A Lesley PhD combines the rigor that defines great research with the flexibility and speed that today’s world demands. Unlike other PhD programs that typically require 60 or more credits to achieve your doctorate, Lesley students can earn their degree with 45 credits, graduating as a deeply qualified, self-sufficient practitioner ready to make meaningful change - wherever your career might take you.
PhD Programs
PhD in Mental Health & Well-Being Programs At-a-Glance
PhD in Counseling and Psychology
48 Credits
- Doctoral Year 1 – 18 Credits
- Doctoral Year 2 – 12 Credits
- Doctoral Year 3 – 6 Credits
- Doctoral Year 4 – 9 Credits
- Dissertation
Programs begin in the Fall or Spring
Full-time or part-time on-campus programs
Weekend cohort-based model
Blend of online and on-campus classroom hours.
Minimum of 4 years for completion, with dissertation attempted after successful completion of year 3.
PhD in Expressive Therapies
45 Credits
- Doctoral Year 1 – 18 Credits
- Doctoral Year 2 – 18 Credits
- Doctoral Year 3 – 9 Credits
- Dissertation
Program begins in Summer
Cohort-based model
Low Residency - Three summer intensive residencies in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for approximately one week each summer over three years, with continued coursework throughout the academic years on-line and through email, peer group meetings, phone, and videoconferencing.
Approximately 10-20 hours per week devoted toward doctoral study.
A Tailored Approach to Your Doctoral Degree
Lesley University’s PhD in Mental Health & Well-Being programs are rigorous, individualized, and impactful. Both of our accelerated PhD programs – Counseling & Psychology and Expressive Therapies – allow students to shape their own dissertation topic and curriculum and conduct research at their current workplace, so they can build a program of study that aligns with their unique interests and career aspirations.
Over the course of your program, you’ll receive mentorship and guidance from our experienced faculty practitioners, and the support of a close-knit cohort of peers. You’ll hone your dissertation topic, sharpen your research methods, and produce consequential scholarship on a topic that you’re passionate about. You’ll graduate ready to advance your career and lead meaningful change, both in your current role and in future positions.
An Accelerated Path to your Future
A Community that’s with You for Life
Lesley PhD students work hard, but they’re never alone. Throughout your program, you’ll work alongside dedicated faculty and staff who provide the mentorship and guidance you need to turn your dissertation topic into thoughtful and impactful research. And our cohort model means you’ll collaborate with other students who are also pursuing their degrees. It’s a community of peers that not only enriches your educational experience, but becomes a network that’s with you for life. Learn more about how we support our alumni and professionals working in the field.
Explore Our PhD Offerings and see where a doctoral degree from Lesley can take you
Take the next step
Ready to begin your journey with Lesley? Share some basic information by filling out one of the forms below so that we can reach out to you with more information about our programs. Or, email admissions@lesley.edu to connect with a member of our admissions team.
Undergraduate Inquiry Form | Graduate Inquiry Form | Threshold Inquiry Form