Earning a PsyD no dissertation is an increasingly popular path for aspiring clinical psychologists who want to focus on applied practice rather than research. However, one of the most important questions for graduates is: Can you get licensed in the USA with a PsyD that does not require a dissertation?
The answer is yes but requirements vary by state. Licensing boards across the USA set standards for education, supervised clinical experience, and examinations. This guide provides a state-by-state breakdown, practical strategies for licensure, timelines, and cost considerations for those pursuing a PsyD no dissertation.
Understanding PsyD No Dissertation Licensure
What is a PsyD No Dissertation?
A PsyD no dissertation program allows students to earn a professional doctorate in psychology without completing a traditional research dissertation. Instead, students complete:
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Applied capstone projects
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Clinical portfolios
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Practicum and internship hours
Purpose: Prepare graduates for clinical practice while reducing program length and tuition costs.
Can You Become Licensed with a PsyD No Dissertation?
Most states in the USA allow licensure for PsyD graduates without a dissertation, provided the program is:
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APA-accredited or recognized by the state
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Includes sufficient clinical practicum and internship hours
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Prepares students for the EPPP (Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology) and other state-specific licensing requirements
Key Insight: The absence of a dissertation does not automatically prevent licensure, but students must verify accreditation and state-specific rules.
Licensure Requirements: General Overview
Across the USA, licensing boards typically require:
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Education Requirements
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Completion of a PsyD from an APA-accredited program or state-approved equivalent
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Minimum 60 graduate credit hours for most programs
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Supervised Clinical Experience
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Practicum: 1,500–2,000 hours
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Internship: 1-year full-time (approx. 1,750–2,000 hours)
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Examinations
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EPPP: Standardized national exam for licensure
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State-specific exams or jurisprudence tests in some states
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Application and Fees
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Application fees range from $200–$500
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Background checks and verification fees
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Postdoctoral Supervised Experience (if required)
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Some states require 1–2 years of postdoctoral supervised practice before independent licensure
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State-by-State Guide to PsyD No Dissertation Licensure
Below is a detailed state-by-state overview of licensure requirements for PsyD no dissertation graduates.
1. California
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Education: APA-accredited PsyD or equivalent
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Clinical Hours: 3,000 hours of supervised experience (pre- and postdoctoral combined)
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Exams: EPPP + California Psychology Law Exam
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Notes: Capstone programs accepted if clinical training meets board standards
2. New York
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Education: Doctoral degree in psychology, no dissertation required if program meets state standards
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Clinical Hours: 1,750 internship + 1,750 postdoctoral hours
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Exams: EPPP + NY State jurisprudence exam
3. Texas
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Education: APA-accredited or board-approved doctoral degree
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Clinical Hours: 3,500 supervised postdoctoral hours (including predoctoral internship)
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Exams: EPPP + Texas Psychology Jurisprudence Exam
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Notes: Accelerated programs with capstone projects are allowed if hours are documented
4. Florida
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Education: PsyD or equivalent doctoral degree in psychology
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Clinical Hours: 1,500 predoctoral practicum + 2,000 internship hours
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Exams: EPPP + state laws and rules exam
5. Illinois
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Education: Doctoral degree in psychology, dissertation not required if clinical training is completed
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Clinical Hours: 2,000 predoctoral + 1,750 postdoctoral hours
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Exams: EPPP
6. Other Notable States
| State | Clinical Hours | Exam Requirements | Dissertation Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 1,500 practicum + 2,000 internship | EPPP + state exam | Not required if program approved |
| Ohio | 1,500–2,000 supervised | EPPP | Capstone acceptable |
| Michigan | 1,750 internship + postdoc | EPPP + jurisprudence | Not required |
| Georgia | 1,500–2,000 hours | EPPP | Not required for state-approved programs |
| North Carolina | 1,500–2,000 internship | EPPP + state law | Not required |
Insight: The key across all states is documented clinical experience, APA-accredited or board-approved education, and passing required exams.
