Dual Degree Programs in Psychology
Key Takeaways
- Psychology dual-degree programs can save you time and money on your education.
- These programs appeal to learners with clear academic and professional goals.
- Admission requirements may include an undergraduate major or minor in psychology.
In a dual psychology degree program, you can earn two graduate degrees at the same time, often faster than completing them separately. These specialized programs sometimes combine the master’s and doctoral curricula.
And if you’re on a budget and have clear career goals, a psychology graduate degree — paired with disciplines like business, criminal justice, and public health — might be the right choice for you.
What Are Dual Degree Programs in Psychology?
Dual psychology master’s and doctoral programs combine the curricula of both degrees into one academic program. Depending on the university, combinations can include:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)
- Master of Public Health (MPH) and Ph.D.
- Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) and Psy.D.
The best option for you depends on your academic interests and professional goals.
Types of Psychology Dual Degree Programs
University psychology departments may offer one or more dual-degree programs. Review the following highlights to learn the key differences among them.
MBA and Psy.D.
- This program emphasizes clinical psychology and business fundamentals.
- Consider this track if you want to work in industrial-organizational psychology.
- Potential careers include business consulting, executive coaching, human resources management, and other jobs requiring a master’s in business administration.
MPH and Ph.D. in Psychology
- This track combines a master’s in public health with a Ph.D. in behavioral or community psychology.
- Specializations include community health, public policy, and psychological development.
- Consider this option if you want to work for a public health, social services, or a nonprofit agency.
MCJ and Psy.D.
- This program features coursework in criminal justice and clinical psychology.
- Students who choose this track graduate ready to work within the criminal justice system.
- Popular careers for graduates include forensic psychology.
Choosing a Psychology Dual Degree Program
Once you’ve chosen a type of psychology dual-degree program, you need to find the right school. Review the options in the table below to learn more about tuition and program length.
| Program | Program Length | Tuition | Online Option | Right For… |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Master of Public Health and Ph.D. in Community Psychology, Georgia State University | 6-7 years | $4,895 annually in-state; $16,180 annually out-of-state | No | Students wanting to promote social change at the community level |
| Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology and Master of Public Health, University of Kansas | N/A | $8,485 annually in-state; $19,940 annually out-of-state | No | Those interested in community health and development |
| Master of Science (MS)/Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, Loyola University Maryland | Within 7 years | $39,000 annually in-state; $39,000 annually out-of-state | No | Learners wanting a curriculum emphasizing hands-on experiences and field placements |
| Dual Clinical Psy.D. and Master of Clinical Justice, Widener University | ~5 years | $148,800 total in-state; $148,800 total out-of-state | Hybrid | Students needing a flexible educational experience |
| Dual Psy.D. and Master of Business Administration (MBA), Widener University | ~5 years | $148,800 total in-state; $148,800 total out-of-state | Hybrid | Those seeking executive coaching or organizational consulting specialties |
| Dual Psy.D. and Master of Public Health, Mercer University | ~5 years | $114,500 total in-state; $114,500 total out-of-state | No | Learners planning to practice in Georgia after graduation |
| Joint Clinical Psychology Ph.D. and MBA, Nova Southeastern University | ~5 years | $50,024 annually in-state; $50,024 annually out-of-state | No | Students living in or around Fort Lauderdale, Florida |
| Dual Master of Arts (MA) and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, DePaul University | 5-6 years | $836 per credit hour in-state; $836 per credit hour out-of-state | No | Those planning to specialize in community or childhood development |
| Dual MA and Ph.D. in Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln | N/A | $383 per credit hour in-state; $1,119 per credit hour out-of-state | No | Learners wanting many specialization options |
How to Choose the Right Psychology Dual Degree Program for You
To choose the right psychology dual-degree program, assess what’s important to you. Answering these questions is a good start:
- How much can I afford to spend on my education?
- What are my short- and long-term career goals?
- Do I need to continue working while in school?
- What are my state’s licensure requirements for clinical psychologists?
- Does my program need American Psychological Association accreditation?
If you can’t find the information you need online, contact universities’ admissions departments for more information.
How Long Do Psychology Dual Degree Programs Take?
Typical psychology dual-degree programs take 5-7 years. Review the table below to discover how earning a dual degree can save you time and money on your education.
| Degrees | 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 |
Are Psychology Dual Degree Programs Worth It?
The answer depends on many factors, such as potential return on investment. Entering the job market sooner than your peers who earn a master’s and doctorate separately can help you gain valuable professional experience. Don’t forget to compare how programs’ concentration options may impact your career and salary potential.
Other advantages can include a lower cost of attendance (COA). Lower COA may reduce your student loan burden. You can also lower your COA by focusing on funded programs or those offering stipends to graduate teaching assistants.
How to Apply to Dual Psychology Degree Programs
Psychology dual-degree programs want applicants with a clear vision for their professional future. As a result, your personal statement and essay play a significant role in the admissions process. The people you ask to write recommendation letters should understand what you want to achieve in the psychology field, as well.
Programs may limit applicants to those who majored in psychology or completed significant psychology coursework as an undergraduate. Prospective students without this academic background can still apply to many programs, but may need to complete foundational courses before starting the graduate curriculum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Degree Programs in Psychology
Dual-degree programs in psychology are not necessarily harder to get into than traditional master’s or doctoral programs. However, as these programs want applicants dedicated to a career in psychology, you should make your intentions clear in your application.
Knowing what you want to achieve by working in the psychology field can make you a more competitive applicant.
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