How to Become a Psychologist in Kansas
To become a licensed psychologist in Kansas, you need an APA-accredited doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), 2 years of supervised professional experience (1,800 hours postdoctoral), and must pass the EPPP exam with a scaled score of 500 or higher. The complete process typically takes 10-12 years, and licensed psychologists in Kansas earn median annual salaries of around $83,310-$96,230.
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Kansas offers strong career opportunities for licensed psychologists, with a growing need for mental health professionals across clinical, educational, and organizational settings. Whether you're interested in clinical psychology, school psychology, or specialized fields like neuropsychology, Kansas provides clear pathways to licensure through the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board.
The journey to becoming a psychologist in Kansas requires dedication, advanced education, and supervised clinical experience. This comprehensive guide walks you through each step, from choosing the right doctoral program to passing the licensure examination and building your career in the Sunflower State.
Education Requirements for Psychologist Licensing in Kansas
Kansas requires psychologists to hold a doctoral degree from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program. This doctoral training provides the advanced theoretical knowledge and clinical skills necessary for independent practice.
Doctoral Degree Requirements
You must complete one of the following doctoral degrees:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology: Research-focused degree emphasizing scientific methodology, typically taking 5-7 years to complete
- Doctor of Psychology (PsyD): Practice-focused degree emphasizing clinical application, typically taking 4-6 years to complete
Both degree types qualify you for full licensure in Kansas, though they differ in emphasis. PhD programs prepare graduates for research and academic careers, as well as clinical practice, while PsyD programs focus primarily on applied clinical work.
APA Accreditation Matters
Kansas mandates graduation from an APA-accredited doctoral program. This accreditation ensures your education meets national standards for professional psychology practice. Programs without APA accreditation won't qualify you for licensure, so verify accreditation status before enrolling.
You can search for APA-accredited psychology programs in Kansas and compare their specializations, admission requirements, and completion rates.
| Degree Component | PhD Program | PsyD Program |
|---|---|---|
| Program Length | 5-7 years | 4-6 years |
| Focus | Research & Practice | Clinical Practice |
| Dissertation | Original research required | Clinical project or dissertation |
| Internship | Required (typically Year 5-6) | Required (integrated throughout) |
| Career Paths | Research, academia, clinical practice | Clinical practice, private practice |
School Psychology Exception
If you're pursuing a career specifically in school psychology, Kansas offers an alternative pathway through the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) rather than the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. You can become a licensed specialist school psychologist with a master's degree and completion of the Praxis School Psychologist examination, rather than a doctoral degree. This streamlined path prepares you to work exclusively in educational settings under the oversight of the KSDE.
Supervised Professional Experience Requirements
After completing your doctoral degree, Kansas requires 2 years (3,600 hours total) of supervised professional psychology experience. This hands-on training ensures you can apply your academic knowledge in real-world clinical settings before practicing independently.
Breaking Down the Experience Requirements
Kansas structures the supervised experience in two phases:
- Pre-doctoral experience (Optional): Up to 1,800 hours can be completed during your doctoral internship
- Post-doctoral experience (Required): Minimum of 1,800 hours must be completed after earning your doctoral degree
This means at least one full year of your supervised experience must occur after graduation, even if your doctoral program included a comprehensive internship.
| Experience Type | Hours Required | When Completed | Supervision Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-doctoral Internship | Up to 1,800 hours | During doctoral program | Licensed psychologist supervisor |
| Post-doctoral Residency | Minimum 1,800 hours | After doctoral degree | Licensed psychologist in Kansas |
| General Services | Included throughout | Throughout both phases | Non-clinical psychology activities |
What Counts as General Psychological Services
Kansas requires that your supervised experience include a range of general or non-clinical psychological services beyond direct patient care. These activities include:
- Psychological assessment and testing
- Consultation with other professionals
- Program development and evaluation
- Supervision of other practitioners
- Research activities related to psychology
- Teaching or training in professional psychology
This requirement ensures you develop breadth across psychology practice areas, not just direct clinical work.
Finding and Working with a Supervisor
Your postdoctoral supervisor must be a licensed psychologist in good standing with the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. They'll provide regular oversight, evaluate your clinical work, and verify your competence for independent practice. Choose a supervisor whose expertise aligns with your career goals and who commits to meaningful mentorship throughout your training.
EPPP Examination Requirements
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) serves as the national licensing exam for psychologists. Kansas, like all U.S. states, requires passing this comprehensive assessment before granting full licensure.
