Texas Psychology Doctorate Programs: Complete 2025 Guide
Table of Contents
- Quick Facts About Texas Psychology Programs
- PsyD vs PhD: Choosing Your Path
- Top APA-Accredited PsyD Programs in Texas
- Leading PhD Psychology Programs in Texas
- Program Comparison Table
- How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Texas
- Texas Psychology Career Outcomes and Salary Data
- How to Choose the Right Texas Psychology Program
- Frequently Asked Questions
Students pursuing a career in psychology have exceptional opportunities to earn their doctorate in Texas. The Lone Star State offers numerous Texas psychology doctorate programs, including both practitioner-focused PsyD degrees and research-oriented PhD programs. Whether you’re interested in clinical practice, counseling, or academic research, Texas provides comprehensive training options through APA-accredited institutions.
This comprehensive guide examines all accredited psychology doctoral programs in Texas, including admission requirements, career outcomes, and the pathway to becoming a licensed psychologist in the state. With Texas ranking fourth nationally in psychology employment opportunities, choosing the right program is crucial for your professional success.
Quick Facts About Texas Psychology Programs
- APA-Accredited Programs: Texas hosts 12+ APA-accredited doctorate programs across 8 universities
- Employment Ranking: Texas ranks 4th nationally for psychology employment opportunities
- Median Salary: Clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median of $72,320 annually
- Job Growth: Psychology careers projected to grow 6% from 2022-2032
- Licensure Rate: University of Houston maintains a 100% licensure rate (2014-2022)
- Affordable Options: Texas Tech offers in-state tuition at just $11,852 annually
PsyD vs PhD: Choosing Your Psychology Doctorate Path
Understanding the fundamental differences between PsyD and PhD programs is essential for making an informed decision about your psychology education in Texas. Both degrees prepare graduates for psychology licensure, but they emphasize different aspects of psychological training.
| Program Aspect | PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) | PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Clinical practice and applied psychology | Research and academic preparation |
| Training Model | Practitioner-scholar model | Scientist-practitioner model |
| Duration | 4-6 years | 5-7 years |
| Clinical Hours | 2,000-3,000 hours | 1,500-2,000 hours |
| Dissertation | Applied research or clinical project | Original research with new findings |
| Career Outcomes | Private practice, clinical settings, healthcare | Academia, research, clinical practice |
Top APA-Accredited PsyD Programs in Texas
Texas offers three fully APA-accredited PsyD programs, each providing exceptional clinical training and preparation for professional psychology practice. These programs emphasize hands-on clinical experience, evidence-based practice, and the development of professional competencies.
Our Lady of the Lake University – San Antonio
Our Lady of the Lake University offers a PsyD in Counseling Psychology that trains doctoral students for comprehensive psychological assessment and intervention with individuals, families, groups, and couples. This APA-accredited program emphasizes professional practice competencies, comprising four years of coursework and one year of supervised internship.
- Institution Type: Private Catholic University
- Main Campus: San Antonio, Texas
- Annual Tuition: $1,065 per credit hour
- Total Credit Hours: 107 hours required for graduation
- Specialization: Counseling Psychology
- Unique Features: Bilingual training track available, strong community mental health focus
- Accreditation: APA-accredited since 2006
- Application Deadline: January 15
Baylor University – Waco
Baylor University’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology develops competent professional psychologists with advanced clinical and conceptual competencies. The program uses a practitioner-scientist training model, emphasizing clinical competence grounded in psychological science.
- Institution Type: Private Baptist University
- Main Campus: Waco, Texas
- Annual Tuition: $61,695 (Full tuition remission provided to all students in good standing)
- Program Duration: 4-5 years
- Specialization: Clinical Psychology
- Financial Support: All admitted students receive full tuition coverage plus stipend
- Accreditation: APA-accredited
- Unique Features: Integration of Christian worldview, small cohort sizes
University of Houston Clear Lake
The University of Houston Clear Lake provides an APA-accredited PsyD in Health Service Psychology with a clinical practice focus. This four-year program emphasizes evidence-based practice, cognitive-behavioral psychology, and preparation for diverse clinical environments.
