Best Psychology Schools in Alabama – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

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Alabama is currently ranked as one of the worst states in the United States (US) for individuals experiencing mental health struggles. In 2022, the Yellowhammer State placed 47th for adults and 20th for its youth in terms of mental illness prevalence and access to care (Mental Health America, 2022). The alarming situation is a desperate call to practicing and aspiring professionals in the field of psychology. Fortunately, psychology schools in Alabama are well-equipped to help increase the number of licensed psychologists in the state.

Our team at Research.com created this in-depth guide to psychology schools. In this discussion, we will take a deep dive into the criteria for determining the best psychology degrees and academic institutions for you and how to get your license in the state.

Best Psychology Schools in Alabama Table of Contents

Is Psychologist a good job in Alabama?
What are the steps to becoming a Psychologist in Alabama?
Psychology Program Length in Alabama
Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Alabama
Alabama Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025
What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Alabama
Are accelerated psychology programs available for students in Alabama?
How viable is a career in criminal psychology in Alabama?
What are common challenges psychology students face in Alabama, and how can they be overcome?
Understanding Alabama’s Licensing Pathways in Psychology
What are the steps to become a school psychologist in Alabama?
What is the pathway to become a substance abuse counselor in Alabama?
Can Psychology Graduates Transition into Forensic Science in Alabama?
What Are Emerging Lucrative Career Opportunities for Psychology Graduates in Alabama?
What are the requirements to pursue a career in behavior analysis in Alabama?
How Can Online Education Expand Opportunities for Aspiring School Psychologists in Alabama?
What Are the Continuing Education and Profession al Development Options for Licensed Psychologists in Alabama?
How Can a Counseling Career Accelerate Impact on Alabama’s Mental Health Services?
How Can Mental Health Counseling Careers Address Alabama’s Community Needs?

Is Psychologist a good job in Alabama?

Licensed professionals in the field of psychology in Alabama have a high earning potential when compared to the typical annual expenses of residents. The state also offers numerous job opportunities for aspiring professionals in the field considering the increase in demand for mental-healthcare providers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cost of Living. Single Alabama residents without children need a minimum gross annual income of $32,547 to make ends meet in the state. The figure already includes housing ($7,954), food ($3,926), and transportation ($5,477) (Glasmeier & Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2023).
Income Potential. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Alabama had an estimated median annual wage of $70,195.2 in 2022 [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023]. The amount is more than twice the standard cost of living ($32,547) for single, childless residents in the state.
Career Opportunities. Careers in psychology in Alabama may be abundant considering the several specializations in the field and the industries that need them. A bachelor’s degree in psychology may help you land an entry-level position as you begin your career. However, aspiring psychologists are required to earn advanced degrees to become eligible for licensure.

What are the steps to becoming a Psychologist in Alabama?

Becoming a licensed psychologist may require you to allocate a large share of your resources to be able to complete each step of the process. You will need to finish an undergraduate program and a doctoral program before becoming eligible to take the licensure examinations. If you aim to become one of Alabama’s 340 clinical and counseling psychologists or 220 school psychologists (US BLS, 2023), explore the following steps to get yourself started on your career goals and preferences.

Earn an accredited bachelor’s degree in psychology. You may earn a bachelor’s degree from one of the accredited psychology schools in Alabama. Individuals who are not psychology majors but have a bachelor’s degree in a related field may also qualify for graduate programs in psychology. However, they may need to take prerequisite psychology courses to meet academic standards. You may also decide to complete a master’s level program, but it is not a requirement for licensure.
Complete a doctoral program in psychology. You may choose among the psychology PhD or PsyD programs in Alabama. Once you get accepted into a doctoral program, you may be required to choose among the available specializations, which may include child psychology, clinical psychology, and counseling psychology. Notably, you must already be certain of the concentration that you aim to specialize in before you begin applying for graduate programs.
Finish and submit your application to the Board. You must first request an application for the licensure examinations from the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology. Then, complete and submit the application form and other requirements, such as references, official transcripts, and the application fee, to the Board.
Pass the licensure examinations. Alabama has two licensure tests: the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Professional Standards Exam (PSE). The EPPP comprehensively covers topics in the field of psychology, while the PSE covers the ethical and legal aspects of the job of psychologists. After passing these tests, the Board will inform you of the issuance of your license and then you may be legally allowed to practice as a psychologist in Alabama.

