2026 Best PsyD Programs in Vermont: APA Accredited Online & Campus

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Selecting a PsyD program in Vermont requires evaluating training quality, accreditation, and supervised clinical opportunities, especially as the state faces a growing demand for qualified clinical psychologists, with mental health issues rising by over 15% in recent years. APA-accredited online or campus programs prepare students for diverse PsyD career paths.

In this article, I will provide a structured overview of Vermont’s available PsyD routes, highlighting distinctions between campus and online formats, clinical training access, and specialization opportunities. I will also offer clarity on admissions expectations, practicum requirements, program strengths, and key comparison factors needed to identify the most suitable APA-accredited path toward professional practice.

Key Benefits of APA Accredited PsyD Programs in Vermont

• Online APA-accredited PsyD programs offer unmatched flexibility, allowing students to balance studies with work and personal commitments while accessing expert faculty nationwide.
• These programs often feature cutting-edge digital resources and virtual simulations, enhancing clinical skills development comparable to in-person training.
• On-campus APA-accredited PsyD programs provide hands-on clinical experiences through Vermont's rich network of local mental health facilities, fostering deeper community connections and practical learning.

Table of Contents

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

How many APA accredited PsyD programs are available in Vermont?

There are currently no APA-accredited PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) programs available in Vermont, either on-campus or online. The American Psychological Association (APA) grants accreditation only after a rigorous process that includes self-study, site visits, and continuous evaluation to ensure high standards in curriculum, faculty, and clinical training. This accreditation is crucial because it often determines eligibility for licensure, internships, and employment in clinical and academic settings, signaling professional quality and credibility.

While Vermont lacks APA-accredited PsyD programs, aspiring students can consider the PhD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Vermont, which has held APA accreditation since 1973, or explore PsyD programs in neighboring states such as Springfield College in Massachusetts, Antioch University New England in New Hampshire, and Alfred University in New York. California Southern University also offers a fully online PsyD program, which is WASC-accredited but not APA-accredited, so students should carefully evaluate licensure compatibility for Vermont requirements.

Vermont is witnessing a growing demand for clinical psychologists, especially in underserved rural areas, which encourages expansion in psychology education pathways. Although there are no fully APA-accredited online PsyD programs, the availability of hybrid and distance learning options is increasing, offering more flexible choices for students.

The University of Vermont's PhD program remains the sole APA-accredited doctoral psychology program in the state, with no current new PsyD accreditations underway. These trends suggest promising opportunities ahead as students balance education options with professional licensure needs and the evolving mental health landscape.

What are the best APA accredited PsyD programs in Vermont?

Students seeking the best APA-accredited PsyD programs should weigh key factors like faculty expertise, research opportunities, clinical training partnerships, and student outcomes. APA accreditation guarantees that a program meets national standards for curriculum excellence and licensure preparation, crucial for Vermont's psychologist licensure.

Though Vermont itself offers one APA-accredited clinical psychology PhD program, several outstanding PsyD options are available through nearby campuses or flexible online and hybrid formats often selected by Vermont residents:

• Antioch University New England - PsyD in Clinical Psychology: Located in Keene, NH, just near Vermont, this APA-accredited program lasts five years full-time and offers a strong clinical focus with high internship match rates.
• University of Vermont (UVM) - Clinical Psychology PhD: While not a PsyD, Vermont's premier APA-accredited clinical psychology program features a small cohort with 93% licensure passage and 100% internship matching over five years.
• Widener University - PsyD in Clinical Psychology: A hybrid program blending online coursework with campus intensives, Widener supports working professionals with integrated clinical training.
• Regent University - PsyD in Clinical Psychology: Primarily online with some in-person components, this APA-accredited program is accessible and designed for licensure success.
• Rutgers University - PsyD in Clinical Psychology: Offering a hybrid format, Rutgers is recognized for evidence-based training and competitive internship placements.

Exploring these options alongside Vermont's licensure requirements, including practicum and internship hours, can guide students toward the best path, balancing flexibility and quality education. Those interested in understanding broader career prospects might also consider the ABA vs BCBA salary comparison by state to inform their long-term goals.

