How to Become a Psychologist in Mississippi
Quick Answer:To become a licensed psychologist in Mississippi, you need a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology from an accredited program, complete 4,000 hours of supervised professional experience (including 2,000 post-doctoral hours), pass the EPPP examination, and pass Mississippi's state oral and jurisprudence exams. The entire process typically takes 8-10 years. While the national median salary for clinical and counseling psychologists is $96,100, Mississippi psychologists typically earn between $67,000-$83,000 median depending on specialty and location.
Mississippi offers a growing and rewarding job market for licensed psychologists. With an estimated 17.2% job growth projected through 2030 according to the Mississippi Department of Employment Security, the state provides competitive compensation and diverse career opportunities for mental health professionals. The path to licensure involves rigorous education, extensive supervised training, and comprehensive examination requirements designed to ensure only qualified professionals enter the field.
This guide walks you through every step of becoming a licensed psychologist in Mississippi, from selecting the right doctoral program to maintaining your license after certification. Understanding these requirements early helps you plan your educational pathway and career timeline effectively.
Table of Contents
- Educational Requirements
- Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.: Choosing Your Path
- School Psychology Alternative
- Supervised Professional Experience
- EPPP Examination Requirements
- Mississippi State Oral & Jurisprudence Examinations
- Licensing Application Process
- Mississippi Psychologist Salary & Career Outlook
- License Renewal & Continuing Education
- Frequently Asked Questions
Educational Requirements for Psychologist Licensing in Mississippi
The Mississippi State Board of Psychology requires applicants to complete a doctoral-level education in psychology from an accredited institution. This represents the foundation of your professional training and typically constitutes the longest phase of your licensure journey.
Doctoral Degree Requirements
Your doctoral program must be accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or authorized by Provincial Statute or Royal Charter to grant doctoral degrees. The board accepts programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or those meeting equivalent standards through the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS).
Most candidates complete their doctoral training in 5-7 years beyond the bachelor's degree, including both coursework and clinical training components. Programs emphasize evidence-based practice, psychological assessment, intervention techniques, professional ethics, and cultural competency. Your coursework prepares you for both the supervised clinical experience requirements and the comprehensive examination series.
Ph.D. vs. Psy.D.: Choosing Your Path
Understanding the distinction between these two doctoral pathways helps you select the program that aligns with your career goals and learning preferences.
| Degree Type | Focus | Timeline | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) | Research and scientific training with clinical practice | 5-7 years | Those interested in academic careers, research positions, or university teaching alongside clinical work |
| Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology) | Clinical practice and applied psychology | 4-6 years | Practitioners focused primarily on clinical service delivery, private practice, or hospital settings |
Both degrees qualify you for full psychology licensure in Mississippi. Ph.D. programs often provide tuition waivers and stipends through teaching and research assistantships, while Psy.D. programs typically require tuition payment but offer more intensive clinical training hours.
School Psychology Alternative Pathway
Mississippi offers a distinct pathway for professionals pursuing school psychology careers. If you plan to work specifically within educational settings, you can complete a NASP-approved (National Association of School Psychologists) specialist program instead of a full doctorate. This alternative typically requires:
- A 60-credit specialist-level degree (Ed.S.) in school psychology
- NASP program approval verification
- Completion of all remaining Mississippi licensure requirements, including supervised hours and examinations
- Focus on educational assessment, intervention, and consultation in K-12 settings
This pathway generally takes 3-4 years beyond the bachelor's degree and allows you to practice as a licensed school psychologist in Mississippi educational institutions. Many professionals choose this route if they're passionate about working with children and adolescents in academic environments.
Supervised Professional Experience Requirements
Mississippi requires 4,000 hours of supervised professional experience before granting full licensure. This hands-on training ensures you develop clinical competency and professional judgment under experienced supervision.
Experience Hour Breakdown
| Experience Component | Required Hours | Timing | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Doctoral Internship | 2,000 hours minimum (1 year) | During the doctoral program | Can count toward total; APA-accredited internships preferred |
| Post-Doctoral Experience | 2,000 hours minimum (1 year) | After doctoral degree completion | Must be completed post-graduation; required for licensure |
| Total Required | 4,000 hours (2 years) | A combination of pre and post-doctoral | Direct service, training, and approved supervisory time |
What Qualifies as Supervised Experience?