What career paths can psychology graduates pursue in Alabama?

Graduates with psychology degrees in Alabama have a variety of career paths available to them, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in diverse settings. Here are some potential career options:

Clinical Psychologist: Provide therapy and assessment services to individuals struggling with mental health issues in private practices, hospitals, or clinics. This role often requires a doctorate and licensure.
Counseling Psychologist: Work with clients to help them navigate personal challenges, such as relationship issues, academic pressures, or career changes, often in educational institutions or private practice.
School Psychologist: Collaborate with educators, parents, and students to address learning and behavioral issues within school settings, requiring a master's or doctoral degree and specialized training.
Industrial-Organizational Psychologist: Focus on improving workplace productivity and employee satisfaction by applying psychological principles in business settings, typically requiring a master's or doctoral degree.
Researcher or Academic: Conduct research in psychology or teach at colleges and universities, contributing to the advancement of psychological knowledge and practice.
Mental Health Counselor: Provide support to individuals with mental health issues in community organizations or non-profits, often requiring a master's degree and licensure.
Forensic Psychologist: Work within the legal system to provide psychological evaluations and expert testimony, often requiring specialized training and education.

Psychology Program Length in Alabama

Psychology schools in Alabama may require their bachelor’s degree students to earn 120 credits of general education and core courses, which may take four years to finish for full-time students. Meanwhile, a PhD in psychology and PsyD programs may take five to seven years, considering that their curricula may include internships and dissertations.

Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Alabama

Undergraduate students of psychology schools in Alabama may be required to pay between $545 and $1,243 if they are residents of the state. Meanwhile, non-resident undergraduate students may be charged between $1,070.4 and $1,425. In contrast, resident graduate students may spend between $635 and $757.67, while non-resident graduate students may pay between $757.67 and $1,660.

Tuition for out-of-state students of psychology schools in Alabama is generally higher than that of in-state students due to the taxes required to be covered by non-residents. Moreover, these figures may not include other personal and academic expenses, such as housing, meals, transportation, books and supplies, and technological costs. To help you fund your education, you may check out scholarship programs offered by your preferred academic institutions, your place of employment, government agencies, or private organizations.

Alabama Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025

Psychology schools in Alabama have designed their degree programs to ensure that their graduates are prepared for licensure and practice. The following accredited academic institutions across Alabama offer psychology programs that equip their students with the fundamentals of the field at the undergraduate level as well as advanced concepts and skills at the graduate level. Check them out to start your career in psychology and achieve compensation levels that are as much as, if not more than, the estimated $70,195.2 median annual wage of clinical and counseling psychologists in 2022 (US BLS, 2023).

1. University of Alabama

Established in 1937, the University of Alabama’s Department of Psychology offers both on-campus undergraduate and graduate programs in the field. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), while its degree programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Programs Available:

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Neuroscience
Minor in Psychology
Minor in Neuroscience
PhD in Psychology

Graduate Specializations Available:

Clinical Psychology
Cognitive Psychology
Developmental Psychology
Social Psychology

2. Samford University

Located in the city of Homewood, Alabama, Samford University’s Howard College of Arts and Sciences provides applicants with options to earn an on-campus bachelor’s degree in psychology or neuroscience either as a major or a minor. Samford students are currently required to pay $1,243 per credit. Moreover, the university is accredited by the SACSCOC.

