Best Psychology Schools in Montana – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

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The youth of Montana continues to struggle with mental health concerns and the lack of access to healthcare services. Between 2020 and 2021, 51.3% of residents from ages 12 to 17 who were diagnosed with depression were not able to get the professional help they needed (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2021). Aspiring and practicing licensed psychologists in the state may consider this alarming reality an opportunity to advance their education and training through the leading psychology programs in Montana.

To help you get started, our team at Research.com created this in-depth guide to the top psychology schools in Montana, the process of becoming a licensed psychologist in the state, and several key considerations when searching for credible psychology schools.

Best Psychology Schools in Montana Table of Contents

Is psychology a good job in Montana?
What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Montana?
Psychology Program Length in Montana
Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Montana
Montana Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025
What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Montana
What opportunities do psychology programs in Montana offer for research and fieldwork in rural mental health?
What are the prospects for pursuing criminal psychology in Montana?
What are the benefits of enrolling in an online psychology program in Montana?
Exploring Specialized Career Paths in Psychology in Montana
What Are the Steps to Become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in Montana?
Is an Online Psychology Doctorate Beneficial for Career Advancement in Montana?
How Can I Meet the School Psychologist Requirements in Montana?
How Can an Online Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Benefit Psychology Professionals in Montana?
How Can Accelerated Training Programs Propel Your Career in Montana?
How can mental health counseling address Montana’s growing mental health challenges?
What Are the Requirements and Opportunities for Substance Abuse Counseling in Montana?
How Can Psychology Professionals Integrate Forensic Science Expertise in Montana?
What are the Montana psychology license requirements?

Is psychology a good job in Montana?

Licensed psychologists who work in the State of Montana have a high earning potential, considering the standard cost of living for single adult residents without children. Local clinical and counseling psychologists had an estimated median annual wage of $74,956.8 in 2022. Meanwhile, school psychologists earned an estimated median annual wage of $64,627.2 during the same period [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023].

In contrast, single, childless residents of the Treasure State can make ends meet with an estimated gross annual income of $32,689, which already includes housing ($7,801), food ($4,686), and transportation ($5,316) (Glasmeier & Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2023). The figure is almost twice the estimated median annual wage of school psychologists and more than twice that of clinical and counseling psychologists. Notably, school, clinical, and counseling psychologists are three of the top paying psychology jobs in the US.

What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Montana?

Montana employed 220 clinical and counseling psychologists as well as 200 school psychologists in May 2022 (US BLS, 2023). These psychologists received specialized education and training in the different majors in psychology, as required by their psychology programs in Montana and the Montana Board of Psychologists (Board) for licensure. If you aim to be one of these qualified professionals, explore below the step-by-step process to becoming a licensed practitioner in the Treasure State.

Complete a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited school. You must earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field from an accredited academic institution. However, ensure that you are prepared to meet the entailed requirements of psychology programs in Montana, including admissions requirements, accessibility needs, and the financial cost of earning a bachelor’s degree. Notably, non-psychology majors may be instructed to complete prerequisite courses to be allowed to undergo the next educational requirement after college graduation.
Get a doctoral degree in your preferred specialty in psychology. You must complete a doctoral program in the field, either a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology program or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program. You must also ensure that you apply to reputable academic institutions with accredited psychology programs in Montana. Online graduate programs in psychology are also valid options to accomplish this academic requirement.
Acquire two years of supervised professional experience. Licensure applicants must gain two years or 3,200 hours of supervised work experience. Doctoral internships approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) may be recognized as part of this requirement, but only a maximum of 1,600 hours may be considered. The remaining supervised work hours must be completed after earning your doctorate.
Submit and pass the psychology licensure examinations. Send in your application along with your other requirements to the Board. The Board will notify you once your application has been approved, and you may take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). After completing the EPPP, the Board will inform you about the jurisdictional course you must also enroll in.
Claim your license from the Board. Once you pass the licensure examinations, the Board will notify you of the issuance of your license to legally practice as a psychologist in Montana. For further information, you may contact the Board or check out its detailed checklist of licensing requirements.

What professional organizations and resources support psychologists in Montana?

