How To Become a Psychologist in 2025

Learn how to become a psychologist, including degree steps, licensing requirements, career options, and online programs to help you start your educational path.

Psychologists help people understand and manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. If you want to help others through therapy, research, or education, psychology might be the right path for you. Psychologists often work with people facing challenges like anxiety, depression, learning difficulties, or major life changes. They also study how the brain works, how people interact, and how to improve mental wellness in schools, hospitals, and workplaces.

Becoming a psychologist takes time and education, but it can lead to many different types of jobs. If you're wondering how to become a psychologist, we'll answer questions like how long it takes to get a psychology degree, what the steps you need to take are, and what to expect along the way.

What Does a Psychologist Do?

Psychologists work with people who are facing mental, emotional, or behavioral challenges. They might help someone manage stress, treat anxiety or depression, or improve how people learn and work together.

Others might focus on helping students with special needs or providing support to individuals who have experienced trauma. Some psychologists do therapy, while others conduct research, teach, or consult with organizations.

There are many types of psychologists, including clinical, counseling, school, forensic, and industrial-organizational. Clinical psychologists often work in hospitals or private practices, while school psychologists focus on helping students succeed. Forensic psychologists work in legal settings, and industrial-organizational psychologists help businesses improve employee well-being. Each type focuses on a different area of psychology and requires specific training.

Step-by-Step Guide To Becoming a Psychologist

To become a psychologist, you need to complete a series of educational and training steps. Here, we'll explain the process from earning your first degree to getting licensed and choosing a specialty.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Start by getting a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related subject like human development. In this program, you'll learn about how people think and behave. You'll also take classes in research methods, brain science, and statistics. This degree gives you a strong foundation for graduate school and introduces you to different areas of psychology.

Many students get involved in research projects or internships during college to gain experience. These opportunities can help you decide what type of psychology career you want to pursue.

Fortunately, you can earn your degree entirely online from a reputable institution. However, it's important to choose an accredited psychology program online, which ensures it meets certain academic standards and qualifies you for licensure.

Step 2: Pursue a Graduate Degree

After earning your bachelor's, the next step is to enter graduate school, since most psychology jobs require more than a bachelor's degree. The area of focus you choose will determine whether you need to pursue a master's degree or a doctoral degree.

For example, clinical and counseling psychologists usually need a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). These doctoral programs typically include research and may require a dissertation. Some programs focus more on practice, while others are centered on research.

School psychologists, on the other hand, may be able to work with a master's degree. In graduate school, you'll study advanced topics like therapy techniques, psychological testing, and ethics.

Step 3: Complete Supervised Experience

Before becoming licensed, you'll need to complete supervised experience. This part of the journey is where you apply your knowledge in real-world settings under the guidance of a licensed psychologist.

To get your license, you need to work under supervision for a certain number of hours. This usually happens during and after your graduate program. You might help real clients while being supervised by a licensed psychologist. This hands-on experience teaches you how to apply what you've learned in real-world situations.

Each state sets its own number of required hours, but it often ranges from 1,500 to 6,000 hours. These hours are critical for building your confidence and skills.

Step 4: Get Licensed in Your State

Licensing is a key step that allows you to practice psychology independently. Every state has rules for becoming a licensed psychologist. Most require you to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), which is a national exam, and meet other requirements like background checks or ethics exams. Once you are licensed, you can work independently and see clients on your own.

Here are a few examples of state-specific requirements:

California: Requires the California Psychology Laws and Ethics Examination (CPLEE) in addition to the EPPP.
Florida: Mandates a two-hour course on domestic violence as part of continuing education.
Texas: Requires fingerprinting and a jurisprudence exam focused on state laws.
New York: Requires applicants to complete coursework in child abuse identification and reporting.
Illinois: Allows for a temporary license during postdoctoral training, which must be approved by the state board.
Ohio: Requires supervised professional experience to be registered and approved in advance by the licensing board.

Some states also require continuing education to keep your license. This means you'll take periodic classes to stay updated on the latest psychology research and methods.

Step 5: Consider Specialization and Certification

After you become a licensed psychologist, you can choose to specialize in a certain field. You can also earn board certification to show your skills in that area. This isn't required, but it can help you stand out when applying for jobs, especially if you want to work in a competitive area or earn a higher salary. A few of these specializations include child psychology, trauma therapy, neuropsychology, and more.

