phd psychology licensure

Psychology Licensure Requirements by State

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Many professional psychologists are charged with the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of others, and in order to effectively and responsibly care for others, they need to know how to diagnose and treat a myriad of physical, mental, and emotional issues. Every state in the country takes the well-being of their citizens very seriously, and because of that, professional psychologists need to go through a rigorous licensure process to prove they are qualified to care for others.

Not all state licensure processes are the same, and trying to keep up with all the different regulations and requirements can be quite difficult, which is why we went ahead and built detailed licensure outlines for each state that includes education requirements, experience requirements, and necessary paperwork and procedures.

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Licensing & Certification Information

• Psychologist Licensing by State
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College of Allied Health: PhD in Clinical Psychology

• College of Allied Health
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
• PhD in Clinical Psychology

Note on Licensure

Learning outcomes, minimum degree requirements.

• Doctoral Writing Assessment

9-year Maximum Time Frame

• PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership

Program Website  

Walden’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program can prepare students to practice, teach, or research to positively impact the mental health of diverse clientele.

In this blended doctoral program, featuring online and in-person participation, students can gain the skills to assess mental wellness and provide interventions as a practitioner, educator, researcher, or consultant. Taught by respected psychology faculty, coursework explores current theories and empirically supported practice. Students can combine scholarly research with practical experience to build the skills and knowledge to work with people who are struggling with mental illness or general life issues.

The PhD in Clinical Psychology program is designed to prepare graduates to qualify to sit for psychology licensing exams in some states. This program is designed to meet the academic licensure requirements of some state psychology boards. However, Walden University’s PhD in Clinical Psychology is not accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and has not received designation by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards/National Register (ASPPB/NR), which are requirements for licensure in many states.

Walden enrollment specialists can provide guidance on licensure issues, state-by-state educational requirements, and internship and practicum requirements; however, it remains the student’s responsibility to evaluate and understand the licensure requirements for the state in which he or she resides, as requirements vary widely. Walden University enrollment specialists can provide general guidance on licensure requirements; however, it is the responsibility of each student to understand and comply with the most current psychology licensure information for his or her individual state. Walden makes no guarantee that its PhD in Clinical Psychology program will meet the licensure requirements in any state.

Prospective students should review the specific, detailed licensure requirements applicable to their state(s) of residency to see if the Walden program meets all of the requirements to sit for licensure as set forth in the state regulations. Additionally, some states have additional coursework, residency, or fieldwork requirements that students will need in order to be eligible for licensure as a psychologist in that state.

Prospective students enrolling in licensure-leading programs are advised that relocation to another state may impact the student’s ability to complete field experiences and/or to obtain professional licensure, certification, or other credential in another state. Prospective students are advised to carefully review, evaluate, and understand the requirements of the applicable licensure board in the state in which they intend to relocate.

At the end of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Evaluate the origins and development of major ideas in the discipline of psychology, as well as major theories of psychology.
• Critique the basic content areas of scientific psychology including the breadth, range, and depth of the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social aspects of behavior. 
• Apply integrative knowledge in scientific psychology including the ability to integrate, evaluate, analyze, and conceptualize multiple discipline specific content areas. 
• Integrate advanced knowledge and applied skills in psychometrics, research, quantitative, and qualitative methods. 
• Synthesize the principles of research methods in order to independently formulate, conduct, and disseminate research and related scholarly activities. 
• Critique and apply relevant research in the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions in clinical decision making, as well as evaluate treatment effectiveness, goals, and methods consistent with ongoing evaluation. 
• Communicate competency in the application of APA ethics and codes, as well as the relevant laws, regulations, policies, rules, professional standards, and guidelines in the practice of clinical psychology. 
• Model professional values and attitudes including integrity, comportment, identity, accountability, lifelong learning, self-reflection and care, and concern for others welfare in all relationships. 
• Demonstrate professional competence, including professionalism, respect for diversity, and relational competency
• Demonstrate competence in the profession specific clinical competencies, including diagnosis, assessment, and psychotherapeutic interventions.
• Integrate knowledge of individual and cultural diversity in professional practice.
• Professional Development Plan and Program of Study
• Foundation course (1 credits)
• Core courses (54 credits)
• Research courses (25 credits)
• Electives courses (5 credits)
• Research Skills Labs (0 credit per term for a minimum of 5 terms)
• Professional Development Series (0 credit per term for a minimum of 12 terms)
• Clinical practicum (6 credits)

Internship (12 credits)

• Blended Academic Year in Residence (40 credits; 45 credits for Illinois students)
• Dissertation writing courses (20 credits; taken continuously until completion)
• Completion of a beginning-of-quarter, mid-quarter, and end-of quarter plan for each term
• Four PhD residencies

Foundation Course (1 credit)

Core courses (45 credits).

• Students may take this as a non-degree course.
• Students may take this a non-degree course.

Research Courses (25 credits)

Elective courses (5 credits)*.

For the General program, select one course from any of the PhD in Clinical Psychology specialization courses as an electives. 

* 5 credit Elective course is not required for Illinois students

Specializations Not Currently Accepting New Students

Specialization in forensic psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in health (not currently accepting new students), specialization in industrial and organization psychology (not currently accepting new students), specialization in teaching (not currently accepting new students), research skills labs (0 credits), professional development series (0 credits), clinical practicum (6 credits), blended academic year in residence (40 credits; 45 credits for illinois).

The courses associated with the Blended Academic Year in Residence (BAYR) must be completed consecutively within a 12-month calendar year. Students that stop the course sequence and do not complete in a consecutive calendar year will need to resume the BAYR course sequence again from the beginning.

* PSRI courses are for Illinois students only

Residency Requirements

• Residency 1 – Complete in term 2. Required alongside CPSY 8401 Doctoral Research Seminar 1 and CPSY 8781 Psychopathology From a Clinical Perspective.
• Residency 2 – Complete in term 5.
• Residency 3 – Complete in term 8. Residency 3 required in term 8. Required alongside CPSY 8403 Doctoral Research Seminar 2 and CPSY 8209 Ethics and Standards of Psychological Practice.
• Residency 4 Genera l

Completion of the Doctoral Dissertation

Students are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. To complete a doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

Students who start or readmit to doctoral programs at Walden University in the university catalog for academic year 2017 or later will complete the university’s required  doctoral writing assessment . Designed to evaluate incoming doctoral students’ writing skills, this assessment aims to help prepare incoming doctoral students to meet the university’s expectations for writing at the doctoral level.