Psychologists in Montana have access to various professional organizations and resources that enhance their practice and support their professional development. These include:

Montana Psychological Association (MPA): A key organization representing psychologists in Montana, MPA offers networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and advocacy for the psychology profession at the state level.
American Psychological Association (APA): A national organization providing extensive resources, including research publications, practice guidelines, and continuing education opportunities, helping psychologists stay current with trends and advancements in the field.
National Register of Health Service Psychologists: This organization provides credentialing services and resources to psychologists, promoting best practices and facilitating access to licensure information and professional development.
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services: Offers resources and support for mental health initiatives, including grants and programs aimed at improving mental health services across the state.
Telehealth Resources: Organizations like the Center for Telehealth and eHealth Law provide guidelines and resources for psychologists interested in offering remote services, expanding access to care for rural populations.

Psychology Program Length in Montana

Undergraduate psychology programs in Montana may take four years to finish for full-time students, considering their minimum academic requirement of 120 credits. Employed undergraduate students may require more time to complete their programs to accommodate their work commitments. Meanwhile, PhD and PsyD programs may take between four years and seven years to complete. Doctoral fellows may be required to take part in research projects and internships.

Tuition and Costs of Psychology Programs in Montana

The annual cost of undergraduate psychology programs in Montana may be between $4,230 and $39,152 for full-time resident students and between $8,550 and $49,486 for full-time non-resident tuition. Meanwhile, graduate programs may require between $8,735.4 and $36,224 for resident students and between $35,781.9 and $62,746 for non-resident students annually. These figures may already take into account student fees, books and supplies, and technology fees.

Montana Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025

In 2022, Montana ranked 38th among the 50 states in the US for its high prevalence of mental illness and limited access to support for its youth (Mental Health America, 2022). This is a distress call that aspiring licensed psychologists have the unique chance to address. Fortunately, several psychology programs in Montana are designed to equip you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experiences, such as in primary and alternative therapeutic interventions, to become a successful professional in the field.

1. University of Montana

The University of Montana’s College of Humanities and Sciences offers an on-campus Bachelor of Arts (BA) program in Psychology. At the same time, its graduate school provides undergraduate degree holders with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Psychology. Moreover, the university is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCUU), and its psychology programs are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Programs Available:

BA in Psychology
PhD in Psychology

Specializations Available:

Clinical Psychology
Experimental Psychology
School Psychology

2. Carroll College

Located in the capital city of Helena, Carroll College is one of the private psychology schools in Montana that offers only a four-year undergraduate program in the field. The on-campus degree program may cost $39,152 annually for full-time students. Moreover, the college is accredited by the NWCUU.

Program Available:

BA in Psychology

3. Salish Kootenai College

Salish Kootenai College in Pablo, Montana, is a private academic institution that aims to support the higher education needs of Native Americans. The college developed many of its courses to be culturally relevant to deeply connect with students who are members of tribal communities. Its Division of Social Sciences offers two undergraduate programs: an Associate of Arts (AA) in Psychology degree program and a BA degree in Psychology. Moreover, the college is accredited by the NWCUU.

Programs Available:

AA in Psychology
BA in Psychology

4. Montana State University

Founded in 1893, the land-grant institution of Montana State University today houses its College of Letters and Sciences, which offers two on-campus psychology programs in Montana: an undergraduate program and a PhD program. The university is accredited by the NWCUU, while its PhD program is accredited by the APA.

Programs Available:

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology
Ph.D. in Psychological Science

5. University of Providence

The University of Providence provides its students with both online and on-campus options to complete their degree programs. However, the university only has an undergraduate program in psychology. Notably, it has a Master of Science (MS) in clinical mental health counseling, accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Moreover, the university is accredited by the NWCUU.

Programs Available:

BA in Psychology
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

What to Look for in a Psychology Program in Montana

Finding the right psychology programs in Montana can be difficult. Knowing your personal and educational requirements and satisfying the following considerations may help you determine the ideal academic institution and program for you.

Program Curriculum. Get clear on your personal and professional preferences and goals. Doing so may help you decide on a major and program curriculum that is appropriate and aligned with your ambitions. Careful research may also inform you of the most valuable majors considering the job market today.
Accessibility. Convenient access to your university or college, as well as to psychology programs in Montana certainly sets you up for academic success. The fewer obstacles in terms of location and technological requirements, the more smoothly your college or graduate school journey may run its course. Thus, ensure that your housing will be near your school if you plan to enroll in an on-campus program. Alternatively, be sure to meet the technological requirements and prepare the resource materials necessary for you to participate actively in your classes if you choose to take up an online degree.
Affordability. The cost of college in the US has been steadily increasing throughout the years. To boost your chances of completing your psychology programs in Montana, understand your financial situation first and figure out ways by which you may afford your preferred program and school. You may also want to consider applying for scholarship programs offered by academic institutions, government agencies, and private organizations.

