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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Identifying the best PsyD programs in Virginia requires evaluating clinical orientation, accreditation, and training infrastructure, especially as over 15% of the state’s population experiences mental health issues annually. Selecting the right APA-accredited online or campus program ensures rigorous preparation for assessment, intervention, and applied research careers in psychology.

In this article, I will outline what prospective students can expect from Virginia’s PsyD offerings, including program formats, specialization options, supervision quality, and practicum placements. I will also show how to evaluate curriculum rigor, licensure alignment, tuition considerations, and long-term career outcomes to make an informed decision.

Key Benefits of APA Accredited PsyD Programs in Virginia

• Online APA-accredited PsyD programs offer flexibility, allowing students to balance clinical training with personal and professional responsibilities, which is crucial for the 75% of working adults seeking graduate education.
• These programs often integrate cutting-edge digital resources and virtual practicum opportunities, providing access to a diverse range of supervision and clinical experiences across Virginia's varied communities.
• Campus-based programs foster immersive, face-to-face mentorship and hands-on clinical practice, which enhances the development of nuanced interpersonal skills essential for effective psychological treatment.

Table of Contents

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

How many APA accredited PsyD programs are available in Virginia?

Virginia currently has two APA-accredited PsyD programs, both of which are campus-based with no fully online or hybrid options available as of 2025. Regent University offers a PsyD in Clinical Psychology emphasizing scientific, professional, and ethical training, while James Madison University provides a PsyD in Clinical and School Psychology known for its accelerated format.

The APA accreditation process involves a thorough review of curriculum quality, faculty expertise, clinical training, and institutional resources to ensure programs prepare graduates for professional practice. This accreditation is critical because it is required for psychologist licensure in Virginia and widely recognized by employers and internship programs, ensuring graduates have both credibility and flexibility in their careers.

For those seeking alternatives beyond PsyD programs, Virginia also offers APA-accredited Clinical Psychology PhD programs at the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, and the soon-to-be independently accredited Old Dominion University.

Recent trends in Virginia's doctoral psychology education reveal a growing demand for licensed psychologists, aligned with a national 7% employment growth projection through 2033. Despite increasing online psychology education nationally, Virginia's PsyD programs remain campus-focused due to strict APA clinical practicum requirements. Meanwhile, accreditation landscapes are shifting;

Old Dominion University plans a site visit in 2026 to gain independent APA accreditation for its Clinical Psychology PhD program, signaling potential expansion in doctoral options. These developments suggest that while on-campus training remains essential, the field is evolving to meet future professional and educational needs.

What are the best APA accredited PsyD programs in Virginia?

Top APA-accredited PsyD programs in Virginia distinguish themselves through expert faculty, robust clinical training partnerships, research opportunities, and strong student outcomes. Accreditation assures students that the program adheres to national standards necessary for licensure preparation and professional competence.

• James Madison University (JMU): Offers an accelerated, APA-accredited PsyD in Clinical and School Psychology, emphasizing hands-on training with a three-year coursework model plus a one-year internship; in-state tuition is $573 per credit.
• Regent University: Features an APA-accredited Clinical Psychology PsyD with integrative training and diverse electives like child and forensic psychology, tailored to meet licensure requirements and national internship readiness.
• Western Carolina University (NC): Provides a three-year, full-time APA-accredited program fully in-person, representing a regional option with strong clinical experiences.
• George Washington University (DC): Offers an accelerated APA-accredited PsyD with some flexible coursework delivery but requires in-person clinical training, balancing accessibility with rigor.
• Duquesne University (PA): Allows transfer credits within its APA-accredited program and offers hybrid coursework options while maintaining in-person clinical requirements.

Virginia's strong psychology job outlook encourages prospective students to examine these programs carefully, as all emphasize the essential in-person clinical components. For those aiming toward behavioral psychology jobs, understanding program structures-especially clinical training key to success in this field.

