2026 Best PsyD Programs in North Dakota: APA Accredited Online & Campus

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Finding the best PsyD programs in North Dakota is vital for students pursuing clinical psychology careers, especially as the state faces a shortage of licensed professionals, with only 15 per 100,000 residents. Choosing the right online or campus APA-accredited program ensures essential clinical, assessment, and research skills for long-term success.

In this guide, I will discuss which North Dakota PsyD options offer APA accreditation, flexible learning formats, and specialized training paths. I will also compare admissions, clinical placements, cost, and career outcomes, so you can confidently choose a program that aligns with your goals.

Key Benefits of APA Accredited PsyD Programs in North Dakota

• Online APA-accredited PsyD programs offer flexible scheduling, enabling students to balance coursework with work or family commitments, which is crucial given the 15% growth projected in psychology jobs through 2030.
• These programs provide access to high-quality faculty and clinical training resources remotely, ensuring standards comparable to in-person instruction despite geographical barriers.
• On-campus programs foster direct peer interaction and hands-on clinical experiences that may enhance practical skills and professional networking essential for licensure and employment.

Table of Contents

1. How many APA accredited PsyD programs are available in North Dakota?
2. What are the best APA accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota?
3. Who is eligible to apply to APA accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota?
4. What are the requirements to get into an APA accredited PsyD program in North Dakota?
5. What PsyD specializations are available in North Dakota?
6. What courses are typically included in APA accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota?
7. How do PsyD students find internships in North Dakota?
8. What are the pros and cons of online and campus PsyD programs in North Dakota?
9. What jobs can you get with a PsyD in North Dakota?
10. What is the average salary of PsyD graduates in North Dakota?

How many APA accredited PsyD programs are available in North Dakota?

There are currently no APA-accredited PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) programs in North Dakota, either campus-based or online. The APA Commission on Accreditation (APA-CoA) is responsible for evaluating doctoral psychology programs through a rigorous process involving self-study reports, site visits, and ongoing reviews to ensure standards are met in curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, and graduate outcomes.

This accreditation is essential because many states, including North Dakota, require graduation from an APA-accredited program to qualify for licensure and to demonstrate professional credibility in the field. Without such accreditation, licensure eligibility and access to internships or postdoctoral opportunities may be limited. Given the absence of APA-accredited PsyD options, prospective students might instead consider the Ph.D. in Clinical

Psychology at the University of North Dakota (UND), which is APA-accredited and campus-based; the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at UND, currently seeking accreditation; or various online non-APA-accredited doctorate programs offered by universities outside North Dakota, though these require careful review regarding licensure eligibility.

Recent trends in North Dakota reflect a nationwide rise in online and hybrid doctoral programs; however, none offered within the state hold APA accreditation as of late 2025. The demand for qualified clinical psychologists in the region is increasing due to mental health challenges and workforce shortages, emphasizing the need for accredited training pathways.

UND's Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program maintains its accreditation status, providing a critical local option, while the counseling psychology program's accreditation pursuit could expand these options in the near future. Prospective students should remain attentive to updates in accreditation status and licensure regulations, as these factors directly influence their professional trajectories.

What are the best APA accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota?

Students evaluating the best APA-accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota should consider faculty expertise, research opportunities, clinical training partnerships, and student licensure outcomes. APA accreditation ensures programs meet national standards for quality and prepare graduates for licensure, which is critical for professional practice.

Currently, North Dakota does not offer any APA-accredited PsyD programs on campus; however, several options include:

• University of North Dakota (UND) - PhD in Clinical Psychology: APA-accredited, campus-based, located in Grand Forks, ND; while not a PsyD, it offers rigorous clinical training and licensure preparation over 4-6 years.
• The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - PsyD in Clinical Psychology: APA-accredited, available in online/hybrid formats accessible to North Dakota residents, with strong emphasis on practicum placements.
• National University - PsyD in Clinical Psychology: APA-accredited with flexible online/hybrid delivery, facilitating clinical training partnerships nationwide.
• Liberty University - PsyD in Clinical Psychology: APA-accredited online/hybrid program supporting advanced clinical competencies and licensure eligibility.
• Grand Canyon University - PsyD in General Psychology: fully online but not APA-accredited; prospective students should note licensure limitations in most states.