What opportunities do psychology programs in Montana offer for research and fieldwork in rural mental health?

Psychology programs in Montana provide unique opportunities for students to engage in research and fieldwork focused on rural mental health, addressing the state’s significant mental health disparities. These programs emphasize practical experiences and innovative solutions to meet the needs of rural populations, where access to mental health services is often limited.

Students in psychology programs, such as those at the University of Montana and Montana State University, frequently participate in fieldwork placements within rural communities. These placements allow students to work directly with underserved populations, gaining firsthand experience in addressing issues such as geographic isolation, stigma, and resource scarcity. Additionally, universities often partner with local organizations to facilitate research on the effectiveness of interventions like telehealth, which has become a vital tool for expanding mental health care access in remote areas.

Research opportunities are another highlight of Montana’s psychology programs. Graduate students may collaborate with faculty on studies exploring the social determinants of mental health, the impact of cultural practices in Native American communities, or the efficacy of community-based mental health initiatives. For those looking to fast-track their careers while contributing to impactful research, exploring accelerated psychology programs online can provide flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. These hands-on experiences prepare students to address Montana’s pressing rural mental health needs effectively and innovatively.

What are the prospects for pursuing criminal psychology in Montana?

Professionals considering a specialization in criminal psychology can enhance Montana’s mental health and justice systems by focusing on forensic assessments, behavioral analysis, and evidence-based interventions. This niche field requires a targeted curriculum that prepares graduates to work collaboratively with law enforcement and legal professionals. Specialized training programs offer tailored coursework, internships, and continued education to hone skills in addressing criminal behavior and rehabilitation challenges. For those interested in exploring this dynamic subfield, detailed guidelines are available on how to become a criminal psychologist in Montana.

What are the benefits of enrolling in an online psychology program in Montana?

Online psychology programs provide a flexible and accessible path for students in Montana, especially those balancing work, family, or living in remote areas. These programs often deliver the same high-quality education as on-campus offerings while accommodating diverse schedules and needs.

Here are some key benefits:

Flexibility: Learn at your own pace with asynchronous courses or attend live virtual lectures that fit your schedule.
Access to Accredited Programs: Many universities offer fully accredited online degrees, ensuring your education meets professional standards. For example, students interested in specialized fields can explore options like a forensic psychology master's online accredited program from a recognized institution.
Reduced Costs: Save on expenses like housing, commuting, and campus fees while receiving the same education as on-campus students.
Wide Reach of Resources: Access digital libraries, virtual labs, and discussion forums, making it easier to stay connected and engaged with peers and faculty.
Rural Accessibility: For students in Montana's rural areas, online programs eliminate the need for relocation, making education more attainable.

Exploring Specialized Career Paths in Psychology in Montana

Montana offers aspiring psychologists various career paths to align with their professional goals and the unique needs of its communities. Beyond general clinical practice, specialized areas such as marriage and family therapy (MFT) represent a growing opportunity in the state. Professionals trained in MFT provide targeted mental health support to families and individuals, addressing relational dysfunctions often exacerbated in underserved rural areas.

To pursue a career in this specialization, understanding the MFT licensing requirements in Montana is crucial. This path requires candidates to complete a graduate degree in MFT or a closely related field, obtain supervised clinical experience, and pass relevant licensing examinations. The demand for trained marriage and family therapists in Montana is rising, driven by the need to address specific challenges, such as increasing rates of family stress and relationship strain, especially in isolated regions.

Students enrolled in psychology programs in Montana can prepare for such niche roles by selecting specialized electives, engaging in fieldwork, or pursuing dual-degree options that integrate family therapy elements. Additionally, partnering with local organizations during internships allows students to gain practical experience tailored to the state's demographic and cultural landscape. These strategic preparation steps not only broaden career opportunities but also support Montana’s overarching goal of improving access to critically needed mental health services statewide.

What Are the Steps to Become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in Montana?

Candidates aiming for BCBA certification in Montana must complete a structured pathway that includes accredited graduate-level coursework in applied behavior analysis, documented supervised fieldwork, and successful performance on the BCBA examination. Regulatory bodies set specific credit and internship hour benchmarks, ensuring that candidates are prepared for the rigorous analytical and intervention practices inherent to behavior analysis. For detailed procedural insights and state-specific requirements, explore how to become a BCBA in Montana.

