Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Education

Find answers to common questions about pursuing psychology education, from undergraduate preparation through doctoral training and licensure.

General Psychology Education

What degree do I need to become a psychologist?

To become a licensed psychologist, you need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program. However, some careers in psychology, such as school psychology or certain counseling roles, may be accessible with master's degrees. Review our degree programs guide for detailed information.

How long does it take to become a psychologist?

The complete educational path typically takes 8-12 years: 4 years for a bachelor's degree, plus 5-7 years for a doctoral program including internship. After graduation, you must complete additional supervised hours and pass licensing examinations.

What's the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Psychologists hold doctoral degrees in psychology (PhD or PsyD) and provide therapy and psychological testing. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO) who can prescribe medication. Both treat mental health conditions but with different training backgrounds and treatment approaches.

Can I become a psychologist with just a bachelor's degree?

No. While a bachelor's degree in psychology opens various career opportunities in human services and related fields, licensure as a psychologist requires doctoral-level education.

Do I need to major in psychology as an undergraduate?

While helpful, it's not always required. Many graduate programs accept students from other majors who complete prerequisite psychology courses. However, psychology majors typically have advantages in graduate admissions due to relevant coursework and research experience.

Graduate Education and Admissions

What GPA do I need for graduate school in psychology?

Competitive applicants typically have GPAs above 3.5, though requirements vary by program. Master's programs may accept GPAs of 3.0-3.5, while doctoral programs are highly competitive and often prefer GPAs above 3.7.

Do I need to take the GRE?

Many programs require or recommend the GRE, though an increasing number have eliminated this requirement. Check individual program websites for current policies. When required, competitive scores typically range from 150-160+ on verbal and quantitative sections.

Should I get a master's degree before applying to doctoral programs?

It's not required. Many students enter doctoral programs directly from undergraduate education. However, master's degrees can strengthen applications through additional research experience, clarified interests, and improved credentials.

What's the difference between a PhD and a PsyD?

PhD programs emphasize research and follow the scientist-practitioner model, preparing graduates for academic research and clinical practice. PsyD programs emphasize clinical practice with less research focus. Both qualify graduates for licensure. See our degree programs guide for details.

Are online psychology programs legitimate?

Some are, but investigate carefully. Ensure programs have proper institutional accreditation. For doctoral programs, APA accreditation is essential. Online programs must include supervised practical experiences to meet licensure requirements.

Specializations and Careers

What psychology specialization should I choose?

Choose based on your interests, career goals, and preferred work settings. Explore our specializations guide to learn about clinical, counseling, I-O, forensic, neuropsychology, and other fields. Gain exposure through coursework and experiences before committing.

Can I change specializations after starting graduate school?

It's difficult and often requires reapplying to different programs. Carefully research specializations before applying to ensure good fit with your interests and goals.

How much do psychologists earn?

Salaries vary by specialization, setting, and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual wages for psychologists ranged from $81,000 to over $100,000 depending on specialty, with significant variation based on practice setting and geographic location.

What's the job outlook for psychologists?

The BLS projects 6% growth in psychology careers from 2022 to 2032, faster than average. Demand is particularly strong for clinical psychologists, school psychologists, and those working with underserved populations.

Licensure and Credentials

What are the requirements for licensure?

Requirements vary by state but typically include a doctoral degree from an APA-accredited program, 1,500-6,000 hours of supervised experience, and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Contact your state's psychology board through ASPPB for specific requirements.

Can I practice in multiple states?

With appropriate licenses, yes. The PSYPACT interstate compact allows licensed psychologists to practice across participating states under certain conditions.

How important is program accreditation?

Extremely important. Most states require graduation from APA-accredited doctoral programs for licensure. Non-accredited degrees may severely limit career options. Always verify accreditation status before applying.

Financial Considerations

How much does psychology graduate school cost?

Costs vary widely. Many PhD programs offer full funding through assistantships. PsyD programs often require significant tuition but may offer partial funding. Explore financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs.

Can I work while in graduate school?

Doctoral programs are intensive and typically require full-time commitment. Many programs discourage or prohibit outside employment beyond assistantship duties. Master's programs may offer more flexibility for part-time students.

Still Have Questions?

For additional information, explore our comprehensive guides on degree programs, career paths, admissions, and specializations. Consult the American Psychological Association's education resources or contact us for further guidance.