Students have up to 9 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements ). Students may petition to extend the 9-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

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Best Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs

Genevieve Carlton

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

ASO Rankings Team

Updated April 12, 2024

Hannah Muniz

Contributing Editor

Reviewed by

Megan Pietrucha

Contributing Reviewer

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Curious about human behavior, group dynamics, and abnormal psychology? A psychology degree sheds light on our social and emotional world. But if you want to become a psychologist, you'll need a doctorate.

An online Ph.D. in psychology can prepare you for careers in counseling psychology, clinical psychology, school psychology, and other specialties. And an online learning format makes it easier to reach your educational goals. Learn how to choose a program and launch your career as a psychologist.

Why Get an Online Ph.D. in Psychology?

• An online Ph.D. in psychology can qualify you for the title of psychologist in various specializations.
• Many psychology careers boast high median salaries.
• You can get a Ph.D. in psychology online from a great school, even if you live far away.
• Some institutions charge online learners in-state tuition rates, regardless of where they live.
• Asynchronous coursework makes it easy to schedule coursework around professional and personal responsibilities.

Did You Know?

• Currently, over 196,000 psychologists practice across the U.S.
• Psychology is a growing field, with more than 12,000 projected jobs each year from 2022-2032.
• Industrial-organizational psychologists report the highest salary among psychology specializations, with a median annual salary of over $147,000.
• While psychologists need a doctorate for clinical roles, they can earn either a Ph.D. or Psy.D .
• The American Psychological Association offers doctoral scholarships and fellowships through its foundation.

Check Out Our Featured Online Psychology Programs

Does accreditation matter for online ph.d. programs in psychology.

Accreditation matters when earning an online doctoral degree in psychology. That's because you'll have a better chance at landing an internship during your doctoral program if you attend an accredited program.

What's more, states require psychologists to graduate from an accredited program to apply for licensure.

Here's how college accreditation works: Independent accrediting agencies evaluate colleges and universities. They research student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic standards.

Programs within a university can also apply for accreditation from specialized agencies dedicated to the field. You can look up accreditation for a school or program.

When researching Ph.D. programs in psychology, look for programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). These programs meet the highest standards for training psychologists.

While APA does not accredit online-only programs , it does accredit hybrid programs and Ph.D. programs with some online coursework. APA's accredited program database provides more information on accredited doctoral programs in psychology.

Top Online Doctoral Degree in Psychology Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Online + Campus

Avg. Cost: $3,670.00 (3-5.99 credits) | $14,680.00 (12 credits)

Credits to Graduate: 60

Keiser's nonclinical online Ph.D. in psychology consists of 20 classes, including behavioral neuroscience, human development, and educational psychology. The research-based program also includes two residencies.

This program takes 36-60 months to complete and can help you establish a career in academia, organizational psychology, or research. You can choose to take just one or two classes at a time.

You can start the Ph.D. program with just a bachelor's in psychology or a related behavioral science, but you must take an additional 18 credits. GRE scores are not required for admission.

Liberty University

• Lynchburg, VA

Avg. Cost per Credit: $595 (full-time) | $650 (part-time)

Liberty's online Ph.D. in psychology prepares you for teaching, writing, and research careers. Courses like psychological research are based in both scientific and biblical traditions.

You'll have access to an online library, a writing center, study aids, and academic advisors. You can also participate in Convocation, a twice-a-week worship, prayer, and speaker series.

There are eight annual start dates, with classes offered in eight-week blocks. No standardized tests are required for the psychology Ph.D. program. You can transfer up to 50% of your degree course requirements.

Saybrook University

• Pasadena, CA

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,514

Credits to Graduate: 66

Saybrook's online Ph.D. in psychology takes 5-6 years to complete and is taught by experienced faculty. At the start of the fall and spring semesters, you must attend a five-day residential conference in Monterey, California. You must also attend a two-day residential orientation at the start of the Ph.D. program.

You can choose one of four specializations: consciousness, spirituality, and integrative health; creativity studies; existential, humanistic, and transpersonal psychology; and psychophysiology.

To apply, you must undergo a two-part interview with admissions officers and faculty in addition to submitting an online application. You do not need to submit GRE scores.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles

• Los Angeles, CA

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,622

Credits to Graduate: 60-61

The Chicago School offers full-time online Ph.D. programs in business psychology and international psychology and a part-time online Ed.D. in educational psychology and technology.

The Ph.D. in business psychology includes an industrial-organizational track with two 300-credit hour internships. The consulting track includes coursework on business and financial literacy.

The Ph.D. in international psychology includes two required international field experiences. Students are assigned cohorts and move through the program with their peers. The Ed.D. in educational psychology and technology includes two three-and-a-half-day on-campus residencies.

Generally, you'll need at least a 3.2 GPA for admission to the doctoral programs.

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Accredited Schools Online uses trusted data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools based on quality, affordability, and reputation.

When rankings schools, we look at factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition and other costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

This list is from 2023. To learn more, consult our school rankings methodology.

How Much Does an Online Ph.D. in Psychology Cost?

An online doctorate in psychology generally costs anywhere from $50,000-$200,000.

Ultimately, how much you spend on your degree will depend on factors such as:

• Whether you pursue a Ph.D. in psychology (which usually lasts 4-7 years) or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) (which takes roughly 4-6 years)
• Whether you qualify for any in-state tuition discounts
• Whether you attend a public or private institution
• How much financial aid you get

Be sure to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — with this, you can qualify for federal grants and loans. You could also qualify for institutional scholarships.

If possible, try to prioritize fully funded doctoral psychology programs.

In addition to tuition and required fees, you'll need to budget for a good-quality laptop, reliable internet access, and any extra technology or distance-learner fees.

You'll also need to pay for your state license and exam fees once you complete your program.

How Much Can You Make With an Online Psychology Ph.D.?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists earn a median salary of $92,740 per year . The highest-paid psychologists work in government agencies and hospitals.

Your specialization can affect how much you earn. For example, industrial-organizational psychologists earn a median annual salary of over $147,000, whereas child psychologists earn a much lower median salary, closer to $60,000.

Your location can also impact your earning potential as a psychologist. BLS data shows that Oregon and California offer some of the highest average salaries for psychologists.

