What is needed?

[WannabeOrtho]

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Hello,

I am wonder what exactly you need to become a psychologist? A timeline maybe of exactly every requirement from getting a undergrad degree to graduate school please?


Thank You

 

[Psyduck]

basically, to become a licensed psychologist you need a PhD or PsyD in clinical or counseling psychology, which involves 4-5 years of schooling and an internship. for more detailed info you can look at the APA website : http://www.apa.org/students/student1.html

 

[50960]

That is 4-5 years of school at a graduate level, 1-2 years in internship or residency, a national exam with a pass rate of 30%, and usually another exam that is state specific. Then you get a license if all goes well.

 

[WannabeOrtho]

Thank you! One more question though.

I am curious if people get their bachelors then can get their doctors, or if they have to get their bachelors, then masters, then doctors?

 

[psy86]

Just bachelor's and then doctorate is fine; no master's needed.

 

[clearcolor]

I would advise against a masters. If you need more experience post undergrad, work in a research setting and volunteer.

 

[Psyduck]

can i ask, why do you advise against a masters? i'm not planning on doing one just b/c i'd rather only take a year before starting my PhD and i think most masters programs are 2. but is it really a disadvantage? i thought they might have an edge

 

[ElektraComplex]

can i ask, why do you advise against a masters? i'm not planning on doing one just b/c i'd rather only take a year before starting my PhD and i think most masters programs are 2. but is it really a disadvantage? i thought they might have an edge

In my opinion, Masters programs can give one an edge, especially someone without a solid background in psychology, or with other less than stellar credentials. However, one has to be careful which Masters program they choose. Some (namely those that don't involve a research thesis) can be a waste of time in the clinical psychology realm. Again, this is my opinion.