neuroscience, clinical science, cognitive sciences, and developmental psychology. Georgia State offers specializations in neuropsychology and community psychology. These specializations typically involve focused coursework, specialized practicum placements, and dissertation research in the area of concentration.
How much can I expect to earn as a psychologist in Georgia?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical and counseling psychologists in Georgia earn a median annual salary of $85,800, with entry-level positions starting around $61,750 and experienced professionals earning over $136,680. Salaries vary by specialization, with neuropsychologists and industrial-organizational psychologists typically earning higher salaries. Metropolitan areas, such as Atlanta, offer higher salaries ($91,340 average) compared to rural areas. The earnings of private practice psychologists depend on their caseload and insurance reimbursement rates.
What financial aid options are available for psychology doctoral students?
Financial aid options vary significantly by program type. PhD programs often provide full funding through teaching or research assistantships, which cover tuition and offer stipends. PsyD programs typically offer limited assistantships, but students can access federal loans (up to $20,500 annually in unsubsidized loans plus Graduate PLUS loans). Additional funding sources include APA scholarships, state programs such as Georgia’s Service-Connect Loans, private scholarships from professional organizations, and employer tuition reimbursement programs.
How long does it take to become licensed after graduating?
After completing your doctoral degree, Georgia requires 1,500 hours of supervised postdoctoral experience, typically taking 1-2 years depending on whether you work full-time or part-time. You must then pass the EPPP national exam, Georgia jurisprudence exam, and oral examination. The entire process from graduation to licensure generally takes 12-24 months. Some graduates complete additional hours (2,000-4,000) to qualify for board certification or meet other state requirements for potential relocation.
Are online psychology doctorate programs available in Georgia?
Currently, Georgia’s APA-accredited doctoral programs require substantial in-person attendance for clinical training, though some didactic coursework may be offered in hybrid formats. While fully online PsyD programs exist nationally, they may present challenges for licensure in Georgia if they lack proper accreditation or the required clinical training components. Students interested in online options should verify APA accreditation status and ensure the program meets Georgia’s specific licensure requirements before enrolling.
