Missouri Psychology Doctorate Programs: Complete 2025 Guide
Missouri offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring psychologists, with multiple APA-accredited doctoral programs across the state. Whether you’re considering a practice-focused PsyD or research-oriented PhD, this comprehensive guide examines every accredited psychology doctorate program in Missouri, including admission requirements, costs, and career outcomes for 2025.
Understanding the distinction between PsyD and PhD programs remains crucial for prospective students. Missouri’s psychology programs offer both pathways, each with unique advantages for different career goals. This guide provides detailed program profiles, comparison tools, and insider insights to help you make an informed decision about your doctoral education.
Program Overview & Rankings
Missouri’s psychology education landscape includes 19 institutions offering graduate or doctorate-level programs. The state maintains a strong reputation for psychological education, with several nationally recognized programs providing diverse specialization opportunities.
National Recognition & Rankings
According to the Princeton Review’s 2025 rankings, five Missouri institutions earned recognition as the best colleges nationally:
- Missouri University of Science and Technology
- Saint Louis University
- Truman State University
- University of Missouri-Columbia
- Washington University in St. Louis
U.S. News & World Report specifically recognized four Missouri schools for graduate psychology excellence in 2022: Washington University in St. Louis (#36 nationally), the University of Missouri-Columbia (#67), the University of Missouri-St: Louis, and the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Quick Missouri Psychology Program Facts
| Metric | Data | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Total Psychology Doctorate Programs | 8 Programs | 1 PsyD, 7 PhD programs across five institutions |
| APA-Accredited Programs | 8 Programs | All doctoral programs maintain APA accreditation |
| Average Time to Completion | 5-7 years | PhD programs are typically longer than PsyD programs |
| Lowest Net Price Institution | $11,577 | University of Missouri-St. Louis |
| Licensure Pass Rate Average | 87% | Based on available program data |
PsyD Programs in Missouri
Missouri currently offers one PsyD program, representing an essential option for students seeking practice-focused doctoral training. Unlike traditional PhD programs, PsyD programs emphasize clinical practice over research.
Kansas City University – PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Kansas City University pioneered the region’s first PsyD program, serving students across Missouri and Kansas. Established in 2017, this program represents the newest addition to Missouri’s landscape of psychology doctoral programs.
Program Details:
- Institution Type: Private, not-for-profit
- Campus Location, Tuitions as City, Missouri
- Annual Tuition: $38,309 (2024-2025 academic year)
- Credit Hours: 114 credit hours
- Program Duration: 4-5 years including internship
- Accreditation Status: APA accredited on contingency (graduates considered fully APA-accredited)
- Clinical Training: 2,000+ supervised clinical hours
- Internship Requirement: 1-year full-time APA-accredited internship
Student Outcomes (2017-2024):
- Total Graduates: 10 students
- Licensure Rate: 80%
- Internship Match Rate: 85%
- Average Time to Degree: 5.2 years
The program’s contingency accreditation status means it awaits additional student outcome data for full accreditation. However, graduates receive full recognition as having completed an APA-accredited program, ensuring eligibility for licensure nationwide.
Learn more: Kansas City University PsyD Program
PhD Programs in Missouri
Missouri’s PhD programs in psychology offer research-intensive training combined with clinical preparation. These programs typically provide full funding through teaching or research assistantships, making them attractive options for students interested in fully funded doctoral programs.
University of Missouri System Programs
The University of Missouri system operates the state’s most extensive network of psychology doctoral programs with offerings across three campuses that provide distinct specializations and training opportunities.
University of Missouri-Columbia
Programs Offered:
- PhD in Clinical Psychology (APA accredited since 1951)
- PhD in Counseling Psychology (APA accredited)
- PhD in School Psychology (APA accredited)
Financial Support: All clinical psychology students receive complete tuition remission and annual stipends averaging $25,000. Counseling psychology provides similar support packages.
