Best Psychology Schools in North Carolina – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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In North Carolina, 24.9% of adults reported symptoms of depression and/or anxiety early in 2023 (KFF, 2023). Among the adults in the state who reported symptoms of depression and anxiety in May 2022, 18.3% said they did not immediately receive the counseling or therapy they needed. This reflects how some groups in North Carolina have to face barriers that keep them from accessing essential mental health services. Of these barriers, the shortage of mental health professionals—psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists—is crucial.

To strengthen people’s mental health, it is important to promote mental well-being and to make services accessible to those with mental health conditions. Fortunately, psychology schools in North Carolina are equipped to train a new generation of psychologists and counselors who can fill the gaps and help address the shortage of mental health professionals.

In this in-depth guide, our team of experts at Research.com collected data to help aspiring psychologists in North Carolina get started. We outlined the steps to becoming a licensed psychologist, provided an overview of the profession, came up with a list of the best psychology schools in North Carolina, and looked into the costs of earning a traditional or online bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Best Psychology Schools in North Carolina Table of Contents

1. Is North Carolina a good place for a psychologist?
2. What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in North Carolina?
3. Psychology Program Length in North Carolina
4. Tuition and Costs of Attending Psychology Schools in North Carolina
5. What to Look For in a Psychology Program in North Carolina
6. Psychology Schools in North Carolina Offering the Best Psychology Programs
7. How does North Carolina support aspiring marriage and family therapists?
8. What are the career prospects for psychology graduates in North Carolina?
9. What additional training or certifications can enhance my psychology career in North Carolina?
10. Should I pursue BCBA certification in North Carolina?
11. Can I specialize in criminal psychology in North Carolina?
12. What are the specific licensure requirements for school psychologists in North Carolina?
13. Are online PsyD programs a viable option in North Carolina?
14. What are the challenges in meeting North Carolina psychology license requirements?
15. What is the fastest way to become a counselor in North Carolina?
16. How does industrial-organizational psychology shape career opportunities in North Carolina?
17. How can I pursue a career in substance abuse counseling in North Carolina?
18. What qualifications do I need for a career in forensic science in North Carolina?
19. How can I become a mental health counselor in North Carolina?

Is North Carolina a good place for a psychologist?

North Carolina is home to an estimated 10,699,000 people as of 2022 (U.S. Census, 2022). This population size represents a promising opportunity for those who want to pursue a career helping people deal with mental health conditions, relationship issues, and emotional and social stress.

There are many different types of jobs for psychology degree graduates in The Old North State. Psychology career options in North Carolina include that of a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, industrial-organizational psychologist, forensic psychologist, and health psychologist, among other choices.

Psychology salary and outlook in North Carolina are also good. For one, the demand for psychologists in the state is expected to grow faster than average in the coming years. The employment rate for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists alone is projected to grow 10% from 2020 to 2030 (O*Net OnLine, 2022). Meanwhile, employment rates for industrial psychologists and for all other types of psychologists are expected to increase by 5% and 9%, respectively, within the same 10-year period.

Psychologists earn a substantial wage. The mean annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists in North Carolina is $93,010 (BLS, 2023). Industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average of $73,260, school psychologists earn an average of $64,060, and other types of psychologists earn an average of $93,970.

These figures may be lower than the national average for these professions, but the cost of living in North Carolina is relatively low. In fact, per capita personal consumption expenditures (PCE) in The Old North State in 2021 was $43,959, which is lower than the national per capita PCE of $47,915.

Of course, the more years of experience you have and the higher your education level, the more you will earn.

What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in North Carolina?

A bachelor’s degree from any of the psychology schools in North Carolina can serve as a useful gateway to a wide variety of career opportunities in various fields. But if you want to obtain a license to practice as a psychologist, you will need more than a four-year undergraduate degree in psychology.

Educational Requirement

If you are wondering how to get a psychology degree in North Carolina, all you have to do is study for a bachelor’s degree in psychology and, further up, earn a doctoral degree in psychology.

A master’s degree in psychology is optional. Some psychologists opt not to get into a stand-alone master’s degree program, instead earning a master’s degree as part of their doctoral training program. In North Carolina, you can become a licensed psychological associate if you have a master’s degree in psychology. To qualify for this licensure, your master’s program has to include at least 45 semester credit hours and 500 hours of supervised experience.