Is an Online Psychology Doctorate Beneficial for Career Advancement in Montana?

Earning a doctorate in psychology provides professionals with advanced research skills, expert clinical insights, and leadership qualifications essential for addressing Montana’s complex mental health challenges. An online program affords the flexibility to balance rigorous coursework and scholarly research alongside clinical practice, promoting innovative intervention strategies that can directly improve service delivery across the state. Explore online psychology doctorate programs to access advanced training that supports elevated career opportunities and enhanced community impact.

How Can I Meet the School Psychologist Requirements in Montana?

Candidates pursuing a career in school psychology in Montana must adhere to specific licensure criteria that emphasize both academic rigor and practical experience. These requirements generally include completing an accredited program with a curriculum focused on educational settings, fulfilling a predetermined number of supervised internship hours, and successfully passing state examinations. Professionals should routinely review updates from regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with evolving guidelines. For complete details, refer to school psychologist requirements in Montana.

Help Improve Mental-healthcare Access for Montanans

Licensed psychologists have gone through years of education, training, and experience to fulfill their significant role in society. Therefore, many of them are compensated well for their work. The income potential of a career in psychology and the opportunities that come with being a psychologist may be the encouragement you need to pursue your dream of becoming a purposeful professional in the field. Start exploring accredited universities, colleges, and psychology programs in Montana to take the first step in helping improve access to mental healthcare services for individuals in need.

How Can an Online Applied Behavior Analysis Degree Benefit Psychology Professionals in Montana?

Completing an online applied behavior analysis degree equips psychology professionals with advanced, evidence-based strategies to address behavioral challenges in both clinical and educational settings. It enhances practitioners’ ability to design targeted interventions, supports collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, and promotes measurable improvements in patient outcomes. This specialized training is pivotal for addressing unique mental healthcare needs in Montana, particularly in rural and underserved communities, while also expanding career opportunities amid evolving industry standards.

How Can Accelerated Training Programs Propel Your Career in Montana?

Accelerated training pathways in Montana offer a focused approach to gaining essential credentials while reducing the traditional timeframe for entering the field. These programs integrate intensive coursework, practical fieldwork, and targeted exam preparation, which can significantly shorten the path from education to professional practice. They provide a strategic advantage for individuals looking to quickly respond to the rising demands in mental health services while maintaining high professional standards. For professionals seeking to expedite their entry into roles such as clinical or counseling practice, exploring the fastest way to become a counselor in Montana may reveal opportunities that blend rigorous training with accelerated career advancement.

How can mental health counseling address Montana’s growing mental health challenges?

Mental health counseling represents a strategic avenue for mitigating the service gaps in Montana’s mental healthcare system. Counselors in this field play a distinct role by emphasizing early intervention, preventative care, and patient-focused support, which complements traditional psychological practices. This specialized approach is particularly effective in both urban centers and rural areas where access to comprehensive services may be limited. Aspiring professionals can benefit from targeted training programs and state-specific licensure guidelines that streamline practice integration while addressing community-specific needs. For detailed guidance on entering this field, please review our guide on how to become a mental health counselor in Montana.

What Are the Requirements and Opportunities for Substance Abuse Counseling in Montana?

Substance abuse counseling plays an essential role in addressing Montana’s complex mental health landscape. Professionals in this field are expected to complete specialized coursework that prepares them for working with clients facing addiction challenges, alongside practical training in intervention techniques. Regulatory standards often include supervised field experiences and state-specific examinations, ensuring that counselors are equipped to deliver evidence-based care in both urban and rural areas. This career path not only complements traditional psychological services but also enhances community support systems by offering targeted intervention strategies. For detailed guidance on educational pathways and licensure requirements, please review How to become a substance abuse counselor in Montana?.

How Can Psychology Professionals Integrate Forensic Science Expertise in Montana?

Psychology professionals in Montana can expand their scope by integrating forensic science methodologies into their practice, thereby enhancing approaches to investigative and evaluative work. This interdisciplinary perspective not only enriches assessments in criminal behavior but also informs evidence-based practices in legal and rehabilitation contexts. For instance, professionals seeking to complement their clinical or research skills may consider exploring technical insights from degrees needed to work in forensic science in Montana, which can offer a framework for bridging psychological expertise with forensic analysis.