Confirming APA accreditation through official sources remains essential, as only graduates from accredited programs fully qualify for licensure in North Dakota and beyond. For those exploring related pathways, understanding career options with an ABA certification may broaden clinical and educational opportunities.

Who is eligible to apply to APA accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota?

Applicants best suited for on-campus APA-accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota often include recent graduates holding bachelor's or master's degrees in psychology who seek immersive training environments. These students typically value direct mentorship from faculty and collaboration with peers, as well as opportunities for hands-on clinical experiences integrated with local health systems or university clinics.

Career changers aiming for clinical licensure may also prefer this format to develop diverse clinical skills in a structured setting. Such programs foster close academic communities where students engage actively in research and supervised practice, creating a well-rounded preparation for professional roles. Some applicants additionally explore related fields, such as those aiming for top careers with an applied behavior analysis online certification, to complement their PsyD training.

In contrast, online or hybrid APA-accredited PsyD programs appeal largely to working professionals, individuals balancing family commitments, or those living remotely from accredited institutions. These formats offer greater flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to maintain professional responsibilities while pursuing advanced clinical training.

Applicants need strong self-motivation and organizational skills to succeed in asynchronous or hybrid learning models that still uphold rigorous APA standards for clinical preparation. This evolving approach reflects a growing trend nationwide toward distance education, making PsyD programs more inclusive for diverse career paths and life circumstances without compromising educational quality.

What are the requirements to get into an APA accredited PsyD program in North Dakota?

APA-accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota have specific academic and professional requirements designed to prepare students for rigorous doctoral-level clinical psychology training. Meeting these requirements helps ensure applicants are well-prepared for the demands of both online and campus-based PsyD programs in the state.

• Educational Background: Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, often in psychology or a related field, with many successful candidates holding a master's or extensive psychology coursework.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 is generally required, though competitive applicants often exceed 3.5.
• Relevant Experience: Clinical or research experience in psychology or mental health fields is highly valued, including internships or related employment.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Foundational courses such as Introduction to Psychology, Statistics, and Abnormal Psychology are commonly required, sometimes mandating at least 18 credits with grades of B or higher.
• Standardized Tests: The GRE is not always mandatory, but some programs may request GRE Psychology Subject Test results, especially if the undergraduate degree is not psychology.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, 2-3 recommendations are needed from academic or professional sources supporting the applicant's doctoral potential.
• Personal Statement: Applicants must provide a detailed statement describing their motivation, relevant experience, career goals, and alignment with program values.
• Interview or Assessment: Many programs require an interview, either in-person or virtual, to evaluate interpersonal and clinical skills.

Notably, as of late 2025, North Dakota's only APA-accredited clinical psychology doctoral program is a PhD offered by the University of North Dakota, with no accredited PsyD programs currently available in-state. Those seeking online options meeting North Dakota licensure requirements might explore out-of-state programs.

For those interested in similar fields, understanding what is the best applied behavior analysis program in the USA can provide additional pathways in behavioral sciences.

What PsyD specializations are available in North Dakota?

Choosing a PsyD specialization is essential to tailoring doctoral training to one's career goals and professional interests within psychology. Specializations influence not only coursework but also clinical experiences and future job opportunities, making them a pivotal consideration for students. Below are some of the prominent PsyD and related doctoral specializations available in North Dakota, reflecting regional needs and academic strengths.

• Clinical Psychology: Primarily offered through a PhD program at the University of North Dakota, this specialization emphasizes psychological assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based therapy. Students train in diverse settings like hospitals and community clinics, preparing them for roles in direct practice, research, or academia.
• Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience: Available at North Dakota State University, this track focuses on cognitive processes and neuropsychological methods. Graduates are equipped for research and applied work involving perception, learning, or human factors.
• Health Psychology: Also at NDSU, this specialization centers on the psychological aspects of physical health, behavior change, and wellness promotion. It prepares students for interdisciplinary collaboration on chronic illness and public health initiatives.
• Social Psychology: This option develops expertise in understanding group dynamics, social cognition, and behavior analysis, with graduates often engaging in research, program evaluation, or consulting.
• School Psychology: Offered as an Ed.S. degree at Minot State University, this specialization trains professionals for certified school psychologist roles, focusing on academic and behavioral interventions in K-12 settings.