Understanding the EPPP
The EPPP tests your knowledge across eight content domains of professional psychology:
- Biological Bases of Behavior: Neuroanatomy, psychopharmacology, sensation and perception
- Cognitive-Affective Bases of Behavior: Learning, memory, cognition, emotion, motivation
- Social and Cultural Bases of Behavior: Social psychology, cultural diversity, group dynamics
- Growth and Lifespan Development: Developmental psychology across the lifespan
- Assessment and Diagnosis: Psychological testing, psychometrics, diagnostic classification
- Treatment and Intervention: Therapeutic approaches, treatment planning, psychotherapy theories
- Research Methods and Statistics: Research design, statistical analysis, measurement
- Ethical and Professional Issues: Professional standards, legal issues, ethical practice
Exam Format and Scoring
The EPPP consists of 225 multiple-choice questions administered via computer. You'll have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete the exam. Kansas requires a scaled score of 500 or higher to pass. The EPPP uses a scaled scoring system ranging from 200 to 800, not a percentage score. Each state sets its own passing standard, and Kansas's requirement of 500 represents the midpoint of this scale.
The national pass rate for first-time test-takers typically ranges from 80% to 85%, although this varies by program quality and preparation level. Most doctoral programs prepare you well for the content, but dedicated study remains essential.
Application Timeline and Process
You must submit your licensure application to the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board at least 8 weeks before you plan to take the EPPP. The board reviews your credentials, verifies your education and supervised experience, and authorizes you to register for the examination.
Once authorized, you'll register directly with the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB), which administers the EPPP. Testing appointments are available year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Kansas.
| EPPP Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 225 multiple-choice |
| Time Allowed | 4 hours 15 minutes |
| Passing Score (Kansas) | 500 (scaled score) |
| Test Format | Computer-based at testing center |
| Exam Fee | $600 (as of 2025) |
| Score Reporting | Immediately after completion |
Preparing for the EPPP
Most candidates study for 2-4 months before taking the EPPP. Effective preparation strategies include:
- Using commercial study materials like AATBS or Academic Review
- Forming study groups with fellow graduates
- Taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Focusing extra attention on your weaker content areas
- Reviewing ethical standards and Kansas-specific regulations
If you don't pass on your first attempt, Kansas allows retakes after a 90-day waiting period.
Complete Timeline to Licensure in Kansas
Understanding the full timeline helps you plan your psychology career path realistically. Here's what to expect:
| Stage | Duration | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | Complete undergraduate psychology major with a strong GPA |
| Doctoral Program | 5-7 years (PhD) 4-6 years (PsyD) |
Coursework, practicum, comprehensive exams, dissertation, internship |
| Postdoctoral Residency | 1-2 years | 1,800 hours of supervised experience in Kansas |
| EPPP Preparation & Exam | 2-4 months | Study, apply 8 weeks early, and pass with a 500+ score |
| License Processing | 4-8 weeks | Board review and approval |
| Total Timeline | 10-14 years | From starting undergraduate to full licensure |
Most people complete the journey in 10-12 years; however, accelerated pathways are available if you enter doctoral programs with advanced standing or complete requirements efficiently.
APA-Accredited Psychology Programs in Kansas
Kansas offers several pathways to earn a psychology degree, although doctoral-level, APA-accredited programs remain limited within the state. Many Kansas residents pursue doctoral training at programs in neighboring states or through distance education options that meet Kansas licensing requirements.
Kansas Doctoral Programs
The University of Kansas offers the primary in-state option for doctoral training in psychology. Their APA-accredited programs include:
- Clinical Psychology PhD: Boulder model scientist-practitioner program
- Counseling Psychology PhD: Focus on wellness and preventive interventions
- School Psychology PhD: Training for both practice and research in educational settings
These programs are highly competitive, typically accepting 5-10% of applicants annually. Strong GRE scores, research experience, and relevant clinical or volunteer work improve your admission chances.
Master 's-Level Training in Kansas
If you're beginning your graduate education, several Kansas universities offer master's programs in psychology that prepare you for doctoral applications:
- Wichita State University - Master of Arts in Psychology
- Emporia State University - Master of Science in Psychology
- Kansas State University - Master of Science in Psychological Sciences
- Fort Hays State University - Master of Science in Psychology
While these programs don't lead directly to licensure, they strengthen your doctoral applications and provide valuable research or clinical experience. Learn more about psychology education pathways in Kansas.