Steps to Ensure Licensure Success
Step 1: Verify Program Accreditation
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Check APA accreditation or state-specific board approval
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Confirm capstone or no-dissertation track is recognized for licensure
Step 2: Track Clinical Hours
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Maintain detailed practicum and internship logs
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Ensure supervision meets state standards (licensed psychologist supervision required)
Step 3: Prepare for Exams
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Focus on EPPP content areas: assessment, intervention, ethics, research, and professionalism
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Study state jurisprudence or laws exam
Step 4: Apply for Licensure Early
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Submit transcripts, verification forms, and fee payments promptly
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Schedule EPPP or state exams as soon as eligibility is met
Step 5: Consider Postdoctoral Experience
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Even if not required, completing postdoctoral hours can strengthen clinical skills and speed up licensure in some states
Cost Considerations for Licensure
Licensing costs include:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Application Fees | $200–$500 per state |
| EPPP Exam | $600–$800 |
| State Law Exam | $50–$200 |
| Background Check | $50–$100 |
| Postdoc Supervision Fees | $1,000–$5,000 |
Tip: Plan your licensure budget early and account for multiple states if planning mobility.
Timeline to Licensure
General Timeline for PsyD No Dissertation Graduates:
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Program Completion: 3–5 years depending on pace
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Practicum and Internship Hours: Concurrent with program
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Application and Exams: 3–6 months post-graduation
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Postdoctoral Supervised Hours (if required): 1–2 years
Average Total Time: 4–7 years from program start to independent licensure, faster than traditional research-heavy PsyD programs.
Advantages and Disadvantages of No Dissertation Licensure Path
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Faster entry into clinical practice | Less preparation for academic research careers |
| Lower tuition cost | Limited research skill development |
| Streamlined path for applied psychology | Postdoc supervision may still be required in some states |
| State flexibility if program meets standards | Licensing rules vary, must verify state compliance |
Summary Table: PsyD No Dissertation Licensure Requirements
| State | Education | Clinical Hours | Exams | Dissertation Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | APA-accredited PsyD | 3,000 total | EPPP + state law | No |
| New York | Doctoral degree in psychology | 3,500 total | EPPP + state exam | No |
| Texas | APA-approved PsyD | 3,500 total | EPPP + Texas exam | No |
| Florida | PsyD or equivalent | 3,500 total | EPPP + state laws | No |
| Illinois | Doctoral degree | 3,750 total | EPPP | No |
| Pennsylvania | APA-approved PsyD | 3,500 total | EPPP + state exam | No |
| Ohio | Doctoral degree | 3,500 | EPPP | No |
| Michigan | PsyD | 3,500 total | EPPP + jurisprudence | No |
| Georgia | PsyD or equivalent | 3,500 total | EPPP | No |
| North Carolina | PsyD | 3,500 total | EPPP + state law | No |
FAQs: PsyD No Dissertation Licensure
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Can I get licensed with a PsyD that has no dissertation?
Yes, if your program is APA-accredited or state-approved and you meet clinical and exam requirements. -
Do all states accept no-dissertation PsyD programs?
Most states do, but verification with the licensing board is essential. -
How many clinical hours do I need?
Typically 3,000–3,500 total predoctoral and postdoctoral hours depending on state. -
Is a capstone project acceptable instead of a dissertation?
Yes, provided it demonstrates applied clinical competence and is recognized by the state board. -
Which exams are required?
EPPP is standard; some states require additional jurisprudence or laws exams. -
How long does licensure take after graduation?
Generally 3–6 months for application and exams, plus postdoc supervision if required. -
Can I practice immediately after graduation?
Not independently; you must complete licensing requirements and postdoc supervision if mandated. -
Is APA accreditation necessary?
For most states, yes. Some states allow board-approved programs if not APA-accredited. -
Are licensure fees expensive?
Fees range from $200–$800 depending on applications and exams. -
Can I transfer licensure if I move states?
Some states offer reciprocity or endorsement, but verification of education and hours is required. -
Does a no-dissertation PsyD affect salary?
No, as long as you are licensed; salary depends on experience, location, and practice setting.
Conclusion
Obtaining licensure with a PsyD no dissertation in the USA is fully achievable if you choose an accredited or state-approved program, complete supervised clinical experience, and pass required exams.
This state-by-state guide highlights key requirements, timelines, and cost considerations to help graduates plan efficiently. By understanding each state’s rules, maintaining thorough documentation of clinical hours, and preparing for licensure exams, graduates can enter the workforce faster and start their clinical careers with confidence.
Evaluate your target state’s licensing requirements early, ensure your PsyD program meets all standards, and create a strategic plan for completing clinical hours and exams. A well-planned licensure path with a no-dissertation PsyD can save time and costs while opening doors to a fulfilling career in applied psychology.