Most programs emphasize on-campus training with no APA-accredited online PsyD options currently offered within the state; however, elective coursework and specialized practicum placements provide flexibility to tailor one's training. A psychologist from North Dakota, who earned his PsyD online, reflected on his decision-making process: "Choosing a specialization was daunting because the state's options are mainly foundational areas rather than niche specialties like neuropsychology."

He described balancing program availability with his interests, noting that the flexibility in practicum sites was crucial in gaining relevant experience. Though initially concerned about limited online options, he found that mentorship and elective tracks allowed him to concentrate on clinical psychology efficiently. "It wasn't just about the program's name, but how I could shape my training despite geographical and format constraints," he explained, emphasizing that thoughtful planning helped align his education with long-term goals.

What courses are typically included in APA accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota?

Curriculum knowledge is vital for prospective PsyD students aiming to build clinical, research, and ethical skills crucial to professional practice. While North Dakota currently offers an APA-accredited Clinical Psychology PhD rather than PsyD programs, the course frameworks remain closely aligned, reflecting national PsyD standards. Below are key courses typical in APA-accredited PsyD curricula, illustrating their focus and relevance for both online/hybrid and campus-based formats.

• Advanced Psychopathology: Covers diagnostic criteria and complex mental disorders, fostering assessment accuracy and treatment planning essential for clinical licensure.
• Psychotherapy Techniques: Introduces evidence-based modalities such as CBT and psychodynamic therapy, preparing students for individual and group interventions, emphasizing more in-campus and hybrid practicums.
• Psychological Assessment: Focuses on test administration and ethical interpretation, a critical skill typically developed in supervised clinical settings on campus or during internships.
• Research Methods and Statistics: Enhances scientific literacy and data analysis, often delivered online but integrated with in-person research components for accreditation.
• Ethics and Cultural Competence: Promotes multicultural awareness and legal standards, a core element across all delivery modes ensuring ethical practice.

How do PsyD students find internships in North Dakota?

Clinical internships are fundamental components of APA-accredited PsyD programs, playing a critical role both in preparing students for licensure and in fostering professional competencies essential for effective practice. These supervised experiences offer structured opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge, develop clinical skills, and navigate real-world challenges under expert guidance.

To navigate the competitive and regulated internship landscape in North Dakota, PsyD students employ a variety of strategies and resources aimed at securing appropriate placements that comply with state and national standards.

Key approaches to internship placement include:

• University Career Services and Departmental Support: Campus-based programs typically provide dedicated offices that help students identify suitable internships, assist with application materials, and offer interview preparation support. This institutional backing enhances students' ability to access both local and national APA-accredited opportunities.
• Affiliation Agreements with Clinical Sites: Many programs maintain formal partnerships with hospitals, mental health agencies, and governmental organizations, ensuring students have direct pathways to internships meeting North Dakota's supervised hour requirements and licensure criteria.
• APPIC and APA Online Directories: National databases serve as crucial tools for all students-including those in online and hybrid programs-enabling them to locate accredited internships, evaluate program offerings, and submit applications efficiently.
• State Licensing Board Guidance: The North Dakota licensing board provides regulatory clarity about required clinical hours and internship approvals, which assists students in verifying that their placements meet professional standards.
• Networking and Professional Associations: Membership in local and national psychology groups offers access to mentorship, peer support, and exclusive internship leads, which is particularly valuable for students lacking direct campus connections.
• Virtual and Hybrid Internship Models: Remote supervision options allow students in rural or nontraditional settings to fulfill internship requirements with board-approved telesupervision, expanding internship accessibility beyond geographical constraints.
• Faculty and Peer Referrals: Informal networks often reveal less visible but reputable internship options, leveraging experienced faculty and peers to guide students toward quality training sites.
• Application Preparation Workshops: Workshops tailored to PsyD internship applications cover topics like CV writing and interviewing skills, improving candidates' competitiveness regardless of their program format.

When asked about her experience securing an internship, a psychologist from North Dakota reflected on the complexities she faced as an on-campus student. She described feeling overwhelmed initially by the sheer number of requirements and sought guidance from faculty mentors who helped clarify the state's expectations. "The university's connections were invaluable," she recalled, "but I still had to be proactive in applying broadly and preparing thoroughly for interviews."

