How to Become a Psychologist in Maryland
To become a licensed psychologist in Maryland, you need an APA-accredited doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), 3,250 hours of supervised postdoctoral experience, as required by the Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists, and must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). The full licensure process generally takes between 9 and 11 years, depending on education path and training format.
To become a licensed psychologist in Maryland, you need an APA-accredited doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), 3,250 hours of supervised postdoctoral experience, as required by the Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists, and you must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). The complete licensure process generally takes between 9 and 11 years, depending on the education path and training format.
Maryland's psychology profession continues to grow, with increasing demand for qualified mental health professionals across clinical, educational, and organizational settings. The Old Line State offers diverse opportunities for psychologists, from Baltimore's healthcare systems to the research institutions in the Washington D.C. metro area. If you're considering a psychology career in Maryland, understanding the licensure requirements is your first step toward making a meaningful impact on people's lives.
Table of Contents
This comprehensive guide walks you through every requirement, from selecting the right doctoral program to passing your licensing exam and completing postdoctoral training. You'll learn about educational pathways, supervision requirements, examination details, and what to expect in terms of timeline and career prospects.
Overview: Your Path to Licensure
Becoming a licensed psychologist in Maryland is a significant commitment that requires dedication, advanced education, and supervised clinical experience. The journey typically spans 9-11 years from the start of your bachelor's degree to receiving your license. Here's what the pathway looks like:
The process involves four major milestones: earning a doctoral degree from an accredited program, completing supervised professional experience, passing the national licensing examination, and applying for your Maryland state license. Each step builds on the previous one, preparing you for the responsibility of diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.
Maryland psychologists work in a diverse range of settings, including private practices, hospitals, schools, government agencies, and research institutions. You can specialize in clinical psychology, school psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, or other areas, depending on your interests and career goals.
| Phase | Duration | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | Complete psychology or related major, research experience, and GRE preparation |
| Doctoral Program (PhD/PsyD) | 4-7 years, depending on program type and full- or part-time enrollment | Coursework, practicum, dissertation (PhD), comprehensive exams |
| Supervised Experience | 2+ years | 3,250 hours total, 75% supervised by a licensed psychologist |
| EPPP & Licensure | 3-6 months | Pass the EPPP exam, submit the application, and receive the license |
Step 1: Complete Your Doctoral Education
Maryland requires all psychologists to hold a doctoral degree in psychology. This isn't just about getting any advanced degree - your program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or listed in the designated doctoral programs by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). This accreditation ensures your education meets the rigorous standards needed for professional practice.
Choosing Between PhD and PsyD Programs
You have two doctoral paths to consider: the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). Both degrees qualify you for licensure in Maryland, but they emphasize different aspects of the profession.
| Degree Type | Primary Focus | Typical Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) | Research and academia | 5-7 years | Those interested in research, teaching, or academic careers alongside clinical work |
| PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) | Clinical practice | 4-6 years | Those focused primarily on direct clinical practice and applied psychology |
PhD programs typically require a dissertation based on original research, while PsyD programs emphasize clinical training and may require a doctoral project instead. Both include extensive coursework, practicum experiences, and a full-year internship.
Maryland Doctoral Programs
Maryland is home to several respected psychology degree programs, offering both PhD and PsyD options. Programs are available at major universities in Baltimore, College Park, and throughout the state. When selecting a program, verify its APA accreditation status and consider factors like specialization options, faculty expertise, clinical training sites, and funding opportunities.
Most doctoral programs require a bachelor's degree (preferably in psychology), research experience, clinical or volunteer experience, and letters of recommendation that are compelling. Some doctoral programs require GRE scores, although many APA-accredited PsyD programs now waive this requirement. The application process is highly competitive, so it's recommended to start preparing at least a year in advance.
Step 2: Gain Supervised Professional Experience
After earning your doctoral degree, Maryland requires you to complete supervised postdoctoral experience before you can practice independently. This hands-on training allows you to apply your academic knowledge in real-world settings under the guidance of licensed psychologists.
The 3,250-Hour Requirement
You must accumulate a minimum of 3,250 hours of professional psychological experience, as required by the Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists. This typically takes at least two years of full-time work, though the actual duration varies depending on your employment situation. Part-time positions will naturally extend this timeline.
Here's what counts toward your required hours:
- Direct client services: Assessment, diagnosis, therapy, and counseling
- Consultation: Working with other professionals on client care
- Supervision: Receiving guidance from your supervising psychologist
- Professional development: Continuing education, case conferences, and training
Supervision Requirements
At least 75% of your experience hours must be completed under direct supervision by a licensed psychologist. This means 2,437.5 of your 3,250 hours need proper oversight. Your supervisor should be actively involved in your work, providing regular feedback, reviewing cases, and helping you develop the professional competencies necessary for success.