Your supervised hours must include direct client contact, psychological assessment, treatment planning, intervention delivery, and case consultation. The Mississippi Board requires documentation showing:
- Qualified Supervision: Your supervisor must hold an active, unrestricted psychology license in Mississippi or an equivalent jurisdiction
- Regular Oversight: Supervision sessions must occur at least weekly, with detailed documentation of cases discussed and clinical guidance provided
- Diverse Experience: You should gain exposure to varied populations, treatment modalities, and clinical settings
- Ethical Practice: All hours must be completed in settings that adhere to APA ethical guidelines and professional standards
Maintain detailed logs of your supervised hours, including dates, activities, client populations served, and supervisor signatures. This documentation becomes essential when you submit your licensing application.
EPPP Examination Requirements
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) serves as the standardized national licensing examination for psychologists. Mississippi requires passing scores before issuing licenses.
EPPP Exam Structure
The EPPP consists of 225 multiple-choice questions covering eight core content areas of psychology:
- Biological bases of behavior
- Cognitive-affective bases of behavior
- Social and cultural bases of behavior
- Growth and development
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Treatment, intervention, and prevention
- Research methods and statistics
- Ethical, legal, and professional issues
Preparing for the EPPP
Most candidates study 3-6 months before their examination date using:
- Commercial EPPP prep courses and practice exams
- Study groups with fellow doctoral candidates
- Review of core graduate textbooks across all eight content domains
- Practice questions targeting weak content areas
You must receive board approval before scheduling your EPPP examination date. The test is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Mississippi and nationwide. You'll receive your score immediately upon test completion.
Mississippi requires a minimum scaled score of 500 on the EPPP (on a scale of 200-800). If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the examination after a waiting period determined by the board.
Mississippi State Oral & Jurisprudence Examinations
After passing the EPPP, Mississippi requires two additional state-level examinations before granting permanent licensure. These exams assess your knowledge of state-specific regulations and your readiness for independent practice in Mississippi.
Jurisprudence Examination
The Mississippi Jurisprudence Exam consists of 20 open-book multiple-choice questions focused on state rules and regulations governing psychology practice. You'll receive a copy of the exam materials when you schedule your oral examination.
- Format: 20 multiple-choice questions (open book)
- Content: Mississippi psychology laws, board rules, and professional regulations
- Passing Score: 75% or higher required
- Study Materials: Mississippi Board of Psychology Rules and Regulations provided
State Oral Examination
The oral examination consists of a face-to-face evaluation conducted by a panel of three licensed psychologists, with one board member serving as chair. The examination explores your clinical judgment, ethical reasoning, and knowledge of professional standards.
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Panel Composition | Three licensed psychologists (one board member chairs) |
| Duration | 45 minutes to 1 hour |
| Content | Practice-based clinical scenarios, professional ethics, and jurisprudence questions |
| Scoring | Pass/Fail determination |
| Results Notification | Within 10 business days after board ratification |
| Fee | $150 (combined oral and jurisprudence exam fee) |
| Frequency | Administered multiple times annually at various Mississippi locations |
Retake Policy
If you don't pass either examination on your first attempt, you may retake it once. Candidates who fail either the EPPP or state examinations twice must wait two years before reapplying and making another licensing attempt. This waiting period allows time for additional supervised practice and preparation.
Once you successfully pass both the jurisprudence and oral examinations, along with meeting all other requirements, the Mississippi Board of Psychology will mail your official license within 10 business days.
Mississippi Psychology Licensing Application Process
Once you've completed your doctoral degree, accumulated your supervised hours, and passed all three examinations (EPPP, jurisprudence, and oral), you're ready to apply for full licensure through the Mississippi State Board of Psychology.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
| Step | Action Required | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Complete Education | Doctoral degree conferral | Years 1-7 | Official transcripts required from an accredited institution |
| 2. Finish Pre-Doctoral Hours | 2,000+ internship hours | During Years 5-7 | Documented through an internship completion certificate |
| 3. Complete Post-Doctoral Experience | 2,000 post-doctoral hours | Year 8-9 | Supervisor verification forms required |
| 4. Pass EPPP | Score 500+ on the examination | During Year 8-9 | Valid for 3 years from the date passed |
| 5. Pass State Examinations | Jurisprudence (75%+) and Oral (Pass) | After EPPP passage | Combined $150 fee; results within 10 days |
| 6. Submit Licensure Application | Complete application packet | Year 9-10 | Includes fees, transcripts, hour logs, and references |
| 7. Background Check | Criminal background screening | During application | The board reviews all criminal history disclosures |
| 8. Board Review | Application evaluation | 2-4 months | The board may request additional documentation |
| 9. Receive License | Begin professional practice | Upon approval | License renewable annually |
Required Application Documents
Your application packet to the Mississippi State Board of Psychology must include:
- Completed the application form with all sections filled accurately
- Official transcripts from all graduate institutions attended
- Documentation of 4,000 supervised hours with supervisor verification
- Official EPPP score report
- Proof of passing jurisprudence and oral examinations
- Professional references from supervisors and colleagues (typically 3-5 required)
- Verification of any prior licenses held in other jurisdictions
- Application fee (check the current fee schedule with the board)
- Criminal background check results
- Passport-style photograph
The board reviews applications monthly. Processing typically takes 2-4 months once your complete application is received. During this time, the board may request additional documentation or clarification on any aspect of your training.
