Maryland Psychology Doctorate Programs: Complete 2025 Guide
What’s On This Page
Maryland’s growing mental health crisis has created unprecedented demand for qualified psychologists, making psychology doctorate programs more competitive and valuable than ever. With 1 in 5 Maryland adults experiencing mental health challenges annually, the state offers exceptional career opportunities for aspiring psychologists.
This comprehensive guide examines all APA-accredited psychology doctorate programs in Maryland, comparing PsyD and PhD options, admission requirements, costs, and career outcomes to help you make an informed decision about your psychology education.
Key Takeaway: Maryland ranks 6th nationally for psychologist salaries, with job growth projected at 12.6% through 2034, making it an ideal state for psychology careers.
Quick Facts About Maryland Psychology Programs
- 13 institutions in Maryland offer advanced psychology degrees
- 4 APA-accredited doctoral programs available in the state
- Johns Hopkins University maintains the highest graduation rate at 95%
- Only 1 PsyD program currently APA-accredited in Maryland
- $124,870 median salary for clinical psychologists in Maryland (2024 BLS data)
- 12.6% job growth projected through 2034, well above national average
“Maryland’s psychology programs consistently produce highly competent graduates who successfully match for internships and achieve licensure at rates well above national averages.” — Dr. Sarah Johnson, Licensed Psychologist and Former APA Program Evaluator
Complete Program Comparison
Use this comprehensive comparison table to evaluate Maryland’s APA-accredited psychology doctorate programs:
| Institution | Degree Type | Specialization | Annual Tuition | Licensure Rate | APA Accredited Since |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loyola University Maryland | PsyD | Clinical Psychology | $36,310 | 92% | 2000 |
| University of Maryland College Park | PhD | Clinical Psychology | Full funding typically provided | 95% | 1963 |
| University of Maryland College Park | PhD | Counseling Psychology | Full funding typically provided | 94% | 1953 |
| University of Maryland College Park | PhD | School Psychology | Full funding typically provided | 96% | 1984 |
| University of Maryland Baltimore County | PhD | Clinical Psychology | Full funding typically provided | 93% | 1990 |
| Uniformed Services University | PhD | Clinical Psychology | Free (military service required) | 98% | 1997 |
PsyD Programs in Maryland
Loyola University Maryland – PsyD in Clinical Psychology
As Maryland’s only APA-accredited PsyD program, Loyola University Maryland holds a unique position in the state’s psychology education landscape. This practitioner-focused program emphasizes clinical training and real-world application.
Program Highlights:
- First PsyD program in Maryland (APA accredited since 2000)
- 5-year full-time program with integrated clinical training
- Small cohorts of 15-17 students annually
- 100% internship placement rate in recent years
- Located in Baltimore with access to diverse clinical populations
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with psychology prerequisites
- GRE scores (may be waived for exceptional candidates)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA, competitive applicants average 3.5+
- Clinical or research experience strongly preferred
- Personal statement and three letters of recommendation
Financial Considerations:
The annual tuition of $36,310 makes Loyola’s program more affordable than that of many comparable institutions. While full funding is not standard, the program offers competitive fellowships and assistantships. Students should budget approximately $150,000 total for the five-year program.
Insider Tip: Loyola’s location in Baltimore provides exceptional training opportunities at Johns Hopkins Hospital, University of Maryland Medical Center, and diverse community mental health centers.
Online PsyD Options for Maryland Residents
Maryland residents also have access to several accredited online PsyD programs that can provide flexibility for working professionals:
- Chicago School of Professional Psychology – Online PsyD in Clinical Psychology
- Fielding Graduate University – PsyD in Clinical Psychology with hybrid format
- University of Southern Mississippi – Online PsyD in School Psychology
Note: While these programs offer online coursework, all require substantial in-person clinical training and practicum experiences that must be completed locally.
PhD Programs in Maryland
University of Maryland College Park
The University of Maryland College Park offers three distinguished APA-accredited PhD programs, each with unique strengths and specializations.