Programs Available:

BA in Psychology
BS in Psychology
BS in Neuroscience
Minor in Psychology
Minor in Neuroscience

3. Birmingham-Southern College

Located in the city of Birmingham, Alabama, Birmingham-Southern College’s Department of Psychology offers diverse educational paths for undergraduate students pursuing a career in psychology. Costing between $1,750 and $3,583 per course, the college’s psychology program enables students to receive education based on the occupation that they prefer after graduation—be it a teacher, a medical doctor, or a physical therapist, among other related professions. Moreover, Birmingham is accredited by the SACSCOC.

Programs Available:

General Four-year plan
Pre-Clinical Psychology/Counseling
Pre-Academic
Pre-Health with a Psychology Major
Pre-Med with a Psychology Major
Physical Therapy with a Psychology Major
Pre-Nursing with a Psychology Major
Pre-Health with a Psychology Major (General)

4. University of South Alabama

Founded in 1963, the University of South Alabama houses a psychology department that offers on-campus degree programs at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Resident students may be required to pay $11,620 annually. In contrast, non-resident students may spend $22,730 annually. Located in the city of Mobile, Alabama, the university is accredited by the SACSCOC, while its programs are accredited by the APA.

Programs Available:

Bachelor’s in Psychology
Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s in Psychology
Master of Science in Psychology, with an Emphasis in Behavioral and Brain Sciences
PhD in Clinical and Counseling Psychology

5. Auburn University

Auburn University’s Department of Psychological Sciences is one of the psychology schools in Alabama with an extensive selection of programs in the field. It offers undergraduate programs, master’s programs, and doctoral programs on campus. For tuition and fees, the university may require resident students to pay $5,352 per semester and non-resident students to pay $16,056 per semester. Auburn is accredited by the SACSCOC, while its programs are accredited by the APA.

Programs Available:

BA in Psychology
BS in Neuroscience
Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Doctoral Program in Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences
Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology
Doctoral Program in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Alabama

Higher education involves making many crucial decisions that largely impact your future. Thus, you must thoroughly research the psychology schools in Alabama to determine which is the best for you. The following criteria may help you weigh your options.

Accreditation. Accreditation demonstrates the quality of psychology programs. Getting approval from official accrediting agencies means that academic institutions offer curricula, facilities, and faculty members that meet the standard requirements for providing you with the necessary education and training. These agencies may include the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the SACSCOC, and the APA, which is specifically for psychology programs.
Affordability. You must consider your financial standing first before you spend on your education. If your budget is inadequate, you may want to consider applying for scholarship programs or choosing a less expensive accredited program and institution. Knowing that you can afford your school may mean avoiding taking out student loans.
Accessibility. Ensure that you are able to easily access your academic institution and degree program. Individuals applying for in-person programs must have housing that is located at a fair distance from their school. If not, they may ensure that they have safe options for modes of transportation. If you are aiming for online programs, secure the appropriate technological requirements of your school, which may include reliable computers and a stable internet connection.

Are accelerated psychology programs available for students in Alabama?

For students in Alabama seeking a quicker path to a psychology career, pursuing an accelerated psychology degree online can be a practical and efficient option. These programs are designed to help students complete their degree faster than traditional timelines, making them ideal for individuals eager to enter the workforce or pursue advanced studies.

Benefits of Accelerated Psychology Degree Programs:

Shortened Time to Completion: Accelerated programs often compress course schedules, allowing students to finish their bachelor's degree in as little as 18 months compared to the typical 4 years.
Flexibility for Busy Schedules: Online programs provide the flexibility to complete coursework from anywhere, making them suitable for working adults or those with family commitments.
Cost Savings: By completing your degree faster, you may reduce overall tuition costs and other expenses associated with prolonged study.

How viable is a career in criminal psychology in Alabama?