What are the Montana psychology license requirements?

Montana’s licensure framework is structured to ensure that practicing psychologists meet rigorous academic, ethical, and professional standards. State-specific procedures include the thorough evaluation of academic credentials, the verification of supervised clinical hours, and adherence to continuing education guidelines that support ongoing professional development. Regulatory updates, periodic jurisprudence exams, and renewal processes further underscore the importance of maintaining compliance with evolving state mandates. For comprehensive details on the eligibility criteria and procedural nuances, please review our article detailing the Montana psychology license requirements.

Key Insights

Mental Health Concerns: Between 2020 and 2021, 51.3% of Montanan youths aged 12 to 17 diagnosed with depression were unable to access professional help. This highlights a significant need for more licensed psychologists in the state.
High Earning Potential: Licensed psychologists in Montana earn competitive salaries, with clinical and counseling psychologists earning a median annual wage of $74,956.8, and school psychologists earning $64,627.2.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Montana is relatively low, with a single adult needing an estimated gross annual income of $32,689 to make ends meet, making the psychology profession financially rewarding.
Steps to Licensure: The process to become a licensed psychologist in Montana involves completing a bachelor’s degree, obtaining a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), gaining two years of supervised professional experience, and passing the required licensure exams.
Quality Education: Montana offers several accredited psychology programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, with options for both on-campus and online study.
Program Costs: The annual tuition for psychology programs in Montana ranges widely, from $4,230 to $49,486 for undergraduate programs, and from $8,735.4 to $62,746 for graduate programs.

FAQ

What is the job outlook for psychologists in Montana?

The job outlook for psychologists in Montana is positive, given the high demand for mental health services and the significant number of residents who are currently unable to access professional help.

What are the earning potentials for psychologists in Montana?

Clinical and counseling psychologists in Montana have a median annual wage of $74,956.8, while school psychologists earn a median of $64,627.2. These figures are well above the living wage for the state.

What steps are required to become a licensed psychologist in Montana?

To become a licensed psychologist in Montana, you must complete a bachelor’s degree, earn a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD), gain two years of supervised professional experience, and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the state’s jurisdictional exam.

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

Undergraduate psychology programs typically take four years for full-time students, while PhD and PsyD programs can take between four and seven years to complete, depending on the specific program and whether the student is studying full-time.

What is the cost of tuition for psychology programs in Montana?

Tuition for undergraduate psychology programs ranges from $4,230 to $49,486 annually, while graduate programs can cost between $8,735.4 and $62,746 per year. These costs include tuition, student fees, books, supplies, and technology fees.

What are the top psychology schools in Montana?

Some of the top psychology schools in Montana include the University of Montana, Carroll College, Salish Kootenai College, Montana State University, and the University of Providence.

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

When choosing a psychology program, consider the curriculum, accessibility, affordability, and the program’s accreditation. Ensure that the program aligns with your career goals and provides the necessary training and support for licensure.

Are there online psychology programs available in Montana?

Yes, several institutions in Montana offer online psychology programs, which can provide flexibility for students who need to balance their studies with other commitments.

What types of psychology degrees are available in Montana?

Montana offers a range of psychology degrees, including Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Master of Science (MS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology, as well as specialized programs in clinical, experimental, and school psychology.

How can becoming a psychologist help improve mental healthcare access in Montana?

By becoming a licensed psychologist in Montana, you can help address the significant mental health needs in the state, providing essential services to underserved populations and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

What unique challenges and opportunities do psychology programs in Montana offer for studying rural mental health?

Psychology programs in Montana offer unique challenges and opportunities for studying rural mental health by focusing on the specific needs and issues faced by rural communities. Students learn about the barriers to accessing mental health care, such as geographic isolation and limited resources, while also exploring innovative solutions like telehealth services. Programs often include fieldwork and internships in rural settings, providing hands-on experience in addressing these challenges. Additionally, students engage in research projects that investigate rural mental health trends and effective intervention strategies. This specialized focus prepares graduates to improve mental health services and advocate for underserved populations in rural areas.

References

Glasmeier, A. K. & Massachusetts Institute of Technology. (2023). Living Wage Calculation for Montana. https://livingwage.mit.edu/states/30
Mental Health America. (2022). Ranking the States 2022. https://mhanational.org/issues/2022/ranking-states
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021). https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/StateFactSheets/MontanaStateFactSheet.pdf
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, Montana. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_mt.htm