Pennsylvania Psychology Licensure Requirements – How to Become a Psychologist in Pennsylvania for 2025

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People who suffer from mental health disorders need professional help to be able to identify the cause of their illness and receive the necessary treatment. Psychologists are one of the mental health professionals that can assist patients and guide them to become better. In the US, practicing psychology requires a license. Aspiring psychologists must look into the requirements of a psychology license in Pennsylvania to be able to practice in this state.

Psychologists in Pennsylvania earn an annual wage of $94,120, which is slightly higher than the national average of $85,330 (BLS, 2023). It is a good place for those who are planning to become a psychologist or attain a degree. This guide gives an overview of psychology practice in Pennsylvania and the steps on how to apply for a license. We also detailed the educational requirements needed for psychologists as well as the top programs you can consider. This can help you jumpstart your journey as a Pennsylvania psychologist.

Pennsylvania Psychology Licensure Requirements Table of Contents

Overview of the Psychology Industry in Pennsylvania
Educational Requirements for Psychology License in Pennsylvania
Application and Renewal Process of Psychology License in Pennsylvania
How to Choose the Right Pennsylvania Psychology Program for Your Career Goals
List of Top Psychology Programs in Pennsylvania for 2025
How Online PsyD Programs Can Support Your Path to Licensure in Pennsylvania
What are the emerging trends in psychology in Pennsylvania?
How Can an Integrated Behavior Analysis Approach Benefit Your Practice in Pennsylvania?
Is it Hard to Earn a Psychology Degree in Pennsylvania?
What are the key differences between a Licensed Psychologist and an LPC in Pennsylvania?
What Financial Resources Can Support Your Psychology Education in Pennsylvania?
What Are the Essential Steps to Become a School Psychologist in Pennsylvania?
What Are the Benefits of Continuing Education for Licensed Psychologists in Pennsylvania?
Could Combining Licensure with Counselor Credentials Accelerate Your Career in Pennsylvania?
Are There Other Licensure Options for Mental Health Professionals in Pennsylvania?
What are the career opportunities for psychologists in Pennsylvania beyond traditional roles?
How Can Certification Programs Complement Your Psychology Practice in Pennsylvania?
How Can a Forensic Psychology Degree Enhance Your Professional Practice in Pennsylvania?

Overview of the Psychology Industry in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is ideal for those who are starting one’s career in psychology, as the state offers many job opportunities for psychologists. In a study by Mental Health America, Pennsylvania has a ratio of 420:1 per mental health provider, indicating a shortage of professionals who can help individuals with their mental health disorders. This ratio is also slightly above the national average of 350:1 (2022).

In general, the job outlook of psychologists is seen to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032. Clinical and counseling psychologists have the highest employment in Pennsylvania (3,360) as well as school psychologists (2,420). The state also has 2,210 psychiatric technicians employed and 1,560 psychiatric aides (BLS, 2023). People seeking mental health professionals can verify a license through the Pennsylvania psychology license lookup on the state’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs website.

As one prepares to obtain a psychology license in Pennsylvania, one can choose a specialization to be able to hone their skills and receive better pay. There are online degree programs on industrial-organizational psychology and other areas of psychology. Clinical psychologists earn an average of $51 per hour or $105,494 annually while industrial-organizational psychologists receive an annual wage of $78,976 (ZipRecruiter, 2023). One can also look into the top 10 highest-paying jobs in psychology to have an idea of which specialization to choose.

The Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology is responsible for licensing, regulating, and disciplining psychologists in the state. They assess the qualifications and fitness of applicants for licensure and establish and enforce ethical standards for the practice of psychology in the state. In addition, the PA Board of Psychology conducts disciplinary actions against licensed psychologists who violate ethical standards or engage in unprofessional conduct.

Educational Requirements for Psychology License in Pennsylvania

To obtain a psychology license in Pennsylvania, one must have a doctorate degree in psychology. The program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA). There are many psychology programs in Pennsylvania that are accredited by the APA, with various specializations such as school psychology, clinical psychology, and counseling psychology (APA, 2022).