Mississippi Psychologist Salary & Career Outlook
Psychology careers in Mississippi offer meaningful work and steady income, though salaries typically run lower than the national average. Understanding both state-specific and national compensation helps you plan financially throughout your education and early career stages.
National vs. Mississippi Salary Comparison
It's important to distinguish between national salary data and Mississippi-specific earnings when planning your career. Mississippi psychologists generally earn less than the national median due to the state's lower cost of living and regional economic factors.
| Salary Metric | National (2024 BLS) | Mississippi Estimates |
|---|---|---|
| Median Annual Salary | $96,100 | $67,000-$83,000 |
| Entry-Level (10th Percentile) | $48,820 | $57,000-$65,000 |
| Experienced (75th Percentile) | $129,020 | $100,000-$115,000 |
| Top Earners (90th Percentile) | $168,870 | $130,000-$150,000 |
Note: Mississippi-specific data compiled from multiple salary aggregators, including ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, and Salary.com. Individual earnings vary significantly by practice setting, specialization, experience level, and geographic location within the state.
Factors Influencing Mississippi Psychologist Salaries
Practice Setting: Private practitioners in Mississippi's metro areas (Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven) typically earn more than those in community mental health centers or rural settings. However, rural areas may offer loan repayment programs and other incentives to attract mental health professionals.
Specialization: Neuropsychologists, forensic psychologists, and industrial-organizational psychologists command higher salaries than generalist clinicians. Board certification in specialized areas enhances earning potential across all settings.
Geographic Location Within State: Psychologists in the Jackson metropolitan area, the Gulf Coast region (Gulfport-Biloxi), and northern Mississippi (Tupelo, Southaven) generally earn 10-20% more than those in rural counties. However, Mississippi's lower cost of living compared to national averages means salaries stretch further.
Years of Experience: Salary growth accelerates significantly around year five of independent practice. Establishing a strong referral network, gaining specialized expertise, and building a reputation all contribute to higher compensation over time.
Employment Outlook
The Mississippi Department of Employment Security projects 17.2% job growth for psychology positions through 2030, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. This growth reflects increasing public awareness of mental health issues, greater insurance coverage for psychological services, and ongoing demand for treatment of substance abuse, behavioral disorders, and trauma.
Mississippi faces a significant shortage of mental health providers, particularly in rural areas. This creates strong demand for licensed psychologists willing to serve underserved communities. The state offers various incentives, including student loan repayment programs for professionals who commit to practicing in designated shortage areas.
Employment opportunities exist across diverse setting,s including:
- Private practice (solo or group)
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Community mental health centers
- Schools and educational institutions
- Correctional facilities
- Veterans Affairs facilities
- University counseling centers
- Corporate and organizational consulting
License Renewal & Continuing Education Requirements
Maintaining your Mississippi psychology license requires annual renewal, ongoing professional development, and compliance with continuing education mandates. The state board carefully monitors licensure status to ensure all practicing psychologists remain current with evolving standards.
Annual Renewal Requirements
Mississippi psychology licenses must be renewed annually by June 30th. The board begins sending renewal notices in April of each year. You can complete your renewal online through your Mississippi Board of Psychology licensee profile.