You'll typically meet with your supervisor on a weekly or biweekly basis for formal supervision sessions. These meetings are crucial for your development as they help you navigate complex cases, understand ethical considerations, and refine your clinical skills.
Finding Supervision Opportunities
Most new doctoral graduates complete their supervised hours in settings like community mental health centers, hospitals, VA medical centers, university counseling centers, or group practices. Some pursue postdoctoral fellowships specifically designed to meet licensure requirements while providing structured training in specialized areas.
Step 3: Pass the EPPP Examination
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is the national standardized test all psychologists must pass to earn licensure. Maryland, like all U.S. states and Canadian provinces, requires this exam as proof of your foundational knowledge in psychology.
Exam Format and Content
The EPPP consists of 225 multiple-choice questions covering eight major content areas. You'll have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete the exam. The test is computer-based and administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers.
| Content Area | Percentage | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Bases of Behavior | 12% | Neuroanatomy, psychopharmacology, biology of behavior |
| Cognitive-Affective Bases | 13% | Learning, memory, motivation, emotion |
| Social & Cultural Bases | 12% | Social psychology, diversity, cultural considerations |
| Growth & Lifespan Development | 12% | Developmental psychology across the lifespan |
| Assessment & Diagnosis | 16% | Psychological testing, diagnosis, and evaluation methods |
| Treatment & Intervention | 16% | Therapeutic approaches, treatment planning, and interventions |
| Research Methods | 9% | Research design, statistics, measurement |
| Ethical/Legal/Professional | 10% | Ethics, laws, and professional standards |
Scoring and Requirements
Maryland requires a minimum scaled score of 500 on the EPPP Part 1, as required by the Maryland Board. Scores range from 200 to 800, and the national passing rate typically hovers around 70-75%. You'll receive your score immediately after completing the exam.
If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam. Candidates may retake the EPPP after a 90-day waiting period, as per ASPPB policy. You'll need to pay the exam fee again (approximately $600, plus an additional $87.50 administrative fee charged by Pearson VUE for scheduling the test).
Preparing for Success
Most candidates spend 3 to 6 months preparing for the EPPP. Study materials include official ASPPB practice exams, commercial prep courses, review books, and study groups. Many find that creating a structured study schedule and taking multiple practice exams improves their confidence and performance.
Step 4: Apply for Maryland Licensure
Once you've completed your supervised hours and passed the EPPP, you're ready to apply for your psychology license through the Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists. This is the final administrative step before you can practice independently.
Application Requirements
Your application to the Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists must include verification of your doctoral degree, documentation of your supervised experience hours, EPPP scores, letters of recommendation, and proof of good standing in any other states where you hold or have held licensure.
The board reviews applications on a rolling basis. Processing times vary, but please expect 2-4 months from submission to receipt of your license number. You'll need to pay application and licensing fees, which typically total several hundred dollars.
Maintaining Your License
Maryland psychologists are required to renew their licenses every two years. Renewal requires completing continuing education credits to stay current with developments in the field. You'll also need to maintain professional liability insurance and adhere to the board's code of ethics.
Psychology Specializations in Maryland
Maryland's diverse economy and population create opportunities across multiple areas of psychology specialization. Your doctoral program will help you develop expertise in your chosen location, though many psychologists maintain a general practice or combine specializations.
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. This is the most extensive specialization, with opportunities in hospitals, clinics, private practice, and community mental health centers throughout Maryland. You'll work with individuals, couples, families, and groups dealing with conditions ranging from depression and anxiety to severe mental illness.
School Psychology
School psychologists work in Maryland's public and private school systems, helping students overcome learning and behavioral challenges. You'll conduct assessments, develop intervention plans, consult with teachers and parents, and support students' academic and emotional development. This specialization is particularly in demand given Maryland's focus on education.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology
I-O psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace issues. Maryland's proximity to Washington, D.C., and its thriving business sectors create strong demand for psychologists who can help with employee selection, training, organizational development, and workplace well-being. You might work for corporations, consulting firms, or government agencies.
Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychologists work at the intersection of psychology and the legal system. Maryland's court system and correctional facilities need psychologists who can conduct competency evaluations, provide expert testimony, assess risk, and deliver treatment to justice-involved individuals.
Health Psychology
Health psychologists focus on how psychological factors affect physical health. You might work in Maryland's hospitals and medical centers, helping patients manage chronic conditions, cope with illness, change health behaviors, or navigate medical procedures. This field integrates behavioral medicine with traditional psychology.
Career Outlook and Salary in Maryland
Maryland's psychology job market remains strong, driven by increased awareness of mental health needs and the state's commitment to healthcare access. The demand for psychological services continues to grow across clinical, educational, and organizational settings.
