How Long to Acquire a Psychology Degree?

The length of a psychology program depends on the type of degree.

Academic degrees in psychology require a minimum of two years to over seven years of study, depending on the degree type. Requirements for degrees in psychology vary depending on the specialty within the field a psychologist wishes to work, such as clinical or forensic psychology, and the position, such as psychology professor or counselor.

Types

Schools offer several types of psychology degree programs that vary in length, such as associate's of science (AOS), bachelor's (B.A.) and master's (M.A.). Postgraduate programs include doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) and doctor of psychology (Psy.D.).

Length

The length of study correlates with the type of degree. Associate's degrees typically require two years of study, and bachelor of arts programs last four years. A postgraduate degree, such as a master's, takes an additional two years of study after the successful completion of four years of undergraduate work. Doctoral programs require an additional four to six years of work after undergraduate studies.

Schools

Junior and community colleges offer two-year psychology programs culminating in the receipt of an associate's degree, and most four-year universities have bachelor's of art programs in psychology. Many colleges that offer four-year degrees also have postgraduate psychology programs.

References

• Social Psychology Network: Frequently Asked Career Questions
• Hanover College: Finding Careers with a Bachelor's Degree In Psychology
• Degree Directory: Psychology Associates Degree