Oklahoma Psychology Doctorate Programs
Pursuing a doctorate in psychology represents a significant investment in your professional future. Oklahoma offers several pathways to becoming a licensed psychologist, with programs ranging from research-intensive PhD degrees to practice-focused PsyD programs. This comprehensive guide examines all doctoral psychology programs available in Oklahoma, providing prospective students with the critical information needed to make an informed decision about their graduate education.
What’s On This Page?
Whether you’re drawn to clinical practice, academic research, or specialized areas such as school or counseling psychology, understanding the landscape of Oklahoma’s psychology doctoral programs is essential. We’ll explore accredited programs, admission requirements, funding opportunities, and the specific steps required to achieve licensure as a psychologist in the Sooner State.
Quick Facts & Overview
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Doctoral Programs | 8 programs across four universities |
| APA-Accredited Programs | 4 fully accredited, one contingent accreditation |
| Average Time to Completion | PhD: 5-7 years | PsyD: 4-5 years |
| Supervised Experience Required | 2,000 hours minimum (75 direct patient contact) |
| Licensing Exam | EPPP with a minimum score of 500 |
| Average Clinical Psychologist Salary | $96,100 (median) | $141,910+ (top 10%) |
| Job Growth Projection (2022-2032) | 14.6% increase in Oklahoma |
PsyD Programs in Oklahoma
The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree emphasizes clinical practice and applied psychological services. Oklahoma currently offers one PsyD program; however, prospective students should also consider accredited online PsyD programs that accept residents of Oklahoma.
Oklahoma City University – PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Oklahoma City University’s PsyD program represents the state’s primary option for students seeking practice-focused doctoral training. This four-year program received contingent accreditation from the American Psychological Association, positioning it as a developing program with strong potential for full accreditation once sufficient student outcome data becomes available.
| Program Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Private, Not-for-profit |
| Location | Oklahoma City, OK |
| Tuition | $750 per credit hour |
| Total Credits | 120 credit hours |
| Duration | 4 years full-time |
| Accreditation Status | APA Contingent Accreditation |
| Clinical Training Focus | Rural and underserved populations |
| Application Deadline | January 15 (Fall admission) |
Program Highlights:
- Emphasis on evidence-based practice and cultural competency
- Specialized training in rural mental health service delivery
- Integrated clinical experiences beginning in year one
- Small cohort sizes ensure personalized mentorship
- Partnership with local community mental health centers
Students interested in additional PsyD options should explore nationally ranked APA-accredited PsyD programs that offer distance learning or hybrid formats.
PhD Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s universities offer several PhD programs in psychology, each with distinct research emphases and career preparation tracks. These programs typically combine rigorous research training with clinical or applied experience.
Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University offers three APA-accredited doctoral programs, establishing itself as the state’s most comprehensive institution for psychology graduate training.
PhD in Clinical Psychology
| Program Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Focus | Pediatric psychology, health psychology, trauma |
| Duration | 5-6 years, including internship |
| Funding | Full assistantships are typically provided |
| Internship Match Rate | 95% (5-year average) |
| Licensure Pass Rate | 92% first-time EPPP pass rate |
PhD in Counseling Psychology
The counseling psychology program emphasizes multicultural competence, prevention, and wellness-oriented interventions. Students receive training in both individual and group therapy modalities, with opportunities for specialization in college counseling, community mental health, or private practice settings.
PhD in School Psychology
This program prepares professionals to work within educational systems, addressing the learning, behavioral, and mental health needs of children and adolescents. The curriculum includes both specialist-level and doctoral-level training components.
Annual Tuition:
- Clinical & Counseling Programs: Typically covered through assistantships
- School Psychology: $7,715 (in-state) | $29,032 (out-of-state)
University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma offers PhD programs in experimental psychology with specializations in cognitive, social, industrial-organizational, and quantitative psychology. While not clinically focused, these programs prepare graduates for careers in academia, research, and industry.
| Specialization | Career Path | Research Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Psychology | Academic research, UX research | Memory, attention, decision-making |
| Social Psychology | Academia, policy research | Prejudice, group dynamics, attitudes |
| Industrial-Organizational | Corporate consulting, HR | Leadership, team dynamics, selection |
| Quantitative Psychology | Statistical consulting, research | Psychometrics, modeling, methodology Tuition |
Al Tuition: $3,823 (in-state) | $10,803 (out-of-state)
University of Tulsa
The University of Tulsa offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology with an APA-accredited program known for its scientist-practitioner model. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and maintains strong partnerships with local healthcare systems.
Program Features:
- Small cohort sizes (5-7 students per year)
- Focus on child and adolescent psychology
- Integrated behavioral health training
- Research opportunities in anxiety, depression, and trauma
Program Comparison Guide
Choosing between psychology doctorate programs requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Understanding the key differences between PsyD and PhD programs is essential for aligning your education with career goals.
| Factor | PsyD Programs | PhD Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Clinical practice | Research and academia |
| Dissertation | Clinical project | Original research |
| Time to Degree | 4-5 years | 5-7 years |
| Funding Availability | Limited assistantships | Full funding common |
| Clinical Hours | 2,000-3,000 hours | 1,500-2,000 hours |
| Research Requirement | Applied research project | Multiple publications expected |
| Career Outcomes | 80% clinical practice | 50% academia/research |
Admission Requirements
Doctoral psychology programs in Oklahoma maintain competitive admission standards, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 5% to 15%. Understanding these requirements helps prospective students prepare competitive applications.