As for the doctoral degree, you may pursue a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program, depending on the program offering. But generally, Ph.D. programs have a stronger research component compared to PsyD programs.

To be granted a license in North Carolina, your doctoral degree program should be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). Moreover, while there are many different specialization areas at the doctoral level, only graduates of counseling psychology, school psychology, combined professional-scientific psychology, and clinical psychology degree programs are eligible to become licensed psychologists in the state.

Psychology degree requirements in North Carolina also include supervised professional experience. You can complete up to 1,500 hours of supervised professional experience during your doctoral internship.

Psychology Licensing Exams and Provisional License

After earning your doctoral degree from one of the accredited psychology schools in North Carolina, you can apply to become a psychological associate with the North Carolina Psychology Board. The Board will review your application and, if you have complied with all the requirements, give you the go signal to take the licensing exams. The first exam is the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) with the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). The EPPP assesses a candidate’s broad knowledge of psychology—you will need to score at least 500 to pass it.

The second exam is the North Carolina State Examination, which assesses a candidate’s knowledge of national and state psychology laws and ethics. You need to score at least 78% to pass this exam.

After your scores are released to the Board, and assuming you passed it, you will be granted a provisional license.

Supervised Experience

To earn a permanent psychology licensure and certification in North Carolina, you will need to complete 3,000 total hours of supervised experience in the practice. Since many doctoral programs already require one full year or up to 1,500 hours of supervised experience during an internship, you will only need at least 1,500 hours more post-doctoral. At least 25% of these hours should also be directly related to working with patients. This includes administering psychological assessments and conducting therapy. While you are completing these hours, you also need to meet with a licensed psychologist for at least two hours of supervision each week.

Permanent License, License Renewal, and Continuing Education

After completing the required number of supervised hours, you can apply to convert your provisional license or psychological associate license to a permanent one. The Board will notify you once your permanent license has been granted.

Your psychology license needs to be renewed every two years. To be eligible for this renewal, you have to complete at least 18 hours of continuing education (CE) within that two-year period. At least half of these continuing education hours must be earned through online courses and formally organized events. Three hours need to involve education in legal and ethical issues.

To help you find eligible CE programs and understand the CE requirements, the Board has provided a list of verified resources.

How do psychology students in North Carolina benefit from research opportunities?

Research is a critical component of psychology education, allowing students to gain practical experience and contribute to the field's advancement. Many psychology programs in North Carolina offer students the chance to engage in diverse research projects, providing key benefits:

• Hands-on Experience: Students can participate in research labs focused on topics like cognitive psychology, clinical assessments, and developmental psychology, gaining practical skills that complement their academic knowledge.
• Mentorship from Experts: By collaborating with faculty members, students receive guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals, helping them hone their research techniques and expand their understanding of psychological theories.
• Publication and Presentation Opportunities: Many students have the chance to publish their research in academic journals or present findings at conferences, enhancing their resumes and career prospects.
• Networking with Professionals: Engaging in research projects connects students with experts in the field, opening doors to future job opportunities or advanced studies.
• Preparation for Graduate Programs: Research experience is often a prerequisite for graduate programs, giving students a competitive edge when applying to Ph.D. or PsyD programs.

Psychology Program Length in North Carolina

Becoming a licensed psychologist in North Carolina can take a total of about 10 years or longer if you study part-time. These include four years of bachelor’s degree and about six years of graduate studies in accredited psychology schools in North Carolina. These graduate studies consist of two years of master’s degree and four to seven years of doctoral degree. Earning a Ph.D. or PsyD may also take less time if you get one with a master’s degree combined. Then there’s the two years of supervised experience in the practice.

As an aspiring psychologist, you can tailor your educational path according to the psychology specialties and concentrations in North Carolina. Go for programs that align with your career goals and interests, whether it’s forensics psychology, clinical psychology, developmental psychology, child psychology, counseling psychology, or health psychology, among many others.

Tuition and Costs of Attending Psychology Schools in North Carolina

Tuition and costs for psychology schools in North Carolina vary. These depend on the degree level, the student’s residency status, and whether the school is a public or private institution. There is also a difference in costs between on-campus and online psychology programs in North Carolina.

