[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As the world continues to change, behavioral psychologists and their studies have become more essential than ever.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Behavioral psychology is a theoretical approach to psychology that examines human behavior. Most schools do not have doctoral programs in behavioral psychology. Instead, they offer psychology doctorate degrees in applied behavior analysis or behavioral neuroscience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctoral students in behavior analysis research how different environments affect human actions and how to modify behavior. A Ph.D. in this field opens doors to clinical, research, and academic careers. Graduates with a behavior analysis doctorate can earn their professional licenses to become psychologists. They can also pursue leadership roles in behavior analysis organizations and academic or research careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm/”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link], psychologists earn a median salary of over $94,310 , which is above the average for all careers. A doctorate degree in behavior analysis can also lead to a career as a psychology professor, community services manager, or behavior analyst. Many of these careers are projected to report positive job growth rates from 2023-2033.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This guide introduces the best online doctorate programs in behavior analysis. The programs are not ranked, but rather listed in alphabetical order. Prospective applicants can use this information to identify the program that provides the best fit for their interests and professional goals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Doctorate in Behavioral Psychology Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”]
#1 Best Online Doctorate in Counseling
Endicott College
Beverly, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-State$33,304
- Out-of-state$33,304
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-State$12,555
- Out-of-state$12,555
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled4,741
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
#2 Best Online Doctorate in Counseling
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-State$10,992
- Out-of-state$10,992
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-State$20,610
- Out-of-state$20,610
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,307
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
[hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Best Online Doctorate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ class=”not-prose”]Behavioral Psychology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]2022[/hen-ui-text]
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[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Online Doctorate in Behavioral Psychology Programs Ranking Guidelines[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We selected these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”] Rankings Methodology[/hen-ui-link]
[/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-is”]What Is an Online Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A doctorate in behavior analysis qualifies graduates for research, academic, and leadership roles. Many psychology career paths require candidates to possess doctorates. For example, licensed psychologists and psychology professors typically hold Ph.D. or Psy.D. degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]During a doctoral program in behavior analysis, graduate students study applied behavioral science, experimental analysis, community health, and behavioral assessment. Coursework builds strong analytical and research skills. Doctoral students also gain clinical abilities through internships and practicums.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a doctorate in psychology takes several years. Most Ph.D. programs take 5-7 years to complete the coursework, internship, and dissertation requirements. Psy.D. programs generally take a slightly shorter 4-6 years, including supervised clinical experience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admission requirements for behavior analysis doctoral programs vary among universities. Most doctoral programs in psychology require an accredited [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-psychology/”]bachelor’s degree in psychology[/hen-ui-link] or a related field for admission.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Applicants do not need [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-psychology/”]master’s degrees in psychology[/hen-ui-link] to enter doctoral programs. However, many programs set prerequisite undergraduate coursework in psychology and statistics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Each candidate typically must provide GRE scores, a resume, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Online programs often conduct interviews to determine fit.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing an Online Doctoral Behavioral Psychology Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before pursuing an online doctorate in psychology, prospective doctoral students must find the right program for their needs and goals. Online programs prioritize flexibility, but applicants should consider whether their prospective programs feature any in-person classes or field experience requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other key considerations include cost, eligibility for in-state tuition or tuition deductions, and program length. Applicants can also narrow their options by exploring course formats, the number of required credits, and any additional fees. Additionally, psychology degree-seekers should look into specialization options, coursework requirements, and faculty.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Accreditation for Online Behavioral Psychology Degree Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective applicants should research [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]university and program accreditation[/hen-ui-link] before applying to doctorate in psychology programs. Accredited universities meet the highest standards for educating students and granting degrees. Accredited degrees meet the requirements for professional licenses and certifications.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.accreditation.apa.org/”]American Psychological Association[/hen-ui-link] (APA) grants accreditation to doctoral programs. However, APA only accredits programs with in-person components, including hybrid programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”expect”]What Else Can I Expect From a Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]During a doctoral program in behavior analysis, each graduate student chooses a specialization area, such as neuroscience and behavior, the psychology of learning, or organizational behavior. Doctoral candidates strengthen their skills through specialized coursework and hands-on internships before completing dissertations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Common Courses for an Online Doctorate in Behavioral Psychology[/hen-ui-heading] - Organizational Behavior Management: In organizational behavior management courses, graduate students explore organizational behaviors, productivity, and efficiency. Students examine what psychological approaches can be taken to encourage staff development, improve performance, and increase behavioral safety. The class prepares behavior analysis students for careers in organizational behavior management.
- Regression Analysis: In courses on regression analysis, learners strengthen their statistical and analytical skills. They learn how to analyze psychological data using techniques like probability and statistical modeling. This course prepares doctoral candidates to conduct dissertation research.
- Behaviorism: Courses on behaviorism critically examine the learning theory developed by John B. Watson in the early 20th century. Doctoral students study the evolution of behaviorism as a theory on the acquisition of knowledge. They explore applications of behaviorism in education and in treating behavioral disorders. The class also addresses critiques of behaviorism.
- Research Design: The course examines the research process, along with how to develop research questions and follow ethical practices. Students strengthen their methodological and independent research skills. The course prepares doctoral candidates to complete their dissertations.
- Cognitive Psychology: Graduate-level cognitive psychology courses examine how people process and interpret information. Coursework covers cognitive theory and current research in the field, along with perception, memory, and language acquisition. Other topics include intelligence, learning, and social cognition. In addition to lectures, students may complete labs to study human cognition.