Degree paths, certifications and expert advice for becoming a clinical psychologist
Clinical psychologists work with people experiencing behavioral or emotional struggles, and have the option to specialize with certain populations such as the elderly or adolescents. The job can be equally challenging and rewarding, as clinical psychologists help their patients strive towards better mental and emotional health. The field involves intense patient interaction, specialized application of knowledge, and a strong commitment to ethics. It takes a great deal of time, effort and study to complete a clinical psychology program. Read on to learn about degree options in clinical psychology, license and certification requirements and potential specializations.
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Best Clinical Psychology Programs
Methodology +
The scoring methodology includes factors such as:
- Cost & financial aid
- Number of programs and program offerings
- Student-teacher ratios
- Graduation rates
- Placement or Support Services
- Academic/Career Counseling Services
- Employment Services
and many others
These factors are assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. PBV denotes the overall value or 'bang for your buck' of a college or degree program.
Tuition costs, financial aid options, acceptance rates, number of programs available, and student-to-teacher ratios are all factors that can help determine the best clinical psychology school for a particular student. By comparing the top programs for 2016-2017, students can see excellent examples of what they want to look for in a program.
These rankings include
#1 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Marywood University
Scranton, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at Marywood University can complete graduate coursework in person or online. At the private institution, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, grad students take rigorous classes with career-focused support. In the Psy.D. in clinical psychology program, learners gain advanced knowledge and skills. Graduate degree-holders generally earn higher salaries and qualify for higher-level positions than professionals with only an undergraduate degree.
The curriculum covers key topics in the field and integrates experiential components. To prepare to succeed in the workforce, graduates can take advantage of the institution's career services. Graduates searching for a job and looking to develop professional connections can benefit from the school’s alumni network.
Marywood University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 23
Number of Master's Programs: 43
Number of Doctoral Programs: 2
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,888
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#2 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Murray State University
Murray, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Along with in-person graduate programs, Murray State University provides remote programs that learners can attend from any location. The public institution's graduate programs deliver rigorous, field-specific coursework. The school's master's in clinical psychology program helps learners develop field-specific knowledge and professional skills they can apply to clinical psychology roles. Graduates can use their degree to launch a career in the field or advance their current career.
Degree candidates develop practical skills through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships. To ensure they are on track to graduate, students can consult with academic advisors in their department. Graduates can leverage the school's extensive alumni network to access job opportunities and develop professional connections.
Murray State University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 9
Number of Master's Programs: 41
Number of Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,214
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#3 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Brigham Young University-Provo
Provo, UT - 4 years
- Campus
Many learners study at Brigham Young University-Provo's campus and others enroll in online graduate programs. The private institution's Ph.D. in clinical psychology program features advanced coursework and a customizable curriculum that allows students to tailor their education to their career goals. After earning a graduate degree, professionals often qualify for more positions in the field, along with higher pay.
Graduate students often conduct original research to contribute to the field while enhancing their resume. Online and on-campus learners can access institutional resources including academic advising, library assistance, and career services. To prepare for their job search, students can attend job fairs and pursue resume assistance from the school's career center.
Brigham Young University-Provo at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 1
Number of Master's Programs: 94
Number of Doctoral Programs: 32
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,290
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#4 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Yeshiva University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Yeshiva University's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. With a campus in New York, New York, the private institution enrolls graduate students interested in a variety of fields and professions. Learners pursuing the doctor of psychology in clinical psychology select advanced classes that prepare them for specialized roles in the field. Program graduates often leverage their education to advance to higher-level roles and secure higher salaries.
The curriculum features experiential components, which help graduates impress prospective employers. Learners can access resources including career services to prepare for professional success. The school hosts job fairs to help students explore career options and connect with prospective employers.
Yeshiva University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 5
Number of Master's Programs: 38
Number of Doctoral Programs: 21
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $34,800
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#5 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
In addition to on-campus graduate programs, Duquesne University delivers online options for busy learners. With a main campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the private institution's graduate programs provide important career preparation. While completing the Ph.D. in clinical psychology program, learners study niche topics to prepare for specialized careers in the field. Compared to bachelor's degree-holders, professionals with a graduate degree often earn higher salaries and benefit from increased career opportunities.