Psychology Career Outlook and Salary in Kansas
Licensed psychologists in Kansas enjoy strong earning potential and positive job market conditions. The state's growing population and increasing awareness of mental health needs continue to drive demand for qualified practitioners.
Salary Data for Kansas Psychologists
Note: Updated 2025 Kansas psychologist-specific salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics should be inserted here. The BLS releases state-level occupational employment statistics each May for the previous year.
According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Kansas employs approximately 1,060 psychologists across various practice areas, including clinical, counseling, school, and specialized settings. Salaries vary considerably based on specialization, experience level, practice setting, and geographic location within the state.
Typical salary ranges for Kansas psychologists include:
- Entry-level (0-3 years): $65,000-$75,000 annually
- Mid-career (4-9 years): $75,000-$90,000 annually
- Experienced (10+ years): $83,310-$96,230+ annually
Urban areas like Kansas City and Wichita typically offer higher salaries than rural regions, though cost-of-living differences often balance out the disparity.
Employment Settings and Earning Potential
| Practice Setting | Typical Salary Range | Common Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Private Practice | $80,000-$150,000+ | Flexible schedule, autonomy, higher earning ceiling |
| Hospital/Medical Center | $75,000-$105,000 | Health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off |
| Community Mental Health | $65,000-$85,000 | Loan forgiveness programs, mission-driven work |
| School District | $60,000-$80,000 | Summer break, pension, job security |
| University/College | $70,000-$95,000 | Academic calendar, research opportunities |
| Government/VA | $80,000-$110,000 | Federal benefits, loan repayment, and pension |
Job Growth and Market Demand
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth for psychology careers nationwide through 2032. Kansas mirrors these national trends, with particular demand for:
- School psychologists addressing educational and behavioral needs
- Clinical psychologists treating anxiety, depression, and trauma
- Geropsychologists serving Kansas's aging population
- Substance abuse treatment specialists
Rural and underserved areas of Kansas face critical shortages of mental health providers, creating opportunities for psychologists willing to practice outside major metro areas. Many rural practitioners receive signing bonuses or enhanced compensation packages.
Psychology Specializations in Kansas
Licensed psychologists in Kansas can practice across numerous specialty areas. Your doctoral training and postdoctoral experience typically determine your specialization; however, many psychologists maintain general practices that serve diverse client populations.
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through evidence-based psychotherapy and psychological assessment. In Kansas, clinical psychologists work in hospitals, private practices, community mental health centers, and specialty clinics, treating conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and personality disorders.
Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychologists focus on wellness, personal development, and helping individuals navigate life transitions and relationship challenges. They typically work with less severe pathology than clinical psychologists, emphasizing strengths-based approaches and preventive mental health care.
School Psychology
School psychologists work within educational settings, conducting assessments for learning disabilities and behavioral problems, developing intervention strategies, and consulting with teachers and parents to address these issues. Kansas school psychologists can become licensed through either the doctoral route or the specialist-level pathway, which requires a master's degree and a passing score on the Praxis examination.
Neuropsychology
Neuropsychologists assess and treat cognitive difficulties resulting from brain injury, neurological conditions, or developmental disorders. They conduct specialized testing to evaluate memory, attention, language, and executive functioning. Kansas has a growing need for neuropsychologists, particularly in medical settings and rehabilitation facilities.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology
I-O psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace settings, focusing on employee selection, training, organizational development, and workplace wellness. While less common than clinical specialties, I-O psychologists in Kansas work with corporations, consulting firms, and government agencies.
Explore additional psychologist career paths and specializations to find the area that aligns with your interests and strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Kansas?
The complete process typically takes 10-12 years from starting your bachelor's degree to earning full licensure. This includes 4 years of undergraduate education, 5-7 years of doctoral training, 1-2 years of postdoctoral supervised experience, and several months for exam preparation and license processing.
Can I become a psychologist in Kansas with a master's degree?
No, Kansas requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program for full psychology licensure. The only exception is for school psychologists, who can practice in educational settings with a master's degree and the Licensed Specialist in School Psychology credential, which is earned through the Praxis examination.
Does Kansas offer reciprocity for psychologists licensed in other states?
