What is the true difference between psyd and phd?

A PhD is a doctorate in philosophy and is the degree that has been used in many science disciplines (biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, etc.) for eons. It requires the completion of original research; that research must be written up in the form of a dissertation which is then defended to a dissertation committee. A university may require a peer-reviewed journal publication of the dissertation research before awarding the PhD degree. In the discipline of psychology, there is more competition for PhD programs than for PsyD programs. Only about 5 percent of applicants are admitted into psychology PhD programs.

The PsyD degree has been around for about 25-30 years. Most states view this degree as equivalent to the PhD in terms of licensing! Getting into a PsyD program is less competitive.

The amount of time to complete either type of degree is roughly equivalent at 5 to 7 years. There are many variables that go into completion time - the research being a huge component.

Your question about "more acknowledged..." is a little unclear. An academic employer (college or university) might have a preference for a candidate with a PhD.

Feel free to message me with any additional questions through my LinkedIn account.