Minimum Academic Requirements
| Component | Typical Requirement | Competitive Range |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate GPA | 3.0 minimum | 3.5-4.0 |
| Psychology GPA | 3.3 minimum | 3.7-4.0 |
| GRE General (if required) | 50th percentile | 70th+ percentile |
| GRE Psychology Subject | Not always required | 600+ if required |
| Research Experience | 1 year minimum | 2+ years with presentations |
| Clinical Experience | Recommended | 500+ volunteer hours |
Prerequisite Coursework
Most programs require completion of the following undergraduate courses:
- Core Psychology: General Psychology, Research Methods, Statistics
- Content Areas: Abnormal Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology
- Laboratory Courses: Experimental Psychology or equivalent research experience
- Biological Bases: Biological Psychology, Neuroscience, or Physiological Psychology
- Mathematics: College-level statistics (some programs require calculus)
Application Components
Complete applications typically include:
- Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Letters of Recommendation: 3-4 letters, preferably from psychology faculty
- Personal Statement: 2-3 pages addressing research interests and career goals
- CV/Resume: Highlighting research, clinical, and leadership experiences
- Writing Sample: Research paper or thesis (PhD programs)
- Interview: On-campus or virtual interviews for finalists
Financial Aid & Funding
The financial investment in doctoral psychology education varies significantly between programs. Exploring fully funded postgraduate programs can substantially reduce educational debt.
Funding Options by Program Type
| Funding Source | Availability | Typical Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Assistantships | Common in PhD programs | $15,000-25,000/year + tuition waiver |
| Research Assistantships | PhD programs primarily | $18,000-28,000/year |
| Teaching Assistantships | Upper-level students | $12,000-20,000/year |
| Fellowships | Competitive | $20,000-35,000/year |
| Clinical Practica | Years 3-5 | $5,000-15,000/year |
| Federal Loans | All eligible students | Up to the cost of attendance |
Cost Comparison
Estimated Total Program Costs:
- Oklahoma City University PsyD: $90,000 (120 credits × $750)
- OSU PhD (with funding): $0 tuition + stipend
- OU PhD (in-state): $19,115 (5 years) – often offset by assistantships
- University of Tulsa PhD: Varies; partial to full funding available
External Funding Opportunities
Oklahoma students should explore these funding sources:
- Oklahoma Psychological Association Scholarships: Annual awards for graduate students
- Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA): Loan repayment for rural practice commitment
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Research training grants
- American Psychological Foundation: Various dissertation and research grants
- Indian Health Service: Loan repayment programs for qualifying students
How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Oklahoma
The path to licensure as a psychologist in Oklahoma involves multiple steps regulated by the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. Understanding these requirements early helps students plan their educational journey effectively.
Educational Requirements
Oklahoma requires a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution. Both PsyD and PhD degrees qualify, though PhD holders may need to demonstrate additional clinical training hours. The degree program must include:
- Minimum 60 graduate semester hours
- Coursework in biological bases, cognitive-affective bases, social bases, and individual differences
- Training in research methods, statistics, and psychometrics
- Professional ethics and standards coursework
- Supervised practicum experiences
Supervised Experience Requirements
Oklahoma mandates extensive supervised professional experience before licensure:
| Experience Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Total Hours Required | 2,000 hours minimum |
| Direct Patient Contact | 75 hours minimum face-to-face |
| Supervision Requirements | At least three licensed psychologists |
| Time Frame | Minimum 2 years, spanning multiple calendar years |
| Supervision Frequency | Weekly individual supervision required |
| Setting Requirements | Organized health service setting |
Examination Requirements
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) serves as the national licensing examination:
- Format: Computer-based, 225 multiple-choice questions
- Passing Score: 500 or higher (scaled score)
- Content Areas: Biological bases, cognitive-affective bases, social/cultural bases, growth/lifespan development, assessment/diagnosis, treatment/intervention, research methods, ethical/legal/professional issues
- Preparation: Most candidates study 3-6 months using commercial prep materials
- EPPP Part 2: Skills-based assessment focusing on practical competencies
Application Process
The licensure application process involves:
- Application Submission: Complete forms with $400 fee and two passport photos
- Documentation: Official transcripts, supervised experience verification forms
- Reference Letters: Three professional references from licensed psychologists
- Background Check: Criminal history and professional discipline review
- Board Review: Application reviewed at quarterly board meetings
- License Issuance: Upon approval, the license is valid for two years, with renewal requirements
Continuing Education Requirements
Licensed psychologists in Oklahoma must complete:
- 20 hours of continuing education biennially
- 3 hours in ethics or professional conduct
- Suicide prevention training (one-time requirement)
Career Outlook & Salaries
The career prospects for doctoral-level psychologists in Oklahoma remain strong, with growing demand across multiple sectors. Understanding salary expectations and growth projections helps inform educational investments. For detailed state comparisons, refer to our Clinical Psychologist Salary Guide by State.
