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Best Psychology Schools in New Hampshire – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs
Psychology remains one of the most popular undergraduate fields of study among students in the United States. The same is true for learners in the Granite State, where degrees awarded in psychology schools in New Hampshire increase each year. In 2021 alone, the state awarded 2,199 bachelor’s degrees in Psychology (American Psychological Association, 2021).
Building on that, an advanced degree in psychology enables you to work with diverse individuals and communities and gain hands-on experiences to create meaningful changes in people’s lives. Whether you wish to be a clinical psychologist or a professor in psychology, the state offers plenty of avenues to achieve this.
To guide you in this endeavor, our team lists psychology schools in New Hampshire and explores program costs, duration, and factors to consider when looking into psychology education. We also discuss how to become a licensed professional in New Hampshire and identify the perks and drawbacks of working in the state to help you make more informed decisions.
Best Psychology Schools in New Hampshire Table of Contents
Enrolling in psychology schools in New Hampshire promises bright opportunities to students who wish to enter the profession. At the same time, there are downsides to working in the state. This section points out a few pros and cons of living in New Hampshire to help you weigh your options.
Pros of being a Psychologist in New Hampshire
Flexible industry. As you evaluate the available careers with psychology degree, you will discover that psychologists can work in various settings, like private clinics, schools, universities, hospitals, and corporate offices. More specialized psychologists also thrive in the sports and forensics industries. This presents a versatile profession you can tailor to your passions and interests.
Generally tax-friendly. This low-crime state does not impose sales taxes. Furthermore, its income taxes only apply to investment earnings and dividends but not to earned wages (Tax Foundation, 2023), making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking to minimize their tax burdens.
Cons of being a Psychologist in New Hampshire
Relatively low income. Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists earn less than the national average in New Hampshire. However, other psychologist types make above the national average, at $113,050 yearly (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Wages in Nashua are also slightly higher than in other cities in the state, bringing a silver lining to prospective psychologists in the state.
High property taxes and cost of living. New Hampshire, while tax-friendly, ranks third in elevated property tax rates, reaching 1.93% in 2021 (Yushkov, 2023). The cost of living in New Hampshire is also 12.3% to 22.7% higher than the national baseline (Salary.com, 2023), which could urge residents to consider their financial planning carefully.
What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in New Hampshire?
In 2022, there were 270 school psychologists and 190 clinical and counseling psychologists in New Hampshire (BLS, 2023). To become part of this growing profession, you must:
Pursue a master’s degree through graduate schools in New Hampshire to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Attend an APA-accredited doctorate to qualify for the national exam. This should include a 1,500-hour clinical internship with the guidance of a licensed professional.
Clock in a minimum of 1,500 hours of post-doctoral experience under close supervision.
Take and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and accomplish the written essay questions.
Apply for licensure, submit all necessary documents as stated in the application instructions, and pay the $316 application fee. You also need to undergo a criminal check.
What career support resources are available for psychology students in New Hampshire?
Psychology students in New Hampshire can benefit from several resources that aid in career preparation and job placement after graduation. Here are some valuable resources to consider:
Career counseling services: Most psychology programs offer dedicated career counseling to help students explore job opportunities, prepare resumes, and practice interview skills. These services guide students toward finding roles that match their specific psychology expertise.
Internship placement assistance: Many schools provide structured support to connect students with internships in clinics, schools, or hospitals. These experiences are essential for gaining hands-on practice and fulfilling licensure requirements.
Alumni networks: Psychology programs often have robust alumni networks that offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and insights into career paths. This connection can help students understand potential challenges and successes in various psychology fields.
Professional workshops: Schools may host workshops focusing on job market trends, negotiation skills, and professional development. These events keep students updated on industry standards and assist in skill-building.
Career fairs: Institutions regularly organize career fairs, where students can connect directly with employers from local clinics, mental health organizations, schools, and corporate offices, gaining exposure to potential job openings.
Psychology Program Length in New Hampshire
When researching psychology schools in New Hampshire, you must factor in the time it takes to complete your degree because this will impact your ability to enter the industry. While there is a BA and BS Psychology difference in terms of curriculum content, both typically last four years. A master’s program can take two to three years, but some institutions have a five-year accelerated bachelor’s to master’s degree pathway.
Meanwhile, doctorates span anywhere from two to six or even eight years, depending on your area of specialization and preferred schedule or academic load. As you evaluate your options, be sure to align your preferences to your desired program to manage expectations and meet your goals.