Sources: BLS , Payscale

How to Become a Psychologist: 6-Step Guide

Becoming a psychologist requires years of graduate-level education and postdoctoral training. Here are the steps you'll need to take to start your career as a psychologist.

Step 1: Get a Bachelor's Degree

Your journey toward a career in psychology begins with a bachelor's degree. You'll need a bachelor's to apply to graduate programs in psychology.

A psychology degree offers a strong foundation for graduate-level study. You can also choose a specialized degree like industrial-organizational psychology or opt for a degree in a related mental health field such as social work .

Many majors — including in the humanities, the social sciences, education, and human services — can prepare you for psychology careers.

Step 2: Choose a Specialization

What kind of psychologist do you want to become? Are you interested in counseling roles or positions in education? Are you drawn to research topics or clinical practice?

Choosing a specialization early can help you find the best program to reach your goals.

Common psychology specializations include:

• Clinical psychology
• Counseling psychology
• Forensic psychology
• Behavioral psychology
• Developmental psychology
• Industrial-organizational psychology
• School psychology
• Health psychology

Step 3: Compare Online Doctoral Degrees in Psychology

Next, research online doctoral programs. Some psychologists move straight from a bachelor's degree into a doctoral program, whereas others earn a master's in psychology to strengthen their skills before applying to an online psychology Ph.D. program.

When researching graduate psychology programs, make sure to check the university's accreditation status and the program's accreditation.

As you compare programs, check whether they offer a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. Both degrees are doctorates in psychology, but a Ph.D. emphasizes research while a Psy.D. emphasizes practice.

You can earn a psychologist license and qualify for most roles with either degree. That said, a Ph.D. generally leads to academic and research roles, whereas a Psy.D. leads to clinical roles.

Consider as well your budget for a doctorate. Costs will vary depending on the program. Look into fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to lower costs.

Step 4: Earn a Doctorate in Psychology

Earning your doctorate in psychology takes a minimum of four years for a Psy.D. and up to seven years for a Ph.D.

During that time, you'll take psychology courses and work closely with your faculty advisor to develop a dissertation project. You'll also conduct research and gain clinical skills.

At the end of your online psychology Ph.D., you'll defend your dissertation. Psy.D. programs may not require dissertation defense, but you will have to write one.

Common Courses in a Ph.D. in Psychology Online Program

• Advanced Qualitative Analysis
• Behavioral Assessment
• Clinical Practicum
• Developmental Psychology
• Ethics and Legal Issues
• Multivariate Statistics
• Psychobiology
• Psychopathology
• Survey Construction and Administration

Step 5: Fulfill Supervised Training Requirements

Before receiving your psychologist license, you'll need to meet supervised training requirements.

Each state sets its own requirements, which you can meet during your doctorate or after graduating. For example, Washington state requires 3,300 hours of supervised experience, with the option to complete up to 1,500 hours after graduation.

Many psychologists complete this requirement as part of their doctoral program. Programs incorporate practicums, internships, and other supervised training opportunities. In some states, you can also meet supervised experience requirements through a postdoc or postgraduate internship.

Check the licensing requirements in your state for more information.

Step 6: Apply for Licensure

The final step to becoming a psychologist is to apply for a state license.

In many states, the Board of Psychology issues these licenses. Typically, you'll need a doctorate in psychology from an accredited program, supervised experience, and passing scores on a licensure exam.

Aspiring psychologists in all states must take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). You may have to take additional exams, depending on what state you live in. For example, most states require a state jurisprudence exam, which tests applicants on their knowledge of state laws applicable to psychology practice.

Exam and licensure costs vary by state. In New York, you'll pay $294 for your initial license , while in Pennsylvania it costs $105 for an initial license and $300 to renew your license.

Q&A With a Real Psychologist and a Psychology Student

Q: why did you decide to pursue a career in psychology.

"I have always had a strong passion for helping others, and this drive led me to this field. It was after working as a behavior specialist doing in-home behavioral therapy that solidified my decision to pursue a career in psychology."

"I wanted to ease people's suffering and make sure there were supports in place for those who needed them. Moreover, I had negative experiences with the mental health system as an adolescent, and I wanted to ensure that those experiences weren't repeated for other people."

Q: In your opinion, what is the value of earning a doctorate in psychology?

"You are in a position to help individuals and our larger society. Along with providing direct treatment, you have credentials that allow you to advocate for systematic changes. You can advocate in a variety of ways, such as through assessments, creating community-based programs, and activism in legal arenas."

"If I chose to do a master's program, I don't believe I would have had as many opportunities, and master's-level clinicians tend to not make as much as doctorate-level clinicians/providers."

Q: Why did you choose to earn a Psy.D. instead of a Ph.D. in psychology?

"I chose a Psy.D. program as opposed to a Ph.D. as my program really emphasizes putting what we learn in classes to practice in our practicum sites. I also did not want to attend a program so heavily focused on research."

"I didn't just look at program types, but also at the faculty I wanted to work with. Both types of programs can offer similar training experiences, but having the right mentor whose research or interests aligns with yours is a key part of a successful graduate school experience."

Q: What is something that surprised you about your psychology program or the field of psychology?

"How much we don't know! While the field is improving on its ability to replicate research and evaluate treatment effectiveness, we don't fully understand how and why individuals react, or don't react, to popular interventions."

"As a trainee, I was shocked to see what goes into being a great practitioner and having only a fraction of the work put in get rewarded. This is a selfless job and career, and the needs of those we help must always be a priority."

Q: What is your biggest piece of advice to those who want to become psychologists?

"Listen to the people who come to you for assistance and be mindful of social and political influences on mental wellness. Many individuals will not benefit from standardized interventions, particularly those from historically oppressed communities. We need to listen when people tell us what is, or is not, working for them and be open to other ways of healing."

"Impostor syndrome is REAL! There will be many times in your training that you feel like you don't belong or that you're not as good as those around you, but this is not true! You belong in this field and are just as good as anyone around you — just don't forget the reasons why you're here!"

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Ph.D. Programs in Psychology

What can i do with an online ph.d. in psychology.

An online Ph.D. in psychology from an accredited program meets the requirements for a psychologist license. That means you can work in roles such as counseling psychologist, school psychologist, or clinical psychologist.

With a doctorate in psychology, you can also pursue academic and research careers. Most universities require a doctorate for tenure-track professor jobs.