- Institution Type: Public University
- Main Campus: Houston (Clear Lake area)
- Annual Tuition: $11,876 in-state, $24,692 out-of-state
- Program Duration: 4 years
- Specialization: Health Service Psychology
- Accreditation: APA-accredited
- Clinical Training: Extensive partnerships with medical centers and community clinics
Angelo State University – San Angelo (Under APA Review)
Angelo State University offers a PsyD in Counseling Psychology that prepares students for licensure as professional psychologists in Texas. This newer program is currently under review for APA accreditation and offers a comprehensive residential training experience.
- Institution Type: Public University
- Main Campus: San Angelo, Texas
- Program Duration: 6 years (105 semester credit hours)
- Transfer Credits: Up to 24 credits accepted for related master’s degrees
- Specialization: Counseling Psychology
- Accreditation Status: Under APA review
- Unique Features: Focus on rural and underserved populations
Leading PhD Psychology Programs in Texas
Texas universities offer numerous APA-accredited PhD programs in psychology, providing extensive research training alongside clinical preparation. These programs typically follow a scientist-practitioner model, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, and clinical practice.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center – Dallas
UT Southwestern’s Clinical Psychology PhD program operates within a major medical center, providing exceptional research and clinical training opportunities. The program follows a clinician-researcher model with access to diverse psychiatric and medical populations.
- Institution Type: Public Medical Center
- Annual Tuition: $12,074 in-state, $25,934 out-of-state
- Specialization: Clinical Psychology
- Clinical Hours: 1,400+ hours of supervised training
- Unique Features: Medical center setting, extensive volunteer faculty network
University of Texas at Austin
UT Austin offers three APA-accredited PhD programs: Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and School-Clinical Child Psychology. Each program emphasizes scientific training and research excellence.
| Program | Annual Tuition (In-State) | Annual Tuition (Out-of-State) | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychology PhD | $4,464 | $8,847 | Clinical science, research methodology |
| Counseling Psychology PhD | $13,976 | $27,229 | Counseling theory, multicultural psychology |
| School-Clinical Child PhD | $13,976 | $27,229 | Child psychology, educational settings |
Texas A&M University – College Station
Texas A&M offers three APA-accredited PhD programs that combine clinical-scientist and scientist-practitioner training models. Students receive comprehensive preparation for academic, research, and clinical careers.
- Clinical Psychology PhD: $2,582 in-state, $7,348 out-of-state
- Counseling Psychology PhD: $9,062 in-state, $18,629 out-of-state
- School Psychology PhD: $4,531 in-state, $9,315 out-of-state
Texas Tech University – Lubbock
Texas Tech offers two APA-accredited PhD programs with extensive practicum training at the on-campus Psychology Clinic and partnerships with local healthcare facilities.
- Clinical Psychology PhD: $2,412 for all students
- Counseling Psychology PhD: $9,518 in-state, $17,698 out-of-state
Additional Texas PhD Programs
University of Texas at Tyler – Offers a Clinical Psychology PhD with focus on traditionally underserved populations, veterans, and geropsychology. Currently on APA contingency accreditation status.
Sam Houston State University – Provides an APA-accredited Clinical Psychology PhD with emphasis on forensic psychology and legal applications. Annual tuition: $17,568.
University of Texas at Dallas – Offers a research-focused Psychology PhD with concentrations in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and behavioral neuroscience. Ideal for students pursuing academic or research careers.