Kansas does not have automatic reciprocity, but offers licensure by reciprocity or endorsement for psychologists already licensed in other jurisdictions, depending on which state you're coming from and whether that state has a reciprocal agreement with Kansas. You must meet Kansas's education, examination, and experience requirements, though the board may accept your existing credentials without requiring you to repeat completed requirements. Contact the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board to determine your specific pathway.
What's the difference between a psychologist and other mental health professionals in Kansas?
Psychologists hold doctoral degrees and can independently diagnose mental disorders, conduct psychological testing, and provide psychotherapy. In contrast, licensed professional counselors typically have master's degrees and focus on counseling rather than assessment, while social workers and marriage and family therapists each have distinct training and scope of practice.
Can psychologists prescribe medication in Kansas?
No, psychologists in Kansas are not authorized to prescribe medication. Only psychiatrists (medical doctors) and certain advanced practice nurses have prescriptive authority for mental health medications in Kansas. However, psychologists often work collaboratively with prescribers to coordinate comprehensive treatment plans.
How much does it cost to get licensed as a psychologist in Kansas?
The direct licensing costs include the EPPP exam fee ($687), Kansas application fee (approximately $100-$200), and background check fees (around $50-$100). However, the largest expense is your doctoral education, which can cost $100,000-$300,000+, depending on whether you attend a public or private program and receive funding support.
Do I need malpractice insurance to practice psychology in Kansas?
While Kansas doesn't legally mandate professional liability insurance, it's strongly recommended and often required by employers or for hospital privileges. Most psychologists carry malpractice insurance with coverage limits ranging from $1 million to $3 million. Annual premiums typically range from $800 to $2,000, depending on your practice setting and specialty.
Can I complete my postdoctoral hours through telehealth in Kansas?
Kansas permits some telehealth supervision and service delivery as part of postdoctoral training, subject to board approval and current regulations. Guidelines expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, though some provisions may be temporary. You should verify current requirements and obtain prior approval from the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board before counting telehealth hours toward your supervised experience, as regulations around distance supervision continue evolving.
What continuing education is required to maintain my Kansas psychology license?
Kansas requires 50 continuing education credits every two years for license renewal. These credits must include at least 6 hours in professional ethics and 3 hours related to diagnosis and treatment. The board accepts courses from APA-approved sponsors and other recognized providers of continuing education.
Are there psychology shortage areas in Kansas that offer incentives?
Yes, many rural Kansas counties face significant shortages of mental health providers. The National Health Service Corps and Kansas state programs offer loan repayment assistance for psychologists willing to practice in underserved areas. Some rural hospitals and community mental health centers also provide signing bonuses, enhanced salaries, or relocation assistance to attract psychologists.
Key Takeaways
Essential Points for Becoming a Kansas Psychologist
- Doctoral degree required: You must earn a PhD or PsyD from an APA-accredited program. School psychologists can practice with a master's degree and specialist license.
- Two-year supervised experience: Kansas requires a total of 3,600 hours of supervised experience, with at least 1,800 hours completed postdoctoral under the supervision of a licensed Kansas psychologist.
- EPPP passing score of 500: You must pass the national licensing examination with a scaled score of 500 or higher. Apply to the board at least 8 weeks before testing.
- Timeline is 10-12 years: Plan for approximately a decade from starting undergraduate education to earning full licensure, including 5-7 years of doctoral training.
- Strong earning potential: Licensed psychologists in Kansas earn median salaries between $83,310 and $96,230, with higher earnings possible in private practice and specialized areas.
- Limited in-state programs: The University of Kansas offers the primary APA-accredited doctoral programs in the state. Consider programs in neighboring states or approved distance education options.
- Growing job market: Kansas faces increasing demand for psychologists, particularly in rural areas, schools, and specialized treatment settings serving aging and substance abuse populations.
Ready to Start Your Kansas Psychology Career?
Taking the first step toward becoming a licensed psychologist begins with finding the right educational program. Whether you're researching doctoral programs, comparing specializations, or exploring funding options, selecting an accredited program that aligns with your career goals is crucial.
Explore APA-Accredited Psychology Programs
Additional Kansas Mental Health Licensing Resources
- Kansas Professional Counselor Licensing Requirements
- How to Become a Licensed Social Worker in Kansas
- Kansas Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing Process
- Explore Psychology Career Specializations
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, Psychologists-All Other; Psychiatric Techs; Psychiatrists; Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health and Mental Health Counselors; Marriage & Family Therapists; and Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
