How to Become a Neuropsychologist
Are you interested in how the mind works? Learn how to become a neuropsychologist, including education and licensure requirements.At Psychology.org we believe in providing trustworthy and actionable information about degree programs, careers, professional issues, and regional laws concerning the psychology, counseling, and social work professions. Our writers and editors leverage the latest data from primary sources across the site.
We also rely on our freelance Integrity Network, which is comprised of experienced professionals who pull from their first-hand industry experience and expertise to review content for accuracy and completeness. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Key Takeaways
- Neuropsychologists study brain-behavior relationships, aiding in mental health and research.
- You typically need 10-13 years of education and training to become one.
- Average annual earnings are around $111,000, with a projected 7% job growth from 2023 to 2033.
Interested in studying how the brain affects behavior, cognition, and mental health? Neuropsychology blends training in psychology and neuroscience, leading to careers in clinical and research settings. Learn about the educational and licensing requirements to become a neuropsychologist and the salary potential once you enter the field.
Steps to Become a Neuropsychologist
The path to becoming a neuropsychologist is rigorous. It requires doctoral training, a supervised postdoctoral internship, and other specific requirements for state licensure.
- 1
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years to complete if you attend full-time, provides the required foundation for a graduate degree. Choosing a major in psychology, neuroscience, biology, or a related field helps prepare you for graduate work in neuropsychology. Undergraduate coursework in math and the natural sciences also boosts your chances for admission to a graduate program.
- 2
Earn a Master’s Degree
A master’s in neuropsychology or a master’s in psychology with a neuropsychology concentration prepares you for doctoral studies and can help you decide if neuropsychology is a good career choice.
A master’s usually takes two years to complete if you enroll full-time, although some schools offer online programs that you can finish in 18 months. However, many of these programs will require experiential training, such as internships, that require in-person commitments.
You may also consider enrolling in a doctoral program after earning your bachelor’s degree, allowing you to earn your master’s while pursuing your doctorate.
- 3
Earn a Doctoral Degree
To become a licensed neuropsychologist, you must complete a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. The Psy.D. prepares you for clinical practice while the Ph.D. emphasizes research. You can finish a doctorate in neuropsychology in 4-7 years, depending on how long it takes to complete the program requirements.
A neuropsychology doctoral program features a rigorous curriculum in neuroscience fundamentals, neuropsychological assessment and evaluation, clinical neuropsychology, research, and a supervised internship. Attending an APA-accredited program is crucial for licensure as a neuropsychologist, and it requires in-person learning and training.
- 4
Complete a Postdoctoral Fellowship
Most states require a supervised postdoctoral experience of 1-2 years to qualify for licensure. This postdoctoral fellowship is designed to apply the training you gained in your doctoral program to real-world clinical settings and research projects. By participating in supervised practice, a fellowship in neuropsychology provides advanced training in assessment, diagnosis, intervention, consultation, and research.
- 5
Pursue State Licensure
All states require completion of a doctoral degree and a passing score on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) to practice as a licensed psychologist. Because each state establishes specific requirements for licensure as a psychologist, it is important to check with the licensing board in the state where you intend to practice.
Neuropsychologists may pursue additional certifications from the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN) or the American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology (AACN). Board certification through the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) is considered the highest level of professionalism in this field.
How Long Will Becoming a Neuropsychologist Take?
Becoming a licensed neuropsychologist can take ten or more years. However, the timeline varies, depending on how long it takes to earn your doctoral degree, complete a post-doctoral fellowship, and obtain a state license to practice.
| Job | Time to Become |
|---|---|
| Educational Psychologist | 8-10 years |
| Clinical Psychologist | 8-12 years |
| Child Psychologist | 8-12 years |
| Counseling Psychologist | 10-16 years |
How Much Does a Neuropsychologist Make?
Neuropsychologists earn an average annual salary of over $110,000, according to Payscale survey data from January 2025. Psychologists across all specialities are in demand. The U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for psychologists will grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
$111,154
Average Annual Neuropsychologist Salary
$54.54
Average Hourly Neuropsychologist Salary
Source: Payscale, Jan. 2025
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Neuropsychologist
Becoming a neuropsychologist can take 10 or more years, beginning with a bachelor’s degree and completing a doctorate and fellowship. The actual length of time depends on several factors, including specific program and postdoc requirements and how quickly you finish your degrees.
