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Getting Your License in Psychology |
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Wednesday, 27 June 2007 |
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If you are pursuing one of the psychology degree programs, there is a good chance that getting your license is an ever-present thought on your mind. Depending on which of the psychology degree programs and career paths you have chosen will make a difference in how and when you will be able to get your license. If you want to be a practicing psychologist, you are required in all states to obtain a license. This usually happens after you have finished your psychology degree programs, but the requirements to get a license vary from state to state. In general, you will need to pass a state certification examination.
You will also need to have finished psychology degree programs to earn either your doctorate or master’s degree, and have at least one year of work in the field before you will be granted your license. If pursuing psychology degree programs to work in a clinic, as a counselor, or in the educational field you will have to have finished some additional studies in order to get your license. To be approved for you license you must have a doctorate in psychology, one to two years of clinical training, and an additional one to two years of supervised work experience.If you wish to get your license to work as a school psychologist, you will need a minimum of a master’s degree in psychology. Many school psychologists also have a post-master’s degree in psychology as an Education Specialist as well. Before you choose the psychology degree programs that are right for you, you need to check out the requirements for getting your license ahead of time. The easiest way to find out what the requirements for getting your license are is to contact the local psychology licensing board, which can give you information on your state laws regarding the requirements and exams needed in order to get your license. The Associate of State and Provincial Psychology Boards can also offer you more information on what you will need to earn your license. Your license should always be foremost on your mind when considering degree programs, internships, volunteer work, etc. That way you will be able to make your requirements in the most efficient way possible, and be able to join the career field with limited set backs. It will also help prevent you from wasting time on unrelated work that does not affect your future. |
