Best Psychology Schools in Minnesota – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

A psychology career may not sound like a good idea in states like Minnesota, where the economy is dominated by industries like manufacturing, real estate, and rental services. However, mental health is a growing concern in The North Star State. According to an analysis by the non-profit organization KFF (2023), 28% of adult Minnesotans reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder in 2023.

This figure emphasizes the state’s need for mental health professionals like psychologists and counselors. To help aspiring psychologists get a headstart, our team at Research.com has put together this in-depth guide to the best psychology schools in Minnesota. Our team has accumulated crucial information, including program length, concentrations offered, and costs, to help students make smart decisions. We will also try to answer the most common questions about the field, such as “How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in psychology?"

Best Psychology Schools in Minnesota Table of Contents

1. Is being a psychologist a good job in Minnesota?
2. What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Minnesota?
3. Psychology Program Length in Minnesota
4. Tuition and Costs of Psychology Schools in Minnesota
5. Best Psychology Schools in Minnesota for 2025
6. What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Minnesota
7. What are the specific prerequisites for school psychology careers in Minnesota?
8. How do psychology programs in Minnesota address the mental health needs of underserved communities?
9. What are the advantages of integrating behavior analysis certification into psychology education in Minnesota?
10. How do research opportunities and academic partnerships enhance psychology education in Minnesota?
11. What specialized training or certification programs are available for psychology students in Minnesota?
12. What are the essential Minnesota psychology license requirements?
13. What are the pathways to becoming a mental health counselor in Minnesota?
14. How does developmental psychology inform evidence-based practices in Minnesota?
15. Emerging Trends in Psychology Education and Career Prospects in Minnesota
16. How Can Psychology Programs Support Forensic Science Careers in Minnesota?
17. What Are the Career Opportunities for Criminal Psychologists in Minnesota?
18. What Sets Mental Health Counseling Apart in Minnesota?

Is being a psychologist a good job in Minnesota?

Minnesota has plenty of promises for those planning a psychology career or education. From 2016 to 2020, the number of mental health professionals in the state grew by 27%, and this growth is not projected to slow. According to Projections Central (n.d.), clinical, counseling, and school psychologist roles in the state will increase by 3.4% until 2030.

If you need more convincing to become a psychologist in this state, continue reading.

• Cost of living. Cost of living indices are based on a national average of 100. In Best Places’ report, the cost of living in Minnesota is 97.2, which is generally deemed rather affordable.
• High income potential. The BLS reveals that Rochester, Minnesota is one of the metropolitan areas with the highest concentration of jobs and location quotients in psychologists. It also has the highest annual mean wage for said positions ($129,260).
• One of the most educated U.S. states. Minnesota is among the most educated U.S. states, in both average educational attainment levels and available education quality. As a leading center of education in the Midwest, the state has all sizes and types of schools. If you wish to make a career shift, for instance, by taking a sports psychology program or advancing your education, psychology schools in Minnesota have many options to offer.

What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Minnesota?

Those who want to work as psychologists in Minnesota must first become officially licensed in the state. This means taking steps to apply to the Minnesota Board of Psychology. Let’s have a deeper look at what’s called for:

1. Enrolling in an undergraduate degree in psychology. While it may not be a requirement to major in psychology in an undergraduate degree, most doctoral degrees that admit students straight out of college will favor those who have one, especially if they are obtained from the best colleges for psychology in Minnesota.

2. Earning a doctoral degree in psychology. Doctoral programs must come from APA-accredited psychology schools in Minnesota. If not, the psychology degree MN must at least meet all of the requirements set forth by the Minnesota Board. Degrees can be a doctor of philosophy in psychology or a doctor of psychology. Note that doctorate degree-holders are the ones who can practice in the state, but unlike in other states, you do not need to have extra post-doctoral supervised experience.

3. Passing an exam. Pass the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Professional Responsibility Examination (PRE). The EPPP has eight focus areas: biological bases of behavior, growth, and lifespan development and assessment and diagnosis. On the other hand, the PRE is focused on the Minnesota Psychology Practice Act’s ethics and rules of conduct for psychologists.

4. License renewal. Once awarded, a psychologist in Minnesota stays current for two years from the date of issuance. Licensees must fulfill 40 hours of qualified continuing education activities during every license renewal timeframe.

What career opportunities exist for psychology graduates in Minnesota?