To give you an idea, at Appalachian State University, which is a public university, tuition and fees for undergraduate students for the 2023-2024 academic year total $8,081 (in-state residents) and $25,077 (out-of-state residents). Meanwhile, tuition and fees for graduate students are $5,740 (in-state) and $16,247 (out-of-state). These computations do not include books and supplies, miscellaneous fees, food and housing, and transportation costs. Charges may still vary with the program of study.

Meanwhile, at Duke University, which is a private university, undergraduate tuition and fees are $63,450, which could bring the total estimated cost of attendance to almost $90,000.

Students, however, can take advantage of psychology scholarships and grants in North Carolina universities to lessen the total cost of attendance.

What to Look For in a Psychology Program in North Carolina

You will find many psychology schools in North Carolina, so it is important that you have a checklist of the things you need to look for in a school in order to make an informed decision. Here are the elements to look for in a psychology school or program:

Accreditation

Make sure the school’s psychology program is accredited by a reputable organization, such as the American Psychological Association (APA). This accreditation ensures that the school meets high standards of education and that the program adheres to the rigorous criteria set forth by the accrediting body.

Program Curriculum

Look for psychology schools in North Carolina with a strong curriculum that would help you work out the different goals of psychology. The curriculum should cover a variety of courses and topics in psychology, including research methods and different areas of psychology like clinical, social, cognitive, and developmental psychology, among many others.

Resources and Special Programs

Look for a school that offers psychology student resources and organizations in North Carolina that would help make your academic life easier. These resources include libraries, laboratories, and counseling services. You can also check out clubs and student organizations that align with your specific interests. Look into special programs and opportunities, too. These include internships, research opportunities, and study-abroad programs.

Cost

Consider the tuition, fees, and living expenses before applying to a school’s psychology program. Is the school affordable for you without going into debt? If it isn’t, does it have a financial aid and scholarship program that you’d qualify for?

Psychology Schools in North Carolina Offering the Best Psychology Programs

Our team of researchers has come up with a list of the five best psychology schools in North Carolina. These schools offer undergraduate or graduate psychology degree programs or both. We made sure these schools offer accredited programs, are recognized for academic excellence, and provide students with a solid foundation for a successful career as psychologists.

1. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University‘s Department of Psychology offers an extensive range of psychology programs:

Bachelor of Science:

• Psychology Business Concentration
• Psychology Education Studies Concentration
• Psychology Health Studies Concentration
• Psychology Human Services Concentration
• Psychology Natural Science Concentration
• Psychology Social Science Concentration
• Psychology Sustainability Concentration

Bachelor of Arts:

• Psychology

PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Master of Arts in Psychology

• Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Human Resource Management (IOHRM)
• Psychology Clinical Psychology Concentration
• Psychology Psychological Science Concentration

Dual Degree Programs

• School Psychology (MA) and Specialist Degree

The school’s psychology department offers students numerous opportunities to engage in research. It boasts various research laboratories to enhance academic learning and effectively develop relevant skills, including an anxiety research lab, an adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) lab, an applicant decision-making lab, a women’s health lab, a school mental health lab, personality and romantic relationships lab, perception action lab, and video game, media, and bullying lab.

• Location: Boone, NC
• Type: Public
• Programs: Bachelor’s, PsyD, Master’s, Dual Degree
• Accreditation: APA
• Tuition and Fees: Undergraduate: $8,081 (in-state residents) | $25,077 (out-of-state residents). Graduate: $5,740 (in-state residents) | $16,247 (out-of-state residents)

2. Duke University

Duke University is a private research university. What makes the university unique among psychology schools in North Carolina is that it gives students the ability to create their own academic paths by combining majors, minors, and certificates. This is why Duke is considered a great school for psychology majors.

Duke also has a Program II individualized degree program, wherein students can design their major or their own curriculum tailored to their individual academic needs.

• Location: Durham, NC
• Type: Private
• Programs: BA/BS, Graduate
• Accreditation: APA
• Tuition and Fees: $63,450 (excluding other costs)

3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill‘s Department of Psychology and Neuroscience offers the following psychology programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
• Master of Arts in Psychology
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

BA and BS Psychology programs prepare students for entry into graduate programs in psychology and several related areas. Psychology undergraduates may seek and find employment in a wide range of occupations or continue their education and training in graduate school. A major in psychology may prove valuable to those who plan to pursue other professional careers such as law, medicine, business, or education, as well as to those who seek a cultural background in the behavioral sciences.