Tuition and Costs of Psychology Schools in New Hampshire
Most public four-year institutions require students to pay $17,020 (in-state) or $32,740 (out-of-state) for tuition and fees from 2022 to 2023 (Ma & Pender, 2022). However, the cost of psychology schools in New Hampshire may vary due to several factors like mandatory fees, meal and boarding, laboratory and clinical fees, and state charges.
Most clinical psychology programs online cost the same price regardless of residency but publish fees for digital services and resources. Among the institutions our team has explored, the ranges of tuition and fees were $200-$1,500/credit hour (undergraduate) and $500-$2,000/credit hour (graduate).
New Hampshire Schools Offering Psychology Programs for 2025
In this section, our team of experts at Research.com prepared a list of top psychology schools in New Hampshire to help aspiring students begin their academic journey. We looked into the institutions’ offerings, rankings, curricula, affordability, and other important criteria to curate this lineup.
1. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University presents a baccalaureate program that offers concentrations in Child and Adolescent Development, Forensics, and Mental Health. Its well-rounded program combines general education with core psychology studies, such as personality theories, statistics literacy, and lifespan development. Students also have the option to participate in an extensive internship at a partner facility or collaborate with a faculty member on research or publication.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $515/credit
Other Programs Offered: Online BS/BA, MS/MA
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
2. University of New Hampshire
The University of New Hampshire provides a convenient option for students to complete their credentials through an accelerated BA-MA Psychology program. As one of the top psychology schools in New Hampshire, the university offers specialties in Brain, Behavior and Cognition, Developmental Psychology, and Social Psychology/Personality. Learners can complete the program in five years, covering topics like behavior analysis, tests and measurement, and health psychology.
Plymouth State University introduces one of the best psychology graduate programs that integrates classroom work with hands-on activities to ensure students experience a well-rounded education. Its MEd/EdS includes 69 credits that tackle courses in K-12 school psychology like behavioral assessment, school neuropsychology, and intelligence tests. The program also features a 1,200-hour internship in a public K-12 school.
Accreditation: NECHE, National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
4. Antioch University New England
Antioch University New England is one of the APA-accredited psychology schools in New Hampshire that prepares students for licensure. The program has 120-128 credits, spanning topics in psychotherapeutic intervention, clinical expertise, health service delivery systems, and practicums in various settings. In their fifth year, students complete their 1,800-hour internship under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,794-$17,481/semester
Other Programs Offered: N/A
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), APA
5. Rivier University
Offering one of the most unique PsyD programs in New Hampshire, Rivier University integrates counseling and school psychology to help students master the skills needed in an ever-changing field. Its curriculum features at least six practicum experiences and 2,000 internship hours, ensuring that students become experts in their field and are licensure-ready. Most lessons are tailored to fit a generalist approach and follow a practitioner-scholar model.
Estimated Tuition Cost: $1,275/credit
Other Programs Offered: BA
Accreditation: NECHE, APA
What to Look for in a Psychology Program in New Hampshire
Given the urgent significance of mental health and well-being, the demand for psychologists continues to rise across the nation and in New Hampshire. Projections indicate an 11% employment increase for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in the state from 2020 to 2030 (O*NET OnLine, n.d.).
While there are alternative paths to enter this field, such as being a therapist with a non-psychology degree, this upward trend offers a flourishing future for those wishing to take the traditional path. Therefore, as you look into psychology schools in New Hampshire, our team presents other variables that you need to consider to make the most out of your education.
Scholarships. Since the cost of attendance in psychology schools can be quite expensive, you can apply for scholarships to help lessen the financial burden. The National Institute of Health offers undergraduate assistance, while the American Psychological Foundation has a program to help graduate learners with their educational expenses.
Accreditation. The APA accredits most doctoral programs in psychology and ensures that these meet established standards of quality. Although it does not evaluate undergraduate degrees, it provides aspiring students with helpful resources like the Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major.
Graduate success. Researching the program’s track record of graduate success can help you determine if the institution has a history of effectively preparing students for their careers. This includes employment rates, licensure pass rates, career services performance, and statistics on pursuing advanced degrees.
What unique mental health challenges does New Hampshire face in rural and underserved areas?
New Hampshire's rural and underserved communities present distinct mental health challenges that psychology programs in the state aim to address. With limited access to healthcare and an aging population, rural areas often face heightened rates of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Addressing these issues requires specialized training and innovative approaches.
Psychology schools in New Hampshire incorporate coursework and fieldwork that emphasize the social, economic, and geographic barriers impacting mental health in rural areas. Students often participate in internships and research initiatives focused on these underserved communities, developing skills in telepsychology and community-based interventions to reach populations with limited access to care.
Additionally, rural-focused psychology programs encourage students to pursue accelerated psychology programs online, offering flexibility to address the unique challenges of rural practice while preparing graduates for licensure and immediate impact. These initiatives equip future psychologists with the expertise needed to support rural communities effectively and sustainably.