- Renewal Deadline: June 30th annually
- Renewal Period: April 1 - June 30
- Renewal Method: Online through the board licensee portal
- Annual Fee: Up to $700 (determined by board, subject to change)
- Late Renewal: Additional late fees apply if renewed after June 30
Continuing Education (CE) Requirements
Mississippi requires licensed psychologists to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain active licensure status. This biennial requirement ensures psychologists stay current with emerging research, evolving best practices, and ethical standards.
| CE Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Hours Required | 20 hours every 2 years |
| Ethics/Legal Requirement | A minimum of 2 hours must cover professional ethics or legal issues in psychological services |
| Online/Distance Learning | All 20 hours may be completed through online or distance learning formats |
| Approved Providers | APA-approved providers or equivalent accredited organizations |
| Reporting Method | Submit CE hours through the online licensee profile during the renewal period |
| Documentation | Maintain certificates of completion for board audits |
The board may conduct random audits of reported continuing education hours. Always retain certificates of completion for all CE activities as verification of compliance.
Lapsed License Provisions
If you fail to renew your license by June 30th, your license will lapse. Mississippi law provides specific procedures for reinstating lapsed licenses depending on how long the lapse has continued:
- Lapsed Less Than 2 Years: You may renew your lapsed license by paying all renewal fees in arrears. No additional requirements beyond payment of back fees and current renewal.
- Lapsed More Than 2 Years: You must reapply for licensure under current board regulations. This may require submitting a new application, paying application fees, providing updated documentation, and potentially retaking examinations if required under current rules.
- Practice Restrictions: It's illegal to practice psychology or represent yourself as a psychologist while your license is lapsed. Violations constitute a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $300 and/or imprisonment up to 60 days.
Important: Keep your license current to avoid the complex and costly process of reapplication. If you plan to take an extended leave from practice, consider maintaining your license in non-practicing status if your circumstances allow.
PSYPACT: Interstate Practice & Telepsychology
Effective April 8, 2024, Mississippi became a full participating member of the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT). This interstate agreement facilitates telepsychology services and temporary in-person practice across state boundaries for licensed psychologists.
PSYPACT offers two distinct practice pathways:
Telepsychology Practice (APIT): Mississippi-licensed psychologists can obtain an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) through the PSYPACT Commission. This requires first obtaining an E-Passport certificate from ASPPB. With an active APIT, you can provide telepsychology services to clients physically located in any other PSYPACT participating state without obtaining additional state licenses.
Temporary In-Person Practice (TAP): You can obtain a Temporary Authorization to Practice (TAP) allowing up to 30 days per year of face-to-face psychological services in other PSYPACT states. This requires first obtaining an Interjurisdictional Practice Certificate (IPC) from ASPPB.
Applications for PSYPACT authority are submitted directly to the PSYPACT Commission, not to state boards. As of April 2024, 43 states participate in PSYPACT, dramatically expanding practice opportunities for licensed psychologists while maintaining consumer protection through shared regulatory standards.
Important: Even with PSYPACT authority, you must comply with the laws and regulations of each state where your clients are located during service delivery. PSYPACT clarifies which states' laws apply, but doesn't exempt you from understanding different jurisdictions' requirements for mandatory reporting, confidentiality, recordkeeping, and professional conduct.
For detailed PSYPACT information, application procedures, and participating states, visit psypact.gov or contact [email protected].
Key Takeaways: Becoming a Mississippi Psychologist
- Doctoral Education Required: You must complete a Ph.D. or Psy.D. from an accredited psychology program (5-7 years beyond a bachelor's degree)
- 4,000 Supervised Hours: Complete 2,000 pre-doctoral and 2,000 post-doctoral supervised clinical experience hours
- Three Examinations Required: Pass the EPPP (score 500+), Mississippi Jurisprudence Exam (75%+), and state oral examination
- Salary Considerations: Mississippi psychologists earn $67,000-$83,000 (lower than the national $96,100 median), but benefit from a lower cost of living
- Strong Career Outlook: Mississippi projects 17.2% job growth through 2030, with significant provider shortages creating demand
- Alternative Path Available: School psychologists can pursue NASP-approved specialist programs instead of full doctorates
- Total Timeline: Plan for 8-10 years from bachelor's degree to full licensure
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Psychologist in Mississippi
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Mississippi?
The complete timeline typically spans 8-10 years after earning your bachelor's degree. This includes 4-6 years for doctoral education, 1 year of pre-doctoral internship (often during your final doctoral year), 1 year of post-doctoral supervised experience, and time to pass three examinations (EPPP, state jurisprudence exam, and state oral examination) before you can receive full licensure. Some students complete the process faster if they enter with a master's degree or finish coursework efficiently.
Can I practice psychology in Mississippi with only a master's degree?