Pursuing a career in criminal psychology offers a distinct pathway for psychology graduates seeking specialized opportunities within the criminal justice system. This field focuses on analyzing criminal behavior, contributing expert insights to investigations, and aiding in the rehabilitation of offenders. It requires advanced training and targeted certifications that distinguish practitioners in a competitive labor market. Individuals interested in this niche should evaluate programs with forensic components, ensuring they meet the rigorous demands of both psychological theories and legal standards. For guidance on exploring this specialization, learn more about how to become a criminal psychologist in Alabama.

What are common challenges psychology students face in Alabama, and how can they be overcome?

Pursuing a degree in psychology can be rewarding, but students in Alabama, like anywhere else, face unique challenges. Understanding these hurdles and learning strategies to overcome them can significantly impact academic and career success.

Balancing Clinical Training with Coursework: Psychology programs often require a combination of academic coursework and practical training. This dual requirement can be demanding, especially for students juggling part-time or full-time jobs. To manage this, students should develop strong time-management skills, prioritize tasks, and seek support from program advisors who can help balance responsibilities.
Finding Suitable Internships: Securing quality internships is essential for hands-on experience and eventual licensure. However, competition can be fierce, and opportunities may be limited. To overcome this, students should start networking early by attending conferences, joining psychology organizations, and collaborating with faculty members who may have connections to local clinics and hospitals.
Managing Academic Pressure: The rigorous nature of psychology programs, particularly in graduate studies, can lead to stress and burnout. Students should utilize university resources like counseling services and wellness programs to stay mentally healthy. Joining study groups and seeking mentorship from peers or professors can also provide emotional support and practical guidance.
Navigating the Licensing Process: Becoming a licensed psychologist in Alabama involves passing the EPPP and PSE exams, which can be intimidating. Preparing well in advance and taking advantage of preparatory courses offered by the school or through professional associations can make this process smoother. Additionally, forming study groups with classmates can foster a supportive learning environment.
Accessing Financial Support: Tuition and living expenses can be a significant burden, especially for full-time students. Seeking scholarships, grants, and part-time work opportunities can help ease financial stress. Many universities offer financial aid specifically for psychology students, so it's important to research these options early. For those considering a more affordable path, exploring human services major careers might provide alternative education and career opportunities that align with similar skill sets at a lower cost.

Understanding Alabama’s Licensing Pathways in Psychology

For psychology graduates aiming to practice in Alabama, understanding the licensing process is a critical step toward entering the field as a qualified professional. The requirements vary depending on your specific career goals within psychology, and advanced degrees accompanied by relevant supervised experience are often necessary. For those pursuing careers as licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs), it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific MFT licensing requirements in Alabama. This comprehensive understanding can streamline your journey toward becoming a licensed professional and entering an impactful career supporting individuals and families in the state.

Obtaining licensure in Alabama often involves completing a bachelor's degree, followed by a master's or doctoral degree in your chosen specialization. Additionally, extended supervised practice hours and passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) are standard for many pathways. By aligning your educational and professional experiences with state guidelines, you can be well-prepared to contribute to Alabama's growing demand for skilled mental health professionals while navigating the complexities of state licensure. Ensuring thorough preparation will not only improve licensure success rates but also open doors to diverse opportunities in education, research, clinical work, and community-based practices.

Help Address the State of Mental Health in Alabama

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the mental health struggles of people around the world. This is an opportunity for aspiring psychologists to be inspired and act. Fortunately, psychology schools in Alabama are prepared to educate them to help address the lack of access to care and the prevalence of this essential issue in the state. For your part, you must stay committed to your values and goals in order for you to be personally and professionally successful.

What are the steps to become a school psychologist in Alabama?

Aspiring school psychologists in Alabama should pursue a specialized graduate program that focuses on educational and behavioral assessment as well as intervention strategies in school settings. This pathway includes completing a master’s or specialist degree from an accredited institution; participating in targeted internship or practicum experiences; and accumulating the necessary supervised practice hours required by state authorities. Additionally, candidates must pass dedicated certification exams that address the competencies specific to educational environments. For detailed guidance on the process and to review the school psychologist requirements in Alabama, it is advisable to closely consult with program advisors and current practitioners, ensuring that educational and licensure steps are fully aligned with state-specific regulations and evolving best practices in the field.

