How long does it take to become a psychologist?

Answer 1

a masters degree in psychology requires at least 2 years of graduate study and qualifies a psychologist to work as an assistant under the supervision of doctoral level psychologists, and conduct reasearch and psychological evaluations. Requirements usually include practical experience and a masters.

Answer 2

If you follow the 'typical' educational pattern of most psychologists (bachelor's degree - 4 yrs, masters - 2, doctorate - 2),then you are looking at 8 years of study, beginning to end, barring any setbacks. Some schools may offer accelerated programs where your master's and doctoral studies are combined into one continuous program (my alma mater - Old Dominion University - is one such school). If you are still in high school, ask your guidance counselor for information about schools that have psychology degree programs.

Answer 3

The following is written by and according to the U.S. Department of Labor and particular to the education and training required for psychologists.

A master's or doctoral degree, and a license, are required for most psychologists.

Education and training. A doctoral degree usually is required for independent practice as a psychologist. Psychologists with a Ph.D. or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) qualify for a wide range of teaching, research, clinical, and counseling positions in universities, healthcare services, elementary and secondary schools, private industry, and government. Psychologists with a doctoral degree often work in clinical positions or in private practices, but they also sometimes teach, conduct research, or carry out administrative responsibilities.

A doctoral degree generally requires about 5 years of full-time graduate study, culminating in a dissertation based on original research. Courses in quantitative experimental methods and research design, which include the use of computer-based analysis, are an integral part of graduate study and are necessary to complete the dissertation. The Psy.D. degree may be based on practical work and examinations rather than a dissertation. In clinical, counseling, and school psychology, the requirements for the doctoral degree usually include an additional year of post-doctoral supervised experience.

For the source and more detailed information concerning your request, click on the related links section (U.S. Department of Labor) indicated directly below this answer section.