• Location: Chapel Hill, NC
• Type: Public
• Programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
• Accreditation: APA
• Tuition & Fees: Undergraduate: $292.46 per credit hour (NC residents) | $1,556.67 per credit hour (Non-NC residents) Graduate: $586.23 per credit hour (NC residents) | $1,602 (non-residents)

4. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University is a public land-grant research university that offers the following psychology programs:

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

BA students can work alongside faculty to hone their research skills and acquire new knowledge. They can explore a wide range of topics that are related to psychology and related disciplines while they apply what they learned from the classroom. That’s because an integral part of a student’s educational experience is experiential learning.

• Location: Raleigh, NC
• Type: Public
• Programs: BA, Master’s, PhD
• Accreditation: APA
• Tuition and Fees: Undergraduate: $379.38 per credit hour (residents) | $1,332.38 per credit hour (non-residents) Graduate: $668.95 per credit hour (residents) | $1,778.62 per credit hour (non-residents)

5. Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University is a private research university that offers a BA in Psychology, with courses like Psychopharmacology, Learning Theory and Research, Parent-Child Relationships, Clinical Neuroscience, and Perception. A major in psychology provides students with a strong foundation of theory and research across various psychology areas. It also equips students with the methodological, laboratory, and statistical skills they need to understand and contribute to psychological research.

The university has directed study and honors program opportunities that allow students to work directly with faculty members on research.

WFU boasts more than 250 student organizations that you can explore to discover your passion, an 11:1 student-to-faculty, and an academic study-abroad experience for more than 60% of its students.

The Department of Psychology also offers an MA in Psychology.

• Location: Winston-Salem, NC
• Type: Private
• Programs: BA, MA
• Accreditation: APA
• Tuition and Fees: $64,758

How does North Carolina support aspiring marriage and family therapists?

Aspiring marriage and family therapists (MFTs) in North Carolina can leverage a variety of educational programs and state-specific resources tailored to their career progression. MFTs play a crucial role in improving mental health by providing specialized counseling for couples, families, and individuals dealing with relational challenges.

To practice as a licensed MFT, candidates must meet the MFT licensing requirements in North Carolina. This includes obtaining a relevant master’s or doctoral degree, completing a requisite amount of supervised clinical experience, and passing the national and state licensing exams. Once licensed, therapists can pursue rewarding roles in private practice, community mental health centers, and family services agencies.

Educational institutions offering postgraduate degrees in marriage and family therapy in North Carolina often incorporate comprehensive hands-on training opportunities, helping students to develop practical skills aligned with state mandates. Moreover, networking with local professional organizations provides valuable mentorship and insights into the field. If you are looking to deepen your expertise or diversify your practice, targeted certifications, workshops, and continuing education programs are also widely available within the state.

By combining a strong academic foundation with state-approved licensure pathways, North Carolina ensures a supportive framework for aspiring MFTs to establish a fulfilling career. For more details on licensing, certifications, and career pathways, refer to the outlined requirements linked above.

What are the career prospects for psychology graduates in North Carolina?

Psychology graduates in North Carolina have access to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities that cater to various interests within the field. Whether you are passionate about clinical work, organizational improvement, education, or research, there is a pathway suited for you. Below are key insights into career prospects for psychology graduates in the state:

Diverse Career Paths in Psychology

North Carolina offers roles such as clinical psychologist, school psychologist, industrial-organizational psychologist, forensic psychologist, and health psychologist. Each of these specialties provides unique opportunities to impact communities, organizations, and individuals positively.

For instance, clinical psychologists often work in hospitals or private practices, helping individuals manage mental health challenges. On the other hand, industrial-organizational psychologists may assist companies in improving employee satisfaction and productivity, reflecting the versatile nature of a psychology degree.

Strong Job Growth

The demand for psychologists in North Carolina is growing faster than average. According to projections, employment for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists will increase by 10% from 2020 to 2030. This growth aligns with the rising awareness of mental health issues and the state's ongoing initiatives to expand access to care.

