Top Online Psychology Schools
- Kaplan University Online Click for Recommended Degree Program
- University of Phoenix Click for Recommended Degree Program
- AIU Online Click for Recommended Degree Program
How to Become a Psychologist
Are you fascinated with human behavior and the workings of the human mind? Would you like to help people of all ages overcome their problems and learn to live with mental disorders? If so, becoming a psychologist can give you the career of your dreams. In recent years, the need for psychologists has grown dramatically and is predicted to continue growing over coming years. Psychologists work in a variety of settings including mental hospitals, private practices, schools, industries, medical facilities, and many more. They help people with everything from stress management and relationship issues to severe mental disorders and coping with traumatic events. By going back to college and getting your career training in how to become a psychologist, you are taking your place among these dedicated professionals and are making a commitment to helping others.
Getting your education
As with most great careers, the first step in how to become a psychologist is to get the proper educational training. Although it is preferable to start with a minimum of a master’s degree in a related field, it is possible to enter doctoral-level training with a bachelor’s degree if you have sufficient work and research experience. Regardless of which method you choose, it is a good idea to find a professional mentor or a professor who will allow you to assist with research activities during your undergraduate training. Getting your degree can take between 4-7 years, depending on whether you choose a bachelor’s or a master’s program. It is important to get the best grades possible during this part of your education as acceptance into a doctoral program generally requires a minimum GPA of 3.5. The higher your GPA, the better your chances of getting accepted into a doctoral program.
The next step in how to become a psychologist is to enter either a Psy.D. or Ph.D. program. The Ph.D. is generally preferrable if you plan to enter research while the Psy.D. is more focused on clinical practice. These programs generally take around 5 years to complete and may be completed through some of the top online universities. While not for everyone, distance education programs can be great for some people because they allow for more flexibility to meet the other demands of life.
Additional steps in how to become a psychologist
Once you have completed all of your educational requirements, you will be required to pass a state licensing exam before you can become a practicing psychologist. Depending on your state, there may also be other requirements including an internship period or other testing. After you have received your license, you are ready to start practicing your trade either in your own private practice or in another facility.
Those who complete the steps of how to become a psychologist enjoy a great, rewarding career in a comfortable working environment. This job comes with a very nice salary as well. The average salary for a psychologist is around $70,000 but can easily top $110,000 per year with experience. If you have been looking for a career that will give you the life of your dreams, psychology is waiting for you.