Before applying to online psychology programs, check the program's accreditation status. Only accredited programs meet the requirements psychology licensure and employment.

Is an online doctoral degree in psychology credible?

Yes, an accredited online doctoral degree in psychology meets the same high standards as those of traditional degrees. Accreditation agencies regularly review programs to ensure they follow the best practices for training psychologists.

Employers also respect online degrees from accredited institutions. Many online universities issue the same diplomas to online and in-person students, indicating that the delivery method does not impact the quality of the degree.

How long does it take to earn a Ph.D. in psychology?

Earning a Ph.D. in psychology generally takes 5-7 years. During that time, psychology doctoral students complete coursework, attend practicums and internships, and conduct research. Doctoral programs also require a dissertation, which doctoral candidates must defend to earn their Ph.D.

Psychologists can practice with a Psy.D. as well. This doctoral degree emphasizes practice and typically requires 4-6 years. During a Psy.D. program, you'll complete coursework, write your dissertation, and gain hands-on experience through supervised practicums and internships.

What is the main difference between a Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in psychology?

A Psy.D. and a Ph.D. in psychology are both doctoral degrees; however, the Psy.D. emphasizes practice and prepares graduates for careers in clinical settings, whereas the Ph.D. focuses on research and typically leads to roles in academia or research.

You can become a psychologist with a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. — both degrees meet the requirements for a psychologist license. If you're interested in academic career paths, a Ph.D. makes the most sense, while a Psy.D. makes more sense if you want to work in a clinical capacity.

Can psychologists specialize?

Yes, psychologists can specialize. At the graduate level, psychology students typically choose a specialty, such as clinical psychology, school psychology, or counseling psychology.

Other popular specializations include educational psychology, health psychology, behavioral psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology.

After choosing a specialty, you'll take focused courses and complete hands-on training in clinical settings related to that specialty. Choosing a specialty early on can help you find the right doctoral program for you.

All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team .

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License Requirements for Psychology

General requirements.

The practice of psychology or use of the title "psychologist" or terms "psychologist, psychology, or psychological" or any derivative thereof within New York State requires licensure as a psychologist, unless otherwise exempt under the law.

To be licensed as a psychologist in New York State you must:

• be of good moral character
• be at least 21 years of age
• meet education, examination, and experience requirements

Submit an application for licensure and the other forms indicated, along with the appropriate fee, to the Office of the Professions at the address specified on each form. It is your responsibility to follow up with anyone whom you have asked to send us material.

The specific requirements for licensure are contained in Title 8, Article 153 , Sections 7603 and 7604 of New York's Education Law and Part 72 of the Commissioner's Regulations. The Rules of the Board of Regents on Unprofessional Conduct are available on this site ( Part 29, Unprofessional Conduct ).

You should also read the general licensing information applicable for all professions.

The fee for licensure is $294.

The fee for a limited permit is $70 (the limited permit fee is not refundable).

Fees are subject to change. The fee due is the one in law when your application is received (unless fees are increased retroactively). You will be billed for the difference if fees have been increased.

• Do not send cash.
• If you apply for licensure electronically using the online Application for Licensure, you will be required to pay by credit card.
• Other payments must be made by personal check or money order payable to the New York State Education Department. Your cancelled check is your receipt.
• Mail any required forms and fees to the indicated address on the form.

NOTE: Payment submitted from outside the United States should be made by check or draft on a United States bank and in United States currency; payments submitted in any other form will not be accepted and will be returned.

Partial Refunds

Individuals who withdraw their licensure application may be entitled to a partial refund.

• For the procedure to withdraw your application, contact the Psychology Unit at [email protected] or by calling 518-474-3817 ext. 592 or by fax at 518-402-5354.
• The State Education Department is not responsible for any fees paid to an outside testing or credentials verification agency.

If you withdraw your application, obtain a refund, and then decide to seek New York State licensure at a later date, you will be considered a new applicant, and you will be required to pay the licensure and registration fees and meet the licensure requirements in place at the time you reapply.

Education Requirements

To meet the professional education requirement for licensure, you must:

• Have a doctoral degree in psychology that was granted on the basis of the completion of a doctoral program in psychology registered by the Department as licensure qualifying, or a doctoral program accredited by the American Psychological Association as a program in health service psychology, or determined by the Department to be the substantial equivalent in accordance with the Regulations of the Commissioner. You must meet the requirements in effect on the date you apply.
• Satisfy the Child Abuse Identification Reporting requirement by completing coursework or training in the identification and reporting of child abuse in accordance with Section 6507(3)(a) of the Education Law. See additional information and a list of approved providers for this training.

The doctoral programs in psychology in New York State that have been approved as licensure-qualifying should include that information in their course catalog. You may also find that information in the Inventory of Registered Programs compiled by the Office of Higher Education at http://www.nysed.gov/heds/IRPSL1.html .

To be determined to be the substantial equivalent of a New York State program registered as licensure qualifying, a program must be offered by an institution accredited by an accrediting organization acceptable to the Department or recognized by the appropriate civil authorities of the jurisdiction in which the school is located as an acceptable doctoral program in psychology. The program must be designed and conducted by the degree-granting institution to prepare graduates to practice professional psychology independently, and it must be shown to be the substantial equivalent to the requirements for the registration of a licensure qualifying doctoral program in psychology in New York State. The program must consist of at least three years of full-time study, or the part-time equivalent, and must include at least 30 semester hours of course work obtained at the doctoral degree-granting institution. The Department has determined that doctoral programs in psychology accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) are acceptable.

The program must be a doctoral program in psychology which requires at least three years of full-time study or the equivalent, including seminars, tutorials, or other graduate level coursework representing two years of full-time study or the equivalent and include:

• coursework in research, ethical and legal standards, individual and cultural diversity, professional values, attitudes and behaviors, communication and interpersonal skills, assessment and diagnosis, intervention, supervision, consultation and interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills, and
• one year of supervised practicum, internship, field experience, or applied research, which is appropriate to the practice of psychology as the practice is defined in Section 7601-A of Title 8 of the Education Law. To meet this requirement, a "practicum" must be the equivalent of an "internship."

Experience Requirements

You must present evidence satisfactory to the State Board for Psychology, of two years of full-time supervised experience (defined as 1750 clock hours per year) or the part-time equivalent, consistent with the scope of practice in psychology in Section 7601-A of the State Education Law.