Employment Outlook
Maryland is home to numerous healthcare systems, universities, government agencies, and private practices that employ psychologists. Major employers include Johns Hopkins Hospital, the University of Maryland Medical System, federal agencies in the D.C. metro area, and the Maryland public school system. The state's population centers, particularly Baltimore and the D.C. suburbs, offer the highest concentration of opportunities.
Job growth for psychologists is projected to continue at a healthy pace through 2025 and beyond. The increasing recognition of mental health as an essential aspect of healthcare, combined with Maryland's educated and insured population, creates favorable conditions for psychology careers.
Salary Expectations
Psychologist salaries in Maryland vary based on specialization, experience, work setting, and geographic location within the state. Positions in the Baltimore-Washington corridor typically offer higher compensation than those in rural areas, reflecting the higher cost of living and market demand.
Entry-level psychologists in Maryland typically earn between $70,000 and $85,000, with experienced professionals averaging $111,350 per year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Those in private practice, specialized fields, or leadership positions may exceed these ranges considerably. Industrial-organizational psychologists often command the highest salaries, particularly those working with federal contractors or in corporate consulting.
Benefits packages typically include health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, and continuing education allowances. Many psychologists appreciate the flexibility to combine part-time positions, such as maintaining a small private practice while working for an institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a psychologist in Maryland?
The complete licensure process generally takes between 9 and 11 years from the start of your bachelor's degree. This includes 4 years for your undergraduate degree, 4-7 years for your doctoral program (depending on program type and enrollment status), and 2+ years for supervised postdoctoral experience. Some individuals complete the process more quickly, while others take longer, depending on their educational path and whether they study full-time or part-time.
What's the difference between a PhD and PsyD in psychology?
A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) emphasizes research and is ideal if you're interested in academic careers, conducting research, or combining research with clinical practice. A PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) focuses primarily on clinical practice and applied psychology. Both degrees qualify you for licensure in Maryland, and both programs include clinical training. Your choice depends on your career goals.
Can I practice psychology in Maryland with just a master's degree?
No, Maryland requires a doctoral degree for licensure as a psychologist. However, with a master's degree, you can work in related mental health fields, such as becoming a licensed clinical professional counselor, licensed clinical social worker, or marriage and family therapist. These are valuable careers, but they're different from being a licensed psychologist.
Do I need to retake the EPPP if I move to Maryland from another state?
No, EPPP scores transfer between states. If you're already licensed in another state and want to practice in Maryland, you can apply for licensure by endorsement. You'll need to meet Maryland's specific requirements and submit documentation of your existing license and credentials; however, you will not be required to retake the EPPP.
Are there online doctoral programs in psychology accepted in Maryland?
Maryland accepts degrees from APA-accredited programs, including some that offer online or hybrid formats. However, all doctoral programs require substantial in-person clinical training regardless of how coursework is delivered. When considering online programs, verify that the program is APA-accredited and ensure it meets the requirements of the Maryland Board before enrolling.
What does the EPPP exam cost?
The EPPP examination fee is approximately $600, plus an additional $87.50 administrative fee charged by Pearson VUE for scheduling the test. Additional costs may include study materials (typically $200-$500), prep courses (ranging from $300-$1,500), and application fees to your state board—budget at least $1,000-$2,500 total for the examination and application process.
What is the total cost of the entire licensing process?
The total cost varies depending on your educational path. Doctoral programs cost anywhere from $50,000 to over $200,000, though many PhD students receive funding through teaching or research assistantships. Beyond tuition, expect to pay $1,500 to $3,000 for EPPP, application fees, and initial licensing costs. Ongoing expenses include license renewal fees and continuing education.
Can I specialize in more than one area of psychology?
Yes, many psychologists develop expertise in multiple areas or work across specializations. Your license doesn't restrict you to one field. However, ethical practice requires that you only work within your areas of competence, so additional training or supervision may be necessary when expanding into new specializations after licensure.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland requires an APA-accredited doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology for licensure.
- You must complete 3,250 hours of supervised postdoctoral experience, as required by the Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists.s
- Passing the EPPP Part 1 examination with a score of 500 or higher is mandatory .ry
- The complete licensure process typically takes between 9 and 11 years, from earning a bachelor's degree to obtaining licensure.
- Multiple specializations are available, including clinical, school, I-O, forensic, and health psychology.y
- Maryland offers strong career prospects with competitive salaries, particularly in Baltimore and the D.C. metro area.
- The Maryland Board of Examiners of Psychologists oversees all licensing requirements and applications for psychologists.
Ready to Start Your Psychology Career in Maryland?
Explore APA-accredited doctoral programs in Maryland and surrounding states. Compare PhD and PsyD options, review specializations, find programs that match your career goals, and take the first step toward making a difference in people's lives as a licensed psychologist.
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.