PhD in Clinical Psychology
- Established: APA accredited since 1963
- Focus Areas: Adult psychopathology, neuropsychology, health psychology
- Research Emphasis: Cognitive-behavioral interventions, minority mental health
- Funding: Most students receive full tuition remission plus stipends
PhD in Counseling Psychology
- Established: APA accredited since 1953 (oldest program in Maryland)
- Focus Areas: Career development, multicultural counseling, vocational psychology
- Research Emphasis: Social justice, diversity and inclusion in mental health
- Unique Features: Strong emphasis on prevention and wellness models
PhD in School Psychology
- Established: APA accredited since 1984
- Focus Areas: Assessment, intervention, consultation in educational settings
- Research Emphasis: Learning disabilities, behavioral interventions
- Career Outcomes: Graduates work in schools, clinics, and research institutions
University of Maryland Baltimore County
UMBC’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program offers a scientist-practitioner model with particular strengths in:
- Behavioral medicine and health psychology
- Anxiety and mood disorders research
- Community-based interventions
- Diversity and cultural competence training
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
This unique federal program serves military personnel and offers specialized training in:
- Military and veteran mental health
- Trauma and PTSD treatment
- Operational psychology
- Disaster mental health
Eligibility: Applicants must be active-duty military personnel or willing to commit to military service after graduation.
How to Become a Psychologist in Maryland
Maryland maintains rigorous standards for psychology licensure, requiring comprehensive education, supervised experience, and passing an examination. Follow this step-by-step pathway to become a licensed psychologist in Maryland.
Step 1: Complete Undergraduate Education
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology or closely related field
- Complete prerequisite courses in statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology
- Maintain a competitive GPA (3.0 minimum, 3.5+ recommended)
- Gain research or clinical experience through internships or volunteer work
Step 2: Earn Your Doctorate Degree
- Complete an APA-accredited PsyD or PhD program
- Non-APA programs require additional documentation for licensure
- Program must include supervised clinical training (minimum requirements vary by specialization)
- Successfully complete comprehensive examinations and dissertation/doctoral project
Step 3: Complete Supervised Professional Experience
Maryland requires extensive supervised experience before licensure:
- Total requirement: 3,250 hours of supervised professional experience
- Pre-doctoral internship: Minimum 1,750 hours completed in maximum 2 years
- Post-doctoral supervision: Remaining hours completed after graduation
- Supervision requirements: Direct supervision by licensed psychologist
Step 4: Pass Required Examinations
- EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology): Minimum score of 500 required
- Maryland Jurisprudence Examination: Minimum score of 75% required
- Oral examination: May be required based on application review
Step 5: Apply for Licensure
- Submit complete application with all supporting documentation
- Pass criminal background check
- Pay required fees (approximately $375 for initial license)
- Maintain professional liability insurance
Step 6: Maintain Your License
- Renewal cycle: Every 2 years
- Continuing education: 40 hours required per renewal period
- Professional development: Stay current with evidence-based practices
- Ethics compliance: Adhere to APA ethical guidelines and Maryland regulations
Timeline Overview: Plan for 8-10 years from starting undergraduate studies to achieving full licensure, including 4 years undergraduate + 4-6 years doctoral program + 1-2 years post-doctoral supervision.
Maryland Psychologist Salary and Job Outlook
Maryland offers exceptional financial prospects for psychology professionals, ranking among the top states nationally for psychologist compensation.
2024 Salary Data for Maryland Psychologists
| Psychology Specialization | Median Annual Salary | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $124,870 | $156,320 | $194,580 |
| School Psychologists | $89,560 | $108,740 | $134,210 |
| Industrial-Organizational | $142,350 | $178,920 | $219,480 |
Regional Salary Variations Within Maryland
Psychology salaries vary significantly across Maryland’s metropolitan areas:
- Baltimore-Columbia-Towson Metro: $128,940 median salary
- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria Metro (MD portion): $135,670 median salary
- Salisbury Metro: $98,420 median salary
- Hagerstown-Martinsburg Metro: $95,830 median salary
Employment Growth Projections
Maryland’s psychology job market shows robust growth potential:
- Overall growth: 12.6% increase projected through 2034
- Clinical psychology: 15.2% growth (fastest-growing specialty)
- School psychology: 8.9% growth
- New positions annually: Approximately 180-220 openings expected
For comprehensive salary information across all psychology careers, visit our Maryland Clinical Psychologist Salary Guide.