Who is eligible to apply to APA accredited PsyD programs in Vermont?

Applicants drawn to campus-based APA-accredited PsyD programs in Vermont often include recent psychology graduates eager to deepen their clinical expertise, as well as career changers pursuing licensure to enhance their professional impact. These students thrive in immersive environments where direct mentorship from faculty and collaboration with peers enrich their learning experience.

They value hands-on clinical training that prepares them for real-world challenges in mental health settings. Many are motivated by a desire to engage in applied research and leadership roles, benefiting from the structured guidance such programs provide. For those wondering how can I start as a behavior therapist, these programs offer a solid foundation built on intensive supervised practicum opportunities and vibrant academic communities.

Online and hybrid PsyD programs appeal to students who seek greater flexibility due to work commitments, family responsibilities, or geographic distance from campus. These programs maintain rigorous APA standards while allowing learners to balance studies with their daily lives through asynchronous coursework and self-directed study. They are ideal for professionals aiming to advance their credentials without pausing their careers or relocating.

By offering accessible pathways to licensure, these programs open doors for motivated individuals who require adaptable scheduling but still want comprehensive clinical preparation. This inclusive approach ensures that a diverse range of future psychologists can move forward confidently on their career paths.

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

APA-accredited PsyD programs in Vermont have specific academic and professional requirements designed to prepare students for advanced clinical psychology training. Meeting these requirements ensures applicants are well-prepared for the demands of both on-campus and online PsyD programs in Vermont.

• Educational Background: A bachelor's degree, preferably with substantial psychology coursework such as research methods and abnormal psychology, is required. Strong foundational knowledge supports success in rigorous doctoral studies.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs expect a minimum 3.5 GPA; competitive applicants often exceed this with around a 3.8 GPA.
• Relevant Experience: Research experience, clinical exposure, or roles in psychology settings greatly enhance applications.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Completion of core psychology courses, including graduate-level work in assessment and psychotherapy, is typically necessary.
• Standardized Tests: GRE scores may be required or optional, depending on the institution, so checking current policies is important.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from academic or professional references are usually required to highlight readiness for doctoral work.
• Personal Statement: A compelling statement demonstrating alignment with clinical goals and faculty research is essential.
• Interview or Assessment: Candidates often undergo an interview to assess interpersonal skills and professional fit.

Prospective students interested in how to advance in behavioral fields may also find helpful information on what is the best BCBA degree program.

What PsyD specializations are available in Vermont?

Choosing a PsyD specialization is a vital step toward aligning your education with your unique career goals and passions within psychology. Specializations allow you to develop targeted expertise that enhances your ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Below are some of the most common PsyD specializations accessible to students in Vermont, including both local and flexible online or hybrid options designed to meet diverse learning and professional needs.

• Clinical Psychology: Focused on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders across all ages, this specialization hones skills in evidence-based therapies, assessment, and clinical research. Graduates often pursue licensure and work in hospitals, community health centers, or private practice settings.
• Child and Adolescent Psychology: Emphasizing developmental and emotional issues in youth, this track prepares students to skillfully address behavioral challenges and collaborate with schools or healthcare providers. Core competencies include developmental assessment and family therapy.
• Health Psychology: Exploring the link between mind and body, this area equips students to support clients managing chronic illness and lifestyle changes through interdisciplinary teamwork and behavioral medicine approaches.
• Neuropsychology: Although less available locally, online programs offer training in brain-behavior relationships, cognitive assessment, and rehabilitation, preparing graduates for work in neurological centers or research.
• Substance Abuse and Addiction Psychology: Addressing pressing community needs, this specialization teaches diagnosis, relapse prevention, and community outreach to support recovery efforts in treatment centers and policy settings.
• Geriatric Psychology: Focused on mental health challenges in older adults, students build expertise in cognitive decline, grief counseling, and interdisciplinary care often used in hospice or long-term care environments.
• Telehealth and Rural Mental Health: Vital for Vermont's rural areas, this area develops skills in remote clinical services, ethical telepractice, and digital interventions to overcome geographic barriers to care.