Graduating with a degree in psychology from one of Minnesota's accredited colleges opens the door to a variety of rewarding career paths. The increasing demand for mental health services creates numerous opportunities for psychology graduates. Here are some of the career options available:

• Clinical Psychologist: Work in hospitals, mental health clinics, or private practices, providing therapy and counseling to individuals dealing with mental health issues.
• Counseling Psychologist: Help clients navigate personal challenges and emotional distress through counseling, often in schools, community centers, or private practices.
• School Psychologist: Collaborate with educators and parents to support students' mental health and educational needs, assessing learning and behavior issues in school settings.
• Industrial-Organizational Psychologist: Apply psychological principles in the workplace to improve employee productivity, satisfaction, and overall organizational effectiveness.
• Research Assistant: Work in academic or private research settings, assisting in psychological studies and experiments, which can lead to further academic opportunities or research roles.
• Human Resources Specialist: Utilize psychological knowledge to help organizations manage their workforce, focusing on recruitment, training, and employee well-being.
• Social Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families in need, often requiring additional certification or training beyond a psychology degree.

Psychology Program Length in Minnesota

Associate psychology programs Minnesota schools offer are two-year programs that can be a great way to get started in the field. But they only lead to limited entry-level roles in the industry.

A longer program, for example, a four-year bachelor’s degree usually provides more in-depth knowledge and clinical training. Achieving a bachelor’s degree in psychology would make you qualified for more entry-level roles and enable you to continue into graduate school. Graduate studies such as psychology masters programs Minnesota schools offer lead to higher-rank psychology positions.

A master’s program, usually spanning two to three years in psychology schools in Minnesota, is the most popular path and the one you will have to take to enter clinical practice. Meanwhile, a doctorate in psychology is the highest type of degree you can obtain in the field, which is likely to land you the highest paid psychologist jobs. PhD or PsyD programs Minnesota students enroll in may require four to seven years to complete.

Tuition and Costs of Psychology Schools in Minnesota

The average 2020-21 in-state tuition at public four-year schools in Minnesota is $21,858, while private four-year schools can cost $45,775 (National Center for Education Statistics, n.d.). Our research found that psychology schools in Minnesota offer programs that can get as cheap as $2,500 and as steep as $50,000.

This is where the Minnesota Academic Excellence Scholarship comes in, as it can cover the entire price of tuition and fees at public schools in the state. You may also want to consider the affordability, flexibility, and convenience offered by an online psychology degree Minnesota colleges and universities offer.

Best Psychology Schools in Minnesota for 2025

The many educational institutions throughout the state provide students with various options to earn a psychology degree. Research.com will help you pinpoint your prospects by putting together the best psychology schools in Minnesota in the list below.

1. University of St. Thomas-Minnesota, BA in Psychology

The BA in Psychology program of the University of St. Thomas provides a scientific point of view of human behavior and thinking, which is founded in active research engagement and nurtured by an all-inclusive and collaborative educational environment. Students take cognitive, clinical, biological, and social and developmental psychology courses. St. Thomas also offers a psychology masters programs MN students can pursue for advanced studies.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Research, Education, Social Work, and more
• Average Cost for 2025 students: $2,528 (for families with an adjusted gross income of under $50,000 per year, plus scholarship); $23,068 (with scholarship only)
• Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
• Accreditation: Minnesota Office of Higher Education (MOHE)

2. St. Catherine University, BA in Psychology

St. Catherine University‘s College for Women offers a BA in Psychology with plenty of opportunities to acquire professional experience. Its faculty partners students with projects that lead to promising collaborations. St. Catherine’s College for Adults also offers an online psychology degree MN students can choose if they want a more flexible schedule.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: N/A
• Average Cost After Aid: $18,000
• Required Credits to Graduate: 128
• Accreditation: HLC

3. University of Minnesota Twin Cities, BS in Psychology

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities Psychology program is keen on scientific studies, within and outside of psychology. It offers strong scientific training in biological and quantitative psychology accompanied by an expansive education in similar fields, such as chemistry, computer science, and mathematics, to name a few. It aims to prepare students for graduate studies and careers related to healthcare, research, and more.

• Program Length: N/A
• Tracks/Concentrations: Healthcare & Science, Education, Business, Communications & Media, and more
• Cost: $31,348 (in-state and reciprocity); $52,088 (nonresident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Accreditation: HLC

4. Minnesota State University-Mankato, MA in Industrial Organizational Psychology

Minnesota State University‘s MA in Industrial Organizational Psychology leads to HR, organizational efficiency, management, and I-O psychology consulting jobs. It can also lead to doctoral-level study in I-O psychology or relevant fields. Here, students participate in the I-O community by participating in class projects, professional organizations, and the Consulting Challenge.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: N/A
• Cost for 12 credits: $6,121.20 (resident); $9,181.80 (nonresident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Augsburg University, PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Augsburg University‘s PsyD strives to educate and train students based on the practitioner-scholar model. Its curriculum integrates psychological research, theory, and clinical practice with diverse populations. Students develop diagnostic assessment and therapeutic intervention skills in small classes and cohorts.