She noted the emotional challenge of balancing internship applications with coursework, emphasizing how the process fostered resilience and professional growth. Her experience also highlighted the importance of networking events hosted by the program, which provided informal insights into internship site cultures and expectations. In her words, "Finding the right internship wasn't just about ticking boxes-it was a critical step in shaping how I envisioned my future practice."

What are the pros and cons of online and campus PsyD programs in North Dakota?

Both online and campus-based PsyD programs in North Dakota present distinct advantages and challenges for students pursuing APA-accredited doctoral training. Understanding these differences helps applicants select the format that best suits their personal circumstances, academic goals, and scheduling needs.

Pros and Cons of Online PsyD Programs in North Dakota

• Flexible Scheduling: Online programs typically offer asynchronous coursework, enabling students to balance study with work or family responsibilities more effectively.
• Increased Accessibility: Learners in rural or remote areas can pursue high-quality education without relocation or long commutes, expanding access to doctoral training.
• Cost Efficiency: Lower tuition rates and savings on housing and transportation often make online study more affordable, though financial aid options may differ.
• No Entry Exams Required: Many programs waive GRE or similar exam requirements, which can reduce entry barriers for non-traditional applicants.
• Specialized Tracks: Some online programs provide unique specializations, such as Applied Behavior Analysis, catering to specific professional goals.
• Limited In-Person Interaction: The lack of face-to-face mentorship and peer networking can hinder relationship-building, critical to clinical competence and professional growth.
• Challenges in Hands-On Training: Supervised practicum and internships integral to clinical psychology are difficult to fully replicate virtually, potentially affecting practical skill development.
• Accreditation Vigilance: Not all online PsyD programs hold APA accreditation, so verifying credentials is essential to ensure licensure eligibility.
• Self-Motivation Required: Success demands a high degree of personal discipline and time management, given the independent nature of online learning.

Pros and Cons of Campus-Based PsyD Programs in North Dakota

• Direct Faculty Engagement: Small class sizes and mentorship opportunities, such as those offered by projects like INPSYDE at UND, enhance personalized learning and support underrepresented students.
• Robust Clinical Training: On-campus programs provide extensive hands-on practicum, research opportunities, and access to clinical facilities vital for applied training.
• Professional Networking: Face-to-face interactions foster valuable connections with peers and faculty that can lead to collaborative research and career advancement.
• APA Accreditation Assurance: Established programs at institutions like UND and NDSU maintain APA accreditation, assuring compliance with licensure standards.
• Geographic Limitations: Requirements to attend in person may impose relocation or commute burdens, potentially restricting accessibility for some students.
• Less Flexible Scheduling: Fixed class times and semester schedules can be challenging for students managing employment or family obligations.
• Higher Overall Costs: Tuition and living expenses associated with campus attendance are generally higher than online alternatives, impacting affordability considerations and often prompting students to compare these expenses with factors like ABA certification cost when planning their education.

What jobs can you get with a PsyD in North Dakota?

A PsyD prepares graduates for clinical, counseling, and assessment-focused careers across traditional and emerging practice settings by providing rigorous training in psychological evaluation, psychotherapy, and evidence-based interventions. APA-accredited PsyD programs in North Dakota-whether online or on-campus-equip students with the supervised clinical competencies essential for licensure and advanced professional roles.

• Licensed Clinical Psychologist: These professionals diagnose and treat mental health disorders in diverse settings such as clinics, hospitals, private practices, or telehealth platforms. Demand is especially high in North Dakota's rural areas, where telepsychology helps bridge care gaps.
• School Psychologist: Working within K-12 schools, school psychologists provide assessments, counseling, and crisis intervention services. The state's shortage of mental health specialists in education makes this a vital role, supported by online training programs.
• Health Service Psychologist: Employed in integrated health settings like hospitals and community health centers, these psychologists address behavioral medicine and health psychology needs as part of interdisciplinary care teams.
• Forensic Psychologist: They conduct psychological evaluations for legal cases, consult with law enforcement, and provide expert testimony in courts, applying specialized skills in assessment and ethics.
• Program Administrator or Clinical Supervisor: PsyD graduates often lead mental health initiatives, supervise clinical staff, or manage behavioral health programs within agencies, hospitals, or state organizations, leveraging their expertise in leadership and program evaluation.

