Best Psychology Schools in Florida – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Around 83% of the behavioral health workforce believes that without changes to public policy, provider organizations will be unable to meet the demand for mental health or substance abuse treatment and care (National Council for Mental Wellbeing, 2023). The aftermath can see a potential exodus of behavioral health workers due to burnout, which could lead to a high demand for psychologists (National Council for Mental Wellbeing, 2023).

The state of Florida is home to a notable collection of institutions dedicated to psychology, the scientific inquiry into human thought and behavior. These academic institutions have carved a distinct niche as bastions of scholarly excellence and intellectual rigor.

In this article, we embark on a structured inquiry into the best psychology schools in Florida. If you are interested in exploring what you can do with a clinical psychology degree, this guide is for you. The Research.com team identified the psychology schools in Florida offering the best programs based on curriculum and accreditation to help you make an informed choice.

Best Psychology Schools in Florida Table of Contents

Is Florida a good place to be a psychologist?
What are the steps to becoming a Psychologist in Florida?
Psychology Program Length in Florida
Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Florida
Financial Aid Options for Psychology Students in Florida
Florida Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025
What to Look For in a Psychology Program in Florida
Is a psychology degree in Florida worth it?
How can psychology students in Florida succeed in their programs and careers?
Exploring Career Pathways Beyond Clinical Psychology
What Are the Unique Pathways to a Criminal Psychology Career in Florida?
Can accelerated psychology masters programs fast-track your psychology career in Florida?
What policies are shaping behavioral health education and practice in Florida?
What are the steps to become a school psychologist in Florida?
What are the ongoing professional development and license renewal requirements for psychologists in Florida?
What are the career prospects and requirements for psychiatrists in Florida?
How do you become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in Florida?
How can psychology integrate with forensic science in Florida?
How does counseling complement psychology careers in Florida?
What are the career advancement opportunities for psychology professionals in Florida?

Is Florida a good place to be a psychologist?

Only 597 of 2,142 counties in the US had at least one clinical and one adolescent psychologist (American Psychological Association and University of Michigan, 2020). Whether being a psychologist is a good job in Florida depends on your career goals and interests. Like many other states, Florida has a demand for mental health professionals, including psychologists. Factors such as population growth, demographics, and the prevalence of mental health issues in the state can affect job opportunities.

Psychology schools in Florida offer diverse programs that cater to every student, whether the path they want to take is counseling or clinical psychology. Psychologists in Florida can work in various settings, including private practices, hospitals, schools, government agencies, and mental health treatment facilities. Your choice of work setting can impact your job satisfaction and income potential.

The diverse population provides psychology career opportunities in Florida with many clients and issues. Job satisfaction in psychology often depends on personal fulfillment, the ability to positively impact individuals and communities, and work-life balance. Like in many states, the field of psychology can be competitive, which is why most psychology schools in Florida offer various concentrations and specializations.

What are the steps to becoming a Psychologist in Florida?

In 2023, among adults with mental health illness, 28% reported they could not receive treatment (Mental Health America, 2023).

Becoming a psychologist in Florida involves taking up undergraduate and graduate programs, supervised experience, and licensure. The process starts by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field from psychology schools in Florida. While a specific undergraduate major in psychology is not always required, it can help gain foundational knowledge. You may choose among undergraduate psychology programs in Florida.

To become a licensed psychologist in Florida, you must earn a master’s and a doctoral degree in psychology. There are two common types of graduate psychology programs in Florida, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), which emphasizes research, and the Doctor of Psychology (PsD), which focuses on clinical practice and practical training.

After completing your doctoral program in psychology schools in Florida, you must complete at least 4,000 hours of supervised experience, which is among the psychology licensure requirements in Florida. The next step after completing the clinical experience requirement is to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Once you have completed your supervised experience and passed the EPPP, you can apply for licensure with the Florida Board of Psychology.

Can I apply for a license after earning only a master’s degree in psychology?

After two years of supervised post-master’s experience, those who have earned a master’s degree in Psychology are eligible to take the licensure exam and become a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). There are online psychology degree programs in Florida that offer these types of graduate programs.