A psychologist from Vermont shared their personal experience completing an online PsyD program, explaining the thoughtful exploration they undertook when choosing their specialization. "It was challenging to weigh my interests against Vermont's unique mental health landscape," he reflected. "I knew I wanted to contribute meaningfully, so I focused on telehealth because it combined my passion for technology and improving rural access."

He described how the online program's flexibility allowed him to engage deeply with this specialization while meeting Vermont's rigorous practicum requirements, a process that demanded resilience and precise planning. "Choosing the right path wasn't just about academics-it was about envisioning my future role in the community. That clarity kept me motivated through the demanding internship hours." His journey highlights how selecting a specialization is both a personal discovery and a professional commitment, uniquely shaped by Vermont's needs and the evolving field of psychology.

What courses are typically included in APA accredited PsyD programs in Vermont?

Coursework in APA-accredited PsyD programs builds vital clinical, research, and professional skills essential for effective practice and licensure. These programs offer a balanced curriculum that sharpens diagnostic abilities, ethical reasoning, and cultural competence, preparing students for diverse clinical settings and research contributions. Whether online or campus-based, students engage in core courses designed to develop comprehensive expertise.

Core and common courses include:

• Advanced Theories of Personality: Explores major personality theories and assessment techniques, helping students tailor treatments to individual client needs.
• Ethical and Professional Issues: Focuses on ethics, legal standards, and cultural sensitivity to ensure responsible practice and licensure compliance.
• Research Methods and Statistics: Develops skills in scientific inquiry and data analysis, supporting evidence-based clinical decisions.
• Practicum and Internship: Provides supervised clinical experience, crucial for real-world application and meeting Vermont's licensure requirements.

How do PsyD students find internships in Vermont?

Clinical internships are an essential pillar of APA-accredited PsyD programs, providing invaluable hands-on experience that is critical for licensure readiness and professional growth. These immersive training opportunities enable students to develop clinical skills, ethical judgment, and confidence while working in real-world settings.

To successfully navigate the competitive internship landscape in Vermont, PsyD students utilize various strategies and resources tailored to both online and on-campus pathways.

Key approaches to securing clinical internships in Vermont include:

• APPIC Match Programs: Most students enter the national internship match process managed by APPIC, which connects doctoral candidates with accredited clinical sites across Vermont. This structured system helps ensure placements meet rigorous APA standards, benefiting both campus-based and online PsyD students.
• University Placement Services: Institutions like the University of Vermont offer career support, internship coordinators, and student organizations that promote local clinical opportunities. These campus resources can provide inside knowledge and personalized guidance to strengthen applications.
• Remote and Hybrid Options: For those enrolled in online or hybrid PsyD programs, fully remote internships with licensed supervisors offer flexibility without compromising clinical rigor. Vermont-based organizations provide such placements, helping students balance personal commitments while gaining practical experience.
• Community and Professional Networks: Building relationships through local mental health agencies, volunteering, and professional associations opens doors to lesser-known internships focused on rural and underserved populations. Peer and faculty recommendations also prove invaluable in this close-knit professional environment.
• Direct Applications to Medical Centers: Applying directly to established sites like the University of Vermont Medical Center allows students access to integrated rotations and specialized clinical experiences essential for diverse training.

A psychologist from Vermont, whom I spoke with, reflected on her journey securing an internship during her on-campus PsyD training. She recalled the mix of excitement and pressure navigating the APPIC Match while balancing coursework and personal life. "It wasn't just about submitting applications; it was cultivating connections and learning to communicate my clinical interests clearly," she shared.

She appreciated the support from faculty and peers, but also emphasized the resilience required, "Each interview and every ranking felt like a step closer to my professional identity." Her experience underscored how perseverance, strategic networking, and using available resources made the daunting process rewarding and transformative.