No, Mississippi requires a doctoral degree for independent psychology licensure. However, master's-level professionals can work as licensed professional counselors, clinical social workers, or marriage and family therapists in Mississippi, which offer rewarding mental health careers with shorter educational timelines. Master's-level psychologists can also work under supervision in various clinical settings while pursuing their doctorate.
What's the difference between a Ph.D. and Psy.D. in psychology?
A Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) emphasizes research training alongside clinical practice and typically includes a dissertation based on original research. Programs often provide funding through teaching or research assistantships. A Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology) focuses primarily on clinical practice skills with less emphasis on research methodology. Psy.D. programs usually require students to pay tuition but offer more intensive hands-on clinical training. Both degrees fully qualify you for Mississippi psychology licensure.
What are the Mississippi state examinations for psychologists?
After passing the EPPP, you must pass two Mississippi-specific examinations: the Jurisprudence Exam (20 open-book multiple-choice questions requiring 75% to pass) and the State Oral Examination (45-60 minute evaluation by a three-psychologist panel using pass/fail scoring). The oral exam covers practice-based clinical scenarios, professional ethics, and state regulations. The combined fee for both state examinations is $150, and you'll receive results within 10 business days.
How much do psychologists earn in Mississippi compared to the national average?
Mississippi psychologists typically earn 20-30% below the national median due to the state's lower cost of living and regional economic factors. While the national median for clinical and counseling psychologists is $96,100 (2024 BLS data), Mississippi psychologists generally earn between $67,000-$83,000, depending on practice setting, specialization, and geographic location within the state. However, Mississippi's significantly lower cost of living means these salaries provide comfortable living standards, particularly outside major metropolitan areas.
What are Mississippi's continuing education requirements for psychologists?
Mississippi requires 20 hours of continuing education every two years for license renewal. At a minimum, 2 of those 20 hours must focus on professional ethics or legal issues in psychological services. All 20 hours may be completed through online or distance learning formats from APA-approved providers. You report your CE hours through the online licensee portal during the annual renewal period (April 1 - June 30). The board may audit CE records, so maintain certificates of completion for all activities.
What happens if my Mississippi psychology license lapses?
If you fail to renew by June 30th, your license lapses. Licenses lapsed for less than 2 years can be renewed by paying all fees in arrears. However, if your license remains lapsed for more than 2 years, you must reapply for licensure under current board regulations, which may include new application fees, updated documentation, and potentially retaking examinations. Practicing with a lapsed license is illegal and constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $300 and/or imprisonment up to 60 days.
Can I provide telepsychology services to clients in other states?
Yes, through PSYPACT. Mississippi joined the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact on April 8, 2024. You can obtain an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) through the PSYPACT Commission after first obtaining an E.Passport from ASPPB. This allows you to provide telepsychology services to clients in any of the 43 PSYPACT participating states without obtaining additional licenses. Applications are submitted directly to PSYPACT, not state boards. You must comply with each state's laws where your clients are located.
What specializations can I pursue as a licensed psychologist in Mississippi?
After obtaining your license, you can pursue additional training and board certification in numerous specialties, including clinical neuropsychology, forensic psychology, child and adolescent psychology, health psychology, geropsychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school psychology, and rehabilitation psychology. The American Board of Professional Psychology offers certification in 15+ specialty areas. Specialized training typically involves 1-2 years of post-doctoral fellowship training and passing specialty examinations.
Does Mississippi offer any incentives for psychologists to practice in underserved areas?
Yes, Mississippi faces significant mental health provider shortages, particularly in rural areas. The state offers various incentives, including student loan repayment programs for professionals who commit to practicing in designated shortage areas. These programs can help offset educational debt in exchange for service commitments. Contact the Mississippi Primary Health Care Association or the State Department of Health for current program availability, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for loan repayment and rural practice incentives.
Additional Resources for Mississippi Psychologists
For official information and application materials, visit the Mississippi State Board of Psychology. For EPPP examination information and registration, visit the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).
Explore related mental health career pathways in Mississippi:
- Mississippi Professional Counselor Licensing
- Mississippi Social Work Licensing Requirements
- Mississippi Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
Ready to Start Your Mississippi Psychology Career?
Becoming a licensed psychologist requires significant dedication, but the rewards include a meaningful career helping others, professional autonomy, and steady earning potential. Start by researching accredited doctoral programs that match your clinical interests and career goals. Consider visiting the Mississippi psychology degree programs page to explore your educational options and connect with universities offering psychology training in the state.
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 are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