Competitive Salaries in a Cost-Effective State

While psychology salaries in North Carolina may be slightly lower than the national average, they remain substantial when adjusted for the state’s lower cost of living. Clinical and counseling psychologists, for example, earn an average of $93,010 annually. This makes North Carolina an attractive place to build a career without the financial strain associated with more expensive states.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Psychology graduates in North Carolina can further their careers by pursuing advanced degrees, specializing in high-demand areas like neuropsychology or child psychology, or contributing to research initiatives. Programs that allow students to engage in research or internships provide a significant advantage in securing competitive positions post-graduation.

Considerations for Prospective Students

When deciding on a psychology program, it's essential to choose one that aligns with your career goals. To determine whether pursuing a degree in psychology is the right decision for you, explore our detailed guide on is a psychology degree worth it. This resource outlines the benefits, challenges, and potential outcomes of a psychology career, helping you make an informed choice.

In summary, North Carolina is an excellent state for psychology graduates due to its diverse career opportunities, strong job market, and favorable cost of living. Whether you're planning to work in clinical settings, academic research, or organizational consulting, the state provides a supportive environment for professional growth.

What additional training or certifications can enhance my psychology career in North Carolina?

While completing a psychology degree provides a strong foundation for a variety of careers in North Carolina, there are opportunities to enhance your qualifications through additional training, certifications, or specializations. These credentials can help psychology graduates stand out in the competitive job market, especially for roles in clinical practice, counseling, or social services.

Here are some additional certifications and training options that can help psychology graduates advance their careers:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Certification: For those interested in pursuing a career in counseling, obtaining an LPC in North Carolina is a common next step. The certification requires a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field, along with supervised clinical hours and passing a national exam.
• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC): North Carolina has a significant demand for professionals trained in addiction counseling. A CADC certification demonstrates expertise in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse.
• School Counselor Certification: For psychology graduates who want to work in schools, the school counselor certification in North Carolina can open doors to counseling positions in K-12 educational settings.
• Forensic Psychology Training: For those interested in working with the criminal justice system, further training in forensic psychology can be a valuable addition. Forensic psychologists work in legal settings, assessing criminal behavior, providing expert testimony, or counseling individuals involved in legal proceedings.
• Behavior Analysis Certification: Graduates interested in working with individuals who have developmental or behavioral disorders might consider pursuing a certification in behavior analysis. Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) work with individuals on the autism spectrum or those with learning disabilities to develop tailored behavioral intervention plans.

Additionally, for those interested in broader roles within human services, exploring human services major careers can offer a range of opportunities to work in mental health, social services, and advocacy positions. This is especially relevant for psychology graduates who may want to diversify their skills and make an impact in the community.

Find the Ideal Psychology School and Program in North Carolina

A good undergraduate psychology program will give you an excellent foundation that will help define your career as a future psychologist. As such, narrow down your choices of psychology schools in North Carolina to include only those that offer programs that align with your specific career objectives and the specific path you wish to take. Remember that you still have a long road ahead and your academic journey will be challenging and rigorous.

You may also want to consider a clinical psychology online or on-campus program to help with the state’s ongoing need for mental health professionals and to help promote mental health and well-being.

Should I pursue BCBA certification in North Carolina?

For psychology professionals interested in broadening their clinical scope, pursuing BCBA certification can open additional avenues in behavioral analysis and intervention. Acquiring Board Certified Behavior Analyst credentials equips you with specialized skills in behavior modification techniques and applied behavior analysis, which are essential when treating clients with developmental and behavioral challenges. Explore how to become a BCBA in North Carolina to further enhance your practice and meet the growing demand for behavior analysis expertise in the state.

Can I specialize in criminal psychology in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, criminal psychology is an emerging specialization that combines psychological expertise with an understanding of the criminal justice system. Aspiring criminal psychologists can explore targeted training programs and seek out internships that provide exposure to forensic and law enforcement environments. Candidates are encouraged to gain interdisciplinary experience, including coursework in legal frameworks, behavioral assessment, and forensic methodologies. For a comprehensive guide on the educational path, key skill sets, and career trajectories required in this field, refer to our detailed resource on how to become a criminal psychologist in North Carolina. This focused approach helps build the competency needed to navigate complex case analyses and contributes to advancements in criminal justice practices.