Oklahoma Psychologist Salary Data
| Career Stage | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (10th percentile) | $52,880 | $25.42 |
| Early Career (25th percentile) | $68,950 | $33.15 |
| Median | $96,100 | $46.20 |
| Experienced (75th percentile) | $120,750 | $58.05 |
| Top Earners (90th percentile) | $141,910+ | $68.23+ |
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.
Employment Settings and Specializations
Oklahoma psychologists work across diverse settings:
| Setting | Percentage of Psychologists | Typical Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Private Practice | 35% | $85,000-150,000+ |
| Hospitals/Medical Centers | 20% | $90,000-130,000 |
| Community Mental Health | 15% | $70,000-95,000 |
| Schools/Educational | 12% | $75,000-100,000 |
| Government/VA | 10% | $85,000-120,000 |
| Academic/Research | 8% | $65,000-110,000 |
Job Growth Projections
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 14.6% increase in psychology positions in Oklahoma from 2022 to 2032, exceeding the national average. Key growth drivers include:
- Aging population requiring geropsychology services
- Increased mental health awareness and treatment-seeking
- Integration of behavioral health in primary care settings
- Expansion of telehealth services to rural communities
- Growing recognition of trauma-informed care needs
Choosing the Right Program
Selecting a doctoral program in psychology requires careful evaluation of personal goals, financial resources, and career aspirations. Consider these critical factors:
Program Evaluation Criteria
| Factor | Questions to Consider |
|---|---|
| Accreditation Status | Is the program APA-accredited? What is the accreditation timeline? |
| Faculty Expertise | Do faculty research interests align with yours? What is the faculty-to-student ratio? |
| Clinical Training | What practicum sites are available? What is the internship match rate? |
| Research Opportunities | Are there funded research projects? Can students publish and present? |
| Financial Support | What funding is guaranteed? What is the average student debt at graduation? |
| Student Outcomes | What is the licensure pass rate? Where do graduates work? |
| Program Culture | Is the environment collaborative or competitive? How diverse is the program? |
Alternative Pathways
Students unable to relocate or seeking flexible options should explore:
- Hybrid PsyD programs combining online and in-person training
- Programs in neighboring states (Texas, Kansas, Arkansas, New Mexico)
- Master’s degree options as stepping stones to doctoral programs
- Post-doctoral respecialization programs for career changers
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a PsyD and a PhD in psychology?
The PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) emphasizes clinical practice and typically requires 4-5 years to complete, with training focused on evidence-based interventions and direct patient care. The PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) emphasizes research and academia, typically requiring 5-7 years of extensive research training, including publications and a research-based dissertation. Both degrees qualify graduates for licensure as psychologists in the state of Oklahoma.
Can I become a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma with an online degree?
Yes, provided the online program is from a regionally accredited institution and meets Oklahoma’s educational requirements. The program must include supervised clinical training, which typically requires in-person components. Many hybrid programs combine online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. The Oklahoma State Board of Examiners evaluates each applicant’s education on an individual basis.
How competitive is admission to psychology doctoral programs in Oklahoma?
Admission to Oklahoma’s doctoral psychology programs is highly competitive, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 5% to 15%. Oklahoma State University’s clinical psychology program, for example, receives approximately 150 applications for six to eight positions annually. Successful applicants typically have GPAs above 3.5, research experience, and relevant clinical or volunteer experience.
What financial aid options are available for psychology doctoral students?
PhD programs often provide full funding through assistantships, tuition, and stipends of $15,000-$ 25,000 annually. PsyD programs typically offer limited assistantships, with students relying more on federal loans. External funding sources include dissertation grants, diversity fellowships, and loan forgiveness programs for those committed to practicing in underserved areas.
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma?
The complete timeline from bachelor’s degree to licensure typically spans 8-10 years: 4 years for undergraduate education, 4-7 years for doctoral training (including internship), and 1-2 years of postdoctoral supervised experience. Students who enter with a master’s degree or complete accelerated programs may be able to reduce this timeline by 1-2 years.
What are the job prospects for psychologists in Oklahoma?
Job prospects remain strong with 14.6% projected growth through 2032. Oklahoma faces a shortage of mental health providers, particularly in rural areas, creating opportunities for new psychologists. The median salary of $96,100 exceeds many other master ‘s-level mental health professions, with top earners exceeding $141,910 annually.
Do I need to attend an APA-accredited program?
While not legally required for licensure in Oklahoma, APA accreditation is strongly recommended. Accredited programs ensure standardized training quality, improve internship match rates, facilitate licensure reciprocity with other states, and enhance employment opportunities. Many employers and internship sites require or prefer graduates from APA-accredited programs.