What is the pathway to become a substance abuse counselor in Alabama?

Substance abuse counseling addresses a critical gap in Alabama’s mental health services by providing targeted interventions for individuals battling addiction. This career requires specific academic credentials, including specialized coursework and supervised practice, distinct from traditional psychology licensure. Professionals must complete accredited training programs and obtain state-specific certifications to ensure adherence to ethical standards and effective treatment practices. For detailed guidance on educational requirements and the certification process, refer to How to become a substance abuse counselor in Alabama?.

Can Psychology Graduates Transition into Forensic Science in Alabama?

For psychology graduates aiming to diversify their career options, forensic science represents a unique interdisciplinary pathway that blends psychological expertise with legal and investigative processes. This field requires targeted academic preparation and specialized training to effectively apply behavioral analysis in legal contexts. Graduates may benefit from exploring tailored programs and certifications that enhance understanding of crime scene investigation, evidence analysis, and legal ethics. In particular, reviewing the degrees needed to work in forensic science in Alabama can equip professionals with the necessary credentials to excel in roles that intersect psychological research with forensic practice.

What Are Emerging Lucrative Career Opportunities for Psychology Graduates in Alabama?

As Alabama’s mental health and human services landscape evolves, innovative career opportunities have begun to emerge. Professionals with advanced psychology training are not only penetrating traditional sectors—such as clinical practice, school-based services, and community mental health—but are also tapping into emerging fields like digital mental health, corporate wellness programs, and research-driven consulting. These roles often leverage interdisciplinary skills and offer competitive compensation packages. In addition to standard licensure paths, graduates are encouraged to explore certifications or specialized training that can further distinguish them in the job market and broaden their career prospects. For instance, transitioning into areas linked to the highest paying jobs with a human services degree may enhance both earning potential and professional growth.

What are the requirements to pursue a career in behavior analysis in Alabama?

Individuals interested in expanding their scope within psychology can enhance their careers by pursuing certification as a behavior analyst. In Alabama, this pathway involves completing an accredited graduate-level program focused on behavior analysis, accumulating supervised practicum or fieldwork hours, and successfully passing the national BCBA examination to ensure competency in behavior modification strategies. This certification not only augments clinical skills but also prepares professionals to develop and implement evidence-based intervention plans in diverse settings. For detailed steps and academic requirements, refer to how to become a BCBA in Alabama.

How Can Online Education Expand Opportunities for Aspiring School Psychologists in Alabama?

Integrating online educational pathways into your career strategy can significantly enhance access to specialized training and broaden your professional network in a flexible learning environment. By exploring school psychology online programs, candidates benefit from curricula that are designed to accommodate diverse schedules while maintaining rigorous academic standards and hands-on practice through virtual simulations and remote mentorship. This approach enables aspiring school psychologists to gain competitive insights without geographic constraints, allowing them to balance professional commitments with ongoing education and certification requirements.

What Are the Continuing Education and Professional Development Options for Licensed Psychologists in Alabama?

Licensed professionals in Alabama are encouraged to enhance their expertise through targeted continuing education and professional development programs. Eligible psychologists can fulfill state-mandated continuing education credits while exploring specialized training courses, workshops, and conferences that address emerging research and innovative clinical practices. In addition to skills upgrading, many institutions and professional associations offer networking opportunities, mentorships, and advanced certifications that can further distinguish practitioners in niche areas of psychology. Before initiating any professional development activities, ensure compliance with state protocols by reviewing our article covering the Alabama psychology license requirements.

How Can a Counseling Career Accelerate Impact on Alabama’s Mental Health Services?