Those who do not have a bachelor’s degree yet can start looking into online behavioral psychology degree programs and other similar degrees in psychology. This can give you basic knowledge and skills in psychology that you can build on as you take advanced degrees. There are also master’s degree programs that can help you prepare for getting into a doctorate program. If you are interested in a specialization, you can look into sports psychology degree requirements or clinical psychology and other similar degrees.

Application and Renewal Process of Psychology License in Pennsylvania

It is important for aspiring psychologists who wish to practice in the US to check the psychologist licensure requirements by state as they may vary. Most states like Pennsylvania require applicants to have doctorate degrees, but there are a few states that accept master’s degree holders. Other Pennsylvania psychology license requirements include fees, exams, and criminal background checks.

Application Process

Earn a doctorate degree: Before sending a PA psychology license application, you must attain the required degrees such as a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and doctorate degree. You can look for the cheapest online masters in psychology as well as bachelor’s degrees. Ensure that the doctorate degree program you will choose is accredited by the APA or CPA.
Gain experience: Applicants need to acquire at least two years of supervised experience. The predoctoral internship can meet the requirements of the first year of experience, so one only needs to complete another year (1,500 hours in 12 months).
Complete the required Child Abuse Continuing Education units: The Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology requires applicants to complete three continuing education units focusing on child abuse recognition.
Undergo a criminal background check: Applicants must submit a Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) request to the Pennsylvania State Police. The report must be dated within 90 days of submitting the application.
Pay the fees and submit the application: The cost of the initial application is $105. The application itself can be done online through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS).
Take the exams: The Board will notify applicants once they are eligible to take the required exams. Applicants must take and obtain a passing score in the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Pennsylvania Psychology Law Examination to be eligible for a psychology license in Pennsylvania. Note that psychologists who hold a license from another state may be eligible for Pennsylvania psychology license reciprocity. This means they can be exempt from retaking the EPPP.

Renewal Process

Learn when to renew: A psychology license in Pennsylvania expires every November 30th of every odd-numbered year. Licensed psychologists receive a notice from the Board via email two months before their license expires.
Fulfill continuing education requirements: Psychologists need to acquire at least 30 contact hours of continuing education. Three of these contact hours must be in ethics, one hour for suicide prevention, and two hours in child abuse recognition. The Board has a list of sponsors or providers of continuing education units that psychologists can choose from. They also recognize courses from any provider approved by the APA.
Pay the fee: The PA psychology license renewal fee is $300.

How to Choose the Right Pennsylvania Psychology Program for Your Career Goals

Selecting the right psychology program in Pennsylvania can shape the foundation of your future career, making it crucial to align your educational pathway with your professional aspirations. With a variety of programs available, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees, and diverse specializations like clinical, industrial-organizational, and positive psychology, conducting thorough research can help you make an informed decision.

When choosing a program, consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum focus, faculty expertise, and available opportunities for internships and hands-on training. Accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) or other recognized institutions ensures the program meets the highest educational standards required for Pennsylvania licensure. Programs with comprehensive practicum and internship components are particularly beneficial because they provide the supervised experience mandated by the state licensing board.

Moreover, students should evaluate the program's alignment with their long-term career goals. For instance, aspiring clinical psychologists might prioritize programs emphasizing mental health services and evidence-based therapy approaches, while those interested in educational psychology should look for curricula focusing on learning processes and developmental assessments.

To assist in narrowing down your options, explore this curated list of the best colleges for psychology in Pennsylvania. It highlights some of the top institutions in Pennsylvania known for their robust psychology programs, setting you on the right path for a successful career in psychology.

List of Top Psychology Programs in Pennsylvania for 2025

The first step toward the goal of obtaining a psychology license in Pennsylvania is to study psychology. There are degree programs that show what a child psychologist does or how humans behave the way they do. It is important to choose the degree program that reflects your interests and teaches you the skills and knowledge you need in the field. Here are some of the top programs you can find in Pennsylvania.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a Clinical Psychology PsyD program for eligible students who wish to become clinical psychologists. Bachelor degree holders are welcome to apply as the program lets students earn a master’s degree along with the doctorate degree. The class size is kept at an average of 15 students per year to ensure that each one is given the support they need. The program has a predoctoral internship to fulfill the requirements for a psychology license in Pennsylvania.