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

Both online and campus-based PsyD programs in Vermont provide unique benefits and challenges for those seeking APA-accredited doctoral training. Understanding these distinctions empowers applicants to select the program format that best aligns with their professional ambitions, lifestyle, and learning preferences.

Pros and Cons of Online PsyD Programs in Vermont

• Flexibility for Working Adults: Online programs offer the freedom to complete coursework around personal and professional commitments, ideal for Vermont residents balancing jobs or family.
• Expanded Access: With limited in-state PsyD options, online formats open doors to diverse programs beyond Vermont, broadening educational opportunities.
• Remote Clinical Training Potential: Some online programs support supervised practicum experiences locally, allowing students to meet licensure requirements without relocation.
• Cost Savings on Relocation: Avoiding commuting and housing expenses helps students reduce financial burdens commonly associated with on-campus attendance.
• Limited APA Accreditation: Currently, no fully APA-accredited online PsyD programs are based in Vermont, which may affect licensure and career prospects.
• Reduced Cohort Engagement: The virtual format may limit face-to-face mentorship and networking, potentially impacting the collaborative experience valued in doctoral training.
• Local Clinical Placement Challenges: Finding high-quality practicum sites in Vermont can require extra resourcefulness and initiative from online learners.

Pros and Cons of Campus-Based PsyD Programs in Vermont

• Strong APA Accreditation and Licensure Support: Campus programs like the University of Vermont offer robust licensure pathways with high internship match rates, reinforcing career success.
• Rich Mentorship and Peer Interaction: On-campus cohorts foster close faculty relationships, peer collaboration, and professional networking that enhance academic growth.
• Integrated Clinical Training: Access to in-house clinics and partnered practicum sites streamlines supervised clinical experiences essential to PsyD training.
• Full Funding Opportunities: Some programs provide tuition remission and stipends, easing financial commitments and enabling focus on studies.
• Highly Competitive and Limited Options: The small number of APA-accredited campus programs in Vermont means admissions are selective, reducing choices for many applicants.
• Less Flexibility: Full-time, on-site attendance demands significant time and may challenge those balancing work or family duties.
• Relocation and Living Costs: Students often face additional expenses related to moving and living near campus, especially if from rural areas.

What jobs can you get with a PsyD in Vermont?

A PsyD degree prepares graduates with strong clinical, counseling, and assessment skills, ready for impactful roles in both traditional and emerging practice settings. APA-accredited PsyD programs in Vermont, whether online or campus-based, provide the clinical expertise necessary for licensure and advanced professional careers.

• Licensed Clinical Psychologist: These professionals offer psychotherapy, psychological testing, and diagnosis in private practice, hospitals, and community health centers. Vermont licensure requires an APA-accredited degree, supervised experience, and passing the EPPP.
• Counseling Psychologist or Behavioral Health Consultant: Working in schools, primary care, or social service agencies, they provide short-term interventions and develop behavioral programs. Flexible online and hybrid PsyD programs support professionals balancing work and education.
• Forensic or Correctional Psychologist: Specialists in this role work within the criminal justice system, performing evaluations and risk assessments for courts and correctional facilities. Vermont's growing community-based alternatives create rising demand for these experts.
• Health Psychologist or Integrated Care Specialist: Collaborating with medical teams, they help manage chronic illnesses and integrate psychological care in healthcare settings. Vermont's focus on integrated behavioral health expands opportunities in this field.
• Academic, Research, or Supervisory Roles: Some graduates teach or lead clinical training in colleges, driving research and educational excellence. Vermont institutions offer strong online and campus programs fostering leadership in psychology.

For those pursuing advanced psychology careers while managing other commitments, Vermont's flexible PsyD programs, along with resources such as the list of best online ABA degree programs, present excellent pathways to success.

What is the average salary of PsyD graduates in Vermont?

PsyD-trained psychologists in Vermont earn average annual salaries between $97,220 and $108,680, with clinical and counseling psychologists generally falling within this range. Research shows no significant salary difference between graduates of online and on-campus APA-accredited PsyD programs in Vermont, provided they meet state licensure requirements.