Texas Psychology Program Comparison
| University | Degree Type | Accreditation | Annual Tuition (In-State) | Program Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baylor University | PsyD Clinical | APA | Full funding provided | Clinical practice, Christian integration |
| UH Clear Lake | PsyD Health Service | APA | $11,876 | Health psychology, CBT |
| Our Lady of the Lake | PsyD Counseling | APA | $1,065/credit | Counseling, bilingual services |
| UT Southwestern | PhD Clinical | APA | $12,074 | Medical psychology, research |
| UT Austin | PhD (3 programs) | APA | $4,464-$13,976 | Research, clinical science |
| Texas A&M | PhD (3 programs) | APA | $2,582-$9,062 | Research, clinical training |
How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Texas
Pursuing psychology licensure in Texas requires completing specific educational and supervised experience requirements as outlined by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. The comprehensive process ensures that licensed psychologists possess the knowledge and skills necessary for safe, effective practice.
Educational Requirements
Undergraduate Education: Begin with a bachelor’s degree, preferably in psychology or a related field. Texas requires specific prerequisite coursework that aligns with APA standards.
Graduate Education: Complete a doctoral degree (PsyD or PhD) from an APA-accredited program or one that meets equivalent standards as determined by the Texas State Board. Your program must include:
- Minimum 60 graduate credit hours
- Core curriculum covering psychological foundations
- Supervised clinical training experiences
- Completion of dissertation or doctoral project
Supervised Experience Requirements
Texas requires 1,800 hours of supervised psychology experience before licensure:
- Pre-doctoral internship: Minimum 1,500 hours (can be completed part-time over two years)
- Post-doctoral supervision: 1,750 hours under a licensed psychologist
- School psychology track: 600 hours must be completed in public school settings
Examination Requirements
All psychology licensure candidates must pass two mandatory examinations:
- Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP): National standardized exam covering psychology knowledge areas
- Texas Jurisprudence Examination: State-specific exam covering Texas laws and regulations
Total examination fees: $843 (non-refundable)
Licensure Application Process
Step 1: Provisional License Application
- Submit application with official transcripts
- Pass criminal background check
- Provide two passport-style photographs
- Pay applicable fees
Step 2: Complete Supervised Training
- Work under licensed psychologist supervision for two years
- Complete 3,500 total supervised hours
- Document all supervision activities
Step 3: Full License Application
- Apply through the PLUS program online system
- Processing time: approximately 6 weeks
- Application fee: $180
Continuing Education Requirements
Licensed psychologists in Texas must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including:
- Ethics training (minimum 6 hours)
- Cultural competency training
- Current research and evidence-based practices
Texas Psychology Career Outcomes and Salary Data
Texas provides excellent career opportunities for psychology professionals, ranking fourth nationally in total psychology employment. The state’s diverse economy, growing population, and expanded mental health awareness create strong demand for licensed psychologists across various settings.
Current Salary Ranges for Texas Psychologists
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, clinical and counseling psychologists in Texas demonstrate competitive earning potential:
| Salary Percentile | Annual Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Median (50th percentile) | $72,320 | Half of psychologists earn above this amount |
| Mean (Average) | $83,830 | Average salary across all experience levels |
| 75th Percentile | $99,050 | Top 25% of earners reach this level |
| 90th Percentile | $136,380 | Top 10% of experienced psychologists |
Employment Statistics
- Total Employment: 3,410 licensed psychologists in Texas
- National Ranking: 4th largest psychology workforce (behind California, New York, Illinois)
- Job Growth Projection: 6% increase from 2022-2032 (faster than average)
- Geographic Distribution: Major metropolitan areas offer highest employment concentrations
Career Specialization Opportunities
Texas psychology graduates pursue diverse career paths, with salary potential varying by specialization and level of experience. Popular career tracks include:
- Private Practice: Independent or group practice settings
- Healthcare Systems: Hospitals, medical centers, integrated care
- Community Mental Health: Public sector and nonprofit organizations
- Educational Settings: Universities, school districts, research institutions
- Forensic Psychology: Court systems, correctional facilities, legal consultation
- Corporate Consulting: Employee assistance programs, organizational psychology
For comprehensive Texas psychology salary information by specialty and region, visit our Texas Clinical Psychology Salary Guide.