No more than one year of full-time supervised experience or its equivalent, consisting of 1,750 clock hours completed as part of the internship required for the doctoral degree, may be submitted to meet the experience requirement. The remaining experience must be completed after receipt of the qualifying doctoral degree.

Your experience must consist of a planned programmed sequence of supervised employment or engagement in appropriate psychology activities performed in accordance with the definition of the practice of psychology provided above in Education Law § 7601-A , and satisfactory in quality, breadth, scope and nature.

One year of the following types of experience may be accepted provided that it integrates psychological knowledge and application:

• A university approved doctoral level practicum, internship, field experience or applied research as long as the research experience is not a part of your dissertation or thesis requirement;
• Teaching psychology, as a university or college faculty member may be accepted provided it meets all the requirements for supervised experience .

Experience that is completed in New York must be in an authorized setting, as defined in the Commissioner's Regulations:

• a professional corporation, registered limited liability partnership, or professional service limited liability company authorized to provide services that are within the scope of practice of psychology;
• a sole proprietorship owned by a licensee who provides services that are within the scope of his or her profession and services that are within the scope of practice of psychology;
• a professional partnership owned by licensees who provide services that are within the scope of practice of psychology;
• a program or service operated, regulated, funded, or approved by the Department of Mental Hygiene, the Office of Children and Family Services, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the state Office for the Aging and the Department of Health or a local governmental unit as that term is defined in section 41.03 of the Mental Hygiene Law or a social services district as defined in section 61 of the Social Services Law;
• an entity holding a waiver issued by the Department pursuant to section 6503- a or 6503-b of the Education Law to provide services that are within the scope of practice of psychology;
• a program or facility authorized under federal law to provide services that are within the scope of practice of psychology; or
• an entity authorized under New York law or the laws of the jurisdiction in which the entity is located to provide services that are within the scope of practice of psychology;
• provide psychological services as defined in Section 7601-A of NYS Education Law;
• provide supervision to you by a qualified psychologist responsible for the design, coordination, integrity and quality of your experience;
• provide a title for you that conforms to the requirements in Section 7605 of NYS Education Law that clearly designates your training status such as, "psychological intern or psychological trainee," or as "psychologist" if you hold a limited permit;
• provide a title that meets the conditions of Section 17-A of Chapter 676 of the Laws of 2002 when you provide services in a program authorized under that section, which does not include the word "psychology, psychological, or psychologist", and
• accept responsibility for your services while securing licensure-qualifying experience.

Acceptable experience must consist of a continuous experience. Experience in academic settings must consist of a continuous within a period of not less than one semester and, in the case of teaching experience, must consist of not less than six credit hours per semester.

Acceptable full-time experience gained prior to January 1, 1998 may consist of no more than 35 hours a week. For experience gained on or after January 1, 1998, full-time experience may consist of 35 to 45 hours a week.

Full-time experience must consist of at least 35 hours per week, and not more than 45 hours per week.

Acceptable part-time experience must consist of at least 16 hours, but no more than 34 hours a week and must be gained in a minimum of two days a week.

Supervision must be provided by a psychologist licensed in the jurisdiction where the supervised experience occurs. The supervisor must be the owner of, employed by, or be a consultant to the entity in which the experience occurs. In all settings in New York State, including exempt settings, as defined in section 7605(1) of the Education Law, the supervisor must be licensed and registered to practice psychology under Article 153 of the Education Law or have qualifications satisfactory to the department, based on a review of factors which include but are not limited to: educational attainment of the supervisor and position held by the supervisor.

For experience to be acceptable, the following requirements must be met:

• For every full-time experience, supervision must occur weekly and must include at  least one hour per week of individual, face-to-face supervision pertaining to services you provided and one additional hour of supervision which must be either face-to-face supervision, group supervision, seminars or workshops, or apprenticeship activities.
• For every part-time experience you must have two hours of supervision within every two-week period, one hour of which must be face-to-face supervision; and one  hour that must be either face-to-face supervision, group supervision, seminars or workshops, or apprenticeship activities .
• Face-to-face supervision as used in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) of this subparagraph may utilize technology acceptable to the Department, including secure video-conferencing to protect confidentiality.

Examination Requirements

You must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) developed by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) with a converted score of at least 75 as determined by the State Board for Psychology. New York State will only require EPPP (Part 1 – Knowledge) as a basis for licensure. EPPP (Part 2-Skills) has not been adopted in New York State.

To be eligible to sit for the examination you must:

• apply for licensure with the Department,
• pay the fee for initial licensure and the first registration, as prescribed in Education Law; and
• present satisfactory evidence of having  had a doctoral degree in psychology conferred and your education verified and approved by the Department.

When the Department has determined your eligibility, we will send notice of your eligibility to the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). Once ASPPB receives your information, you will receive an automated email from [email protected] notifying you that you can go online to register for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Follow the instructions in the email to create an on-line account. You must create the on-line account when you receive the email. You do not have to take the exam when you create the on-line account. After you establish your on-line account, you may take the exam whenever you choose. For more information go to: www.asppb.net/?page=EPPPSignup .

The examination is administered by:

Pearson Vue Pearson Vue EPPP Helpline Toll free: 800-513-6910 Toll: 952-905-7369 Mon.-Fri. 8 AM- 8 PM EST

NOTE: New York candidates may only take this exam four times a year.

For further information regarding the examination contact Pearson Vue (above) or ASPPB:

Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards P.O. Box 3079 Peachtree City, GA 30269 Phone: 678-216-1175

Reasonable Testing Accommodations

To receive special accommodations for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) you must:

• Indicate your need for reasonable testing accommodations by checking the appropriate box in item 21 of the Application for Licensure (Form 1) and send the Form 1, application fees and any other required application-related supporting documentation to the Office of the Professions at the address on the form. We will forward the Reasonable Testing Accommodations request form to you. (You can also request the form directly from the Bureau of Professional Examinations at [email protected] , by calling (518) 474-3817 ext. 290, by fax at (518) 473-8577 or print it from our Web site .)
• Complete the Reasonable Testing Accommodations request form and submit it and the required reasonable testing accommodation documentation to the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions at the address on the form.
• Complete the Special Accommodations Notification Form included with the examination application materials you receive from Pearson Vue and forward it with your examination application.