What are the specific licensure requirements for school psychologists in North Carolina?

Aspiring school psychologists must complete an advanced degree in school psychology from an accredited institution that emphasizes coursework in child development, behavioral assessment, and intervention strategies in educational environments. In addition to specialized academic training, candidates are required to accumulate supervised professional experience within school settings to build practical expertise. Passing targeted certification examinations and engaging in ongoing professional development are also essential to ensure compliance with state standards. For a comprehensive breakdown of these criteria and further guidance on navigating the certification process, please review school psychologist requirements in North Carolina.

Are online PsyD programs a viable option in North Carolina?

Online PsyD programs offer a flexible and cost-effective pathway for aspiring psychologists, while still meeting rigorous academic and licensure standards. Prospective students should verify that these programs are accredited, ensure the curriculum addresses essential components such as research methodology and supervised clinical experience, and assess the integration of hands-on practicum elements. Exploring options like the cheapest PsyD programs can provide insights into balancing affordability with academic quality, helping candidates align their educational choices with career objectives and state licensing requirements.

What are the challenges in meeting North Carolina psychology license requirements?

Candidates navigating the licensure process in North Carolina must address a variety of administrative and professional challenges. Accurate documentation of supervised experience, regular updates in regulatory standards, and thorough record keeping for continuing education are critical to ensuring compliance during both initial licensure and subsequent renewals. Understanding these nuances early on can help minimize setbacks and streamline the transition from academic preparation to professional practice. For detailed guidelines and practical insights, please review North Carolina psychology license requirements.

What is the fastest way to become a counselor in North Carolina?

Accelerated career pathways have emerged to help qualified graduates transition into counseling roles more efficiently. Some institutions now offer intensive post-baccalaureate or certificate programs that blend essential coursework with supervised practice to expedite the licensure process. These programs focus on consolidating core counseling competencies, reducing redundancy in training, and providing quicker access to field experiences. For professionals considering a streamlined route to entry, exploring resources that detail expedited curricula and state-approved alternatives is recommended. For more insights on alternative time-saving approaches, please review the fastest way to become a counselor in North Carolina.

How does industrial-organizational psychology shape career opportunities in North Carolina?

Industrial-organizational psychology integrates behavioral science principles with business practices to optimize workforce performance. In North Carolina, specialists in this field play pivotal roles in talent management, organizational development, and employee training, driving measurable improvements in workplace efficiency and culture. By leveraging data-driven methodologies and strategic planning, these professionals help organizations navigate change and foster sustainable growth. For further exploration of career paths and advanced training strategies, review what can you do with masters in industrial organizational psychology.

How can I pursue a career in substance abuse counseling in North Carolina?

Substance abuse counseling is a critical component of North Carolina’s mental health services, offering professionals the opportunity to support individuals facing addiction and recovery challenges. To enter this field, candidates typically begin with an education in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by specialized coursework in substance abuse treatment. Many programs integrate practical training through internships or supervised work experiences in rehabilitation centers or community health settings. Obtaining state-specific certification or licensure is also essential, with requirements that may include a combination of degree credentials, clinical hours, and passage of relevant examinations. For detailed, updated guidelines and steps tailored to North Carolina’s regulations, please refer to How to become a substance abuse counselor in North Carolina?.

What qualifications do I need for a career in forensic science in North Carolina?

To pursue a career in forensic science in North Carolina, candidates must select academic paths that offer rigorous training in scientific investigation, legal principles, and forensic methodologies. Programs with laboratory components, evidence analysis, and applied research opportunities provide essential practical exposure. It is crucial to evaluate institutions and curricula that deliver degrees needed to work in forensic science in North Carolina as part of their specialized coursework. Successful completion of internships or fieldwork further strengthens one’s expertise in handling complex forensic challenges within legal settings.

How can I become a mental health counselor in North Carolina?

Aspiring mental health counselors in North Carolina must meet state-specific educational and supervised experience requirements. Typically, candidates start by completing a degree in mental health counseling or a closely related field from an accredited institution, followed by accumulating the necessary clinical hours through internships or practicums. After meeting the academic and fieldwork criteria, candidates must pass state-recognized examinations and obtain licensure according to North Carolina regulations. For detailed, step-by-step guidelines, please refer to how to become a mental health counselor in North Carolina.