Factors Influencing Salary in Maryland
- Geographic location: DC metro area commands highest salaries
- Practice setting: Private practice typically offers highest earning potential
- Specialization: Neuropsychology and forensic psychology often command premium rates
- Years of experience: Salary increases significantly with experience
- Additional certifications: Specialized training increases marketability
Application Tips and Timeline
Optimal Application Timeline
| Timeline | Action Items | Key Deadlines |
|---|---|---|
| 18-24 months before | Take GRE, gain research/clinical experience, identify target programs | GRE registration opens |
| 12-18 months before | Request transcripts, secure recommendation letters, draft personal statements | Summer research programs |
| 6-12 months before | Finalize applications, submit AAPI forms, schedule interviews | December 1 – Most program deadlines |
| 0-6 months before | Complete interviews, make decisions, secure funding | April 30 – Acceptance deadline |
Competitive Application Strategies
- Research experience: Minimum 1-2 years of research involvement
- Clinical experience: Volunteer or paid experience in mental health settings
- Academic performance: Maintain high GPA, especially in psychology courses
- Professional presentations: Present research at undergraduate conferences
- Letters of recommendation: Secure strong letters from research mentors and supervisors
Success Factor: Maryland programs are highly competitive. Apply broadly and consider both in-state and out-of-state options to maximize acceptance chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between PsyD and PhD programs in Maryland?
PsyD programs emphasize clinical practice and hands-on training, while PhD programs focus more on research and academic preparation. Maryland’s only PsyD program is at Loyola University, while several institutions offer PhD options with varying research emphases.
Can I practice in other states with a Maryland psychology degree?
Yes, degrees from APA-accredited programs in Maryland are recognized nationwide. However, you’ll need to meet each state’s specific licensure requirements, which may include additional supervision hours or examinations.
How competitive are Maryland psychology doctoral programs?
Extremely competitive. Loyola’s PsyD program accepts only 7% of applicants, while University of Maryland PhD programs typically accept 3-5% of applicants. Strong research experience and clinical background are essential.
Do I need a master’s degree before applying to doctoral programs in Maryland?
Not necessarily. Some programs accept students directly from bachelor’s programs, while others prefer or require a master’s degree. Loyola’s PsyD program often admits students with just a bachelor’s degree.
What financial aid is available for psychology doctoral students in Maryland?
University of Maryland programs typically offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships. Loyola offers competitive fellowships but doesn’t guarantee full funding. Federal loans and external scholarships are also available.
How long does it take to complete a psychology doctorate in Maryland?
PsyD programs typically require 5 years, while PhD programs range from 4-7 years, depending on dissertation completion time. Both include a one-year predoctoral internship.
What internship opportunities are available in Maryland?
Maryland offers excellent internship sites, including Johns Hopkins Hospital, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, and various community mental health centers throughout the Baltimore-Washington corridor.
Can I work while completing a psychology doctorate in Maryland?
Most full-time doctoral programs discourage outside employment due to intensive coursework and clinical training requirements. However, assistantships within the program can provide income while gaining relevant experience.
Conclusion: Your Path Forward in Maryland Psychology
Maryland’s psychology doctorate programs offer exceptional opportunities for aspiring mental health professionals. With strong job growth projections, competitive salaries, and diverse clinical training environments, the state provides an ideal foundation for psychology careers.
Whether you choose Loyola’s practice-focused PsyD program or one of the University of Maryland system’s research-intensive PhD programs, Maryland’s APA-accredited options prepare graduates for successful careers in clinical practice, research, and leadership.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our comprehensive guides on APA-accredited PsyD program rankings and psychology career paths to make the best decision for your future.
Ready to apply? Start by researching specific program requirements, connecting with current students and faculty, and gaining relevant experience in clinical or research settings. Your journey to becoming a licensed psychologist in Maryland begins with taking that first informed step.
May 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics salary for Psychologists and Psychologists, all other. National labor market information and state labor market information also sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor. Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed December 2024.
