2026 Where Can You Get Licensed with a Master's in Psychology?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can you do with a Master’s in Psychology? 

A master’s in psychology offers versatile career paths that extend beyond traditional counseling roles. Graduates can apply their knowledge of human behavior, research, and mental processes in a variety of professional settings—from healthcare and education to business and research. Whether you want to work directly with clients or in applied or academic environments, this degree provides the foundation for many rewarding opportunities.

Career paths you can pursue include:

• Licensed Counselor or Therapist: With proper licensure, you can work as a mental health counselor, marriage and family therapist, or substance abuse counselor.
• School or Educational Psychologist: Support students’ emotional, behavioral, and academic well-being in schools or educational organizations.
• Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Specialist: Apply psychological principles to improve workplace productivity, hiring practices, and employee satisfaction.
• Forensic or Correctional Psychologist: Use psychological insights within the criminal justice system to assess behavior, aid investigations, or support rehabilitation programs.
• Researcher or Data Analyst: Conduct studies and analyze behavioral data in universities, government agencies, or private research firms to inform policies and improve interventions.

Where can you work with a Master’s in Psychology?

With a master’s degree in psychology, you can work in a wide range of settings where understanding human behavior is essential. Here are some common workplaces and roles:

Mental Health and Clinical Settings

• Hospitals and mental health clinics
• Private therapy or counseling practices
• Rehabilitation centers
• Community mental health programs

Educational Institutions

• Schools (as school psychologists, guidance counselors, or academic advisors)
• Colleges and universities (as research or student support staff)
• Educational testing and assessment centers

Research and Academic Settings

• University psychology departments
• Government research agencies
• Private or nonprofit research organizations

Corporate and Organizational Environments

• Human resources departments
• Organizational development or training divisions
• Market research and consumer behavior analysis
• Employee wellness and performance programs

Public Service and Nonprofit Sectors

• Social service agencies
• Community outreach or advocacy programs
• Crisis intervention and support organizations

A master’s in psychology offers flexibility—allowing you to work in roles that focus on helping individuals, advancing research, or improving organizations and communities.

How much can you earn with a Master’s in Psychology?

Earning potential for professionals with a master’s degree in psychology varies depending on factors such as location, specialization, experience, and work setting. Generally, a master’s-level psychologist or mental health professional earns a comfortable income, with opportunities for growth as they gain experience or pursue licensure.

• Mental Health/Substance Abuse Counselors: The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $59,190 in May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 
• Clinical, Counseling, & School Psychologists: These roles often require more than just a master’s, depending on licensure rules, but the BLS reports a median annual wage of $95,830 for clinical and counseling psychologists and $86,930 for school psychologists.
• Industrial-Organizational Psychologists (I/O Psychologists): These roles tend to pay higher due to demand in business settings. The median annual wage for I/O psychologists is $109,840.
• Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists: In May 2024, the median annual wage was $63,780 for marriage and family therapists. 
• Master’s-level Psychologist (General / MA-level roles): According to Salary.com (August 2025 data), someone titled “Psychologist – M.A.” earns on average $95,323/year, with a typical range spanning from ~ $75,592 to ~$108,641.

In general, those who work in private practice, corporate consulting, or specialized clinical roles tend to earn higher salaries than those in public or nonprofit sectors. Additionally, obtaining state licensure or pursuing further education (such as a doctorate) can significantly increase earning potential.

What kinds of licenses are available at the master’s level in psychology?

At the master’s level, psychology professionals can pursue a variety of licenses depending on their area of specialization and the regulations of their state. These licenses recognize different roles within the mental health and psychological services fields, such as therapist, counselor, psychology technician, marriage and family therapist, or substance abuse counselor. Each title carries its own responsibilities, level of independence, and scope of practice.

Across the United States, some of the common master’s-level psychology licenses include:

• Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA)
• Licensed Psychological Practitioner (LPP)
• Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP)
• Master’s Limited License
• Psychological Assistant
• Psychological Examiner
• Psychological Technician
• Psychologist Associate – Supervised
• Psychologist – Master
• Registered Psychological Assistant
• School Psychologist

The range of responsibilities for these titles varies widely. In certain states, a master’s-level license allows professionals to work independently and provide therapy or assessments without supervision. In others, it may restrict practice to supervised or limited roles within clinical or educational settings. Because licensing requirements differ from state to state, it’s crucial for students to research and understand their local regulations before beginning graduate training in psychology. Doing so ensures they choose the right educational path and meet the qualifications for their intended career.