Program Length: 5 years (including 12 months of predoctoral internship)
Cost per Credit: $516 (in-state), $774 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 99
Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)

Pennsylvania State University, also known as Penn State, has a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program with two tracks: Adult track and Child track. It is a long-standing program that has been accredited by the APA since the 1940s. Coursework emphasizes research and the ability to apply clinical science concepts in actual practice. The adult track covers mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and addiction. The child track lets students have specialized training in mental health services for children and their families.

Program Length: 6-7 years (including one year of predoctoral internship)
Cost per Credit: $700 (in-state), $1,175 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 70
Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA), Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS)

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania has a Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program, the first of its kind to be offered anywhere in the world. Students learn the concept of positive psychology from the founder himself, Dr. Martin Seligman, who is among the MAPP faculty. This one-year program also gives students the opportunity to apply positive psychology in various organizations and workplaces. The MAPP program has over 600 graduates in its alumni network.

Program Length: 1 year
Cost per Credit: $7,282
Required Credits to Graduate: 9
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Widener University

Widener University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program with an accelerated option to obtain a master’s degree. The program lets students do scientific research work while honing their critical thinking and communication skills. Students will explore the various domains of psychology such as developmental, social, and applied psychology. Graduates can then pursue further studies if they aim to obtain a psychology license in Pennsylvania.

Program Length: 4 years
Cost per Credit: $1,676
Required Credits to Graduate: 121-122
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

University of Pittsburg

The University of Pittsburgh offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology program that is part of the liberal arts program in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. The program focuses on developing strong research and analytical skills and introduces students to various psychological topics, including the biological, social, and environmental influences on behavior. Students can then take up graduate degrees upon finishing the program and work on applying for a psychology license in Pennsylvania.

Program Length: 4 years
Cost per Credit: $672 (Pennsylvania residents); $1,284 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

How Online PsyD Programs Can Support Your Path to Licensure in Pennsylvania

Pursuing a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree is a critical step toward obtaining a psychology license in Pennsylvania. For many aspiring psychologists, balancing education with personal and professional responsibilities can be challenging. Fortunately, online PsyD programs offer a flexible and accessible pathway to achieving your career goals without compromising on quality.

Why Choose an Online PsyD Program?

Online PsyD programs provide a unique combination of flexibility and rigorous training, making them an excellent option for busy professionals or those living in areas without easy access to top-tier universities. These programs often include asynchronous learning modules, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace. Additionally, online PsyD programs maintain the same accreditation standards as their on-campus counterparts, ensuring that graduates meet Pennsylvania's licensure requirements.

Key Benefits of Online PsyD Programs:

Flexibility: Study on your schedule while maintaining work or family commitments.
Accessibility: Access programs from top institutions without relocating.
Cost-Effectiveness: Save on commuting and housing expenses.

Accreditation and Licensure Alignment

When choosing an online PsyD program, ensure it is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or other recognized accrediting bodies. Accreditation is essential for meeting Pennsylvania’s licensure requirements, which mandate a doctorate from an APA- or CPA-accredited institution. Many online programs also include built-in practicum and internship components, allowing students to gain the supervised experience necessary for licensure.

For example, several programs emphasize clinical skills and prepare students to excel in various specializations, such as trauma-informed care, forensic psychology, or child psychology. These specializations align with emerging trends in Pennsylvania, making online PsyD graduates well-equipped to meet the state’s growing demand for mental health professionals.

Explore Affordable Online PsyD Programs

If you're considering this flexible educational pathway, explore some of the best online PsyD programs to find options that match your goals and budget. Choosing the right program can set you on a path to success, ensuring you are well-prepared for licensure and a fulfilling career in psychology.

What are the emerging trends in psychology in Pennsylvania?