What are the emerging psychology specializations in New Hampshire?
Recent developments in the field point to a growing shift toward interdisciplinary and specialized practice. Innovative programs increasingly integrate technology, public policy, and healthcare trends to address the complex mental health needs of diverse populations. For example, advanced curriculum in forensic and criminal psychology is gaining traction, with students exploring targeted trainings and niche career options, such as how to become a criminal psychologist in New Hampshire. Additionally, emerging areas such as neuropsychology, digital mental health, and integrated wellness approaches are reshaping how psychological services are delivered across the state. This evolving landscape encourages professionals to pursue specialization that aligns with both regional demands and future-oriented strategies.
What career options are available with a master's in psychology in New Hampshire?
A master’s degree in psychology opens the door to various career opportunities in New Hampshire, whether you’re interested in direct clinical work, research, or specialized fields such as organizational psychology. While a doctoral degree is typically required for certain roles, a master’s provides many pathways to rewarding and impactful careers in both mental health and non-clinical settings.
Here are some of the career options you can pursue with a master’s in psychology:
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): Help individuals, families, and groups cope with emotional and psychological issues in therapy or counseling settings. This is one of the most common careers for those with a master’s in psychology, especially in New Hampshire, where there is a growing need for mental health professionals.
School Psychologist: Work within educational systems to support students with learning disabilities, behavioral problems, or emotional issues. School psychologists are vital in both public and private schools in New Hampshire, contributing to a healthier learning environment.
Industrial-Organizational Psychologist: Apply psychological principles to workplace settings, helping businesses improve employee performance, satisfaction, and organizational structure. With the rise of corporate wellness and efficiency programs, this is a growing field for psychology graduates.
Researcher or Policy Analyst: Use your research skills to conduct studies in various sectors, such as public health, criminal justice, or social services, to inform policies and improve outcomes.
Forensic Psychologist: Assist in criminal investigations and work with law enforcement by evaluating suspects and offenders, offering expert testimony, and contributing to legal cases.
Healthcare Administrator: Manage mental health or rehabilitation facilities, where your knowledge of psychology can help shape programs that improve patient care and outcomes.
Whether you're interested in directly helping people or contributing to organizational development, a master's in psychology offers a diverse range of career paths. As you explore your options, you might ask, “what can I do with a master’s in psychology?”—and the answer is a wealth of fulfilling roles, each offering unique challenges and opportunities to make a meaningful impact in your community.
What makes an online forensic psychology degree valuable?
A specialized focus on forensic psychology can provide professionals with unique analytical and investigative skills that extend beyond traditional clinical practice. By integrating principles from both psychology and criminal justice, candidates can enhance their capability to interpret behavior in legal and correctional settings, supporting both public safety initiatives and mental health interventions. For those seeking to broaden their expertise, pursuing an online forensic psychology degree offers a flexible pathway to acquire targeted skills, making it easier to adapt to evolving industry demands while navigating complex casework and legal proceedings.
Licensure Pathways and Requirements for Aspiring Psychologists in New Hampshire
Understanding the licensure requirements is a pivotal step for psychology students planning to advance their careers in New Hampshire. Depending on the professional trajectory you wish to pursue, whether clinical psychology, school psychology, or marriage and family therapy, the licensing process requires careful navigation through educational, experiential, and examination components.
Specifically, students aiming to specialize as Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) must fulfill the educational prerequisites, accrue supervised practice hours, and pass nationally standardized examinations. For a comprehensive guide on how to meet these requirements, you can explore the detailed MFT licensing requirements in New Hampshire, which outlines every step to licensure, from academic qualifications to examination processes.
Equally critical for other psychology specializations is ensuring that your graduate program meets the accreditation standards defined by New Hampshire’s licensing board and that your supervised training experiences align with state mandates. This approach not only ensures eligibility for licensure but also prepares candidates for the challenges of applying psychological principles in diverse clinical or community-based settings.
By proactively aligning your educational and internship choices with licensure requirements, New Hampshire psychology students can seamlessly transition into the workforce equipped to contribute meaningfully to the field of mental health care.
What additional certifications can optimize your psychology career trajectory in New Hampshire?
Acquiring specialized certifications beyond degree and licensure requirements validates expertise in targeted practice areas and demonstrates commitment to professional growth. For instance, professionals seeking roles in educational settings can benefit from aligning credentials with established school psychologist requirements in New Hampshire. Pursuing accredited certifications that focus on advanced clinical skills, intervention strategies, and evidence-based practices further differentiates candidates in a competitive field and facilitates successful transitions from academic preparation to effective practice.