• Program Length: 5 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: N/A
• Cost: N/A
• Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
• Accreditation: APA

What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Minnesota

When you’re done choosing what you think is the right program for you, the next thing to think about are the critical pointers that come with that program. This could be accreditation, clinical and research opportunities, and support services.

• Accreditation. In psychology, accreditation ensures quality standards for research and teaching. Only graduates of accredited degrees may also be able to work in clinical and nonmedical roles. The American Psychological Association (APA) is one of the most recognized firms responsible for the national accreditation of psychology programs.
• Internship and clinical opportunities. If your interests lie in clinical psychology or other applied domains, like forensic psychology career trajectories, verify if the program comes with an internship or clinical opportunities.
• Research opportunities. Research experience is an imperative factor for both learning and creating your resume.
• Support services. Assess the availability of academic advising, career counseling, and other support services to help you thrive in your academics and career.

What are the specific prerequisites for school psychology careers in Minnesota?

Minnesota’s school psychology pathways are designed to build on foundational psychology knowledge with targeted training in child development, educational assessment, and intervention strategies tailored for K–12 settings. Programs require completion of specialized coursework focused on educational systems, behavioral assessment, and evidence-based strategies for addressing student challenges. Rigorous practicum placements in school environments further equip candidates with the skills necessary for real-world application. Prospective school psychologists should review school psychologist requirements in Minnesota to ensure they meet the state-mandated certification and licensure criteria essential for effective practice.

How do psychology programs in Minnesota address the mental health needs of underserved communities?

Psychology programs in Minnesota, including accelerated psychology programs online,  have been proactive in addressing the mental health needs of underserved communities, reflecting the growing demand for culturally competent and community-oriented mental health services. With many regions in Minnesota reporting limited access to mental health professionals, universities are integrating targeted training and outreach initiatives into their psychology curriculums.

Programs like the University of Minnesota’s Clinical Psychology Ph.D. emphasize community-based research and interventions, equipping students with skills to work effectively in rural and economically disadvantaged areas. Similarly, schools such as Minnesota State University-Mankato incorporate service-learning projects and partnerships with local clinics to expose students to the unique challenges of underserved populations. This hands-on experience prepares graduates to address barriers to care, such as stigma, affordability, and geographic limitations.

Additionally, many programs in the state focus on cultural competence, ensuring graduates are prepared to work with diverse populations. For example, coursework and internships often emphasize understanding the social determinants of mental health, trauma-informed care, and approaches tailored to immigrant and Native American communities. These efforts make psychology graduates from Minnesota uniquely equipped to tackle the state’s pressing mental health disparities while fostering long-term community impact.

What are the advantages of integrating behavior analysis certification into psychology education in Minnesota?

Integrating behavior analysis into a psychology curriculum offers distinct advantages by expanding clinical competencies and opening additional career pathways focused on evidence-based behavioral interventions. Professionals with a certification in behavior analysis are well-equipped to design, implement, and evaluate interventions for individuals with developmental and behavioral disorders. Such expertise not only enhances therapeutic outcomes but also complements traditional psychology training by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and data-driven decision-making. For those interested in adding this valuable skill to their educational profile, detailed guidance on the certification process is available at how to become a BCBA in Minnesota.

How do research opportunities and academic partnerships enhance psychology education in Minnesota?

Psychology programs in Minnesota frequently integrate academic research initiatives and local partnerships to bridge classroom theory with real-world practice. Collaborations with research centers, healthcare institutions, and community organizations offer students exposure to innovative methodologies and data-driven projects that advance clinical expertise and scholarly output. These experiences not only foster critical thinking and technical skills but also create pathways for publication and professional networking. For students seeking additional flexibility and cost-effective options, exploring an affordable online psychology degree can further expand access to collaborative research platforms and academic partnerships.

What specialized training or certification programs are available for psychology students in Minnesota?

Minnesota offers a range of specialized training and certification programs designed to enhance the skills of psychology students and professionals. These programs help individuals focus on niche practice areas, boosting employability and career flexibility. Common specializations include certifications in trauma-focused therapy, behavioral health, neuropsychology, and substance use treatment.

For instance, students can pursue advanced clinical or counseling psychology training focusing on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Additionally, Minnesota provides school and industrial-organizational psychology certification programs, expanding potential career paths.

These specialized programs often involve extra coursework, supervised clinical practice, and passing certification exams. Universities such as the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology offer certificate programs and specialized workshops that complement doctoral and master's degree programs.