Top Psychology Degree Programs

You need a strong educational background to become a psychologist. Below are a few top schools with both in-person and online degree options that include bachelor's, master's, or doctoral programs in psychology. These institutions also offer some of the most affordable online psychology degrees so you can earn your degree without incurring significant debt.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers several online bachelor's degrees in psychology. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in psychology covers topics like abnormal psychology and human behavior. The Bachelor of Science (BS) in psychology, on the other hand, focuses on the biological and neuroscientific aspects of psychology. The online format allows you to work on your degree from home and on your own schedule.

ASU also offers an online Master of Science (MS) in psychology. This program focuses on research and statistics but doesn't lead to licensure. It's a good fit if you want to work in research or education, or if you plan to go on to a doctoral program.

Estimated tuition cost: $7,582 per year (undergraduate); $8,790 per year (graduate)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

University of Texas at El Paso

The Master of Arts (MA) in clinical psychology at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) provides students with foundational skills in assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic techniques. The program includes hands-on practicum experiences and coursework in cognitive-behavioral interventions, ethics, and psychopathology.

Students often use the degree as a launchpad for doctoral programs, though some may enter supervised practice roles depending on licensure rules. UTEP attracts students looking for a cost-effective way to begin a career in mental health or continue toward advanced study.

Estimated tuition cost: $ 495.75 per credit hour
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Capella University

At Capella University, you can earn your PhD in psychology online and choose a focus area such as education, workplace behavior, or applied research. Both guided and self-paced options are available to those who want to do research, teach, or lead programs.

Capella lets you work at your own pace, which is great for students who need flexibility. You'll complete a dissertation and work with a faculty advisor to develop a deep understanding of your specialty area.

Estimated tuition cost: $525 to $1,020 per credit (varies by program and pace)
Accreditation: HLC

Western Carolina University

The PsyD in health service psychology at Western Carolina is created for those pursuing clinical practice in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, and mental health agencies. The program combines academic instruction with real-world training through multiple practicum placements and a full-time internship.

Here, you'll also complete a doctoral project addressing a practical issue in psychological service delivery. Its cohort structure helps build a sense of community while supporting professional growth.

Estimated tuition cost: $5,362 per semester (in-state); $10,721 per semester (out-of-state)
Accreditation: SACSCOC; APA-accredited PsyD program.

Southern New Hampshire University

The online Bachelor of Arts in psychology at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is available with tracks like mental health, addiction, and child development. You'll study research, behavior, and ethics, which will prepare you for graduate school or entry-level jobs in social services.

You can also further your education with SNHU's MS in psychology. While this program doesn't lead to licensure, it can help you get jobs in business, nonprofits, or education. SNHU has a flexible schedule and allows you to start multiple times per year.

Estimated tuition cost: $330 per credit (undergraduate); $637 per credit (graduate)
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

Walden University

Walden University offers an online BS in psychology that focuses on real-world uses of psychology in jobs and communities. The online degree program includes courses in development, behavior, and critical thinking.

This school also offers a PhD and an accredited PsyD program online. You can specialize in areas like clinical psychology or social psychology. Some programs can help you get licensed, depending on the path you choose. Walden supports students with resources like writing help and career planning.

Estimated tuition cost: $350 per quarter credit hour (undergraduate); $630 to $760 per quarter credit
Accreditation: HLC

University of North Dakota

The PhD in general experimental psychology at the University of North Dakota (UND) prepares students for roles in research, teaching, and program evaluation. This program will cover cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, along with advanced statistical methods and research design.

You'll spend much of your time conducting original research under faculty guidance, and may also gain experience as teaching assistants. This program does not lead to clinical licensure but supports careers in academic and institutional research.

Estimated tuition cost: $11,962
Accreditation: HLC

Liberty University

Liberty University (LU) offers an online BS in psychology with options like addiction counseling or military support. Classes run in short eight-week sessions, which helps working students complete their degrees faster.

The Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling at LU leads to licensure in many states. Liberty's PhD program focuses on advanced research and theory, and the university offers a Christian perspective in its curriculum.