How to Choose the Right Texas Psychology Program
Selecting the optimal psychology doctorate program requires careful evaluation of multiple factors that align with your career goals, learning style, and personal circumstances. Consider these essential criteria when comparing Texas psychology programs:
Accreditation Status
Prioritize APA-accredited programs for the strongest career outcomes. APA accreditation ensures:
- Programs meet rigorous educational standards
- Graduates are eligible for psychology licensure
- Employers and licensing boards recognize your degree
- Access to competitive internship opportunities
Program Structure and Philosophy
Match the training model to your career aspirations:
- Practitioner-Scholar Model (PsyD): Emphasizes clinical practice with applied research
- Scientist-Practitioner Model (PhD): Balances research training with clinical preparation
- Clinical-Scientist Model: Research-focused with clinical applications
Financial Considerations
Evaluate the total cost of education and available funding:
- Tuition and fees: Compare in-state vs. out-of-state costs
- Living expenses: Consider cost of living in different Texas cities
- Financial aid: Research assistantships, scholarships, and loan options
- Funding opportunities: Some programs offer full tuition remission
Clinical Training Quality
Assess the breadth and depth of clinical training opportunities:
- Training sites: Variety of clinical placements and populations served
- Supervision quality: Faculty-to-student ratios and supervisor credentials
- Internship match rates: Success in securing competitive internship placements
- Licensure pass rates: Program graduate success on licensing examinations
Faculty Expertise and Research Opportunities
Consider faculty qualifications and research alignment:
- Faculty credentials: Board certifications, research publications, clinical experience
- Research areas: Alignment with your interests and career goals
- Mentorship opportunities: Access to individualized guidance and support
- Professional development: Conference presentations, publication opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PsyD and PhD programs in Texas?
PsyD programs focus primarily on clinical practice and applied psychology, following a practitioner-scholar training model. PhD programs emphasize research training alongside clinical preparation, using a scientist-practitioner approach. Both degrees qualify graduates for psychology licensure in Texas, but PhD programs typically require more extensive research and dissertation requirements.
How long does it take to complete a psychology doctorate in Texas?
PsyD programs typically require 4-6 years to complete, including coursework, clinical training, and internship. PhD programs typically last 5-7 years, with additional time required for comprehensive research and dissertation completion. The timeline can vary based on full-time versus part-time enrollment and prior graduate coursework.
Are online psychology doctorate programs available in Texas?
Currently, no APA-accredited psychology doctorate programs in Texas are offered entirely online. All programs require substantial in-person clinical training, practicum experiences, and supervised practice hours. However, students may consider accredited online PsyD programs from other states that qualify graduates for licensure in Texas.
What are the admission requirements for Texas psychology programs?
Most Texas psychology doctorate programs require: a bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred for some programs), a minimum GPA of 3.0-3.5, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, clinical or research experience, and interviews. Specific requirements vary by program and should be verified with individual schools.
How much do psychologists earn in Texas?
According to current BLS data, clinical and counseling psychologists in Texas earn a median annual salary of $72,320, with the top 10% earning $136,380 or more. Earning potential varies by specialization, experience level, practice setting, and geographic location within the state.
What specializations are available in Texas psychology programs?
Texas universities offer psychology specializations, including clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school psychology, health service psychology, forensic psychology, and research-focused areas. Some programs offer specialized training tracks, including bilingual psychology services, geropsychology, and child psychology.
Is it harder to get into PsyD or PhD programs?
Both program types are highly competitive, with acceptance rates typically ranging from 5-15%. PhD programs may have more stringent research requirements, while PsyD programs often emphasize clinical experience. Admission competitiveness varies by specific program’s reputation, funding availability, and the quality of the applicant pool.
Do I need a master’s degree before applying to doctorate programs in Texas?
Requirements vary by program. Some Texas psychology programs accept students directly from bachelor’s degree programs, while others require or prefer a relevant master’s degree. Our Lady of the Lake University specifically requires a master’s degree for admission to their PsyD program.
May 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures for Psychologists. Information based on state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed July 2025.