For those seeking further specialization, exploring the best PhD in applied behavior analysis program can complement a PsyD by expanding opportunities in behavioral interventions and research-driven practice.

What is the average salary of PsyD graduates in North Dakota?

PsyD-trained psychologists in North Dakota typically earn between $98,200 and $132,000 annually, with clinical and counseling psychologists averaging from $109,000 to $128,700. Notably, available data do not reveal significant salary differences between graduates of online or traditional APA-accredited programs, provided they lead to licensure.

National benchmarks from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and APA workforce reports suggest these salaries are competitive, often aligning with or slightly exceeding the U.S. median of $106,600 to $116,000 for psychologists.

• Licensure and Accreditation: Full licensure through an APA-accredited program is essential for higher-paying roles and broader job opportunities.
• Experience: Salaries increase steadily with years of practice, with mid-career professionals often surpassing $140,000.
• Specialization and Setting: Fields like neuropsychology or private practice tend to command premium salaries over academic or government roles.
• Employer Type: Healthcare organizations and private practices usually offer higher compensation compared to education or governmental employers.
• Regional Demand: Rural areas may provide incentives, reflecting the state's ongoing need for mental health services.

Those comparing career paths might also consider the LBA vs BCBA key differences, as understanding credentials can impact employability and compensation in mental health professions.

What APA Accredited PsyD Graduates in North Dakota Say About Their Degree

• Completing my PsyD online through Capella University's APA-accredited program was a transformative experience. The flexibility to study while living in rural North Dakota allowed me to balance family commitments with academic rigor. Starting my career in a local school, I found the training prepared me to handle the unique challenges students face in this region, particularly with mental health stigma and limited resources. The sense of community and real-world applicability made this journey deeply rewarding. It has truly fueled my passion for fostering resilience and well-being in young people. Jana
• The traditional PsyD program at the University of North Dakota gave me a thorough foundation in clinical practice while enriching my understanding of the state's cultural landscape. Working in an educational setting post-graduation, I've been able to apply evidence-based interventions with sensitivity to the rural context and Native communities nearby. This training has not only enhanced my professional skills but also nurtured personal growth, allowing me to contribute positively to the mental health of students across diverse backgrounds. The stability and networking opportunities of staying local have been true career assets. Addie
• Pursuing my PsyD online through the APA-accredited program at Walden University opened doors I hadn't imagined before. Living in North Dakota made it challenging to access advanced clinical education traditionally, but this program bridged that gap entirely. Beyond the academic knowledge, the program emphasized developmental psychology and community impact, which has been essential when working in schools here. I appreciate how it prepared me for professional advancement while encouraging a compassionate approach to the particular mental health dynamics in this region. The experience has been both empowering and inspiring. Raj

References:

• Fascinating Discussion of PsyD vs PhD and other Online Issues https://www.degreeinfo.com/index.php
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology with Health Emphasis https://shs.touro.edu/programs/doctor-of-psychology/
• Accredited North Dakota Internship Programs in Psychology https://www.psychologycareercenter.org/north-dakota-psychology-internships.html
• APA Accredited Hybrid PsyD Degree Programs - Counseling Degrees Online https://www.counselingdegreesonline.org/apa-accredited-hybrid-psyd-programs
• Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) Program | National University https://www.nu.edu/degrees/jfk-psychology/programs/doctor-of-clinical-psychology/
• North Dakota Psychology Licensure Guide https://www.remnantcounselorcollective.com/resources/84362/north-dakota-psychology-licensure-guide
• Medical Psychologist Salary in North Dakota, United States (2025) - ERI SalaryExpert https://www.salaryexpert.com/salary/job/medical-psychologist/united-states/north-dakota
• The job search https://www.apa.org/education-career/job-search
• North Dakota Psychology Licensure Requirements https://www.psychologydegree411.com/licensure/north-dakota/
• Best Clinical Psychology Programs In North Dakota - EPPP 101 https://eppp101.com/best-clinical-psychology-programs-in-north-dakota/

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