NOTE: If you are requesting reasonable accommodations, do not attempt to schedule a test appointment before forwarding your reasonable accommodations documentation and being informed that your request has been approved by New York State.

Applicants Licensed in Another Jurisdiction

If you are licensed in another jurisdiction, you must file a complete application for licensure and have supporting forms submitted to the Department. The Department may accept an examination that has been used for licensure in another jurisdiction. If you have taken the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and have received a score that is at or above the passing scaled score adopted by New York State for that administration of the examination, you should ask the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards to send your score to the Department. If your jurisdiction did not use the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology, you may ask them to submit a copy of the examination that you took to the Department. It will be reviewed to determine if it is comparable in content to the examination used by New York State.

You should submit Form 3 to all jurisdictions where you are or have been licensed and request that each jurisdiction complete the form.

New York State does not accept the Certificate of Professional Qualification (CPQ) for licensure purposes.

Licensure by Endorsement An applicant seeking endorsement of a license in psychology issued by another jurisdiction must present evidence of having completed 5 years of licensed practice in the 10 years prior to applying for licensure in New York State. You must have been licensed in the other jurisdiction by meeting the following requirements:

• be at least 21 years of age;
• hold a doctoral degree in psychology that at the time of completion qualified you for licensure as a psychologist in the other jurisdiction;
• complete supervised experience in psychology that qualified you for initial licensure in the other jurisdiction; and
• pass an examination acceptable to the New York State Education Department for the practice of psychology.

You must be of good moral character, as determined by the Department, and complete the required course work in the identification and reporting of child abuse or the exemption from such course work, as required in Section 6507(3) of the Education Law.

If you cannot certify 5 years of acceptable post-licensure experience in the 10 years prior to applying for a New York State license, you are not eligible for licensure by endorsement and must apply as an applicant for initial licensure. If your initial license in Psychology was issued by a jurisdiction that does not have significantly comparable licensure requirements to New York State, you will need to submit all the documentation required of an applicant for initial licensure, so that the Education Department can determine whether your qualifications are substantially equivalent to New York State's licensure requirements.

To apply for licensure by endorsement you must submit:

• an Application for Licensure ( Form 1 ) along with the $294 fee and identify the licensed colleague(s) in the other jurisdiction(s) that will attest to your 5 years of licensed practice; and
• a Certification of Professional Education ( Form 2 ); and
• verification of your licensure status from the jurisdiction in which you were initially licensed, and from any other jurisdiction in which you are or have been licensed. Each licensing authority must complete and submit a Verification of Other Professional Licensure/Certification ( Form 3 ); and
• a Certification of Licensed Experience ( Form 4F ) completed and submitted by the licensed psychologist or other licensed colleague in that jursidction who is attesting to your 5 years of post-licensure experience within the last 10 years.

In addition, you must have ASPPB submit your EPPP-1 examination scores to the Department. No other examination is acceptable (see Examination section).

Limited Permits

The Department may issue a limited permit to practice as a psychologist to an applicant:

• completed all doctoral degree requirements, including your doctoral dissertation, and
• met all other licensure requirements, including moral character, except for the examination and/or professional experience requirements.

A permit holder must work under the supervision of a New York State licensed and currently registered psychologist. A limited permit must be valid for a period of not more than 12 months. At the discretion of the Department and upon submission of a permit application and prescribed fee for each permit, the permit may be extended for no more than two additional 12-month periods. The time authorized by such permits must not exceed an aggregate of more than three years. The one-year extensions may be granted for good cause as determined by the Department.

You may apply for a limited permit at the same time or any time after you submit your Application for Licensure (Form 1) and initial licensure fee.

• with qualifications that have been approved for admission to the examination for licensure,
• who has resided in this state for a period of not more than six months prior to filing of such application and;
• whose education, experience and proof of residency has been received and approved by the Department.

The limited permit must be valid for a period of not more than 12 months, or until 10 days after notification to the applicant of failure of the professional licensing examination or until the results of a licensing examination for which the applicant is eligible are officially released, whichever comes first.

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Online PhD in Psychology

School of social and behavioral sciences.

Expand your opportunities for making a difference in people’s lives with a PhD in Psychology from Capella. Build expertise that matches your interests to help you prepare for the next phase of your career.

• PhD in Psychology

A flexible PhD in Psychology

The PhD in Psychology degree program provides students with advanced academic preparation with an emphasis on research and scholarship. Students pursue a specialization during which they engage in a competency-based, scholar-practitioner curriculum that can be applied within the field of psychology.

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

PhD in Psychology program overview

The PhD in Psychology program is designed to help you master psychology theory and practice, contribute original research and strengthen your ability to consult, teach or lead in diverse professional settings.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services and fiscal stability. See all our accreditations and recognitions .

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Capella scholarships and federal grants are funds that you don’t have to pay back.

• Capella Progress Rewards – These rewards are not need-based and are simply our way to support your commitment to your education. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.
• Student/Alumni Referral Scholarship – Capella students and alumni can refer eligible friends, family or colleagues to Capella to pursue a degree with a scholarship.

Previous experience

Get the credit you deserve. You may be able to save time and money on your Capella degree by transferring credits from an accredited university or getting credit for prior learning

*All transfer and Credit for Prior Learning credit must be completed prior to starting any program in the FlexPath format. Any professional certification or external courses taken concurrently with FlexPath enrollment cannot be recognized in the Capella degree program.

Military benefits

Military benefits may be available in select programs and learning formats for service members, veterans, their spouses and family members.

Employer benefits

Tuition discounts and scholarships are available for eligible employees of our partner organizations.

Program specializations

Various factors impact your time and cost to complete your degree, such as your program specialization. For more information, visit the PhD in Psychology specialization pages.

PhD in Psychology specializations

• General Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Expert advisory board

The purpose of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Advisory Board is to provide a critical link between the strategic objectives of the school and the needs of external constituents through input, insight, feedback and consultation. Board members have backgrounds in the fields of applied behavior analysis, clinical psychology, clinical mental health counseling, general psychology, marriage and family therapy, school counseling and school psychology.

The advisory board will help ensure that Capella University provides:

• Innovative, student-centered education that is competency-based, rigorous, relevant and transformative
• Preparation to help graduates be change makers in behavioral health to meet the needs of a diverse, ever-evolving society

PhD in Psychology outcomes

The PhD in Psychology program provides students with advanced academic preparation with an emphasis on research and scholarship. Students pursue a specialization during which they engage in a competency-based, scholar-practitioner curriculum that can be applied in a range of fields, including psychology, behavioral health, education, business and public policy. Successful graduates of this degree program will be prepared to apply psychological principles within the field of psychology.