Estimated tuition cost: $390 per credit hour (undergraduate); $580 per credit hour (graduate); $610 per credit hour (doctoral)
Accreditation: SACSCOC

Types of Psychologists and Career Options

There are many different careers you can pursue within psychology. Here are a few professions you can explore as a psychologist:

Clinical psychologists: These professionals diagnose and treat serious mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. They may work in hospitals, private practices, or mental health clinics.
Counseling psychologists: These psychologists help people manage everyday challenges such as stress, relationship issues, grief, or life transitions. They often work in community mental health centers, college counseling offices, or private practice.
School psychologists: These specialists support students' academic, social, and emotional development. They work with teachers, parents, and administrators to create learning plans, assess disabilities, and address behavioral concerns in K-12 schools.
Forensic psychologists: These professionals apply psychology in legal and criminal justice settings. They may evaluate a defendant's mental competency, conduct risk assessments, or provide expert testimony in court.
Industrial-organizational psychologists: These psychologists work with businesses and organizations to improve employee performance, morale, and leadership. They may also help develop training programs or improve hiring practices.
Health psychologists: These psychologists study how physical health and mental health influence each other. They often work in hospitals or clinics, helping patients manage chronic conditions, pain, or unhealthy habits like smoking.
Sports psychologists: These professionals work with athletes to improve motivation, focus, and performance under pressure. They may also assist with injury recovery and mental resilience.
Neuropsychologists: These specialists study brain-behavior relationships. They often work in hospitals or research settings to assess and treat individuals with brain injuries, strokes, or neurological disorders.
Developmental psychologists: These psychologists research how people grow and change over time, from infancy through adulthood. They often work in academic or research environments, focusing on learning, cognition, and social development.
Rehabilitation psychologists: These professionals support people adjusting to disabilities, injuries, or medical conditions. They help patients build coping strategies and return to daily life after trauma or illness.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Psychologist?

Time is a major factor when planning your education. It usually takes eight to 12 years to become a psychologist: You need four years for a bachelor's degree, then two to seven years for graduate school. Some jobs also require extra time for supervised training before you can get licensed.

If you plan ahead and choose the right programs, you might be able to speed up some parts of the process. You can start by researching accelerated psychology degree online to find a degree program that you can finish in a shorter timeframe.

However, becoming a licensed psychologist still requires a major time commitment. So, while accelerated options may help you shave off some time with transfer credits and online coursework, it's important to keep in mind that there is no quick path to becoming a psychologist.

Cost To Become a Psychologist

Getting a psychology degree is an investment, and the total cost depends on the program and format you select. A bachelor's degree might cost between $20,000 and $100,000 total, while graduate school can cost between $30,000 and $200,000. Online programs are sometimes cheaper and may allow you to keep working while in school.

Other costs include textbooks, application fees, licensing exams, and continuing education courses. Be sure to plan for these extra expenses when choosing a program.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Psychology Students

Paying for school can be easier with financial aid. You can get financial help by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form for federal aid. Many schools offer scholarships, especially for graduate students doing research or teaching. You can also find psychology scholarships from groups like the American Psychological Association.

Other financial aid may be available through:

military programs
employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement
work-study programs
assistantships

FAQs About Becoming a Psychologist

If you're still unsure about how to become a psychologist, we'll answer common questions about education, licensure, career outlook, and degree options.

Do You Need a Doctorate To Be a Psychologist?

To be licensed as a psychologist in the U.S., you generally need a doctoral degree � either a PhD or PsyD. These programs provide advanced training in assessment, research, and therapy. Some roles, like school psychologists, may allow you to practice with a specialist degree or master's, depending on the state's requirements, but this is not the norm.

Can You Become a Psychologist With a Master's Degree?

You may be able to work in psychology-related fields with a master's degree, but you typically cannot call yourself a 'psychologist' or practice independently without a doctorate. A master's in psychology can lead to roles in counseling, case management, research assistance, or education. Some states allow limited licensure for master's-level practitioners, but they often must work under supervision or within specific settings.

Is a License Required To Practice Psychology?

Yes, you need a license to work independently as a psychologist. Licensing requirements include completing a doctoral program, passing the EPPP exam, completing supervised hours, and meeting any state-specific rules. Without a license, you might still work in research, teaching, or support roles, but you won't be able to provide therapy or conduct assessments on your own.

How Much Do Psychologists Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologists earned a median annual salary of about $94,310 per year (or about $45 per hour) in 2024.

Your salary may be higher or lower depending on where you work, what kind of psychologist you are, and how much experience you have. For instance, industrial-organizational psychologists and those in private practice often earn more than school or research psychologists.

Explore Accredited Online Psychology Degrees Near You

It takes time and dedication to become a psychologist, but it can lead to a rewarding career. There are many online programs that make it easier to earn your degree while managing work and family. Check out Learn.org to explore psychology programs that fit your goals and interests. No matter where you start, there is a path that can help you succeed in the field of psychology.

Check out programs in your state: