Psychology in Pennsylvania: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in PA
- Licensure Requirements
- How Long Does it Take?
- Out-of-State Licensing
- Licensing Renewal
- Salary Expectations
- Professional Organizations
- FAQ
Pennsylvania offers an excellent environment for aspiring psychologists, with nationally recognized programs that provide exceptional training.
Whether you are a student considering a degree in psychology or a professional seeking information on Pennsylvania’s psychology licensure requirements, this resource provides comprehensive guidance on the state’s licensure process, license reciprocity, and salary outlooks.
Pennsylvania Psychology Licensure Requirements
Pennsylvania psychology licensure requirements are straightforward, with only one licensing option available for psychologists in the state. The Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology manages psychology licensure in Pennsylvania. In addition to passing the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), applicants must also pass the Pennsylvania Psychology Law Examination (PPLE) and complete the required hours of postdoctoral supervised experience.
Psychologist
Pennsylvania licensure requirements for psychologists include:
- A doctoral degree from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or Canadian Psychological Association (CPA)
- Passing scores on both the EPPP and PPLE
- Two years of supervised clinical experience
- Completion of a three-hour, board-approved child abuse recognition and reporting course
- Completion of an application and payment of the $105 fee
The predoctoral clinical internship that is part of any accredited doctoral program can be counted as one of the two required years of supervised experience. Any applicants who have not yet completed at least 12 months and 1,750 hours of practicum experience are required to complete additional supervised experience before qualifying for licensure in Pennsylvania.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in Pennsylvania?
It can take 6-10 years to become a licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania, including the time it takes to earn a doctoral degree, pass both the EPPP and PPLE, and complete two years of required supervised experience, while allowing for several weeks to submit and process your application with the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology.
This time frame might be longer for those still working toward a bachelor’s degree in psychology and shorter for those who are already working toward a doctorate.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Pennsylvania
A psychologist licensed in another state, in good standing, without disciplinary actions or criminal convictions, and with at least two of the previous five years in active clinical practice can practice in Pennsylvania after passing the PPLE and completing a simple application.
The applicant must hold a current license from another state, territory, or country whose licensing requirements are equivalent to Pennsylvania’s requirements. Some psychologists may be offered a provisional license that allows them to begin working in the state while fulfilling additional requirements for licensure.
How to Renew a Psychology License in Pennsylvania
Psychologists in Pennsylvania must renew their licenses every two years. They must have completed 30 hours of continuing education over the two-year period, including at least three hours of ethics training, two hours of child abuse recognition and reporting, and one hour of suicide prevention. A $300 renewal fee is also required.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in Pennsylvania
Psychologists in Pennsylvania earn slightly less than the national average, though they enjoy one of the higher-paying professions in the state. There are many opportunities for licensed psychologists to assume a wide variety of roles, particularly in Pennsylvania’s metropolitan areas.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $80,400 | $38.66 |
| School Psychologists | $89,410 | $42.99 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $102,670 | $49.36 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology
This board regulates the practice and licensure of psychologists in the state. They also uphold a state code of ethics for psychology professionals.
Pennsylvania Psychological Association
The professional association for psychologists in Pennsylvania, this association advocates for psychology and psychological services, offers professional development activities, and educates the public on the field of psychology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Licensure
You must hold a doctoral degree from an accredited program, pass the EPPP and PPLE, and complete two years of supervised clinical experience prior to applying for licensure in Pennsylvania through the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology.
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