Distinguished faculty

Our faculty bring a wealth of professional experiences to the classroom, with practical insights that can help you bridge the gap between learning in the classroom and working in the real world. They teach the skills you need right now and share their understanding of what it’s really like to work in your chosen profession.

1 86% of doctoral alumni agree that the Capella faculty were well qualified and did a good job.

Alumni Outcomes Survey, 2022–2023 

PhD in Psychology services and resources

Education isn’t one-size-fits-all – that’s why support is available to you at every step. From choosing your program and starting classes, to coursework assistance and graduation, our support teams are here for you.

Academic support

• One-on-one enrollment and advising support
• Writing center, online library and tutoring services
• Expert faculty with real-world knowledge

Financing support

• Assistance with the financial aid process
• Scholarships, transfer credits and credit for prior learning

Career support

• Resume help, interview prep and employer database of job listings
• One-on-one career coaching
• Learner & Alumni Networking Platform to connect in your field

Personal support

• Disability services
• Student communities and peer-to-peer mentoring
• 24/7 tech support

“My enrollment counselor at Capella made the process very easy and educated me on how my practical experience can be blended with my academic pursuits to further my career.”

Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel

PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

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As a graduate, you’ll have a community of Capella students, alumni and faculty you can tap into for career advice and networking.

1 87% of doctoral alumni agree that Capella provided the flexibility they needed to pursue their degree.

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Explore your career options, navigate your job search and move toward your goals with help from our Career Development Center . We offer a variety of resources, including one-on-one career coaching. Start planning early.

PhD or professional doctorate: which is best for you?

There are two kinds of doctoral degrees: PhDs and professional doctorates. Deciding which is right for you depends, in part, on how you want to use your education and the standards in your professional field. The kind of research that most interests you should also play a part in your decision. For either option, our GuidedPath learning format offers the flexibility to study when it works for you, with set deadlines to keep you focused and on track.

1 93% of alumni agree Capella provided the flexibility they needed to pursue their degrees.

Research focus: original or applied.

PhD students are expected to create, expand and contribute to knowledge, research and theory in their discipline. This kind of discovery is often called original research.

Professional doctorate students are expected to expand and apply existing knowledge and research to existing problems in their professional field. This is often referred to as applied research.

Final deliverable: dissertation or project?

PhD students summarize the findings of their research in a five-chapter paper called a dissertation. At completion, they must defend their work in front of a faculty committee. The dissertation is ultimately published and shared with other scholars in the field and the general public.

Professional doctorate students present their research in one of a variety of forms including projects, portfolios, journal articles or even dissertations. In some instances, students are required to defend their work in front of a faculty committee.

Frequently asked questions

How do i apply for the phd in psychology program.

Applicants to the PhD in Psychology program must provide the following information for admission:

• Admission application – no application fee required 
• A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or from an internationally recognized institution
• Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International applicants will be subject to additional admission requirements.

View full admission requirements for PhD in Psychology specializations: General Psychology , Developmental Psychology , Educational Psychology , Industrial/Organizational Psychology

International student requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about international student admissions .

What is a PhD in Psychology?

The online PhD in Psychology from Capella is for experienced professionals who want to build on their expertise and expand their opportunities for making a difference in people’s lives. Choose from four specializations that can help you build skills and knowledge in a specific area of focus.

What will I learn in the PhD in Psychology program?

Our faculty and students collaboratively explore the way humans, organizations and systems work and work together to promote optimal functioning. Using Capella’s competency-based curriculum design, the faculty focuses on assessing students on the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in the field of psychology.

Is the PhD in Psychology degree online or in person?

The PhD in Psychology is offered online in the GuidedPath learning format.

Learn more about the student experience at Capella and explore what additional support resources we offer to help you find and succeed in your degree program.

Additional PhD in Psychology resources

Explore your path in the field of psychology

Find ways to gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the field of psychology.

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The Counseling Psychology program, Ph.D.. is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). The following states accept APA accredited doctoral programs as meeting the educational requirements for licensure in that state: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wyoming.

The following states require additional education and experience in addition to graduation from an APA accredited program to meet the educational requirements for licensure in that state: Alaska, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin.

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• Program of Interest * Program of Interest* Certificate in Evidence Based Coaching Certificate in Media Psychology EdD in Leadership for Change MA in Applied Media Psychology MA in Organization Development & Leadership Neuropsychology Specialization Training Program PhD in Clinical Psychology PhD in Psychology PhD in Human Development PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development PhD in Psychology with an Emphasis in Media & Technology PhD in Organizational Development and Change Postbaccalaureate Certificate in Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Certificate of Respecialization in Clinical Psychology
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Licensed Psychologist

Typically, licensure in clinical psychology requires five steps. (1) First, the applicant for licensure must complete an approved education program.  APA accredited programs are recognized in all states although some states have additional education and training requirements. (2) Second, as part of the doctorate, complete a full-time one-year internship obtained through the APPIC (Association of Psychology and Postdoctoral Internship Centers) nationwide internship match. (3) Third, complete a one-year post-doctoral fellowship with supervised clinical experience under the appropriate license or registration for the state in which you plan to seek licensure (some states do not require a post-doc). (4) Fourth, take and pass the national licensure exam (EPPP—Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology) and any state examinations that are required. (5) Fifth, complete any additional requirements for the state in which you are seeking licensure (typically background checks and credential verifications; some states have additional requirements as well).