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

Applicants best suited for on-campus APA-accredited PsyD programs in Virginia typically include recent psychology graduates and career changers focused on clinical licensure. These students often prefer environments that offer direct mentorship from faculty and opportunities for rich collaboration with peers.

Hands-on clinical experiences and the structure of in-person practicum play a vital role in their training, ensuring they meet the rigor of APA-accredited program standards. Such candidates usually value immersive learning settings where they can engage closely with supervisors and develop skills through face-to-face interactions. Their dedication to obtaining supervised clinical hours reflects their commitment to becoming competent practitioners.

Conversely, online or hybrid APA-accredited PsyD programs attract individuals balancing work, family responsibilities, or residing far from Virginia's accredited institutions. These students need flexible schedules and the ability to pursue doctoral studies while managing other obligations.

Successful online candidates demonstrate strong self-motivation and independent learning skills, as the format demands high discipline alongside virtual coursework. However, even in these flexible programs, meeting the requirements to become a BCBA underscores the necessity of substantial in-person clinical training. This balance ensures that online PsyD graduates uphold the same professional standards expected by the APA.

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

APA-accredited PsyD programs in Virginia uphold strict academic and professional standards to ensure students are thoroughly prepared for doctoral-level clinical psychology training. Meeting these requirements is essential for success in both online and campus-based PsyD programs offered within the state.

• Educational Background: Applicants need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, usually in psychology or a related behavioral science field; others must show foundational psychology coursework.
• Minimum GPA: A competitive GPA is critical, with programs like Regent University expecting at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and an average of 3.57 for admitted students; graduate coursework typically requires a 3.5 GPA.
• Prerequisite Coursework: At least 18 semester hours in psychology, including general psychology, abnormal psychology or psychopathology, and research methods or statistics, are required before or shortly after admission.
• Relevant Experience: Significant research, clinical, or volunteer experience in mental health settings strengthens applications and readiness for advanced training.
• Standardized Tests: GRE requirements vary; applicants should confirm current policies as many programs have moved away from mandatory tests.
• Letters of Recommendation: Generally, three letters are needed, ideally from academic or professional supervisors familiar with the applicant's capabilities.
• Personal Statement: A well-crafted statement outlining motivation, experiences, professional goals, and alignment with program values is essential.
• Interview or Assessment: Finalists usually participate in interviews assessing interpersonal skills, ethics, and program fit.

This rigorous process ensures graduates meet licensure standards and the clinical competency expected nationally. For those considering related fields, understanding the applied behavior analysis degree benefits may also prove valuable in shaping one's professional journey.

What PsyD specializations are available in Virginia?

Choosing a PsyD specialization is a critical step to ensure that your educational path aligns closely with your professional goals and personal interests. The right specialization shapes not only your coursework but also the clinical experiences that prepare you for your future role in psychology. In Virginia, several common specializations stand out, each designed to develop specific skills and open doors to particular career settings.

Some of the notable PsyD specializations offered in Virginia include:

• Clinical Psychology: Focuses on diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through evidence-based methods. Training involves extensive clinical hours and prepares graduates for licensure and work in hospitals, private practice, and community health centers.
• Child and Adolescent Psychology: Concentrates on developmental issues, cognitive assessments, and interventions tailored to younger populations. Graduates often work in schools, pediatric clinics, and youth services, developing skills to address trauma and behavioral challenges.
• School Psychology: Combines clinical training with educational expertise, preparing practitioners to support learning disabilities and mental health in school environments as well as traditional clinical settings.
• Counseling Psychology: Emphasizes rural mental health, cultural diversity, and social justice. Graduates focus on psychotherapy and outreach in underserved communities, gaining skills in multicultural competence and advocacy.
• Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine: Explores the relationship between psychological processes and physical health, with applications in chronic illness management and integrated care teams.
• Marriage and Family Therapy: Develops systemic intervention skills for couples and families, preparing students for work in private practices and community therapy centers.
• Forensic Psychology and Consulting: Offers expertise in legal and organizational assessment, often including court evaluations and expert testimony.