Emerging trends in the field of psychology can significantly impact the practice and career opportunities for psychologists in Pennsylvania. Understanding these trends can help future psychologists stay ahead in the industry and better serve the mental health needs of the population. Here are some emerging trends in psychology in Pennsylvania:

Integration of telepsychology: The demand for telepsychology services has risen dramatically, particularly in response to the increased need for remote mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telepsychology offers greater access to care, especially for individuals in rural or underserved areas. It also provides a flexible treatment option for clients who may face barriers to in-person therapy.
Focus on trauma-informed care: Trauma-informed care is gaining importance in psychology practices across Pennsylvania. Given the increase in awareness about the effects of trauma on mental health, more psychologists are incorporating trauma-focused approaches in their treatment plans. This trend is particularly relevant in settings such as schools, community centers, and correctional facilities.
Growth of integrative and holistic approaches: There is a growing interest in holistic and integrative approaches that combine traditional psychological practices with complementary therapies, such as mindfulness, yoga, and nutritional counseling. These approaches aim to treat the whole person by addressing physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Increased emphasis on diversity and cultural competency: As Pennsylvania's population becomes more diverse, there is a greater need for culturally competent psychologists who can work effectively with clients from various backgrounds. This trend includes integrating cultural sensitivity training into educational programs and promoting diversity in the workforce.
Expansion of forensic psychology: The demand for forensic psychologists is on the rise due to the increasing need for psychological assessments in legal settings, including child custody cases, competency evaluations, and criminal cases. Forensic psychology programs and certifications are gaining popularity as more professionals seek to specialize in this area.
Mental health support in educational settings: There is a growing trend toward employing psychologists in schools to address student mental health, behavioral issues, and learning disabilities. School psychologists are playing a more significant role in creating supportive learning environments and developing intervention strategies for students.
Use of data-driven approaches and artificial intelligence: Data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) are being increasingly used to enhance mental health assessments and treatment outcomes. Predictive analytics can help identify individuals at risk for mental health issues, while AI-based tools assist in developing personalized treatment plans.

How Can an Integrated Behavior Analysis Approach Benefit Your Practice in Pennsylvania?

Incorporating behavior analysis into your practice can enhance therapeutic effectiveness by introducing systematic, data-driven strategies that address behavioral challenges in diverse client populations. This approach provides a complementary methodology to traditional psychological interventions, leading to comprehensive treatment solutions and expanded interdisciplinary opportunities. Professionals can leverage specialized training to design targeted behavior modification plans and improve overall client outcomes. For further guidance on certification paths and expanding this skillset, review how to become a BCBA in Pennsylvania.

Is it Hard to Earn a Psychology Degree in Pennsylvania?

Pursuing a psychology degree involves rigorous coursework, extensive research projects, and clinical training that demand strong academic preparation and time management skills. Many candidates evaluate whether they can balance the theoretical and practical components while also meeting state licensure requirements. In Pennsylvania, program expectations are aligned with nationally accredited standards, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for both professional practice and advanced study. For further insights into these academic challenges, consider reviewing Is it hard to earn a psychology degree?.

What are the key differences between a Licensed Psychologist and an LPC in Pennsylvania?

Licensed Psychologists in Pennsylvania are required to hold a doctoral degree and complete extensive supervised clinical and research training, which prepares them for a wider range of psychological assessments and advanced therapeutic interventions. In contrast, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) typically earn a master’s degree, focus primarily on counseling and talk therapy, and follow a distinct regulatory framework. Understanding these differences is crucial to determining the most suitable career pathway. For additional guidance on licensure pathways and specialized requirements, review how to become an LPC in Pennsylvania.

What Financial Resources Can Support Your Psychology Education in Pennsylvania?

Exploring financial support options is essential for managing the costs associated with advanced psychology education in Pennsylvania. Research targeted scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs, including FAFSA and work-study opportunities, designed to assist students in covering tuition and related expenses. Evaluate loan repayment and forgiveness programs that cater specifically to mental health professionals to ensure financial sustainability throughout your training. Additionally, engaging with university financial offices can reveal assistantships or merit-based awards tailored to specific areas of psychology. For alternative career pathways in mental health, consider reviewing what degree do you need to be a social worker in Pennsylvania to access comparable financial assistance and academic insights.