Understanding how long does it take to become a marriage counselor or other specialized psychology professional can help students plan their educational journey and career path. Certification can be particularly valuable in Minnesota's competitive job market, where specific expertise meets the state's evolving mental health needs.

What are the essential Minnesota psychology license requirements?

In addition to meeting academic and clinical training benchmarks, Minnesota enforces stringent stipulations to ensure ongoing professional competence. Candidates must comply with state-specific jurisprudence and ethical standards, including detailed protocols for exam retakes, timely submission of continuing education credits, and adherence to annual practice guidelines. These measures work together to maintain high-quality service and safeguard the public interest in mental health care. For a comprehensive outline of all mandated criteria and procedural details, please review our guide on the Minnesota psychology license requirements.

What are the pathways to becoming a mental health counselor in Minnesota?

Pursuing a counseling career offers an alternative yet impactful route to addressing Minnesota’s evolving mental health challenges. Specialized counseling programs now emphasize early intervention, culturally competent care, and practical experience through hands-on placements that align with state licensure requirements. Accelerated tracks are emerging to meet the pressing demand for mental health professionals, enabling candidates to benefit from streamlined educational pathways and intensive skill-development modules. Prospective counselors are encouraged to review guidelines and available programs to determine eligibility and enrollment criteria, ensuring they embark on the fastest way to become a counselor in Minnesota.

How does developmental psychology inform evidence-based practices in Minnesota?

Developmental psychology research provides critical insights into the evolving behavioral and cognitive needs across the lifespan, enabling clinicians to tailor interventions with greater precision. Integrating developmental theories into practice supports the formulation of evidence-based treatment strategies that consider clients’ unique growth trajectories and life stages. This specialized focus enhances diagnostic accuracy and improves outcomes in both clinical and educational settings. For professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in this area, pursuing comprehensive studies through the best developmental psychology PhD programs can be instrumental in advancing innovative therapeutic approaches.

Emerging Trends in Psychology Education and Career Prospects in Minnesota

As the field of psychology evolves, staying informed about emerging educational and career trends is critical for aspiring professionals in Minnesota. One notable trend is the increased emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches within psychology programs. Schools are integrating courses that combine psychology with technology, public health, and policy-making. This shift prepares students to address modern challenges, such as the mental health implications of social media use or developing technology-driven therapeutic solutions.

Furthermore, the demand for specialized roles in fields like marriage and family therapy (MFT) continues to rise in Minnesota. Marriage and family therapists are at the forefront of providing mental health services tailored to familial and relational dynamics. To embark on this path, students must meet specific regulatory and educational standards. Aspiring MFTs are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the MFT licensing requirements in Minnesota to align their educational journey with state-mandated criteria.

Additionally, psychology programs are now placing greater emphasis on data-driven practices. Students are increasingly exposed to data analytics tools that enable more profound research insights and evidence-based decision-making in clinical or community settings. These advancements are complemented by an expanding focus on telepsychology, responding to growing reliance on virtual care platforms post-pandemic.

Recognizing these trends and leveraging the opportunities they present not only enhances educational outcomes but also ensures students are well-equipped for Minnesota's dynamic and evolving mental health landscape.

How Can Psychology Programs Support Forensic Science Careers in Minnesota?

Forensic science offers a complementary pathway that leverages psychology’s insights into human behavior with scientific investigative techniques. Minnesota institutions increasingly incorporate interdisciplinary modules and collaborative projects with forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies to improve critical analysis and evidence evaluation skills. Such approaches prepare students to interface with investigative teams, providing a competitive edge in forensic analysis. Graduates may also consider pursuing further specialization through degrees needed to work in forensic science in Minnesota, expanding their professional scope within the forensic science field.

What Are the Career Opportunities for Criminal Psychologists in Minnesota?

For professionals seeking a niche within psychology, criminal psychology offers distinct pathways in Minnesota’s diverse legal and correctional landscape. Academic programs and specialized training initiatives expose students to forensic assessment, criminal behavior analysis, and intervention strategies essential in settings ranging from state agencies to private consultancies. Graduates with expertise in this area are well-positioned to contribute to public safety, offender rehabilitation, and evidence-based criminal justice strategies. For further guidance on pursuing this specialty, explore how to become a criminal psychologist in Minnesota.

What Sets Mental Health Counseling Apart in Minnesota?

The growing demand for accessible behavioral health services has spotlighted mental health counseling as a vital component of Minnesota's healthcare landscape. Mental health counselors focus on delivering immediate, community-based care that bridges the gap between clinical intervention and affordable support. Their role emphasizes evidence-based practices specifically tailored to diverse local populations and cultural needs. This pathway underscores a commitment to early intervention, client-centered care, and responsiveness to regional mental health challenges. For professionals considering this focused career trajectory, learn how to become a mental health counselor in Minnesota to align your education and training with evolving state-specific requirements.