Key Insights

• High Prevalence of Mental Health Issues: As of early 2023, 24.9% of adults in North Carolina reported symptoms of depression and/or anxiety, underscoring the critical need for mental health services.
• Barriers to Mental Health Services: In May 2022, 18.3% of adults with symptoms of depression and anxiety did not receive necessary counseling or therapy, highlighting barriers to mental health care access.
• Shortage of Mental Health Professionals: North Carolina faces a significant shortage of psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists, exacerbating the mental health care gap.
• Growing Demand for Psychologists: Employment for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in North Carolina is projected to grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030, indicating a strong job market for future psychologists.
• Competitive Salaries: Psychologists in North Carolina earn substantial wages, with clinical and counseling psychologists earning an average of $93,010 annually. Despite being lower than the national average, this is balanced by the lower cost of living in the state.
• Comprehensive Educational Pathways: North Carolina offers a variety of accredited psychology programs from bachelor’s to doctoral levels, providing extensive opportunities for aspiring psychologists to obtain the necessary education and training.
• Accredited Programs: Accreditation by reputable organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) ensures that psychology programs in North Carolina meet high educational standards.

FAQ

What is the prevalence of mental health issues in North Carolina?

In early 2023, 24.9% of adults in North Carolina reported symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. This high prevalence underscores the critical need for mental health services in the state.

What barriers exist to accessing mental health services in North Carolina?

In May 2022, 18.3% of adults with symptoms of depression and anxiety did not receive the counseling or therapy they needed, indicating significant barriers to accessing mental health care, including a shortage of mental health professionals.

What is the job outlook for psychologists in North Carolina?

The employment rate for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in North Carolina is projected to grow by 10% from 2020 to 2030. This indicates a strong job market for psychologists in the state.

What are the average salaries for psychologists in North Carolina?

The mean annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists in North Carolina is $93,010. Industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average of $73,260, school psychologists earn $64,060, and other types of psychologists earn $93,970 annually.

What steps are required to become a licensed psychologist in North Carolina?

To become a licensed psychologist in North Carolina, one must earn a bachelor’s degree, complete a doctoral degree from an accredited program, pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the North Carolina State Examination, and complete 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience.

How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in North Carolina?

It typically takes about 10 years to become a licensed psychologist in North Carolina, including four years for a bachelor’s degree and about six years for graduate studies and supervised professional experience.

What are the costs associated with attending psychology schools in North Carolina?

Tuition costs vary significantly. For instance, at Appalachian State University, undergraduate tuition and fees are $8,081 for in-state residents and $25,077 for out-of-state residents. Graduate tuition is $5,740 for in-state residents and $16,247 for out-of-state residents. Private institutions like Duke University charge $63,450 in tuition and fees.

What should I look for in a psychology program in North Carolina?

When choosing a psychology program in North Carolina, consider accreditation, program curriculum, available resources and special programs, and overall costs, including tuition and living expenses. Accreditation by organizations like the APA ensures that the program meets high educational standards.

What are the top psychology schools in North Carolina?

Some of the top psychology schools in North Carolina include Appalachian State University, Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, and Wake Forest University. These schools offer accredited programs and are recognized for academic excellence.

How can I finance my psychology education in North Carolina?

Students can take advantage of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs offered by universities and other organizations to help offset the cost of their psychology education in North Carolina.

References:

• KFF (The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation). (2023). Mental Health in North Carolina. KFF.
• United States Census Bureau. (2022). Quick Facts | North Carolina. U.S. Census.
• O*NET OnLine. (2022). North Carolina Employment Trends | 19-3033.00 Clinical and Counseling Psychologists. O*NET.
• O*NET OnLine. (2022). North Carolina Employment Trends | 19-3032.00 Industrial-Organizational Psychologists. O*NET.
• O*NET OnLine. (2022). North Carolina Employment Trends | 19-3039.00 Psychologists, All Other. O*NET.
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: North Carolina. BLS.
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 19-3032 Industrial-Organizational Psychologists. BLS.
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 19-3033 Clinical and Counseling Psychologists. BLS.
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 19-3034 School Psychologists. BLS.
• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022 | 19-3039 Psychologists, All Other. BLS.