Admission Statistics (2023-2024):
- Clinical Psychology: 6% acceptance rate (12 admitted from 200+ applicants)
- Average GRE: 315 combined (Verbal + Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.75
Learn more: MU Clinical Psychology | MU Counseling Psychology | MU School Psychology
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Program: PhD in Clinical Psychology (Behavioral Neuroscience emphasis available)
Annual Tuition: Full tuition remission for all admitted students
Stipend: $20,000-$22,000 annually
Research Areas: Trauma psychology, neuropsychology, health psychology, child clinical psychology
Learn more: UMSL Clinical Psychology
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Programs Offered:
- PhD in Clinical Psychology
- PhD in Counseling Psychology
Tuition: $13,332 (in-state and out-of-state after assistantship)
Unique Features: Health psychology emphasis, community psychology track, integrated behavioral health training
Learn more: UMKC Clinical | UMKC Counseling
Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University’s PhD in Clinical Psychology is the longest continuously accredited program in Missouri, maintaining APA accreditation since 1948. This prestigious program consistently ranks among the nation’s top clinical psychology programs.
Program Highlights:
- Complete tuition remission plus $32,000 annual stipend
- Research-scientist practitioner model
- 5-6 year average completion time
- 100% internship match rate (2019-2023)
- 88% licensure rate among graduates
Student Outcomes (2013-2023):
- Total Graduates: 41
- Academic Placements: 45%
- Clinical Positions: 40%
- Research/Industry: 15%
Learn more: WashU Clinical Psychology
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University’s Jesuit Catholic institution offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology with multiple specialty tracks, first earning APA accreditation in 1964.
Specialization Tracks:
- Clinical Child Psychology
- Neuropsychology
- Health Psychology
- Trauma PsychCosty
- Sports Psychology
Financial Information:
- Annual Cost: $8,220 (after tuition remission)
- Assistantship Stipend: $18,000-$20,000
- Additional fees and expenses apply
Program Statistics (2013-2021):
- Total Graduates: 63
- Licensure Rate: 98.4% (62 of 63 graduates)
- Average Time to Degree: 6 years
Learn more: SLU Clinical Psychology
Comprehensive Program Comparison Table
| Institution | Degree Type | Specialization | Annual Cost | Funding Available | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City University | PsyD | Clinical | $38,309 | Limited | 15% |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | PhD | Clinical | $0 (funded) | Full + Stipend | 6% |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | PhD | Counseling | $15,700 (in-state) | Partial | 8% |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | PhD | School | $15,730 (in-state) | Partial | 10% |
| University of Missouri-St. Louis | PhD | Clinical | $0 (funded) | Full + Stipend | 7% |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | PhD | Clinical | $13,332 | Partial | 9% |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | PhD | Counseling | $13,332 | Partial | 11% |
| Washington University in St. Louis | PhD | Clinical | $0 (funded) | Full + $32,000 | 4% |
| Saint Louis University | PhD | Clinical | $8,220 | Partial + Stipend | 8% |
Admission Requirements
Missouri psychology doctorate programs maintain competitive admission standards. Understanding these requirements helps prospective students prepare competitive applications. For comprehensive guidance, explore our guide on how to gain admission to doctoral clinical psychology programs.
Typical Admission Prerequisites
| Requirement | PsyD Programs | PhD Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 3.0-3.3 | 3.5-3.8 |
| GRE Scores | Optional/300+ combined | 310-320+ combined |
| Psychology Coursework | 18 credit hours minimum | 24+ credit hours |
| Research Experience | Preferred | Required (2+ years) |
| Clinical Experience | Strongly preferred | Helpful but not required |
| Letters of Recommendation | 3 (academic/professional) | 3 (research-focused) |
Required Prerequisite Courses
Most Missouri programs require the following undergraduate psychology courses:
- General Psychology
- Statistics/Research Methods
- Abnormal Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive or Learning Psychology
- Biological/Physiological Psychology
- Social Psychology
- History and Systems of Psychology
Application Timeline
September-October: Research programs, prepare for GRE (if required)
November: Request transcripts and letters of recommendation
December 1-15: Most application deadlines
January-February: Interview invitations sent
February-March: On-campus or virtual interviews
April 1-15: Admission decisions and funding offers
How to Become a Psychologist in Missouri
Missouri maintains specific educational and experiential requirements for psychology licensure. The Missouri Committee of Psychologists oversees the licensure process, ensuring all practicing psychologists meet rigorous professional standards.