Professionals considering a shift into counseling can play a critical role in addressing Alabama’s ongoing mental health challenges. Focused counseling training offers a direct route to fill service gaps in under-resourced communities by emphasizing practical skill development and streamlined licensure processes. Targeted educational pathways and specialized certifications are reshaping the landscape for mental health practitioners, enabling faster entry into the field through focused programs such as the fastest way to become a counselor in Alabama. Engaging with these emerging opportunities may accelerate professional growth while contributing to the broader goal of enhanced community care.

How Can Mental Health Counseling Careers Address Alabama’s Community Needs?

Mental health counseling offers a distinct approach by enhancing service accessibility in underserved areas while tailoring interventions to meet community-specific needs. Counselors integrate evidence-based practices with flexible treatment modalities to address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges. This role also emphasizes collaborative efforts with interdisciplinary teams, ensuring treatment plans are both personalized and adaptive to emerging trends. For detailed career path guidance, explore our article on how to become a mental health counselor in Alabama.

Key Insights

High Demand for Psychologists: Alabama's low ranking in mental health care (47th for adults and 20th for youth) highlights a significant need for mental health professionals, making it a promising field for aspiring psychologists.
Attractive Salary: Clinical and counseling psychologists in Alabama have an estimated median annual wage of $70,195.2, which is more than twice the standard cost of living for a single, childless resident.
Comprehensive Education Path: Becoming a psychologist in Alabama requires extensive education, including a bachelor's degree, a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or PsyD), and passing two licensure exams (EPPP and PSE).
Affordable Cost of Living: With a minimum gross annual income requirement of $32,547 for a single adult to make ends meet, Alabama offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other states.
Diverse Educational Opportunities: Several universities in Alabama offer accredited psychology programs with various specializations and degrees, including the University of Alabama, Samford University, Birmingham-Southern College, the University of South Alabama, and Auburn University.

FAQ

What is the average salary for psychologists in Alabama?

The median annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists in Alabama is $70,195.2.

What are the steps to becoming a licensed psychologist in Alabama?

To become a licensed psychologist in Alabama, you need to:

Earn an accredited bachelor's degree in psychology.
Complete a doctoral program (Ph.D. or PsyD) in psychology.
Finish and submit an application to the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology.
Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Professional Standards Exam (PSE).

How long does it take to complete a psychology program in Alabama?

A bachelor's degree in psychology typically takes four years to complete, while a Ph.D. or PsyD program can take an additional five to seven years, including internships and dissertation work.

What is the cost of psychology programs in Alabama?

Tuition costs for psychology programs in Alabama vary. Resident undergraduate students may pay between $545 and $1,243 per credit, while non-residents may pay between $1,070.4 and $1,425. Graduate program costs for residents range from $635 to $757.67 per credit, and non-residents may pay between $757.67 and $1,660.

Are there any specific licensure exams required for psychologists in Alabama?

Yes, aspiring psychologists in Alabama must pass two licensure exams: the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Professional Standards Exam (PSE).

What specializations are available in psychology programs at Alabama universities?

Specializations available include clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and more, depending on the university.

Which universities in Alabama offer accredited psychology programs?

Accredited psychology programs are offered by:

University of Alabama
Samford University
Birmingham-Southern College
University of South Alabama
Auburn University

What factors should I consider when choosing a psychology program in Alabama?

Consider factors such as accreditation, affordability, accessibility, program length, and the specializations offered.

Are online psychology programs available in Alabama?

Some universities may offer online components or programs, but most advanced degrees, especially those leading to licensure, require in-person attendance for clinical training and internships.

How can psychology schools in Alabama help address the state's mental health issues?

Psychology schools in Alabama can help by training more mental health professionals, providing high-quality education and clinical training, and producing graduates who are equipped to address the mental health needs of the state's population.

References

Glasmeier, A. K. & Massachusetts Institute of Technology. (2023). Living Wage Calculation for Alabama. https://livingwage.mit.edu/states/01
Mental Health America. (2022). Ranking the States 2022. https://mhanational.org/issues/2022/ranking-states
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Alabama. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_al.htm