Graduate students often conduct original research to contribute to the field while enhancing their resume. Online learners benefit from virtual academic advising, online tutoring, and digital library resources. The school's alumni network and relationships with local businesses can lead to job offers for graduates of its programs.
Duquesne University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 18
Number of Master's Programs: 72
Number of Doctoral Programs: 24
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $23,580
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#6 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At University of Central Florida, learners can pursue high-quality graduate programs in person or in a remote format. The public institution's graduate programs enroll students located near Orlando and in other parts of the country. One of the school's graduate-level options, the Ph.D. in clinical psychology, features advanced coursework. A graduate degree can help professionals secure higher-paying roles with additional responsibilities.
The curriculum features experiential components, which help graduates impress prospective employers. The institution's academic advisors and career counselors support graduate students as they prepare to enter the workforce. Degree candidates can attend job fairs and pursue resume assistance from the school's career center.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 3
Number of Master's Programs: 75
Number of Doctoral Programs: 28
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 30-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,916
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#7 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can pursue Sam Houston State University's graduate programs online or on campus. The Huntsville, Texas-based public institution delivers many graduate programs, including a master's in clinical psychology. The program helps enrollees develop high-level knowledge and skills in the field. Graduates with a master's often secure raises and promotions.
Degree candidates can perform independent research to practice field-specific skills while expanding the field's knowledge base. Learners benefit from institutional resources, including academic advising and career services. The school’s career counselors help graduate students determine the best professional path for their goals, while providing resources to ensure they have the tools necessary to succeed.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 9
Number of Master's Programs: 50
Number of Doctoral Programs: 8
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $5,765
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#8 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg
Middletown, PA - 4 years
- Campus
Many learners study at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg's campus, and others enroll in online graduate programs. The public institution's graduate students receive a rigorous education to prepare them for careers in their field. Learners in the master of arts in applied clinical psychology program select advanced classes that prepare them for specialized roles in the field. Program graduates often secure raises and promotions.
Through internships, fellowships, and research projects, graduate students gain practical experience and enhance their resume. Online learners benefit from virtual academic advising, online tutoring, and digital library resources. The school's alumni network and relationships with local businesses can lead to job offers for graduates of its programs.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 16
Number of Master's Programs: 28
Number of Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Data not available
Graduate Tuition Rate: $21,792
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#9 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Jackson State University
Jackson, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at Jackson State University can complete graduate coursework in person or online. With a main campus in Jackson, Mississippi, the public institution's graduate programs provide important career preparation. Learners completing the Ph.D. in clinical psychology program gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field. Compared to bachelor's degree-holders, professionals with a graduate degree often earn higher salaries and benefit from increased career opportunities.
Through internships and fellowships, graduate students develop professional abilities and practice field-specific skills. Learners can access financial aid counseling to ensure they understand their funding options. Through mock interviews, resume assistance, and career counseling, the school supports graduate students preparing to locate and secure a position after earning their degree.
Jackson State University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 1
Number of Master's Programs: 34
Number of Doctoral Programs: 14
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,270
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#10 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Saint Michael's College
Colchester, VT - 4 years
- Campus
Working professionals often benefit from Saint Michael's College's flexible, high-quality online graduate programs. The private institution's graduate programs enroll students located near Colchester, Vermont, and in other parts of the country. Learners completing the master of arts in clinical psychology program gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field. Graduates of the program often secure raises and promotions.
Experiential learning components, such as internships and research projects, help students impress prospective employers and demonstrate their abilities. Learners benefit from institutional resources including academic advising and career services. Through mock interviews, resume assistance, and career counseling, the school supports graduate students preparing to locate and secure a position after earning their degree.
Saint Michael's College at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 3
Number of Master's Programs: 3
Number of Doctoral Programs: Data not available
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,160
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#11 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Many learners study at University of Kentucky's campus, and others enroll in online graduate programs. The public institution's graduate programs enroll students located near Lexington and in other parts of the country. A popular option for graduate-level learners at the school, the clinical psychology program requires specialized coursework in the field. After earning a graduate degree, professionals often qualify for more positions in the field, along with higher pay.
Through independent research projects, graduate students can begin contributing to their field before graduation. Institutional resources include academic advising, career services, tutoring, and financial aid counseling. The school’s career counselors help graduate students determine the best professional path for their goals, while providing resources to ensure they have the tools necessary to succeed.