There are two programs offered by Fielding Graduate University within this licensed discipline of Clinical Psychology:

• The Clinical Psychology PhD program curriculum is designed to be consistent with APA accreditation guidelines; requirements for licensure usually are similar to APA accreditation guidelines, see lists below for state licensure information.
• The curriculum may not contain all of the pre-doctoral requirements for licensure in a given state, students are directed to review the information below to determine the status of this program in the state where they plan on practicing.
• The postdoctoral Respecialization in Clinical Psychology Certificate program curriculum is a subset of the Clinical Psychology curriculum.
• This Certificate program is designed to be consistent with APA accreditation guidelines; requirements for licensure usually are similar to APA accreditation guidelines, see lists below for state licensure information.
• Respecialization students may not have had all of the non-clinical coursework required for licensure in their doctoral programs.
• Students may not advertise themselves as psychologists (in the yellow pages, on business cards, or otherwise make public statements offering services) until they have received their license.
• Specific requirements for licensure vary from state to state and change over time.
• Licenses in other states are granted by the licensing authority in those individual states and those licensing boards might require an additional exam on laws and regulations specific to that state, as well as additional education requirements.
• Students may find the contact information and licensure requirements for the licensing authority in California and other jurisdictions by visiting the  Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) website .
• Prior to enrollment, prospective students must review the lists below to determine whether the program meets the  educational  requirements in a specific state where they are interested in practicing
• Fielding will provide licensing boards with official information to support graduates’ applications for licensure.
• For questions on the licensure process: contact the Program Director of the PhD Program at  [email protected] .

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Psychologist Licensing Process

All states license psychologists. At the least, they license those psychologists who sit down directly with clients and administer tests or carry out therapy. Some also license psychologists who act as consultants or work in other indirect roles.

• Psychologist License Requirements By State

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There are common components: In almost all cases, licensing is dependent on having a doctoral degree. In all cases, at least one examination is required. Supervised practice is required of psychologists who work in a direct health service role; in many states, it is required of anyone who wears the title ‘Licensed Psychologist’.

Despite the similarities, there can be significant differences in requirements and in how the process is carried out. Some states are more particular than others with regard to education and supervised practice requirements.

In many cases, individuals come under Board jurisdiction soon after they graduate – even though full licensure may be a year or two down the road.

Having the right doctoral degree can be important for licensing purposes. Some states require particular program-level accreditation, and many at least make the process easier for those who have it. Sometimes candidates are denied licensure because their program did not meet a residency requirement or other standard. Candidates whose doctoral programs and/or internships are not accredited by the American Psychological Association may need to submit materials like course catalogs and program brochures even if their programs are essentially equivalent. It is a good idea to visit the state licensing agency and study licensing requirements before enrolling.

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Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers online Bachelor’s and Master’s in Psychology programs with several emphases to select from as well as a CACREP accredited online Master’s in Counseling. Click here to learn about SNHU and their programs.

Supervised Practice

All states require supervised practice, at least for psychologists who provide mental health services. A majority specify that a certain number of hours take place after the doctoral degree is conferred.

Many states require graduates to register their supervision before they begin postgraduate supervised practice; a license application may be required at this stage. In some jurisdictions, residents or trainees are subject to regular evaluations.

Examination

All states utilize the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Most set the standard for passing at the same level: a scaled score of 500. State permission is required; typically this means beginning a license application file. In some states, a person may apply as soon as the doctoral degree is conferred. In others, the exam is not taken until supervised practice requirements have been met. States also have different policies about how long a person has to wait before retaking a failed examination.

State Examinations

Many states also have a jurisprudence and/ or oral examination. The jurisprudence examination covers state-specific laws and rules. It often covers the ethics code of the American Psychological Association (APA) and may include other generally accepted standards of practice.

Oral examinations vary widely from one state to the next. In jurisdictions that do not have a separate jurisprudence examination, the purpose may be to quiz the candidate on matters of law and ethics. Some states present detailed vignettes and expect candidates to respond to many nuances. In other instances, candidates are asked to submit their own work samples for scrutiny. One purpose can be to establish a psychologist’s scope of practice. Psychologists are ethically bound to practice independently only in those areas where they have adequate skills and knowledge.

Jurisdictions also take into account a professional’s character, reputation, and personal attributes. Some states require fingerprint-based criminal background checks. Some mandate that candidates submit professional and character references.

Some states ask for license verification not just of psychology licenses but of other mental health licenses – or even of all professional licenses the individual has held. The purpose is to ensure there has not been a history of discipline.

License Mobility

Psychology candidates who are considering relocation may want to study the license requirements of multiple states and plan accordingly ( http://www.apa.org/gradpsych/2004/01/get-licensed.aspx ).

A person who is licensed in at least one state and who practices the profession will find that minor differences in licensing requirements become less of an issue with time. However, many jurisdictions will deny licensure to candidates who were licensed under regulations that they deem “not substantially equivalent”.

Psychologists whose specialty lies too far outside the healthcare realm will not be eligible for licensure in all states; however, this does not mean they will not be eligible for employment.

Psychologist Licensure Requirements by State

• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• For Psychology Students
• Professional and Student Psychologist Organizations
• A comprehensive list of Psychologist and related professional and student organizations
• Types of Psychologists
• Sub-Specialties in Psychology
• Psychology Education Topics
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• The relationship between the study of Psychology and careers in the Criminal Justice field.
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• Psychologist versus Psychiatrist
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• Telepsychology
• The use of Skype and Other Telecommunications by Psychologists

Licensing and Registration

To learn more about the licensure process, select the type of license you wish to apply for from the list of professions below. 

The Board has made every effort to include the information you need to apply for licensure on this website. You can visit our  Help Center ,  FAQs  and  Resources  page for frequently asked questions, links, forms, applications and other helpful information.

Florida law provides that an initial application must be reviewed within 30 days. Below is the average number of days in which new applications are being reviewed and initial status notifications are being provided to applicants:

NOTICE: Effective July 1, 2022, SB 768, Department of Health , will impact   the education requirements for the Endorsement of 10 Years of Licensed Psychologist Experience Application Method . For this method only, the law redefines a “doctoral degree in psychology” as a Psy.D., Ed.D. in psychology, or a Ph.D. in psychology from a psychology program at an educational institution that, at the time the applicant was enrolled and graduated, had institutional accreditation from an agency recognized and approved by the United States Department of Education, or, was recognized as a member in good standing with the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada. Programmatic accreditation of the applicant’s doctoral degree in psychology, by the American Psychology Association (APA), will no longer be required for this application method as of the noted effective date. An updated application form reflecting these changes will be made available no later than July 1, 2022.

Psychologist Licensure by Examination

Requirements → Apply Online → Application (PDF)

Psychologist Licensure by Examination: Foreign Educated

Psychologist licensure by endorsement: abpp, psychologist licensure by endorsement: 10 years of experience, provisional psychologist, limited license psychologist, board approved continuing education provider.

Requirements → Apply Online →

Out-of-State Telehealth Provider Registration

Requirements → Apply  →

Looking to pursue a Florida Masters’s Level license?