What Are the Essential Steps to Become a School Psychologist in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, school psychologists are uniquely positioned to bridge educational and mental health services. Candidates must complete a specialized academic program that integrates advanced coursework with targeted practicum experiences in a school setting. This pathway includes rigorous training in psychological assessment, intervention strategies tailored to student populations, and collaboration with educational professionals. Prospective school psychologists are encouraged to verify program accreditation and state-specific certification criteria to ensure compliance with licensing standards. For a detailed overview of the process, review how to become a school psychologist in Pennsylvania.

What Are the Benefits of Continuing Education for Licensed Psychologists in Pennsylvania?

Licensed psychologists are required to engage in ongoing education to maintain licensure, stay updated on evolving clinical practices, and meet ethical standards. Continuing education programs provide opportunities to deepen expertise, learn about emerging therapeutic techniques, and expand professional networks. This commitment to professional development not only supports licensure renewal requirements but also strengthens service delivery across diverse practice settings. For instance, specialized training in areas such as forensic and criminal psychology can enhance your analytical skills and open new career avenues, as detailed in how to become a criminal psychologist in Pennsylvania.

Could Combining Licensure with Counselor Credentials Accelerate Your Career in Pennsylvania?

Integrating counselor credentials with your psychologist license can offer strategic advantages, including enhanced marketability and a diversified scope of practice in Pennsylvania’s competitive mental health landscape. This approach allows professionals to tap into broader patient bases and interdisciplinary opportunities while meeting state requirements efficiently. By leveraging accelerated credentialing programs—such as the shortest path to become a counselor in Pennsylvania—you may streamline your transition into roles that require dual competency, ultimately reducing downtime between training and active practice. Such strategic integration not only addresses immediate workforce demands but also positions you for long-term career growth in a dynamic healthcare environment.

Are There Other Licensure Options for Mental Health Professionals in Pennsylvania?

For individuals interested in pursuing a career in mental health but not necessarily as a licensed psychologist, there are other licensure options available in Pennsylvania. One such option is the MFT license in Pennsylvania, which allows professionals to practice as marriage and family therapists. This licensure path requires a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, as well as completion of supervised clinical hours and passage of a licensure exam. By exploring these alternative licensure options, individuals can find the best fit for their career goals and pursue a rewarding career in mental health in Pennsylvania.

What are the career opportunities for psychologists in Pennsylvania beyond traditional roles?

Psychology is a versatile field with a wide range of career opportunities that extend beyond traditional therapy and clinical positions. In Pennsylvania, psychologists can pursue roles in industries such as business, education, government, and research, where their skills in human behavior, cognition, and decision-making are highly valued.

One of the key areas seeing significant growth is business psychology. Organizational psychologists are in demand to help businesses optimize employee performance, increase productivity, and enhance workplace culture. They may be involved in employee selection, leadership development, team dynamics, and conflict resolution. Pennsylvania’s thriving business hubs, especially in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, offer a wealth of opportunities for those with expertise in industrial-organizational psychology.

Additionally, many psychologists work in academic and research settings, either as faculty members at universities or as researchers in private or government-funded labs. These positions allow psychologists to contribute to the advancement of the field, focusing on everything from cognitive development to neuropsychology and educational psychology. Educational psychology professionals, for example, work closely with schools and educational institutions in Pennsylvania to improve teaching methods, support students with learning disabilities, and help design effective curricula.

Public policy is another area where psychologists can make an impact. Many psychologists work with government agencies or nonprofit organizations, using their knowledge to advise on mental health policies, create public health campaigns, or assist in crisis management. These roles are vital in shaping state-level initiatives to improve the overall well-being of communities.

For those interested in broadening their career opportunities, pursuing an affordable online master's in organizational psychology can help build the necessary skills to succeed in these alternative paths. This flexible and cost-effective route can help aspiring psychologists expand their expertise, making them more competitive in the diverse job market of Pennsylvania.

How Can Certification Programs Complement Your Psychology Practice in Pennsylvania?

Pursuing additional certifications can expand your scope of practice and reinforce your professional credentials. Certification programs provide specialized training in fields such as forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and crisis intervention, enabling you to address specific community needs. They also offer advanced hands-on learning, targeted workshops, and mentorship opportunities that support continued professional development. For practitioners interested in diversifying their expertise, exploring options on how to become a substance abuse counselor in Pennsylvania can lead to enhanced service offerings and better client outcomes. Evaluating program accreditation and adherence to state regulations ensures that these certifications effectively complement your licensure and practice in Pennsylvania.