University of Kentucky at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 52
Number of Master's Programs: 108
Number of Doctoral Programs: 76
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $12,055
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#12 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Marquette University
Milwaukee, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Marquette University delivers top-quality graduate programs on campus and online. With rigorous curricula, the private institution's graduate programs prepare on-campus and online students for the demands of their industry. The school's Ph.D. in clinical psychology program appeals to learners who want to specialize in an advanced, niche area of the field. Graduates often qualify for leadership positions and increased earning potential.
Students often pursue internships, fellowships, and independent research to gain professional experience that can lead to job offers after graduation. To ensure they are on track to graduate, degree-seekers can consult with academic advisors in their department. Graduate students can attend job fairs and participate in resume workshops to prepare to secure a job after graduation.
Marquette University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 19
Number of Master's Programs: 50
Number of Doctoral Programs: 26
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $21,060
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#13 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Many learners study at Abilene Christian University's campus, and others enroll in online graduate programs. With rigorous curricula, the private institution's graduate programs prepare on-campus and online students for the demands of their industry. While pursuing the master of science in clinical psychology, learners complete advanced coursework in to prepare for high-level positions. A graduate degree can help professionals secure higher-paying roles with additional responsibilities.
Degree candidates often pursue internships, fellowships, and independent research to gain professional experience that can lead to job offers after graduation. Learners benefit from institutional resources including academic advising and career services. Students can participate in job fairs and resume workshops, and graduates can benefit from the school's extensive alumni network.
Abilene Christian University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 7
Number of Master's Programs: 29
Number of Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $22,356
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#14 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With online and on-campus options, Emporia State University provides graduate programs meeting high academic standards. The public institution enrolls graduate students located near Emporia, Kansas, and across the country. While enrolled in the school's master's in clinical psychology program, learners take specialized graduate-level classes. Master's degree-holders often secure raises and promotions.
Graduate students can perform independent research to practice field-specific skills while expanding the field's knowledge base. The institution delivers resources, including academic and career services, to help students make the most of their education. The school’s career resources include resume assistance and mock interviews, which prepare enrollees to impress prospective employers and secure positions in their field.
Emporia State University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 13
Number of Master's Programs: 29
Number of Doctoral Programs: 1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,394
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#15 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Xavier University
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Xavier University stands out for the quality of its graduate programs. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, the private institution delivers rigorous graduate-level curricula. The school's Psy.D. in clinical psychology program appeals to learners who want to specialize in an advanced, niche area of the field. The degree helps graduates increase their professional responsibilities and boost their earning potential.
Enrollees with transferrable graduate credits may apply them to the program. Graduate students can use experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to demonstrate their practical and professional skills to prospective employers. Learners also benefit from strong career services support. Graduates can leverage the school's extensive alumni network to access job opportunities and develop professional connections.
Xavier University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 7
Number of Master's Programs: 45
Number of Doctoral Programs: 3
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $12,060
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#16 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners with personal or professional responsibilities often enroll in University of Iowa's online graduate programs. The Iowa City-based public institution educates students based throughout the country. The clinical neuropsychology subtrack features advanced coursework and a customizable curriculum that allows students to tailor their education to their career goals. A graduate degree often leads to improved career prospects and increased earning potential.
Through internships, fellowships, and research projects, graduate students gain practical experience and enhance their resume. To ensure they are on track to graduate, learners can consult with academic advisors in their department. Graduate students can take advantage of the school’s alumni network to locate available positions in their field, while gaining professional insights.
University of Iowa at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 91
Number of Master's Programs: 136
Number of Doctoral Programs: 113
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,079
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#17 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Adelphi University
Garden City, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Adelphi University's online graduate programs deliver flexible options for learners with full-time employment. With a main campus in Garden City, New York, the private institution's graduate programs provide important career preparation. Learners pursuing the Ph.D. in clinical psychology gain specific knowledge and practical skills relevant to the field. Graduate degree-holders generally earn higher salaries and qualify for higher-level positions than professionals with only an undergraduate degree.
The school accepts transfer graduate credits from accredited institutions, allowing enrollees to apply previous college experience toward the degree. Graduate students can perform independent research to practice field-specific skills while expanding the field's knowledge base. Online and on-campus learners can access institutional resources including academic advising, library assistance, and career services. By participating in networking events and securing assistance from the career center, graduate students can prepare for a successful job search.