Most of these programs in Virginia are campus-based with rigorous in-person clinical training and practicum requirements, reflecting the emphasis on hands-on experience. While fully online APA-accredited PsyD programs are not currently available in the state, some hybrid or elective coursework options exist, offering a degree of flexibility.

When I spoke with a psychologist from Virginia who completed an online PsyD program, he reflected on his careful decision-making process concerning specialization. Initially uncertain about which path to commit to, he weighed the benefits of several options, especially given the limited availability of online specializations in Virginia. The challenge was balancing the desire for flexibility with the need for practical, supervised clinical experience.

He shared, "Choosing a specialization felt like defining my professional identity-it wasn't just about coursework, but the kind of impact I wanted to make." Through conversations with mentors and exploring elective opportunities, he ultimately gravitated toward a specialization that matched both his interests and the community needs he wanted to serve.

He described the experience as "transformative," noting that the hybrid elements allowed him to maintain his personal responsibilities while still gaining crucial face-to-face training. His journey underscores the thoughtful reflection and adaptability needed when navigating PsyD specialization choices in Virginia.

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

The curriculum in APA-accredited PsyD programs in Virginia is thoughtfully designed to build vital clinical, research, and ethical skills essential for licensure and effective practice. These programs blend rigorous coursework and supervised clinical training to prepare students for diverse real-world settings. Below are core courses commonly included across these doctoral programs, highlighting their focus and professional relevance.

• Behavioral Psychology: Focuses on observable behaviors with emphasis on intervention planning and outcome evaluation, essential for treating behavioral disorders in clinical settings.
• Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis: Teaches administration of standardized tests and diagnostic interviewing, developing skills in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Research Methods and Statistics: Covers research design and data analysis, fostering evidence-based practice and continual clinical improvement.
• Ethics in Psychology: Addresses ethical decision-making and legal standards to ensure responsible practice and client welfare.
• Practicum and Internship: Provides supervised, hands-on experience; campus-based programs require extensive in-person clinical hours for licensure readiness.

How do PsyD students find internships in Virginia?

Clinical internships are a foundational element in APA-accredited PsyD programs, shaping both licensure eligibility and essential clinical skills. These supervised training experiences mark the transition from academic learning to real-world practice, preparing students thoroughly for independent psychology careers.

To navigate the competitive and complex landscape of Virginia internships, PsyD students access a range of strategies and resources tailored to varied learning formats and professional goals.

Key pathways students use to secure internships in Virginia include:

• APPIC Match Process: Through the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers, students engage in a national match system that standardizes application procedures and access to APA-accredited sites. This process ensures fairness and clarity, crucial for both on-campus and online learners seeking placements within Virginia's clinical settings.
• University Placement Support: Many Virginia PsyD programs provide dedicated staff who assist students with identifying suitable internships, managing deadlines, and preparing for interviews. Online and hybrid students increasingly benefit from virtual advising and webinars, bridging gaps in access to institutional guidance.
• Regional Internship Consortia: Collaborative groups like the Mid Atlantic Internship Consortium expand opportunities by pooling resources and coordinating placements across nearby states. Such consortia help students find diverse clinical settings and handle regional shortages more effectively.
• Hospital and Health System Programs: Established internship sites in hospitals and VA Medical Centers offer structured rotations that fulfill licensure criteria while providing stipends and benefits. These settings attract students willing to relocate temporarily for immersive clinical experiences.
• Online Career Platforms: Job boards and portals connected to universities enable students to explore internship openings-including remote or hybrid-by specialization and location, making the search process more efficient and targeted.
• Professional Networking: Building relationships through state psychological associations, conferences, and faculty connections often uncovers internship leads beyond formal listings. This proactive networking is especially valuable for remote students lacking local contacts.
• Urban Center Focus: Concentrating efforts in Virginia's cities with high numbers of mental health facilities, such as Richmond and Fairfax, increases chances of securing diverse and accredited placements that suit varied training needs.