The image below shows the estimated number of licensed psychologists that held at least one American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) certification. ABPP is the primary organization in the U.S. for specialty board certification in psychology. There are currently 15 specialty boards and two subspecialty boards.

Which states offer master’s level licensing in psychology?

While psychology is often associated with doctoral-level training, several states across the U.S. offer licensure options for professionals who hold a master’s degree in the field. Each state is responsible for determining the education, training, and supervision requirements necessary to practice psychology, as well as any limitations tied to each licensing level. Because these standards vary, it’s essential for psychology graduates to understand both the opportunities and restrictions their state’s license entails.

Below is a list of states that currently allow some form of master’s-level licensure in psychology, along with the corresponding titles available in each:

• Alabama: Psychological Technician; School Psychologist
• Alaska: Licensed Psychological Associate; School Psychologist
• Arizona: School Psychologist
• Arkansas: Psychological Examiner
• California: Registered Psychological Associate; Licensed Educational Psychologist
• Colorado: Psychological Associate
• Connecticut: School Psychologist
• Delaware: School Psychologist
• District of Columbia: School Psychologist; Psychological Associate
• Florida: School Psychologist
• Georgia: Non-Renewable School Psychologist 
• Hawaii: Psychological Associate
• Idaho: School Psychologist
• Illinois: School Psychologist
• Indiana: School Psychologist
• Iowa: School Psychologist
• Kansas: School Psychologist; Psychological Associate
• Kentucky: Licensed Psychological Associate; School Psychologist
• Louisiana: School Psychologist (Standard Certificate Level B)
• Maine: Psychological Examiner
• Maryland: School Psychologist; Psychology Associate
• Massachusetts: School Psychologist
• Michigan: Master’s Limited Psychologist License; School Psychologist
• Minnesota: School Psychologist
• Montana: School Psychologist
• Nebraska: Psychological Assistant; School Psychologist
• Nevada: Psychological Assistant; School Psychologist
• New Hampshire: School Psychologist
• New Jersey: School Psychologist
• New Mexico: School Psychologist; Psychological Associate
• New York: School Psychologist 
• North Dakota: School Psychologist
• Ohio: School Psychologist
• Oklahoma: School Psychologist
• Oregon: Psychologist Associate – Supervised or Independent
• Pennsylvania: School Psychologist
• Rhode Island: School Psychologist
• South Carolina: School Psychologist I
• South Dakota: School Psychological Examiner Endorsement
• Tennessee: Psychological Assistant
• Texas: Licensed Specialist in School Psychology; Licensed Psychological Associate
• Utah: School Psychologist
• Vermont: Master-level Psychologist
• Virginia: School Psychologist
• Washington: School Psychologist
• West Virginia: Psychologist; School Psychologist
• Wyoming: School Psychologist

While many states still reserve independent psychological practice for only those with a doctoral degree, a growing number recognize the value of well-trained master’s-level professionals. For aspiring psychologists, this makes it vital to research the rules and expectations specific to their jurisdiction. In states that allow independent or limited practice at the master’s level, a doctoral degree may not be required to begin a rewarding career. However, in states where doctoral credentials remain the minimum standard for licensure, an on-campus or online masters in psychology may serve primarily as a stepping stone toward advanced study.

Interestingly, students pursuing this path sometimes compare cross-disciplinary programs like an MSD degree in special education, as both fields emphasize assessment, intervention, and support for individuals’ developmental or behavioral needs.

Based on the list, you can see that most states only grant licenses to master's level psychology graduates who specialize in school psychology. Licensing is usually reserved only for those with a doctorate degree. As such, you may want to know which industries pay school psychologists the highest salaries.

How long does it take to complete a Master’s in Psychology?

The time it takes to complete a master’s degree in psychology depends on the program type, course load, and whether you study full-time or part-time. On average, most master’s programs in psychology take about 2 to 3 years to finish when pursued full-time.

• Full-Time Students: Typically complete the program in 2 years, including coursework, practicum, and (in some cases) a thesis or capstone project.
• Part-Time Students: May take 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on how many courses are taken each term.
• Online or Accelerated Programs: Some schools offer an accelerated psychology masters program that can be finished in as little as 18 months, provided the student maintains a heavy course load.

The total duration may also depend on the program’s structure and concentration. For example:

• Research-focused programs often require a thesis, which can extend the timeline.
• Clinical or counseling psychology programs usually include supervised fieldwork or internships, adding to the time needed for completion.

Overall, students should plan for 2 to 3 years of study for a traditional master’s in psychology, with potential variations based on their pace, program type, and chosen specialization.

What are the admission requirements for a Master’s in Psychology?

Admission requirements vary by university and program, but below are the common components you’ll typically need to prepare:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution—often in psychology or a related field. Some programs may accept students from non-psychology backgrounds if they complete prerequisite coursework.
• Minimum GPA: Many programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA (frequently around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale). Some schools also examine your GPA in key psychology or research courses.
• Prerequisite Coursework: Typical prerequisites include introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, and courses in major subfields such as developmental, social, or abnormal psychology. If your undergraduate degree lacked these courses, some programs offer “bridging” or deficiency classes.
• Official Transcripts: You’ll need to submit full transcripts from all undergraduate (and any graduate) institutions attended, showing courses, grades, and degree completion.
• Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2 to 3 letters are required, ideally from professors, research supervisors, or employers who can speak to your academic ability, research potential, or professional qualities.
• Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement: This essay should outline your academic background, research or career interests, reasons for choosing that particular program, and how you see your professional trajectory.
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV): A summary of education, relevant work, research, internships, volunteer experience, and any publications or presentations.
• Standardized Tests (Optional or Required): Some programs require GRE general test scores; others have made them optional or no longer require them. In some cases, a subject GRE (e.g. psychology) may be requested.
• Research or Practical Experience: Prior involvement in research, internships, fieldwork, or relevant work in psychological settings is often viewed favorably, especially for research-based or competitive programs.
• Writing Sample: Some programs ask for a sample of academic writing (e.g. research paper or thesis excerpt) to assess your analytical and writing skills.
• Interview: A few programs conduct interviews (in person or via video) to assess your fit, communication skills, and motivations.

For those who plan to expand into leadership or administrative positions after earning their degree, comparing program types such as executive masters vs master's can help determine which track best aligns with long-term professional goals.

What courses are included in a Master’s in Psychology program?

A master’s in psychology curriculum blends theory, research, and practical training to prepare students for professional or academic paths. While exact courses vary by specialization and university, most programs share a mix of foundational and advanced classes that cover key areas of psychological science and practice.

The core courses that are common to most on-campus and online psychology masters programs are:

• Foundations of Psychology: Provides an overview of major theories, historical developments, and current trends in psychological science.
• Research Methods in Psychology: Covers experimental design, qualitative and quantitative methods, and the process of conducting psychological research.
• Statistics for Behavioral Sciences: Teaches data analysis techniques used in psychological studies, including regression, ANOVA, and statistical software.
• Ethics and Professional Issues: Focuses on ethical principles, confidentiality, and professional conduct required in psychological practice.
• Psychological Assessment: Introduces standardized testing, personality assessment, and interpretation of cognitive and behavioral measures.
• Human Development: Explores how people change and grow from infancy through adulthood, including cognitive, emotional, and social development.
• Cognitive Psychology: Examines how people perceive, remember, think, and solve problems.
• Social Psychology: Studies how social interactions, culture, and group dynamics influence thoughts and behaviors.
• Biopsychology or Neuropsychology: Looks at the biological bases of behavior, including brain function, hormones, and neural systems.

How much do Master’s in Psychology programs typically cost in the U.S.?

The cost of a master’s in psychology in the U.S. depends heavily on whether the school is public or private, whether you're a resident (in-state) or non-resident (out-of-state), the program format (online versus on-campus), and additional fees and living expenses. Below are estimates and examples to help get a clearer picture.

• Public university, in-state: About $8,000 to $20,000 per year for tuition.
• Public university, out-of-state: About $15,000 to $30,000+ per year for tuition.
• Private university: About $20,000 to $50,000+ per year in tuition. Higher for elite or highly specialized programs.

Additional Costs to Factor In:

• Fees (technology, student services, lab or practicum supervision fees) can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars/year.
• Living expenses (housing, food, transportation) vary significantly by location (urban vs rural) and are usually a major part of the total cost.

The image below shows how much licensed psychologists in the U.S. earn on average. This highlights how obtaining your doctorate degree in psychology can lead you to the highest paying psychology jobs and significantly bump up your earning capacity, making it a good investment. ROI can be expected to come more quickly with licensure. 

If cost is a concern, exploring best affordable HBCU programs that offer master’s in psychology or related disciplines can be an excellent way to earn a quality education while minimizing student debt.

What financial aid options are available for those pursuing a Master’s in Psychology?

Financing a master’s in psychology can feel overwhelming, but there are several aid options you can tap into to make it more affordable. Here are the most common ones, along with tips on how to use them strategically:

• Scholarships: Awards based on merit, academic achievement, or specific criteria (e.g. field of study, background, demographic). Doesn’t need to be paid back. Many professional organizations, private donors, and universities offer scholarships specifically for psychology or counseling master’s students.
• Grants: Typically awarded based on financial need. Also non-repayable. Federal, state, and school grants are some possibilities.
• Graduate Assistantships/Fellowships: Universities often offer assistantships (teaching, research, or administrative) or fellowships that provide a stipend and/or tuition remission in exchange for work. These are especially common in research-oriented programs.
• Federal Student Loans: If you fill out the FAFSA, you’ll often be eligible for federal graduate student loans. These come with set interest rates and more favorable repayment terms.
• Loan Forgiveness/Repayment Assistance Programs: For grads who work in public service, nonprofit, or underserved areas, there are programs that forgive or help repay a portion of federal student loans provided you meet certain requirements.
• Work-Study or Part-Time Work: Part-time on-campus jobs or departmental roles that allow you to work while studying. This helps with living costs or minor school fees.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: If you’re currently employed in a relevant field, your employer may offer help with or fully reimburse tuition, especially if your work is aligned with what you study in your master’s.

For students entering government or nonprofit roles, obtaining relevant certifications like those in information security can sometimes open up unexpected funding opportunities. For example, in other industries, credentials that does CISSP increase salary often lead to higher pay and better loan repayment capacity—an encouraging parallel for psychology graduates seeking financial stability after earning their degrees.

What specializations are available in a master's degree in psychology?

A master’s in psychology offers diverse specializations that allow students to tailor their studies to specific career goals and areas of interest. Whether you’re drawn to clinical work, research, education, or business applications, each concentration provides focused training in theory, practice, and applied skills. Choosing a specialization not only shapes your professional path but also determines the types of clients or organizations you’ll serve.

Popular specializations include:

• Clinical Psychology: Prepares students to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders through evidence-based therapy and intervention. Often leads to licensure as a counselor or therapist.
• Counseling Psychology: Focuses on helping individuals cope with emotional, social, and life challenges, emphasizing personal growth and well-being.
• Industrial-Organizational Psychology: Applies psychological principles to workplace behavior, including hiring, leadership, motivation, and performance improvement.
• Forensic Psychology: Combines psychology and criminal justice, training students to work in courts, correctional facilities, or law enforcement agencies.
• School Psychology: Centers on supporting students’ learning and behavior within educational settings, often leading to state certification as a school psychologist.
• Health Psychology: Examines how psychological factors influence physical health, preparing graduates to work in healthcare, wellness programs, or rehabilitation settings.
• Developmental Psychology: Studies psychological growth across the lifespan, equipping professionals for roles in education, research, and child or elder care programs.

Some programs also offer emerging specializations such as neuropsychology, sports psychology, or community psychology, reflecting growing demand for expertise in diverse and applied contexts.

So, what can you do with a masters in psychology? The answer depends on your area of specialization.

What is the job outlook for graduates of a Master’s in Psychology program?

The job outlook for psychology graduates—especially at the master’s level—is generally positive, thanks to rising demand for mental health care, educational support, and social services. Below are key trends and projections to help understand what the future might hold:

Key Growth Areas & Projections

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment for professionals like substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow by around 17% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average for all occupations.
• Meanwhile, the employment of marriage and family therapists is expected to see significant growth, with an estimated increase of 13% from 2024 to 2034.
• Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists (often requiring advanced degrees beyond a master’s but relevant for master’s-level work under supervision or in allied roles) are projected to see increased demand due to factors including aging populations, awareness of mental health, and need for services in schools and community health settings.

Factors Driving Demand

• Increased awareness of mental health issues and reduced stigma are encouraging more people to seek counseling and therapy services.
• Policy and insurance changes in many states are expanding coverage for mental health services, increasing utilization.
• Mental health challenges among special populations—such as the elderly, veterans, and people affected by trauma—are creating demand for more specialists.
• Educational settings (K-12 and higher ed) are hiring more school psychologists and counselors to support student mental health and learning needs.

Considerations & Limitations

• Variation by specialty and state: Some master’s-level roles have strong growth only in specific states, depending on licensing laws. For example, where masters’ practitioners can practice with less supervision, demand tends to be higher.
• Supervision requirements: Even where licensure is available at the master’s level, many roles require supervised practice. This can influence how “independent” the work looks and can affect pay and job responsibilities.
• Competition and credentials: Higher qualifications (specializations, licensure, clinical experience) will improve job prospects. Those with only general training but no licensure or specialization may find fewer opportunities or more constrained roles.

The table below shows  the projected employment growth rate for various psychology-related occupations from 2024 to 2034, as well as their projected employment over this 10-year period. It also shows their median annual salaries as of 2024.

What skills can you develop by pursuing a Master’s in Psychology?

One of the benefits of working as a psychologist -- or earning a master’s degree in psychology, for that matter -- is that you get to build a broad and versatile skill set that’s valuable in both clinical and non-clinical careers. These skills go beyond theory—they prepare graduates to work effectively with individuals, groups, and organizations in diverse settings.

• Research and Analytical Skills: You’ll learn how to design studies, collect and analyze data, interpret results, and apply evidence-based methods to solve real-world problems.
• Critical Thinking: Psychology programs emphasize evaluating information objectively, recognizing bias, and drawing logical conclusions from complex data and human behavior.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Through counseling practice, presentations, and group discussions, you develop strong verbal and written communication abilities—essential for therapy, teaching, or consulting.
• Ethical and Professional Judgment: Coursework and fieldwork focus heavily on ethical guidelines, confidentiality, and professional conduct in psychological and counseling settings.
• Assessment and Evaluation: You’ll gain experience administering, scoring, and interpreting psychological tests and assessments used in clinical, educational, or organizational contexts.
• Counseling and Therapeutic Techniques: Many master’s programs include training in specific counseling methods and interventions, helping you build empathy, active listening, and crisis management skills.
• Cultural Competence: Exposure to diverse populations and perspectives strengthens your ability to understand, respect, and respond appropriately to cultural and individual differences.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: You’ll learn to analyze behavioral issues, identify contributing factors, and apply psychological principles to guide decisions and interventions.
• Leadership and Team Collaboration: Working in research groups or mental health teams builds your leadership, coordination, and conflict-resolution abilities.

How do you choose an accredited Master’s in Psychology program?

When evaluating programs, verify accreditation from recognized bodies to ensure rigorous academic standards and eligibility for state licensure. Assess the curriculum for a balance of theoretical and practical experiences, and review faculty credentials and industry affiliations. Consider program outcomes, student support services, and opportunities for clinical placements or research exposure. Additionally, compare costs and financial aid options, and evaluate resources offered by online pathways such as the cheapest board certified behavior analyst online programs to make informed decisions about program quality and affordability.

Here’s What Master’s in Psychology Graduates Have to Say About Their Career

Other Things You Should Know About Where You Can Get Licensed With a Master's in Psychology