Adelphi University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 25
Number of Master's Programs: 50
Number of Doctoral Programs: 6
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $41,920
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#18 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
George Fox University
Newberg, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at George Fox University can complete graduate coursework in person or online. At the private institution, located in Newberg, Oregon, grad students take rigorous classes with career-focused support. While completing the Psy.D. in psychology, learners study niche topics to prepare for specialized careers in the field. In this field and others, a graduate degree often leads to increased job prospects and salary potential.
Through internships and fellowships, graduate students develop professional abilities and practice field-specific skills. Learners benefit from institutional resources including academic advising and career services. By attending job fairs and career workshops, graduate students can explore their professional options and develop a plan for locating and applying for positions in their field after obtaining their degree.
George Fox University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 5
Number of Master's Programs: 15
Number of Doctoral Programs: 5
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $13,845
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#19 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at University of Louisville can complete graduate coursework in person or online. The public institution enrolls graduate students located near Louisville, Kentucky, and across the country. Learners pursuing the Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the school gain specific knowledge and practical skills relevant to the field. Program graduates often take on roles with more responsibility and earn higher salaries than professionals with less education.
The program features experiential learning components, allowing students to develop practical skills in professional settings. Learners can access financial aid counseling to ensure they understand their funding options. Graduates searching for a job and looking to develop professional connections can benefit from the school’s alumni network.
University of Louisville at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 26
Number of Master's Programs: 78
Number of Doctoral Programs: 39
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $13,000
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
#20 Clinical Psychology Degree Programs
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners at Eastern Kentucky University can complete graduate coursework in person or online. The public institution's graduate programs deliver rigorous, field-specific coursework. The Psy.D. in clinical psychology program features advanced coursework and a customizable curriculum that allows students to tailor their education to their career goals. The degree helps graduates increase their professional responsibilities and boost their earning potential.
The curriculum covers key topics in the field and integrates experiential components. Learners can access financial aid counseling to ensure they understand their funding options. By participating in networking events and securing assistance from the career center, graduate students can prepare for a successful job search.
Eastern Kentucky University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 8
Number of Master's Programs: 40
Number of Doctoral Programs: 5
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,900
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
Find Clinical Psychology Programs Near You
Students earning a clinical psychology degree are expected to gain practical experience working with patients, as one-on-one interactions are a major part of clinical psychology work. Exploring nearby programs allows students to build up experience and practice with local professionals and gain a sense of the clinical work they will do in their communities
Timeline: Clinical Psychology Degree Path
Undergraduate programs in clinical psychology provide an initial overview of this field and allow students to complete prerequisite work that provides a solid base of information to build on in later programs. Master's degrees deepen a student's knowledge of clinical psychology. However, most employers will require applicants to have a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. A doctoral degree demonstrates that a student is skilled enough to practice clinical psychology, engage in and apply research that expands the field, and contribute to scholarly discussion.
Associate Degree in Psychology
Program Length 2 years, full-time
Goals of the program: Students learn to communicate psychological information in a variety of contexts, think critically about solving mental and behavioral problems, understand the importance of ethical behavior in the practice of psychology, and both understand and apply psychology knowledge.
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
Program Length 4 years, full-time
Goals of the program:After establishing a base knowledge for upper division psychology courses, students learn applied psychology concepts, clinical assessment methods, behavioral disorder treatments, and the biology that underlies mental processes. Students can also take specialized courses in specific areas of clinical psychology, such as abnormal psychology and substance abuse counseling.
Master's in Clinical Psychology
Program Length 2 to 3 years, full-time
Who earns this degree?:Those who have obtained a bachelor's may pursue a higher degree in order to expand their career options and become a licensed clinical psychologist.
Application requirements:Master's programs require students to have a bachelor's degree in psychology. There may be previous course requirements that prove an applicant is proficient in the various area of psychology, particularly in its history, systems, and ethics.
Program overview:In a clinical psychology master's, students can expect to study scientific methods and research techniques, as well as more advanced courses in human neuropsychology and psychopathology. They will complete a thesis or a research report and practicum assignment in an area that they wish to specialize in, with the guidance of a department faculty member.
PhD/PsyD in Clinical Psychology
Program Length 4 to 7 years, full-time
Who earns this degree?: Earning a PhD in clinical psychology prepares graduates for careers in psychotherapy, clinical psychology, psychological testing, mental health consultation, research, and teaching clinical psychology at a higher education level.
