A degree in psychology can lead to a number of careers. To work as a clinical or counseling psychologist, one must have a doctoral degree. Psychologists can earn either a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D.) or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), with the Ph.D. being a research-based program and the Psy.D. a practical and exam-based program. Doctoral programs typically include five to seven years of study as well as a one-year internship.

To work as a school psychologist, one must have a specialized degree in educational psychology (Ed.S.), which requires at least three years of graduate study in addition to a year-long internship.

Industrial-organizational psychologists and psychological assistants must have a master’s degree in psychology. Degree programs typically last at least two years and include practical experience and a thesis.

To become licensed, one must graduate from an accredited program. The American Psychological Association (APA) and National Association of School Psychologists are both accrediting boards for psychology programs.

All 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and 10 Canadian provinces regulate the practice of psychology through licensure. Licensing requirements vary, but most states require clinical psychologists to have a doctoral degree from an accredited program, an internship, one or two years of professional experience, and a passing score on an examination. Most states use the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

The National Association of School Psychologists maintains a comprehensive list of state requirements for psychologists.

In addition to initial licensure requirements, many states have continuing education requirements to keep one’s license current.

Undergraduate:
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA)
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BS)

Bachelor programs in psychology are generally open to students fresh out of high school, earners of a GED and holder of associate level degrees. Most students whose goals include a career as a professional psychologist or psychology researcher will require a more advanced education - most typically a doctorate. In other words, a bachelor degree can serve as merely a launching pad toward a full psychology education. However, a B.S. or B.A. degree in Psychology can be used as an integral component in a variety of fields not necessarily directly related to psychology itself.

Graduate:
- Master of Arts in Psychology (MA)
- Master of Science in Psychology (MS)

Earning a master's degree in psychology usually requires at least two years of full-time study beyond the undergraduate level. The coursework is specified to an area or areas of concentration and is supported by more general studies in the sciences (i.e. statistics, math, biology & social science). Most programs also include real-world clinical work to reinforce coursework and help prepare the student for their thesis and later work in the industry. Master's degree holders may work in the field as psychological assistants.

Concentrations include:
Clinical Psychology
Clinical Psychology/Marriage & Family Therapy
Counseling Psychology
Counseling Psychology/Marriage & Family Therapy
Forensic Psychology
Guidance Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapy
Mental Health Counseling
Professional Counseling
School Psychology
Sports-Exercise Psychology

- Education Specialist (Ed.S.)

Ideal for psychology professionals or teachers who want to enhance their careers or Masters degree holders who want to take their education further without committing to a complete Doctorate program.
Some Ed.S. degrees can be earned via distance education.

Concentrations include:
School Counseling

- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

A general prerequisite of a Masters in Education is likely required for any Doctorate of Education program. Ed.D. coursework is primarily based in research and the application of acquired knowledge in professional practice. Holders of Ed.D. degrees typically work in educational leadership roles such as teacher educators, school administrators & superintendents.

Concentrations include:
Counseling Psychology
Organizational Leadership
Pastoral Community Counseling

- Doctor of Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.)

Psy.D. professional programs are typically less competitive than Ph.D. programs in that they place more emphasis on clinical practice than they do on research training.

Concentrations include:
Clinical Psychology
School Psychology

- Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Ph.D. holders generally have the most occupational options in the field of psychology. They can go into many areas including clinical psychology, research, teaching and counseling positions in a variety of institutions. Ph.D. programs are among the most competitive in psychology education and require at least a master's degree in psychology.

Post-Graduate Studies:

Post graduate certificates are typically undertaken by Doctorate holders who want to expand their current knowledge base or who want to venture into more specialized areas.

Specializations include:
Health
Academic
Clinical
Organized Psychology
Substance Abuse Counseling
Forensic Counseling
Forensic Psychology
Marriage & Family Therapy
Postdoctoral Respecialization