Nationally, the median salary for clinical and counseling psychologists sits at $106,600, placing Vermont just slightly below this benchmark but still competitive within New England.

Key Factors Influencing PsyD Salary Levels in Vermont:

• Licensure Status: Licensed psychologists earn higher salaries by practicing independently, requiring doctoral degrees, supervised experience, and passing exams.
• Years of Experience: Starting around $94,234, salaries increase with experience, surpassing $140,000 for seasoned professionals.
• Specialization: Fields like neuropsychology and forensic psychology often command salaries above $130,000.
• Employer Type: Private practice and healthcare systems pay more than educational or governmental roles.
• Regional Demand: Higher compensation correlates with areas needing more licensed mental health professionals.

For students exploring options, also consider related paths with promising outcomes, such as those highlighted in the ranking of affordable online BCBA programs.

What APA Accredited PsyD Graduates in Vermont Say About Their Degree

• Pursuing my PsyD through the APA-accredited online program at Fielding Graduate University allowed me to balance my work and studies while staying connected to Vermont's supportive community. Finishing locally gave me access to unique opportunities in school psychology within the state's diverse educational settings. Starting my career in a nearby school, I've been able to apply culturally responsive practices that resonate with Vermont's values. This journey deepened my passion for supporting children's mental health and fostering resilience in young learners. The flexibility and rigorous curriculum propelled my professional growth beyond my expectations. Joshua
• The University of the Rockies' online PsyD program gave me the flexibility I needed while living in Vermont, where I cherish the sense of community and natural surroundings. Studying remotely did not hinder my ability to start work in a local educational institution, where I now contribute to student well-being every day. Vermont's close-knit culture and emphasis on well-being made me reflect deeply on the role of psychologists as community advocates, not just clinicians. The program's structure, blending evidence-based practice with real-world challenges, equipped me for meaningful impact and ongoing career advancement. I'm grateful for how this experience shaped both my professional skills and personal growth. Angel
• Completing my PsyD at Vermont College of Fine Arts, one of Vermont's notable APA-accredited traditional programs, was an inspiring challenge enriched by the state's unique culture and environment. Studying close to home enhanced my understanding of local needs and motivated me to pursue a career in educational settings where I could directly support children and families. The rich professional development embedded in the program helped me build strong clinical skills and community partnerships vital to my work. Vermont's blend of rural and small urban communities provided meaningful contexts for growth and service. This educational path fostered a deep commitment to improving mental health access for young people and advancing my career with confidence. Angie

References:

• Psychology Doctoral Internship Program https://www.dartmouth-hitchcock.org/psychology-internship
• What Is a PsyD? | UAGC https://www.uagc.edu/blog/what-is-a-psyd
• PhD/PsyD - Challenges as Intern with ADHD | Student Doctor Network https://forums.studentdoctor.net/threads/challenges-as-intern-with-adhd.1427509/
• Clinical-Counseling Psychology Internships https://www.smcvt.edu/academics/graduate-programs/clinical-counseling-psychology/clinical-counseling-psychology-internships/
• The Online Graduate PhD Degree: Questions, Answers, and Case Analysis https://www.psichi.org/page/282Eye-The-Online-Graduate-PhD-Degree
• Staff Psychologist -Cancer Center https://uvmhealthnetworkcareers.org/job/10021/staff-psychologist-cancer-center-mental-health-us-vt-burlington-195-colchester-ave/
• Clinical Psychologist - Vermont Health Careers https://vthealthcareers.org/careers/mental-health-services/clinical-psychologist/
• Mentorship Program Helps Clinicians and Medical Students Find Community https://www.uvmhealth.org/the-beat/mentorship-program-helps-clinicians-and-medical-students-find-community
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Online Degree Program https://www.calsouthern.edu/online-degree-programs/behavioral-sciences/doctor-psychology-psyd/
• 2026 Best Psychology Programs in Vermont - Online & Affordable Options https://www.counselingpsychology.org/psychology/schools/vermont/

Other Things You Need to Know About The Best PsyD Programs in Vermont