Dual Degree Programs in Psychology

Q: Can I get my Ph.D. and master's in psychology at the same time?

Yes, there are programs where you can earn your master's in psychology and Ph.D. at the same time. For example, the dual degree program at DePaul University allows students to earn their MA in psychology while simultaneously working toward their Ph.D.

Q: How many years does a Ph.D. after a master's in psychology take?

Ph.D. programs can take 4-7 additional years after earning a master's in psychology. The exact length of time will depend on the program requirements and if you plan to study full time or part time. It may also depend on how long it takes to successfully defend your dissertation.

Q: Can you complete a psychology dual degree program online?

Whether you can complete a psychology dual degree program online depends on the degree and the school. At many programs, you can complete at least part of the coursework online or in a hybrid format. However, most doctoral programs have in-person requirements, so finding a fully online dual degree program may prove challenging.

Updated on July 31, 2025

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Explore dual degree programs in psychology that combine master’s and Psy.D. programs.

A bachelor’s degree in psychology can lead to great jobs, but some advanced positions in fields ranging from public health to criminal justice might require expertise from an advanced degree.

A dual degree program in psychology and a related field can help you advance in many psychology careers. We compiled some accredited programs to help you move forward.

What Is a Dual Degree in Psychology?

Dual degree programs are specialized programs in which you earn two degrees at once. Unlike double majors, in dual degree programs, you will fulfill the requirements to earn two separate degrees, rather than one degree with two specializations.

Dual degree programs exist for two degrees at the same level (such as two bachelor’s or two master’s degrees) or for two degrees at different levels (such as a master’s and doctorate).

Here we will focus on some dual degree programs that let you earn a combined master’s and doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) or doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in psychology. The master’s degree is typically in another field outside of psychology, but not always.

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9 Dual Degree Programs in Psychology

Dual Degree Psychology Programs
Program	School	Program Length	In-State Tuition and Fees	Out-of-State Tuition and Fees	Online Option
Dual Master of Public Health and Ph.D. in Community Psychology	Georgia State University	6-7 years	$4,264 annually	$6,144 annually	No
Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology and Master of Public Health	University of Kansas	N/A	$9,158 annually	$20,428 annually	No
Master of Science (MS)/Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology	Loyola University Maryland	Within 7 years	$37,500 annually	$37,500 annually	No
Dual Clinical Psy.D. and Master of Clinical Justice	Widener University	~5 years	$40,860 annually	$40,860 annually	Hybrid
Dual Psy.D. and Master of Business Administration (MBA)	Widener University	~5 years	$40,860 annually	$40,860 annually	Hybrid
Dual Psy.D. and Master of Public Health	Mercer University	5-7 years	$114,500 total	$114,500 total	No
Joint Clinical Psychology Ph.D. and MBA	Nova Southeastern University	~5 years	$50,024 annually	$50,024 annually	No
Dual Master of Arts (MA) and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology	DePaul University	5-6 years	$836 per credit hour	$836 per credit hour	No
Dual MA and Ph.D. in Psychology	University of Nebraska-Lincoln	N/A	$8,950 annually	$22,198 annually	No

The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits most of the above psychology programs, meaning a doctoral degree from these programs should set you on the path to becoming a licensed psychologist.

While the University of Kansas’ dual degree program is instead accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International Accreditation Board, this should still meet the state’s licensing requirement.

Master’s and doctorate combined programs require separate programmatic accreditation for each degree program.

What Are the Benefits of a Dual Degree Psychology Program?

There are many potential benefits to a dual degree program. Here are the top reasons you may want to apply.

Save time.
Dual degree programs allow you to pursue your interests faster, shaving 2-3 years off your total timeline to earning both degrees.
Save money.
Dual degree programs may cost less than pursuing two separate degrees due to overlapping coursework. Less time in school also equals lower living costs while studying.
Increase professional opportunities.
Pursuing two related degrees may open up more career options and more specialized positions in your area of interest.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Dual Degree in Psychology?

Dual degree programs aren’t short, but they do save you time compared to pursuing both degrees separately. Master’s and Ph.D. dual degree programs last about 5-7 years. Completing a Ph.D. in psychology also takes about seven years, on average, according to APA. But earning an additional master’s can take an extra 2-3 years if you pursue the degrees separately.

Individual Degrees vs. Dual Degree
Comparison	Dual Degree Program	Master’s Program	Ph.D. Program
Time (in years)	5-7	2-3	5-7
Credits	90-120	30-60	90-120
Cost	$150,000+	$50,000-$85,000	$200,000-$400,000

Psychology Dual Degree Programs

MBA and Psy.D.

MPH and Ph.D. in Psychology

MCJ and Psy.D.

How to Apply to Dual Psychology Degree Programs?

The first step to apply to combined master’s and Psy.D. or Ph.D. programs is to research specific programs that may be a good fit for your interests. Once you have identified a few programs, begin gathering your application materials. Typically, dual degree programs will require the following:

Transcripts from your bachelor’s program
A statement of purpose describing your interest in the program, your research interests, and your career ambitions
A curriculum vitae (CV) or resume that describes your relevant experience
Letters of recommendation from faculty and/or employers

Some dual degree programs require students to apply to each degree program separately. The specifics vary by institution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Degree Programs in Psychology

What’s the difference between a dual degree and a double major?

In a dual degree program, students earn two separate degrees, while with a double major, students only earn one degree with two specializations.

A dual degree will usually take longer than a single degree program. You can earn two degrees at the same level (e.g., two bachelor’s degrees) or two degrees at different levels (e.g., a master’s degree and a Ph.D.). Completing a double major doesn’t necessarily take longer than completing a single major, though it sometimes can.