What are the career advancement and professional development opportunities for psychologists in New Hampshire?
Psychologists in New Hampshire can unlock additional growth through dedicated professional development and career advancement strategies. Local and state-wide associations offer workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events that help professionals stay updated with regulatory shifts and emerging treatment methodologies. Specialized paths, such as certification in behavior analysis—how to become a BCBA in New Hampshire—add a competitive edge by validating advanced expertise. By engaging in continuous education and interdisciplinary collaborations, practitioners not only expand their skillset but also contribute to innovative practices within community mental health initiatives.
How do online education options complement traditional psychology training in New Hampshire?
Online education offers an efficient supplement to traditional classroom training by providing innovative, flexible learning models that align with modern needs. These digital pathways allow students to access curated modules in advanced therapeutic techniques, research methods, and emerging treatment models at their own pace while meeting accreditation standards. In particular, many aspiring Marriage and Family Therapists can leverage online platforms to gain essential insights, as demonstrated by programs offering affordable online MFT programs. This integration of online education not only reduces overall training costs and time commitments but also prepares professionals to adopt telehealth practices and remote consultation strategies, thereby enhancing outreach in underserved communities.
What challenges and strategies exist for meeting licensure standards in New Hampshire?
Psychology professionals in New Hampshire face distinct regulatory benchmarks that influence both career planning and practice. Meeting these standards requires a precise strategy, combining rigorous academic training, defined supervised practice hours, and ongoing continuing education. By aligning practical experiences with state-specific mandates, candidates can effectively streamline their path to becoming fully licensed practitioners. For detailed information on these benchmarks and best practices to overcome common obstacles, refer to our article detailing the New Hampshire psychology license requirements.
What role does substance abuse counseling play in diversifying psychology careers in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, specialization in substance abuse counseling creates an alternative pathway within the broader psychology sector. Psychologists can expand their expertise by pursuing certification and targeted training in substance abuse counseling, thereby addressing a critical need in communities where mental health and addiction issues intersect. This focused approach not only fosters interprofessional collaboration but also meets the rising demand for integrated care models. To explore the detailed pathway and requirements, please refer to How to become a substance abuse counselor in New Hampshire?.
What are the benefits of specializing as a mental health counselor in New Hampshire?
Specializing as a mental health counselor in New Hampshire creates opportunities to address community-specific needs while enhancing personal expertise in direct client care and therapeutic interventions. This focus allows professionals to tailor evidence-based practices to support diverse populations, manage stress-related concerns, and mitigate gaps in mental health services—especially in regions with limited conventional care. In addition to fostering strong therapeutic alliances, the specialization broadens career pathways by integrating innovative treatment modalities and interdisciplinary collaboration. For further guidance on acquiring the essential credentials and navigating the state’s requirements, refer to our guide on how to become a mental health counselor in New Hampshire.
How does integrating forensic science enrich psychology careers in New Hampshire?
Integrating forensic science into psychology training offers professionals advanced investigative competencies that broaden career avenues, including roles in criminal behavior analysis and legal consultation. This interdisciplinary approach equips practitioners with enhanced analytical tools for case evaluation and evidence interpretation. Prospective students may consider specialized coursework in forensic methodologies alongside traditional psychological assessment to meet industry standards and niche demands, as outlined by degrees needed to work in forensic science in New Hampshire. Such a combination of skills not only differentiates candidates in competitive markets but also supports comprehensive strategies in addressing legal and mental health challenges.
How can mentorship and internship programs accelerate career readiness for psychologists in New Hampshire?
Mentorship and internship programs serve as pivotal accelerators in transitioning from academic training to professional practice by bridging theoretical learning with hands-on experience. These structured experiences enable emerging psychologists to refine practical skills—such as client engagement, ethical decision-making, and adaptability in varied clinical settings—while benefiting from the guidance of established professionals. Additionally, participating in well-designed mentorship initiatives and internships helps in building a robust network and attaining competence in real-world scenarios. For targeted strategies that combine accelerated training and certification, explore our guide on the fastest way to become a counselor in New Hampshire.
Contribute to the Well-Being of Populations through Psychology Schools in New Hampshire
In this guide, our team explored the program cost, duration, and curricula of some psychology schools in New Hampshire. We also shed some light on the implications of working as a professional in the state and how students can become licensed psychologists in the Granite State.
The opportunities in this field are as diverse as the human mind itself. With many interesting degrees to choose from, you must remember to determine the one that promises success or robust employment pathways. Moreover, choose the program that deepens your understanding of mental health and well-being and helps you to contribute to the betterment of individuals and communities within New Hampshire.