Reflecting on these approaches, a psychologist from Virginia shared her experience completing an on-campus PsyD program. She recalled the challenge of balancing intense coursework with the daunting APPIC match timeline and the uncertainty of competitive selection.

"Having a placement coordinator who understood the process was invaluable," she noted, emphasizing how personalized support helped her craft stronger applications and prepare for interviews confidently. Despite occasional anxieties about finding a fitting site, she found that networking at state conferences opened unexpected doors and referrals.

The experience taught her resilience and the importance of combining structured application systems with proactive relationship-building, enabling a smoother transition into advanced clinical training and eventual licensure.

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

Both online and campus PsyD programs in Virginia provide distinct benefits and challenges for students aiming to complete APA-accredited doctoral training. Gaining clarity on these differences is essential for applicants to select the format that aligns best with their personal commitments, learning preferences, and professional goals.

Online PsyD Programs in Virginia: Pros and Cons

• Flexibility for working professionals: Online programs enable students to progress through coursework from any location, making it viable to balance doctoral studies with jobs or family duties.
• Equivalent academic rigor: Accredited online programs maintain the same high academic standards as traditional campus offerings, ensuring quality education and licensure readiness.
• Greater accessibility: Institutions like Regent and Liberty Universities provide programs with strong internship match rates and accessibility for remote learners worldwide.
• In-person clinical training required: Despite remote coursework, students must attend in-person practica and internships, necessitating travel and coordination.
• Demanding self-discipline: Successful online students must possess strong time management skills and motivation to navigate less structured learning environments.
• Complex clinical hours logistics: Balancing online course demands with the required 2,000-3,000 clinical hours presents practical challenges for maintaining steady progress.

Campus-Based PsyD Programs in Virginia: Pros and Cons

• Integrated clinical training: On-campus formats facilitate coordinated clinical experiences alongside coursework, often streamlining clinical hour accumulation.
• Robust networking opportunities: Physical presence fosters meaningful peer relationships, faculty mentorship, and access to events like Radford's Psychology and Gender Symposium.
• Structured support systems: Campus environments provide comprehensive student services and collaborative learning, supporting academic and personal growth.
• Limited schedule flexibility: Full-time attendance can constrain options for those working or juggling significant personal responsibilities.
• Geographic and financial demands: Commuting or relocating to campus may add costs and lifestyle disruptions, requiring careful consideration.

What jobs can you get with a PsyD in Virginia?

A PsyD degree prepares graduates for clinical, counseling, and assessment-focused careers by developing advanced skills in psychotherapy and psychological evaluation. APA-accredited PsyD programs in Virginia, whether delivered online or on campus, provide the rigorous clinical training and ethical foundation required for licensure and leadership roles in diverse mental health settings.

• Clinical Psychologist: These professionals deliver psychotherapy, psychological testing, and treatment planning across hospitals, outpatient clinics, and private practices. Virginia's strong demand includes roles in the Veterans Affairs system, where telehealth services address PTSD and trauma-related conditions.
• Counseling Psychologist: They focus on mental health support and counseling in environments such as university centers and employee assistance programs. Utilizing evidence-based therapies, they help clients navigate life stressors and transitions effectively.
• School Psychologist: Working in educational settings, these experts assess and support students with emotional and behavioral challenges. They collaborate closely with educators and parents to implement intervention strategies that promote student success.
• Forensic Psychologist: Applying psychological expertise within legal contexts, forensic psychologists conduct court evaluations and provide expert testimony. Their work demands strong assessment skills and adherence to ethical standards honed in APA-accredited curricula.
• Healthcare Administrator or Clinical Director: These leaders manage mental health programs and supervise clinical teams in hospitals and government agencies. PsyD training equips them to influence policy and improve care quality in complex systems, including the VA.

Those interested in specialized doctoral-level psychology training may also explore the list of the best ABA PhD programs, which highlights options complementing the clinical focus of PsyD pathways.

What is the average salary of PsyD graduates in Virginia?