Application requirements: To apply for a place in a clinical psychology PhD program, applicants must have a completed master's in psychology, letters of recommendation, and a statement of the personal goals that earning a PhD will help an applicant achieve.
Program overview: Earning a doctoral degree in clinical psychology takes a combination of research and coursework combined with practical experience in a professional psychology setting. Students apply their knowledge during internships with local offices. They also must create a professional psychology study that serves as their dissertation while also contributing original research to the clinical psychology community within their chosen specialization.
Typical Graduate-Level Coursework in Clinical Psychology
Graduate-level psychology programs assume that students have a basic understanding of the study of psychology. They build on a student's understanding of the profession and focus on gaining practical experience with patients. Students learn to cultivate their own practice of clinical psychology as they come to understand what new information and new perspectives they can bring to the field.
Course | Description |
---|---|
Abnormal Psychology | Students investigate abnormal behavior and mental disorders. They assess the biological, psychological, and social consequences of abnormal psychology as they develop experience with treatment methods for various disorders. |
Ethics and Standards of Professional Practice | Students analyze psychology's principles and codes of conduct. The class also addresses various psychological professional services in ways that adhere to these codes. |
History of Psychology | This class covers the history of psychology as well as contemporary psychological schools and specialties within the field. Students learn about the implications of various psychological theories. |
Multicultural Perspectives in Human Behavior | A course examining the proven and theoretical issues that arise from cultural differences of individuals and groups, and how these issues impact professional psychological practice. |
Research Experience Courses | Students expand their experience with ethical psychology research practices, either with several psychology classes followed by a research paper or a series of lab courses. |
Doctoral Internship | Graduate programs may have required internship hours to fulfill before students can graduate, and their classes provide supervised on-site training that connects with course activities to monitor internship experiences. |
Getting Licensed & Certified in Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists must earn a license within the state where they wish to practice. There are various specialty certifications that clinical psychologists can pursue as well to market themselves more closely within an area of the broad field of psychology. Different states have different requirements for professionals in this field, but they all need some confirmation that a clinical psychology program graduate meets certain ethical, scientific, and communication standards.
Requirements for Licensure in Clinical Psychology
A licensed clinical psychologist may work in hospitals or mental health offices, for schools, for the government, or as an independent psychologist with their own office. The following illustrates the steps that must be completed before a clinical psychologist is licensed to practice.
- Seek a master's or PhD in psychology
After earning a bachelor's in psychology, graduates wishing to work as clinical psychologists must earn a graduate degree in this field, often exploring a particular specialization. - Complete an internship
Graduate programs require clinical psychology students to participate in an internship as part of their credits for graduating. They must apply their knowledge in a real-world setting and reflect on this experience. - Earn a doctorate in psychology
Clinical psychologists must complete a Doctor of Psychology degree to practice clinical psychology with clients, or a PhD in psychology to conduct research and conduct research in the field of clinical psychology. - Complete 1-2 years of supervised professional experience
Program graduates demonstrate their abilities under a trained supervisor who helps them reflect on their role and how they can improve and develop as clinical psychologists. Different states require different supervised professional experience hours before licensure. - Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology
The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards licenses clinical psychologists. Their website has multiple resources for preparing to take this exam, which is required in all states except for Illinois. - Engage in continuing education
In order to maintain a clinical psychologist license, states require professionals to engage in continuing education courses. The American Board of Professional Psychology outlines continuing education requirements by state.
Clinical Psychology Certifications
Earning a clinical psychology certification is an additional step to prove to hospitals and clinics that a candidate is well-prepared as a psychologist. The American Board of Professional Psychology offers several different certifications that can help narrow down a clinical psychologist's range of expertise. To earn one of these specialty certifications, professionals must first earn a doctorate in clinical psychology, obtain a state license and pass the accompanying certification exam through ABPP.
Clinical Psychology
Candidates for this certification possess an understanding of clinical psychology practice that goes beyond the basics. Examinees have a doctoral degree, a license to practice independently as a psychologist, and complete postdoctoral supervised experience hours in addition to self-identifying as clinical psychologists.
Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology
Clinical psychologists working with children and adolescents commit to scientific inquiry, continuing education, and ethical professional practice as they address the family and social needs of children to promote healthy development. Candidates must meet postdoctoral practice experience and supervision requirements and commit to identifying within their specialty.
Clinical Health Psychology
A certification in clinical health psychology verifies that a candidate can apply their knowledge of the relationships between behavior, emotions, cognition, society, and biology in order to maintain individuals' health. Candidates must have proven experience in this field, either through a fellowship, special training, or a certain amount of postdoctoral supervised experience.
Clinical Neuropsychology
These specialists apply their knowledge of brain-behavior relationships to assess, diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate patients with neurological, medical, developmental, or psychiatric conditions. Certification candidates must be competent in clinical neurosciences such as neuroanatomy and complete training and documented didactic experience requirements as well as postdoctoral supervised experience hours.
For a complete list of certification study resources, see our student resources guide
Spotlight On: Program Accreditation
Psychology program accreditation not only ensures that a program is high quality, but it is also a requirement for state licensure and certifications that professionals graduate from an accredited program. Because clinical psychologists work with individuals who may be in delicate stages of mental and/or physical health, it is important that professionals are well-trained and understand the ethical standards they must uphold. Accrediting bodies ensure that professionals are able to meet these standards of client care. American
Psychological Association (APA)
This organization is the standard doctoral program accrediting body in the United States. It does not accredit psychology programs below the doctoral level. It is also a networking membership organization for practicing psychologists, and members have access to professional development opportunities. Almost all higher-level psychology certifications require candidates to graduate from a doctoral program that is certified by the APA.
Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC)
This accrediting body programs promotes high-quality, master's-level training in the scientific practice of professional psychology and counseling. Programs accredited by this institution emphasize science-based training in these fields, as well as focusing on providing services that are culturally responsive to people seeking professional services and the diverse public at large. While this body certifies graduate programs, they do not certify doctoral programs.
Career Highlight: Clinical Psychologist
What do they do?: The basic training to become a clinical psychologist prepares students to assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Professionals in this field may work with short-term personal issues as well as severe, chronic conditions, and they use a variety of approaches, from interviews to group therapy to behavior modification programs, to help their patients. Clinical psychologists may work with particular populations, such as children or the elderly.
Specialties available: Clinical health psychology, clinical neuropsychology, child psychology
Annual Salary (2015): $72,580
Projected Job Growth (201-2024): 19 percent
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2015)
Learn more about potential career paths in psychology
Similar Degree Programs in Psychology
A degree in clinical psychology provides a great beginning to a person's career, but there are further education opportunities that allow for greater specialization in the wide-ranging field of psychology. These specializations help a professional narrow down the scope of their practice and prove to potential employers that they are dedicated to their chosen area of interest.
Additional Resources for Clinical Psychology
Finding a career in clinical psychology means becoming a part of a community of practicing professionals. Below are some of the education, licensing, informational, and publishing resources for practicing clinical psychologists.
Asian American Psychological Association This organization works to improve the mental health and well-being of Asian-American communities through research, professional practice, education and policy.
Association for Women in Psychology A professional organization invested in feminist scholarship and advancement within the psychology field. Members work to integrate personal, professional, and political power in service of the psychological development and well-being of all people.
The Association of Black Psychologists Members of this organization value and work to restore, elevate, and maintain African-Americans' mental health.
The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards A membership organization committed to strict credentialing programs and current, accurate information about regulations for psychologists.
American Board of Professional Psychology An accrediting body for psychologists, offering specialized certifications in specific areas of the field of psychology.
Annual Review of Clinical Psychology This journal reviews significant developments in clinical psychology research, theory, and application. The website has the full text of many articles addressing a range of clinical psychology topics.
Clinical Psychology Review A scholarly journal that is also published online as an open access resource. The downloadable articles address a range of issues, from behavior therapy to child development, all strictly relating to research or practice in clinical psychology.
National Latina/o Psychological Association This organization of academics, researchers, and students works to advance psychological knowledge and apply it effectively for the benefit of Latina/o people.
Society of Clinical Psychology As a division of the APA, this membership society has a range of subsections for clinical psychologists who work in various fields as well as those who are recent graduates and just starting their careers.
Society of Indian Psychologists An organization working to advocate for the mental well-being of Native American people by increasing awareness of issues impacting American Indian mental health.