Utah Psychology Doctorate Programs
What’s On This Page
Earning your doctorate in psychology opens doors to rewarding careers as a clinician, researcher, or academic. Utah offers several excellent PhD programs in psychology, each with unique strengths and specializations. While there are currently no PsyD programs in Utah, prospective students have access to high-quality PhD programs and online PsyD options from accredited institutions nationwide.
This comprehensive guide details Utah’s psychology doctorate programs, licensing requirements, and career prospects to help you make an informed educational decision.
Quick Facts About Utah Psychology Programs
| Program Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Psychology Graduate Programs | 5 universities offer master’s degree or higher |
| APA-Accredited PhD Programs | 3 universities with 6 total programs |
| PsyD Programs Available | None currently in Utah |
| Highest Graduation Rate | Brigham Young University (82%) |
| Licensing Authority | Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) |
| Average Psychologist Salary | $110,630 annually |
| Job Growth Projection | 50% growth through 2032 |
Why Choose Utah for Psychology Education
Utah presents unique advantages for psychology doctorate students, combining academic excellence with exceptional career prospects. The state leads the nation in job growth for clinical and counseling psychologists, with a projected 50% increase through 2032.
Key benefits include:
- High Demand: Utah has the highest mental illness prevalence rate in the country (over 25% of adults), creating substantial need for qualified psychologists
- Strong Utilization: 19.5% of Utah adults used mental health services in the past year, compared to the national average of 14.9%
- Competitive Salaries: Utah ranks among the top 10 states for psychologist compensation
- Research Opportunities: Universities offer robust research programs in diverse psychology specializations
- Quality of Life: Utah consistently ranks among the best states for work-life balance and outdoor recreation
PhD Programs in Utah
Utah currently offers no PsyD programs, but provides excellent PhD options across three major universities. These programs follow the scientist-practitioner or clinical scientist models, emphasizing both research competency and clinical skills.
Program Comparison Overview
| University | Programs Offered | APA Accredited | Annual Tuition (In-State) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Utah | Clinical, Counseling, School Psychology | Yes (all programs) | $10,776 – $16,383 | 5 years |
| Utah State University | Clinical-Counseling, School Psychology | Yes (Clinical-Counseling), Contingency (School) | $6,982 | 4-5 years |
| Brigham Young University | Clinical, Counseling Psychology | Yes (both programs) | $10,120 (LDS), $20,420 (non-LDS) | 4-5 years |
University of Utah
The University of Utah offers the most comprehensive psychology doctorate options in the state, with three fully APA-accredited programs. The Clinical Psychology PhD emphasizes both empirical research and evidence-based clinical practice, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in academia, research, and clinical settings.
Specialization Tracks Available:
- Clinical Child and Family Psychology
- Clinical Health/Behavioral Medicine
- Clinical Neuropsychology
- Adult Psychopathology
Program Highlights:
- Five-year program with integrated research and clinical training
- Strong emphasis on scientific methodology and empirical research
- Extensive clinical training opportunities
- Faculty expertise in cutting-edge psychological research
Utah State University
Utah State University offers a unique combined Clinical-Counseling Psychology PhD program, providing comprehensive training across multiple therapeutic approaches and diverse populations. This innovative program prepares students for versatile careers serving diverse client needs.
Program Features:
- Combined approach integrating clinical and counseling psychology
- Evidence-based training with cultural competency emphasis
- Faculty expertise in neuropsychology, trauma, anxiety disorders, and military psychology
- Newly APA-accredited School Psychology program (contingency status)
Brigham Young University
BYU’s psychology doctorate programs maintain the highest graduation rate in Utah at 82%. The Clinical Psychology program follows a rigorous scientist-practitioner model with exceptional internship placement rates at prestigious medical centers nationwide.
Notable Internship Placements:
- Baylor University Medical School
- DuPont Hospital for Children
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
- Other top-tier medical facilities
PsyD Alternatives for Utah Residents
Since Utah currently offers no PsyD programs, prospective students interested in practitioner-focused training have several excellent alternatives:
Online PsyD Programs
Numerous accredited online PsyD programs provide flexibility for Utah residents. These programs typically require some on-campus residencies but allow students to complete most coursework remotely while gaining clinical experience in their local communities.
Regional PsyD Programs
Consider these nearby states with strong PsyD options:
- Colorado Psychology Doctorate Programs
- Arizona Psychology Doctorate Programs
- California Psychology Doctorate Programs
Combined Master’s and Doctoral Programs
For students seeking an accelerated path, combined master’s and PsyD programs offer streamlined education, typically reducing total study time by 1-2 years.
How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Utah
Utah maintains specific requirements for psychology licensure, administered by the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). The process involves several critical steps that must be completed sequentially.
Educational Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree: Begin with a bachelor’s degree, preferably in psychology or a closely related field. If your undergraduate degree is in a field other than psychology, ensure it includes relevant coursework in psychological foundations.
Research Experience: While pursuing your bachelor’s degree, seek research assistant opportunities with psychology professors. This experience provides valuable insights into psychological research methods and helps strengthen graduate school applications.
