There are many steps to becoming a licensed clinical psychologist. First, you must earn your high school diploma and enroll in a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited college or university. If you’re not ready for a four-year program, you might want to consider an associate’s degree.

An associate’s degree allows you to complete your basic undergraduate-level academic courses, such as English, math, and public speaking. Once you’re ready to tackle a four-year program, you’ll have completed most, if not all, of your general education courses. You’ll now be able to focus solely on your major and complete just two years.

As an undergrad, you’ll likely major similar field. By earning a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of  Science I receive the necessary foundation for graduate study. Some allow focus on one particular such as clinical, forensic, sports, or specializations. By specializing in a subset be better able to determine what area interests you the most.

Once you have a bachelor’s degree under your belt, it’s time to start thinking about a master’s degree. A master’s degree is a type of graduate degree that provides students with a rigorous education in their chosen field. Psychology students have a few options to consider when it comes to earning a master’s degree:

Master of Science in Clinical Psychology:

An M.S. in Clinical Psychology is a two-year degree that focuses on the intellectual, emotional, and biological aspects of human behavior. Coursework includes current theories and practices associated with dysfunctional behavior as well as a practicum that provides clinical experience and research opportunities. Graduates are prepared to provide mental health variety of settings, including community mental managed care environments.

Master of Arts in Psychology:

A more arts-oriented strong and the behavioral sciences. This program is typically two, and practicum and/or internship. Courses include such topics as principles, theories of personality, cognitive, fundamentals of neuropsychology, and many other related subjects.

Master of Science in Mental Health Psychology:

An M.S. in Mental Health Psychology is similar to that of an M.S. in Clinical Psychology but a degree in mental health psychology is often considered a counseling psychology program. Coursework is very similar; however, one notable difference is that an M.S. in Mental Health Psychology typically prepares graduates to work at schools basically, while tending to more disturbed populations noted above, and comes in many forms.

However, knowing your field of interest, it’s time to arm yourself much information as possible about graduate programs before you apply.

Often takes depending on how much time you can dedicate to your studies. Online programs are becoming a popular choice for busy professionals who need maximum scheduling flexibility. If you’re a parent, a full-time employee, or just plain busy, distance learning may be an option worth considering.

Once enrolled in a program, you can expect to complete between 35-60 credit hours, depending on the school’s completion requirements. Also, as noted above, you’ll likely need to complete a practicum which is an essential component of any applied professional training.

A practicum allows you to network with other professionals in your field while gaining valuable, meaningful work experience.