Psychology Program Length in Florida

Your journey begins with earning a bachelor’s degree from one of the psychology schools in Florida, which typically takes around four years to complete. After completing your bachelor’s degree, you must enroll in a graduate program and complete a doctoral program in psychology. The psychology degree requirements in Florida can take five to seven years, depending on the type of program and your progress.

Following your doctoral program, you must accrue supervised experience. Completing at least 4,000 hours of supervised experience, which includes at least 2,000 post-doctoral clinical hours, takes approximately two to three years.

The time it takes to prepare for and pass the required examinations can vary. This includes the EPPP and the Florida State Examination. Depending on your readiness and study habits, this could take several months to a year or more. However, the time it would take to finish your program will be worth it. Among licensed clinicians, 20% reported at least 19 people on their waitlist (American Psychological Association, 2022).

Typically, it takes a minimum of 10 to 12 years or more from the time you enroll in your undergraduate program to licensure as a psychologist in Florida. This will vary if you enroll in an online psychology degree. The actual time can vary widely based on individual circumstances, program choices, and how efficiently you progress through each step of the process. You may consult with the psychology schools in Florida for your preferred study program.

Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Florida

The tuition rates for programs in psychology schools in Florida, like other types of education, can vary significantly based on factors such as the type of institution, whether public or private, in-state or out-of-state, and the specific program of study. Tuition rates for in-state residents at public universities in Florida can vary widely depending on the program.

On average, expect to pay between $5,000 to $12,000 or more per academic year. If you are an out-of-state student attending a public university in Florida, your tuition will typically be significantly higher than in-state rates. For instance, in a public school such as Florida Atlantic, the estimated cost of attendance for in-state students is $5,816, while for a non-Florida resident, the estimated cost is $20,192. Private colleges and universities in Florida often have higher tuition rates for psychology programs than public institutions.

Tuition rates can also vary based on the type of the program and its duration as offered by psychology schools in Florida. Part-time or online psychology programs may have different tuition structures. When evaluating the cheapest online psychology degree, check the curriculum to ensure program quality.

Consider exploring financial aid for psychology students in Florida, scholarships, assistantships, and other funding opportunities to help offset the cost of your education. In 2020-21, the national average of state and local funding per student reached $9,330, the highest level since 2000-01 (College Board, 2022).

Financial Aid Options for Psychology Students in Florida

Psychology students in Florida have access to various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Here are some of your options:

Federal Financial Aid: Students can apply for federal financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This process determines eligibility for grants like the Pell Grant, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Federal loans typically offer lower interest rates than private loans, making them a more attractive option for students who need to borrow money.
State Grants and Scholarships: Florida offers several state-specific financial aid programs for students pursuing higher education. The Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) provides need-based grants to eligible residents attending public or private universities in the state. Another popular program is the Bright Futures Scholarship, which awards high-achieving students based on academic performance and community service.
School-Specific Scholarships and Assistantships: Many universities in Florida offer scholarships specifically for psychology students. These may be merit-based or need-based. Some schools also provide assistantships, where students can work as teaching or research assistants in exchange for tuition waivers or stipends. Assistantships reduce tuition costs and provide valuable hands-on experience in the field.
Private Scholarships and Fellowships: Numerous private organizations offer scholarships to psychology students. For example, the American Psychological Association (APA) offers several awards, grants, and fellowships for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in psychology. Local mental health organizations or nonprofit groups may also provide scholarships to students in Florida.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program can be a valuable option for those who take out federal loans. Psychology graduates who work in qualifying nonprofit or government settings may have their remaining federal loans forgiven after making 120 qualifying payments. This is particularly relevant for those planning to work in public mental health settings or with underserved populations in Florida.

Florida Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025

University of Florida

The University of Florida is one of the psychology schools in Florida that provides its students with a diverse liberal arts education grounded in science. Psychology majors become well-equipped for graduate study in psychology, advanced professional programs, and various professions. General psychology, behavioral and cognitive neuroscience, and behavior analysis are among the specialization options. The graduate program department offers Ph.D. candidates four specialty areas: behavior analysis, developmental, neurobehavioral and cognitive sciences, and social psychology.

Florida State University

As majors in psychology or behavioral neuroscience, Florida State University provides psychology students opportunities to assist faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students with scientific research in the many subfields of psychology. Students can earn course credit while performing laboratory work. Doctoral training is conducted in laboratories of the highest caliber under the supervision of our internationally renowned faculty. Psychology students can pursue doctoral training in neuroscience through the interdepartmental FSU program.

University of South Florida

Among psychology schools in Florida, the psychology program of the University of South Florida provides students with a well-rounded liberal arts education applicable to various fields of study within and outside the social and behavioral sciences. Students who desire to pursue graduate studies in clinical, cognitive, and neural sciences or industrial psychology, education, and other human service programs receive excellent training in this program. The undergraduate program emphasizes the breadth of psychology while allowing students to pursue electives in particular aspects of the discipline.

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University offers the BA in Psychology, BS in Neuroscience, and behavior degree programs. These programs are designed to provide quality general education in the fundamental areas of psychological science and neuroscience, preparing students for vocations in a variety of fields as well as graduate study. The research-intensive graduate program includes MA and Ph.D. degree programs in experimental psychology through mentor-based graduate training in the laboratory.

University of West Florida

The psychology programs at the University of West Florida train students to adopt a scientific approach to understanding and evaluating behavior and mental processes. Through the undergraduate and graduate curriculum, students pursue their professional and personal goals. As with other major psychology schools in Florida, undergraduate programs include BA and BS degrees in psychology. To become scientist-practitioners, students may concentrate on counseling or industrial-organizational psychology, which also opens the opportunity to work with professionals from the best business schools in Florida.

What to Look For in a Psychology Program in Florida

As of 2022, 3,450 clinical and counseling psychologists were employed in Florida (BLS, 2022). When evaluating psychology programs offered by psychology schools in Florida, several key factors should be considered to ensure you choose the program that best aligns with your academic and career goals. Aside from looking for the top-ranked psychology schools in Florida, regional accreditation is crucial. For psychology programs, check if they have accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA). This ensures that the program complies with the goals of psychology and meets standards set by the governing agencies.

Next is to determine whether the program offers the level of degree and specialization that matches your career plans. In addition, among the best colleges for psychology majors in Florida, check the qualifications and expertise of the faculty members. Look for programs where faculty members have research interests or clinical expertise that align with your own interests.

If you are interested in research, inquire about research opportunities for students offered by psychology schools in Florida. A robust research component can be particularly important for psychology schools in Florida offering doctoral programs. For clinical or counseling psychology programs, look for psychology internships in Florida or practicum experiences. This practical training is vital for building clinical skills.

Is a psychology degree in Florida worth it?

Deciding is a psychology degree worth it in Florida involves evaluating several factors, including career opportunities, salary prospects, and personal goals. Psychology remains one of the most versatile fields of study, offering pathways into clinical practice, research, education, and various industries.

Florida boasts a robust demand for mental health professionals, fueled by its diverse population and the growing need for psychological services. According to the American Psychological Association, psychology degrees can lead to lucrative and fulfilling careers, with Florida offering competitive salaries—clinical psychologists earn an average of $106,190 annually, while industrial-organizational psychologists can earn up to $108,320 per year.

Moreover, Florida's accredited psychology programs provide rigorous training and specializations in areas such as behavioral neuroscience, clinical psychology, and social psychology. Many institutions also emphasize hands-on experiences through internships and practicums, which are critical for professional development.

While the journey to licensure in Florida requires significant time and financial investment, the diverse career opportunities and the growing emphasis on mental health make a psychology degree a valuable asset. Whether you aspire to impact individual lives as a clinician or contribute to groundbreaking research, studying psychology in Florida provides a solid foundation for a meaningful career.

How can psychology students in Florida succeed in their programs and careers?

Success in a psychology program in Florida goes beyond just attending classes. To maximize their educational and career opportunities, psychology students should consider the following tips:

Engage in Active Learning: Take full advantage of classroom discussions, seminars, and workshops. These activities can deepen your understanding of complex concepts and help you build valuable critical-thinking skills.
Seek Out Internships and Practicums Early: Start looking for internship opportunities as early as possible. These hands-on experiences are essential for building practical skills, understanding real-world applications of psychological theories, and meeting licensure requirements.
Join Professional Organizations: Becoming a member of organizations like the Florida Psychological Association (FPA) can provide networking opportunities, access to conferences, and updates on industry trends and regulations.
Connect with Faculty and Mentors: Developing strong relationships with faculty members can provide mentorship, guidance on research projects, and support in navigating the career path you wish to pursue.
Stay Updated on State-Specific Licensure Requirements: Ensure you are aware of the current licensing requirements in Florida, including the necessary examinations and supervised hours. Being proactive can prevent delays in obtaining licensure after graduation.
Consider Additional Certifications and Specializations: Pursuing specialized training or certifications can make you more competitive in the job market. For example, certifications in clinical practice or applied behavioral analysis (ABA) can open up more career opportunities. If you're interested in exploring related career paths, you might also consider what a degree in human services can offer, as it opens up various opportunities to support communities and individuals in need.
Leverage Florida's Unique Opportunities: Take advantage of Florida's diverse cultural and environmental aspects. Understanding the specific challenges of Florida's population, including mental health needs in rural and urban areas, can better prepare you for your career.
Plan Financially: Budgeting and exploring financial aid options are crucial to managing tuition and other costs. To reduce financial stress, utilize scholarships, grants, and assistantship programs offered by universities and professional bodies.

Exploring Career Pathways Beyond Clinical Psychology

Florida offers a plethora of career options for psychology graduates beyond traditional clinical roles. Many professionals explore opportunities in organizational psychology, forensic psychology, and school psychology, each presenting unique challenges and rewards.

Organizational psychologists, for instance, assist businesses in enhancing workplace productivity and employee well-being. These roles often pay competitive salaries and require a strong foundation in psychological principles paired with organizational dynamics training. On the other hand, forensic psychologists work within the legal system, lending their expertise to cases involving criminal behavior, custody disputes, and mental health assessments.

For those interested in strengthening family and marriage dynamics, pursuing a career as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) can be a fulfilling pathway. By meeting the MFT licensing requirements in Florida, graduates can position themselves to create meaningful impacts in their communities.

Furthermore, school psychologists play a pivotal role in the educational system, addressing students' mental and emotional well-being to foster a healthier learning environment. These careers often require specialized training and certification, which can be pursued at Florida's top psychology programs.

By diversifying their career trajectories, psychology graduates in Florida can align their professional objectives with their passions and interests, ensuring dynamic and impactful contributions across various sectors.

The Best Psychology Schools in Florida: Training Students to Address Increasing Mental Health Challenges

In this article, the Resarch.com team has identified the best psychology schools in Florida that lead the way as incubators of innovative research, fostering a profound understanding of human behavior. These institutions empower students and scholars alike to embark on a journey of discovery and service, making invaluable contributions to the well-being of individuals and society.

The pursuit of excellence in psychology education continues within the hallowed halls of these institutions, nurturing the future leaders and practitioners who will shape the ever-evolving landscape of psychological science and practice. For those who want to pursue psychology through online studies, there are online clinical psychology programs offered by major institutions.

What Are the Unique Pathways to a Criminal Psychology Career in Florida?

Florida’s criminal psychology specialization addresses the analytical evaluation of criminal behavior while focusing on offender rehabilitation and risk assessment. This field leverages targeted coursework, field placements, and hands-on training designed in collaboration with regional criminal justice systems. Prospective professionals can further distinguish themselves by engaging in research and interagency partnerships that reflect the state’s unique legal and social landscape. For guidance on academic pathways and credentialing, consider exploring how to become a criminal psychologist in Florida.

Can accelerated psychology masters programs fast-track your psychology career in Florida?

Accelerated pathways offer an opportunity for motivated students to complete graduate coursework and practical training in a compressed timeframe. Candidates considering these programs should verify that the curriculum aligns with Florida’s licensure requirements and maintains proper accreditation. An accelerated schedule can facilitate earlier entry into professional practice, yet applicants must carefully assess workload intensity, clinical placement quality, and long-term career objectives. For those evaluating a shortened educational route, exploring accelerated psychology masters programs may provide a competitive edge while still equipping graduates with the comprehensive training needed for success in Florida’s dynamic psychology landscape.

What policies are shaping behavioral health education and practice in Florida?

Recent legislative and regulatory initiatives are realigning educational priorities and practice standards across Florida’s behavioral health sector. These policy changes emphasize increased funding for training programs, streamlined licensure pathways, and enhanced research support, directly impacting course structures and clinical placements. By aligning academic curricula with real-world challenges, these measures aim to better prepare professionals to handle evolving mental health needs while addressing provider burnout. For additional insights on career pathways influenced by contemporary policy reforms, explore How to become a substance abuse counselor in Florida?.

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

School psychologists integrate educational and psychological expertise to support student development and effective learning environments. In Florida, candidates should complete a specialized master's or specialist degree in school psychology from a program accredited by relevant bodies, followed by structured internships in educational settings. Reviewing the school psychologist requirements in Florida is essential to ensure adherence to state licensure and certification standards. Emphasis is placed on acquiring skills in assessment, intervention, consultation, and ethical practices within the school context, all of which are critical for a successful career in this specialized field.

What are the ongoing professional development and license renewal requirements for psychologists in Florida?

Psychologists in Florida must not only meet initial licensure standards but also adhere to ongoing professional development and renewal protocols to sustain practice excellence. License renewal typically requires the completion of a prescribed number of continuing education hours every renewal cycle, ensuring that professionals remain current with emerging research, clinical best practices, and ethical guidelines. Renewal submissions must be documented accurately and submitted to the Florida Board of Psychology within specified deadlines. For detailed criteria and verification processes, please review our article on Florida psychology license requirements.

What are the career prospects and requirements for psychiatrists in Florida?

In Florida, psychiatry stands out as a specialized medical field that complements psychology by offering the authority to prescribe treatment alongside therapeutic interventions. Prospective psychiatrists must complete a medical degree, followed by a residency in psychiatry, and ultimately acquire board certification. This pathway ensures that graduates possess both in-depth clinical expertise and the ability to integrate pharmacological treatments in mental health care. The state’s growing emphasis on comprehensive psychiatric services translates into strong career prospects, with ample opportunities in hospital settings, private practices, and academic institutions. For an in-depth review of the professional trajectory and educational milestones, refer our guide on the steps to become a psychiatrist.

How do you become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in Florida?

To achieve BCBA certification in Florida, candidates must satisfy rigorous academic, practical, and examination criteria. Typically, this involves completing a recognized undergraduate degree followed by graduate-level coursework in applied behavior analysis that meets professional standards. In addition, a significant amount of supervised fieldwork is required to ensure practical competence in behavior analytic practices. Successful candidates must pass the Board Certification Examination and then fulfill ongoing continuing education requirements to sustain their credentials. For detailed information on this pathway, please review how to become a BCBA in Florida.

How can psychology integrate with forensic science in Florida?

Individuals exploring interdisciplinary career paths can consider combining psychology with forensic science to address intricate legal and behavioral challenges. Integrating a psychology background with forensic science expertise enhances roles in criminal investigations, evidence evaluation, and expert testimony. Aspiring professionals may complement their training by pursuing specialized programs that cover the degrees needed to work in forensic science in Florida, fostering a unique blend of psychological insight and scientific rigor. This strategic combination broadens career prospects, offering enhanced opportunities in forensic analysis, investigative consulting, and courtroom support.

How does counseling complement psychology careers in Florida?

Integrating counseling practices with psychology offers a multidimensional approach to mental health that addresses both immediate client concerns and long-term behavioral strategies. In Florida, professionals who add counseling expertise can bridge the gap between clinical assessment and personalized intervention, enhancing treatment outcomes especially in diverse community settings. This interdisciplinary approach not only augments traditional psychology roles but also encourages ongoing professional development and adaptive care models. For individuals interested in accelerating this career path, explore our guide on the fastest way to become a counselor in Florida.

What are the career advancement opportunities for psychology professionals in Florida?

Florida offers a robust ecosystem for ongoing professional development that helps psychology professionals navigate an evolving marketplace. Many associations and regional chapters host industry conferences, workshops, and seminars geared toward sharing emerging research, innovative clinical practices, and strategic career advice. Targeted mentorship programs and networking events create avenues for collaboration and leadership development without overlapping initial academic training details. Professionals seeking to broaden their service offerings might also consider specialized certifications and advanced training modules, including learning how to become a mental health counselor in Florida, to diversify their expertise and enhance their career trajectory.

Key Insights

High Demand for Psychologists: The behavioral health workforce in Florida faces high demand due to burnout and potential shortages in mental health and substance abuse treatment providers.
Diverse Career Opportunities: Florida offers varied settings for psychologists, including private practices, hospitals, schools, and government agencies, allowing for a wide range of career opportunities.
Comprehensive Education Pathways: Florida's psychology schools provide a complete educational journey from bachelor's to doctoral degrees, with programs focused on both research and clinical practice.
Competitive Salaries: Psychologists in Florida earn competitive salaries, with industrial-organizational psychologists earning the highest average at $108,320 annually.
Accredited Programs: Accreditation from bodies like the American Psychological Association (APA) ensures that psychology programs in Florida meet high educational standards.
Specialization Options: Psychology programs in Florida offer various specializations, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific career interests, such as clinical psychology, behavioral neuroscience, and social psychology.
Extensive Supervised Experience: Becoming a licensed psychologist in Florida requires at least 4,000 hours of supervised experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for professional practice.

FAQ

What is the demand for psychologists in Florida?

Florida has a high demand for mental health professionals due to a significant incidence rate of mental distress and potential burnout among current behavioral health workers. This creates numerous job opportunities for aspiring psychologists.

How much do psychologists earn in Florida?

Psychologists in Florida earn competitive salaries. Industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average of $108,320 annually, while clinical and counseling psychologists earn around $106,190.

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

To become a licensed psychologist in Florida, you need to obtain a bachelor's degree, earn a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), complete at least 4,000 hours of supervised experience, pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), and apply for licensure with the Florida Board of Psychology.

Can I become licensed with just a master’s degree in psychology?

With a master’s degree in psychology, you can become a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), or licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Florida after completing two years of supervised post-master’s experience.

How long does it take to complete a psychology degree in Florida?

It typically takes around four years to complete a bachelor’s degree, followed by five to seven years for a doctoral degree. Including the required supervised experience, it takes approximately 10 to 12 years to become a licensed psychologist in Florida.

What is the cost of psychology programs in Florida?

Tuition rates vary significantly. In-state tuition at public universities ranges from $5,000 to $12,000 per academic year, while out-of-state and private university tuition can be much higher. Financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships are available to help offset costs.

What are the key factors to consider when choosing a psychology program in Florida?

When choosing a psychology program, consider accreditation, program specialization, faculty expertise, research opportunities, internship and practicum experiences, and the availability of financial aid.

What specializations are available in Florida’s psychology programs?

Specializations include clinical psychology, behavioral and cognitive neuroscience, social psychology, developmental psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology, among others.

What research opportunities are available in Florida’s psychology programs?

Many psychology programs in Florida offer robust research opportunities, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge studies in various subfields of psychology. These opportunities are crucial for doctoral students and those interested in academic or research careers.

What are the licensing requirements for psychologists in Florida?

Licensing requirements include completing a doctoral degree, accruing at least 4,000 hours of supervised experience, passing the EPPP, and submitting a licensure application with supporting documents to the Florida Board of Psychology.