Key Insights
Growing Popularity of Psychology: Psychology remains a highly popular field of study in New Hampshire, with 2,199 bachelor's degrees awarded in 2021.
Advanced Degrees for Diverse Careers: Advanced degrees in psychology from New Hampshire schools prepare students for various careers, including clinical practice and academia.
Tax-Friendly Environment: New Hampshire does not impose sales taxes, and income taxes only apply to investment earnings and dividends, not earned wages.
High Demand for Psychologists: With an increasing need for mental health professionals, New Hampshire offers ample job opportunities for psychology graduates.
Flexible Career Options: Psychologists in New Hampshire can work in various settings such as private clinics, schools, hospitals, and corporate offices, offering a versatile career path.
Educational Pathways: New Hampshire provides a range of psychology programs, from bachelor's to doctoral levels, including accelerated and specialized tracks.
Challenges of High Living Costs: Despite the attractive tax benefits, New Hampshire has high property taxes and living costs, which prospective residents must consider.
FAQ
What are the benefits of pursuing a psychology degree in New Hampshire?
Pursuing a psychology degree in New Hampshire offers numerous benefits, including a variety of flexible career options, a tax-friendly environment, and a high demand for mental health professionals. Additionally, the state provides ample opportunities for hands-on experience and professional growth.
How do I become a licensed psychologist in New Hampshire?
To become a licensed psychologist in New Hampshire, you need to:
Obtain a bachelor's degree in psychology.
Pursue a master's degree and an APA-accredited doctorate in psychology.
Complete a 1,500-hour clinical internship and a minimum of 1,500 hours of post-doctoral experience under supervision.
Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and a written essay exam.
Apply for licensure with the New Hampshire Board of Psychologists and pay the application fee.
What is the duration of psychology programs in New Hampshire?
The duration of psychology programs in New Hampshire varies:
Bachelor's degrees typically take four years to complete.
Master's programs can take two to three years, with some offering accelerated five-year bachelor’s to master’s pathways.
Doctoral programs range from two to six or more years, depending on the area of specialization and academic load.
What are the tuition costs for psychology programs in New Hampshire?
Tuition costs for psychology programs in New Hampshire vary:
Public four-year institutions: $17,020 (in-state) and $32,740 (out-of-state) per year.
Clinical psychology programs: $200-$1,500 per credit hour (undergraduate) and $500-$2,000 per credit hour (graduate).
Additional costs may include mandatory fees, meal and boarding, and laboratory and clinical fees.
What types of psychology programs are available in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire offers a variety of psychology programs, including:
Bachelor's degrees (BA and BS) with various concentrations.
Master's degrees with accelerated options.
Doctoral programs (PhD and PsyD) focusing on different specializations like clinical, counseling, and school psychology.
What are the employment prospects for psychologists in New Hampshire?
Employment prospects for psychologists in New Hampshire are positive, with a projected 11% employment increase for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists from 2020 to 2030. The state has a growing demand for mental health professionals, providing ample job opportunities.
What are the pros and cons of working as a psychologist in New Hampshire?
Pros include a flexible industry with various work settings, a tax-friendly environment, and a high demand for psychologists. Cons include relatively low income for some psychology specializations compared to the national average and high property taxes and living costs.
What financial aid options are available for psychology students in New Hampshire?
Financial aid options for psychology students in New Hampshire include scholarships from organizations like the National Institute of Health and the American Psychological Foundation. Additionally, universities may offer financial aid packages and scholarships to help offset education costs.
What should I look for in a psychology program in New Hampshire?
When choosing a psychology program in New Hampshire, consider factors such as accreditation, program outcomes, hands-on experience opportunities, cost, and available scholarships. Look for programs with a strong track record of graduate success and career placement.
How does the cost of living in New Hampshire impact psychology professionals?
The cost of living in New Hampshire is 12.3% to 22.7% higher than the national average, with high property taxes being a significant factor. While the state offers tax benefits, professionals must carefully plan their finances to manage the higher living costs effectively.
How do psychology schools in New Hampshire incorporate the study of human behavior in rural and small-town communities?
Psychology schools in New Hampshire incorporate the study of human behavior in rural and small-town communities by focusing on the unique social, economic, and environmental factors that influence mental health in these areas. Students learn about the challenges of providing mental health services in regions with limited access to healthcare, higher rates of isolation, and strong community ties. Programs often include fieldwork and research opportunities in local communities, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. This experience prepares graduates to address the specific mental health needs of rural populations, fostering a deep understanding of the behavioral dynamics in small-town environments.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 state occupational employment and wage estimates New Hampshire. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nh.htm