Step 1: Complete Your Bachelor’s Degree
While Missouri doesn’t mandate a specific undergraduate major for licensure, doctoral programs typically require a psychology major or related field (social work, neuroscience, biology). Successful applicants generally complete:
- Psychology major with 3.5+ GPA
- Research experience through lab work or honors thesis
- Volunteer or paid clinical experience
- Strong foundation in statistics and research methods
Step 2: Earn Your Doctoral Degree
Missouri requires a doctorate from an APA-accredited program for licensure eligibility. Both PsyD and PhD degrees qualify, though they offer different training emphases:
- PsyD Programs: Focus on clinical practice, typically 4-6 years including internship
- PhD Programs: Emphasize research and practice, usually 5-7 years including dissertation
During your doctoral program, you’ll complete:
- Coursework in psychological foundations and ethics
- Supervised practicum experiences (minimum 1,000 hours)
- Comprehensive examinations
- Doctoral dissertation (PhD) or doctoral project (PsyD)
- APA-accredited predoctoral internship (2,000 hours)
Step 3: Complete Supervised Professional Experience
Missouri’s postdoctoral requirements vary based on your degree level:
- Doctoral degree holders: One year (1,500 hours) of supervised postdoctoral experience
- Master’s degree holders: Three years of supervised professional experience (rarely pursued due to limited practice scope)
Supervision must include:
- Minimum 50 hours of face-to-face supervision annually
- Supervision by a licensed psychologist
- Documentation of clinical competencies
- Evaluation of professional development
Step 4: Pass Required Examinations
Missouri requires two examinations for licensure:
- Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP):
- National standardized exam administered by ASPPB
- Minimum passing score: 500 (scaled score)
- Covers eight content areas of psychology
- Computer-based testing available year-round
- Missouri Jurisprudence Examination:
- State-specific exam on Missouri psychology laws and ethics
- Based on Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 337
- Passing score: 75%
- Open-book format
Step 5: Apply for the Missouri Psychology License
Submit your application to the Missouri Committee of Psychologists, including:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- Verification of supervised experience
- EPPP score report
- Background check and fingerprinting
- Application fee: $400
- License fee: $200
Step 6: Maintain Your License
Missouri psychology licenses require renewal every two years:
- Complete 40 hours of continuing education
- Minimum 3 hours in ethics
- Suicide prevention training (starting 2023)
- Renewal fee: $350
- Maintain professional liability insurance
Reciprocity and Mobility
Missouri participates in the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), allowing:
- Telepsychology practice across participating states
- Temporary in-person practice (up to 30 days annually)
- Streamlined licensure mobility
Financial Aid & Funding Opportunities
Financing your Ph.D. in psychology requires careful planning. Missouri programs offer various funding options, from complete support packages to loans and scholarships. Understanding these options helps minimize debt while maximizing educational opportunities. Explore fully funded PsyD and PhD programs for additional funding strategies.
Funding by Program Type
| Funding Type | PhD Programs | PsyD Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Assistantships | Common (80-100% of students) | Limited (10-20% of students) |
| Average Stipend | $18,000-$32,000/year | $5,000-$10,000 when available |
| Tuition Coverage | Often full remission | Partial scholarships only |
| Work Requirement | 20 hours/week teaching or research | 10-15 hours when applicable |
| External Funding | Encouraged and supported | Student responsibility |
Missouri-Specific Funding Resources
- Missouri State Scholarship Programs: Access through the Missouri Department of Higher Education
- Health Professional Student Loan Program: For students committing to underserved area practice
- Minority Teaching Scholarship: For underrepresented students in education-related psychology
- Veterans Education Benefits: All Missouri programs participate in VA education programs
External Funding Opportunities
National organizations offering psychology graduate funding:
- American Psychological Foundation – Various dissertation and research grants
- National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship – $37,000 annual stipend
- Health Resources and Services Administration – Behavioral health workforce programs
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – Minority fellowship program
Missouri Psychology Doctorate Salary Outlook
Psychology careers in Missouri offer competitive compensation exceeding state averages. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical and counseling psychologists earn substantial salaries with strong growth projections. For detailed salary information by region, visit our Missouri Clinical Psychologist Salary Guide.