PsyD-trained psychologists in Virginia earn between $91,500 and $153,000 annually, with clinical and counseling psychologists averaging around $94,000 to $98,000. Data shows no significant salary differences between graduates of online and traditional APA-accredited programs, as long as licensure requirements are met.

Compared to the national median salary of $85,330 reported by the BLS and $95,830 median clinical psychologist wage noted by the APA, Virginia offers competitive earnings, reflecting strong demand for qualified mental health professionals.

Key Factors Influencing PsyD Salary Levels in Virginia:

• Licensure Status: Fully licensed psychologists with completed supervised experience and successful EPPP exam performance earn considerably more than those with provisional or no licensure.
• Years of Experience: Entry-level salaries start at $50,000-$70,000, mid-career practitioners earn $80,000-$100,000, and seasoned professionals can surpass $130,000 annually.
• Specialization: Clinical, forensic, and neuropsychologists command higher wages, sometimes reaching $152,000, due to specific expertise and demand.
• Employer Type: Private sector, hospitals, and government roles typically offer greater compensation than academic or school environments.
• Regional Demand and Location: Urban centers like Richmond provide higher salaries, while rural areas may offer incentives to address psychologist shortages.

Graduates aiming to enhance their credentials might also explore the best rated online masters in ABA programs to complement their PsyD training and widen their career opportunities.

What APA Accredited PsyD Graduates in Virginia Say About Their Degree

• Pursuing my PsyD through an APA-accredited online program at George Mason University was a transformative experience. Balancing work and study was manageable, allowing me to immediately apply theoretical knowledge to my role in a local school. The flexibility of the program empowered me to grow both professionally and personally while staying connected to Virginia's diverse community needs. The support from faculty and peers was exceptional, fostering a passion for nurturing the mental health of young learners. This journey truly prepared me to make a meaningful impact in educational settings. Mia
• Completing an APA-accredited online PsyD at Norfolk State University opened doors I hadn't anticipated. Starting my career in a local educational institution gave me a profound sense of purpose, especially as I witnessed firsthand the unique challenges students face within Virginia's cultural landscape. The program's emphasis on culturally responsive practices equipped me with tools to advocate effectively for marginalized populations. Reflecting on my growth, I see how this path catalyzed not only my professional development but also deepened my commitment to community well-being. Aida
• Graduating from an APA-accredited traditional PsyD program at the University of Virginia allowed me to fully immerse myself in the rigorous academic and clinical environment the state offers. Starting work in a local school after graduation gave me a stable foundation to advance my career while contributing to the well-being of young people in my community. The opportunity to engage with Virginia's diverse populations and resources enhanced my understanding of regional mental health needs. Professionally, the intensive in-person training strengthened my confidence and skill set, helping me thrive in an educational setting. Mickey

References:

• The job search https://www.apa.org/education-career/job-search
• Getting an Online PhD in Counseling Psychology | All Psychology Schools https://www.allpsychologyschools.com/online-degrees/clinical-psychology/
• PsyD Practicums and Internships - Chestnut Hill College https://www.chc.edu/academics/academic-centers/center-for-professional-psychology/psyd-practicums-and-internships/
• Doctoral Internship https://ucc.vt.edu/training/doctoral_internship.html
• PsyD Salary Guide 2025: Earnings by Specialization ($67K-$169K) https://psydprograms.org/salary-outlook-psyd-degree/
• APA-Accredited Programs https://accreditation.apa.org/accredited-programs
• VA Practicum and Influence on Obtaining APA Internships at VA hospitals | Student Doctor Network https://forums.studentdoctor.net/threads/va-practicum-and-influence-on-obtaining-apa-internships-at-va-hospitals.810044/
• Mentorship - Faculty Affairs & Development https://med.virginia.edu/faculty-affairs/development/mentoring-program/
• APA Accredited Hybrid PsyD Degree Programs - Counseling Degrees Online https://www.counselingdegreesonline.org/apa-accredited-hybrid-psyd-programs
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology with Health Emphasis https://shs.touro.edu/programs/doctor-of-psychology/

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