How Can a Forensic Psychology Degree Enhance Your Professional Practice in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania’s diverse professional landscape, a specialization in forensic psychology offers a strategic advantage. By integrating clinical expertise with legal principles, professionals can engage in activities such as behavioral risk assessments, expert testimony, and legal consulting. This specialization not only broadens career opportunities in academic, clinical, and governmental settings but also meets the growing demand for multidisciplinary approaches to complex legal and mental health issues. Pursuing a forensic psychology degree equips practitioners with advanced analytical and evaluative skills, ensuring rigorous adherence to ethical standards while enhancing the overall impact of psychological services in legal contexts.

Take the First Step Toward Becoming a Licensed Psychologist

Obtaining a psychology license in Pennsylvania is a rigorous process that requires a doctoral degree in psychology, passing national and state examinations, and fulfilling a postdoctoral practice requirement. Becoming a licensed psychologist also gives one the opportunity to work in a variety of settings such as private practice, schools, and research institutions, especially for those who are industrial-organizational psychology degree holders or other specializations. As such, the lengthy licensing process is worthwhile for those who are passionate about helping others and want to make a difference in their lives.

Key Insights

High Earning Potential: Psychologists in Pennsylvania earn an average annual wage of $94,120, which is higher than the national average of $85,330.
Significant Demand: There is a notable shortage of mental health providers in Pennsylvania, with a ratio of 420:1, indicating strong job opportunities for psychologists.
Diverse Specializations: Specializations such as clinical psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and school psychology offer various career paths and salary prospects.
Rigorous Licensing Requirements: Aspiring psychologists must earn a doctoral degree in psychology, complete supervised experience, pass national and state examinations, and fulfill continuing education requirements.
Top Educational Programs: Notable programs in Pennsylvania include those at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, University of Pennsylvania, Widener University, and University of Pittsburgh, each offering unique strengths and specializations.
Renewal and Continuing Education: Licensed psychologists in Pennsylvania must renew their licenses biennially and complete continuing education credits, including specific hours in ethics, suicide prevention, and child abuse recognition.

FAQ

What educational requirements must be met to obtain a psychology license in Pennsylvania? To obtain a psychology license in Pennsylvania, you must have a doctoral degree in psychology from an American Psychological Association (APA) or Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) accredited program. Additionally, a bachelor's and master's degree are typically prerequisites before pursuing the doctorate.
What is the average salary for psychologists in Pennsylvania? The average annual wage for psychologists in Pennsylvania is $94,120, which is higher than the national average of $85,330.
What is the job outlook for psychologists in Pennsylvania? The job outlook for psychologists is expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032. There is a significant demand for mental health professionals in Pennsylvania, indicated by the high provider-to-population ratio of 420:1.
What are the key steps in the application process for a psychology license in Pennsylvania? Key steps include earning a doctoral degree in psychology, gaining two years of supervised experience, completing child abuse continuing education units, undergoing a criminal background check, paying application fees, and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Pennsylvania Psychology Law Examination.
How often do psychology licenses need to be renewed in Pennsylvania, and what are the continuing education requirements? Psychology licenses in Pennsylvania expire every November 30th of every odd-numbered year. Psychologists must complete 30 contact hours of continuing education, including three hours in ethics, one hour in suicide prevention, and two hours in child abuse recognition.
What specializations are available within the field of psychology in Pennsylvania? Specializations include clinical psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, school psychology, and counseling psychology, among others. Each specialization offers different career paths and salary prospects.
Can you practice psychology in Pennsylvania with a master's degree? Most states, including Pennsylvania, require a doctoral degree to practice as a licensed psychologist. However, some states may allow master's degree holders to practice in certain roles or under supervision.
What are some top psychology programs in Pennsylvania? Notable programs include the Clinical Psychology PsyD at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, the Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Penn State, the Master of Applied Positive Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Widener University, and the Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh.