Best Psychology Schools in Maryland – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

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Today, the field of psychology faces many challenges. Access to mental healthcare remains unequal, and addressing the mental health needs of underserved populations is an ongoing concern. In Maryland, one in five people lives in an area with a severe shortage of mental health providers (Arikat, Busath et al., 2022).

In this guide, we will discuss the state of the psychology industry in Maryland as well as the educational requirements to become a psychologist in the state. We will also list some psychology programs in Maryland for those who want to pursue career paths in psychology in the state.

Best Psychology Schools in Maryland Table of Contents

Is psychology a good job in Maryland?
What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Maryland?
Psychology Program Length in Maryland
Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Maryland
Maryland Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025
What To Look For in a Psychology Program in Maryland
Key Skills for Psychology Graduates in Maryland
What opportunities exist for psychology students in Maryland to collaborate with leading research institutions or government agencies?
What distinguishes school psychology career paths in Maryland?
Can accelerated PsyD programs fast-track your psychology career in Maryland?
Can specializing in applied behavior analysis enhance your psychology career in Maryland?
How can specializing in criminal psychology expand career opportunities in Maryland?
How can specializing in substance abuse counseling benefit your career in Maryland?
Can interdisciplinary training in forensic science expand your psychology career in Maryland?
What are the continuing education and professional development requirements?
What are alternative training pathways for entering Maryland's mental health field?
Licensing and Certification Pathways for Psychology Careers in Maryland
Can pursuing an online doctoral program enhance career prospects in Maryland?
How can a career in mental health counseling enhance your opportunities in Maryland?

Is psychology a good job in Maryland?

Maryland has a relatively high average income and a good healthcare system, which can positively impact the prospects for psychologists. The average salary of Maryland psychologists is $131,104 (ZipRecruiter, 2023). This is not far off from the average salary of psychology professionals elsewhere in the country, which is $134,325 (ZipRecruiter, 2023).

For psychologists who want to work and settle in Maryland, having a competitive salary can be a compelling reason to choose the state as their professional home. Overall, working as a psychologist in Maryland is a reasonable choice for professionals who want a work-life balance with enough opportunities for career growth.

Maryland has a diverse population, and psychologists often address a range of mental health issues within their practice. This can be an advantage for those who are planning to choose a specialization in their psychology practice.

The state also offers various resources and support for psychologists, such as professional associations like the Maryland Psychological Association (MPA). The MPA aims to advance the field of psychology, promote high-quality mental health services, and provide networking opportunities for professionals in the state.

What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Maryland?

The Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists oversees the licensing and regulation of psychologists in the state, ensuring high standards of competence and ethics. To practice psychology in Maryland, individuals must hold a doctorate degree in psychology, complete supervised experience, and pass the required examinations.

Here are the key steps to becoming a psychologist in Maryland:

Earn a bachelor’s degree: This typically takes four years of full-time study. You can easily find behavioral science degrees online or on-site related psychology programs in Maryland.
Earn a master’s degree: If you have a master’s degree in clinical psychology, counseling, or industrial and organizational psychology, you can register to practice psychology. This will be under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Earn a doctorate degree: The next step to becoming a psychologist in Maryland is to graduate from a doctorate program in psychology. The program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association or listed in the designated doctorate programs by the Council for the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology. Generally speaking, there is no MD in psychology. Rather, medical doctors who assist their patients with their mental health are known as psychiatrists.
Gain some professional and relevant experience: After earning your doctorate, you must complete a certain number of hours of supervised experience in your chosen specialization. For example, if you have a degree from the University of Maryland in clinical psychology, it will be beneficial to become an assistant to a clinical psychologist in the state.
Pass the required exams: You must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Maryland Jurisprudence Exam.
Apply for licensure: Once you have completed all of the above steps, you can now apply for licensure and become a licensed psychologist in Maryland. You can also apply for non-practice and practice-oriented psychology programs in Maryland.

What internship opportunities are available for psychology students in Maryland?

Internship opportunities are crucial for psychology students in Maryland, as they provide hands-on experience and enhance professional readiness. Here are some key avenues for internships available to psychology students:

Clinical Internships: Many universities in Maryland partner with local hospitals, clinics, and mental health facilities to offer clinical internships. These positions allow students to work under licensed professionals, gaining valuable experience in patient assessment, treatment planning, and therapy techniques.
Research Assistantships: Students can seek research assistant positions at universities or research institutions like Johns Hopkins University. These internships enable students to assist in ongoing psychological research, helping to develop skills in data collection, analysis, and academic writing.
Community Outreach Programs: Some programs focus on serving underserved populations. Interning with these initiatives helps students understand community mental health needs and learn about culturally competent care practices.
School Psychology Internships: Students interested in school psychology may find internship opportunities within local school districts. These internships often involve working with students to address behavioral issues and promote mental health awareness.
Nonprofit Organizations: Many nonprofits in Maryland focus on mental health advocacy and support. Interning at these organizations can provide insight into mental health policy, community education, and program development.

Psychology Program Length in Maryland

Overall, it can take 10 years or more to complete all the requirements and become a licensed psychologist in Maryland. For those who want to enroll in bachelor’s to PsyD programs in Maryland, here are estimated durations according to our research:

Bachelor’s degree: A bachelor’s degree in psychology typically takes about four years of full-time study.
Master’s degree: A standalone master’s degree in psychology can take about two more years of full-time study after earning a bachelor’s degree.
Doctorate degree: A doctoral program in psychology can take at least three or more years of full-time study after earning a bachelor’s degree.

When applying for psychology licensure in Maryland as a graduate of a practice-oriented program, you must have completed a minimum of 3,250 hours of supervised professional experience. 1,750 hours will be allocated for internships. The remaining 1,500 hours can be fulfilled at different phases of your psychology training, such as pre-internship, pre-doctoral, post-internship, or post-doctoral periods (Maryland DOH, n.d.).

Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Maryland

According to research, in Maryland, the average cost of an undergraduate degree is $23,000 for in-state students and about $67,000 for out-of-state students (BSU, 2023). Additionally, a master’s degree in industrial psychology typically costs $24,800 for in-state students and $54,100 for out-of-state students (UMD, 2023). Lastly, PsyD programs in Maryland can cost up to $174,000 for a five-year full-time program with specializations such as clinical psychology and organizational psychology (LUM, 2023).

These numbers are based on the tuition fees of colleges in the state. The actual cost may vary depending on whether you plan to enroll full-time or part-time, miscellaneous fees, and whether you are eligible to apply for financial aid or not.

Maryland Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025

From a cheap online psychology degree to private colleges that offer psychology specializations, you can find a program that will suit you in Maryland. To help you start your career as a psychologist, here are the top five universities that offer psychology programs in Maryland:

University of Maryland

The UMD psychology department offers both traditional undergraduate and graduate programs in psychology for students who want to pursue all degrees at one school. Additionally, if you are an UMD psychology major who wants to choose a specialization, this university has two options for your master’s degree. The University of Maryland clinical psychology department also has a Ph.D. program that offers specialty areas in clinical cognitive and neural systems, as well as social and organizational science.

Program Length: Four years (undergraduate); two to five years (graduate).
Tracks/concentrations: clinical psychology and industrial organizational psychology
Cost per credit: $412 (undergraduate in-state); $1,616 (undergraduate out-of-state); $828 (graduate).
Required Credits to Graduate: 130 (undergraduate); 30 (master’s); 12 (Ph.D.).
Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)

Loyola University Maryland

LU Maryland offers undergraduate studies in psychology as well as master’s and doctoral degrees in the same field. The psychology programs at LU are focused on interdisciplinary courses along with training using state-of-the-art facilities for aspiring psychologists.

Program Length: Four years (undergraduate); two to five years (graduate).
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Cost per credit: $460 (undergraduate); $1,041 (master’s); $1,013 (Psy.D.).
Required Credits to Graduate: at least 120 (undergraduate); 60 (master’s); 131 (Psy.D.).
Accreditation: APA

John Hopkins University

JHU’s Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences offers a PhD program in psychology with many options for specializations under two main areas of instruction and research. Similar to the University of Maryland psychology department, JHU also offers an undergraduate major and minor in psychology.

Program Length: Four years (undergraduate); two to five years (graduate).
Tracks/concentrations: biopsychology, cognitive, and developmental psychology
Cost per credit: $520 (undergraduate); $1,100 (graduate).
Required Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate); depends on specialization (graduate).
Accreditation: APA

Towson University

Towson University offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in psychology. Many students choose TU for their strong research support and modern laboratories and facilities that are available for postgraduate and undergraduate students. Their psychology curriculum also includes advanced data analysis.

Program Length: Four years (undergraduate); two to five years (graduate).
Tracks/concentrations: clinical psychology, counseling, and experimental psychology
Cost per credit: $376 (undergraduate in-state), $930 (undergraduate out-of-state); and $669 (master’s).
Required Credits to Graduate: 120 (undergraduate); 48 (master’s).
Accreditation: Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council

St. Mary’s College of Maryland

SMCM offers an undergraduate psychology program that gives students much freedom to explore their opportunities for the future. Students are able to take courses in psychology-related programs like neuroscience, educational studies, and sociology that allow them to choose early on what they want to pursue.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: N/A
Cost per credit: $378 (in-state), $853 (out-of-state).
Required Credits to Graduate: 128
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

What To Look For in a Psychology Program in Maryland

The overall employment of psychologists in the country is expected to grow by six percent from 2020 to 2030. This means that about 12,800 job openings are projected each year (BLS, 2022). If you are looking for a psychology program in Maryland, here are some things to consider:

Accreditation: Look for psychology programs in Maryland that are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or other reputable accrediting bodies for higher education. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and rigor.
Curriculum: Look for psychology programs in Maryland that offer a curriculum that aligns with your interests and career goals, such as an online master’s program in organizational psychology. Consider the courses offered, the research opportunities available, and the faculty’s credentials.
Clinical experience: Look for psychology programs in Maryland that offer opportunities for clinical experience, such as internships or practicums. Clinical experience is important for gaining hands-on experience and preparing for licensure.
Faculty: Look for psychology programs in Maryland with experienced and knowledgeable faculty who are actively engaged in research and teaching. Consider their areas of expertise and whether they align with your interests.
Resources: Look for psychology programs in Maryland that offer resources to support your academic and professional development, such as career services, research opportunities, and student organizations.

Key Skills for Psychology Graduates in Maryland

To thrive as a psychology professional in Maryland, graduates need to develop specific skills that align with the state's unique job market and the mental health needs of its diverse population. Here are some essential skills to focus on:

Cultural Competence: Maryland is known for its diverse population, including racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Psychology graduates must understand and respect cultural differences to effectively support their clients. This includes knowing how cultural factors can influence mental health and treatment outcomes.
Policy Understanding: Maryland's proximity to Washington, D.C., offers unique opportunities for psychology professionals to engage in policy-making and public health initiatives. Understanding local, state, and national mental health policies is crucial for those who wish to work in government agencies or research settings.
Research Proficiency: Many psychology programs in Maryland emphasize research skills, allowing graduates to design and conduct studies. This is especially valuable for positions in academic institutions, research centers like the NIH, or roles focusing on evidence-based practice.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are vital for psychologists, whether counseling clients, collaborating with colleagues, or contributing to publications and reports. Maryland psychology professionals are set apart by their ability to clearly explain complex psychological concepts to clients and effectively communicate findings to interdisciplinary teams. Graduates with an affordable online master's in organizational psychology can gain enhanced communication and leadership skills applicable to various work environments, from clinical practice to corporate settings.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Whether in clinical settings or research, psychologists must be able to assess situations critically and develop innovative solutions. This involves analyzing data, evaluating treatment plans, and making informed decisions that benefit clients' well-being.
Adaptability and Technological Proficiency: The field of psychology is ever-evolving, especially with the rise of telehealth and digital tools. Maryland graduates need to be comfortable with new technologies, from virtual counseling platforms to research software and adapt to changes in the field.

What opportunities exist for psychology students in Maryland to collaborate with leading research institutions or government agencies?

Maryland offers a unique advantage for psychology students due to its proximity to world-renowned research institutions and government agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Johns Hopkins University, and agencies in Washington, D.C. Many psychology programs in Maryland have established partnerships with these organizations, enabling students to participate in advanced research projects, internships, and policy development initiatives. These opportunities provide students with direct exposure to cutting-edge mental health research and applications.

Students may also engage in interdisciplinary projects that address pressing public health issues, such as mental health policy, addiction treatment, and health disparities. Programs often incorporate these collaborations into their curriculum, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience while contributing to impactful research. For instance, students studying clinical psychology or organizational psychology may work on projects that explore the psychological effects of workplace stress or develop innovative mental health interventions.

For those looking to advance their careers quickly, Maryland's programs often integrate flexible learning pathways, including accelerated psychology programs online. These options allow students to gain the same high-level exposure to research and practice while accommodating their schedules. Such collaborations and innovative program structures equip students with the skills and networks needed to excel in both academic and professional settings.

What distinguishes school psychology career paths in Maryland?

School psychologists in Maryland assume a unique role by integrating mental health expertise within educational settings. They collaborate with educators and administrators to conduct in-depth assessments, develop targeted intervention strategies, and monitor student progress, ensuring that academic and behavioral challenges are effectively addressed. Understanding specific certification processes and state-led initiatives is crucial, so interested professionals should review the school psychologist requirements in Maryland for detailed educational and experiential criteria. This specialization demands a commitment to ongoing professional development and multidisciplinary collaboration to meet the evolving needs of diverse student populations.

Can accelerated PsyD programs fast-track your psychology career in Maryland?

Accelerated PsyD programs offer a streamlined pathway designed to condense rigorous academic and clinical training without compromising on quality. They integrate intensive coursework with early, hands-on practical experience, enabling candidates to satisfy licensure prerequisites in a reduced timeframe. Such programs are particularly beneficial for professionals who demonstrate strong academic performance and are eager to enter the workforce sooner. By minimizing the duration of training, these programs can lower overall educational costs and help graduates secure competitive roles within Maryland's dynamic mental health sector. For detailed information on available options, consider exploring accelerated PsyD programs.

Can specializing in applied behavior analysis enhance your psychology career in Maryland?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a specialized field that complements traditional psychology by focusing on evidence-based interventions for behavioral challenges in diverse settings. Professionals with expertise in ABA can tap into roles that involve designing and implementing intervention plans, conducting behavior assessments, and collaborating with educators and clinical teams to improve patient outcomes. This specialization adds versatility to a psychology career, offering opportunities in clinical environments, educational institutions, and community programs. For detailed steps on certification and advanced career integration, explore how to become a BCBA in Maryland.

How can specializing in criminal psychology expand career opportunities in Maryland?

Specializing in criminal psychology offers distinct career pathways by bridging psychology and forensic investigation. Professionals in this field work with law enforcement, correctional facilities, and forensic teams to assess offender behavior, contribute to criminal profiling, and support investigative processes. This niche specialization not only deepens expertise in behavioral analysis but also enhances career prospects in public safety, legal consultancy, and forensic research. For those seeking a detailed guide on entering this pathway, refer to how to become a criminal psychologist in Maryland.

How can specializing in substance abuse counseling benefit your career in Maryland?

Specializing in substance abuse counseling offers a strategic advantage by addressing a critical gap in Maryland’s mental health services. With rising rates of addiction and fewer specialized providers, professionals in this niche can access a growing market and make a tangible impact in underresourced communities. This focused pathway not only enhances career opportunities through diversified roles in clinical, community, and institutional settings, but also supports interdisciplinary collaboration with broader mental health initiatives. For a detailed guide on entering this field, refer to How to become a substance abuse counselor in Maryland?.

Can interdisciplinary training in forensic science expand your psychology career in Maryland?

Embracing cross-disciplinary expertise can strategically enhance professional versatility in Maryland’s competitive job market. Integrating forensic science training with psychological practice enables professionals to refine critical analytical skills and gain insights into legal and investigative processes. By pursuing targeted coursework or specialized certifications, psychologists can position themselves to meet the rigorous demands of roles that intersect mental health and forensic evaluation. For example, acquiring knowledge on degrees needed to work in forensic science in Maryland equips practitioners with competencies that support collaboration with law enforcement, judicial agencies, and multidisciplinary task forces. This integrated training not only broadens career opportunities but also enriches the professional’s ability to address complex behavioral challenges within public safety and legal contexts.

What are the continuing education and professional development requirements?

Psychologists in Maryland must meet specific continuing education standards to maintain active licensure and remain competitive in the evolving field. Professionals are required to complete accredited courses, workshops, and seminars that address advancements in research, ethical practices, and legal standards. It is essential to monitor state-specific mandates and updates—especially changes noted in our review of the Maryland psychology license requirements—as these can directly influence course selections and renewal processes. Additionally, engaging with industry associations and attending accredited conferences further supports professional growth by offering networking opportunities and access to the latest best practices in psychological services.

What are alternative training pathways for entering Maryland's mental health field?

In addition to conventional academic routes, targeted training programs offer a streamlined entry into Maryland's mental health sector. These pathways emphasize practical skills through accelerated certificate courses, intensive internships, and specialized state-endorsed programs that reduce training time while maintaining professional standards. Such alternatives can serve as viable options for professionals seeking to transition quickly into counseling roles without the extensive commitment required by traditional doctoral programs. For more details on expedited entry strategies, review our article on the fastest way to become a counselor in Maryland.

Licensing and Certification Pathways for Psychology Careers in Maryland

Navigating the licensing and certification process is a critical aspect of starting a psychology career in Maryland. The pathway to licensure not only ensures compliance with state regulations but also establishes professional credibility. Aspiring psychologists in Maryland must meet specific educational and experiential requirements, as regulated by the Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists. For those leaning toward careers in mental health therapy rather than general psychology, understanding the MFT licensing requirements in Maryland offers a specialized avenue to explore.

Licensed psychologists are required to complete a doctoral degree in psychology followed by significant supervised clinical experience, including an internship that adheres to strict state and national standards. Candidates must also pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and an additional state-specific jurisprudence exam. These steps ensure ethical and effective practice within Maryland’s diverse population.

For students interested in careers such as marriage and family therapy (MFT), certification provides an opportunity to work in settings that range from private practice to integrated care facilities. Pursuing MFT licensure in Maryland can open pathways to working with families, fostering mental wellness in relational contexts. You can learn more about this by examining the detailed steps outlined under the MFT licensing requirements in Maryland.

Understanding these processes early can help students align their education and internships with licensure requirements, making their transition to a professional role smoother and more efficient. Moreover, by meeting licensing standards, professionals can qualify for higher salaries and a broader spectrum of career opportunities in Maryland’s psychology and mental health sectors.

Is becoming a psychologist in Maryland worth it?

Becoming a psychologist in Maryland requires a significant investment of time and money, including earning a doctoral degree, completing supervised experience, and passing exams. The cost of earning a psychology degree can also be high, depending on the program and school. However, considering that the average salary of psychologists in the state is high, professionals who plan to live in the state can expect a comfortable lifestyle.

Furthermore, the demand for psychologists throughout the country is expected to increase as more communities become more educated about mental illnesses and other psychological issues. As such, becoming a psychologist in Maryland or any other state can be considered a good career investment.

Can pursuing an online doctoral program enhance career prospects in Maryland?

Online doctoral programs in psychology offer a flexible pathway to advanced expertise, especially for professionals balancing work and personal commitments. These programs emphasize contemporary research methodologies, advanced clinical practices, and innovative psychological theories that align with Maryland’s evolving mental health landscape. By accessing course materials asynchronously and collaborating with renowned experts in the field, candidates can augment their professional networks and adapt to industry changes efficiently. For further information on cost-effective and reputable options, consider exploring online PhD psychology.

How can a career in mental health counseling enhance your opportunities in Maryland?

Pursuing mental health counseling provides a focused pathway that emphasizes direct client engagement and community-based interventions. This alternative pathway can be especially valuable in addressing localized healthcare gaps while offering more flexible certification options compared to traditional psychology licensing. By obtaining targeted training and credentials, professionals can engage in specialized roles that support underserved populations and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. For a precise breakdown of the requirements and benefits, refer to our guide on how to become a mental health counselor in Maryland.

Key Insights

High Demand for Psychologists: Maryland faces a significant shortage of mental health providers, with one in five people living in areas with severe shortages.
Competitive Salaries: The average salary for psychologists in Maryland is $131,104, which is comparable to the national average, providing a compelling reason for professionals to settle in the state.
Comprehensive Licensing Requirements: To become a psychologist in Maryland, individuals must earn a doctorate degree, complete extensive supervised experience, and pass required exams.
Diverse Educational Opportunities: Maryland offers a variety of psychology programs across several universities, including undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels, with multiple specializations available.
Supportive Professional Environment: The state has professional associations like the Maryland Psychological Association that offer resources, networking opportunities, and support for psychologists.
Cost of Education: Tuition fees for psychology programs in Maryland vary widely, with undergraduate programs costing between $23,000 to $67,000 and doctoral programs potentially costing up to $174,000 for a five-year program.

FAQ

What is the job outlook for psychologists in Maryland?

The job outlook for psychologists in Maryland is positive due to a significant shortage of mental health providers. This high demand is expected to increase as awareness of mental health issues grows.

How much do psychologists in Maryland earn on average?

The average salary for psychologists in Maryland is $131,104, which is competitive with the national average salary of $134,325.

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

To become a licensed psychologist in Maryland, you must earn a bachelor's degree, followed by a master's and a doctorate in psychology. You must also complete supervised experience, pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), and the Maryland Jurisprudence Exam before applying for licensure.

How long does it take to become a psychologist in Maryland?

It can take approximately 10 years or more to become a licensed psychologist in Maryland, which includes completing a bachelor's degree (4 years), a master's degree (2 years), and a doctoral degree (3-5 years), plus required supervised experience.

What are the costs associated with psychology programs in Maryland?

The cost of psychology programs in Maryland varies: undergraduate programs range from $23,000 to $67,000, master's degrees can cost between $24,800 to $54,100, and doctoral programs can cost up to $174,000.

Which universities in Maryland offer psychology programs?

Top universities in Maryland offering psychology programs include the University of Maryland, Loyola University Maryland, John Hopkins University, Towson University, and St. Mary’s College of Maryland.

What should I look for in a psychology program in Maryland?

When choosing a psychology program, consider factors like accreditation, curriculum, opportunities for clinical experience, faculty expertise, and available resources for academic and professional development.

Is becoming a psychologist in Maryland worth it?

Becoming a psychologist in Maryland is worth it due to the high demand for mental health services, competitive salaries, and supportive professional environment. Despite the significant investment in time and money, the career prospects and potential for a comfortable lifestyle make it a good career investment.

What types of specializations are available in psychology programs in Maryland?

Maryland universities offer specializations in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and more.

Are there online psychology programs available in Maryland?

Yes, several universities in Maryland offer online psychology programs, including master's programs in organizational psychology and other specializations.

What opportunities exist for psychology students in Maryland to collaborate with leading research institutions or government agencies?

Psychology students in Maryland have exceptional opportunities to collaborate with leading research institutions and government agencies, thanks to the state's proximity to prominent organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Johns Hopkins University. Many psychology programs in Maryland foster partnerships with these institutions, offering students the chance to engage in cutting-edge research, internships, and collaborative projects. Additionally, students may find opportunities to work with government agencies in Washington, D.C., focusing on public health, policy, or mental health initiatives. These experiences provide invaluable exposure to advanced research and professional networks, enhancing students' academic and career prospects in psychology.