Graduate Education: Complete an APA-accredited doctoral program in psychology. Utah accepts both PhD and PsyD degrees, provided the program meets APA accreditation standards.
Supervised Experience Requirements
Utah requires 4,000 hours of supervised professional experience, which can be accumulated through:
- Pre-doctoral internships: Up to 2,000 hours may be completed during doctoral training
- Post-doctoral supervision: Remaining hours must be completed under licensed psychologist supervision
- Supervision standards: All supervision must meet DOPL’s specific requirements for frequency and documentation
Examination Requirements
Candidates must pass two examinations:
- Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP): National standardized exam testing psychological knowledge
- Psychology Law and Ethics Examination: Utah-specific exam covering state laws and ethical standards
Application Process
Submit a complete application package to DOPL, including:
- Completed application form and fees
- Official transcripts sent directly from degree-granting institutions
- Supervised experience verification forms
- Supporting documentation for any positive responses to background questions
License Maintenance
Utah psychology licenses expire on September 30 of even-numbered years. Renewal requirements include:
- Continuing education credits as specified by DOPL
- Payment of renewal fees
- Compliance with all professional standards
Licensure by Endorsement
Psychologists licensed in other states may qualify for licensure by endorsement if they meet all Utah requirements and maintain good standing in their current jurisdiction.
Utah Psychology Salary and Career Outlook
Utah offers exceptional financial prospects for psychology professionals, ranking among the top states for both salary levels and job growth projections.
Current Salary Data
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Comparison to National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $110,630 | Above National Average |
| Top 10% Earners | $169,260 | Significantly Above Average |
| Entry Level (25th percentile) | $78,000 – $85,000 | Competitive |
Career Growth Projections
Utah leads the nation in job growth projections for clinical and counseling psychologists:
- 50% job growth projected through 2032 (highest in the nation)
- Above-average salary growth expected due to high demand
- Diverse employment opportunities across healthcare, education, and private practice
Employment Sectors
Utah psychologists find opportunities across multiple sectors:
- Healthcare Systems: Hospitals, medical centers, and integrated health organizations
- Educational Institutions: Universities, K-12 schools, and educational support services
- Government Agencies: State and federal positions in mental health services
- Private Practice: Independent and group practice opportunities
- Corporate Settings: Employee assistance programs and organizational psychology
For detailed salary information by specialization, visit our comprehensive Utah Clinical Psychologist Salary guide.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Utah’s psychology doctorate programs maintain competitive admission standards. Success requires careful preparation and strategic application planning.
Common Prerequisites
| Requirement | University of Utah | Utah State University | Brigham Young University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 overall, 3.5 psychology | 3.0 overall, 3.5 preferred | 3.0 overall, 3.5 psychology |
| GRE Scores | Required | Required | Required |
| Research Experience | Strongly recommended | Required | Required |
| Clinical Experience | Recommended | Recommended | Recommended |
Application Timeline
Plan your application process carefully, as deadlines are typically in December for fall admission:
- Spring (Application Year): Begin preparing application materials
- Summer: Complete GRE examinations
- Fall: Request transcripts and letters of recommendation
- December 1-15: Most application deadlines
- January-March: Interview invitations and campus visits
- April 15: Standard acceptance deadline
Strengthening Your Application
Competitive applicants typically demonstrate:
- Strong academic performance in psychology coursework
- Research experience with faculty mentors or research labs
- Clinical or volunteer experience in mental health settings
- Clear career goals aligned with program strengths
- Strong letters of recommendation from psychology faculty
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any PsyD programs in Utah?
Currently, no universities in Utah offer PsyD programs. However, students can pursue PhD programs within the state or consider accredited online PsyD programs from other institutions.
What’s the difference between Utah’s PhD programs in psychology?
Utah offers programs in Clinical Psychology (University of Utah, BYU), Counseling Psychology (University of Utah, BYU), School Psychology (University of Utah, Utah State), and a unique combined program in Clinical-Counseling (Utah State). Each has different emphases on research, clinical practice, and specialized populations.
How long does it take to become licensed in the state of Utah?
The complete process typically takes 8-10 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 5-6 years for a doctoral program (including internship), and 1-2 years of post-doctoral supervision to accumulate the required supervised hours.
Can I practice psychology in Utah with an online degree?
Yes, if the online program is APA-accredited and you complete all the Utah licensing requirements, including supervised experience and passing the examination. However, clinical training components must be completed in person.
What are the admission requirements for Utah psychology programs?
Requirements typically include a bachelor’s degree (preferably in psychology), a competitive GPA (minimum of 3.0, with a preference for 3.5 or higher), GRE scores, research experience, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining career goals.
Do Utah psychology programs offer funding?
Many programs offer assistantships, fellowships, or other forms of funding. Contact individual programs directly for specific funding information, as availability and amounts vary by institution and program.
What specializations are available in Utah psychology programs?
Specializations include Clinical Child and Family Psychology, Clinical Neuropsychology, Clinical Health/Behavioral Medicine, Counseling Psychology, School Psychology, and the unique Clinical-Counseling combined approach at Utah State University.
2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics salary 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.