Missouri Psychologist Salary Data
| Position | Mean Annual Salary | Median Annual Salary | Top 10% Earn |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical & Counseling Psychologists | $87,730 | $82,510 | $133,200+ |
| School Psychologists | $84,940 | $79,820 | $128,410+ |
| All Other Psychologists | $105,190 | $98,020 | $152,740+ |
| Missouri Average (All Occupations) | $57,580 | $45,230 | $94,880+ |
Regional Salary Variations
Metropolitan areas in Missouri show significant salary variations:
- St. Louis Metro: $91,450 average (highest in state)
- Kansas City Metro: $89,200 average
- Springfield: $83,760 average
- Columbia: $81,920 average
- Rural Missouri: $76,500 average
Career Growth Projections
The Missouri Department of Economic Development projects:
- 11% growth in psychology positions through 2032
- 220 annual job openings statewide
- Highest demand in St. Louis and Kansas City metros
- Growing need for telepsychology services in rural areas
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence psychologists salaries in Missouri:
- Specialization: Neuropsychologists and forensic psychologists command the highest salaries
- Setting: Private practice typically yields 20-30% higher income than institutional settings
- Experience: 10+ years of experience increases salary by an average 40%
- Credentials: Board certification adds a 10-15% salary premium
- Location: Urban areas offer 15-20% higher wages than rural regions
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA is required for Missouri psychology doctoral programs?
PhD programs typically require a minimum GPA of 3.5, with competitive applicants averaging 3.7-3.8. PsyD programs generally accept students with GPAs ranging from 3.0 to 3.3, although higher GPAs can improve admission chances and funding opportunities. Some programs consider the last 60 credit hours if early undergraduate performance was weaker.
Are Missouri PsyD programs APA-accredited?
Yes, Kansas City University’s PsyD program holds APA accreditation on contingency status. This means graduates are considered to have completed an APA-accredited program for licensure purposes. All PhD programs in clinical, counseling, and school psychology at Missouri universities maintain full APA accreditation.
How long does it take to complete a psychology doctorate in Missouri?
PsyD programs typically require 4-5 years, including internship, with an average completion time of 5.2 years at Kansas City University. PhD programs generally take 5-7 years, with clinical psychology programs averaging 6 years and research-focused programs potentially extending to 8 years, often due to the complexity of dissertations.
What’s the average Cost of a PsyD in Missouri?
Kansas City University’s PsyD program costs $38,309 annually, totaling approximately $153,000 to $191,000 for the complete program. However, PhD programs often provide full funding, making them financially advantageous despite longer completion times. Consider exploring online PsyD programs for potentially lower costs.
Can I practice in other states with a Missouri psychology license?
Yes, Missouri participates in PSYPACT, allowing telepsychology practice across 40+ participating states and temporary in-person practice. Traditional reciprocity agreements exist with some states, though most require additional applications. Board certification through ABPP can expedite licensure in other states.
What’s the difference between Missouri’s PsyD and PhD programs?
PsyD programs emphasize clinical practice with minimal research requirements, making them ideal for those seeking practitioner careers. PhD programs strike a balance between research and clinical training, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, or practice. PhD programs typically offer better funding but require dissertation research and longer completion times.
Do I need research experience for Missouri psychology programs?
PhD programs typically require substantial research experience (2+ years preferred), including a record of publications or presentations. PsyD programs value research experience but prioritize clinical expertise and interpersonal skills. Strong research backgrounds strengthen applications for both program types and improve funding opportunities.
What clinical training opportunities exist in Missouri?
Missouri offers diverse clinical training through university counseling centers, VA medical centers in St. Louis and Kansas City, state psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, and children’s hospitals. Programs maintain partnerships with 5over50 Practicum sites statewide, ensuring varied training experiences across diverse populations and settings.
How competitive are Missouri psychology doctorate programs?
Acceptance rates range from 4% (Washington University) to 15% (Kansas City University PsyD). The average acceptance rate across all programs is approximately 8-9%. Successful applicants typically exceed the minimum requirements significantly, with many holding master’s degrees, publishing their work, and possessing extensive research or clinical experience.
What financial aid options exist for out-of-state students?
Many Missouri PhD programs offer the same funding packages to Tuitionstate students, including tuition waivers that eliminate residency cost differences. Graduate assistantships often provide students with in-state Tuition after one year of service. Some programs offer specific out-of-state scholarships or fellowship opportunities for exceptional candidates.