The Need for More Psychology Graduates

At the peak of COVID-19, APA affirmed that psychological interventions are salient to help people deal with stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression from experiencing a health crisis and coping with isolation, illness, and a loved one’s death. This only implies one thing: that social service bodies and mental health facilities now need more psychology graduates.

So, is a career in psychology worth it? In the world that we live in today, where there is an emphasis on fostering positive changes to boost overall health, a psychology degree is more worthwhile than ever. And it will become more beneficial as we cope with the pandemic’s ongoing repercussions and the mental health issues that continue to arise from such an experience.

Key Insights

• Rising Demand for Mental Health Professionals: In 2023, 28% of adult Minnesotans reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder, indicating a growing need for mental health services.
• Job Growth for Psychologists: The number of mental health professionals in Minnesota increased by 27% from 2016 to 2020. Clinical, counseling, and school psychologist roles are projected to grow by 3.4% until 2030.
• High Income Potential: Psychologists in Rochester, Minnesota, earn a high annual mean wage of $129,260, reflecting the lucrative nature of the profession in certain areas.
• Educational Excellence: Minnesota is one of the most educated states in the U.S., providing a variety of high-quality psychology programs across different institutions.
• Affordable Living: With a cost of living index of 97.2, Minnesota is generally affordable, making it a practical location for pursuing a psychology career.
• Licensure Requirements: To become a licensed psychologist in Minnesota, one must complete a doctoral degree from an APA-accredited program, pass the EPPP and PRE exams, and renew the license every two years with 40 hours of continuing education.

FAQ

1. What are the steps to becoming a licensed psychologist in Minnesota? The steps include enrolling in an undergraduate degree in psychology, earning a doctoral degree from an APA-accredited program, passing the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Professional Responsibility Examination (PRE), and fulfilling license renewal requirements every two years with 40 hours of continuing education.
2. How long does it take to become a psychologist in Minnesota? It typically takes about four years to complete a bachelor's degree, two to three years for a master's degree, and an additional four to seven years for a doctoral degree. In total, the process can take around 10-14 years, including required internships and clinical experience.
3. What is the cost of psychology programs in Minnesota? The cost varies widely. Public four-year schools average $21,858 for in-state tuition, while private institutions can cost around $45,775. Some programs may cost as little as $2,500 or as much as $50,000 annually.
4. Are there scholarships available for psychology students in Minnesota? Yes, scholarships such as the Minnesota Academic Excellence Scholarship can cover the entire cost of tuition and fees at public schools in the state. Additional financial aid options are also available.
5. What are the job prospects for psychologists in Minnesota? Job prospects are promising due to the increasing demand for mental health services. The state has seen a significant growth in the number of mental health professionals, and roles for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists are expected to continue growing.
6. What is the average salary for psychologists in Minnesota? The average annual mean wage for psychologists in Rochester, Minnesota, is $129,260. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and level of experience.
7. What types of psychology programs are available in Minnesota? Minnesota offers a range of programs, including associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees (PhD and PsyD). Specializations include clinical psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and more.
8. What should I look for in a psychology program in Minnesota? Key factors include accreditation (preferably by the APA), internship and clinical opportunities, research opportunities, and support services such as academic advising and career counseling.
9. Can I practice psychology in Minnesota with an out-of-state degree? Yes, but the degree must meet the requirements set forth by the Minnesota Board of Psychology. Additional steps may be required for licensure, including passing state-specific exams.
10. What continuing education is required for psychologists in Minnesota? Licensed psychologists in Minnesota must complete 40 hours of qualified continuing education activities every two years to maintain their license.

This guide provides an overview of the steps, costs, and prospects for pursuing a psychology career in Minnesota, highlighting the importance of mental health professionals in the state.

References

• Best Places. (n.d.). Cost of Living in Minnesota. Retrieved September 11, 2023, from Best Places.
• BLS. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022: Psychologists, All Other. Retrieved September 11, 2023, from BLS.
• Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. (n.d.). Advanced Manufacturing. Retrieved September 11, 2023, from Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
• National Center for Education Statistics. (n.d.). Average undergraduate tuition, fees, room, and board charges for full-time students in degree-granting postsecondary institutions, by control and level of institution and state or jurisdiction: 2019-20 and 2020-21. Retrieved September 12, 2023, from National Center for Education Statistics.
• Projections Central. (n.d.). Long-Term Occupational Projections. Retrieved September 11, 2023, from Projections Central.